bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ENPP1 Is Correlated With Insulin Resistance and Lipid Molecules in PCOS Rats
Authors: Xia Jing , Yang Yiqing , Yang Zhe , Wu Gengxiang , Yang Jing 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
BackgroundPrevious studies have shown that ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) may be an inhibitor of the insulin signalling pathway, and insulin resistance (IR) is believed to be the core mechanism in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This study aimed to investigate the expression of ENPP1 in different tissues of PCOS rats and to analyse its potential role in the pathophysiology of PCOS.MethodsEighteen 23-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into the PCOS and control groups (n= 9/group). Serum, ovaries, skeletal muscle, and subcutaneous and visceral fat were collected after 20 days. Pathological examination, immunofluorescence and western blotting analyses were performed. Serum indicator levels were measured, including ENPP1, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FINS), free fatty acids (FFAs), adiponectin (ADP), leptin, and serum lipids. ResultsThe levels of ENPP1, T, MCP-1, FBG, FINS, homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR), FFAs, leptin, cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly higher in the PCOS group, while ADP and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were significantly lower than in the control group. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis showed that ENPP1 was correlated with T, MCP-1, HOMA-IR, FFAs, leptin, serum lipids and ADP. The mRNA levels of ENPP1, BAX, and IRS1 were higher in the ovaries, skeletal muscle, subcutaneous fat, and visceral fat of PCOS rats, and the protein expression of ENPP1 was significantly higher in the ovaries. ConclusionENPP1 is highly associated with IR and lipid metabolism-related molecules, which may promote pathophysiological changes in PCOS.
Sulfate enhances drought tolerance in foxtail millet seedlings by promoting ABA biosynthesis and inducing stomatal closure
Authors: Han Yansha , Gong Dianqing , Yi Huilan 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background and aims

Sulfate, the main source of sulfur in natural soil, is critical for plant growth and development, as well as plant responses to environmental stress, including drought. However, our understanding of the detailed mechanisms of sulfate-modulated drought tolerance in crop plants is far from complete. In the present study, by using foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.), an emerging model crop, we investigated the possible mechanisms involved in sulfate-induced crop tolerance to drought stress.
Methods

A combination of biochemical and molecular approaches, as well as stomatal apertures analyses were applied to determine the effect of sulfate application on sulfur assimilation, ABA biosynthesis, and stomatal movement.
Results

Upon drought exposure, sulfate (4 mM) pretreatment significantly alleviated the decrease in relative water content in foxtail millet leaves. Exogenous sulfate increased endogenous sulfate content and markedly enhanced the enzyme activity of sulfite reductase (SiR) and O-acetylserine(thiol)lyase (OASTL), as well as levels of their transcripts, leading to an increase in cysteine (Cys) production in drought-stressed leaves. Furthermore, in comparison with drought stress alone, sulfate application significantly upregulated the transcriptional expression of SiABA3 and SiAAO3, which contributed to the increased ABA levels in the leaves of drought-stressed foxtail millet seedlings. Moreover, the addition of sulfate decreased stomatal aperture, thus resulting in reduced leaf water loss in foxtail millet exposed to drought.
Conclusion

Our data suggest that sulfate application was able to promote drought tolerance of foxtail millet plants, at least partially by increasing ABA biosynthesis and triggering stomatal closure.
Thidiazuron, a phenyl-urea cytokinin, inhibits ergosterol synthesis and attenuates biofilm formation of Candida albicans
Authors: Pandurangan Harikrishnan , Arayambath Balamani , Jayaraman Vijay Karthik , Ekambaram Kanimozhi , Ahmed Emad A , Senthilkumar Palanisamy , Ibrahim Hairul-Islam Mohamed , Thirugnanasambantham Krishnaraj 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal human fungal pathogen that colonizes and develops dental biofilm which cause Oral candidiosis. This study investigates the effects of a new molecule Thidiazuron against the growth and biofilm formation properties of C. albicans. This study applied computational and in vitro approaches such as broth microdilution, SEM, time-kill dynamics, crystal violet assay, XTT reduction assay, ergosterol quantification and quantitative RT PCR analysis of gene expression to validate the growth and biofilm inhibitory potential of thidiazuron against C. albicans. Preliminary molecular docking study revealed potential interaction between thidiazuron and amino acids residues of CYP51. Further in vitro anti-fungal susceptibility test, SEM and time kill analysis revealed anti-fungal potency of thidiazuron in dose and time dependent passion. Crystal violet staining, XTT reduction assay and Acridine Orange staining visually confirmed biofilm inhibitory potential of thidiazuron. Gene expression study shows that thidiazuron treatment down regulated the expression of genes involved in ergosterol synthesis, cell adhesion and hyphae development in C. albicans. This study identified thidiazuron as CYP51 inhibitor and a new antibiofilm agent against C. albicans.
Effect of low sintering temperature on the structural and magnetic properties of M-type strontium hexaferrite
Authors: RANA KUSH 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
A pure M-type strontium hexaferrite with nominal composition SrFe12O19 was prepared via modified conventional citrate precursor method. The basic idea of investigation was to improve the quality of hexagonal ferrite without high temperature sintering as these ferrites are generally known for high temperature sintering techniques. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTA) of powdered sample was carried out to identify the desired crystallization point suitable for the formation of M-phase. After dividing the sample into two equal parts, the prepared sample was sintered at two different temperatures, 800˚C and 910˚C. The properties of the material were investigated via using important characterization techniques, XRD, FESEM, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy (RS) and VSM respectively. The XRD confirmed the formation of M-phase along with some impurities of Fe2O3 and these results were strongly supported via both FTIR and RS. On increasing the sintering temperature, the average crystallite size was found to increase from 25nm to 33nm. The FESEM analysis confirmed the formation of densely packed grains some hexagonal platelets along with agglomerates. The magnetic parameters saturation magnetization (Ms), magnetic coericivity (Hc) and squarenes ratio (SQR) were investigated by using VSM. The value of Ms for ferrite sample sintered at 910˚C was found to be 92emu/g but at the same time the Hc value was found in the range of few hundreds of Oestered. This kind of behavior was due to the smaller grain size and the presence of impurity phase which was totally against the nature strontium hexaferrite. Such properties of M-type hexagonal ferrite was found very rare and procured to be an excellent candidate for switching devices, recording media, high frequency applications and many more.
Functional analysis of the genotypic differences in response to calcareous-induced iron deficiency in pea plants (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Barhoumi Sameh , Ellouzi Hasna , KROUMA Abdelmajid 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background
Lime-induced iron deficiency in Pea plants is a major nutritional disorder causing severe plant growth and yield reduction in calcareous soils of Tunisia. Other the chemical fertilization for iron chlorosis correction, the exploration of the genotypic differences in response to this constraint remains the most efficient approach due to its coast, environmental benefits, and sustainability. This approach allows as to screen tolerant genotypes and identify useful traits of tolerance.
Results
calcareous-induced iron deficiency reduced SPAD index, plant growth, net photosynthesis, and tissues Fe concentration against a significant stimulation of the oxidative stress indicators, H2O2 and Malondialdehyde (MDA). In the same time, we have reported significant induction of SOD activity in shoots and CAT activity in roots of the genotype Alexandra (ne clear behavior observed in the other genotypes). Fe use efficiency increased on calcareous soil and clearly discriminates the studied genotypes.
Conclusion
Genotypic differences were observed, and Alex was found to be the most tolerant. This genotype protect its tissues against oxidative stress by stimulating SOD activity in shoots and CAT içn roots, and expressed significant efficiency of Fe uptake and use on calcareous soil. The Fe use efficiency for photosynthesis and for SOD and CAT activities clearly discriminates the studied genotypes and can be used as a useful trait for further screening programs.
Next-generation sequencing identifies seasonal and geographical differences in the ruminal community composition of sika deer (Cervus nippon) in Japan
Authors: Kawarai Shinpei , Taira Kensuke , Shimono Ayako , Takeshita Tsuyoshi , Takeda Shiro , Mizunoya Wataru , Moriya Shigeharu , Minami Masato 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
To understand the nutritional conditions of culled wild sika deer (Cervus nippon) and their suitability as a pet food component, we compared the ruminal community compositions of deer living in different food habitats (Nagano winter, Nagano spring, and Hokkaido winter) using next-generation sequencing. Twenty-nine sika deer were sampled. Alpha and beta diversity metrics determined via 16S and 18S ssrRNA amplicon-seq analysis showed compositional differences. Prevotella, Entodinium, and Piromyces were the dominant genera of bacteria, fungi and protozoa, respectively. Moreover, 66 bacterial taxa, 44 eukaryotic taxa, and 46 chloroplastic taxa were shown to differ significantly among the groups by linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe). Total RNA-seq analysis showed 397 significantly differentially expressed transcripts (q < 0.05), of which 258 were correlated with bacterial amplicon-seq results (Pearson correlation coefficient > 0.7). The amplicon-seq results indicated that deciduous broadleaf trees and SAR were enriched in Nagano, whereas graminoids, Firmicutes and fungi were enriched in Hokkaido. The ruminal microbial community were corresponded with different food habits, related to the severe snow conditions in Hokkaido in winter and the richness of plants with leaves and acorns in Nagano winter and spring. These findings are useful for understanding the nutritional conditions of wild sika deer.
Absence of rapid T cell control corresponds with delayed viral clearance in hospitalised COVID-19 patients
Authors: Zlei Mihaela , Sidorov Igor A. , Joosten Simone , Heemskerk Mirjam , Myeni Sebenzile K. , Pothast Cilia R. , de Brouwer Caroline S. , Zanden A. Linda Boomaars-van der , Meijgaarden Kirsta E van , Wessels Els , Janse Jacqueline J. , Goeman Jelle , Cobbaert Christa , Kroes Aloys C.M. , Cannegieter Suzanne , Roestenberg Meta , Visser Leo , Kikkert Marjolein , Feltkamp Mariet , Arbous Sesmu M. , Staal Frank , Ottenhoff Tom , Dongen Jacques van , Roukens Anna H.E. , de Vries Jutte J.C. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 viral load is associated with disease severity. A better understanding of immunological mechanisms involved in viral clearance is crucial to guide new therapeutic strategies. Here, we studied the timing of viral clearance in relation to 122 immune parameters in 150 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Delayed viral clearance was associated with more severe disease, which occurred after the virus had been cleared in most cases. Paradoxically, delayed viral clearance was associated with over time higher maximum levels of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG, IgA, and neutralizing antibodies, increased numbers of eosinophils, monocytes, and pro-inflammatory cyto-/chemokines. In contrast, early viral clearance and less critical illness correlated with higher levels of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells. Collectively, our data show that absence of rapid T cell control corresponds with delayed clearance and aberrant antibody and cytokine profiles. Viral clearance often precedes critical illness, which suggests immunopathology as underlying mechanism. These data can guide treatment strategies.
Neuroblastoma in Children: Intraoperative Goal Directed Therapy, Intraoperative And Postoperative Outcomes
Authors: Kumba Claudine 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Neuroblastoma is the most common tumor in children. Anesthetic management can be challenging due to the localization and catecholamine-secreting characteristics of the tumor. We undertook a secondary analysis in a previous study to describe patients who underwent neuroblastoma resection.Objective: To describe intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent neuroblastoma resection and to propose optimal intraoperative management for postoperative outcome improvement.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of children who underwent neuroblastoma resection in the initial retrospective study.Results: There were 16 patients with a mean age of 39.3±22.1 months. Seven (43.8%) patients presented with intraoperative or postoperative complications. One (6.3%) patient had intraoperative broncholaryngospasm and difficult intubation. Two (12.5%) patients had intraoperative hemorrhagic shock. One patient (6.3%) had postoperative renal failure. Two patients (12.5%) had postoperative respiratory failure, and 3 (18.8%) patients had postoperative cardiocirculatory failure. One (6.3%) had postoperative pulmonary sepsis and septicemia. Thirteen (81.3%) patients were intraoperatively transfused. There was no in-hospital mortality.Conclusion: Neuroblastoma surgery can be a challenging situation where cardiovascular instability, high blood loss and transfusion requirements can be encountered. Consequently, preoperative preparation and optimal intraoperative management with validated means in children are necessary for a better postoperative outcome in this surgical setting.
Effect of long-term adjuvant temozolomide chemotherapy on primary glioblastoma patient survival
Authors: Huang Bin , Yu Zuan , Liang Risheng 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Objective

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant central nervous system (CNS) tumor. The Stupp regimen is the standard treatment, although the optimal number of temozolomide (TMZ) treatment cycles remains controversial. We compared the effects of standard 6 cycles versus > 6 cycles of TMZ chemotherapy post-surgery with concurrent chemoradiotherapy on primary GBM patient survival.
Patients and Methods:

We performed a single center retrospective study of GBM patients that underwent total resection, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and at least 6 cycles of adjuvant TMZ chemotherapy from June 2011 to August 2018. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on adjuvant TMZ treatment plan: Group A(n = 27): standard 6-cycle adjuvant TMZ therapy and Group B(n = 26): >6 cycles of adjuvant TMZ therapy. Primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Continuous variables were analyzed by ANOVA, and the Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate PFS and OS. Univariate and multivariate COX analyses determined correlation between survival rates and covariates. We used The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) to assess patients' neurocognitive function and quality of life.
Results

After follow-up, median PFS was 15 months in in Group A (95%CI 9.5–20.5) and 20.1 months in Group B (95%CI 15.9–24.4). Group A median OS was 19.4 months (95%CI 15.5–23.2), compared to 25.6 months in Group B (95%CI 20.4–30.8). The 2-year survival rate of Groups A and B was 36% was 66%, respectively (P = 0.02). and 5-year survival was 7% in both. Multivariate COX regression analysis showed association between patient PFS and long-period adjuvant chemotherapy, but not OS. There were no significant difference in disability or quality of life during treatment with Stupp protocol, but differences in MMSE and KPS were in favour of the Groups B after year 1 of the treatment (P < 0.05).
Conclusions

Long-term adjuvant TMZ chemotherapy benefits PFS and 2-year survival rate,Long-term adjuvant TMZ chemotherapy benefits PFS and 2-year survival rate. This could improve quality of life in survivorship,but not highly prognosticate for OS. We do not suggest prolonging TMZ maintenance therapy beyond six cycles in patients with glioblastoma after total resection.
Endometrial thickness is a limiting factor in achieving a successful pregnancy in infertile women undergoing IVF/ICSI cycle.
Authors: Khan Haroon Latif , Bhatti Shahzad , Samina  , Hamayun Humaira , Enver Farah , Hassan Zahira 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Embryo transfer into the uterus during IVF/ICSI treatment is followed by embryo implantation, which depends on the receptivity of endometrium and is a pre-requisite for the initiation of a successful pregnancy. The endometrium proliferates under the hormonal influence (estrogen and progesterone), which is reflected by its thickness which is measurable by transvaginal ultrasonic scanning (TVS). The thickness of the endometrium less than 8 mm has been linked with implantation failure.11 Endometrial thickness of 9-14 mm on the day of progesterone supplementation has been shown to have a higher implantation rate. Thus, the implantation potential of a good embryo remains low during IVF treatment despite ovarian stimulation methods of assisted fertilization and improved culture condition.Objectives: This study was planned to determine the impact of endometrial thickness on ET and pregnancy rate in Pakistani patients undergoing IVF/ ICSI.Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study conducted at a private fertility clinic (Lahore institute of fertility and endocrinology, LIFE) in Lahore, Pakistan, from January 2015 to December 2015. In this study, all those cases were included that reached oocytes pickup and embryo transfer (ET). Two protocols, agonist and antagonist, were used. In all cases, human menopausal gonadotrophin (hMG) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were used for stimulation. Follicles development was monitored; at least 3 follicles were reached at the diameter of ≥16mm.Results: Thickness of endometrium on decision day was calculated at various ranges concerning both groups and find pregnancy rates. When endometrial thickness was ≤ 6mm, PR was 2.22%, 7mm pregnancy rate (PR) was 1.11%, 8 mm PR was 3.33%, 9mm PR was 17.78%, 10mm PR was 33.33%, 11mm PR was 32.22%, and more than 11 mm PR was 10%. So, PR was higher from 2.22% to 10%. The overall pregnancy rate was 45.45%.Conclusion: The study concluded that endometrial thickness has significant effects on embryo transfer and outcomes.
Exploring the effectiveness of in-situ sodium ferrate (VI) during the bench-scale of manganese removal from raw water collected from a South African WTP
Authors: Munyengabe Alexis , Zvinowanda Caliphs , Masindi Vhahangwele 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Manganese (Mn) is an essential element for human body and several enzymes rely on its redox properties. Its elevated concentrations in water can be toxic to humans, stain porcelains and can generate an undesirable taste in beverages. Several methods including adsorption, biologically active filtration oxidation and precipitation have been used to reduce it from water. Unfortunately, most of these methods have disadvantages of generating harmful by-products. Ferrate (VI) has been considered as a supplant to common oxidants during the treatment of drinking water. It has main advantages such as production of ferric ion, high oxidation potential, which may support coagulation, and the lack of significant halogenated by-product generation. However, this study aimed at exploring the effectiveness of in-situ liquid sodium ferrate (Na2FeO4) during the removal of Mn from raw water collected from Cullinan water treatment plant (CWTP) at the bench-scale. Na2FeO4 was produced using a wet oxidation method. The treatment of raw water collected from CWTP presented the removal percentage of Mn ranging between 82.70 and 99.20%. The pH of the drinking water sample raised from 7.25 to 10.97 after treatment. The treatability index (TI) was also studied. Only the TI of pH value was less than one. The TI results indicated high value of EC and authors would like to replace sodium by calcium in the ferrate product to reduce EC of the treated water and recommend the application of FeO42- ions for the treatment of raw water in a full-scale as it showed to be a promising a green oxidant.
Criminological analysis of criminal offenses against the environment
Authors: Lukashevich Сергей Юрьевич , Shevchenko Natela 
Published: August 2021

The article subjected to criminological analysis of criminal offenses against the environment. The study of statistical information of the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine, contained in the Uniform reports on criminal offenses for 2013-2020 (Form 1: approved by Order of the State Prosecutor's Office of Ukraine dated 23.10.2012 in coordination with the State Statistics Committee of Ukraine) and other sources of empirical information shows a tendency of growing level of criminal offenses against the environment on the background of general decrease of crime level in Ukraine. The structural elements and dynamics of criminal offenses against the environment are provided. The criminal offenses against the environment are noted as a serious problem in modern society. Basing on the considered material the authors conclude that criminal offences against the environment have a tendency of steady increasing, and the necessity of this phenomenon to be resolutely struggled. The authors emphasize the problem of the latency of crimes in studying area.