bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fer exacerbates renal fibrosis and can be targeted by miR-29c-3p
Authors: Sun Chen-Min , Zhang Wen-Yi , Wang Shu-Yan , Qian Gang , Pei Dong-Liang , Zhang Guang-Ming
Published: September 2021

Aim

Renal fibrosis (RF) is a common clinical condition leading to irreversible renal function loss. Tyrosine kinase proteins and microRNAs (miRs) are associated with pathogenesis and we aim to investigate the role of Fer and its partner miR(s) in RF.

Method

In silico reproduction of Mouse Kidney FibrOmics browser was performed to identify potential miR(s) and target gene(s). In vivo validation was performed in C57BL/6 mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). In vitro validation was performed in rat kidney fibroblast NRK-49F cells. Mimics and inhibitors of miR-29c-3p were constructed. The target gene Fer was monitored by RT-PCR and western blotting. The levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in serum and media were measured by ELISA.

Results

The Fer expression and protein level were gradually increased during 14 days of UUO modeling. miR-29c-3p expression was strongly correlated with that of Fer. In vivo validation showed increased expressions of fibrosis-associated genes and increased phospoho-Smad3 level in the UUO model. Fer-knockdown (KD) significantly decreased expressions of fibrosis-associated genes. Pharmaceutical inhibition of Fer showed similar effects to miR-29c-3p, and miR inhibition showed a significant decrease of excretion of inflammatory factors.

Conclusion

Dysregulation of miR-29c-3p and Fer plays a role in RF. Pharmaceutical or genetic inhibition of Fer may serve as the potential treatment for RF.
Meditation for adults with non-specific low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Soares Larissa O. , Ferreira Giovanni E. , Costa Leonardo O. P. , Nogueira Leandro C. , Meziat-Filho Ney , Reis Felipe J. J.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

We aim to determine the effectiveness of meditation for adults with non-specific low back pain.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO databases for randomized controlled trials that investigated the effectiveness of meditation in adults with non-specific low back pain. Two reviewers rated risk of bias using the PEDro scale and the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Primary outcomes were pain intensity and disability.

Results

We included eight trials with a total of 1,234 participants. Moderate-certainty evidence shows that meditation is better than usual care for disability at short-term (SMD = −0.22; 95% CI = −0.42 to −0.02). We also found that meditation is better than usual care for pain intensity at long-term (SMD = −0.28; 95% CI = −0.54 to −0.02). There is no significant difference for pain intensity between meditation and minimal intervention or usual care at short and intermediate-term. We did not find differences between meditation and minimal intervention for disability at intermediate-term or usual care in any follow-up period.

Conclusions

We found small effect sizes and moderate-certainty evidence that meditation is slightly better than minimal intervention in the short-term for disability. Low-certainty of evidence suggests that meditation is slightly better than usual care for pain in the long-term. Meditation appears to be safe with most trials reporting no serious adverse events.
Aspectual pairing and aspectual classes in Abui
Authors: Kratochvíl František , Moeljadi David , Delpada Benidiktus , Kratochvíl Václav , Vomlel Jiří
Published: September 2021

This paper describes the aspectual classes in Abui, a Papuan language of the Timor-Alor-Pantar family. Abui innovated a system of aspectual stem pairing, realized by consonant mutation, vowel grading, and rime mutation. Although stem pairing is widespread (about 61% of the verbs alternate), about 38% of our 1,330 verb sample are unpaired and immutable. Abui verbal stems combine with aspectual affixes, adverbs and auxiliary verbs, whose distribution is used here together with the stem types to describe aspectual classes, which are understood as lexicalizations of transitional possibilities of lexical items (e.g. inchoative-stative vs. inchoative-gradual.inchoative-stative). The paper takes the bidimensional approach to aspect distinguishing between properties associated with the perfective-imperfective system and other aspectual marking (cf. Sasse, Hans-Jürgen. 2002. Recent activity in the theory of aspect: accomplishments, achievements, or just non-progressive state? Linguistic Typology 6(2). 199–271). Combining the features of both types of aspectual marking, we construct in a bottom-up fashion the aspectual classes in Abui and also show that these may be further refined if contextual features such as valency or degree of change (affectedness) were included. A characteristic feature of the Abui system is the elaborate system of stative-inchoative verbs sensitive to scalar and change properties (e.g. instant vs. gradual). Abui telic verbs show sensitivity to the properties of the resulting state and are formally associated with stem alternation.
Tonotopic Specializations in Number, Size, and Reversal Potential of GABAergic Inputs Fine-Tune Temporal Coding at Avian Cochlear Nucleus
Authors: Al-Yaari Mohammed , Onogi Chikao , Yamada Rei , Adachi Ryota , Kondo Daiya , Kuba Hiroshi
Published: September 2021

GABAergic inhibition in neurons plays a critical role in determining the output of neural circuits. Neurons in avian nucleus magnocellularis (NM) use several tonotopic-region-dependent specializations to relay the timing information of sound in the auditory nerve to higher auditory nuclei. Previously, we showed that feedforward GABAergic inhibition in NM has a different dependence on the level of auditory nerve activity, with the low-frequency region having a low-threshold and linear relationship, while the high-frequency region has a high-threshold and step-like relationship. However, it remains unclear how the GABAergic synapses are tonotopically regulated and interact with other specializations of NM neurons. In this study, we examined GABAergic transmission in the NM of chickens of both sexes and explored its contributions to the temporal coding of sound at each tonotopic region. We found that the number and size of unitary GABAergic currents and their reversal potential were finely tuned at each tonotopic region in the NM. At the lower-frequency region, unitary GABAergic currents were larger in number but smaller in size. In addition, their reversal potential was close to the resting potential of neurons, which enabled reliable inhibition despite the smaller potassium conductance. At the higher-frequency region, on the other hand, unitary GABAergic currents were fewer, larger, and highly depolarizing, which enabled powerful inhibition via activating the large potassium conductance. Thus, we propose that GABAergic synapses are coordinated with the characteristics of excitatory synapses and postsynaptic neurons, ensuring the temporal coding for wide frequency and intensity ranges.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWe found in avian cochlear nucleus that the number and size of unitary GABAergic inputs differed among tonotopic regions and correlated to respective excitatory inputs; it was larger in number but smaller in size for neurons tuned to lower-frequency sound. Furthermore, GABAergic reversal potential also differed among the regions in accordance with the size of Kv1 current; it was less depolarized in the lower-frequency neurons with smaller Kv1 current. These differentiations of GABAergic transmission maximized the effects of inhibition at each tonotopic region, ensuring precise and reliable temporal coding across frequencies and intensities. Our results emphasize the importance of optimizing characteristics of GABAergic transmission within individual neurons for proper neural circuit function.
From Global to Local
Authors: Hill Genia
Published: September 2021

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, conducted an independence referendum in 2019, which resulted in the region seeking a pathway to complete independence. One of the requirements in establishing independence is ensuring “good governance,” an important facet of which is establishing a stable and adequate food supply. This is framed globally as achieving Sustainable Development Goal Two (SDG #2) to end hunger and malnutrition. This article seeks to assess the measures that government and major donors have taken to implement SDG #2 in Bougainville using a pressure-state-response framework and desktop-based risk assessment to identify areas for further work. The investigation aims to identify effective policy focus areas in order to better implement SDG #2, namely, prioritising civil conflict avoidance, facilitating adaptation planning for climate regime shifts, and ensuring sustainable agricultural intensity and fisheries extraction. Based on these, recommendations for good governance include sustainable and equitable long-term interventions that reduce the risk of political disturbance and environmental degradation. As a result of engaging in this case, readers will be able to apply similar methodologies to inform development decisions in postconflict contexts. Bougainville faces similar challenges to many Pacific islands, including the impacts from climate change, food insecurity, conflict, population growth, and changing land tenure. This case can be extrapolated to these greater contexts.
The effect of sodium-glucose link transporter 2 inhibitors on heart failure end points in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Crabtree Thomas Simon James , Ryder Robert EJ
Published: September 2021

Sodium-glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been demonstrated to improve cardiovascular outcomes. In particular, SGLT2i appear to be beneficial in improving heart failure outcomes in people with and without diabetes. The aim of this review was to synthesis current evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SGLT2i to placebo in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The outcomes of interest were rate hospitalisation due to heart failure (primary), death due to heart failure (secondary) and incidence rates of heart failure (secondary).Methods: Searches were performed using recognised terms in MedLine, EMBASE, Pubmed and CINAHL. Studies were included if they compared an SGLT2i to inhibitor in an RCT and contained data for an outcome of interest. Studies were reviewed for inclusion by two people (TSJC and REJR) and data extraction and bias assessment were performed using a modified Cochrane’s data extraction tool and bias assessment tool. Meta-analysis of hazard ratios was performed in RevMan 5.4 using generic inverse variance and a fixed effects model where possible.Results: 2,850 records were identified of which 11 were eventually included, covering 9 clinical studies. Eight of these were suitable for meta-analysis for the outcome of hospitalisation due to heart failure – the pooled hazard ratio was found to be 0.69 (95% CI 0.63, 0.75). Interstudy heterogeneity was minimal (I2 0%) Only one study contained outcomes for death specifically due to heart failure, but its results were not significant. No current studies report incidence rates of new heart failure diagnosis.Conclusion: SGLT2is reduce the rates of hospitalisation due to heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes. This may help mediate the improvements seen in all cardiovascular outcomes, especially when assessed as a composite. More evidence is needed to support their use in reduce mortality due to heart failure and incidence rates of new heart failure in this high-risk cohort.
Microcalcifications without a thyroid nodule as the sole sign of papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Ioakim Stamatina , Constantinides Vasilis , Toumba Meropi , Lyssiotis Theodoros , Kyriacou Angelos
Published: September 2021

Our objective is to demonstrate the importance of considering microcalcifications even without evidence of nodules as a potential sign of malignancy. Current guidelines, such as those of the British Thyroid Association, acknowledge the clinical significance of microcalcifications only when found within nodules. In this case, they are considered a suspicious feature, classifying the nodules as U5 (i.e. high risk) where fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is warranted, following the high likelihood of cancer in these nodules. In addition, there is a dearth of evidence of ultrasound scan (USS) detection of microcalcifications in the thyroid gland outside of nodules, along with their associated clinical implications. Yet, this clinical manifestation is not so infrequent considering that we do encounter patients in the clinic showing these findings upon ultrasound examination. Three patients who presented to our clinic with thyroid-related symptoms were shown to have areas of microcalcifications without a nodule upon sonographic evaluation of their thyroid gland. These incidentally detected hyperechoic foci were later confirmed to correspond to areas of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) on histopathological examination of resected tissue following thyroidectomy. Four more cases were identified with sonographic evidence of microcalcifications without nodules and given their clinical and other sonographic characteristics were managed with active surveillance instead.

Learning points

Echogenic foci known as microcalcifications may be visible without apparent association to nodular structures.

Microcalcifications without nodules may not be an infrequent finding.

Microcalcifications are frequently indicative of malignancy within the thyroid gland even without a clearly delineated nodule.

Empirically, the usual guidelines for the management of thyroid nodules can be applied to the management of microcalcifications not confined to a nodule, but such a finding per se should be classified as a ‘high-risk’ sign.
Management of a patient with Sheehan’s syndrome and diabetes insipidus complicated by recurrent hyponatremia
Authors: Al-Sharafi Butheinah A , Askar Faiza , Qais Ahmed A
Published: September 2021

A 38-year-old female was initially seen in the intensive care unit after severe postpartum hemorrhage. She was initially diagnosed to have Sheehan’s syndrome and after discharge, she was diagnosed to have a vesicovaginal fistula which initially caused a delay in diagnosing diabetes insipidus in the patient because she was having urinary incontinence. The patient had the vesicovaginal fistula repaired and was on replacement with levothyroxine, prednisone, and desmopressin. Years after her diagnosis, the patient experienced recurrent episodes of hyponatremia in the setting of desmopressin therapy. This case highlights the challenges of diagnosing diabetes insipidus in a patient with Sheehan’s syndrome and a vesicovaginal fistula, as well as the long-term management of central diabetes insipidus in a resource-limited setting.

Learning points

Sheehan’s syndrome is rarely associated with diabetes insipidus, and in our patient, it was initially missed due to a vesicovaginal fistula which caused urinary incontinence.

Water intoxication is more common in young children and older adults but can occur years after initiating treatment with desmopressin in adults and should be kept in mind when treating patients with hyponatremia who have hypopituitarism associated with diabetes insipidus.

Water intoxication is much more common in patients with diabetes insipidus being treated with intranasal desmopressin than in those using the oral preparations.
Does diabetes mellitus mitigate the gender gap in COVID-19 mortality?
Authors: Kautzky-Willer Alexandra
Published: September 2021

In this SARS-COV2-pandemic, diabetes mellitus (DM) soon emerged as one of the most prominent risk factors for a severe course of corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and increased mortality due to hyperglycemia/insulin resistance, obesity, inflammation, altered immune status, and cardiovascular complications. In general, men are at a higher risk of severe or fatal COVID-19 disease irrespective of age, region and despite comparable infection rates in both sexes. In COVID-19, there is also a male predominance among hospitalized patients with diabetes, however, overall, data among patients with diabetes are ambiguous so far. Of note, similar to cardiovascular complications, women with type 2 diabetes (DM2) appear to lose their biological female advantage resulting in comparable death rates to those of men. The complex interplay of biological and behavioral factors, which may put men at greater risk of a severe or fatal course of COVID-19, and gender-related psychosocial factors, which may cause disadvantage to women concerning the infection rates, might explain why sex-disaggregated data among infected patients with diabetes are conflicting. Better knowledge on biological factors leading to functionally different immune responses and of gender-sensitive sociocultural determinants of COVID-19 infection rates may help to optimize prevention and management in the high-risk groups of men and women with diabetes.
Two distinct classes of thymic tumors in patients with MEN1 show LOH at the MEN1 locus
Authors: Mandl Adel , Welch James M , Kapoor Gayathri , Parekh Vaishali I , Schrump David S , Ripley R Taylor , Walter Mary F , Del Rivero Jaydira , Jha Smita , Simonds William F , Jensen Robert T , Weinstein Lee S , Blau Jenny E , Agarwal Sunita K
Published: September 2021

Patients with the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome carry germline heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in the MEN1 gene which predisposes them to develop various endocrine and non-endocrine tumors. Over 90% of the tumors show loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at chromosome 11q13, the MEN1 locus, due to somatic loss of the wild-type MEN1 allele. Thymic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) or thymic carcinoids are uncommon in MEN1 patients but are a major cause of mortality. LOH at the MEN1 locus has not been demonstrated in thymic tumors. The goal of this study was to investigate the molecular aspects of MEN1-associated thymic tumors including LOH at the MEN1 locus and RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) to identify genes associated with tumor development and potential targeted therapy. A retrospective chart review of 294 patients with MEN1 germline mutations identified 14 patients (4.8%) with thymic tumors (12 thymic NETs and 2 thymomas). LOH at the MEN1 locus was identified in 10 tumors including the 2 thymomas, demonstrating that somatic LOH at the MEN1 locus is also the mechanism for thymic tumor development. Unsupervised principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering of RNA-Seq data showed that thymic NETs formed a homogenous transcriptomic group separate from thymoma and normal thymus. KSR2 (kinase suppressor of Ras 2), that promotes Ras-mediated signaling, was abundantly expressed in thymic NETs, a potential therapeutic target. The molecular insights gained from our study about thymic tumors combined with similar data from other MEN1-associated tumors may lead to better surveillance and treatment of these rare tumors.
Desarrollo clínico-biológico de ratas alimentadas con dieta semi-purificada a base de clara de huevo
Authors: González-Infante Gabriela Alejandra , Del Castillo Salomón Jesús Rafael , Herrera Mirabal Francisco Fernando , Aguiar Guzmán Guillermina , Marcano Eunice , Rondón Verenzuela Lusliany Josefina
Published: September 2021

Ante la escasez de alimento concentrado para animales en el país, la investigación se centró en elaborar una dieta basada en las directrices del Instituto Americano de Nutrición (AIN) con ingredientes endógenos y probarlos en ratas en gestación, lactancia y crecimiento. En el Experimento 1 se trabajó con 12 ratas Sprague Dawley (SD) machos de 5-6 semanas, la mitad alimentada con dieta control y la otra mitad con dieta no purificada a base de clara de huevo (EWP) durante seis semanas. En el Experimento 2 se trabajó con 10 ratas SD gestantes sometidas a las mismas dietas (control y EWP), para seleccionar 14 crías macho de cuatro semanas de edad para continuar con los mismos regímenes de alimentación por cinco semanas más (7 control y 7 EWP). En ambos experimentos se realizó evaluación de parámetros clínicos-metabólicos (peso corporal, evaluación clínica y estudio en caja metabólica), En el segundo experimento se evaluaron, además, parámetros biológicos (concentración de proteínas y hematología). Los resultados muestran parámetros clínicos-metabólicos estables y parámetros biológicos normales, lo que permite concluir que EWP es adecuada para el desarrollo óptimo y sano de las ratas de laboratorio.
Análisis de los desembarques de la pesca comercial en Yarinacocha (Ucayali, Perú) entre 2015-2019
Authors: Salazar-Ramírez Lilia Enny , Riofrío-Quijandría José Carlos , Zavaleta-Flores Javier Oscar , Rubio-Rodríguez Juan Alfredo
Published: September 2021

Se analizaron las estadísticas de desembarque de pescado fresco y refrigerado en Yarinacocha durante el periodo 2015 a 2019, considerando desembarques totales y desembarques por especie (en toneladas métricas - t), artes de pesca, lugares de pesca y número de viajes. La Captura por Unidad de Esfuerzo (CPUE) se expresó en t*viaje con pesca-1. Los resultados indican que los desembarques fueron relativamente mayores en 2016 (815 t), aunque sin diferencias significativas entre años. Los desembarques mensuales presentaron diferencias significativas principalmente entre meses de creciente (enero-abril) con meses de vaciante (julio-agosto), lo que confirma la influencia de los niveles del río, donde los desembarques aumentan en aguas bajas (julio-setiembre) y disminuyen en aguas altas (enero-marzo). En desembarques por categoría trófica, los detritívoros dominaron en “creciente” y los omnívoros en “vaciante”. Especies de las órdenes Siluriformes y Characiformes son dominantes, especialmente Pterygoplichthys spp "carachama" y Prochilodus nigricans "boquichico". Las artes de pesca más importantes por su contribución al desembarque fueron las redes de enmalle y las redes de cerco, en tanto que por la frecuencia de uso resaltaron, además, los anzuelos o espineles.
Calidad del agua y de la leche en sistemas de ordeño manual de la Sierra Norte del Ecuador
Authors: Contero Rocío , Cachipuendo Charles
Published: September 2021

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la calidad del agua utilizada durante el ordeño manual y su influencia en la calidad microbiológica de la leche. Se trabajó con 63 productores de ganado bovino de comunidades localizadas en Cayambe y Pedro Moncayo en la región Sierra Norte del Ecuador. Las muestras fueron colectadas en las unidades productivas donde realizan el ordeño, en las cuales el 98% no disponía de agua potable. La población fue categorizada en dos grupos: los que utilizan agua potable, transportada en recipientes (G1) y los que utilizan agua colectada de otras fuentes (lluvia o riego) (G2). G1 presentó agua y leche de calidad aceptable: coliformes totales <50 NMP/100 ml; ausencia de coliformes fecales y CBT <200x103 UFC/ml, en tanto que las muestras de agua y leche de G2 presentaron coliformes totales superando los límites permisibles, presencia de coliformes fecales (29%) y CBT >900x103 UFC/ml. En ambos grupos, el análisis en superficie de mesófilos aerobios en los tarros colectores mostró una limpieza inapropiada (>400 UFC/cm2). Se concluye que la calidad del agua utilizada en el ordeño es uno de los factores que incide en la calidad microbiológica de la leche.
Efectos de la suplementación dietaria con cebolla (Allium cepa) sobre el desempeño del pavo en crecimiento, peso de órganos internos y estabilidad oxidativa de la carne
Authors: Paredes Manuel , Sagástegui Fredy
Published: September 2021

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el efecto de diferentes niveles de suplementación alimenticia del bulbo de cebolla (Allium cepa) sobre el desempeño productivo del pavo, peso de órganos corporales y estabilidad oxidativa de la carne. Se trabajó con 200 pavos Hybrid Converter machos desde 42 hasta 98 días de edad, asignados a cuatro tratamientos dietéticos (cinco repeticiones por tratamiento y 10 aves por repetición). Todos los pavos recibieron el mismo alimento concentrado, variando los niveles de suplementación con cebolla fresca picada (0, 1, 3 y 5% con relación al peso corporal semanal de los pavos). La cebolla fresca suplementada produjo mayor ganancia de peso, siendo el nivel de 1% suficiente para generar un mejor índice de conversión alimenticia. El bulbo de cebolla no mejoró el rendimiento de carcasa ni los pesos de corazón, hígado, bazo, molleja, o grasa abdominal; sin embargo, se comprobó la mejor capacidad antioxidante de la cebolla fresca sobre la carne del pavo cuando es almacenada a 4 °C durante siete días.
Nuevo bioestimulante de floración y maduración en café (Coffea arabica L.)
Authors: Chacón-Villalobos Yeiner , Chacón-Sancho Adriana , Vargas-Chinchilla Mariano , Cerdà-Subirachs Josep Ma. , Hernández-Pérez Ricardo
Published: September 2021

Introducción. Las variables climáticas han sido en el cultivo del café en la región centroamericana; las altas temperaturas, altos niveles de luz ultravioleta (UV), las precipitaciones y su intensidad, han causado serios problemas para el desarrollo del cultivo. Hay desequilibrios fisiológicos causantes de pérdidas en la estimulación y cuajes florales y, según la variedad, las mermas de la producción pueden ser superiores al 60 %. Objetivo. Conocer el efecto que tiene un nuevo bioestimulante sobre la floración, maduración y calidad de los frutos en el cultivo del café. Materiales y métodos. El trabajo se realizó durante los años 2018 y 2019, en la finca La Hilda, lote Murillo, localizada en la provincia de Alajuela, Cantón San Pedro de Póas, Costa Rica, bajo manejo agroecológico. Se evaluó el efecto de la aplicación de un producto bioestimulante foliar a dosis de 3 l ha-1, certificado para producción en agricultura ecológica. Se utilizaron dos tratamientos, dos y tres aplicaciones, de bioestimulante y se compararon con un testigo absoluto. Los parámetros evaluados fueron: la estimulación y cuaje floral, nudos productivos para el próximo ciclo y calidad de los frutos. Resultados. No existieron diferencias estadísticas significativas entre los dos tratamientos del bioestimulante (3 l ha-1) en contraste con el testigo. Al evaluar la mayor producción de frutos cuajados y mayor calidad de estos, cuando se realizaron las aplicaciones durante la fase de floración y fructificación, se obtuvo una homogeneidad de la maduración y mayor número de cerezas por ramas. Conclusión. El empleo del nuevo bioestimulante con dos aplicaciones foliares sobre el cultivo del café, estimuló la floración, maduración y calidad de los frutos respecto al testigo sin tratar.
Performance of Mesoamerican bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lines in an unfertilized oxisol
Authors: Beaver James S. , González-Vélez Abiezer , Lorenzo-Vázquez Giovanni , Macchiavelli Raul , Porch Timothy G. , Estevez-de-Jensen Consuelo
Published: September 2021

Introduction. Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Central America and the Caribbean are often produced on low fertility soils which reduces crop yield. Bean breeding programs need to identify genotypes that have superior adaptation to these conditions. Objective. Identify Mesoamerican bean germplasm lines with superior adaptation to low soil fertility. Materials and methods. The performance of twenty-seven Mesoamerican bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lines from the Bean Abiotic Stress Evaluation (BASE) 120 panel were evaluated in an unfertilized oxisol at Isabela, Puerto Rico over five growing seasons (four-year period from 2015-2018). The lines were inoculated with a mixture of Rhizobium etli and R. tropici to promote symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). Results. Four lines produced mean seed yields >1,200 kg ha-1 and had estimates of nitrogen derived from the atmosphere (NDFA) >50 %. Greater nodule number was positively correlated with % NDFA, later maturity and seed yield. The heat and drought tolerant small red cultivar ‘Rojo Chortí’ and the heat tolerant white cultivar ‘Verano’ had among the smallest apparent C isotope discrimination values suggesting greater water use efficiency. Among the elite lines in the trial, root rot damage was minimal and the basal root growth angles were intermediate (40-60 %), which favored the uptake of water and soil nutrients. Conclusion. Mesoamerican bean lines with superior seed yield and enhanced symbiotic nitrogen fixation in a low fertility soil were identified. Many of these lines also possess resistance to other biotic and abiotic factors that limit bean seed yield in Central America and the Caribbean.
Aspectos clave para la transformación genética de arroz (Oryza sativa L.) subespecie indica mediante Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Aguilar-Bartels Cindy Marié , Quirós-Segura Priscillla , García-Piñeres Alfonso , Gatica-Arias Andrés , Arrieta-Espinoza Griselda
Published: September 2021

Introducción. La transformación del arroz (Oryza sativa L. ssp indica) mediada por Agrobacterium, representa una oportunidad para la investigación científica y el mejoramiento genético. Es necesaria la optimización del protocolo para obtener la mayor eficiencia de transformación. Objetivo. Evaluar diferentes factores que afectan la transformación genética en callos embriogénicos de arroz de la subespecie indica vía Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Materiales y métodos. Este estudio se realizó en San José, Costa Rica, entre 2012 y 2014. En seis tratamientos se evaluaron: el efecto de la edad del callo, la concentración de acetosiringona, condición luminosa, la presencia o ausencia de radícula y la cepa de Agrobacterium tumefaciens en la transformación genética de callos embriogénicos de arroz de la variedad CR5272 con el gen reportero gus. Se compararon la cepa de Agrobacterium LBA4404 con el plásmido pCAMBIA1305.2 y las cepas ATHV, GV3101 y LBA4404, con el plásmido pCAMBIA1303; mediante pruebas histoquímicas para la detección de la expresión transitoria del gen marcador que codifica para la β-glucuronidasa. Resultados. La evaluación de los seis tratamientos con la cepa LBA4404::pCAMBIA1305.2 resultó en expresión transitoria del gen GusPlus de 1,33-7,00 % para la variedad CR5272 y de 8,00 % para el control con la variedad Nipponbare (ssp. japonica). Las cepas con el plásmido pCAMBIA1303 presentaron una expresión transitoria del gen gusA entre el 100-65 % con un área promedio de 14,23 mm2 (ATHV), 8,81 mm2 (GV3101), y 8,83 mm2 (LBA4404), sin diferencias significativas entre ellas; sin embargo, sí hubo diferencias al compararlas con la cepa LBA4404::pCAMBIA1305.2 (85 %, 4,39 mm2). Conclusiones. La utilización de las condiciones: callos de seis días, concentración de acetosiringona de 76 µM, luz antes y después del cocultivo, presencia de radícula y la cepa ATHV::pCAMBIA 1303, mejoraron la eficiencia de transformación con Agrobacterium tumefaciens en la variedad de arroz CR5272.
Determination of Age and Sex Using Bimastoid Diameter: a Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Okumuş Özlem
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to investigate the possibility of age and sex determination using bimastoid diameter with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). This retrospective study investigated 100 female and 100 male patients aged 18-83 years (mean age: 45.55±16.28 years). To measure bimastoid diameter, the appropriate image was chosen from sagittal, coronal, and axial images of CBCT in which the measurement points could be best detected. The distance between the points of the mastoid process was measured using three-dimensional coronal reconstruction. The mean bimastoid breadth was 106.12±6.22mm. The bimastoid diameter in male cases was higher than that in female cases (110.69±4.53mm vs. 101.65±4.00mm). There was no significant difference in bimastoid breadth with advancing age. For sex determination, morphometric measurements of bimastoid diameter ensured a high rate of dimorphism in the Turkish subpopulation. CBCT morphometric analysis may be reliable and convenient for evaluating sex and may be recommended to compare population data.
Vasco-caucasian vector in the study of germanic vocabulary of unknown origin
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine, Borshchevskyi Serhii V.
Published: September 2021

The present article reflects the results of research into the lexicon of unknown origin of the modern Germanic (English and German) languages. It is presupposed that the vocabulary specified was inherited from prehistoric idioms of ancient Europe and therefore belongs to heterogeneous Pre-Indo-European substrata. Original etymologies on the basis of revealed Germanic-Basque and Germanic-Caucasian parallels are suggested. The author postulates the participation of the Vasco-Caucasian component in ethnogeny of the Germans and differentiation of the Germanic languages.
Polszczyzna młodej inteligencji na przykładzie tekstów popularyzujących naukę
Authors:   Katedra Lingwistyki Kulturowej i Socjolingwistyki, Uniwersytet Jagielloński w Krakowie, Polska, Sagan-Bielawa Mirosława
Published: September 2021

The article refers to the concept of intelligentsia as a social group which exerts significant influence on Polish standard patterns. Although the term intelligentsia is vague and questionable, it is well-established term in Polish linguistics, especially in sociolinguistics. Author argues that science communicators (young professional researchers, science journalists, PhD students) represent the young intelligentsia, because these well-educated people pursue their intellectual development and they have sense of public duty. The article examines standard of popular science texts in Internet, new tendencies in written Polish and attitude of young intelligentsia toward traditional linguistic norm. The errors (esp. punctuation and syntax) exemplify impact of technological changes and phenomenon of secondary orality. It would be useful for science communicators to edit carefully their texts. Both researchers and journalists need to improve their writing skills permanently. Nevertheless it must be emphasized that school education and competent teachers seem to have important influence on the linguistic patterns.
INFLUENCE OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD OF EXTREMELY LOW FREQUENCIES ON HYGROSCOPIC PROPERTIES OF WHEAT GRAIN MASS
Authors: Stankevych G. , Kovra Yu. , Kats A.
Published: September 2021

The research results of the influence of electromagnetic field (EMF) of extremely low frequencies (ELF) on hygroscopic properties of Shestopalivka wheat variety of 2019 harvest have been given. Grain processing was performed on the experimental stand that consisted of the polymeric cylindrical container for grain, solenoid coil, generator of electromagnetic waves GZ-112/1 and a power amplifier of low frequency. The output signal of generator was set in the form of sine wave and controlled by oscillograph C1-78. The studies were performed at EMF frequencies of 10, 16, 24 and 30 Hz. Magnetic induction of grain treatment was constant and equaled 10 mTl. The duration of grain processing was 6 minutes.The equilibrium moisture content of wheat grain was determined by the tensometric method at temperatures t 9 °C and 23 °C and relative humidity φ 33…36 % and 82…82.5 %. The necessary conditions of air were created in desiccators with solutions of sulfuric acid placed in thermostats and refrigerators.It has been determined that the equilibrium moisture of wheat grain processed by EMFof ELF – is in the range of 12.17…20.56 %, and unprocessed grain – in the range of 12.62…21.03 %. Regardless of the frequency of EMF, equilibrium moisture content of the grain wheat processed by EMF varies according to the known laws – decreases with temperature increase and increases with increasing of air relative humidity. It has been shown that the impact of processing by EMF of ELF on the equilibrium moisture contentof wheat grain is manifested at different frequencies in different ways, which is likely due to the resonance phenomena. It has been established that the processing of grain by EMF with frequencies of 10...30 Hz practically has no effect on the equilibrium moisture content of grain at 23 °C and a relative humidity of 33...82.5 % which remains practically at the level of the unprocessed grain. It has been shown that the processing of grain by EMF with frequencies of 24 and 30 Hz under conditions of t = 9 °C and φ = 33 % leads to higher equilibrium moisture content compared to unprocessed wheat grain from 14.45 % to 16.85...16.95 %. Processing of grain with frequencies of 10 and 16 Hz under the same conditions, on the contrary – leads to a decrease in the level of equilibrium moisture content to 13.74…13.86 %. Empirical coefficients have been determined and the equation has been proposed that describes the dependence of equilibrium moisture content of not processed and processed wheat grain by EMF with frequency 10...30 Hz on temperature and relative humidity of the ambient air.
Comparison between immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry for Listeria monocytogenes detection in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues
Authors: Baldi Kelen Regina Ascoli , Lima Jéssica Line Farias de , Silva Isabela Gimenes da , Perosa Fernanda Felicetti , Mendes Ricardo Evandro , Gomes Teane Milagres Augusto
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT: Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that infect humans and animals and causes a zoonotic disease characterized by encephalitis, septicemia or abortion. In addition, listeriosis leads to significant economic losses due to animal death and sacrifice. This research compared the technique of immunofluorescence (IF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the diagnosis of L. monocytogenes in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. A total of 30 tissue blocks from 15 animals with history and/or lesions compatible with listeriosis were selected. For both IHC and IF, the same diluted (1:200) polyclonal primary antibody was used against L. monocytogenes serotypes 1 and 4. For IHC, a polymer secondary antibody conjugated to peroxidase (HRP) was used. For IF, samples were incubated with a fluorescein-labeled anti-rabbit IgG secondary antibody. Each sample was classified according to the presence and percentage of immunolabeling area. From 30 samples, 10 were positive at least for one technique, whereas eight samples were positive for both IHC and IF with similar score. There was strong immunolabeling in tissue samples from bovines experimentally infected with L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644, as well as in nervous tissues from naturally infected ruminants. Additionally, IF did not show any difference in sensitivity when compared to IHC. Using processed biological materials for IF, instead of fresh tissues, is a quite unique technique, since there are few protocols described. Therefore, this study demonstrated that both techniques are efficient to detect L. monocytogenes in FFPE tissues.
Digital soil mapping: Predicting soil classes distribution in large areas based on existing soil maps from similar small areas
Authors: Gonçalves Thaís Gabriela , Pons Nívea Adriana Dias , Melloni Eliane Guimarães Pereira , Mancini Marcelo , Curi Nilton
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT There is an ever-growing need for soil maps, since detailed soil information is directly related to agricultural activities, urbanization and environmental protection. However, there is a lack of large-scale soil maps in developing tropical countries such as Brazil. Albeit there are soil maps for small areas, large regions usually have undetailed maps. Considering the importance of finding low-cost alternatives to overcome the lack of detailed soil information, the main objective of this work was to manually create a local soil map and extrapolate it to similar larger areas that lack detailed soil information. The Anhumas River Basin, in the municipality of Itajubá, southeast Brazil, was manually mapped and this map was used to predict soils distribution for the entire municipality. First, the prediction model was tested in the same basin and provided sufficient results, achieving 67% global accuracy and 0.62 Kappa coefficient. Second, the resulting map was used together with the soil map of the larger José Pereira Basin to map the entire municipality, achieving 54% global accuracy and 0.40 Kappa coefficient. Low resolution parent material information was found to confuse models; maps showed better results when this variable was removed. The Minas Gerais soil map presents general mapping units only for the Acrisol class and its associations with other soil classes in the area. The soil map predicted by this work identified more soil classes. Mapping representative areas and extrapolating these maps to larger similar areas constitute a promising alternative to overcome the lack of detailed soil maps.
CLINICAL APPLICATION OF 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY FOR PREOPERATIVE PLANNING OF THUMB RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: XU LIN , TAN JIA , WEI PINGOU , LUO XIANG , TAN HAITAO , MUDGAL CHAITANYA SHAMSUNDER
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to explore the clinical application of preoperative precise design for 3D printing and thumb reconstruction, which could help manage the patients with thumb defect and achieve better function and appearance. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 20 patients who underwent the surgery of harvesting toe transplant and thumb reconstruction between January 2015 and December 2016. The 3D model of the thumb defect was created and printed. The dimensions of skin and bones from donor site were precisely designed as reference for surgical operation. The surgery was performed according to the model. Results: Perfect repair of defects was achieved with satisfying appearance and function. The reconstructed thumbs all survived (survival rate of 100%). Follow-up was 3-9 months. The maximum dorsiflexion was 8-30° and the maximum flexion was 38-58°. The two-point sensory discrimination was 9-11 mm. In total, 17 patients reposted “Excellent” satisfaction and three “Good”, each for the reconstructed thumb and hand function, respectively. The satisfaction rate was 85%. Conclusion: Preoperative digital design and 3D printing according to the donor and recipient sites allowed a tailored operation. The operation was more precise, the appearance of the reconstructed thumb was good. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective Study.
IS THE “U-SIGN” RADIOLOGIC FEATURE OF A POSTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT TIBIAL AVULSION FRACTURE?
Authors: PIEDADE SERGIO ROCHA , FERREIRA DANIEL MIRANDA , HUTCHINSON MARK , MAFFULLI NICOLA , MISCHAN MARTHA MARIA , NEYRET PHILIPPE
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: By analyzing our cases of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tibial avulsion fracture, we noted that a U-shaped image was present in the anteroposterior plain radiographs view of the affected knee, even in cases where the profile view of the knee had been inconclusive as to tibial PCL avulsion fracture, a “hidden” fracture. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether there was an anatomical correlation between this radiological U sign and the tibial insertion of the PCL and to ascertain the intra- and inter-rater reliability of this sign in clinical practice. Methods: The data of the widths and heights area of the PCL tibial insertion area, and the U sign area were measured and compared to the largest width of the tibia. Two moreover, the reliability and reproducibility of this imaging were analyzed. Results: The areas height of the U-sign area and the anatomical insertion area of the posterior cruciate ligament showed no difference, and both were topographically located in the two central quarters of the proximal end of the tibia. The radiographic assessment showed excellent Kappa agreement rates between interobserver and intraobserver, with high reliability and reproducibility. Conclusion: The U sign is a radiographic feature of PCL tibial avulsion fracture seen on the radiograph AP view, there is a high association between the ratios of the U-sign area height in the X-ray and the anatomical height of the PCL tibial insertion site MRI with the largest width of the proximal tibia. The radiographic U sign showed excellent rates of interobserver and intraobserver agreement with Kappa values higher than 0.8. Level of Evidence IV; Dignostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test.
MORTALITY DUE TO TRANSPORT ACCIDENTS IN THE CITY OF SÃO PAULO: 2005-2015
Authors: TRANCHITELLA FÁBIO BOUCAULT , SANTOS RENATA SOUZA DOS , EL BACHA JAMILI JAMEL SAKR HUSSEIN , SOBRADO JÚLIA VILLIBOR , SANTOS MATHEUS BORTOLOCI SAMPAIO DOS , COLOMBO SOUZA PATRÍCIA
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize cases of land transport accidents in the macro-regions of city of São Paulo in 2005, 2010, and 2015. Methods: This is a population-based, longitudinal and retrospective study of time series, based on a quantitative survey of land transport accidents that occurred in the city of São Paulo in 2005, 2010 and 2015 using data from the Mortality Information System of the City of São Paulo. Results: A total of 1,343, 1,567 and 1,088 deaths by accident recorded in the city’ population in the years 2005, 2010 and 2015 respectively. The highest occurrences were in the age groups 15 to 24 years and 24 to 34 years. The highest number of deaths due to accidents was among males. The mortality rates observed in the macro-regions were South (23.8%), East (22%), North (21.6%), West (7.1%), and Center (3%). In comparing the years examined, there was a decline in the mortality rate per 100,000 inhabitants in most macro-regions. Conclusion: Despite the decrease in overall accident mortality in most macro-regions, it still deserves attention on preventive traffic actions focused on young males living in peripheral neighborhoods, since they represent the most susceptible group. Level of evidence II; Retrospective Study.
BROAD PECTUS EXCAVATUM TREATMENT: LONG TERM RESULTS OF A BRAZILIAN TECHNIQUE
Authors: Haje Davi de Podestá , Haje Sydney Abrão , Volpon José Batista , Silva Ana Carolina Oliveira da , Lima Leonardo Ferreira Braz , Huang Wilson
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims the treatment results of broad pectus excavatum after a long-term follow-up and skeletal maturity. Methods: Eighty-four children and adolescents with broad-type pectus excavatum were selected for evaluation after treatment with a dynamic orthosis that applies compression to the lower rib projections and prescription of exercises. The broad pectus excavatum was defined as a deformity that the depressed area was greater and covered the area above and below the nipple line. All patients were evaluated for more than 1 year after the end of treatment and skeletal maturity. Post-treatment results were categorized as mild, moderate and severe. Statistic correlations between results and deformity flexibility, deformity severity, and adherence to treatment were assessed. Results: The mean age at the beginning of treatment was 13.3 years, and the follow-up duration was 25.7 months after suspension of orthosis use. Forty-eight percent of patients showed good results. With regular use of orthoses and performance of exercises, this rate increased to 70% (p < 0,001). Mild cases showed more success than severe cases (p = 0,007). Initial flexibility didn’t influence the results (p = 0,63). Conclusion: Treatment of broad pectus excavatum with orthoses and exercises led to good definitive results in most resilient patients, especially in those with mild deformities. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.