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Alam M, Ping K, Danilson M, Mikli V, Käärik M, Leis J, Aruväli J, Paiste P, Rähn M, Sammelselg V, Tammeveski K, Haller S, Kramm UI, Starkov P, Kongi N. Iron Triad-Based Bimetallic M-N-C Nanomaterials as Highly Active Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysts. ACS Appl Energy Mater 2024; 7:4076-4087. [PMID: 38756864 PMCID: PMC11095250 DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.4c00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The use of precious metal electrocatalysts in clean electrochemical energy conversion and storage applications is widespread, but the sustainability of these materials, in terms of their availability and cost, is constrained. In this research, iron triad-based bimetallic nitrogen-doped carbon (M-N-C) materials were investigated as potential bifunctional electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The synthesis of bimetallic FeCo-N-C, CoNi-N-C, and FeNi-N-C catalysts involved a precisely optimized carbonization process of their respective metal-organic precursors. Comprehensive structural analysis was undertaken to elucidate the morphology of the prepared M-N-C materials, while their electrocatalytic performance was assessed through cyclic voltammetry and rotating disk electrode measurements in a 0.1 M KOH solution. All bimetallic catalyst materials demonstrated impressive bifunctional electrocatalytic performance in both the ORR and the OER. However, the FeNi-N-C catalyst proved notably more stable, particularly in the OER conditions. Employed as a bifunctional catalyst for ORR/OER within a customized zinc-air battery, FeNi-N-C exhibited a remarkable discharge-charge voltage gap of only 0.86 V, alongside a peak power density of 60 mW cm-2. The outstanding stability of FeNi-N-C, operational for about 55 h at 2 mA cm-2, highlights its robustness for prolonged application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboob Alam
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn
University of Technology, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
- Department
of Chemistry, Catalysts and Electrocatalysts Group, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Kefeng Ping
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn
University of Technology, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
| | - Mati Danilson
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn 19086, Estonia
| | - Valdek Mikli
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn 19086, Estonia
| | - Maike Käärik
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Jaan Leis
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Jaan Aruväli
- Institute
of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University
of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Päärn Paiste
- Institute
of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University
of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Mihkel Rähn
- Institute
of Physics, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | | | - Kaido Tammeveski
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Steffen Haller
- Department
of Chemistry, Catalysts and Electrocatalysts Group, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Ulrike I. Kramm
- Department
of Chemistry, Catalysts and Electrocatalysts Group, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Pavel Starkov
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn
University of Technology, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
| | - Nadezda Kongi
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
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Timpmann S, Rips L, Olveti I, Mooses M, Mölder H, Varblane A, Lille HR, Gapeyeva H, Ööpik V. Seasonal Variation in Vitamin D Status Does Not Interfere with Improvements in Aerobic and Muscular Endurance in Conscripts during Basic Military Training. Nutrients 2024; 16:1306. [PMID: 38732553 PMCID: PMC11085734 DOI: 10.3390/nu16091306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Considering a lack of respective data, the primary objective of this study was to assess whether seasonal variation in vitamin D status (D-status) affects the extent of improvement in physical performance (PP) in conscripts during basic military training (BMT). D-status, PP and several blood parameters were measured repeatedly in conscripts whose 10-week BMT started in July (cohort S-C; n = 96) or in October (cohort A-C; n = 107). D-status during BMT was higher in S-C compared to A-C (overall serum 25(OH)D 61.4 ± 16.1 and 48.5 ± 20.7 nmol/L, respectively; p < 0.0001). Significant (p < 0.05) improvements in both aerobic and muscular endurance occurred in both cohorts during BMT. Pooled data of the two cohorts revealed a highly reliable (p = 0.000) but weak (R2 = 0.038-0.162) positive association between D-status and PP measures both at the beginning and end of BMT. However, further analysis showed that such a relationship occurred only in conscripts with insufficient or deficient D-status, but not in their vitamin D-sufficient companions. Significant (p < 0.05) increases in serum testosterone-to-cortisol ratio and decreases in ferritin levels occurred during BMT. In conclusion, a positive association exists between D-status and PP measures, but seasonal variation in D-status does not influence the extent of improvement in PP in conscripts during BMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Timpmann
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 18 Ülikooli St., 50090 Tartu, Estonia; (S.T.); (M.M.)
| | - Leho Rips
- Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 1a L. Puusepa St., 50406 Tartu, Estonia;
- Department of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 18 Ülikooli St., 50090 Tartu, Estonia
- Centre of Military Disaster Medicine, Estonian National Defense College, 12 Riia St., 51010 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Indrek Olveti
- 2nd Infantry Brigade, Estonian Defense Forces, Sirgu Village, Luunja Parish, 62216 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Martin Mooses
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 18 Ülikooli St., 50090 Tartu, Estonia; (S.T.); (M.M.)
| | - Hanno Mölder
- Medical Centre of the 2nd Infantry Brigade CSS Battalion, Estonian Defense Forces, 3a Kose Road, 65603 Võru, Estonia;
| | - Ahti Varblane
- Joint Headquarters of the Estonian Defense Forces, 58 Juhkentali St., 15007 Tallinn, Estonia;
| | - Hele-Reet Lille
- Centre of Military Disaster Medicine, Estonian National Defense College, 12 Riia St., 51010 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Helena Gapeyeva
- Clinic of Medical Rehabilitation, II Rehabilitation Department, East Tallinn Central Hospital, 104 Pärnu St., 11312 Tallinn, Estonia;
| | - Vahur Ööpik
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 18 Ülikooli St., 50090 Tartu, Estonia; (S.T.); (M.M.)
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Koshovyi O, Komisarenko M, Osolodchenko T, Komissarenko A, Mändar R, Kõljalg S, Heinämäki J, Raal A. Eucalypt Extracts Prepared by a No-Waste Method and Their 3D-Printed Dosage Forms Show Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Activity. Plants (Basel) 2024; 13:754. [PMID: 38592748 PMCID: PMC10976152 DOI: 10.3390/plants13060754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The pharmaceutical industry usually utilizes either hydrophobic or hydrophilic substances extracted from raw plant materials to prepare a final product. However, the waste products from the plant material still contain biologically active components with the opposite solubility. The aim of this study was to enhance the comprehensive usability of plant materials by developing a new no-waste extraction method for eucalypt leaves and by investigating the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of eucalypt extracts and their 3D-printed dosage forms. The present extraction method enabled us to prepare both hydrophobic soft extracts and hydrophilic (aqueous) dry extracts. We identified a total of 28 terpenes in the hydrophobic soft extract. In the hydrophilic dry extract, a total of 57 substances were identified, and 26 of them were successfully isolated. The eucalypt extracts studied showed significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Corynebacterium diphtheriae gravis, and Corynebacterium diphtheriae mitis. The anti-inflammatory activity of the dry extract was studied using a formalin-induced-edema model in mice. The maximum anti-exudative effect of the dry extract was 61.5% at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Composite gels of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and eucalypt extract were developed, and the key process parameters for semi-solid extrusion (SSE) 3D printing of such gels were verified. The SSE 3D-printed preparations of novel synergistically acting eucalypt extracts could have uses in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory medicinal applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleh Koshovyi
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (O.K.); (J.H.)
- Pharmacognosy Department, The National University of Pharmacy, 53 Pushkinska St., 61002 Kharkiv, Ukraine; (M.K.); (A.K.)
| | - Mykola Komisarenko
- Pharmacognosy Department, The National University of Pharmacy, 53 Pushkinska St., 61002 Kharkiv, Ukraine; (M.K.); (A.K.)
| | - Tatyana Osolodchenko
- State Institution “I.Mechnikov Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine”, 14-16, Pushkinskaya St., 61057 Kharkov, Ukraine;
| | - Andrey Komissarenko
- Pharmacognosy Department, The National University of Pharmacy, 53 Pushkinska St., 61002 Kharkiv, Ukraine; (M.K.); (A.K.)
| | - Reet Mändar
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (R.M.); (S.K.)
| | - Siiri Kõljalg
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (R.M.); (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, United Laboratories, Tartu University Hospital, L. Puusepa 1a, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jyrki Heinämäki
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (O.K.); (J.H.)
| | - Ain Raal
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (O.K.); (J.H.)
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Siinor L, Ers H, Pikma P. Another Piece of the Ionic Liquid's Puzzle: Adsorption of Cl - Ions. J Phys Chem C Nanomater Interfaces 2024; 128:2722-2729. [PMID: 38379917 PMCID: PMC10877642 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.3c07991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Classical electrochemical and microscopy methods were used to characterize the interfacial processes of the adsorption of chloride ions from ionic liquids at the Bi(111) single crystal electrode. The mixture of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride was electrochemically characterized by using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. In situ scanning tunneling microscopy images showed the formation of superstructures at the electrode's surface over an extended period of time. The specific adsorption of chloride ions reaches an equilibrium state in a more viscous ionic liquid medium slower than in aqueous and organic solvents. Capacitance values increase considerably (also depending on alternative current frequency) at the potential region, where the specific adsorption of chloride ions with partial charge transfer occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liis Siinor
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Heigo Ers
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Piret Pikma
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
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Saar M, Vaikjärv R, Parm Ü, Kasenõmm P, Kõljalg S, Sepp E, Jaagura M, Salumets A, Štšepetova J, Mändar R. Unveiling the etiology of peritonsillar abscess using next generation sequencing. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2023; 22:98. [PMID: 37940951 PMCID: PMC10633907 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-023-00649-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a severe deep neck space infection with an insufficiently characterized bacterial etiology. We aimed to reveal the bacteria associated with PTA applying next generation sequencing (NGS). Tonsil biopsies and pus samples of 91 PTA patients were analysed applying NGS method. RESULTS Over 400 genera and 800 species belonging to 34 phyla were revealed. The most abundant species in both sample types were Streptococcus pyogenes, Fusobacterium necrophorum and Fusobacterium nucleatum. When present, S. pyogenes was normally a predominant species, although it was recovered as a minor population in some samples dominated by F. nucleatum and occasionally F. necrophorum. S. pyogenes and F. necrophorum were the predominant species (> 10% in a community) in 28 (31%) pus samples, while F. nucleatum in 21 (23%) and S. anginosus in 8 (9%) pus samples. We observed no substantial differences between the microbial findings in pus and tonsil biopsies. CONCLUSIONS The most probable causative agents of PTA according to our NGS-study include Streptococcus pyogenes, Fusobacterium necrophorum and Fusobacterium nucleatum. Some other streptococci (S. anginosus) and anaerobes (Prevotella, Porphyromonas) may contribute to the infection as well. Pus of the peritonsillar abscess is more representative specimen for microbiological examination than the tonsillar tissue. Our results are important in the context of optimizing the handling of the PTA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merili Saar
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Ülle Parm
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia
- Tartu Health Care Colleges, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Priit Kasenõmm
- Ear Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Siiri Kõljalg
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, United Laboratories, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Epp Sepp
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Madis Jaagura
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jelena Štšepetova
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Reet Mändar
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu, 50411, Estonia.
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.
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Pajuste FD, Remm M. GeneToCN: an alignment-free method for gene copy number estimation directly from next-generation sequencing reads. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17765. [PMID: 37853040 PMCID: PMC10584998 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44636-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomes exhibit large regions with segmental copy number variation, many of which include entire genes and are multiallelic. We have developed a computational method GeneToCN that counts the frequencies of gene-specific k-mers in FASTQ files and uses this information to infer copy number of the gene. We validated the copy number predictions for amylase genes (AMY1, AMY2A, AMY2B) using experimental data from digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) on 39 individuals and observed a strong correlation (R = 0.99) between GeneToCN predictions and experimentally determined copy numbers. An additional validation on FCGR3 genes showed a higher concordance for FCGR3A compared to two other methods, but reduced accuracy for FCGR3B. We further tested the method on three different genomic regions (SMN, NPY4R, and LPA Kringle IV-2 domain). Predicted copy number distributions of these genes in a set of 500 individuals from the Estonian Biobank were in good agreement with the previously published studies. In addition, we investigated the possibility to use GeneToCN on sequencing data generated by different technologies by comparing copy number predictions from Illumina, PacBio, and Oxford Nanopore data of the same sample. Despite the differences in variability of k-mer frequencies, all three sequencing technologies give similar predictions with GeneToCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny-Dhelia Pajuste
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, 23 Riia Str., 51010, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Maido Remm
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, 23 Riia Str., 51010, Tartu, Estonia
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Galimova E, Rätsep R, Traks T, Chernov A, Gaysina D, Kingo K, Kõks S. Polymorphisms in corticotrophin-releasing hormone-proopiomalanocortin (CRH-POMC) system genes: Neuroimmune contributions to psoriasis disease. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:2028-2040. [PMID: 37319102 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin is a target organ and source of the corticotropin-releasing hormone-proopiomelanocortin (CRH-POMC) system, operating as a coordinator and executor of responses to stress. Environmental stress exacerbates and triggers inflammatory skin diseases through modifying the cellular components of the immune system supporting the importance of CRH-POMC system in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The aim of this study was to analyse the association of CRH-POMC polymorphisms with psoriasis and evaluate transcript expression of lesional psoriatic and normal skin in RNA-seq data. METHODS Samples of 104 patients with psoriasis and 174 healthy controls were genotyped for 42 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CRH-POMC using Applied Biosystems SNPlex™ method. The transcript quantification was performed using Salmon software v1.3.0. RESULTS This study demonstrated the associations between melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) polymorphisms rs2228479, rs3212369, dopachrome tautomerase (DCT) polymorphisms rs7987802, rs2031526, rs9524501 and psoriasis in the Tatar population. Very strong association was evident for the SNP rs7987802 in the DCT gene (pc = 5.95е-006) in psoriasis patients. Additionally, the haplotype analysis provided AT DCT (rs7992630 and rs7987802) and AGA MC1R (rs3212358, 2228479 and 885479) haplotypes significantly associated (pc ˂ 0.05) with psoriasis in the Tatar population, supporting the involvement of DCT and MC1R to the psoriasis susceptibility. Moreover, MC1R-203 and DCT-201 expression levels were decreased in psoriasis lesional skin compared with healthy control skin. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to identify genetic variants of the MC1R and DCT genes significantly associated with psoriasis in Tatar population. Our results support potential roles of CRH-POMC system genes and DCT in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Galimova
- Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ranno Rätsep
- Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tanel Traks
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Alexandr Chernov
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Darya Gaysina
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Külli Kingo
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sulev Kõks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Ariko T, Kaart T, Ling K, Henno M, Jaakson H, Ots M. Possibility to Estimate Same Day Energy Status of Dairy Cows during First Half of Lactation by Non-Invasive Markers with Emphasis to Milk Fatty Acids. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2370. [PMID: 37508147 PMCID: PMC10376739 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Postpartum negative energy balance (NEB) is detrimental to cows and decreases profitability in dairy farming. The two origins of milk fatty acids (FA), de novo synthesized in the mammary gland and plasma lipids initially originating from feed, rumen microbes and the animal's adipose tissue, make milk FA candidates as possible NEB biomarkers. The aim of this study was to assess the possibility to predict EB in cows in the first 150 days of lactation with BCS, milk traits and selected individual milk FA and the ratios of blood-derived and de novo synthesized FA. The daily EB of Estonian Holstein cows (N = 30) was calculated based on body weights and BCS values. Milk FA were analyzed with gas chromatography. The variance partitioning analysis revealed that milk production traits, BCS at calving, FA ratios and days in milk accounted for 67.1% of the EB variance. Random forest analysis indicated the highest impact of the ratios C18:1cis9/C12:0+C14:0, C18:1cis9+C18:0/C12:0+C14:0, C18:1cis9/C14:0, C18:1cis9+C18:0/C14:0, C18:1cis9/sum C5:0 to C14:0, C18:1cis9+C18:0/sum C5:0 to C14:0 or C18:1cis9/C15:0. FA and their ratios alone explained 63.6% of the EB variance, indicating the possibility to use milk FA and their ratios as sole predictors for the energy status in dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiia Ariko
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tanel Kaart
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katri Ling
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Merike Henno
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Hanno Jaakson
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Meelis Ots
- Chair of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
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Tóth B, Amelin K, Rõõm T, Nagel U, Bauernfeind A, Tsurkan V, Prodan L, Krug von Nidda HA, Scheffler M, Kézsmárki I, Bordács S. Broadband magnetic resonance spectroscopy in MnSc[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text]. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11069. [PMID: 37422590 PMCID: PMC10329720 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37911-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent neutron scattering experiments suggested that frustrated magnetic interactions give rise to antiferromagnetic spiral and fractional skyrmion lattice phases in MnSc[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text] . Here, to trace the signatures of these modulated phases, we studied the spin excitations of MnSc[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text] by THz spectroscopy at 300 mK and in magnetic fields up to 12 T and by broadband microwave spectroscopy at various temperatures up to 50 GHz. We found a single magnetic resonance with frequency linearly increasing in field. The small deviation of the Mn[Formula: see text] ion g-factor from 2, g = 1.96, and the absence of other resonances imply very weak anisotropies and negligible contribution of higher harmonics to the spiral state. The significant difference between the dc magnetic susceptibility and the lowest-frequency ac susceptibility in our experiment implies the existence of mode(s) outside of the measured frequency windows. The combination of THz and microwave experiments suggests a spin gap opening below the ordering temperature between 50 GHz and 100 GHz.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boglárka Tóth
- Department of Physics, Institute of Physics, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3., H-1111 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kirill Amelin
- National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Toomas Rõõm
- National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Urmas Nagel
- National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Anastasia Bauernfeind
- 1. Physikalisches Institut, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Vladimir Tsurkan
- Experimental Physics V, Center for Electronic Correlations and Magnetism, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, 86159 Augsburg, Germany
- Institute of Applied Physics, Moldova State University, 5 Academiei Str., 2028 Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
| | - Lilian Prodan
- Experimental Physics V, Center for Electronic Correlations and Magnetism, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, 86159 Augsburg, Germany
- Institute of Applied Physics, Moldova State University, 5 Academiei Str., 2028 Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
| | - Hans-Albrecht Krug von Nidda
- Experimental Physics V, Center for Electronic Correlations and Magnetism, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, 86159 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Marc Scheffler
- 1. Physikalisches Institut, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - István Kézsmárki
- Experimental Physics V, Center for Electronic Correlations and Magnetism, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, 86159 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Sándor Bordács
- Department of Physics, Institute of Physics, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3., H-1111 Budapest, Hungary
- ELKH-BME Condensed Matter Research Group, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3., H-1111 Budapest, Hungary
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10
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Koort K, Sõsa K, Türk S, Lapp E, Talving E, Karits P, Rosenstein K, Jaagura M, Sekavin A, Sõritsa D, Haldre K, Karro H, Korrovits P, Salumets A, Mändar R. Lactobacillus crispatus-dominated vaginal microbiome and Acinetobacter-dominated seminal microbiome support beneficial ART outcome. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2023. [PMID: 37221898 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the considerable progress made in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the implantation rate of transferred embryos remains low and in many cases, the reasons for failure remain unclear. We aimed to determine the potential impact of female and male partners' reproductive tract microbiome composition on ART outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS The ART couples (n = 97) and healthy couples (n = 12) were recruited into the study. The smaller healthy group underwent a careful selection according to their reproductive and general health criteria. Both vaginal and semen samples were subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing to reveal the bacterial diversity and identify distinct microbial community types. Ethics statement The study was approved by the Ethics Review Committee on Human Research of Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia (protocol no. 193/T-16) on 31 May 2010. Participation in the research was voluntary. Written informed consent was obtained from all study participants. RESULTS The men with Acinetobacter-associated community who had children in the past, had the highest ART success rate (P < 0.05). The women with bacterial vaginosis vaginal microbiome community and with L. iners-predominant and L. gasseri-predominant microbiome had a lower ART success rate than women with the L. crispatus-predominant or the mixed lactic-acid-bacteria-predominant type (P < 0.05). The 15 couples where both partners had beneficial microbiome types had a superior ART success rate of 53%, when compared with the rest of the couples (25%; P = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS Microbiome disturbances in the genital tract of both partners tend to be associated with couple's infertility as well as lower ART success levels and may thus need attention before the ART procedure. The incorporation of genitourinary microbial screening as a part of the diagnostic evaluation process may become routine for ART patients if our results are confirmed by other studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kairi Koort
- School of Natural Sciences and Health, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristiina Sõsa
- School of Natural Sciences and Health, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Silver Türk
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eleri Lapp
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | - Karin Rosenstein
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Nova Vita Clinic, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Madis Jaagura
- Nova Vita Clinic, Tallinn, Estonia
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Aire Sekavin
- Women's Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Deniss Sõritsa
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Women's Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
- Elite Clinic, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kai Haldre
- West Tallinn Central Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
- East Tallinn Central Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Helle Karro
- Women's Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Paul Korrovits
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Andrological Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Reet Mändar
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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11
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Svedbom A, Borgstöm F, Hernlund E, Alekna V, Bianchi ML, Clark P, Diaz-Curiel M, Dimai HP, Jürisson M, Lesnyak O, McCloskey E, Sanders KM, Silverman S, Tamulaitiene M, Thomas T, Tosteson ANA, Jönsson B, Kanis JA. An experience- and preference-based EQ-5D-3L value set derived using 18 months of longitudinal data in patients who sustained a fracture: results from the ICUROS. Qual Life Res 2023; 32:1199-1208. [PMID: 36495384 PMCID: PMC10063467 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-022-03303-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION EQ-5D-3L preference-based value sets are predominately based on hypothetical health states and derived in cross-sectional settings. Therefore, we derived an experience-based value set from a prospective observational study. METHODS The International Costs and Utilities Related to Osteoporotic fractures Study (ICUROS) was a multinational study on fragility fractures, prospectively collecting EQ-5D-3L and Time trade-off (TTO) within two weeks after fracture (including pre-fracture recall), and at 4, 12, and 18 months thereafter. We derived an EQ-5D-3L value set by regressing the TTO values on the ten impairment levels in the EQ-5D-3L. We explored the potential for response shift and whether preferences for domains vary systematically with prior impairment in that domain. Finally, we compared the value set to 25 other EQ-5D-3L preference-based value sets. RESULTS TTO data were available for 12,954 EQ-5D-3L health states in 4683 patients. All coefficients in the value set had the expected sign, were statistically significant, and increased monotonically with severity of impairment. We found evidence for response shift in mobility, self-care, and usual activities. The value set had good agreement with the only other experience- and preference-based value set, but poor agreement with all hypothetical value sets. CONCLUSIONS We present an experience- and preference-based value set with high face validity. The study indicates that response shift may be important to account for when deriving value sets. Furthermore, the study suggests that perspective (experienced versus hypothetical) is more important than country setting or demographics for valuation of EQ-5D-3L health states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Svedbom
- ICON, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | - Patricia Clark
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Hospital Infantil Federico Gómez and Faculty of Medicine UNAM, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Manuel Diaz-Curiel
- Servicio de Medicina Interna/Enfermedades Metabolicas Oseas, Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Spain
- Catedra de Enfermedades Metabolicas Óseas, Universidad Autonoma, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hans Peter Dimai
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Mikk Jürisson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Olga Lesnyak
- North-West State Medical University Named After I.I.Mechnikov, St.Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Eugene McCloskey
- Academic Unit of Bone Metabolism, Metabolic Bone and Centre for Integrated Research in Musculoskeletal Ageing University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kerrie M Sanders
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Western Health and Sunshine Campus Melbourne University, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Thierry Thomas
- Department of Rheumatology, Hôpital Nord, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Saint-Etienne, INSERM U1059, Lyon University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Anna N A Tosteson
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, USA
| | | | - John A Kanis
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Western Health and Sunshine Campus Melbourne University, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Metabolic Bone Diseases, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Uusküla A, Feelemyer J, Des Jarlais DC. HIV treatment, antiretroviral adherence and AIDS mortality in people who inject drugs: a scoping review. Eur J Public Health 2023:7022042. [PMID: 36723859 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) are a key population for the prevention and care of HIV infection. METHODS This scoping review covers recent (post-2010) systematic reviews on engagement of PWID in sequential stages of HIV care from uptake, to achieving viral suppression, and to avoiding AIDS-related mortality. RESULTS We found that data on engagement of PWID into antiretroviral therapy (ART) were particularly scarce, but generally indicated very low engagement in ART. Studies of adherence and achieving viral suppression showed varying results, with PWID sometimes doing as well as other patient groups. The severity of social, medical and psychiatric disability in this population poses significant treatment challenges and leads to a marked gap in AIDS mortality between PWID and other population groups. CONCLUSIONS Given the multi-level barriers, it will be difficult to reach current targets (UNAIDS fast-track targets of 95-95-95) for ART for PWID in many locations. We suggest giving priority to reducing the likelihood that HIV seropositive PWID will transmit HIV to others and reducing morbidity and mortality from HIV infection and from other comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneli Uusküla
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Don C Des Jarlais
- College of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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13
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Piva HC. Semiotically Mediated Human-Bee Communication in the Practice of Brazilian Meliponiculture. Biosemiotics 2022; 16:105-124. [PMID: 36620503 PMCID: PMC9803400 DOI: 10.1007/s12304-022-09519-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Stingless bees are among the most dominant pollinators in the south tropics. As such, the rational beekeeping of stingless bee species, called meliponiculture, is an ancient and relevant activity, related to sustainable agricultural development, and which connects traditional knowledge to innovation and novelty. Given the relevance of this topic, this paper discusses the possibilities of a semiotically mediated communication between humans and Meliponini (stingless bees). Zoosemiotics, as the studies of animal views of the world, is the ideal modelling system for the investigation of the possibilities of mutual understanding between these two species. Starting from the premise that, for there to be inter-specific communication, there must be a shared code, and that this depends on the biological makeup and sensory apparatus of both organisms involved in the communication process, this research suggests that a possible way to communicate with stingless bees is with the use of olfactory (chemical) signals, since this channel seems to be common to both humans and bees. Considering that for human-animal relations one party must be able to recognize the other (iconic learning), it is revealed that chemical signals do allow bees to recognize individual humans, even going so far as profiling this person as 'not a threat'. Finally, bees are seen to act cooperatively while the beekeeper is taking action to protect and maintain the nest, something that can be interpreted as an opening of semiotic relations, where the bees are deeming the beekeeper as part of their social group. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12304-022-09519-2.
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Volke V, Katus U, Johannson A, Toompere K, Heinla K, Rünkorg K, Uusküla A. Systematic review and meta-analysis of head-to-head trials comparing sulfonylureas and low hypoglycaemic risk antidiabetic drugs. BMC Endocr Disord 2022; 22:251. [PMID: 36261824 PMCID: PMC9580135 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-022-01158-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safety of sulfonylurea drugs in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes is still under debate. The aim of this study was to compare the all-cause mortality and cardiovascular adverse events of sulfonylureas and drugs with a low risk for hypoglycaemia in adults with type 2 diabetes. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (PubMed, OVID), Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, WOS and Lilacs. STUDY SELECTION Randomised controlled head-to-head trials that compared sulfonylureas with active control with low hypoglycaemic potential in adults (≥ 18 years old) with type 2 diabetes published up to August 2015. The drug classes involved in the analysis were metformin, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. OUTCOMES The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. The secondary endpoints were MACE, cardiovascular events and severe hypoglycaemia. SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS Two reviewers checked study eligibility, independently extracted data and assessed quality with disagreements resolved through discussion. We assessed the risk of bias of the included studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials v2. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were estimated by using fixed effects model. The study is registered on PROSPERO (26/05/2016 CRD42016038780). RESULTS Our final analysis comprised 31 studies (26,204 patients, 11,711 patients given sulfonylureas and 14,493 given comparator drugs). In comparison to drugs with low hypoglycaemic potential, sulfonylureas had higher odds for all-cause mortality (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.00-1.75), MACE (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.07-1.61), myocardial infarction (fatal and non-fatal) (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.17-2.38) and hypoglycaemia (OR 5.24, 95% CI 4.20-6.55). Subsequent sensitivity analysis revealed differences in the effect of sulfonylureas, with an increased risk of all-cause mortality with glipizide but not the other molecules. CONCLUSION Our meta-analysis raises concern about the safety of SUs compared to alternative drugs involved in current analysis. Important differences may exist within the drug class, and glimepiride seems to have best safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vallo Volke
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Centre of excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
- Endocrinology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, 8 L. Puusepa Street, 51014, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Urmeli Katus
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Annika Johannson
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Karolin Toompere
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keiu Heinla
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Centre of excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kertu Rünkorg
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Centre of excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Anneli Uusküla
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Silm E, Järving I, Kanger T. Asymmetric organocatalytic Michael addition of cyclopentane-1,2-dione to alkylidene oxindole. Beilstein J Org Chem 2022; 18:167-173. [PMID: 35186153 PMCID: PMC8822468 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.18.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
An asymmetric Michael reaction between cyclopentane-1,2-dione and alkylidene oxindole was studied in the presence of a multifunctional squaramide catalyst. Michael adducts were obtained in high enantioselectivities and in moderate diastereoselectivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Silm
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ivar Järving
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Tõnis Kanger
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prevalence estimates for specific chronic conditions and multimorbidity (MM) in eastern Europe are scarce. This national study estimates the prevalence of MM by age group and sex in Estonia. DESIGN A population-based cross-sectional study, using administrative data. SETTING Data were collected on 55 chronic conditions from the Estonian Health Insurance Fund from 2015 to 2017. MM was defined as the coexistence of two or more conditions. PARTICIPANTS The Estonian Health Insurance Fund includes data for approximately 95% of the Estonian population receiving public health insurance. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Prevalence and 95% CIs for MM stratified by age group and sex. RESULTS Nearly half (49.1%) of the individuals (95% CI 49.0 to 49.3) had at least 1 chronic condition, and 30.1% (95% CI 30.0 to 30.2) had MM (2 or more chronic conditions). The number of conditions and the prevalence of MM increased with age, ranging from an MM prevalence of 3.5% (3.5%-3.6%) in the youngest (0-24 years) to as high as 80.4% (79.4%-81.3%) in the oldest (≥85 years) age group. Half of all individuals had MM by 60 years of age, and 75% of the population had MM by 75 years of age. Women had a higher prevalence of MM (34.9%, 95% CI 34.7 to 35.0) than men (24.4%, 95% CI 24.3 to 24.5). Hypertension was the most frequent chronic condition (24.5%), followed by chronic pain (12.4%) and arthritis (7.7%). CONCLUSIONS Hypertension is an important chronic condition amenable to treatment with lifestyle and therapeutic interventions. Given the established correlation between uncontrolled hypertension and exacerbation of other cardiovascular conditions as well as acute illnesses, this most common condition within the context of MM may be suitable for targeted public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikk Jürisson
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Heti Pisarev
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Anneli Uusküla
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katrin Lang
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Oona
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ruth Kalda
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Klepinina L, Klepinin A, Truu L, Chekulayev V, Vija H, Kuus K, Teino I, Pook M, Maimets T, Kaambre T. Colon cancer cell differentiation by sodium butyrate modulates metabolic plasticity of Caco-2 cells via alteration of phosphotransfer network. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245348. [PMID: 33471801 PMCID: PMC7817017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of butyrate to promote differentiation of cancer cells has important implication for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention and therapy. In this study, we examined the effect of sodium butyrate (NaBT) on the energy metabolism of colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells coupled with their differentiation. NaBT increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase indicating differentiation of Caco-2 cells. Changes in the expression of pluripotency-associated markers OCT4, NANOG and SOX2 were characterized during the induced differentiation at mRNA level along with the measures that allowed distinguishing the expression of different transcript variants. The functional activity of mitochondria was studied by high-resolution respirometry. Glycolytic pathway and phosphotransfer network were analyzed using enzymatical assays. The treatment of Caco-2 cells with NaBT increased production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation, enhanced mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity and caused rearrangement of the cellular phosphotransfer networks. The flexibility of phosphotransfer networks depended on the availability of glutamine, but not glucose in the cell growth medium. These changes were accompanied by suppressed cell proliferation and altered gene expression of the main pluripotency-associated transcription factors. This study supports the view that modulating cell metabolism through NaBT can be an effective strategy for treating CRC. Our data indicate a close relationship between the phosphotransfer performance and metabolic plasticity of CRC, which is associated with the cell differentiation state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljudmila Klepinina
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
- * E-mail:
| | - Aleksandr Klepinin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Laura Truu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Vladimir Chekulayev
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Heiki Vija
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Kaisa Kuus
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Indrek Teino
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Martin Pook
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Toivo Maimets
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tuuli Kaambre
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
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Mõttus J, Maiste S, Eek P, Truve E, Sarmiento C. Mutational analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana ABCE2 identifies important motifs for its RNA silencing suppressor function. Plant Biol (Stuttg) 2021; 23:21-31. [PMID: 33040451 PMCID: PMC7839781 DOI: 10.1111/plb.13193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette sub-family E member 1 (ABCE1) is recognized as a strongly conserved ribosome recycling factor, indispensable for translation in archaea and eukaryotes, however, its role in plants remains largely unidentified. Arabidopsis thaliana encodes two paralogous ABCE proteins (AtABCE1 and AtABCE2), sharing 81% identity. We previously reported that AtABCE2 functions as a suppressor of RNA silencing and that its gene is ubiquitously expressed. Here we describe the structural requirements of AtABCE2 for its suppressor function. Using agroinfiltration assays, we transiently overexpressed mutated versions of AtABCE2 together with GFP, to induce silencing in GFP transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. The influence of mutations was analysed at both local and systemic levels by in vivo imaging of GFP, Northern blot analysis of GFP siRNAs and observation of plants under UV light. Mutants of AtABCE2 with impaired ATP binding in either active site I or II failed to suppress GFP RNA silencing. Mutations disrupting ATP hydrolysis influenced the suppression of silencing differently at active site I or II. We also found that the N-terminal iron-sulphur cluster domain of AtABCE2 is crucial for its suppressor function. Meaningfully, the observed structural requirements of AtABCE2 for RNA silencing suppression were found to be similar to those of archaeal ABCE1 needed for ribosome recycling. AtABCE2 might therefore suppress RNA silencing via supporting the competing RNA degradation mechanisms associated with ribosome recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Mõttus
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
| | - S. Maiste
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
| | - P. Eek
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
| | - E. Truve
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
| | - C. Sarmiento
- Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
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Zhytnik L, Maasalu K, Reimann E, Märtson A, Kõks S. RNA sequencing analysis reveals increased expression of interferon signaling genes and dysregulation of bone metabolism affecting pathways in the whole blood of patients with osteogenesis imperfecta. BMC Med Genomics 2020; 13:177. [PMID: 33228694 PMCID: PMC7684725 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-020-00825-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic disorder in which the patients suffer from numerous fractures, skeletal deformities and bluish sclera. The disorder ranges from a mild form to severe and lethal cases. The main objective of this pilot study was to compare the blood transcriptional landscape of OI patients with COL1A1 pathogenic variants and their healthy relatives, in order to find out different gene expression and dysregulated molecular pathways in OI. METHODS We performed RNA sequencing analysis of whole blood in seven individuals affected with different OI severity and their five unaffected relatives from the three families. The data was analyzed using edgeR package of R Bioconductor. Functional profiling and pathway analysis of the identified differently expressed genes was performed with g:GOSt and MinePath web-based tools. RESULTS We identified 114 differently expressed genes. The expression of 79 genes was up-regulated, while 35 genes were down-regulated. The functional analysis identified a presence of dysregulated interferon signaling pathways (IFI27, IFITM3, RSAD12, GBP7). Additionally, the expressions of the genes related to extracellular matrix organization, Wnt signaling, vitamin D metabolism and MAPK-ERK 1/2 pathways were also altered. CONCLUSIONS The current pilot study successfully captured the differential expression of inflammation and bone metabolism pathways in OI patients. This work can contribute to future research of transcriptional bloodomics in OI. Transcriptional bloodomics has a strong potential to become a major contributor to the understanding of OI pathological mechanisms, the discovery of phenotype modifying factors, and the identification of new therapeutic targets. However, further studies in bigger cohorts of OI patients are needed to confirm the findings of the current work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiia Zhytnik
- Clinic of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Tartu University Hospital, Puusepa 8, 51014, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Katre Maasalu
- Clinic of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Tartu University Hospital, Puusepa 8, 51014, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ene Reimann
- Estonian Genome Centre, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Aare Märtson
- Clinic of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Tartu University Hospital, Puusepa 8, 51014, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sulev Kõks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
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20
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Abuladze L, Opikova G, Lang K. Factors associated with incidence of depressiveness among the middle-aged and older Estonian population. SAGE Open Med 2020; 8:2050312120974167. [PMID: 33282303 PMCID: PMC7682222 DOI: 10.1177/2050312120974167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Relatively scant research among older Estonian population describes factors associated with the incidence of depressive symptoms. This study identifies factors associated with the incidence of depressiveness among middle-aged and older Estonians over 2- and 4-year periods. METHOD In this cross-sectional analysis, logistic regression models are used to identify the factors associated with the incidence of depressiveness over 2- and 4-year periods. The data were drawn from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) 2011-2015 which included Estonian population aged 53 years and older in 2013. After excluding those younger than 53 years, not interviewed 2 years later, those with depressive symptoms at baseline in 2013, and missing values for depressiveness or other variables, our analytical sample comprised 2513 people. RESULTS Among those who were not depressive in 2013, 21.9% became depressive within 2 years; 16.1% of non-depressive individuals since 2011 became depressive by 2015. No age differences in incidence remained in adjusted models. Women have almost 50% higher odds of becoming depressive. A previous history of depressiveness and the presence of everyday activity limitations were important factors increasing the incidence of depression. DISCUSSION Changes related to the individual's unique ageing experience are important explanatory factors related to the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms, rather than age itself. To diminish the incidence of depressive symptoms among older Estonian population, public health interventions should attempt to address factors which complicate existing health problems and facilitate continued independence and community involvement, both of which contribute to overall satisfaction with life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liili Abuladze
- Estonian Institute for Population Studies, School of Governance, Law and Society, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Galina Opikova
- The Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katrin Lang
- The Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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21
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Uusküla A, Vickerman P, Raag M, Walker J, Paraskevis D, Eritsyan K, Sypsa V, Lioznov D, Avi R, Des Jarlais D. Presenting a conceptual framework for an HIV prevention and care continuum and assessing the feasibility of empirical measurement in Estonia: A case study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240224. [PMID: 33035238 PMCID: PMC7546465 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We aim to show the feasibility of using an integrated prevention and care continuum (PCC) model as a complete and improved tool for HIV control measurement and programming. Alignment of prevention and care continua is essential to further improve health outcomes and minimize HIV transmission risk. Design Cross-sectional study. Methods Data from 977 persons who inject drugs (PWID) collected in 2011–2016 in Tallinn, Estonia, were used to construct an HIV PCC for PWID, stratified by risk for acquiring or transmitting HIV infection and by coverage of combined interventions. We also estimated the average protective effect of current levels of intervention provision. Results 74.4%, 20.3% and 35.2% of PWID were currently using needle and syringe programmes (NSP), drug treatment and HIV testing, respectively. 51.1% of current PWID were HIV seropositive and of those 62.5% were currently on ART and 19.0% were virally suppressed. Across the PCC, individuals moved between categories of being aware and ever using drug treatment (resulting in -50% “leakage”); from ever having used to currently using drug treatment (-59%); between “ever testing” and “current (continuous) testing” (-62%); and from self-reported antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence to viral suppression (-70%). Use of prevention services was higher among those at risk of transmission (HIV positive). The overall reduction in acquisition risk among HIV-negative PWID was 77.7% (95% CrI 67.8–84.5%), estimated by the modelled protective effects of current levels of NSP, drug treatment and ART compared to none of these services. Conclusions Our findings suggest that developing a cohesive model for HIV prevention and treatment is feasible and reflects the bi-directional relationships between prevention and care. The integrated continuum model indicates the major factors which may predict the epidemic course and control response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneli Uusküla
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- * E-mail:
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Mait Raag
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Josephine Walker
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ksenia Eritsyan
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Vana Sypsa
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dmitry Lioznov
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, St. Petersburg, Russia
- First Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Radko Avi
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- College of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
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Kaleda A, Talvistu K, Tamm M, Viirma M, Rosend J, Tanilas K, Kriisa M, Part N, Tammik ML. Impact of Fermentation and Phytase Treatment of Pea-Oat Protein Blend on Physicochemical, Sensory, and Nutritional Properties of Extruded Meat Analogs. Foods 2020; 9:E1059. [PMID: 32764254 PMCID: PMC7465559 DOI: 10.3390/foods9081059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant materials that are used for the production of extruded meat analogs are often nutritionally incomplete and also contain antinutrients, thus there is a need to explore alternative plant proteins and pre-treatments. This study demonstrates application of phytase and fermentation to a pea-oat protein blend with a good essential amino acid profile and subsequent texturization using extrusion cooking. Enzymatic treatment reduced the content of antinutrient phytic acid by 32%. Extrusion also degraded phytic acid by up to 18%, but the effect depended on the material. Differences in physicochemical, sensorial, and textural properties between untreated and phytase-treated extruded meat analogs were small. In contrast, fermented material was more difficult to texturize due to degradation of macromolecules; physicochemical and textural properties of extrudates were markedly different; sensory analysis showed enhancement of flavor, but also detected an increase in some unwanted taste attributes (bitterness, cereal and off-taste). Phytic acid was not degraded by fermentation. Analysis of volatile compounds showed extrusion eliminated volatiles from the raw material but introduced Maillard reaction products. Overall, phytase treatment and fermentation demonstrated the potential for application in extruded meat analogs but also highlighted the necessity of optimization of process conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksei Kaleda
- Center of Food and Fermentation Technologies, Akadeemia tee 15a, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia; (K.T.); (M.T.); (M.V.); (J.R.); (K.T.); (M.K.); (N.P.); (M.-L.T.)
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Trindade DPF, Carmona CP, Pärtel M. Temporal lags in observed and dark diversity in the Anthropocene. Glob Chang Biol 2020; 26:3193-3201. [PMID: 32282128 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Understanding biodiversity changes in the Anthropocene (e.g. due to climate and land-use change) is an urgent ecological issue. This important task is challenging because global change effects and species responses are dependent on the spatial scales considered. Furthermore, responses are often not immediate. However, both scale and time delay issues can be tackled when, at each study site, we consider dynamics in both observed and dark diversity. Dark diversity includes those species in the region that can potentially establish and thrive in the local sites' conditions but are currently locally absent. Effectively, dark diversity connects biodiversity at the study site to the regional scales and defines the site-specific species pool (observed and dark diversity together). With dark diversity, it is possible to decompose species gains and losses into two space-related components: one associated with local dynamics (species moving from observed to dark diversity and vice versa) and another related to gains and losses of site-specific species pool (species moving to and from the pool after regional immigration, regional extinction or change in local ecological conditions). Extinction debt and immigration credit are useful to understand dynamics in observed diversity, but delays might happen in species pool changes as well. In this opinion piece we suggest that considering both observed and dark diversity and their temporal dynamics provides a deeper understanding of biodiversity changes. Considering both observed and dark diversity creates opportunities to improve conservation by allowing to identify species that are likely to go regionally extinct as well as foreseeing which of the species that newly arrive to the region are more likely to colonize local sites. Finally, by considering temporal lags and species gains and losses in observed and dark diversity, we combine phenomena at both spatial and temporal scales, providing a novel tool to examine biodiversity change in the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego P F Trindade
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Carlos P Carmona
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Meelis Pärtel
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Tummeleht L, Jürison M, Kurina O, Kirik H, Jeremejeva J, Viltrop A. Diversity of Diptera Species in Estonian Pig Farms. Vet Sci 2020; 7:E13. [PMID: 31979423 PMCID: PMC7157211 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In light of the African swine fever outbreaks in Estonian pig farms during the past few years, the question of the vector potential of Diptera in the pig farm environment has risen. However, the arthropod fauna of the pig farm environment is currently not well established. Hence, the aim of this study was to clarify the species diversity in pig farms. In total, 22 Diptera species or species groups were found in Estonian pig farms. There were altogether 186,701 individual arthropods collected, from which 96.6% (180,444) belonged to the order of true flies (Insecta: Diptera). The remaining 3.4% were from other insect orders, arachnids, or just damaged and unidentifiable specimens. The activity density and diversity of dipterans differed significantly between 12 sampled farms but not throughout the sampling period. The present study is amongst the few to provide a large-scale overview of pig-farm-associated Diptera in the temperate climate zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Tummeleht
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine & Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (J.J.); (A.V.)
| | - Margret Jürison
- Institute of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5D, EE-51006 Tartu, Estonia; (M.J.); (O.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Olavi Kurina
- Institute of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5D, EE-51006 Tartu, Estonia; (M.J.); (O.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Heli Kirik
- Institute of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5D, EE-51006 Tartu, Estonia; (M.J.); (O.K.); (H.K.)
| | - Julia Jeremejeva
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine & Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (J.J.); (A.V.)
| | - Arvo Viltrop
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine & Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (J.J.); (A.V.)
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Štšepetova J, Baranova J, Simm J, Parm Ü, Rööp T, Sokmann S, Korrovits P, Jaagura M, Rosenstein K, Salumets A, Mändar R. The complex microbiome from native semen to embryo culture environment in human in vitro fertilization procedure. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:3. [PMID: 31948459 PMCID: PMC6966866 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0562-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a few microbial studies have conducted in IVF (in vitro fertilization), showing the high-variety bacterial contamination of IVF culture media to cause damage to or even loss of cultured oocytes and embryos. We aimed to determine the prevalence and counts of bacteria in IVF samples, and to associate them with clinical outcome. METHODS The studied samples from 50 infertile couples included: raw (n = 48), processed (n = 49) and incubated (n = 50) sperm samples, and IVF culture media (n = 50). The full microbiome was analyzed by 454 pyrosequencing and quantitative analysis by real-time quantitative PCR. Descriptive statistics, t-, Mann-Whitney tests and Spearman's correlation were used for comparison of studied groups. RESULTS The study involved normozoospermic men. Normal vaginal microbiota was present in 72.0% of female partners, while intermediate microbiota and bacterial vaginosis were diagnosed in 12.0 and 16.0%, respectively. The decreasing bacterial loads were found in raw (35.5%), processed (12.0%) and sperm samples used for oocyte insemination (4.0%), and in 8.0% of IVF culture media. The most abundant genera of bacteria in native semen and IVF culture media were Lactobacillus, while in other samples Alphaproteobacteria prevailed. Staphylococcus sp. was found only in semen from patients with inflammation. Phylum Bacteroidetes was in negative correlation with sperm motility and Alphaproteobacteria with high-quality IVF embryos. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that IVF does not occur in a sterile environment. The prevalent bacteria include classes Bacilli in raw semen and IVF culture media, Clostridia in processed and Bacteroidia in sperm samples used for insemination. The presence of Staphylococcus sp. and Alphaproteobacteria associated with clinical outcomes, like sperm and embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Štšepetova
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61B, 50410, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Juliana Baranova
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaak Simm
- Department of Gene Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Ehitajate tee 5, 19086, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ülle Parm
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Tartu Health Care College, Nooruse 5, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tiiu Rööp
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sandra Sokmann
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Paul Korrovits
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61B, 50410, Tartu, Estonia
- Andrology Centre, Tartu University Hospital, L. Puusepa 1A, 50416, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Madis Jaagura
- NovaVita Clinic, Tammsaare tee 47, 11316, Tallinn, Estonia
| | | | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61B, 50410, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tartu, L. Puusepa 8, 50406, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 2, SF.00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Reet Mändar
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61B, 50410, Tartu, Estonia
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Kesküla A, Heinmaa I, Tamm T, Aydemir N, Travas-Sejdic J, Peikolainen AL, Kiefer R. Improving the Electrochemical Performance and Stability of Polypyrrole by Polymerizing Ionic Liquids. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:E136. [PMID: 31935858 PMCID: PMC7023371 DOI: 10.3390/polym12010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Polypyrrole (PPy) based electroactive materials are important building blocks for the development of flexible electronics, bio-sensors and actuator devices. As the properties and behavior of PPy depends strongly on the operating environment-electrolyte, solvent, etc., it is desirable to plant immobile ionic species into PPy films to ensure stable response. A premade ionic polymer is not optimal in many cases, as it enforces its own structure on the conducting polymer, therefore, polymerization during fabrication is preferred. Pyrrole (Py) was electropolymerized at low temperature together with a polymerizable ionic liquid (PIL) monomer in a one-step polymerization, to form a stable film on the working electrode. The structure and morphology of the PPyPIL films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and solid-state NMR (ssNMR) spectroscopy. The spectroscopy results confirmed the successful polymerization of Py to PPy and PIL monomer to PIL. The presence of (TFSI-) anions that balance the charge in PPyPIL was confirmed by EDX analysis. The electrical properties of PPyPIL in lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)-imide (LiTFSI) aqueous and propylene carbonate solutions were examined with cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry, and chronopotentiometry. The blend of PPyPIL had mixed electronic/ionic conductive properties that were strongly influenced by the solvent. In aqueous electrolyte, the electrical conductivity was 30 times lower and the diffusion coefficient 1.5 times higher than in the organic electrolyte. Importantly, the capacity, current density, and charge density were found to stay consistent, independent of the choice of solvent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arko Kesküla
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (A.K.); (T.T.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Ivo Heinmaa
- National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia;
| | - Tarmo Tamm
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (A.K.); (T.T.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Nihan Aydemir
- Polymer Electronics Research Center, School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (N.A.); (J.T.-S.)
| | - Jadranka Travas-Sejdic
- Polymer Electronics Research Center, School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (N.A.); (J.T.-S.)
- MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
| | - Anna-Liisa Peikolainen
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia; (A.K.); (T.T.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Rudolf Kiefer
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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Kurrikoff K, Freimann K, Veiman KL, Peets EM, Piirsoo A, Langel Ü. Effective lung-targeted RNAi in mice with peptide-based delivery of nucleic acid. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19926. [PMID: 31882941 PMCID: PMC6934651 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56455-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously developed efficient peptide-based nucleic acid delivery vectors PF14 and NF55, where we have shown that these vectors preferentially transfect lung tissue upon systemic administration with the nucleic acid. In the current work, we have explored the utilization and potential of these vectors for the lung-targeted gene therapy. Accordingly, we assessed the efficacy of these peptides in (i) two different lung disease models - acute lung inflammation and asthma in mice and (ii) using two different nucleic acid cargos - siRNA and pDNA encoding shRNA. Using RNAi against cytokine TNFα, we showed efficient anti-inflammatory effects in both disease models and observed decreased disease symptoms. Our results highlight the potential of our transfection vectors for lung gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaido Kurrikoff
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Krista Freimann
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kadi-Liis Veiman
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Elin Madli Peets
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Piirsoo
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Langel
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Department Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, S. Arrheniusv 16B, SE-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
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Srivathsan A, Hartop E, Puniamoorthy J, Lee WT, Kutty SN, Kurina O, Meier R. Rapid, large-scale species discovery in hyperdiverse taxa using 1D MinION sequencing. BMC Biol 2019; 17:96. [PMID: 31783752 PMCID: PMC6884855 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0706-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 80% of all animal species remain unknown to science. Most of these species live in the tropics and belong to animal taxa that combine small body size with high specimen abundance and large species richness. For such clades, using morphology for species discovery is slow because large numbers of specimens must be sorted based on detailed microscopic investigations. Fortunately, species discovery could be greatly accelerated if DNA sequences could be used for sorting specimens to species. Morphological verification of such "molecular operational taxonomic units" (mOTUs) could then be based on dissection of a small subset of specimens. However, this approach requires cost-effective and low-tech DNA barcoding techniques because well-equipped, well-funded molecular laboratories are not readily available in many biodiverse countries. RESULTS We here document how MinION sequencing can be used for large-scale species discovery in a specimen- and species-rich taxon like the hyperdiverse fly family Phoridae (Diptera). We sequenced 7059 specimens collected in a single Malaise trap in Kibale National Park, Uganda, over the short period of 8 weeks. We discovered > 650 species which exceeds the number of phorid species currently described for the entire Afrotropical region. The barcodes were obtained using an improved low-cost MinION pipeline that increased the barcoding capacity sevenfold from 500 to 3500 barcodes per flowcell. This was achieved by adopting 1D sequencing, resequencing weak amplicons on a used flowcell, and improving demultiplexing. Comparison with Illumina data revealed that the MinION barcodes were very accurate (99.99% accuracy, 0.46% Ns) and thus yielded very similar species units (match ratio 0.991). Morphological examination of 100 mOTUs also confirmed good congruence with morphology (93% of mOTUs; > 99% of specimens) and revealed that 90% of the putative species belong to the neglected, megadiverse genus Megaselia. We demonstrate for one Megaselia species how the molecular data can guide the description of a new species (Megaselia sepsioides sp. nov.). CONCLUSIONS We document that one field site in Africa can be home to an estimated 1000 species of phorids and speculate that the Afrotropical diversity could exceed 200,000 species. We furthermore conclude that low-cost MinION sequencers are very suitable for reliable, rapid, and large-scale species discovery in hyperdiverse taxa. MinION sequencing could quickly reveal the extent of the unknown diversity and is especially suitable for biodiverse countries with limited access to capital-intensive sequencing facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Srivathsan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Emily Hartop
- Zoology Department, Stockholms Universitet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Station Linné, Öland, Sweden
| | - Jayanthi Puniamoorthy
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wan Ting Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sujatha Narayanan Kutty
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, Singapore
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Olavi Kurina
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 5D, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Rudolf Meier
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, Singapore.
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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Org T, Hensen K, Kreevan R, Mark E, Sarv O, Andreson R, Jaakma Ü, Salumets A, Kurg A. Genome-wide histone modification profiling of inner cell mass and trophectoderm of bovine blastocysts by RAT-ChIP. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225801. [PMID: 31765427 PMCID: PMC6876874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with next-generation sequencing (ChIP-seq) has revolutionized our understanding of chromatin-related biological processes. The method, however, requires thousands of cells and has therefore limited applications in situations where cell numbers are limited. Here we describe a novel method called Restriction Assisted Tagmentation Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (RAT-ChIP) that enables global histone modification profiling from as few as 100 cells. The method is simple, cost-effective and takes a single day to complete. We demonstrate the sensitivity of the method by deriving the first genome-wide maps of histone H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 modifications of inner cell mass and trophectoderm of bovine blastocyst stage embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tõnis Org
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- * E-mail:
| | - Kati Hensen
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Rita Kreevan
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Elina Mark
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Olav Sarv
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Reidar Andreson
- Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülle Jaakma
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ants Kurg
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Tšuiko O, Dmitrijeva T, Kask K, Tammur P, Tõnisson N, Salumets A, Jatsenko T. Detection of a balanced translocation carrier through trophectoderm biopsy analysis: a case report. Mol Cytogenet 2019; 12:28. [PMID: 31244893 PMCID: PMC6582470 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-019-0444-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balanced translocation carriers are burdened with fertility issues due to improper chromosome segregation in gametes, resulting in either implantation failure, miscarriage or birth of a child with chromosomal disorders. At the same time, these individuals are typically healthy with no signs of developmental problems, hence they often are unaware of their condition. Yet, because of difficulties in conceiving, balanced translocation carriers often turn to assisted reproduction, some of whom may also undergo preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) to improve the likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy. CASE REPORT We describe a female patient, who pursued in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment coupled with PGT-A following two consecutive miscarriages, unaware of her genetic condition. PGT-A was performed on blastocyst-stage embryos and the results of comprehensive chromosome screening from a first IVF cycle demonstrated reciprocal segmental aberrations on chromosome 7 and chromosome 10 in two out of four embryos. Due to distinct embryo profiles, the couple was then referred for genetic counselling and subsequent parental karyotyping revealed the presence of a previously undetected balanced translocation in the mother. CONCLUSIONS These results confirm previous reports that genome-wide PGT-A can facilitate the identification of balanced translocation carriers in IVF patients, providing explanation for poor reproductive outcome and allowing adjustments in treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Tšuiko
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, 50410 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tuuli Dmitrijeva
- BioEximi OÜ, Sõle 23, 10614 Tallinn, Estonia
- Women’s Clinic, West-Tallinn Central Hospital, Sõle 23, 10614 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Katrin Kask
- Women’s Clinic, West-Tallinn Central Hospital, Sõle 23, 10614 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Pille Tammur
- Department of Clinical Genetics, United Laboratories, Tartu University Hospital, L. Puusepa 2, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Neeme Tõnisson
- Department of Clinical Genetics in Tallinn, United Laboratories, Tartu University Hospital, L. Puusepa 2, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, Riia 23b, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, 50410 Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Bio- and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Tartu, L. Puusepa 8, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 2, 00029 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tatjana Jatsenko
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, 50410 Tartu, Estonia
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Suvi S, Mooses M, Timpmann S, Medijainen L, Unt E, Ööpik V. Influence of Sodium Citrate Supplementation after Dehydrating Exercise on Responses of Stress Hormones to Subsequent Endurance Cycling Time-Trial in the Heat. Medicina (Kaunas) 2019; 55:E103. [PMID: 31013820 PMCID: PMC6524037 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55040103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: In temperate environments, acute orally induced metabolic alkalosis alleviates exercise stress, as reflected in attenuated stress hormone responses to relatively short-duration exercise bouts. However, it is unknown whether the same phenomenon occurs during prolonged exercise in the heat. This study was undertaken with aim to test the hypothesis that ingestion of an alkalizing substance (sodium citrate; CIT) after dehydrating exercise would decrease blood levels of stress hormones during subsequent 40 km cycling time-trial (TT) in the heat. Materials and Methods: Male non-heat-acclimated athletes (n = 20) lost 4% of body mass by exercising in the heat. Then, during a 16 h recovery period prior to TT in a warm environment (32 °C), participants ate the prescribed food and ingested CIT (600 mg·kg-1) or placebo (PLC) in a double-blind, randomized, crossover manner with 7 days between the two trials. Blood aldosterone, cortisol, prolactin and growth hormone concentrations were measured before and after TT. Results: Total work performed during TT was similar in the two trials (p = 0.716). In CIT compared to PLC trial, lower levels of aldosterone occurred before (72%) and after (39%) TT (p ˂ 0.001), and acute response of aldosterone to TT was blunted (29%, p ˂ 0.001). Lower cortisol levels in CIT than in PLC trial occurred before (13%, p = 0.039) and after TT (14%, p = 0.001), but there were no between-trial differences in the acute responses of cortisol, prolactin or growth hormone to TT, or in concentrations of prolactin and growth hormone before or after TT (in all cases p > 0.05). Conclusions: Reduced aldosterone and cortisol levels after TT and blunted acute response of aldosterone to TT indicate that CIT ingestion during recovery after dehydrating exercise may alleviate stress during the next hard endurance cycling bout in the heat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silva Suvi
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Estonian Centre of Behavioral and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Martin Mooses
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Estonian Centre of Behavioral and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Saima Timpmann
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Estonian Centre of Behavioral and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Luule Medijainen
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Estonian Centre of Behavioral and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Eve Unt
- Department of Cardiology, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Department of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Vahur Ööpik
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
- Estonian Centre of Behavioral and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia.
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Kotta J, Herkül K, Jaagus J, Kaasik A, Raudsepp U, Alari V, Arula T, Haberman J, Järvet A, Kangur K, Kont A, Kull A, Laanemets J, Maljutenko I, Männik A, Nõges P, Nõges T, Ojaveer H, Peterson A, Reihan A, Rõõm R, Sepp M, Suursaar Ü, Tamm O, Tamm T, Tõnisson H. Linking atmospheric, terrestrial and aquatic environments: Regime shifts in the Estonian climate over the past 50 years. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209568. [PMID: 30589880 PMCID: PMC6307728 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change in recent decades has been identified as a significant threat to natural environments and human wellbeing. This is because some of the contemporary changes to climate are abrupt and result in persistent changes in the state of natural systems; so called regime shifts (RS). This study aimed to detect and analyse the timing and strength of RS in Estonian climate at the half-century scale (1966−2013). We demonstrate that the extensive winter warming of the Northern Hemisphere in the late 1980s was represented in atmospheric, terrestrial, freshwater and marine systems to an extent not observed before or after the event within the studied time series. In 1989, abiotic variables displayed statistically significant regime shifts in atmospheric, river and marine systems, but not in lake and bog systems. This was followed by regime shifts in the biotic time series of bogs and marine ecosystems in 1990. However, many biotic time series lacked regime shifts, or the shifts were uncoupled from large-scale atmospheric circulation. We suggest that the latter is possibly due to complex and temporally variable interactions between abiotic and biotic elements with ecosystem properties buffering biotic responses to climate change signals, as well as being affected by concurrent anthropogenic impacts on natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonne Kotta
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
- * E-mail:
| | - Kristjan Herkül
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Jaak Jaagus
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ants Kaasik
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Urmas Raudsepp
- Marine Systems Institute, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Victor Alari
- Marine Systems Institute, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Timo Arula
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Juta Haberman
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Arvo Järvet
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Külli Kangur
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Are Kont
- Institute of Ecology, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ain Kull
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaan Laanemets
- Marine Systems Institute, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ilja Maljutenko
- Marine Systems Institute, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Aarne Männik
- Department of Marine Systems, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Peeter Nõges
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tiina Nõges
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Henn Ojaveer
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
| | | | - Alvina Reihan
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Rein Rõõm
- Department of Marine Systems, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Mait Sepp
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Suursaar
- Estonian Marine Institute, University of Tartu, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ottar Tamm
- Institute of Forestry and Rural Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Toomas Tamm
- Institute of Forestry and Rural Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
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Lekberg Y, Vasar M, Bullington LS, Sepp SK, Antunes PM, Bunn R, Larkin BG, Öpik M. More bang for the buck? Can arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities be characterized adequately alongside other fungi using general fungal primers? New Phytol 2018; 220:971-976. [PMID: 29388685 DOI: 10.1111/nph.15035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ylva Lekberg
- MPG Ranch, Missoula, MT, 59803, USA
- Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Martti Vasar
- Department of Botany, University of Tartu, Tartu, 51005, Estonia
| | | | - Siim-Kaarel Sepp
- Department of Botany, University of Tartu, Tartu, 51005, Estonia
| | - Pedro M Antunes
- Department of Biology, Algoma University, Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6B 2G4, Canada
| | - Rebecca Bunn
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Western Washington University, Bellingham, WA, 98225, USA
| | | | - Maarja Öpik
- Department of Botany, University of Tartu, Tartu, 51005, Estonia
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Aunapuu M, Kibur P, Järveots T, Arend A. Changes in Morphology and Presence of Pinopodes in Endometrial Cells during the Luteal Phase in Women with Infertility Problems: A Pilot Study. Medicina (Kaunas) 2018; 54:E69. [PMID: 30344300 PMCID: PMC6262557 DOI: 10.3390/medicina54050069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate morphological changes in the endometrial epithelial cells of patients with infertility problems. Materials and methods: Endometrial biopsies were obtained from 10 women who have undergone several unsuccessful in vitro fertilisation (IVF) procedures. Endometrial biopsies were performed between luteinizing hormone surge days LH+6 to +10 of the natural menstrual cycle. Each sample was divided into three parts, which were processed for histological, transmission (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations. Results: Histological investigations demonstrated significant alterations in the apical part of epithelial cells of one patient; in four patients, the gland maturity was low, not matching the cycle day, and thus a phase lag had developed. By TEM examination, we ascertained changes in secretory and ciliated cells in three patients (decreased amount or missing microvilli, irregular cilia in ciliated cells). SEM examination found pinopodes in five patients: three samples contained fully developed pinopodes-larger and completely smooth, with only some wrinkles; one sample contained regressing small pinopodes, with wrinkled surfaces; and one sample had both developed and regressing pinopodes. Conclusions: To conclude, our study shows that the endometrium of patients with poor IVF outcome has either significant changes in the morphology or the endometrial maturation is inhibited and a phase lag often develops. Our study shows that endometrial pinopodes are found throughout the mid-luteal phase up to day LH+10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Aunapuu
- Department of Anatomy, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
- Department of Morphology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. Kreutzwaldi 62, 51014, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Piret Kibur
- Department of Anatomy, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Tõnu Järveots
- Department of Morphology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. Kreutzwaldi 62, 51014, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Andres Arend
- Department of Anatomy, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411 Tartu, Estonia.
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Orru K, Nordin S, Harzia H, Orru H. The role of perceived air pollution and health risk perception in health symptoms and disease: a population-based study combined with modelled levels of PM 10. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2018; 91:581-589. [PMID: 29602966 PMCID: PMC6002462 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1303-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Adverse health impact of air pollution on health may not only be associated with the level of exposure, but rather mediated by perception of the pollution and by top-down processing (e.g. beliefs of the exposure being hazardous), especially in areas with relatively low levels of pollutants. The aim of this study was to test a model that describes interrelations between air pollution (particles < 10 \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$${\upmu }$$\end{document}μm, PM10), perceived pollution, health risk perception, health symptoms and diseases. Methods A population-based questionnaire study was conducted among 1000 Estonian residents (sample was stratified by age, sex, and geographical location) about health risk perception and coping. The PM10 levels were modelled in 1 × 1 km grids using a Eulerian air quality dispersion model. Respondents were ascribed their annual mean PM10 exposure according to their home address. Path analysis was performed to test the validity of the model. Results The data refute the model proposing that exposure level significantly influences symptoms and disease. Instead, the perceived exposure influences symptoms and the effect of perceived exposure on disease is mediated by health risk perception. This relationship is more pronounced in large cities compared to smaller towns or rural areas. Conclusions Perceived pollution and health risk perception, in particular in large cities, play important roles in understanding and predicting environmentally induced symptoms and diseases at relatively low levels of air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kati Orru
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
- Institute of Social Studies, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Steven Nordin
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Hans Orru
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Olsson MA, García-Sosa AT, Ryde U. Binding affinities of the farnesoid X receptor in the D3R Grand Challenge 2 estimated by free-energy perturbation and docking. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2018; 32:211-224. [PMID: 28879536 PMCID: PMC5767205 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-017-0056-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
We have studied the binding of 102 ligands to the farnesoid X receptor within the D3R Grand Challenge 2016 blind-prediction competition. First, we employed docking with five different docking software and scoring functions. The selected docked poses gave an average root-mean-squared deviation of 4.2 Å. Consensus scoring gave decent results with a Kendall's τ of 0.26 ± 0.06 and a Spearman's ρ of 0.41 ± 0.08. For a subset of 33 ligands, we calculated relative binding free energies with free-energy perturbation. Five transformations between the ligands involved a change of the net charge and we implemented and benchmarked a semi-analytic correction (Rocklin et al., J Chem Phys 139:184103, 2013) for artifacts caused by the periodic boundary conditions and Ewald summation. The results gave a mean absolute deviation of 7.5 kJ/mol compared to the experimental estimates and a correlation coefficient of R 2 = 0.1. These results were among the four best in this competition out of 22 submissions. The charge corrections were significant (7-8 kJ/mol) and always improved the results. By employing 23 intermediate states in the free-energy perturbation, there was a proper overlap between all states and the precision was 0.1-0.7 kJ/mol. However, thermodynamic cycles indicate that the sampling was insufficient in some of the perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Olsson
- Department of Theoretical Chemistry, Chemical Centre, Lund University, P. O. Box 124, 221 00, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Ulf Ryde
- Department of Theoretical Chemistry, Chemical Centre, Lund University, P. O. Box 124, 221 00, Lund, Sweden.
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Wu J, Crawford FW, Raag M, Heimer R, Uusküla A. Using data from respondent-driven sampling studies to estimate the number of people who inject drugs: Application to the Kohtla-Järve region of Estonia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185711. [PMID: 29095866 PMCID: PMC5667832 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimating the size of key risk populations is essential for determining the resources needed to implement effective public health intervention programs. Several standard methods for population size estimation exist, but the statistical and practical assumptions required for their use may not be met when applied to HIV risk groups. We apply three approaches to estimate the number of people who inject drugs (PWID) in the Kohtla-Järve region of Estonia using data from a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) study: the standard "multiplier" estimate gives 654 people (95% CI 509-804), the "successive sampling" method gives estimates between 600 and 2500 people, and a network-based estimate that uses the RDS recruitment chain gives between 700 and 2800 people. We critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of these statistical approaches for estimating the size of hidden or hard-to-reach HIV risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Forrest W. Crawford
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States of America
- Yale School of Management, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Mait Raag
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Robert Heimer
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Disease and the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Anneli Uusküla
- Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The population of Estonia has one of the lowest life expectancies and health statuses in Europe. This is reflected in a lower perception of health among older adults. This study focuses on the role of health behaviour (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and nutrition) in self-rated health, accounting for sociodemographic characteristics, activity limitations and long-term illnesses as well as satisfaction with life of older Estonian men and women. DESIGN We use representative cross-sectional data from Wave 4 of the Estonian Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, conducted mainly in 2011. PARTICIPANTS Frequencies, χ2 tests and logistic regression models include respondents aged 50 years and older, with no upper age limit (n=6660). RESULTS Men have 20% higher odds (CI 1.02 to 1.43) of poor self-rated health. Being of foreign origin (OR 1.48; CI 1.24 to 1.77), having a basic (2.50; CI 2.06 to 3.00) or secondary (1.71; CI 1.43 to 2.04) education, being retired (2.00; CI 1.65 to 2.44) or staying at home (1.49; CI 1.16 to 1.93) and having activity limitations (3.25; CI 2.77 to 3.80) or long-term illnesses (4.78; CI 4.08 to 5.60) are related to poor self-rated health. Never being involved in vigorous (2.30; CI 1.90 to 2.79) or moderate physical activity (1.41; CI 1.02 to 1.94), and consuming legumes and eggs less frequently (1.25; CI 1.08 to 1.45) is associated with poorer self-rated health. Lower satisfaction with life accounts for some of the variation (2.28; CI 1.92 to 2.71). CONCLUSIONS There is a strong cumulative effect of one's previous life course on the self-rated health of older adults in Estonia, suggesting that public health policies have long-term consequences rather than immediate consequences. Health services supporting health behaviours and targeting vulnerable population groups with specific sociodemographic characteristics and health problems may influence self-rated health for some. Public health services emphasising social activities or psychological aspects may be most successful in improving self-rated health of older Estonians through satisfaction with life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liili Abuladze
- Estonian Institute for Population Studies, School of Governance, Law and Society, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Nele Kunder
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katrin Lang
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sirje Vaask
- School of Natural Sciences and Health, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
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Orru H, Åström DO. Increases in external cause mortality due to high and low temperatures: evidence from northeastern Europe. Int J Biometeorol 2017; 61:963-966. [PMID: 27858164 PMCID: PMC5411405 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-016-1270-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between temperature and mortality is well established but has seldom been investigated in terms of external causes. In some Eastern European countries, external cause mortality is substantial. Deaths owing to external causes are the third largest cause of mortality in Estonia, after cardiovascular disease and cancer. Death rates owing to external causes may reflect behavioural changes among a population. The aim for the current study was to investigate if there is any association between temperature and external cause mortality, in Estonia. We collected daily information on deaths from external causes (ICD-10 diagnosis codes V00-Y99) and maximum temperatures over the period 1997-2013. The relationship between daily maximum temperature and mortality was investigated using Poisson regression, combined with a distributed lag non-linear model considering lag times of up to 10 days. We found significantly higher mortality owing to external causes on hot (the same and previous day) and cold days (with a lag of 1-3 days). The cumulative relative risks for heat (an increase in temperature from the 75th to 99th percentile) were 1.24 (95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.34) and for cold (a decrease from the 25th to 1st percentile) 1.19 (1.03-1.38). Deaths due to external causes might reflect changes in behaviour among a population during periods of extreme hot and cold temperatures and should therefore be investigated further, because such deaths have a severe impact on public health, especially in Eastern Europe where external mortality rates are high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Orru
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Daniel Oudin Åström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Centre for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Jõesaar M, Viggor S, Heinaru E, Naanuri E, Mehike M, Leito I, Heinaru A. Strategy of Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes C70 for effective degradation of phenol and salicylate. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173180. [PMID: 28257519 PMCID: PMC5336314 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenol- and naphthalene-degrading indigenous Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes strain C70 has great potential for the bioremediation of polluted areas. It harbours two chromosomally located catechol meta pathways, one of which is structurally and phylogenetically very similar to the Pseudomonas sp. CF600 dmp operon and the other to the P. stutzeri AN10 nah lower operon. The key enzymes of the catechol meta pathway, catechol 2,3-dioxygenase (C23O) from strain C70, PheB and NahH, have an amino acid identity of 85%. The metabolic and regulatory phenotypes of the wild-type and the mutant strain C70ΔpheB lacking pheB were evaluated. qRT-PCR data showed that in C70, the expression of pheB- and nahH-encoded C23O was induced by phenol and salicylate, respectively. We demonstrate that strain C70 is more effective in the degradation of phenol and salicylate, especially at higher substrate concentrations, when these compounds are present as a mixture; i.e., when both pathways are expressed. Moreover, NahH is able to substitute for the deleted PheB in phenol degradation when salicylate is also present in the growth medium. The appearance of a yellow intermediate 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde was followed by the accumulation of catechol in salicylate-containing growth medium, and lower expression levels and specific activities of the C23O of the sal operon were detected. However, the excretion of the toxic intermediate catechol to the growth medium was avoided when the growth medium was supplemented with phenol, seemingly due to the contribution of the second meta pathway encoded by the phe genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merike Jõesaar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Signe Viggor
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eeva Heinaru
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eve Naanuri
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maris Mehike
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ivo Leito
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ain Heinaru
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Remm K, Remm L. Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa (L.) Rydb.) mapping in Northwestern Estonia based upon site similarities. BMC Ecol 2017; 17:7. [PMID: 28222712 PMCID: PMC5320763 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-017-0117-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different methods have been used to map species and habitat distributions. In this paper, similarity-based reasoning-a methodological approach that has received less attention-was applied to estimate the distribution and coverage of Dasiphora fruticosa for the region in the Baltic states where grows the most abundant population of this species. METHODS Field observations, after thinning to at least 50 m interval, included 1480 coverage estimations in the species presence locations and 8317 absence locations. Species coverage for the 750 km2 of directly unobserved area was calculated using machine learning in the similarity-based prediction system Constud. Separate predictive sets of site features (e.g. land cover, soil type) and exemplar weights were calibrated for spatial partitions of the study area (probable presence region, unclear region, proved absence region). A modified version of the Gower's distance metric, as used in Constud, is described. RESULTS The resulting maps depicted the predicted coverage, the certainty of decision when predicting presence or absence, and the mean similarity to the exemplar locations used while predicting. Coverage prediction errors were smaller in the unclear partition-where the species was mostly absent-than in the probable presence partition, where coverage ranged from 0 to 90%. CONCLUSIONS We call for methodological comparisons using the same data set.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalle Remm
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Vanemuise 46, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liina Remm
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Vanemuise 46, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
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Uusküla A, Raag M, Marsh K, Talu A, Vorobjov S, Des Jarlais D. HIV prevalence and gender differences among new injection-drug-users in Tallinn, Estonia: A persisting problem in a stable high prevalence epidemic. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170956. [PMID: 28152026 PMCID: PMC5289488 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION New injectors / younger drug users are an important population to target for intervention because they are often at especially high risk of HIV and HCV infection. We examined HIV prevalence and gender differences in HIV prevalence and risk behavior among new injection-drug-users in Tallinn, Estonia. METHODS Respondent driven sampling (RDS) interview surveys and HIV testing were conducted in Tallinn in 2009, 2011 and 2013. We classified "new injectors" as persons who reported their first injection as occurring within three years of the study interview. Recruiting trees of the three individual RDS studies were joined to form one RDS dataset and RDS estimates for prevalence and means were derived. Bootstrap tests were used to compare data from men and women, HIV infected and uninfected. RESULTS Among 110 new injectors (34 women and 76 men) the mean age was 24.5 (SD 7.5) years; 63% reported injecting mainly fentanyl, 34% injecting mainly amphetamine, 36% sharing syringes, 89% were sexually active, and, of these, 88% did not always use condoms in the last 6 months. HIV prevalence was 18% (95%CI 8-28%) (41% (95%CI 19-63%) among female and 7% (95%CI 2-12%) among male new injectors). Based on self-reports, 8.1% of all new injectors (and 22% of female new injectors) were HIV positive before starting to inject drugs. 40% of HIV infected reported receiving antiretroviral therapy. In multivariable analysis, gender (male: OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.45), main drug injected (fentanyl: OR 6.7, 95% CI 1.3-35.7) and syringe sharing (distributive: OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.02-0.55; and receptive: OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.0-13.5) were associated with the HIV seropositivity. CONCLUSIONS New injectors exhibit high-risk behavior and correspondingly high HIV prevalence. Sexual transmission of HIV infection, including before injection initiation, is likely to be a significant contributor to HIV risk among female new injectors. This highlights the need to identify and target new injectors and their partners with gender specific interventions in addition to interventions to reduce initiation into injecting and ensuring provision of ART to HIV positive new injectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneli Uusküla
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mait Raag
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristina Marsh
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ave Talu
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Don Des Jarlais
- The Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute, Mount Sinai Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
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Rannamäe E, Lõugas L, Speller CF, Valk H, Maldre L, Wilczyński J, Mikhailov A, Saarma U. Three Thousand Years of Continuity in the Maternal Lineages of Ancient Sheep (Ovis aries) in Estonia. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163676. [PMID: 27732668 PMCID: PMC5061334 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although sheep (Ovis aries) have been one of the most exploited domestic animals in Estonia since the Late Bronze Age, relatively little is known about their genetic history. Here, we explore temporal changes in Estonian sheep populations and their mitochondrial genetic diversity over the last 3000 years. We target a 558 base pair fragment of the mitochondrial hypervariable region in 115 ancient sheep from 71 sites in Estonia (c. 1200 BC–AD 1900s), 19 ancient samples from Latvia, Russia, Poland and Greece (6800 BC–AD 1700), as well as 44 samples of modern Kihnu native sheep breed. Our analyses revealed: (1) 49 mitochondrial haplotypes, associated with sheep haplogroups A and B; (2) high haplotype diversity in Estonian ancient sheep; (3) continuity in mtDNA haplotypes through time; (4) possible population expansion during the first centuries of the Middle Ages (associated with the establishment of the new power regime related to 13th century crusades); (5) significant difference in genetic diversity between ancient populations and modern native sheep, in agreement with the beginning of large-scale breeding in the 19th century and population decline in local sheep. Overall, our results suggest that in spite of the observed fluctuations in ancient sheep populations, and changes in the natural and historical conditions, the utilisation of local sheep has been constant in the territory of Estonia, displaying matrilineal continuity from the Middle Bronze Age through the Modern Period, and into modern native sheep.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Archaeology
- Breeding/history
- DNA, Mitochondrial/isolation & purification
- DNA, Mitochondrial/metabolism
- Estonia
- Fossils
- Genetic Variation
- Haplotypes
- History, 15th Century
- History, 16th Century
- History, 17th Century
- History, 18th Century
- History, 19th Century
- History, 20th Century
- History, Ancient
- History, Medieval
- Mitochondria/genetics
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sheep
- Sheep, Domestic/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve Rannamäe
- Department of Archaeology, Institute of History and Archaeology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Lembi Lõugas
- Archaeological Research Collection, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | | | - Heiki Valk
- Department of Archaeology, Institute of History and Archaeology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liina Maldre
- Archaeological Research Collection, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Jarosław Wilczyński
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | | | - Urmas Saarma
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- * E-mail:
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Plumer L, Keis M, Remm J, Hindrikson M, Jõgisalu I, Männil P, Kübarsepp M, Saarma U. Wolves Recolonizing Islands: Genetic Consequences and Implications for Conservation and Management. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158911. [PMID: 27384049 PMCID: PMC4934778 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
After a long and deliberate persecution, the grey wolf (Canis lupus) is slowly recolonizing its former areas in Europe, and the genetic consequences of this process are of particular interest. Wolves, though present in mainland Estonia for a long time, have only recently started to recolonize the country’s two largest islands, Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. The main objective of this study was to analyse wolf population structure and processes in Estonia, with particular attention to the recolonization of islands. Fifteen microsatellite loci were genotyped for 185 individuals across Estonia. As a methodological novelty, all putative wolf-dog hybrids were identified and removed (n = 17) from the dataset beforehand to avoid interference of dog alleles in wolf population analysis. After the preliminary filtering, our final dataset comprised of 168 “pure” wolves. We recommend using hybrid-removal step as a standard precautionary procedure not only for wolf population studies, but also for other taxa prone to hybridization. STRUCTURE indicated four genetic groups in Estonia. Spatially explicit DResD analysis identified two areas, one of them on Saaremaa island and the other in southwestern Estonia, where neighbouring individuals were genetically more similar than expected from an isolation-by-distance null model. Three blending areas and two contrasting transition zones were identified in central Estonia, where the sampled individuals exhibited strong local differentiation over relatively short distance. Wolves on the largest Estonian islands are part of human-wildlife conflict due to livestock depredation. Negative public attitude, especially on Saaremaa where sheep herding is widespread, poses a significant threat for island wolves. To maintain the long-term viability of the wolf population on Estonian islands, not only wolf hunting quota should be targeted with extreme care, but effective measures should be applied to avoid inbreeding and minimize conflicts with local communities and stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liivi Plumer
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marju Keis
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaanus Remm
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maris Hindrikson
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | - Urmas Saarma
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- * E-mail:
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