bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMPD2 as a novel regulator of ferroptosis
Authors: Chen Haowen , Chi Xinming , Jin Honglin , Zhang Yufei , Zhang Zheming , Zhang Liyuan , Shao Shujuan
Published: April 2022

Purpose
Ferroptosis is a newly discovered programmed cell death, but its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. AMPD2 is a protein, which related to oxygen metabolism in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we aimed to clarify whether AMPD2 is a regulatory factor of ferroptosis, which may provide a new theoretical basis for inducing ferroptosis to treat tumors.
Methods
we constructed AMPD2 overexpression and knockdown cells lines using lentivirus packaging technique. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of AMPD2 in cancerous tissue and adjacent normal tissue. DCFH-DA probe was used to detect the changes of reactive oxygen species(ROS). MDA assay was used to detect the changes of lipid peroxidation. CCK-8 assay was used to detect cell viability. Correlations of AMPD2 with Ferroptosis-related signaling pathways were analyzed using GEPIA. Western blot assay was used to detect changes in Ferroptosis-related molecular markers and signaling pathway.
Results
AMPD2 is higher expressed in NSCLC patient’s tissues. The Overexpression of AMPD2 significantly reduces intracellular ROS and MDA in NSCLC cells, inhibits ferroptosis induced by RSL3 (ferroptosis activator), enhances the expression of p38, p-p38 and GPX4, whereas knockdown of AMPD2 reverse the results. Moreover, treatment with AMP will increase ferroptosis sensitivity medicated by AMPD2.
Conclusions
AMPD2 regulates cellular ferroptosis by modulating the level of AMP affecting the p38 pathway and GPX4.
WITHDRAWN: Reduced tumor volume and increased necrosis of human breast tumor xenograft in mice pretreated by a cocktail of three specific anti-HER2 scFvs: Involvement of stereological methods
Authors: Nejatollahi Foroogh , Nadimi Elham , Noorafshan Ali , Moazen Setareh , Alizadeh Ali Mohammad , khalighfard Solmaz
Published: April 2022

Purpose: We assessed the effects of a cocktail of three specific anti HER2-scFvs on breast tumor formation in a xenograft mouse model and evaluated the quantitative changes of the tumor using stereological analysis.Methods: Three specific anti-HER2 phage-antibody were produced from a scFv-library using phage display technology. Cell binding capacities of the antibodies were assessed by FACS analysis. Soluble forms of antibodies were prepared by infection of HB2151-Ecoli and purified using affinity-based spin column purification method. SDS-PAGE-analysis evaluated the purification process. A cocktail containing equal amount/phage of each scFv was prepared. Inbred female BALB/c-mice were pretreated with 5 and 20-mg/kg of soluble-scFv cocktail and 1011 phage-cocktail/kg. The mice received 2×106 SKBR-3 human breast cancer cells. Tumor volumes were estimated using Cavalieri principle after preparation of photomicrograph slides. . Results: Anti-HER2-scFvs bound to SKBR-3 cells significantly higher than isotype control. SDS-PAGE- analysis showed high purification of scFvs. Stereological analysis revealed that the highest reductions in total tumor volume, non-inflammatory and inflammatory volumes, 73%, 78% and 72%, respectively, belonged to the group pretreated with 20-mg/kg of the soluble scFvs-cocktail in comparison with PBS-pretreated mice (P-value < 0.0001). The volumetric ratio of the necrotic tissue to the total tumor increased 2.2 and 2 folds in the 20-mg/kg and phage displayed scFvs-cocktail groups in comparison with the PBS-treated mice, respectively (P-value <0.05). Conclusions: Significant reduction of tumor volume and increased necrotic area of human breast cancer cells xenograft by pre-treating with 20-mg/kg anti-HER2-scFv cocktail offers the remarkable anti-tumor effect of the cocktail in vivo.
Th2 cells are associated with recurrence following radiation in human papillomavirus negative head and neck cancer.
Authors: Abdelhakiem Mohamed , Bao Riyue , Pifer Phillip M. , Molkentine David , Molkentine Jessica , Hefner Andrew , Beadle Beth M. , Heymach John , Luke Jason J. , Ferris Robert L. , Pickering Curtis , Wang Jing H. , Patel Ravi B. , Skinner Heath D.
Published: April 2022

Background
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) leads to the death of over 360,000 patients annually worldwide. Curative therapy for this disease commonly consists of surgery followed by radiation therapy. Previously, we linked the expression of PD-L1 with clinical radioresistance in HNSCC; however, the relationship between outcome following radiation and immune function is unclear.
Methods
We used two well-annotated cohorts to examine clinical outcomes. The discovery cohort included 94 patients diagnosed with HPV-negative HNSCC who were treated uniformly with surgery and adjuvant radiation. The validation cohort consisted of 97 patients with similar treatment. Immune infiltrates in tumors were derived from RNAseq gene expression in tumor tissues using xCell. The association between each immune cell type and clinical outcomes was tested using Cox proportional hazards models. Immune cell types significantly associated with overall survival (OS), distant metastasis (DM), or locoregional recurrence (LRR) in the discovery cohort were examined in the independent validation cohort. Genes that carry nonsynonymous somatic mutations or have mRNA expression that is associated with the abundance of CD4 + T helper 2 (Th2) cell infiltrate in tumors were also identified in the full TCGA HPV-negative HNSCC cohort as well as nonoverlapping cohorts from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and the National Cancer Institute’s Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC).
Results
In the discovery cohort, we identified intratumoral cell types significantly associated with OS (monocytes, CD4 + memory T cells & Th2 cells), DM (CD4 + memory T cells, sebocytes and epithelial cells) or LRR (common lymphoid progenitor (CLP) cells, CD4 + memory T cells, Th2 cells, and immature dendritic cells (iDCs). However, only a positive association between high levels of Th2 cells and LRR was identified in the validation cohort. We also identified CREBBP/EP300 and CASP8 among the genes that carry somatic mutations significantly associated with the presence of Th2 cells. Additionally, pathway analysis of genes correlated with Th2 cells revealed potential repression of the antitumor immune response and activation of BRCA1-associated DNA damage repair in multiple cohorts.
Conclusions
Th2 infiltrate is enriched in HPV-negative HNSCC tumors and is associated with LRR in two independent cohorts of patients following surgery and radiation. Th2 infiltrate is associated with mutations in CASP8 and CREBBP/EP300 and pathways previously shown to impact the response to radiation. Further investigation is warranted to investigate the mechanisms underlying the role of Th2 cells in mediating radioresistance in HPV-negative HNSCC.
Influence of extracellular matrix composition on tumour cell behaviour in a biomimetic in vitro model for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Calitz Carlemi , Rosenquist Jenny , Degerstedt Oliver , Khaled Jaafar , Kopsida Maria , Fryknäs Mårten , Lennernäs Hans , Samanta Ayan , Heindryckx Femke
Published: April 2022

The tumor micro-environment (TME) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) consists out of cirrhotic liver tissue and is characterized by an extensive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). The evolution from a reversible fibrotic state to end-stage of liver disease, namely cirrhosis, is characterized by an increased deposition of ECM, as well as changes in the exact ECM composition, which both contribute to an increased liver stiffness and can alter tumor phenotype. The goal of this study was to assess how changes in matrix composition and stiffness influence tumor behavior. HCC-cell lines were grown in a biomimetic hydrogel model resembling the stiffness and composition of a fibrotic or cirrhotic liver. When HCC-cells were grown in a matrix resembling a cirrhotic liver, they increased proliferation and protein content, compared to those grown in a fibrotic environment. Tumour nodules spontaneously formed outside the gels, which appeared earlier in cirrhotic conditions and were significantly larger compared to those found outside fibrotic gels. These tumor nodules had an increased expression of markers related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), when comparing cirrhotic to fibrotic gels. HCC-cells grown in cirrhotic gels were also more resistant to doxorubicin compared with those grown in fibrotic gels or in 2D. Therefore, altering ECM composition affects tumor behavior, for instance by increasing pro-metastatic potential, inducing EMT and reducing response to chemotherapy.
The misuse of clobetasol propionate 0.05% based products as skin lightening agents among Sudanese women
Authors: Farah Monzer azhari Mahgoub
Published: April 2022

Despite the social, pathological, physiological, and psychological effects that topical corticosteroids (TCs) present, it has become a widespread practice among Sudanese women. This cross-sectional study involving the three localities of Khartoum state assessed the perceived risks and reasons behind the use of TC among Sudanese women. Data was collected from 217 women using a validated self-administered questionnaire with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.773. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Findings showed that 151 (69.6%) of respondents had used at least one clobetasol propionate 0.05% based product,22 (14.6%) of them used very potent TC for > 6 months. 67(44.4%) have a negative perception of its risks and consequences. The reasons behind why clobetasol propionate 0.05% based product were superior is that: it has a very rapid result (54.2%), low price point (35.5%) and no prescription needed (10.3%), while the main motives for commencement were engagement\wedding\graduation party,33 (21.3%) to satisfy the community beauty standards and 49 (31.6%) commence because of their low self-esteem due to their colored skin [self-satisfaction]. There was a significant difference in the perception of the risks of skin bleaching based on institutional affiliations (t = 3.57, p = .000). This study concluded that the misuse of very potent TC was very prevalent among the studied population and that the participants had a negative perception of its risks and consequences.
Optimization of Mechanical Design of Bladeless Wind Turbine in Electricity Fulfilment in Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia
Authors: Ramadhany Muhammad Farhan , Kusuma Theo Aden , Chelsie Yessika Natalia , Adi Gandha Satria
Published: April 2022

The current government's goal is the realization of an even distribution of the electrification ratio in Indonesia. However, in 2018 the electrification ratio in Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) only reached 62.07%. One of the solutions offered is the implementation of a Bladeless Wind Turbine (BWT). BWT is a type of wind power plant that can work optimally in areas with low wind speeds, 3 to 8 m/s, which is still above the NTT average wind speed, 2.3 m/s. This study aims to optimize the mechanical design of BWT with shape and size parameters based on the manipulation of the coefficient of friction through computational fluid dynamic simulations that can work optimally according to wind speed in NTT. In this study, 3 design variations were used, namely Initial Design, Modified Design 1, and Modified Design 2. Based on the research that has been done, MD2 has better results than MD1 and ID, and it can be said that MD2 can work optimally in wind speed areas. low. So MD2 is a mechanical design model that is very suitable to be applied in NTT and is expected to be a recommendation in making masts for BWT-based wind power plants in Indonesia.
Migrating Federated Learning to Centralized Learning with the Leverage of Unlabeled Data
Authors: Zhu Tianqing , Wang Xiaoya , Ren Wei , Zhang Dongmei , Xiong Ping
Published: April 2022

Federated learning carries out cooperative training without local data sharing, the obtained global model performs generally better than independent local models. Benefifiting from the free data sharing, federated learning preserves the privacy of local users. However, the performance of the global model might be degraded if diverse clients hold non-IID training data. This is because the different distributions of local data lead to weight divergence of local models. In this paper, we introduce a novel teacher-student framework to alleviate the negative impact of non-IID data. On the one hand, we maintain the advantage of the federated learning on the privacy-preserving, and on the other hand, we take the advantage of the centralized learning on the accuracy. We use unlabeled data and global models as teachers to generate a pseudo-labeled dataset, which can signifificantly improve the performance of the global model. At the same time, the global model as a teacher provides more accurate pseudo labels. In addition, we perform a model rollback to mitigate the impact of latent noise labels and data imbalance in the pseudo-labeled dataset. Extensive experiments have verifified that our teacher ensemble performs a more robust training. The empirical study verififies that the reliance on the centralized pseudo-labeled data enables the global model almost immune to non-IID data.
A gene regulation model reveals an ancestral adaptation response to particulate exposure triggered by nanomaterials
Authors: Giudice Giusy del , Serra Angela , Saarimäki Laura , Kotsis Konstantinos , Rouse Ian , Colibaba Anais , Jagiello Karolina , Mikolajczyk Alicja , Papadiamantis Anastasios , Sanabria Natasha , Kinaret Pia , Voyiatzis Evangelos , Melagraki Georgia , Afantitis Antreas , Tamm Kaido , Puzyn Tomasz , Gulumian Mary , Lobaskin Vladimir , Lynch Iseult , Federico Antonio , Greco Dario
Published: April 2022

Toxicogenomics aims at characterising the mechanism of action (MOA) of environmental exposures, and often relies on transcriptomics to investigate the responses of exposed biological systems. However, the identification of shared toxicogenomics-derived signatures across exposed biological systems is hampered by the complexity and heterogeneity of transcriptomics data.
Given the lack of a clear transcriptomic signature of exposure, we hypothesise that common patterns of gene regulation could explain the response to engineered nanomaterials (ENM) across biological systems, disentangling the complexity of their MOA. We performed meta-analysis of a large collection of transcriptomics data from various ENM exposure studies and identified deregulation of immune functions as a prominent response across different ENM exposures. This pattern of transcriptional deregulation differed significantly from exposure to drugs. By investigating the promoter regions of genes frequently altered both in vitro and in vivo following exposure to ENM, we identified a set of binding sites for zinc finger transcription factors C2H2 involved in chromatin remodelling and immunomodulation. We further demonstrate that this gene regulatory model also underlies the transcriptomic MOA in non-mammal species of ecotoxicological interest exposed to ENMs, suggesting that it may be part of the innate immune system conserved by natural selection.
The Human Well-being and Environmental Degradation Nexus in Africa
Authors: Aladejare Samson Adeniyi
Published: April 2022

Environmental degradation continues to attract interest from academics, policymakers, and other stakeholders. However, few studies have exclusively researched its nexus with human well-being. Therefore, this study extends the literature by examining the relationship between human well-being and environmental degradation using 29 African countries from 1970 to 2019. Preliminary tests adaptable to effects of cross-sectional dependency and heterogeneity in panel dataset were adopted, alongside the cross-sectional auto-regressive distributed lag model and the Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality approach. Findings from the study showed that the adopted human well-being indicators such as globalisation, life expectancy and human capital development were environmentally enhancing both in the short and long term. In contrast, growth in income was found to be environmentally degrading in the short and long term. At the same time, urbanisation was only environmentally detrimental in the long term with no significant short-term effect. Natural resource rent which served as a control variable was environmentally degrading both in the short and long term. Also, a bidirectional association between human well-being and environmental degradation was confirmed. Consequently, this study implies a win-win symbiotic nexus between the environment and human well-being in African countries.
Granulosa cell mevalonate pathway abnormalities contribute to oocyte meiotic defects
Authors: Liu Chuanming , Ding Lijun , Sun Haixiang , Bian Qian , Li Chaojun , Zuo Wu , Yan Guijun , Wang Shanshan , Sun Simin , Li Shiyuan , Tang Xinyi , Li Yifan , Cai Changjun , Wang Haiquan , Liu Wenwen , Fang Junshun , Zhang Yang , Zhou Jidong , Zhen Xin , Feng Tianxiang , Hu Yali , Wang Zhenbo
Published: April 2022

The mechanisms of aging-related oocyte meiotic defects and low competence remain elusive. Hi-C and SMART-seq revealed aging-related decreases in chromosome condensation, particularly for genomic regions proximal to the centromeres in metaphase I aged oocytes. Further transcriptomic analysis of oocyte-surrounding granulosa cells (GCs) showed that oocyte meiotic maturation was accompanied by robust increases in mevalonate (MVA) pathway gene expression in GCs, which was largely downregulated in aged GCs. Suppression of MVA metabolism in GCs with statins resulted in marked meiotic defects in young cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Conversely, supplementation with the MVA metabolite geranylgeraniol ameliorated meiotic defects in aged COCs. Meanwhile, geranylgeraniol also activated LHR/EGF signaling in aged GCs and then enhanced the meiosis-associated gene expression in oocytes. Generally, the MVA pathway in GCs is a critical regulator of meiotic maturation in oocytes.
Barriers and Enablers to the Implementation of a Perinatal Care Bundle: The Perinatal Excellence to Reduce Injury in Premature Birth (PERIPrem) Project
Authors: McBain Hayley , Tuvey Sam , Williams Alessandra Glover , Hedge Sally , Menzies Noshin , Bates Sarah , Luyt Karen
Published: April 2022

Background: Preterm birth is the biggest cause of child mortality and morbidity in the UK and although we have seen an overall reduction in stillbirth and neonatal mortality in recent years there is still significant variation across the UK. PERIPrem, is a care bundle that brings together 11 best-practice interventions for mothers and preterm babies. A structured and supportive implementation approach using primarily Quality Improvement methodology has been found to significantly increase adherence to the whole bundle and its individual interventions. Methods: This was a qualitative exploration of the barriers and enablers to implementation and the behaviour change techniques used to encourage adherence to the bundle, using semi-structured interviews. The COM-B model for behaviour change was used as a framework for the interviews and the Theoretical Domains Framework and Behaviour Change Techniques Taxonomy to guide the analysis. Results: Across two timepoints, 47 interviews were conducted with 29 staff from Maternity, Obstetrics and Neonatology. The data revealed that capability, opportunity, and motivation acted as both barriers and enablers to the implementation of the bundle. The qualitative interviews revealed that this was achieved through improvements in perinatal team culture, increasing knowledge and skills, having strong leadership and access to the right resources. But above all else implementation depended upon having a care bundle that was evidence-based and a supportive and credible team. Implementation did not come without its challenges; notwithstanding the global pandemic and the effects this had on staff, challenges included the complexity and size of the bundle, limited dedicated time and resource, and the impact of hierarchical perinatal structures. These findings have provided insights that will advance our understanding about the processes that underpin successful implementation of a complex perinatal care bundle.Conclusions: Several factors interacted to enhance as well as hinder the implementation of this complex perinatal care bundle. Over time, adherence to the PERIPrem bundle was enabled by the application of theoretically informed behaviour change techniques. To improve future delivery of complex care bundles, like PERIPrem, the processes and support provided to aid implementation should reflect on how these barriers can be overcome and the enablers enhanced.
High levels of air pollution reduce team innovation
Authors: Lohmann Paul , Probst Benedict , Gsottbauer Elisabeth , Kontoleon Andreas
Published: April 2022

Various studies document that poor air quality can lead to adverse effects on individual worker productivity in routine jobs. Yet, the effect of pollution on team performance in contexts that require individuals to work collaboratively on non-routine problem-solving tasks is not well explored. These settings are particularly conducive to situations that require innovative solutions, including tackling global challenges such as pandemics, poverty, or climate change. Here, we document a sizable adverse effect of air pollution on team performance using data from 7,500 live escape games in London. On high-pollution days, teams take on average 8% more time to solve a sequence of non-routine analytical tasks, which require collaborative skills analogous to those needed in the modern workplace. Negative effects increase exponentially and are heterogeneous depending on the type of air pollutant. As team efforts predominantly drive innovation, high levels of air pollution may significantly hamper economic development.
Decarboxylative oxidation enabled consecutive C-C bond cleavage
Authors: Li Ruining , Dong Ya , Khan Shah , Zaman Muhammad Kashif , Zhou Junliang , Miao Pannan , Hu Lifu , Sun Zhankui
Published: April 2022

The selective cleavage of C-C bonds is of fundamental interest because it provides an alternative approach to traditional chemical synthesis, which is focused primarily on building up molecular complexity. However, current C-C cleavage methods provide only limited opportunities. For example, selective C(sp3)-C(sp3) bond cleavage generally relies on the use of transition-metal to open strained ring systems or iminyl and alkoxy radicals to induce β-fragmentation. Here we show that by merging photoredox catalysis with copper catalysis, we are able to employ α-trisubstituted carboxylic acids as substrates and achieve consecutive C-C bond cleavage, resulting in the scission of the inert β-CH2 group. The key transformation relies on the decarboxylative oxidation process, which could selectively generate in-situ formed peroxide radicals and trigger consecutive C-C bond cleavage. This complicated yet interesting reaction might help the development of other methods for inert C(sp3)-C(sp3) bond cleavage.
Demarcation of Landslide Potential Zones of Kasaragod Using Gis and Remote Sensing
Authors: KUMAR ANIL
Published: April 2022

The sudden mass movements of earth, rock or debris down a sloped land can be defined as landslides. There are various factors that makes the slope unstable. When a trigger such as rainfall etc. occurs on the existing unstable slope, the movement of land mass occurs which can also be stated as landslides. The present study is based on the various landslides occurred in, Kasaragod, a District of Kerala during year 2020. The study was carried out by integrating remote sensing and GIS applications. Various causative factors are identified for the purpose which includes slope, land use, relative relief, geology, geomorphology, roads, drainage density, soil and lineaments. The maps were digitized in ArcGIS software for the preparation of thematic layers. These maps were integrated for the analysis. The landslide susceptibility map divides the area into five different zones based on the severity of landslides. The critical zone covers an area of 33.94km2, the highly unstable zone has an area of 37.224km2, the moderately unstable zone with an area of 100.567km2, the moderately stable zone having an area of 151.299km2 and finally the stable zone which has an area of 1665.01km2. Based on the map precautions can be taken on the susceptible areas to save the lives and property.
Willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccination among people living with HIV in a high HIV prevalence community
Authors: Govere-Hwenje Sabina , Jarolimova Jana , Yan Joyce , Khumalo Anele , Zondi Gugulami , Ngcobo Marcia , Wara Nafisa J , Zionts Dani , Bogart Laura M , Parker Robert A , Bassett Ingrid V
Published: April 2022

Background People living with HIV (PLWH) may have a poorer prognosis with COVID-19 infection and are an important population for COVID-19 vaccination. We assessed the willingness and reasons for COVID-19 vaccine acceptance or hesitancy among PLWH in South Africa.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study consisting of telephone interviews with a randomly selected subset of participants enrolled in a prospective observational cohort study evaluating a decentralized antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery program in South Africa. Questions assessed willingness to accept a future COVID-19 vaccine, concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccination, and overall vaccine confidence. Interviews were conducted between September 2020 and January 2021. We evaluated participant demographics, sources of COVID-19 information, stigma and medical mistrust, uptake of non-pharmaceutical interventions, and socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as potential covariates of willingness to accept vaccination. Results We completed interviews with 213 participants; 153 (72%) were female, median age 35y, and 100 (47%) had completed secondary school. Among the participants, 121 (57%) were willing to accept future vaccination, 46 (22%) were unsure, and 45 (21%) stated they did not intend to be vaccinated. Fear of side effects, reported by 42 (20%), was the most common concern about COVID-19 vaccination. Older age was associated with willingness to accept vaccination (aOR 1.75 for every 10-year increase in age, 95% CI 1.10-2.78, p=0.02), while higher medical mistrust related to COVID-19 (aOR 0.21, 95% CI 0.093-0.45, p<0.001) and use of social media for COVID-19 information (aOR 0.30, 95% CI 0.11-0.84, p=0.02) were associated with lower willingness to accept vaccination. Conclusions In this cohort of PLWH in South Africa, over half were willing to accept COVID-19 vaccination, although a substantial proportion remained unsure or were not willing to be vaccinated. Public health messaging should emphasize the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination and address misinformation and medical mistrust among PLWH. Ongoing efforts to ensure access to COVID-19 vaccines for vulnerable populations are crucial.
Interprofessional learning to enhance Spanish communication skills in Latinx pharmacy students
Authors: Zapata Gabriela C. , Moyna María Irene , Miller Michael
Published: April 2022

This case study focuses on an interdisciplinary educational experience in which university Pharmacy and Humanities early and late Spanish-English bilinguals were paired to translate questions related to sociobehavioral aspects of medication use. This work describes the personal and professional benefits reported by the translators and the prevailing themes from verbal negotiations. The participants were an undergraduate in Spanish, seven pharmacy professional doctorate students, and five Hispanic studies graduate students. After completing individual translations, students were paired and met virtually to create a final, collaborative version of their translation. Participants were subsequently invited to answer open-ended questions about their experience. Translators’ transcribed interactions and questionnaire responses became the basis for this article. Results show that the main reported perceived benefit was the participants’ improved language skills. The findings also suggest that length, quality, and richness of interactions depended on whether the members of the pairings exhibited mutual respect, curiosity, and empathy.
Pautas atípicas. Las conversaciones en los materiales auditivos para la enseñanza de español L2 publicados en Suecia
Authors: Pauletto Franco , Ahlström Isabelle
Published: April 2022

Este estudio de caso utiliza el análisis de la conversación para examinar la interacción verbal en las conversaciones didácticas de tres manuales de español como lengua extranjera (de ahora en adelante ELE) empleados en la educación secundaria sueca. La observación de dichas conversaciones revela algunos patrones problemáticos en cuanto a la secuencialidad de las acciones, a la presencia sistemática de silencios entre turnos de palabra y, en general, a la falta de coordinación entre co-participantes. Otros fenómenos típicos de la interacción espontánea, como por ejemplo los solapamientos entre turnos de palabra, las reparaciones o las co-construcciones faltan por completo en los materiales analizados. En la perspectiva de una enseñanza de idiomas comunicativa y orientada a la acción, el artículo sostiene que en la preparación de este tipo de soportes didácticos habría que tener más en cuenta la estrecha relación existente entre lengua hablada y acción social.
E-WOM effect through social media and shopping websites on purchase intention of smartphones in India
Authors: Iqbal Asif , Alam Khan Noor , Malik Azam , Rishad Faridi Mohammad
Published: April 2022

This study analyses the comparative effects between E-WOM on online shopping platforms and social networking platforms on consumers’ purchase intention of smartphones in India. The E-WOM effect on buying intention has become an important context for many researchers due to its increasing importance in today’s world of digitalization. This study aims to assess the influence of E-WOM factors on these two platforms, including E-WOM credibility, E-WOM attitude, E-WOM quantity, and E-WOM format, on purchase decisions of smartphones. The data were collected using a questionnaire from 361 respondents in Uttar Pradesh, India. Multiple regression has been applied to empirically measure the influence of independent factors (E-WOM credibility, E-WOM attitude, E-WOM quantity, and E-WOM format) on the dependent factor (consumers’ purchase intention). The result indicates that E-WOM credibility, E-WOM quantity, and E-WOM format on online shopping platforms have more impact than E-WOM on social media on the purchase intention of smartphones. This study aids online companies in understanding the purchase patterns of consumers, and E-WOM on online shopping platforms is more effective in terms of credibility, quantity, and format as compared to E-WOM on social networking platforms toward buying intention of smartphones.
Overexpression of CCR2 in mesenchymal stem cells contributes to homing and liver regeneration
Authors: XING XUEKUN , ZHANG JIAYANG , LI HONGNAN , LIU RUNSHENG , NA WANG
Published: April 2022

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are emerging as a new therapeutic strategy for liver diseases. However, the inability of stem cells to efficiently return to the target tissue is a major obstacle to therapy. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of chemokine CCL2 and its receptor CCR2 on homing of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) after partial hepatectomy and the mechanism by which they enhance liver regeneration. A mouse model of partial hepatectomy was established. Transcriptome sequencing was used to detect the expression of CCl2 in liver tissue. CCR2 was transfected with lentivirus into bone marrow MSCs (BMSCs), and the expression of CCR2 in BMSCs was detected by qRT-PCR. The effect of BMSCs overexpressing CCR2 on liver regeneration in mice with partial hepatectomy was detected by a liver index, HE staining and serum ALT and AST contents. The migration ability of BMSCs modified by CCR2 was observed by a transwell test and PKH26 staining. The influence of CCL2-CCR2 on the homing signalling pathway of BMSCs was detected by western blot and scratch experiments. It was found that CCL2 expression was up-regulated during the whole process of liver regeneration. BMSCs could express the CCR2 receptor, but lentivirus-transfected BMSCs could express more CCR2. The BMSCs modified by CCR2 showed strong migration ability. At 72 h after partial hepatectomy, compared with KM-BMSCs group, the liver index of the KM-BMSCs-CCR2 group was higher, the liver tissue structure was more normal, and the levels of ALT and AST were lower. Expression of the Rho/ROCK signalling pathway proteins increased in the liver of the KM-BMSCs-CCR2 group, while migration ability of BMSCs decreased after treatment with the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632. In summary, this study suggested that the expression of CCR2 on BMSCs enhanced their targeted migration to the liver of partially hepatectomized mice and promoted liver regeneration. The Rho/ROCK signalling pathway plays an important role in the homing of BMSCs.
The role of nutrition in prevention and supportive therapy of equine asthma
Authors: PIECUCH ALEKSANDRA , CYWIŃSKA ANNA
Published: April 2022

Equine asthma and particularly severe equine asthma are commonly diagnosed diseases in adult horses. Exacerbations are triggered mostly by inhalation of environmental allergens that are most commonly found in hay, but also in other feed and bedding. The disease is incurable, so the use of all potentially helpful methods is required. The diet is a modifiable environmental factor that has a significant impact on the homeostasis of the organism. The aim of the study was to analyze selected components of the diet that could be useful in prevention and supportive therapy of equine asthma. Taking into account the nature of the disease, as well as the medical history and clinical condition of the patient, the effects of treatment can be improved by selecting appropriate feed and supplements. The most important components of a diet suitable for asthmatic horses include high quality, not dusty hay or haylage, antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.
O MERCADO DE ÓLEOS ESSENCIAIS NO BRASIL E NO MUNDO NA ÚLTIMA DÉCADA
Authors: Bizzo Humberto , Rezende Claudia
Published: April 2022

THE MARKET OF ESSENTIAL OILS IN BRAZIL AND IN THE WORLD IN THE LAST DECADE. The international trade of essential oils accounted for more than US$ 10 billion in 2021, with a growing tendence. USA, China, India, France and Brazil are the main global players. Reliable and comprehensive market data, however, is hard to obtain. Apart from a few government databases dealing with import/export values, information regarding local (national/internal) production and consumption as well as market trends, when available, are for sale, and expensive. Data from the global and Brazilian markets in the last decade were gathered anddiscussed in this review, with highlights on the balance of trade and the main oils produced in Brazil. As a megadiverse country, opportunities for new essential oils from Brazil do exist, but several obstacles must be overcome, such as legislation compliance, quality, supply and safety assurance, so that the market can be conquered.
Supervision of Group Counseling Practicum with Multiple Supervision Models: Opinions of Master Students
Authors: Yıldırım-kurtuluş Hacer , Kalay Usta Tuba , Uzun Gülgün
Published: April 2022

This study aims to examine the opinions and remarks of the master students on multiple supervision models of group counseling. Five counselors, who are master students in Psychological Counseling and Guidance department of a state university in Istanbul attended to this study. Results of the content analysis yielded that counselors had positive emotions, such as excitement, happiness, and trust related to peer, group and triple supervision in group counseling at the beginning of the process and positive thoughts and emotions about working with peer supervisor. The counselors considered experienced supervisors, easily accessible peer supervisors, and supportive functions, friendly and sincere attitudes of peer supervisors as advantages. Counselors seem to be greatly satisfied with supervisor and peer supervisors, positive about working again with the same supervisors in triadic and peer supervision future experience. However, counselors regarded inexperienced peers as a disadvantage. On the other hand, there were counselors who think that the characteristics of the supervisor and peer supervisors, such as their age, gender, appearance, have a positive effect on the process, as well as those who think that this has no effect. The needs and suggestions of the psychological counselors regarding the process are related to the content and the duration. For the ideal supervision environment, psychological counselors think that the supportive attitudes and rapid feedback of the supervisor are important. Based on these implications, it is thought that the supervision models discussed in this study will make an important contribution to the programs for training leaders in group counseling.
Phytochemical Compounds Loaded to Nanocarriers as Potential Therapeutic
Substances for Alzheimer’s Disease-Could They be Effective?
Authors: Polat Derya Çiçek , Karadağ Ayşe Esra , Köprülü Rabia Edibe Parlar , Karantas Ioannis D. , Mutlu Gökçe , Çağlar Emre Şefik , Okur Mehmet Evren , Okur Neslihan Üstündağ , Siafaka Panoraia I.
Published: April 2022

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for a high percentage of dementia cases in elderly individuals. This
type of brain disease is caused by damage to the brain cells affecting the ability of the patients to communicate,
as well as their thinking, behavior, and feelings. Although numerous research laboratories focus on advancements
in treating Alzheimer’s disease, the currently approved pharmacological approaches seem to only alleviate
the symptoms. Consequently, there is an urgent need for alternative pharmacological options that can prevent
the progressive impairment of neurons. Natural substances were used in ancient times to treat various disorders
given their biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. Besides,
their cost-effectiveness and accessibility to anyone who needs them are their most significant characteristics.
Therefore, the possible use of phytochemical compounds for the possible management or even prevention
of Alzheimer’s disease is currently under investigation. This review article summarizes the present status of
Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and underlying mechanisms, the potential phytochemicals and their carriers,
along with future perspectives. In the future, natural substances can play a role as an adjunct therapy for neurodegenerative
forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
The Potential of Probiotics for Treating Skin Disorders: A Concise Review
Authors: Khameneh Bahman , Kianmehr Shadi , Jahani Maryam , Moazzen Nasrin , Ahanchian Hamid
Published: April 2022

Probiotics are defined as “live microorganisms that confer a health benefit on the host
when administered adequately.” In recent years, the cosmetic industry has tried to develop many
products classified as probiotics. They can exert their benefits at the skin level because of their favorite
properties, and they could prevent and treat skin diseases and represent an emerging area for
skin health. The antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties make them promising candidates to
target skin disorders including acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis and aid wound healing. The
scientific reports show that specific probiotic strains can modulate cutaneous microflora, skin immune
system, lipid barrier, and skin health preservation. This review summarizes the most relevant
evidence from scientific literature concerning potential topical applications of probiotics in dermatology.
Altogether, the evidence reported here affords the possibility of designing new strategies
based on a topical approach to prevent and treat cutaneous disorders.
Antifungal Biofilm Strategies: A Less Explored Area in Wound Management
Authors: Mirza Mohd Aamir , Aggarwal Geeta , Bharti Shilpa , Zakir Foziyah
Published: April 2022

Background:

The treatment of wound-associated infections has always remained a challenge
for clinicians, with the major deterring factor being microbial biofilms, majorly bacterial or
fungal. Biofilm infections are becoming a global concern owing to resistance to antimicrobials.
Various fungal pathogens form fungal biofilms, namely Candida sp., Aspergillus fumigates,
Trichosporon sp., Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Cryptococcus neoformans, among others. The rising
cases of fungal biofilm resistance add to the burden of wound care. Additionally, with an increase in
the number of surgical procedures, transplantation, and the exponential use of medical devices, the
fungal bioburden is rising.

Objectives:

The review discusses the methods of biofilm formation and the resistance mechanisms
against conventional treatments. The potential of novel delivery strategies and the mechanisms involved
therein are also highlighted. Further, the prospects of nanotechnology-based medical devices
to combat fungal biofilm resistance have been explored. Some clinical trials and up-to-date patent
technologies to eradicate biofilms are also mentioned.

Conclusion:

Due to the many challenges faced in preventing/eradicating biofilms, only a handful of
approaches have made it to the market. Eradication of fungal biofilms are a fragmentary area that
needs further exploration.
Hyperthermia-sensitive Liposomes Containing Brucea Javanica Oil for Synergistic Photothermal-/Chemo-Therapy in Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Huang Yan , Zhang Qianying , Feng Peipei , Li Weihuan , Li Xiuru , Li Yongjie , Zhang Di
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

High mortality and limited therapeutic efficacy of clinical treatment make breast cancer a stubborn disease in women. The hypovascular issue is the main challenge needed to be overcome in breast cancer treatment.

Method:

For this purpose, hyperthermia-sensitive liposomes containing indocyanine green (ICG) and brucea javanica oil (BJO) (LP(BJO/ICG)) were constructed for near-infrared (NIR) laser-induced photothermal- /chemo-antitumor therapy. ICG, an FDA-approved photothermal agent, was employed in this study to perform photothermal therapy (PTT) effect as well as relieve hypovascular conditions in breast cancer tissue.

Result:

BJO triggered release from the hyperthermia-sensitive LP (BJO/ICG) due to disassembly of liposomes under the PTT effect caused by ICG under NIR laser irradiation. It was found that mice in LP (BJO/ICG) group showed the slowest tumor growth under NIR laser irradiation, illustrating the strongest antitumor effect among all groups.

Conclusion:

This responsive-release drug delivery platform can be a promising candidate for the treatment of breast cancer.
Potential Clinical Role of Prokineticin 2 (PK2) in Neurodegenerative
Diseases
Authors: Severini Cinzia , Maftei Daniela , Schirinzi Tommaso , Mercuri Nicola B. , Lattanzi Roberta
Published: April 2022

The role of the immune system in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease
(AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) has become clear in recent decades, as evidenced by the
presence of activated microglia and astrocytes and numerous soluble mediators in the brain and peripheral
tissues of affected patients. Among inflammatory mediators, chemokines play a central role
in neuroinflammation due to their dual function as chemoattractants for immune cells and molecular
messengers in crosstalk among CNS-resident cells. The chemokine Bv8/Prokineticin 2 (PK2) has
recently emerged as an important player in many age-related and chronic diseases that are either
neurodegenerative or systemic. In this perspective paper, we briefly discuss the role that PK2 and its
cognate receptors play in AD and PD animal models and in patients. Given the apparent changes in
PK2 blood levels in both AD and PD patients, the potential clinical value of PK2 either as a disease
biomarker or as a therapeutic target for these disorders is discussed.
Sulfonamide a Valid Scaffold for Antioxidant Drug Development
Authors: Egbujor Melford Chuka , Garrido Jorge , Borges Fernanda , Saso Luciano
Published: April 2022

Like the well-known sulfa drugs, Sulfonamides are ascribed to a myriad of biological activities, including antioxidant activity. In fact, several tertiary sulfonamides, particularly N, Ndisubstituted analogues, are recognized as antioxidants that can prevent or minimize oxidative damage associated with several oxidative-stress-related diseases. The structural diversity of this class of compounds paved the way for drug discovery programs aimed at finding therapeutic agents. Attributes such as low-cost synthetic procedures, easy accessibility of reagents, and a broad spectrum of biological activities made sulfonamides and derivatives excellent candidates for synthesizing chemical libraries with structural diversity. Sulfonamide-based drugs are most of the sulfur-containing drugs approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although sulfonamide derivatives have been extensively exploited as antibacterial agents, their therapeutic potential as antioxidants is relatively underexplored despite the prevalence of oxidative stress-mediated diseases and the urgent need for new and more effective antioxidant drugs. Some sulfonamide derivatives were shown to activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), the main regulator of the endogenous antioxidant response, a critical process used by cells in response to oxidative stress. The antioxidant role of sulfonamides and derivatives as Nrf2 activators is also reviewed. The antioxidant mechanism of action of sulfonamides has not been fully clarified, but as they have antioxidant properties, it is a subject worthy of in-depth study. The present review is focused on sulfonamides and derivatives as potential antioxidants along the period 2013-2021 and intends to stimulate research in the area.
A Review on Synthetic Strategies for Useful Oxadiazole Derivatives in
Psychological Disorders
Authors: Saxena Shivani , Kumar Rajnish , Mazumder Avijit , Kumari Sunita , Sharma Divya , Joshi Sagar , Sharma Vikas
Published: April 2022

Oxadiazole is a five-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring having two nitrogen and one
oxygen atom. Various isomeric forms have been reported for oxadiazole, such as 1,3,4-oxadiazole,
1,2,4-oxadiazole, 1,2,5-oxadiazole, etc. Currently, a considerable population worldwide is facing several
mental problems due to a competitive lifestyle. The present status of available medicines do not
promise complete cure without any adverse effects. Therefore, these disorders are continuously challenging
the researchers to come up with new molecules with superior efficacy and minimum side effects.
All the isomeric forms of oxadiazole have numerous potential in treating various mental problems
such as Parkinsonism, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and epileptic disorders. In this review article,
we summarize several recently reported synthetic strategies for preparing different oxadiazole and its
derivatives which were found effective in psychological disorders. The researchers will be able to obtain
the necessary information (synthesis strategies) through this article for their future research on
new molecules containing the oxadiazole moiety. Furthermore, this review article will help the researchers
in the fight against mental disorders and highlights possible molecules for the treatment of
mentally challenged people.