bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining Telbivudine with Tenofovir in hepatitis B virus related acute on chronic liver failure reduce the risk of renal impairment.
Authors: Manik Abul Hayat , Malakar Debraj , Resma Tania Islam , Ananya Kaniz Fatema , Mamun Shameem Al , Rahman Salimur
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major health problem because of its worldwide distribution and its potential adverse sequel, including acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Short term prognosis of patients with spontaneous severe acute exacerbation of CHB leading to ACLF- like presentation is extremely poor, with mortality ranging from 30% to 70%. Therefore, early and rapid reduction of HBV DNA is the essence of therapy in ACLF-B.
Methods: Patients with spontaneous reactivation of HBV [(ALT >5 × upper limit of normal or >2 × baseline) and HBV DNA >20,000 IU/ml] were randomized to Tenofovir mono therapy (300 mg/day) or Tenofovir plus Telbivudine (600 mg/day) dual therapy along with standard medical treatment. Clinical and biochemical parameters were evaluated at baseline, 1 week, 4 weeks and at 3 months. Virological evaluation was done at baseline and at 3 months. Primary end point was reduction of HBV DNA. Secondary end point was reduction of liver related complication, therapy related adverse effects and survival at 3 months.
Results: 27 patients were enrolled and 15 of them received mono therapy with Tenofovir and 12 patients received dual therapy (Tenofovir plus Telbivudine). Baseline parameters in two groups had no significant difference. Both groups significantly improve s. bilirubin, ALT, INR, CTP score and MELD score. Only MELD score showed significant improvement in patient with dual therapy at 3 months in comparison of mono therapy. 11 patient on Tenofovir mono therapy (n=15) showed undetected HBV DNA (91.7%) at 3 month and one patient had detectable HBV DNA (<2,000 IU/ml). 10 patients on dual therapy (n=12) had undetectable HBV DNA (100%). Patients receiving dual therapy showed significant improvement in AKI on follow up compared to those on Tenofovir mono therapy. Among 5 deaths, 3 had received mono therapy with Tenofovir and 2 had received dual therapy. Predictors of mortality were high S. bilirubin (25.8±7.8), HBV DNA (5.18±1.17 log10 IU/ml), MELD score (33.0±4.2) and CTP score (12.2±0.8).
Conclusion: In spontaneous reactivation of hepatitis B presenting as acute on chronic liver failure, combination of Telbivudine plus Tenofovir is potentially safer with less risk of Tenofovir related nephrotoxicity and hence improved outcomes.
Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2022; 10 (1): 48-51
UPAYA MENINGKATKAN HASIL PEMBELAJARAN LOMPAT JAUH MELALUI PENDEKATAN BERMAIN LOMPAT KANGURU PADA SISWA KELAS V SD NEGERI 30 CAKRANEGARA
Authors: Syafrudin Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Pelaksanaan pembelajaran lompat jauh pada siswa kelas V SDN 30 Cakranegara Kota Mataram kurang memuaskan bagi guru penjasorkes, hal yang didapatkan siswa pada tes evaluasi akhir pembelajaran masih banyak siswa yang nilainya belum memenuhi standar kriteria ketuntasan minimal (KKM) yang telah ditetapkan. Sedangkan tujuan diadakan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengefektifitaskan pembelajaran dengan cara pendekatan bermain lompat kanguru atau mengevaluasikan berbagai macam permainan kedalam pembelajaran.      Berdasarkan permasalahan diatas maka peneliti menyimpulkan rumusan permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh penelitian yaitu “Apakah melalui oendekatan permainan lompat kanguru sebagai pembelajran dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar lompat jauh pada siswa kelas V SDN 30 Cakranegara tahun Pelajaran 2019/2020. Lompat jauh melalui pendekatan lompat kanguru “longu” merupakan salah satu alternative pembelajaran lompat jauh di Sekolah Dasar. Namun kenyataannya dalam proses pembelajaran belum terlaksana secara optimal, metode yang digunakan peneliti adalah penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK). Hasil peneltian yang menggunakan 2 siklus dan 4 pertemuan menunjukan di siklus I nilai rata-rata akhir kelas 71,9 dengan nilai persentase ketuntasan 76% nilainya masih kurang memuaskan. Maka dilanjutkan di siklus II nilai rata-rata akhir kelas 75,04 dengan nilai persentase 95,2% nilai yang dihasilkan sesuai dengan yang diinginkan. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menggunakan data pengamatan dilapangan dan kuesioner yang diperoleh dari evaluasi. Berdasarkan penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa melalui pendekatan bermain lompat kanguru pada materi lompat jauh dengan menggunakan media botol aqua dan pralon sebagai sarana dan prasarana pembelajaran mengalami peningkatan dalam hasil belajar siswa kelas V SDN 30 Cakranegara tahun pelajaran 2019/2020 Kota Mataram. Saran dari peneliti meliputi beberapa hal yaitu: diharapkan bagi guru penjasorkes di Sekolah Dasar untuk menggunakan Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) dalam pembelajaran, guru dapat memvariasikan berbagai macam bentuk permainan dalam pembelajaran, dan media botol aqua pralon dan dapat digunakan untuk mengatasi kekurangan alat peraga dalam pembelajaran lompat jauh.Kata Kunci ; Lompat Jauh, Permainan Lompat Kanguru, Pembelajaran.
Clinical Grading System, Surgical Outcomes and Prognostic Analysis of Cranial Base Chordomas
Authors: Wang Benlin , Tian Fengxuan , Tong Xiaoguang
Published: April 2022

Objective : Cranial base chordomas are rare, but their treatment is challenging. Tumor recurrence is still common despite improvements in microsurgical techniques and postoperative radiotherapy. We retrospectively analyzed the course of treatment, overall survival, and recurrence/progression of chordomas over the past 10 years.Methods : We retrospectively reviewed 50 patients who underwent surgery at Tianjin Huanhu Hospital between 2010 and 2020 and were pathologically diagnosed with chordomas. Tumor resection was performed within the maximum safe range in all patients; the extent of resection was evaluated by imaging; and the incidence of complications, recurrence or progression, and overall survival were assessed.Results : Fifty patients were divided into the low-risk group (LRG) and high-risk group (HRG) based on the cranial chordoma grading system (CCGS). The Karnofsky Performance Scale scores and gross total resection rate of the LRG were significantly higher than those of the HRG (p<0.05). The incidence of complications and mortality in the LRG were lower than those of HRG. The analysis of cumulative survival and cumulative recurrence free survival/progression free survival (RFS/PFS) showed no statistical differences in the extent of resection for survival, recurrence, or progression. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that Ki-67 was significantly associated with tumor recurrence and was an independent hazard factor (p=0.02).Conclusion : The CCGS can help neurosurgeons anticipate surgical outcomes. Pathological results are important in evaluating the possibility of tumor recurrence, and postoperative radiotherapy improves overall survival and RFS/PFS.
Caracterización de electrónica impresa y recubrimientos por tomografía de coherencia óptica
Authors: Sallese Marcelo , Tabla Pablo , Morel Eneas , Mosquera Ortega Mónica , Fossati Julia , Torga Jorge
Published: April 2022

La Fundación Gutenberg, a través del Instituto Argentino de Artes Gráficas, y el Grupo de Fotónica Aplicada de la Facultad Regional Delta, de la Universidad Tecnológica Nacional, se asociaron para trabajar en conjunto en el desarrollo de una nueva técnica óptica para ser aplicada en la caracterización de materiales impresos. En este marco, se llevó adelante un proyecto de desarrollo tecnológico y social (PDTS) que se orientó a la aplicación de la tomografía de coherencia óptica, para la caracterización de tintas y recubrimientos, sobre diferentes sustratos flexibles, principalmente polímeros tipo PET y cartulina, de productos impresos mediante flexografía. Se presentan a continuación la introducción al tema y la motivación para generar este trabajo colaborativo, como así también la descripción de la técnica utilizada y los resultados obtenidos hasta el momento. Finalmente, se presentan las conclusiones con las perspectivas del desarrollo propuesto y los trabajos a futuro.
Using ENSO conditions to optimize rice yield for Nepal’s Terai
Authors: Jha PK , Athanasiadis P , Gualdi S , Trabucco A , Mereu V , Shelia V , Hoogenboom G
Published: April 2022

The direct application of forecasts from seasonal prediction systems (SPSs) in agriculture is limited by their skill, and SPSs are more skilled at El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) prediction than precipitation prediction. An alternative to the direct application of forecasts from SPSs could be to link the forecast of ENSO conditions with dynamic crop models to evaluate alternate crop management options prior to the start of the actual planting. Although potential benefits of this approach have been tested in many areas of the world, so far limited evidence exists regarding its application in Nepal’s Terai region. The overall goal of this study was to determine the potential relationship between ENSO and summer monsoon precipitation over Nepal’s Terai and ascertain SPSs’ skill in predicting ENSO. This analysis included disentangling the relative contribution of precipitation to interannual variability in rice yield from other factors using a cropping system model, namely, the Crop Environment Resource Synthesis-Rice (CSM-CERES-Rice). The crop model was also employed to explore options for increasing rice yield and minimizing risk by adjusting crop management. This study found that precipitation was the main variable affecting interannual variability in rice yield, that SPSs are good at predicting ENSO, and that the ENSO signal can be used to predict seasonal precipitation anomalies in the study area in all years except ENSO neutral years. Prior knowledge of seasonal precipitation anomalies can then be used to optimize rice yield using a crop model, and ultimately to assist farmers with decision making.
Nilai Pendidikan Kerakter dalam Perpsektif Al-qur’an (Kajian Q.S Luqman Ayat 12-19)
Authors: Natsir Muh , Sudika Aryandi , Mukhsin Mukhsin
Published: April 2022

Character education is a habit. The habit of doing good, habituation of respecting others, habituation of being honest, habituation not to be lazy, habituation of respecting time, and so on. All of that must be trained seriously and proportionately in order to achieve the ideal form and strength. In the Al-Qur ‟an Surat Luqman verses 12-19 there is character education that can be used as an example for parents and educators on how to instill good character in childrenThis research is a library research or library research. The data is obtained through literature sources (Libarary Research), namely literature review through literature. The approach used in analyzing this research used the semantic approach of Toshihiko Izutsu, namely word relational analysis and historical analysis. Based on the research conducted, it was found that there are conclusions regarding the character values contained in the Al-Qur ‟an Surat Luqman verses 12-19, namely: First, education of faith; second, worship education; third, moral education in the family; fourth, moral education in the environment; and lastly, personality education that every human being must have.Keyword: Character Education, Surah Luqman
Perilaku Merokok pada Wanita pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19: Study Kasus di Kota Bandar Lampung
Authors: Pratama Randy Yusuf
Published: April 2022

Rokok merupakan faktor risiko penyakit yang memberikan kontribusi paling besar di banding faktor risiko lainnya (komplikasi kehamilan, gangguan kesuburan, gangguan menstruasi). Perokok aktif perempuan sebenarnya faham resiko dari perilaku merokoknya tersebut. Merokok bagi seorang perempuan yaitu merokok dapat mengurangi sekresi estrogen yang diduga bertanggung jawab atas gangguan menstruasi termasuk timbulnya rasa nyeri. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah diketahui informasi lebih dalam perilaku merokok di masa pandemi covid 19 pada wanita di Kota Bandar Lampung tahun 2020. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan study kasus informan dalam penelitian ini adalah wanita perokok sebanyak 5 informan. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui wawancara mendalam, teknik analisis data dilakukan dengan trianggulasi sumber. Hasil penelitian Perceived Susceptibility, perilaku merokok pada wanita dipengaruhi oleh keluarga dan lingkungan pergaulan. Perceived Severity, informan mengabaikan bahaya yang dirasakan terhadap pesan atau informasi yang telah beredar di lingkungan. Perceived Benefit, sudah menjadi kebiasaan seperti laki-laki, merasa lebih santai dan nikmat jika merokok pada saat ada masalah atau stres. Perceived Barrier, tidak pernah dihiraukan bahayanya oleh informan karena sudah menjadi kebisaan atau budaya merokok dilingkungan sekitar, Cues to Action Informan belum menemukan cara untuk berhenti merokok, dengan adanya covid 19 kebiasaan merokok makin sulit untuk berhenti dengan alasan mereka jenuh tidak bisa bepergian. Saran pada penelitian ini hendaknya wanita yang merokok sebaiknya membentuk kesadaran dalam diri dengan cara memiliki niat dan kemauan diri (komitmen) yang kuat disertai dengan turut serta dalam program berhenti merokok agar dapat secara perlahan mengurangi kebiasaan merokoknya, karena merokok berbahaya bagi kesehatan apalagi bagi kaum perempuan

Kata Kunci: Perilaku Merokok Wanita, Covid—19, Perilaku Merokok
Analysis of Antenna Types on the Effect of GSM Module Signals as Remote Vehicle Safety
Authors: Martawati Mira Esculenta , Rohman Fatkhur , Fachrudin Arif R , Bhakt Muhammad Ibnan Utama
Published: April 2022

The National Police revealed that in 2018 there were 165,918 cases of crime in Indonesia, with 19,380 cases of theft due to the lack of additional safety in vehicles. Thus, remote vehicle safety is needed to turn off the vehicle in the event of an act of theft. However, this remote security is still difficult to work if the signal quality from the BTS is weak. Because it needs a signal amplifier in the GSM module. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effect of the GSM module signal on the injector response time as an android-based long-distance vehicle safety. The signal booster is useful so that this long-distance vehicle safety can work properly when the signal quality from the BTS is weak. The research method used is the two-way Anova method. There are two independent variables, namely: (1) BTS signal quality; (2) the antenna material is copper and aluminum. The dependent variable uses the injector response time. The test results show that in testing the BTS signal quality, copper antennas have the fastest response time compared to aluminum antennas. -60 dBm is 4.402 second and -113 dBm is 5.472 second. The conclusion of this study is that copper antennas respond faster than aluminum antennas, because copper has a higher conductivity than aluminum.

Keywords: Vechicle Safety, GSM Module, Remote Vehicle Safety
Pengaruh Pernikahan Sedarah Terhadap Keturunan (Studi Analisis Tafsir Sains Dalam Qs. An-Nisa’: 23)
Authors: Asmuni Asmuni
Published: April 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui mengapa dalam al-Qur‟an sampai mengharamkan pernikahan itu. Kemudian peneliti mengaitkan dengan ilmu sains tentang genetika (keturunan), bagaimana keturunan yang dihasilkan dari pernikahan tersebut. Sehingga penulis mengambil judul “Pengaruh Pernikahan Sedarah Terhadap Keturunan (Studi Analisis Tafsir Sains Dalam QS. An-Nisa’: 23). Adapun jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan tafsir „ilmiy. Yaitu memahami al-Qur‟an melalui pendekatan sainsmodern. Sumber data diperoleh dari sumber data primer dan sumber data sekunder. Data penelitian yang terkumpul kemudian dianalisis dengan pendekatan ilmu sains. Dari penelitian yang dilakukan diperoleh hasil bahwa dalam pernikahan diharapkan bisa memperluas hubungan kekeluargaan, jadi tidak ada urgensinya apabila menikahi kerabat dekat sendiri. Dalam hubungan antara suami istri pastilah terjadi perselisihan di antara keduanya. Dengan demikian menikahi mereka akan menyebabkan pemutusan kerabat, sehingga dapat menjadikan kekerasan hati diantara mereka. Maka, hal-hal yang menyebabkan keharaman juga dihukumi haram. Perkawinan yang dilakukan antar keluarga cenderung menghasilkan keturunan yang abnormal. Bahkan, hampir selalu terjadi peningkatan kematian atau penyakit pada keturunan hasil perkawinan antar keluarga. Seseorang yang mempunyai hubungan darah akan lebih mungkin memberikan gen yang sama dibandingkan dengan orang-orang yang tidak mempunyai hubungan darah. Inbreeding (perkawinan keluarga) akan mengubah frekuensi gen resesif dalam populasi, sehingga secara relatif lebih banyak dilahirkan individu-individu homozigot abnormal

Kata Kunci: Pernikahan sedarah, Keturunan, Tafsir Sains, Hukum Islam
A Review of Legislation and Policies in UK and Nigeria to Prevent Police Misconduct
Authors: Sakib S M Nazmuz
Published: April 2022

The police in Nigeria are brutal and atrocious in their practices regarding the general public and believes inside the hitting and ask theory. there are various events of misuse of powers through the Nigerian police, therefore to find out the reasons for such unbridle misuse of force with the aid of police, i am aiming to review rules and legal guidelines of Nigeria to peer which quantity this law put a bridle at the colorable use of strength through the Nigerian police and held them responsible. via a comparative analysis of united kingdom legal guidelines and regulations regarding police duty, i will make a comparative method relevant in Nigeria for duty of police actions. the reason for this research is to do a comparative evaluation of the legal guidelines of the UK and Nigeria and to signify the implementation of points that can be implemented inside the Nigerian police gadget.
Japan: Corporate Governance and Gradual Transformation
Authors: Nottage Luke , Kozuka Souichirou
Published: April 2022

This is the manuscript version of the Japan section in "Principles of Contemporary Corporate Governance" (4th ed 2018) by Jean Jacques du Plessis, Anil Hargovan and Jason Harris. It is reproduced here with permission of CUP, as we are rewriting a much abridged section for the forthcoming 5th ed. In this manuscript, readers can find more information on historical transformations in Japanese corporate law and practice (including the post-WW2 rise and partial fall of "lifelong employment", cross-shareholdings and key supplier relationships, and "main banks"), Japan's multiple corporate forms (increasingly diversifying away from German law roots), and "gradual transformation" also around corporate boards.
Ajuste psicológico en cuidadores familiares de adolescentes: un análisis longitudinal durante el confinamiento por la COVID-19 en España
Authors: Lacomba Trejo Laura , Valero Moreno Selene , De la Barrera Usue , Pérez Marín Marián , Montoya Castilla Inmaculada
Published: April 2022

Debido al confinamiento por la COVID-19, las familias españolas tuvieron que adaptarse a nuevas situaciones y rutinas. El objetivo de esta investigación ha sido conocer qué variables explicaban el ajuste psicológico de cuidadores familiares de adolescentes ante la COVID-19, mediante un estudio longitudinal (evaluando primero a las 2-3 semanas del inicio del estado de alarma y después tras 8 semanas de su instauración en España). Participaron 32 progenitores de adolescentes. Tras aceptar participar, se evaluó: clima familiar, satisfacción vital, regulación emocional, resiliencia y psicopatología. Se realizaron modelos de análisis comparativo cualitativo de conjuntos difusos (fsQCA). Nuestros datos reflejan que la combinación de psicopatología previa y estrategias de regulación emocional deficientes explicaron la clínica de somatización; y la resiliencia, las habilidades emocionales y el clima familiar positivo, predijeron la satisfacción con la vida. Se señala la importancia de atender a los factores de riesgo y protección para el ajuste de los progenitores de los adolescentes.
External competition flattens the Phillips Curve
Authors: Camba Crespo Alfonso , García Solanes José , Torrejón Flores Fernando
Published: April 2022

In this paper we elaborate an open economy Phillips curve (OEPC) with micro-founded analysis, in which external competition significantly impacts the domestic inflation rate. This influence is transmitted through two channels: a) the gap between the current and potential growth of imports, and b) real exchange-rate misalignment. We estimate this OEPC by applying two econometric techniques, panel regressions and PVAR accompanied by impulse/response analysis. A sample of 15 advanced economies is used with data for the period 1994-2017. The results from both methodologies endorse the validity of this theoretical relationship and suggest that international competition reduces the pricing power of domestic firms, thereby curbing inflationary pressures. We also find that the slope of the OEPC has significantly declined in the years after the Great Recession.
Informalidad laboral en 13 ciudades áreas metropolitanas de Colombia (2019-2020)
Authors: Araujo Martinez Dalel Rocio , Segrera Castilla Michael Jair , Jiménez Castilla Tania Isabel
Published: April 2022

La informalidad laboral tiene un gran peso sobre la economía mundial y Colombia no es la excepción; históricamente el país se ha caracterizado por manejar altas tasas de informalidad relacionadas a su vez con variables indicadoras de pobreza. El propósito del documento es analizar este vínculo[1] en las 13 principales ciudades y áreas metropolitanas de Colombia, bajo el escenario COVID-19. Con este objetivo, se realizó un análisis de correlación simple y un modelo probit que mide el impacto de variables que componen el Índice de Pobreza Multidimensional (IPM) y variables sociodemográficas (edad y género), sobre la probabilidad de ser empleado informal. El estudio da como resultado que la variable que más impacta esta probabilidad es la pobreza monetaria. Finalmente, se describe la importancia de reducir la informalidad para avanzar en el cumplimiento de las metas nacionales relacionadas con la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible.

[1] El análisis de la informalidad laboral se realizó a nivel del jefe del hogar. El DANE considera jefe del hogar a la persona que, por su edad o por ser el principal sostén económico de la familia o por otras razones, es reconocida por sus miembros como tal. Puede ser hombre o mujer (2020, pág. 16).
Tremor in Writer’s Cramp Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Datta Abhigyan , Batra Nitya , Pandey Sanjay
Published: April 2022

Background: Tremor is one of the important motor phenotypes of dystonia, however, there is a lacuna in the literature regarding the occurrence of tremor in task-specific dystonia such as writer’s cramp (WC).

Aims: To delineate the demographic and clinical characteristics of tremor in WC patients.

Methods: This is a detailed chart review of 105 patients of WC who were classified as WC with dystonic action tremor (WCT+) (n = 39; 37.1%) and WC without tremor (WCT-) (n = 66; 53.9%).

Results: The mean age of patients was 41.10 ± 14.02 years in the WCT + group and 36.40 ± 14.66 years in the WCT-group. Males were more commonly affected (94.9% in WCT+ and 84.8% in WCT-). The mean duration of disease was significantly higher in WCT + as compared to WCT- (4.16 ± 4.48 years vs. 2.57 ± 2.81 years, p = 0.024). One-third of our patients (29.52%; n = 31) were students but, and the majority of them were classified as WCT- (80.64%, n = 25, p = 0.01). However, tremor was present in all the three doctors in our cohort with WC (p = 0.03). The motor overflow to the elbow and shoulder was significantly associated with the presence of tremor (46.1% of WCT + vs. 15.2% of WCT-patients, p = 0.001). Statistically, there were no significant differences between WCT+ and WCT-patients regarding the presence of complex WC (dystonia during other activities as well) (p = 0.976), mirror dystonia (p = 0.211), and finger flexion/extension abnormalities (p = 0.111).

Conclusion: The presence of tremor in WC was associated with a longer duration of disease and the presence of motor overflow.
Relevance, Impartiality, Welfare and Consent: Principles of an Animal-Centered Research Ethics
Authors: Mancini Clara , Nannoni Eleonora
Published: April 2022

The principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement (3Rs) were developed to address the ethical dilemma that arises from the use of animals, without their consent, in procedures that may harm them but that are deemed necessary to achieve a greater good. While aiming to protect animals, the 3Rs are underpinned by a process-centered ethical perspective which regards them as instruments in a scientific apparatus. This paper explores the applicability of an animal-centered ethics to animal research, whereby animals would be regarded as autonomous subjects, legitimate stakeholders in and contributors to a research process, with their own interests and capable of consenting and dissenting to their involvement. This perspective derives from the ethical stance taken within the field of Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI), where researchers acknowledge that an animal-centered approach is essential to ensuring the best research outcomes. We propose the ethical principles of relevance, impartiality, welfare and consent, and a scoring system to help researchers and delegated authorities assess the extent to which a research procedure aligns with them. This could help researchers determine when being involved in research is indeed in an animal's best interests, when a procedure could be adjusted to increase its ethical standard or when the use of non-animal methods is more urgently advisable. We argue that the proposed principles should complement the 3Rs within an integrated ethical framework that recognizes animals' autonomy, interests and role, for a more nuanced ethical approach and for supporting the best possible research for the benefit animal partakers and wider society.
Therapeutic Applications of Magnetotactic Bacteria and Magnetosomes: A Review Emphasizing on the Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kotakadi Sai Manogna , Borelli Deva Prasad Raju , Nannepaga John Sushma
Published: April 2022

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are aquatic microorganisms have the ability to biomineralize magnetosomes, which are membrane-enclosed magnetic nanoparticles. Magnetosomes are organized in a chain inside the MTB, allowing them to align with and traverse along the earth’s magnetic field. Magnetosomes have several potential applications for targeted cancer therapy when isolated from the MTB, including magnetic hyperthermia, localized medication delivery, and tumour monitoring. Magnetosomes features and properties for various applications outperform manufactured magnetic nanoparticles in several ways. Similarly, the entire MTB can be regarded as prospective agents for cancer treatment, thanks to their flagella’s ability to self-propel and the magnetosome chain’s ability to guide them. MTBs are conceptualized as nanobiots that can be guided and manipulated by external magnetic fields and are driven to hypoxic areas, such as tumor sites, while retaining the therapeutic and imaging characteristics of isolated magnetosomes. Furthermore, unlike most bacteria now being studied in clinical trials for cancer treatment, MTB are not pathogenic but might be modified to deliver and express certain cytotoxic chemicals. This review will assess the current and prospects of this burgeoning research field and the major obstacles that must be overcome before MTB can be successfully used in clinical treatments.
Hydrogenotrophs-Based Biological Biogas Upgrading Technologies
Authors: Antukh Tatsiana , Lee Ingyu , Joo Sunghee , Kim Hyunook
Published: April 2022

Biogas produced from anaerobic digestion consists of 55–65% methane and 35–45% carbon dioxide, with an additional 1–2% of other impurities. To utilize biogas as renewable energy, a process called biogas upgrading is required. Biogas upgrading is the separation of methane from carbon dioxide and other impurities, and is performed to increase CH4 content to more than 95%, allowing heat to be secured at the natural gas level. The profitability of existing biogas technologies strongly depends on operation and maintenance costs. Conventional biogas upgrading technologies have many issues, such as unstable high-purity methane generation and high energy consumption. However, hydrogenotrophs-based biological biogas upgrading offers an advantage of converting CO2 in biogas directly into CH4 without additional processes. Thus, biological upgrading through applying hydrogenotrophic methanogens for the biological conversion of CO2 and H2 to CH4 receives growing attention due to its simplicity and high technological potential. This review analyzes the recent advance of hydrogenotrophs-based biomethanation processes, addressing their potential impact on public acceptance of biogas plants for the promotion of biogas production.
Sexual Dimorphism Impact on the Ground Reaction Force Acting on the Mediolateral Direction During Level Walking: Hip Abductor Muscle Biomechanics and Its Correlation to GRF Moment Arm
Authors: Abd-Eltawab Amany E. , Ameer Mariam A. , Eladl Mohamed Ahmed , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Ebrahim Hasnaa Ali , Elsherbini Dalia Mahmoud Abdelmonem
Published: April 2022

The female pelvis morphology represents an evolved compensation between two opposing needs: a broad pelvis enough to deliver a sizeable brained offspring while remaining narrow enough to allow for effective bipedal gait. The precise expectation of hip abductor force generation is critical in anthropological studies and experimental practice of human stride mechanics. Hip implants and surgical procedures for hip anatomy reconstruction are based on the static single-leg stance paradigm. The current work investigated the impact of sexual dimorphism on the ground reaction force (GRF) acting on the mediolateral direction during level walking, emphasizing the difference in hip abductor muscle biomechanics and its correlation to ground reaction force moment arm, R. The ground reaction force in the mediolateral direction, hip abduction and adduction moments during the gait cycle and ground reaction force moment arm, R were measured. The current study concludes that the male individuals exhibit significantly higher mass-specific mediolateral ground reaction force during level walking. In contrast, hip abductor moments/kg body weight, medialization of the trochanter, R, and hip coronal were more significant in female individuals. We conclude that increased abductor moment and medialization of the greater trochanter will increase R, hip coronal and decrease abductor moment arm, r, in female individuals, affecting the effective mechanical advantage (EMA) of hip abductors in single-limb stance during level walking.
TMPRSS12 Functions in Meiosis and Spermiogenesis and Is Required for Male Fertility in Mice
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Zhou Xinli , Wan Danyang , Yu Li , Chen Xu , Yan Tong , Wu Zhu , Zheng Meimei , Zhu Feng , Zhu Hui
Published: April 2022

Serine proteases are involved in many physiological activities as initiators of proteolytic cascades, and some members have been reported to play roles in male reproduction. Transmembrane serine protease 12 (TMPRSS12) has been shown to regulate sperm motility and uterotubal junction migration in mice, but its role in the testis remains unknown. In this study, we verified that TMPRSS12 was expressed in the spermatocytes and spermatids of testis and the acrosome of sperm. Mice deficient in Tmprss12 exhibited male sterility. In meiosis, TMPRSS12 was demonstrated to regulate synapsis and double-strand break repair; spermatocytes of Tmprss12−/− mice underwent impaired meiosis and subsequent apoptosis, resulting in reduced sperm counts. During spermiogenesis, TMPRSS12 was found to function in the development of mitochondria; abnormal mitochondrial structure in Tmprss12−/− sperm led to reduced availability of ATP, impacting sperm motility. The differential protein expression profiles of testes in Tmprss12−/− and wild-type mice and further molecule identification revealed potential targets of TMPRSS12 related to meiosis and mitochondrial function. Besides, TMPRSS12 was also found to be involved in a series of sperm functions, including capacitation, acrosome reaction and sperm-egg interaction. These data imply that TMPRSS12 plays a role in multiple aspects of male reproduction.
Pharmacokinetics, Mass Balance, Excretion, and Tissue Distribution of Plasmalogen Precursor PPI-1011
Authors: Smith Tara , Knudsen Kaeli J. , Ritchie Shawn A.
Published: April 2022

PPI-1011 is a synthetic plasmalogen precursor in development as a treatment for multiple plasmalogen-deficiency disorders. Previous work has demonstrated the ability of PPI-1011 to augment plasmalogens and its effects in vitro and in vivo, however, the precise uptake and distribution across tissues in vivo has not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, mass balance, and excretion of [14C]PPI-1011 following a single oral administration at 100 mg/kg in Sprague-Dawley rats. Further tissue distribution was examined using quantitative whole-body autoradiography after both single and repeat daily doses at 100 mg/kg/day. Non-compartmental analysis showed that following a single dose, PPI-1011 exhibited peak levels between 6 and 12 h but also a long half-life with mean t1/2 of 40 h. Mass balance showed that over 50% of the compound-associated radioactivity was absorbed by the body, while approximately 40% was excreted in the feces, 2.5% in the urine, and 10% in expired air within the first 24 h. Quantitative whole-body autoradiography following a single dose showed uptake to nearly all tissues, with the greatest initial uptake in the intestines, liver, and adipose tissue, which decreased time-dependently throughout 168 h post-dose. Following 15 consecutive daily doses, uptake was significantly higher across the entire body at 24 h compared to single dose and remained high out to 96 h where 75% of the initially-absorbed compound-associated radioactivity was still present. The adipose tissue remained particularly high, suggesting a possible reserve of either plasmalogens or alkyl diacylglycerols that the body can pull from for plasmalogen biosynthesis. Uptake to the brain was also definitively confirmed, proving PPI-1011’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. In conclusion, our results suggest that oral administration of PPI-1011 results in high uptake across the body, and that repeated dosing over time represents a viable therapeutic strategy for treating plasmalogen deficiencies.
Human Dystrophin Dp71ab Enhances the Proliferation of Myoblasts Across Species But Not Human Nonmyoblast Cells
Authors: Farea Manal , Maeta Kazuhiro , Nishio Hisahide , Matsuo Masafumi
Published: April 2022

Dystrophin Dp71 is an isoform produced from the Dp71 promoter in intron 62 of the DMD gene, mutations in which cause Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Dp71 is involved in various cellular processes and comprises more than 10 isoforms produced by alternative splicing. Dp71ab, in which both exons 71 and 78 are deleted, has a hydrophobic C-terminus that is hydrophilic in Dp71. Therefore, Dp71ab is believed to have different roles from Dp71. Previously, we reported that Dp71ab enhanced the proliferation of human myoblasts. Here, we further characterized Dp71ab, focusing on the activation of cell proliferation. Dp71ab increased the proliferation of immortalized human myoblasts in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, Dp71 suppressed proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Consistent with these opposite effects, eGFP-tagged Dp71ab and mCherry-tagged Dp71 showed different cellular distributions, with Dp71ab mostly in the nucleus. Notably, human Dp71ab enhanced the proliferation of rat and mouse myoblasts. Despite these findings, human Dp71ab did not enhance the proliferation of human nonmyoblast cells, including rhabdomyosarcoma cells. We concluded that Dp71ab is a myoblast-specific proliferation enhancer. In further studies, Dp71ab will be employed for the expansion of myoblasts in clinical settings.
Role of Anions in the Synthesis and Crystal Growth of Selected Semiconductors
Authors: Matussin Shaidatul Najihah , Rahman Ashmalina , Khan Mohammad Mansoob
Published: April 2022

The ideal methods for the preparation of semiconductors should be reproducible and possess the ability to control the morphology of the particles with monodispersity yields. Apart from that, it is also crucial to synthesize a large quantity of desired materials with good control of size, shape, morphology, crystallinity, composition, and surface chemistry at a reasonably low production cost. Metal oxides and chalcogenides with various morphologies and crystal structures have been obtained using different anion metal precursors (and/or different sulfur sources for chalcogenides in particular) through typical synthesis methods. Generally, spherical particles are obtained as it is thermodynamically favorable. However, by changing the anion precursor salts, the morphology of a semiconductor is influenced. Therefore, precursors having different anions show some effects on the final forms of a semiconductor. This review compiled and discussed the effects of anions (NO3−, Cl−, SO42-, CH3COO−, CH(CH3)O−, etc.) and different sources of S2- on the morphology and crystal structure of selected metal oxides and chalcogenides respectively.
An Overview of Mucosa-Associated Protozoa: Challenges in Chemotherapy and Future Perspectives
Authors: Santos Helena Lucia Carneiro , Rebello Karina M.
Published: April 2022

Parasitic infections caused by protozoans that infect the mucosal surfaces are widely neglected worldwide. Collectively, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium spp. and Trichomonas vaginalis infect more than a billion people in the world, being a public health problem mainly in developing countries. However, the exact incidence and prevalence data depend on the population examined. These parasites ultimately cause pathologies that culminate in liver abscesses, malabsorption syndrome, vaginitis, and urethritis, respectively. Despite this, the antimicrobial agents currently used to treat these diseases are limited and often associated with adverse side effects and refractory cases due to the development of resistant parasites. The paucity of drug treatments, absence of vaccines and increasing problems of drug resistance are major concerns for their control and eradication. Herein, potential candidates are reviewed with the overall aim of determining the knowledge gaps and suggest future perspectives for research. This review focuses on this public health problem and focuses on the progress of drug repositioning as a potential strategy for the treatment of mucosal parasites.
The Restoration of Degraded Lands by Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Santini Nadia S. , Miquelajauregui Yosune
Published: April 2022

One of Earth's foremost ecological challenges is the degradation of land habitats. This degradation is often caused by deforestation and desertification resulting from the unsustainable management of natural resources. Land restoration seeks to reverse this trend and repair ecosystems to better health. Indigenous peoples and local communities have a key role in realizing long-term, sustainable land restoration. Local and indigenous communities often have intimate knowledge of the local ecosystems and an interest in preserving ecosystem services. Areas managed by indigenous peoples and local communities especially overlap with remaining intact ecosystems and suffer from less deforestation than unprotected areas. Here, we discuss how the knowledge and engagement of local communities can improve the management, implementation, and monitoring of habitat restoration. However, there are also challenges to land restoration, and scientists and policymakers that can align restoration outcomes with community benefits gained from environmental stewardship and knowledge, are more likely to achieve long-term sustainable restoration success.
Multimodal Imaging for Total Anomalous Systemic Venous Drainage Diagnosis and Preoperative Planning: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ding Mingyan , Zhang Huihui , Sun Dandan , Li Qiang , Jiao Ni , Zhu Fang
Published: April 2022

Total anomalous systemic venous drainage (TASVD) is a rare congenital heart malformation. Here, we report a case of a 40-year-old male patient who had a total anomalous systemic venous drainage. It was diagnosed as the TASVD for the first time through multimodal imaging combined Transthoracic (TTE), transesophageal (TEE) and three-dimensional (3D-TTE) echocardiography, contrast echocardiography and computed tomography angiography (CTA). We review 15 published reports on TASVD and summarize the ultrasonographic characteristics. After intracardiac repair through ectopic venous drainage in cardiac surgery, the patient's cyanosis symptoms were alleviated greatly. Echocardiography was the first-line examination for TASVD. Multimodal imaging combined TTE, TEE, 3D TEE, contrast echocardiography and CTA was necessary for confirmed diagnosis of TASVCD.
A Partially Randomized Patient Preference Trial to Assess the Quality of Life and Patency Rate After Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery-Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Design and Rationale of the MICS-CABG PRPP Trial
Authors: Gong Yichen , Wang Xiaoxiao , Li Nan , Fu Yuanhao , Zheng Hui , Zheng Ye , Zhan Siyan , Ling Yunpeng
Published: April 2022

Background

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery-coronary artery bypass grafting (MICS-CABG) has emerged as a safe alternative to standard cardiac surgery. However, treatment preferences can decrease the generalizability of RCT results to the clinical population (i.e., reduce external validity) and influence adherence to the treatment protocol and study outcomes (i.e., reduce internal validity). However, this has not yet been properly investigated in randomized trials with consideration of treatment preferences.

Study Design

In this study, patients with a preference will be allocated to treatment strategies accordingly, whereas only those patients without a distinct preference will be randomized. The randomized trial is a 248-patient controlled, randomized, investigator-blinded trial. It is designed to compare whether treatment with MICS-CABG is beneficial in comparison to CABG. This study is aimed to establish the superiority hypothesis for the physical component summary (PCS) accompanied by the non-inferiority hypothesis for overall graft patency. Patients with no treatment preference will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to one of the two treatment arms. The primary efficacy endpoints are the PCS score at 30 days after surgery and the overall patency rate of the grafts within 14 days after surgery. Secondary outcome measures include the PCS score and patency rate at different time points. Safety endpoints include major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, complications, bleeding, wound infection, death, etc.

Conclusions

This trial will address essential questions of the efficacy and safety of MICS-CABG. The study will also address the impact of patients' preferences on external validity and internal validity.
NEU1 Regulates Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism and Oxidative Stress Post-myocardial Infarction in Mice via the SIRT1/PGC-1 Alpha Axis
Authors: Guo Zhen , Fan Di , Liu Fang-Yuan , Ma Shu-Qing , An Peng , Yang Dan , Wang Min-Yu , Yang Zheng , Tang Qi-Zhu
Published: April 2022

Objective

Neuraminidase 1 (NEU1) participates in the response to multiple receptor signals and regulates various cellular metabolic behaviors. Importantly, it is closely related to the occurrence and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Because ischemic heart disease is often accompanied by impaired mitochondrial energy metabolism and oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functions and possible mechanisms of NEU1 in myocardial remodeling and mitochondrial metabolism induced by myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods

In this study, the MI-induced mouse mode, hypoxia-treated H9C2 cells model, and hypoxia-treated neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) model were constructed. Echocardiography and histological analysis were adopted to evaluate the morphology and function of the heart at the whole heart level. Western blot was adopted to determine the related expression level of signaling pathway proteins and mitochondria. Mitochondrial energy metabolism and oxidative stress were detected by various testing kits.

Results

Neuraminidase 1 was markedly upregulated in MI cardiac tissue. Cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 deficiency restored cardiac function, cardiac hypertrophy, and myocardial interstitial fibrosis. What is more, cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 deficiency inhibited mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress induced by MI. Further experiments found that the sirtuin-1/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator α (SIRT1/PGC-1α) protein level in MI myocardium was down-regulated, which was closely related to the above-mentioned mitochondrial changes. Cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 deficiency increased the expression of SIRT1, PGC-1α, and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM); which improved mitochondrial metabolism and oxidative stress. Inhibition of SIRT1 activity or PGC-1α activity eliminated the beneficial effects of cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 deficiency. PGC-1α knockout mice experiments verified that NEU1 inhibition restored cardiac function induced by MI through SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 deficiency can alleviate MI-induced myocardial remodeling, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial energy metabolism disorder. In terms of mechanism, the specific deletion of NEU1 may play a role by enhancing the SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway. Therefore, cardiomyocyte-specific NEU1 may provide an alternative treatment strategy for heart failure post-MI.
Relationships of Serum Bone Turnover Markers With Metabolic Syndrome Components and Carotid Atherosclerosis in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Li Wei , Liu Xiaojun , Liu Lijun , Zhang Lei , Li Mengdi , Liu Rui , Li Tianfang , Chen En , Liu Shengyun
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association of serum bone turnover markers (BTMs) with metabolic syndrome components and carotid atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional based study in T2DM populations. Serum BTMs including N-terminal osteocalcin (N-MID), β-cross-linked C-telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX), and procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) were measured by immunoassay method. Carotid artery intima-media thickness and carotid artery plaque (CAP) were measured by B-mode ultrasound.

Results

The serum N-MID, PINP, and β-CTX levels significantly lower in the CAP group compared with the non-CAP group. N-MID and PINP levels were inversely associated with fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, CRP, eGFR, and triglycerides (all P < 0.05), whereas β-CTX levels were negatively associated with triglycerides (P < 0.05). After multiple adjustment, the odds ratios (ORs) were substantially higher for CAP with decreased N-MID level (OR = 0.958; 95% CI = 0.926–0.991; P = 0.013). However, serum levels of PINP and β-CTX were not associated with the presence of CAP. Multivariate logistic regression analysis further revealed that serum N-MID, PINP, and β-CTX levels were significantly associated with hypertriglyceridemia, whereas serum N-MID and β-CTX levels were associated with overweight/obesity risk.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that serum N-MID level was an independent risk factor for carotid atherosclerosis, whereas BTM levels were associated with other metabolic syndrome components in a T2DM population.