bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucose as a risk factor for periodontitis in kidney transplantation patients
Authors: Young-Min Shin , Mun Kwang Ho
Published: May 2022

Background: Various factors including diabetes and oxidative stress are associated with periodontal inflammation. In patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), accumulation of uremic toxin leads to various systemic abnormalities, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic abnormalities, and infection. Even after kidney transplantation (KT), various factors are known to be associated with inflammation. Our study, therefore aimed to study risk factors associated with of periodontitis in KT patients.Methods: Patients, who visited Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, Korea, since 2018, and diagnosed of periodontal disease were selected. As of November 2021, 923 participants, with full data including hematologic factors were studied. Results: From 923 KT patients, 30 were diagnosed with periodontal disease. Fasting glucose levels were higher in patients with periodontal disease, while total bilirubin levels were lower. When divided by fasting glucose levels, high glucose level showed increase of periodontal disease with odds ratio (OR) of 1.031 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.004-1.060). After adjusting for confounders, results were significant with OR 1.032 (95% CI 1.004-1.061). Conclusions: Our study have shown that KT patients, of whom uremic toxin clearance has been revolted, are yet at risk of periodontitis by other factors, such as high blood glucose levels.
Effect of Attention and Triplet loss on Chart Classification: A study on Noisy Charts and Confusing Chart Pairs
Authors: Thiyam Jennil , Singh Sanasam Ranbir , Kumar Prabin
Published: May 2022

Charts are powerful tools for visualizing and comparing data. With the increase in the presence of various chart types in scientific documents in electronic media, the development of automatic chart classification system is becoming an important task. Existing studies on chart classification fail to address the presence of noise in charts, and confusing chart class pairs. Motivated by the above observations, in this paper, we propose an attention and triplet loss based deep CNN framework to address the above issues. From various experimental results over four datasets, it is evident that the proposed framework can effectively handle noises in the chart and confusing chart samples, and outperforms its counterparts.
Biological insights and technical obstacles during rapid at-line single-cell analysis of algal cultures based on label-free flow cytometry
Authors: Sandmann Michael , Rading Michael
Published: May 2022

The potential of label-free flow cytometry (FC) for bioprocess monitoring was determined for its application to model cultures of Chlamydomonas. A theoretical approach based on Lorenz-Mie theory revealed that the storage compounds within algal cells, specifically lipid bodies and starch granules, are the most important contributors to the commonly used wideangle light scattering signal in FC devices. As a result of cellular growth dynamics, a pronounced nonlinearity appeared in the FC data which resulted in distorted chlorophyll and wide-angle scatter distributions. In relation to the nonlinearity, the potential of label-free FC as a tool to follow trajectories of cellular development was determined and revealed high cellto-cell heterogeneity for cellular chlorophyll amount and the wide-angle light scattering signal, showing a spread of about one order of magnitude. Over the developmental cycle, a linear correlation was observed between mean values of the distributions of cellular chlorophyll amount and the wide-angle light scattering signal. Surprisingly, on the singlecell level a relatively low but dynamic correlation over time was observed. Additionally, the mother cells within the cell population differentiated into two subpopulations. In conclusion, nonparallel development of the algal cells was revealed, which expands the view about synchronicity in algal cultures.
Seasonal fluctuations in Babesia bigemina and Rhipicephalus microplus in Brangus and Nellore cattle reared in the Cerrado biome, Brazil
Authors: Martins Kauê Rodriguez , Andreotti Renato , Higa Leandro de Oliveira Souza , Bonatte-Junior Paulino , Duarte Pâmella Oliveira , Barros Jacqueline Cavalcante , Garcia Marcos Valério , Csordas Bárbara Guimarães , Zimmerman Namor Pinheiro
Published: May 2022

Background: Rhipicephalus microplus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Canestrini, 1888) is a tick that causes great economic and health losses related to the cattle industry and is the main vector of Babesia bigemina (Piroplasmidae: Babesidae, Smith & Kilborne, 1893). B. bigemina is responsible for a tick-borne disease known as babesiosis that can cause hemolytic anemia, fever, and death. This study investigated the relationship between the number of ticks per animal and the number of B. bigemina cbisg gene copies in the blood of Brangus and Nellore cattle reared without acaricidal treatment in the Brazilian Cerrado over a one-year period.Methods: The ticks on 19 animals (9 Brangus and 10 Nellore cattle) were counted every 18 days, and blood was collected every 36 days for 12 months. Serological samples were analyzed with iELISA. Genomic DNA (gDNA) was analyzed by PCR and qPCR. The PCR products were sequenced by the Sanger method.Results: These two breeds showed similar weight development and no clinical signs of babesiosis. Statistically significant differences (p< 0.05) were observed in the number of ticks and the number of B. bigemina cbisg gene copies between the breeds.Conclusion: No babesiosis clinical signs were observed, and no correlation between the number of ticks and the number of circulating copies of cbisg was observed.
Thermobalancing therapy with Dr Allen's Device improves health-related quality of life in patients with kidney stone disease – A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Allen Simon , Akram Muhammad , Kamal Shahid , Rashid Abid , Adjani Ariana , Malik Akram , Khalil Muhammad , Sherwani Rehan
Published: May 2022

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of Dr Allen’s Therapeutic Device in improving quality of life in patients with nephrolithiasis.Materials and Methods: A randomized, interventional, parallel group study was conducted investigating 54 patients aged 18-60 years with nephrolithiasis. 29 of the 54 patients were randomised (1:1) into a treatment group of 15 patients (Group 1) and a control group of 14 patients. The remaining 25 (Group 2) were treated but not randomised as they had stones larger than 10 mm. Both treatment groups used Dr Allen’s Device for 6 months. Their quality of life was measured using the Wisconsin Stone Quality of Life Questionnaire (WISQoL) at regular intervals and compared between the groups. The change in size of the kidney stones was also measured and compared. The trial was registered at the World Health Organisation via the German Clinical Trials Registry (DRKS00009367).Results: Thermobalancing therapy with Dr Allen's Device for Kidney Treatment showed a significant improvement in HRQoL across all domains of the WISQoL and a significant reduction in size of kidney stones in both treatment groups (p<0.001). There was no significant change in stone size in the control group. Conclusions: The use of Thermobalancing therapy with Dr Allen's Device for Kidney Treatment is effective in both dissolving kidney stones as well as improving quality of life.
Longer Duration of Prenatal Treatment and Intravenous Specific Drug Can Reducing Mortality of Pregnant Patient With Idiopathic Pulmonary Artery Hypertension: An Observational Case Series
Authors: Mingwang Jia , Changhong Shi , Mingmei Xiong , Guangyuan Liao , Dunjin Chen , Yichun Wang
Published: May 2022

Background: Pulmonary hypertension has a high mortality rate in pregnant women, especially idiopathic pulmonary artery hypertension. To better understand this disease, we performed a retrospective chart review of pregnant idiopathic pulmonary artery hypertension patients admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University between June 2016 and May 2021.Methods: The medical records were reviewed to identify all pregnant women with IPAH between 2010 and 2016. Obstetric data include prenatal, sub partum, and postpartum characteristics were collected in the study. We divided patients into survival and non-survival groups and compared the two groups' differences.Results: Hospital length of predelivery was longer in the survival group (61.00[42.00, 102.00] vs 4.00[2.75, 14.00], P=0.02), and the falling value of PAP (admission - delivery)was higher in the survival group than non-survival group (4.00[0.00, 16.75] vs 0.00[0.00, 0.00], P=0.03) . There were significant differences in Treprostinil (P=0.01), ICU stays (P<0.01), and hospital length of stay (P<0.01) between the survival and non-survival groups.Conclusions: Prenatal treatment duration and reduction of PAP are essential in reducing mortality. The application of intravenous specific drugs also plays a vital role in the prognosis of patients.
Changing in gamma aminobutyric acid and phytic acid during the development of yogurt- like product from germinated hyacinth bean
Authors: Nguyen Duc Doan , Vu Huong Quynh
Published: May 2022

Hyacinth bean was used for developing a functional yogurt-like product with a high level of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Germinated hyacinth bean extract was fermented with three different yogurt cultures to pH 4.5 and then stored at 4–6°C for 21 days. The variation in GABA and phytic acid levels during cold storage was evaluated. The type of culture and storage time significantly influenced GABA and phytic acid levels. Lactococcus lactis ssp. cremoris, Lc. lactis ssp. lactis and Streptococcus thermophilus produced a yogurt-like product with the highest level of GABA. In addition, the level of GABA and phytic acid significantly decreased during cold storage.
Novel Technique for Intractable Hiccups with Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Laser Cervical Discectomy: Case Report
Authors: Ma Jiahui , Jin Yangqing , Ni Yuncheng , Hu Rong , Han Rui , Huang Dong , Zhou Haocheng
Published: May 2022

Study design: Case report and technical note.Objective: The aim of this study is to report our novel ultrasound-guided technique of percutaneous laser cervical discectomy in one successful case of intractable hiccups.Summary of background data: Intractable hiccups serve no physiological purpose, but significantly reduce the quality of life. There are a variety of medications suggested for the treatment of persistent or intractable hiccups. However, it remains a challenge for the management of intractable hiccups.Methods: A 41-year-old male, who suffered intractable hiccups over 11 years, came to our pain department in December 2020. Neither oral medication nor phrenic nerve block achieved satisfactory relief of hiccups. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scan revealed cervical disc herniation of C4/5 and C5/6. Following selective cervical nerve root block, complete but short-term control of symptoms lasted less than 48 hours. Percutaneous laser cervical discectomy was then performed under ultrasound guidance. Results: The pathological hiccup reflex was terminated immediately after the minimally-invasive procedure, and the enduring therapeutic effect was reported up to the 14-month follow-up. We did not observe any obvious complications in this case.Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided percutaneous laser cervical discectomy may be an alternative and safe option for those with intractable hiccups caused by cervical discogenic etiology.
Disrupted effective connectivity of the periaqueductal gray in migraine without aura patients
Authors: Liu Xiaozheng , Cheng Jinming , Cao Yungang , Ke Yang , Li Yan , Zhang Xi , Wang Zhihong , Liu Kun , Dong Lipeng
Published: May 2022

Background: The periaqueductal gray (PAG) is a key region in the descending pain modulatory system. We applied a Granger causality analysis (GCA) based approach to examine resting-state effective connectivity (RSEC) of the bilateral PAG regions in migraine patients without aura (MwoA).Methods: Resting-state fMRI data were obtained from 28 MwoA patients and 17 well-matched healthy controls (HCs). The RSEC of the bilateral PAG was characterized using a voxel-wised GCA method. The resulting RSEC measurements were assessed for correlations with other clinical features.Results: Compared with the HCs, MwoA patients showed increased EC from left PAG to left anterior cingulate gyrus and right postcentral gyrus. Meanwhile, MwoA patients also showed increased EC from right PAG to left precentral gyrus and increased RSEC from left caudate and right middle occipital gyrus to right PAG.Conclusions: Disturbances of RSEC between PAG and limbic system, primary sensorimotor cortex, and visual cortex may play a key role in neuropathological features, perception, and affection of MwoA. The current study provides further insights into the complex scenario of MwoA mechanisms.
The role of postoperative radiotherapy in patients with vulvar squamous carcinoma: findings based on the SEER database
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Tao , Sun Jing
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The role of postoperative radiotherapy in treating squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva remains controversial. This study evaluated the effect of radiotherapy on the survival of patients with postoperative squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva.Methods： Clinical and prognostic information on patients diagnosed with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma from 2010 to 2015 was collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Prognosis (SEER) database. A propensity score matching (PSM) approach was used to balance the differences in clinicopathological characteristics between groups. The impact of postoperative radiotherapy on overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) was assessed.Results： The study included 3629 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva, of whom 767 (21.1%) underwent postoperative radiotherapy. After propensity score matching, multivariate analysis showed that Age, M stage, tumor size, and lymph node surgery were independent prognostic factors affecting patient survival. Postoperative radiotherapy improved patients' overall survival and disease-specific survival. Further subgroup survival analysis showed that overall survival was significantly improved among patients who received radiotherapy in patients with Grade III, IV, AJCC stage III, N1, lymph node metastasis, large tumor diameter, and those who received chemotherapy.Conclusion: Postoperative radiotherapy may provide a survival benefit for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva, especially for AJCC stage III, lymph node metastases, large tumor diameter, and those receiving postoperative chemotherapy.
A Novel approach towards Neuro Acoustic Loops and their intervention in various Neuro Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Aasim Shahzad , Ahmad Suhail , Butt Muheet , Wani Hilal , Fatima Rifat , Ganie Abdul , Dar Nizam Ud Din
Published: May 2022

Acoustic signals are not transmitted to the brain wholly by contrivances of the ear but influences us through the mediums of skin, bones, and viscera. The ear is awfully subtle to vibrations in the air and conveys the tessellations of these vibrations in a form that the brain distinguishes as sound and speech. The medical devices are being developed that consume high-intensity focused acoustic signals as a non-invasive method for diagnostics and treatment of various psychiatric ailments. The major benefit of these sound or music & acoustic signals that offers the technique so readily to use in non-invasive therapy is its ability to breach deep into the human body and supply to a specific site thermal or mechanical energy with sub-millimetre accuracy. In this paper an attempt is made to study the intervention of these sound frequencies in general and their effects on neuro-psychiatric mechanisms and allied phenomenon. The quantification of specific frequencies (Acoustic loops) which will ameliorate the various disorders after their identification can also be correlated with various biochemical parameters that will be analysed with regards to the changes effected by these interventions. The proposed research work might provide a novel approach of treatment for neuro psychiatric disorders using the above stated measures using acoustic loops intervention that uses specific spectral frequencies to trigger effective and discernible changes in the subjects/patients suffering from neuropsychiatric ailments etc. The work intends to provide the effect of the above mentioned on 50 subjects which are taken in isolation wherein the results are quite demanding.
The hsa_circ_0024183 may affects glioblastoma progression by interacting with the protooncogene SALL4
Authors: Lei Zhang , Qi Wang , Junle Zhu , Jingliang Ye , Fenglin Zhang , Feng Chen , Jun Qian , Chun Luo , Huairui Chen , Qing Zhang
Published: May 2022

Purpose: The pathogenesis of glioma is not clear, SALL4 is a protooncogene and has been shown to promote the growth of glioma cells. CircRNAs have been shown to play a role in the development of tumors, but the relationship between SALL4 and circRNAs has not been well characterized. The aim of this study is to establish the association between SALL4 and circRNAs.Methods: The circRNAs and miRNAs related to SALL4 screened before were detected in glioma and normal brain tissue samples, then hsa_circ_0024183 was selected to determine its effect on glioma progression in vivo and vitro. The interaction between hsa_circ_0024183, miR-485-5p and SALL4 was clarified by double luciferase assay and RNA immunoprecipitation analysis.Results: The expression of hsa_circ_0024183 was significantly higher in glioma patients and human glioblastoma cell lines than in normal brain(P<0.05). GBM patients with higher hsa_circ_0024183 expression had worse outcome. The reduction of hsa_circ_0024183 by siRNA was found to decrease the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of GBM cells and block their cell cycles at the S phase. Furthermore, a decrease of hsa_circ_0024183 expression in GBM cells was found to inhibit their tumorigenicity in nude mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that hsa_circ_0024183 can regulate SALL4 expression by sponging miR-485-5p. And hsa_circ_0024183 RNA could directly bind to SALL4 protein.Conclusion: Interference with hsa_circ_0024183 can reduce the expression of SALL4 and the binding of hsa_circ_0024183 to SALL4 protein. It may affect the progression of glioma through the PTEN/PI3K/Akt pathway. This discovery provides an opportunity to develop potential targeted therapy against glioma.
The economic cost of bovine trypanosomosis in pastoral and ago pastoral communities in Buliisa district, Uganda
Authors: Kizza Daniel , Ocaido Michael , Mugisha Anthony , Azuba Rose , Nalule Sarah , Onyuth Howard , Musinguzi Simon Peter , Nalubwama Sylvia , Waiswa Charles
Published: May 2022

Background - Animal diseases that are endemic like tsetse transmitted trypanosomosis cause the continuous expenditure of financial resources of livestock farmers and loss of productivity of livestock. Estimating the cost of controlling animal trypanosomosis can provide evidence for priority setting and targeting cost-effective control strategies.Methodology A cross-sectional survey to estimate the economic cost of bovine trypanosomosis was conducted in cattle-keeping communities living around Murchision falls National Park, in Buliisa district Uganda. Data was collected on herd structure, the cost of treatment and control, prevalence of morbidity and mortality rates due to trypanosomosis, and salvage sales losses in cattle herds in the last year.Results- In this study, 55.4% (n= 87) of the households reported their cattle had been affected by trypanosomosis during the previous last year. There was a high economic cost of trypanosomosis (USD 653) per household in cattle-keeping communities in Buliisa district of which 83% and 9% were due to mortality and milk loss respectively/ High mortality loss was due to low investment in treatment. The study showed that prophylactic treatment 3 times a year of the whole herd of cattle using Samorin ® (Isometamidium chloride) at a cost of USD 110 could drastically reduce cattle mortality loss due to trypanosomosis due to trypanosomosis with a return on investment of USD 540 annually per herd. This could be coupled with strategic restricted insecticide spraying of cattle with deltamethrin products.Conclusions. The results show a high economic cost of trypanosomosis in cattle-keeping communities in Buliisa district, with cattle mortality contributing the largest proportion of the economic cost. The high mortality loss was due to low investment in treatment of sick cattle
Amine Bendahmane1* and Redouane Tlemsani1
Authors: Bendahmane Amine , Tlemsani Redouane
Published: May 2022

Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) is a recent metaheuristic that has been used in several optimization problems. In this paper, we adapt this metaheuristic to robotics for solving the Unknown Area Exploration problem with energy constraints in both single and multi-robot scenarios. We conducted several experiments to validate the approach and compare its performance to well-known metaheuristics used in the literature using 5 different comparison criteria. We also proposed a new version of the algorithm (xBOA) based on the crossover operator. We compared its results to the original BOA and 3 other variants recently introduced in the literature. Although BOA and xBOA are not optimal in all evaluation criteria, we found that BOA can be a good alternative to many metaheuristics in terms of the exploration time, while xBOA is more robust to local optima; has better fitness convergence; and achieves better exploration rates than the original BOA and its other variants.
Scanning Electron Microscopy and Metabolite Measurement Revealed the Stress Mechanism of PS-COOH Microplastics on Rhodotorula mucilaginosa AN5
Authors: Ma Jiahao , Meng Xiangfei , Li Zixin , Li Lexian , Xu Jiwen , Kan Guangfeng
Published: May 2022

Microplastics in the marine environment have been paid more and more attention by researchers, and the impact of these substances on marine microorganisms can not be ignored. This study aims to pay attention to the effect and mechanism of microplastics (80 nm PS-COOH) on Antarctic marine yeast, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa AN5. In our work, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the morphology of yeast cells under microplastic stress, and metabolite analysis was used to explore the possible mechanism of yeast cell damage. The results showed that: (1) a certain concentration of PS-COOH could inhibit 40% growth of yeast cells and destroy the cell morphology. (2) Physiological and biochemical changes showed that under PS-COOH stress, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) of R. mucilaginosa AN5 increased from 34–66%. It can be guessed that yeast can eliminate excess ROS in cells by the activity of oxidative kinases increased and maintain the balance of reactive oxygen species in cells.
“It Gives Me, as her Caregiver, a Sense of Security.” Young People with Intellectual Disability and their Experiences with Sexuality, Menstruation, Gynecological Treatment and Contraception: A Follow-up Analysis of Parents’ and Caregivers’ Perspectives
Authors: Retznik Laura , Wienholz Sabine , Höltermann Annelen , Conrad Ines , Riedel-Heller Steffi Gerlinde
Published: May 2022

Background
Research shows that caregivers support but also impede people with intellectual disabilities from developing intimate relationships. People with intellectual disability experience coital sex later and less often compared to adolescents without disabilities. Caregivers often request hormonal contraception from gynecologists on their behalf. Their main motives are pregnancy avoidance (either as a result of consensual sex or sexual abuse) and menstrual suppression.
Method
The sample included 42 primary caregivers of young people with intellectual disability aged 14 to 25. Interviews were evaluated with qualitative content analysis.
Results
Nine of the main caregivers assumed that sexual intercourse had taken place. Half of the carers evaluated the importance of sexuality for the young people with intellectual disability as high. The main reason for seeing a gynecologist was the prescription of hormonal contraceptives; the outcome of which was arbitrary and dependent on the individual gynecologist. The majority of young women took general hormonal contraceptives as a preventive measure or due to heavy bleeding, regardless of sexual activity. One-fifth took hormone depots as a form of long-term contraception.
Discussion
A trusting relationship with the gynecologist favored the compliance and well-being of the young women. The administration of hormonal contraceptives seems to be controlled by third parties. Caregivers used hormonal contraceptives to simplify the regulation of menstruation and felt relieved by it. Carers view the sexual activities of the young women more critically because they fear a pregnancy and the responsibility for a potential grandchild. The use of hormonal contraceptives made carers clearly more tolerant of sexual activity.
Modeling of the combined dynamics of leptospirosis transmission and seroconversion in herds
Authors: Chadsuthi Sudarat , Chalvet-Monfray Karine , Kodjo Angeli , Wiratsudakul Anuwat , Bicout Dominique J.
Published: May 2022

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease-causing illness in both humans and animals resulting in related economic impacts due to production loss as well as prevention and control efforts. Several mathematical models have been proposed to study the dynamics of infection but none of them has so far taken into account the dynamics of seroconversion. In this study, we have developed a general framework, based on the kinetic model for animal leptospirosis, that combines both the infection and the antibody dynamics to simultaneously follows both infection and seroconversion status of leptospirosis in a herd population. It is a stochastic compartmental model (for transition rates) with time delay (for seroconversion) which describes the progression of infection by a SEIR (susceptible, exposed, infected and removed) approach and seroconversion by four-state antibody kinetics (antibody negative and three antibody positive states of different antibody levels). The model shows that it is possible to assess and follow both infection and seroconversion status through the prism of diagnostic testing. Such an approach could prove useful to assist the competent authorities in their analyzes of epidemic situations and in the implementation of strategies for controlling and managing the associated risks.
Native T1 and T2 Reference Values for Maltese Healthy Cohort
Authors: Yamagata Kentaro , Yamagata Lara Marie , Abela Mark , Mifsud Claude Portanier , Micallef Lee Ann , Reichmuth Luise , Borg Alexander
Published: May 2022

BackgroundCardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) is increasingly being used for diagnosing various cardiac conditions. Parametric mapping enables quantitative myocardial characterization by directly measuring myocardial T1 and T2 values. However, reference values of parametric mapping are not standardized across different vendors and scanners, causing drawbacks for clinical implementation of this technique across different sites. We assessed the reference ranges of native T1 and T2 values in a healthy Maltese cohort to establish a local parametric mapping service. Methods and ResultsHealthy subjects (n=51; mean age 36.0 [range 19-59] years) with normal cardiac function on CMR were recruited. Subjects underwent uniform parametric mapping pulse sequences (MOLLI 5(3)3 for native T1 mapping, and gradient echo single shot FLASH readout for T2 mapping) on a 3T Siemens MAGNETOM Vida scanner. Native T1 and T2 values were measured by placing a region of interest within the interventricular septum at midventricular level. Intra- and inter-observer variability were assessed using Bland-Altman plots. Normal distribution of data was assessed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test (p-value of 0.773 for native T1, p-value of 0.125 for T2). Mean ±1.96 SD was used as a reference range. Mean native T1 and T2 values were 1200.1 ±30.7 ms and 39.5 ±1.8 ms, respectively. All parameters had excellent day-to-day intra-observer reproducibility and inter-observer reproducibility. ConclusionFor the first time in Malta, we established the native T1 and T2 parametric mapping reference values for healthy Caucasian Maltese individuals. This will assist cardiologists to establish diagnosis, disease progression, and response to treatment of various myocardial diseases locally.
Factors secreted by monosodium urate crystal-stimulated macrophages promote a proinflammatory state in osteoblasts: a potential indirect mechanism of bone erosion in gout
Authors: Naot Dorit , Pool Bregina , Chhana Ashika , Gao Ryan , Munro Jacob T , Cornish Jillian , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: May 2022

Background: Tophi are lesions commonly present at sites of bone erosion in gout-affected joints. The tophus comprises a core of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals surrounded by soft tissue that contains macrophages and other immune cells. Previous studies found that MSU crystals directly reduce osteoblast viability and function. The aim of the current study was to determine the indirect, macrophage-mediated effects of MSU crystals on osteoblasts. Methods: Conditioned medium from the RAW264.7 mouse macrophage cell line cultured with MSU crystals was added to the MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cell line. Conditioned medium from the THP-1 human monocytic cell line cultured with MSU crystals was added to primary human osteoblasts (HOBs). Matrix mineralization was assessed by von Kossa staining. Gene expression was determined by real-time PCR, and concentrations of secreted factors were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: In MC3T3-E1 cells cultured for 13 days in osteogenic medium, the expression of the osteoblast marker genes Col1a1, Runx2, Sp7, Bglap, Ibsp, and Dmp1 was inhibited by conditioned medium from MSU crystal-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Mineral staining of MC3T3-E1 cultures on day 21 confirmed the inhibition of osteoblast differentiation. In HOB cultures, the effect of 20 h incubation with conditioned medium from MSU crystal-stimulated THP-1 monocytes on osteoblast gene expression was less consistent. Expression of the genes encoding cyclooxygenase-2 and IL-6 and secretion of the proinflammatory mediators PGE2 and IL-6 were induced in MC3T3-E1 and HOBs incubated with conditioned medium from MSU crystal-stimulated macrophages/ monocytes. However, inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 activity and PGE2 secretion from HOBs indicated that this pathway does not play a major role in mediating the indirect effects of MSU crystals in HOBs. Conclusions: Factors secreted from macrophages stimulated by MSU crystals attenuate osteoblast differentiation and induce the expression and secretion of proinflammatory mediators from osteoblasts. We suggest that bone erosion in joints affected by gout results from a combination of direct and indirect effects of MSU crystals.
Regularity of solutions to nonlinear elliptic equations in generalized Morrey spaces
Authors: Guliyev V.S. , Gadjiev T.S. , Serbetci A. , Rustamov Y.I.
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we prove the generalized Morrey estimates for the gradient of weak solutions to a class of nonlinear elliptic equations in a very general irregular domain. The nonlinearity ${\bf a}(x,\xi)$ is assumed to be measurable in $x$ for almost every $\xi$ and belongs to the small $BMO$ class.
Effect of time restricted feeding on anthropometric measures, eating behavior, stress, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) levels in women with overweight/obesity and food addiction: a study protocol for a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Irani Hanieh , Khodami Banafsheh , Abiri Behnaz , Saidpour Atoosa
Published: May 2022

Background: Food addiction is one of the behavioral factors that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity. Much evidence is available suggesting intestinal microbiomes can play a role in eating behavior, body composition and BDNF levels, and they can be modified by Time-Restricted Feeding (TRF). So, this study will aim to evaluate the effect of TRF on anthropometric measures, eating behavior, stress, serum BDNF and LBP levels in women with overweight/obesity and food addiction.Methods: we will carry out a randomized clinical trial for 8 weeks to evaluate the effect of a TRF on anthropometric measures, eating behavior, stress level, serum BDNF and LBP levels in women with overweight/obesity and food addiction.Discussion: Given the effect of BDNF on regulating eating behavior and body weight and the effect of dietary restrictions on BDNF and the gut microbiome, the TRF diet could possibly be a new way to successfully manage weight through modifying BDNF in people with eating disorders, including food addiction.Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. IRCT20131228015968N7. Registered on 2020-10-25.
sobre conexões que transcendem o controle
Authors: Lira Ana
Published: May 2022

This is a text by the Brazilian artist, photographer, curator, storyteller, editor, and articulator Ana Lira, that provides a preface to the writings gathered in South Boom Boom: this special section of the Performance Philosophy journal. In the text, Lira reflects on how the texts demonstrate different layers of refusal to the "visible and symbolic violence, which gains new contours in each cycle, continues to (de)mark creative lives even in territories that claim to be revising their "colonial pasts, structures and methodologies."
champurrias
Authors: Montecinos Oliva Paula
Published: May 2022

This is a text by the Chilean artist, Paula Montecinos Oliva. The text is a confluence of written streams, influenced by conversations, practices and creative processes shared with Johan Mijail, Flavia Pinheiro, Pedro Matias, Devika Chotoe, Veza Fernandez, Papaya Kuir Collective and accompanied by the writings of Gloria Anzaldua, Edouard Glissant, Fred Moten and Silvia Rivera Cusicanqui, among others.
Reflections on curatorial articulation practices. A collective doing: that's why I don't write alone
Authors: Lopes Mario
Published: May 2022

In this text, Brazilian artist Mario Lopes addresses how he redefines and reuses the word "curatorship" through his practices according to nine specific steps and introduces the idea of Afrotranstopia. As Lopes explains: “For a long time, the term "curator" has triggered noises and conflicts in me. I question the practices and market logics operating within our viral system, which I call PACACO-bi: Patriarchy, Capitalism and Colonialism within a binary structure. I name "PACACO-bi" this syndemic virus of our history, which affects us as humanity and governs us as a society. For this reason, considering myself a curator is a permanent conflict in each experience where I act as such. I try to exercise a curatorial practice that, on principle, combats this viral system, constantly asking myself: Is it possible to break with the logics immanent to the capitalist system, at the same time freeing myself from the patriarchal place of power? Is it possible to overcome the binary logic and colonial methods of action pervading social relations?”
El pensamiento selvage
Authors: Pinheiro Flavia
Published: May 2022

This is a text by the Brazilian artist Flavia Pinheiro. For Pinheiro, “This essay is an attempt to ask—in a frustrated and submerged, tear-sunken technology of wording and on behalf of the ones who never had the right to live or who do not belong, or those who have never been here, for those who died right after birth—what it could be if we dream and act together, towards indiscipline and disruption of macrostructures”.
Sub-Atlantic Abyss
Authors: Andreatta Isis
Published: May 2022

This is a text by the Brazilian dance maker, choreographer and performer Isis Andreatta. For Andreatta, “This writing is a reverie about inhabiting the abyss of sub-atlantic life. An outline of a storytelling about subverting physical and metaphysical margins. Diving. A confident act of raving deliriously along the edges is a way of existing beyond the stigmas of “Terra Firme”. For her, this text is a gesture to embody fiction as a commitment with a non hegemonic imaginary and an alliance between anticolonial, anti-racist and anti-manicomial practices.
Ti/ p-GaN Schottky Diyotunun Elektriksel Parametrelerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ASIL UĞURLU Hatice
Published: May 2022

Ti/p-GaN Schottky diyotunun elektriksel özellikleri araştırıldı. İdealite faktörü (n), engel yüksekliği (Фb) ve seri direnç (Rs) gibi temel diyot parametreleri akım-gerilim (I-V) karakteristiği özelliklerinden faydalanarak geleneksel I-V yöntemi, Cheung fonksiyonları ve Norde yöntemi ile incelendi. İdealite faktörü (n) I-V yönteminde 1.62 ve Cheung fonksiyonlarından 3.54 olarak hesaplandı. Farklı yöntemlerden hesaplanan engel yüksekliği (Фb) değerlerinin birbirine yakın değerlerde olduğu bulundu. Ti / p-GaN Schottky diyotunun hesaplanan seri direnç (Rs) değerleri de kohm mertebesinde olduğu görüldü. Ti/p-GaN Schottky diyotunun arayüzey durum yoğunluğunun büyüklüğü 6.35 × 1012 cm−2 eV−1 ile 3.48 × 1013 cm−2 eV−1 arasında değiştiği belirlendi.
Al2O3 encapsulated by calcium alginate as composite for efficient removal of phosphate from aqueous solutions: batch and column studies
Authors: Ai Huiying , Xu Lei , Zhang Zhiyong , Hu Xiaoya , Chen Chen , Sun Wenjie , Fu Ming-Lai , Yuan Baoling
Published: May 2022

Activated alumina (Al2O3) has been widely used to remove aqueous anionic pollutants such as phosphate for preventing the eutrophication phenomenon. While Al2O3, as a fine powder material, cannot be stably packed into continuous flow treatment, which limits its practical applications. Herein, we proposed a new strategy in which Al2O3 was encapsulated by calcium alginate (CA) to fabricate Al2O3/CA composite, which has relatively large particle size and can be suitable for application in columns. The BET surface area of Al2O3/CA increased to 51.73 m2/g compared with 37.31 m2/g of Al2O3. The maximum adsorption capacity of phosphate on Al2O3/CA was estimated at 1.92-fold compared with that of pure Al2O3 by Langmuir fitting. The main mechanism of phosphate adsorption was the formation of aluminum phosphate precipitation. Moreover, the column studies showed that the adsorption of phosphate on Al2O3/CA was affected by the amount of outer calcium alginate, bed height, influent flow rates and phosphate concentration. This study demonstrated that Al2O3/CA composite has better adsorption capacity and can be used in the dynamic adsorption system as a promising approach for phosphate removal from water.

HIGHLIGHTS Al2O3/CA composite was synthesized by encapsulating Al2O3 in calcium alginate. The BET surface area of Al2O3/CA increased 1.39-fold compared with pure Al2O3. Al2O3/CA with larger particle size can be easily separated from the water. The optimal conditions for dynamic adsorption of in fixed-bed column were investigated.
DEMOCRACIA E LUTA DE CLASSES NO PENSAMENTO DE ELLEN WOOD
Authors: Alcantara Pedro
Published: May 2022

A presente resenha do livro "Ellen Wood: o resgate da classe e a luta pela democracia", publicado por Jefferson Nascimento em 2019, busca debater o conceito de classe em Ellen Wood, para a partir disso relacionar a tentativa de renovação do materialismo histórico empreendido pela referida autora com seu modelo de democracia substantiva, à luz do livro objeto dessa resenha. Buscaremos mostrar como o livro debate a articulação possível entre classe e democracia como alternativa ao modelo político capitalista liberal, no pesamento de Ellen Wood.
SOBRE ARMADILHA DA IDENTIDADE
Authors: Lima Diogenes
Published: May 2022

Não há resumo por tratar-se de uma resenha.
ENTREVISTA COM PATRÍCIA TOVAR
Authors: Fortes Lore
Published: May 2022

ENTREVISTA
DEMANDAS À DIGNIDADE
Authors: Queiroz Aryanne
Published: May 2022

Poesia que trata sobre algumas demandas direcionadas à Dignidade.
Joan Tronto: responsabilidade relacional, reconhecimento de privilégios e vulnerabilidade
Authors: Spinelli Letícia
Published: May 2022

Este artigo pretende se ocupar com a noção de responsabilidade relacional em Joan Tronto, a qual é mobilizada em vista da tese do cuidado concebido numa perspectiva global. Além de expor a noção de responsabilidade relacional, o texto propõe que as percepções de reconhecimento de privilégios e vulnerabilidade são fundamentais para apreensão, por parte dos indivíduos, da noção de uma responsabilidade fundada na relação.
A Marca do Cognitivo e Cognição 4E
Authors: Alonso Bernardo Gonçalves , Ramos Ronaldo
Published: May 2022

Neste artigo é defendido que a noção conhecida como “marca do cognitivo” é melhor caracterizada como um processo que realiza a função de gerar comportamento inteligente, de modo flexível e com caráter adaptativo, capaz de se adequar às circunstâncias, por ser um processo sensível a contextos. Para tanto, são examinadas algumas definições de cognição relevantes para o presente propósito. Ao final, aponta-se que a definição da marca do cognitivo como processo sensível a contextos dá conta de diversos fatores que foram acrescentados como partes constitutivas de fenômenos cognitivos ao longo dos anos, em especial a Cognição 4E, que não pode ser satisfatoriamente acomodada a partir das noções precedentes de cognição. Assim, este artigo não deve ser confundido apenas com um exercício de história intelectual, mas como uma breve e acessível tentativa de avançar o debate.
The Endothelin C-Terminal Signal Fragment: Determinants of the Conformational Equilibrium in situ and Detached
Authors: Andersen Niels H. , Chen Chinpan , Lee Gregory M.
Published: May 2022

NMR studies reveal that the conformational equilibrium of the HLDIIW fragment of endothelins, which is the C-terminal extension beyond the disulfide-linked core, is relatively little affected by changes in the structural preference within the bicyclic core. Rather the major determinant appears to be a hydrophobic interaction between the Trp ring and the lie19 sidechain. At subambient temperatures in aqueous medium, this interaction appears to be enhanced in species that have residues 12- 15 present and in a helical conformation.
Crystallization and Preliminary X-ray Analysis: Transition State Complex of a Chloraphcnicol Prodrug Activitation Specific Catalytic
Authors: Kristensen O. , Miyashita H. , Vassylyev D.G. , Tanaka F. , Fujii I. , Morikawa K.
Published: May 2022

The Fab fragment of an antibody with esterolytic activity has been crystallized as a complex with a transition state analog. Two crystal forms, both diffracting X-rays to a limiting resolution of 1.8 Å or better, proved to be
of a quality suitable for X-ray crystallographic studies. Data have been collected on both crystal forms in space group P2J with unit cell parameters: a= 55.9 Å, b= 61.7 Å, c= 66.67 Å and β= 104.7° for form I; a= 58.70 Å, b= 63.04 Å, c= 56.56 Å and β= 98.75° for form II. Both forms contain one molecule per asymmetric unit.
Purification and Characterisation of a Novel Secondary Alcohol Dehydrogenase from A Thermonaerobacterium SP.
Authors: Simpson Helen D. , Cowan Don A.
Published: May 2022

An anaerobic, thermophilic bacterium, designated as Thermoanaerobacterium sp. Ket4Bl, was isolated from an alpine thennal . area in New Zealand. A novel NADP-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase, showing specificity for secondary alcohols, was isolated and purified 77-fold. The sADH was a homotetramer with a subunit molecular mass of 40,000 Da. The enzyme was very thermostable, exhibiting a half-life of 135 min at 80°C. N-terminal sequence data revealed a close similarity with other sADH's isolated from anaerobic thennophiles.
Structural and Functional Analyses of SARS COV-2 RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase Protein and Complementary vs. Synthetic Drugs against COVID-19 and the Exploration of Binding Sites for Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, and Density Functional Theory Studies
Authors: Unar Ahsanullah , Imtiaz Mahrukh , Trung Truong Tan , Rafiq Maria , Fatmi Muhammad Qaiser , Jafar Tassadaq Hussain
Published: May 2022

Background:

RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) contributes to the transcription cycle of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with the possible assistance of nsp-7-8 cofactors.

Objective:

To investigate the viral protective effects of complementary drugs in computational approaches that use viral proteins.

Methods:

For the in silico studies, the identified compounds were subjected to molecular docking with RdRp protein followed by structural and functional analyses, density functional theory (DFT), and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The 3D structure of RdRp (6m71 PDB ID) was obtained from the protein databank as a target receptor. After reviewing the literature, 20 complementary and synthetic drugs were selected for docking studies. The top compounds were used for DFT and MD simulation at 200 ns. DFT of the compounds was calculated at B3LYP/6-311G (d, p) based on chemical properties, polarizability, and first-order hyperpolarizability. Results were analyzed using USCF Chimera, Discovery Studio, LigPlot, admetSAR, and mCule.

Results:

Computational studies confirmed the potent interaction of the complementary drugs forsythiaside A, rhoifolin, and pectolinarin with RdRp. Common potential residues of RdRp (i.e., Thr-556, Tyr-619, Lys-621, Arg-624, Asn-691, and Asp-760) were observed for all three docking complexes with hydrogen bonding. Docking analysis showed strong key interactions, hydrogen bonding, and binding affinities (-8.4 to −8.5 kcal/mol) for these ligands over the FDA-approved drugs (−7.4 to −7.6 kcal/mol). Docking and simulation studies showed these residues in the binding domains.

Conclusion:

Significant outcomes of novel molecular interactions in docking, simulation, DFT, and binding domains in the structural and functional analyses of RdRp were observed.
Manganese-Catalyzed Radical 6-endo Azacyclization of 2-Alkynylbenzamide
for the Synthesis of 3-Hydroxylisoquinolin-1,4-dione
Authors: Cheng Xiya , Yan Xiaoyang , Li Meng , Yadav Sarita , Lin Yanfei , Qiu Guanyinsheng
Published: May 2022

Backgroup:

The versatile 2-alkynylbenzamde has been reported to produce many privileged skeletons, like isoquinolin-1-ones, isocoumarin-1-imines, isoindolin-1-ones, and isobenzofuran-1-imines. Recently, we reported the projected transformation using copper salt (CuCl2) as a catalyst under O2 atmosphere. To expand the scope of reaction we used another inexpensive metal salt MnO2 as catalyst

Methods:

The paper aims at exploring a manganese-catalyzed reaction of 2-alkynylbenzamide under O2 balloon for the synthesis of 3-hydroxylisoquinolin-1,4-dione.

Results:

Results on reaction scope shows the 10 mol% MnO2 in O2 atmosphere and DCE solvent catalyzed the cyclization of 2-alkynylbenzamide to produce 3-hydroxylisoquinolin-1,4-diones in 40-68% isolated yields. The reaction proceeds through a regioselective N-center radical 6-endo-dig aza-cyclization pathway.

Conclusion:

We have developed a manganese-catalyzed cyclization of 2-alkynlbenzamide for the synthesis of 3-hydroxylisoquinolin-1,4-diones under O2 balloon. It is believed that the N-center radical-based 6-endo dig aza-cyclization proceeded in a regioselective manner.
The fight against greenwashing in the European Union
Authors: Silva Daniel
Published: May 2022

Greenwashing, a practice through which companies try to create an image of doing more for the environment than they actually are, is a possible threat to the current environmental goals of the European Union. In this article, we intend to analyse the tools and instruments foreseen by the European Union to combat this phenomenon, particularly from the current ideological line of the European Green Deal and the New Consumer Agenda