bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic heterogeneity underlies multidrug resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A population-level analysis beyond susceptibility testing
Authors: Rojas Laura J. , Yasmin Mohamad , Benjamino Jacquelynn , Marshall Steven M. , DeRonde Kailynn J. , Krishnan Nikhil P. , Perez Federico , Colin Andrew A. , Cardenas Monica , Martinez Octavio , Pérez-Cardona Armando , Rhoads Daniel D. , Jacobs Michael R. , LiPuma John J. , Konstan Michael W. , Vila Alejandro J. , Smania Andrea , Mack Andrew R. , Scott Jacob G. , Adams Mark D. , Abbo Lilian M. , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a persistent and difficult-to-treat pathogen in many patients, especially those with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Herein, we describe a longitudinal analysis of a series of multidrug resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa isolates recovered in a 17-month period, from a young female CF patient who underwent double lung transplantation. Our goal was to understand the genetic basis of the observed resistance phenotypes, establish the genomic population diversity, and define the nature of sequence evolution over time.

Methods

Twenty-two sequential P. aeruginosa isolates were obtained within a 17-month period, before and after a double-lung transplant. At the end of the study period, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, whole genome sequencing (WGS), phylogenetic analyses and RNAseq were performed in order to understand the genetic basis of the observed resistance phenotypes, establish the genomic population diversity, and define the nature of sequence changes over time.

Results

The majority of isolates were resistant to almost all tested antibiotics. A phylogenetic reconstruction revealed 3 major clades representing a genotypically and phenotypically heterogeneous population. The pattern of mutation accumulation and variation of gene expression suggested that a group of closely related strains was present in the patient prior to transplantation and continued to change throughout the course of treatment. A trend toward accumulation of mutations over time was observed. Different mutations in the DNA mismatch repair gene mutL consistent with a hypermutator phenotype were observed in two clades. RNAseq performed on 12 representative isolates revealed substantial differences in the expression of genes associated with antibiotic resistance and virulence traits.

Conclusions

The overwhelming current practice in the clinical laboratories setting relies on obtaining a pure culture and reporting the antibiogram from a few isolated colonies to inform therapy decisions. Our analyses revealed significant underlying genomic heterogeneity and unpredictable evolutionary patterns that were independent of prior antibiotic treatment, highlighting the need for comprehensive sampling and population-level analysis when gathering microbiological data in the context of CF P. aeruginosa chronic infection. Our findings challenge the applicability of antimicrobial stewardship programs based on single-isolate resistance profiles for the selection of antibiotic regimens in chronic infections such as CF.
A modified version of diagonal systematic sampling in the presence of linear trend
Authors: Azeem Muhammad
Published: March 2022

Systematic sampling is one of the simplest and popular methods for selecting a random sample from a finite population. The diagonal systematic sampling scheme is a type of systematic sampling design which has gained the attention of researchers during the last two decades. In this paper, a modification to the conventional diagonal systematic sampling design is proposed for use in situations where population units follow a linear trend. It is found that the proposed strategy reduces the variance of the diagonal systematic sampling thus resulting in an efficient sampling design. The mathematical conditions under which the suggested modified diagonal systematic sampling design is more precise than some of the available sampling designs are derived. With the help of a numerical illustration using milk yield data, it is shown that the proposed sampling scheme is more efficient than some of the available sampling schemes.
Associations between exclusive breastfeeding duration and children’s developmental outcomes: Evidence from Siaya county, Kenya
Authors: Onyango Silas , Kimani-Murage Elizabeth , Kitsao-Wekulo Patricia , Langat Nelson K. , Okelo Kenneth , Obong’o Christopher , Utzinger Jürg , Fink Günther
Published: March 2022

Background

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) during the first 6 months of life is widely promoted as a key strategy to enhance child health, growth, and development. Even though a high proportion of children in Kenya are currently breastfed exclusively, there is little evidence regarding the developmental benefits during the first year of life. This paper aims to fill this gap by establishing an association between EBF and early childhood developmental outcomes among children below the age of 6 months in Kenya.

Methods

We used data collected as part of a cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted in Bondo sub-county in the western part of Kenya to assess the associations between EBF and development in the first year of life. The primary exposure variable was EBF, and the outcome variable was child development as measured by the Ages and Stages Questionnaire–Third Edition (ASQ-3).

Results

We analyzed data from 570 children aged below 6 months at the time of the interview. Breastfeeding children exclusively between 3 and 6 months was associated with 0.61 standard deviation (SD) higher ASQ-3 scores in the adjusted model. When specific domains were considered, in the adjusted models, EBF in the 3–6 months period was associated with 0.44 SD, 0.34 SD and 0.36 SD higher ASQ-3 scores in communication, gross motor, and problem solving domains, respectively. There were weak associations in the fine motor and social-emotional domains.

Conclusion

EBF in the 3- to 6-month age range has significant positive associations with child development, especially for communication, gross motor, and problem-solving. Programs encouraging mothers to continue EBF in this period may have substantial benefits for children.
Integration of cytopathology with molecular tests to improve the lab diagnosis for TBLN suspected patients
Authors: Atnafu Abay , Desta Kassu , Girma Selfu , Hailu Dawit , Assefa Gebeyehu , Araya Shambel , Bekele Dinksira , Wassie Liya , Bobosha Kidist
Published: March 2022

Background

Tuberculosis lymphadenitis (TBLN) diagnosis is often challenging in most resource poor settings. Often cytopathologic diagnosis of TBLN suspected patients is inconclusive impeding timely clinical management of TBLN suspected patients, further exposing suspected patients either for unnecessary use of antibiotics or empirical treatment. This may lead to inappropriate treatment outcome or more suffering of suspected patients from the disease. In this study, an integrated diagnostic approach has been evaluated to elucidate its utility in the identification of TBLN suspected patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 96 clinically diagnosed TBLN suspected patients, where fine needle aspirate (FNA) samples were collected at the time of diagnosis. FNA cytology, Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN), Auramine O (AO) staining, GeneXpert MTB/RIF and Real time PCR (RT-PCR) were performed on concentrated FNA samples. Considering culture as a gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated. Cohen’s Kappa value was used to measure interrater variability and level of agreement and a P-value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Result

Out of the 96 FNA sample, 12 (12.5%) were identified to have Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) using ZN staining, 27 (28.1%) using AO staining, 51 (53.2%) using FNAC, 43 (44.7%) using GeneXpert MTB/RIF, 51 (53.1%) using Real time PCR (RT-PCR) and 36 (37.5%) using Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) culture. Compared to LJ culture, the sensitivities of GeneXpert MTB/RIF, RT-PCR, and FNAC were 91.7%, 97.2%, and 97.2%, respectively and the specificities were 83.3%, 73.3%, and 68.3%, respectively. GeneXpert MTB/RIF and RT-PCR when combined with FNAC detected 61 (63.5%) cases as having Mtb, and the sensitivity and specificity was 100% and 58.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

FNA cytology and RT-PCR detected more TBLN cases compared to other Mtb detection tools and the detection sensitivity even improved when FNA cytology was combined with GeneXpert MTB/RIF, performed on concentrated FNA sample, suggesting the combined tests as an alternative approach for improved diagnosis of TBLN.
Comparing amniotic fluid mass spectrometry assays and amniocyte gene analyses for the prenatal diagnosis of methylmalonic aciduria
Authors: Liu Yupeng , Chen Zhehui , Kang Lulu , He Ruxuan , Song Jinqing , Liu Yi , Shi Chunyan , Chen Junya , Dong Hui , Zhang Yao , Ma Yanyan , Wu Tongfei , Wang Qiao , Ding Yuan , Li Xiyuan , Li Dongxiao , Li Mengqiu , Jin Ying , Qin Jiong , Yang Yanling
Published: March 2022

Background

Methylmalonic aciduria (MMA), a rare inherited disorder, is the most common organic aciduria in China, and prenatal diagnosis has contributed to its prevention. However, the prenatal diagnosis of MMA using cultured amniocytes or chorionic villi to detect gene mutations is exclusively applicable to families with a definite genetic diagnosis. To evaluate the reliability of mass spectrometry assays for the prenatal diagnosis of MMA, we conducted a retrospective study of our 10 years’ experience.

Materials and methods

This retrospective compare study reviewed the medical records for maternal and fetuses data for 287 mothers with a family history of MMA from June 2010 to December 2020. Methylmalonate and propionylcarnitine in cell-free amniotic fluid were measured using a stable isotope dilution method (GC/MS) and MS/MS-based method (LC/MS/MS). Total homocysteine (tHcy) was measured by fluorescence polarization immunoassay. Depending on the presence of disease-causing gene mutations in probands, gene studies on amniocytes from 222 pregnant women were performed.

Results

For 222 fetuses of the families with definite genetic diagnosis, gene analyses were performed using cultured amniocytes. 52 fetuses were affected by MMA, whereas 170 were “unaffected”. For GC/MS and LC/MS/MS, the specificity was 96.5% and 95.9%, sensitivity was 71.2% and 84.6%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 86.0% and 91.6% and 86.3% and 95.3%, respectively. Propionylcarnitine/butyrylcarnitine ratio showed the highest accuracy and could thus serve as a sensitive indicator to identify those at a risk for MMA. When GC/MS and LC/MS/MS were performed in parallel, the specificity was 92.5% and sensitivity was 95.6%. When evaluating tHcy, the positive and negative predictive values were 95.0% and 96.1%, respectively. In 65 fetuses without family genetic diagnosis, 11 were finally confirmed to have MMA and 54 were “unaffected” by amniotic fluid biochemical assays. The 54 children showed normal urine organic acids and healthy development after birth.

Conclusions

Amniotic fluid biochemical assays using GC/MS and LC/MS/MS in parallel increased the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis of MMA. Propionylcarnitine is a more reliable marker than methylmalonic acid in amniotic fluid. Further, tHcy is recommended for the prenatal diagnosis of combined MMA and homocysteinemia.
Nuclear microRNA-466c regulates Vegfa expression in response to hypoxia
Authors: Laitinen Pia , Väänänen Mari-Anna , Kolari Ida-Liisa , Mäkinen Petri I. , Kaikkonen Minna U. , Weinberg Marc S. , Morris Kevin V. , Korhonen Paula , Malm Tarja , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo , Roberts Thomas C. , Turunen Mikko P. , Turunen Tiia A.
Published: March 2022

MicroRNAs are well characterized in their role in silencing gene expression by targeting 3´-UTR of mRNAs in cytoplasm. However, recent studies have shown that miRNAs have a role in the regulation of genes in the nucleus, where they are abundantly located. We show here that in mouse endothelial cell line (C166), nuclear microRNA miR-466c participates in the regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor a (Vegfa) gene expression in hypoxia. Upregulation of Vegfa expression in response to hypoxia was significantly compromised after removal of miR-466c with CRISPR-Cas9 genomic deletion. We identified a promoter-associated long non-coding RNA on mouse Vegfa promoter and show that miR-466c directly binds to this transcript to modulate Vegfa expression. Collectively, these observations suggest that miR-466c regulates Vegfa gene transcription in the nucleus by targeting the promoter, and expands on our understanding of the role of miRNAs well beyond their canonical role.
Sex differences in the early life stages of the salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Copepoda: Caligidae)
Authors: Borchel Andreas , Komisarczuk Anna Zofia , Nilsen Frank
Published: March 2022

Salmon lice are ectoparasites on salmonids and feed on blood, mucus, and skin from their hosts. This causes high annual costs for treatment and control for the aquaculture industry. Salmon lice have a life cycle consisting of eight life stages. Sex determination by eye is only possible from the sixth stage onwards. A molecular sex determination has not been carried out so far, even though few individual sex-linked SNPs have been reported. In the present study, we used known sex-specific SNPs as a basis to sequence the complete sex-specific gene variants and used the sequence information to develop a sex determination assay. This assay could be used to determine the developmental speed of the two sexes already in the earliest life stages. Additionally, we sampled salmon lice in the nauplius II stage, determined the sex of each individual, pooled their RNA according to their sex, and used RNA sequencing to search for differences in gene expression and further sex-specific SNPs. We succeeded in developing a sex-determination assay that works on DNA or RNA from even the earliest larval stages of the salmon louse after hatching. At these early developmental stages, male salmon lice develop slightly quicker than females. We detected several previously unknown, sex-specific SNPs in our RNA-data seq, but only very few genes showed a differential expression between the sexes. Potential connections between SNPs, gene expression, and development are discussed.
The functioning of different beetle (Coleoptera) sampling methods across altitudinal gradients in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Musthafa Muneeb M. , Abdullah Fauziah , Koivula Matti J.
Published: March 2022

Biodiversity research relies largely on knowledge about species responses to environmental gradients, assessed using some commonly applied sampling method. However, the consistency of detected responses using different sampling methods, and thus the generality of findings, has seldom been assessed in tropical ecosystems. Hence, we studied the response consistency and indicator functioning of beetle assemblages in altitudinal gradients from two mountains in Malaysia, using Malaise, light, and pitfall traps. The data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed-effects models (GLMM), non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), multivariate regression trees (MRT), and indicator species analysis (IndVal). We collected 198 morpho-species of beetles representing 32 families, with a total number of 3,052 individual beetles. The richness measures generally declined with increasing altitude. The mountains differed little in terms of light and Malaise trap data but differed remarkably in pitfall-trap data. Only light traps (but not the other trap types) distinguished high from middle or low altitudes in terms of beetle richness and assemblage composition. The lower altitudes hosted about twice as many indicators as middle or high altitudes, and many species were trap-type specific in our data. These results suggest that the three sampling methods reflected the altitudinal gradient in different ways and the detection of community variation in the environment thus depends on the chosen sampling method. However, also the analytical approach appeared important, further underlining the need to use multiple methods in environmental assessments.
Structural equation model of psychological constructs of transtheoretical model, motives for physical activity, and amount of physical activity among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malaysia
Authors: Hidrus Aizuddin , Kueh Yee Cheng , Norsa’adah Bachok , Kim YoungHo , Chang Yu-Kai , Kuan Garry
Published: March 2022

Background

This study aimed determine the structural relationship between psychological constructs of the transtheoretical model (TTM; processes of change, decisional balance, and exercise self-efficacy), motives for physical activity (PA), and amount of PA among Malaysians with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Method

All participants were recruited from the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia using a cross-sectional study design with purposive) sampling method. A total of 331 participants were recruited for the present study. Before participation in the study, they were informed that participation in the study was totally voluntary. Those who agreed to participate voluntarily were required to complete the self-administered questionnaire set, which included the processes of change, decisional balance, exercise self-efficacy, physical activity and leisure motivation, and international physical activity questionnaires. Data analysis of structural equation modeling was performed using Mplus 8.

Results

From the 331 participants, most of whom were male (52%) and Malay (89.4%), with a mean age of 62.6 years (standard deviation = 10.29). The final structural equation model fit the data well based on several fit indices [Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.059, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.953, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.925, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) = 0.031]. A total of 16 significant path relationships linked between the TTM, motives for PA, and amount of PA.

Conclusion

The pros of decisional balance, others’ expectations, and psychological condition were constructs that directly affected PA, whereas the other constructs had a significant indirect relationship with the amount of PA. A positive mindset is crucial in deciding a behavioral change toward an active lifestyle in people with T2DM.
Pregnancy loss and risk of multiple sclerosis and autoimmune neurological disorder: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Mikkelsen Anders Pretzmann , Egerup Pia , Kolte Astrid Marie , Westergaard David , Nielsen Henriette Svarre , Lidegaard Øjvind
Published: March 2022

Background

The loss of one or more pregnancies before viability (i.e. pregnancy loss or miscarriage), has been linked to an increased risk of diseases later in life such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Recurrent pregnancy loss (i.e. three consecutive pregnancy losses) and multiple sclerosis have both been linked to immunological traits, which could predispose to both occurrences. The objective of the current study was to investigate if pregnancy loss is associated with later autoimmune neurological disease.

Methods

This register-based cohort study, included the Danish female population age 12 or older between 1977–2017. Women were grouped hierarchically: 0, 1, 2, ≥3 pregnancy losses, primary recurrent pregnancy loss (i.e. not preceded by a delivery), and secondary recurrent pregnancy loss (i.e. preceded by a delivery). The main outcome was multiple sclerosis and additional outcomes were amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myasthenia gravis. Bayesian Poisson regression estimated incidence rate ratios [IRR] and 95% credible intervals [CI] adjusted for year, age, live births, family history of an outcome, and education.

Results

After 40,380,194 years of follow-up, multiple sclerosis was diagnosed among 7,667 out of 1,513,544 included women (0.5%), median age at diagnosis 34.2 years (IQR 27.4–41.4 years), and median age at symptom onset 31.2 years (IQR 24.8–38.2). The adjusted IRR of multiple sclerosis after 1 pregnancy loss was: 1.03 (95% CI 0.95–1.11), 2 losses: 1.02 (95% CI 0.86–1.20), ≥3 non-consecutive losses: 0.81 (95% CI 0.51–1.24), primary recurrent pregnancy loss: 1.18 (95% CI 0.84–1.60), secondary recurrent pregnancy loss: 1.16 (95% CI 0.81–1.63), as compared to women with no pregnancy losses. Seven sensitivity analyses and analyses for additional outcomes did not show significantly elevated adjusted risk estimates.

Conclusions

In this nationwide study, pregnancy loss was not significantly associated with autoimmune neurological disorder.
The effect of droplet size on syntrophic dynamics in droplet-enabled microbial co-cultivation
Authors: Tan James Y. , Saleski Tatyana E. , Lin Xiaoxia Nina
Published: March 2022

Co-cultivation in microfluidic droplets has emerged as a versatile tool for the study of natural and synthetic microbial communities. In particular, the identification and characterization of syntrophic interactions in these communities is attracting increasing interest due to their critical importance for the functioning of environmental and host-associated communities as well as new biotechnological applications. However, one critical parameter in droplet-enabled co-cultivation that has evaded appropriate evaluation is the droplet size. Given the same number of initial cells, a larger droplet size can increase the length scale secreted metabolites must diffuse as well as dilute the initial concentration of cells and exchanged metabolites, impacting the community dynamics. To evaluate the effect of droplet size on a spectrum of syntrophic interactions, we cultivated a synthetic model system consisting of two E. coli auxotrophs, whose interactions could be modulated through supplementation of related amino acids in the medium. Our results demonstrate that the droplet size impacts substantially numerous aspects of the growth of a cross-feeding bi-culture, particularly the growth capacity, maximum specific growth rate, and lag time, depending on the degree of the interaction. This work heavily suggests that one droplet size does not fit all types of interactions; this parameter should be carefully evaluated and chosen in experimental studies that aim to utilize droplet-enabled co-cultivation to characterize or elucidate microbial interactions.
Impact of ACA implementation on health related quality of life among those with depressive disorders in the United States: A secondary data analysis of the 2011-2017 BRFSS
Authors: Mazurek Kathryn , Xue Wei , Beldon Marissa
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The passage of the Affordable Care Act in the US resulted in more Americans with health insurance coverage as well as expanded health benefits. However, barriers in accessing health care still exist in the US especially as it relates to some of the most vulnerable Americans including those with depressive disorders. The purpose of this cross-sectional secondary data analysis was to examine the differences in health-related quality of life for individuals with depressive disorders in early years of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act as compared to later years of implementation.

Methods

This study used a repeated cross-sectional design that pooled data from the 2011–2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System which is a nationally representative survey of the non-institutionalized U.S. population. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the before and after impact of the Affordable Care Act on health related quality of life for those with depressive disorders.

Results

Those with depressive disorders in early years of implementation of the Affordable Care Act were less likely to report 14 or more days of poor physical health (AOR  =  0.96; 95% CI: 0.95, 0.98), were less likely to report 14 or more days of poor mental health (AOR  =  0.93; 95% CI: 0.92, 0.94), and less likely to report 14 or more days of overall poor physical and mental health (AOR  =  0.93; 95% CI: 0.90, 0.96) as opposed to later years of implementation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate poorer health related quality of life for those with depressive disorders in later years of implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Despite expanded mental health benefits under the Affordable Care Act, those benefits do not always translate into improved access or improved patient-reported outcomes. The federal government needs to comprehensively address mental health services in order to improve patient-reported outcomes and mental health treatment for those with depression.
Profiling of the most reliable mutations from sequenced SARS-CoV-2 genomes scattered in Uzbekistan
Authors: Ayubov Mirzakamol S. , Buriev Zabardast T. , Mirzakhmedov Mukhammadjon K. , Yusupov Abdurakhmon N. , Usmanov Dilshod E. , Shermatov Shukhrat E. , Ubaydullaeva Khurshida A. , Abdurakhmonov Ibrokhim Y.
Published: March 2022

Due to rapid mutations in the coronavirus genome over time and re-emergence of multiple novel variants of concerns (VOC), there is a continuous need for a periodic genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 genotypes of particular region. This is for on-time development of diagnostics, monitoring and therapeutic tools against virus in the global pandemics condition. Toward this goal, we have generated 18 high-quality whole-genome sequence data from 32 SARS-CoV-2 genotypes of PCR-positive COVID-19 patients, sampled from the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan. The nucleotide polymorphisms in the sequenced sample genomes were determined, including nonsynonymous (missense) and synonymous mutations in coding regions of coronavirus genome. Phylogenetic analysis grouped fourteen whole genome sample sequences (1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10–15, 17, 32) into the G clade (or GR sub-clade) and four whole genome sample sequences (3, 6, 25, 27) into the S clade. A total of 128 mutations were identified, consisting of 45 shared and 83 unique mutations. Collectively, nucleotide changes represented one unique frameshift mutation, four upstream region mutations, six downstream region mutations, 50 synonymous mutations, and 67 missense mutations. The sequence data, presented herein, is the first coronavirus genomic sequence data from the Republic of Uzbekistan, which should contribute to enrich the global coronavirus sequence database, helping in future comparative studies. More importantly, the sequenced genomic data of coronavirus genotypes of this study should be useful for comparisons, diagnostics, monitoring, and therapeutics of COVID-19 disease in local and regional levels.
Life’s a Beach…
Authors: Verhoeven Deb
Published: March 2022

Sydney is a littoral city. Defined in equal measure by shell-grit and froth, the city is skirted by no less than a hundred lapping beaches. One or two of these have determinedly prized themselves from Sydney’s sandy pull to become internationally iconic ‘branded beaches’, due in no small part to their repeated appearance on screens of different sizes. Bondi, Manly, Coogee, Palm, Cronulla are beach names with a notoriety that now extends well beyond their shores.
The Tourist Gaze: Hollywood and the European Holiday
Authors: Sloan Anna
Published: March 2022

British and American travellers have for decades been infatuated by the powerful myth of Italy – its sun-drenched vistas, sumptuous cuisine and beautiful, passionate men and women (so the myth goes). Italy for such travellers is the ultimate antidote to dreary, lonely urban life in London or New York. And Venice is the ne plus ultra of this myth; only Rome rivals it for touristic allure to wayfarers from the Anglo-American metropolis.
Experimental Filmmaking and Punk: Feminist Audio Visual Culture in the 1970s and 1980s, Rachel Garfield (2022)
Authors: Forster Tim
Published: March 2022

Review of: Experimental Filmmaking and Punk: Feminist Audio Visual Culture in the 1970s and 1980s, Rachel Garfield (2022)

London and New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 288 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78831-399-5, h/bk, £75
Dinosauro teropodoen hortzak eta dietan duten islapena
Authors: Isasmendi Erik , Badiola Ainara , Pereda-Suberbiola Xabier
Published: March 2022

Dinosauro teropodoak nahiko urriak dira erregistro fosilean eta, askotan, aurkitutako fosil bakarrak hortz isolatuak dira. Teropodoen hortzekin, ordea, azterketa paleontologiko anitz egin daitezke, metodologia kualitatibo eta kuantitatibo mota desberdinak erabiliz. Hortzetatik abiatuz, teropodoen biosistematika burutu eta talde honen erregistro fosila eta paleobiodibertsitatea ezagutu daitezke, baita hainbat diziplina paleobiologikoren azterketa egin ere, hala nola paleoekologia (iraganeko bizidunek beren artean eta ingurunearekin duten erlazioaren azterketa) eta paleobiogeografia (iraganeko bizidunen banaketa biogeografikoaren azterketa). Azterketa paleoekologiko bat dinosauro hauen dieta ezagutzea litzateke. Teropodoen lehendabiziko ordezkariek hortz zifodontoak (laban itxurakoak) zituzten; hortz hauek aproposak dira haragia ebakitzeko. Hortz pakidontoek (banana gisakoak) zifodontoek baino erresistentzia handiagoa erakusten dute. Kate trofikoaren goialdean dauden teropodo haragijaleetan agertzen dira eta hezurrak txikitzea eta haragian ebakidura zabalak egitea ahalbidetzen zieten dinosauroei. Hortzeria konidontoa (hortz lateral konikodun hortzeria) zulatzeko eta harrapakinak eusteko da egokia, eta dinosauro iktiofago, herbiboro eta intsektiboro batzuetan garatu zen. Hortzeria folidontodun teropodoei, hau da, hosto itxurako hortzak dituztenei, dieta mota ezberdinak esleitu zaizkie; hala nola haragijalea, intsektiboroa, omniboroa edo herbiboroa. Nahiz eta dinosauro teropodoek hortzeria mota ezberdinak izan, batzuek hortzen galera erakusten dute. Edentulismoa (hortzen galera partziala edo osoa) teropodo talde ezberdinetan gertatu zen independenteki. Edentulismoaren zergatia jorratzen duten hipotesi asko proposatu diren arren, argi dago hortz gabeko moko batek funtzio asko bete ditzakeela, dietan besteak beste, eta, beraz, berrikuntza ebolutibo garrantzitsua izan zela dinosauro teropodo ez-hegaztietan eta hegaztietan. Izan ere, gaur egun, hortz gabeko hegaztiak dira bizirik dirauten dinosauro bakarrak.
2D:4D indizearen zeharkako neurketa: software bidezko irudien analisiaren behatzaile arteko/barneko fidagarritasuna
Authors: Babarro Izaro , Andiarena Ainara , Fano Eduardo , Lertxundi Nerea , Ibarluzea Jesus
Published: March 2022

Sexu hormonek eragina dute garunaren garapenean, egituretan eta funtzionamenduan, eta, ondorioz, gizakion jokaeran. Haurdunaldiko hormona-esposizio mailen adierazle bat da 2D:4D indizea. Indize honen fidagarritasunaren inguruko ikerketek erakutsi dutenez, 2D:4D indizea neurtzeko metodo fidagarria da ordenagailuko irudien analisirako programak erabiltzea. Hau horrela izanik ere, ez dago adostasunik erabili beharreko programa egokienaren inguruan. Lan honen helburuak bi dira: 2D:4D ratioa neurtzeko erabili diren bi softwareen fidagarritasuna aztertzea (behatzaile-barneko eta behatzaile arteko fidagarritasunari erreparatuz) eta neurketen ekonomia ezagutzea. Horretarako, 11 urteko 180 parte-hartzaileren eskuetako eskanerrak jaso ziren. Neurketak irudien analisirako ordenagailuko bi programa erabiliz egin ziren (GIMP eta AutoMetrik). Emaitzek erakutsi dute, nahiz eta AutoMetrik programa bizkorragoa izan, GIMP programak behatzaile-barneko eta behatzaile arteko fidagarritasun altuagoa erakusten duela. Ondorio gisa esan daiteke 2D:4D indizearen neurketak egiteko irudien analisia erabiltzen duten metodoen desberdintasunak ikertzen dituzten lan gutxi daudenez, ikerketa gehiago egin beharko liratekeela gai honen inguruan.
Unibertsitate iraunkorragoaren alde: Vitoria-Gasteizko Ingeniaritza Eskolako hondakinen kudeaketaren azterketa
Authors: Rojo Naiara , Saralegi Ainara , Alvarez Jon
Published: March 2022

Unibertsitateak gizarte-aldaketaren eragiletzat hartzen dira eta, ondorioz, zeregin garrantzitsua dute ezagutza, ikerketa, berrikuntza, garapen ekonomikoa eta gizarte-ongizatea sortzen eta zabaltzen, etengabeko konpromisoa erakutsiz garapen jasangarriarekin. Honela, Euskal Herriko Unibertsitateak (UPV/EHUk) bere gizarte-, ekonomia- eta ingurumen-politika planak eta praktikak gizartearentzat eredugarri izan daitezen zehazten ditu, «Garapen Iraunkorrerako EHUagenda 2030» dokumentuan esaterako. Bertan, gogoeta sakona egiten da garapen iraunkorreko 17 helbururen eta oparotasun ekonomikoa, gizarteratzea eta ingurumen-jasangarritasuna sustatzeko 169 helmugaren inguruan, dokumentua ibilbide-orritzat hartuz eta Unibertsitatearen lana planetaren erronka handienekin lerrokatuz. Aldi berean, UPV/EHUk, Campus Bizia Lab ekimenarekin, aipatu berri diren alderdiak indartu nahi ditu unibertsitate-komunitatearen artean (irakasleen, ikertzaileen, zerbitzu eta administrazioko langileen, eta ikasleriaren artean). Lan honetan, aurkeztu egiten dira Campus Bizia Lab ekimenaren barruan «EKINTZA-MURRIZTEA. Lege klasikoak berrasmatzea gure Campusaren etorkizun iraunkorrago baterako: kontsumoak eta hondakinak murrizteko ekintzak» proiektuaren baitan lortu diren hainbat emaitza. Proiektu honen helburuetariko bat izan da Vitoria-Gasteizko Ingeniaritza Eskolako hiri-hondakinen eta hondakin arriskutsuen sorkuntza aztertzea, haien kudeaketa optimizatzea eta sorkuntza minimizatzea ahalbidetuko duten jarduerak azaltzea. Horretarako, hondakin mota horien bilketa-, erregistro- eta biltegiratze-prozedurak zehatz-mehatz aztertu dira, eta topatu diren akatsak edo efizientzia gutxiko alderdiak hobetu dira. Gainera, Eskolan azken 5 ikasturteetan sortutako hiri-hondakinen eta hondakin arriskutsuen inguruko datuak aztertu dira, emaitzen argitan hondakinen sorkuntza murrizten lagun dezaketen hobekuntza-ekintzak edo ideiak proposatzeko eta aplikatzeko, eta EHUagenda 2030 helburuekin lerrokatuz, hondakinen inguruan unibertsitate-komunitate sentsibilizatuagoa lortzeko bidean aurrera egiten laguntzeko.
(In)visibilidades estratégicas de las religiones en la ciudad de Madrid
Authors: Esteso Carolina , Martín-Andino Borja
Published: March 2022

Uno de los efectos de la secularización, junto al decaimiento de la práctica religiosa y la privatización de lo religioso, ha sido la asimilación entre lo urbano y lo secular, como han venido señalando tanto la sociología weberiana de la religión como los enfoques materialistas de la historia y la economía urbana. Sin embargo, aunque hace unas décadas la ciudad era el escenario privilegiado de la separación entre Iglesia y Estado, hoy es la arena principal del pluralismo religioso y del activismo postsecularista. En este nuevo contexto, actores religiosos muy diversos entre sí comparecen en el espacio público urbano buscando una visibilidad estratégica que mejore su integración en la vida social de la ciudad, que dé continuidad o incremente su comunidad de fieles, o incluso que facilite la salvación colectiva. ¿Qué hace cada uno de ellos en el espacio público? ¿Qué estrategias de visibilidad desarrollan? Si bien se asume que los eventos religiosos en el espacio público ponen en juego la visibilidad de los actores confesionales, las convenciones sociales acerca de lo religioso, así como los estereotipos acerca de cada una de las confesiones, hacen que cada grupo se comporte de forma distinta en el manejo de su visibilidad en función de la legibilidad/disonancia de su religiosidad.
Religión y espacio público en los tiempos de la globalización
Authors: Bokser Liwerant Judit
Published: March 2022

Este texto fue originalmente publicado por Judit Bokser Liwerant en el año 2008 en forma de capítulo en el libro Los retos de la laicidad y la secularización en el mundo contemporáneo, coordinado por Roberto Blancarte para la editorial de El Colegio de México. En él la autora da cuenta de la centralidad que ha adquirido el fenómeno religioso en la época contemporánea, enmarcado por el carácter multidimensional y contradictorio de los procesos de globalización, así como por los cambios que rebasan la tradicional división entre lo privado y lo público. De igual manera, analiza los avatares de lo religioso en la modernidad y las complejas dinámicas de la secularización y la laicidad. Finalmente, explica la reconfiguración de los límites entre legalidad y moralidad, entre individuo y sociedad, entre familia, sociedad civil y Estado, así como el proceso de globalización que ha generado nuevas identidades e influido sobre el resurgimiento del fenómeno religioso a un nivel colectivo.
Disrupción tecnológica en forma de innovación y avances en la calidad del empleo: Una aproximación teórica
Authors: Calzada-González Alicia , Parra-Domínguez Javier , Pérez-Pons Eugenia , Rodríguez-González Sara
Published: March 2022

«Innovación tecnológica es el complejo proceso que lleva las ideas al mercado en forma de nuevos o mejorados productos o servicios». A causa de la mayor liberalización de los mercados, en los últimos tiempos el mundo, así como las relaciones económicas internacionales, se han convertido en un conjunto de redes interconectadas, lo cual ha fomentado los efectos derivados de Internet. La llegada de la Industria 4.0 con tecnologías como Big Data, la impresora 3D o la inteligencia artificial, la domótica o la quinta generación de telefonía móvil –5G– han supuesto cambios disruptivos. El reto presente del mercado laboral es hacer frente a estas novedades, motivando la adaptación del sistema educativo bajo la finalidad de otorgar herramientas a la sociedad para ser capaz de satisfacer la demanda de nuevas habilidades, paliar el posible incremento de la desigualdad por medio de políticas o encontrar un equilibrio para evitar la polarización sectorial. El presente artículo se enfoca en analizar –dentro de un margen temporal determinado– y, desde un punto de vista teórico, si la implementación de nuevas innovaciones en el proceso productivo ha derivado en una mejora de la calidad del empleo.
BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGIES TO IMPLEMENT TRACEABILITY IN THE FARM TO FORK CHAINS
Authors: Margarida Cachada Ana , Badikyan Hasmik , Anzola-Rojas Camilo , Parra Javier , Prieta Fernando de la , Leitão Paulo
Published: March 2022

Agriculture traceability demands a large volume of data that needs to be collected across the supply chain. Very early tracking and traceability systems used workers to record the information manually which entails risks, such as faulty information recording as well as inefficient resource usage. The implementation of tamper proof semi-automated digital ledgers will have a great impact on issues such as compliance with regulations, food provenance, food fraud, and many others, and therefore will gradually increase the trust within the supply chain. This paper provides an overview on the different stages of the AgriFood supply chain and of the fundamentals of a Distributed Ledger Technology, namely Blockchain, which can be used to mitigate some of the issues related to transparency and traceability of this sector. It also presents some solutions that already implement this technology to enable the traceability in the AgriFood sector. The authors also present the most important challenges and opportunities identify regarding the application of Blockchain based traceability systems for the AgriFood supply chain.
Experiences in Developing Predictive Maintenance Solutions
Authors: Alves Filipe , Meira Jorge , Marreiros Goreti , Leitão Paulo
Published: March 2022

In industrial manufacturing environments, a regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the production efficiency, since the occurrence of unexpected disturbances leads to a degradation of the system performance, causing the loss of productivity and business opportunities. In this context, the purpose of predictive maintenance has been receiving increasingly more attention, which when well performed, can be a strategic factor in achieving corporate goals. The predictive maintenance, framed as an important issue in Industry 4.0, is able to anticipate problems or emergencies before they happen, bringing huge advantages to industries that allow them to optimize their results and obtain greater efficiency and profitability of equipment. For that reason, more and more Companies are understanding that the equipment conservation and conditionbased maintenance can contribute to increase their competitiveness. This paper focuses on the topic of predictive maintenance, its benefits, applications and challenges, complemented with the description of predictive maintenance applications, illustrated with two examples of real- world applications resulting from the experiences of the Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP) and the Instituto Politécnico de Bragança (IPB) in previous R&D projects.
Pearls and Pitfalls of Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Authors: Kim Hyoungmin , Chang Bong-Soon , Chang Sam Yeol
Published: March 2022

Lumbar degenerative disease is a common problem in an aging society. Oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) is a minimally invasive surgical (MIS) technique that utilizes a retroperitoneal antepsoas corridor to treat lumbar degenerative disease. OLIF has theoretical advantages over other lumbar fusion techniques, such as a lower risk of lumbar plexus injury than direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF). Previous studies have reported favorable clinical and radiological outcomes of OLIF in various lumbar degenerative diseases. The use of OLIF is increasing, and evidence on OLIF is growing in the literature. The indications for OLIF are also expanding with the help of recent technical developments, including stereotactic navigation systems and robotics. In this review, we present current evidence on OLIF for the treatment of lumbar degenerative disease, focusing on the expansion of surgical indications and recent advancements in the OLIF procedure.
Mechanical Failure After Total En Bloc Spondylectomy and Salvage Surgery
Authors: Kwon Shin Won , Chung Chun Kee , Won Young Il , Yuh Woon Tak , Park Sung Bae , Yang Seung Heon , Lee Chang Hyun , Rhee John M. , Kim Kyoung-Tae , Kim Chi Heon
Published: March 2022

Objective: Total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) is a curative surgical method for spinal tumors. After resecting the 3 spinal columns, reconstruction is of paramount importance. We present cases of mechanical failure and suggest strategies for salvage surgery.Methods: The medical records of 19 patients who underwent TES (9 for primary tumors and 10 for metastatic tumors) were retrospectively reviewed. Previously reported surgical techniques were used, and the surgical extent was 1 level in 16 patients and 2 levels in 3 patients. A titanium-based mesh-type interbody spacer filled with autologous and cadaveric bone was used for anterior support, and a pedicle screw/rod system was used for posterior support. Radiotherapy was performed in 11 patients (pre-TES, 5; post-TES, 6). They were followed up for 59 ± 38 months (range, 11–133 months).Results: During follow-up, 8 of 9 primary tumor patients (89%) and 5 of 10 metastatic tumor patients (50%) survived (mean survival time, 124 ± 8 months vs. 51 ± 13 months; p = 0.11). Mechanical failure occurred in 3 patients (33%) with primary tumors and 2 patients (20%) with metastatic tumors (p = 0.63). The mechanical failure-free time was 94.4 ± 14 months (primary tumors, 95 ± 18 months; metastatic tumors, 68 ± 16 months; p = 0.90). Revision surgery was performed in 4 of 5 patients, and bilateral broken rods were replaced with dual cobalt-chromium alloy rods. Repeated rod fractures occurred in 1 of 4 patients 2 years later, and the third operation (with multiple cobalt-chromium alloy rods) was successful for over 6 years.Conclusion: Considering the difficulty of reoperation and patients’ suffering, preemptive use of a multiple-rod system may be advisable.
Mechanisms of Action of Current Pharmacologic Options for the Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Constipation
Authors: Sayuk Gregory S. , Waldman Scott A. , Brenner Darren M.
Published: March 2022

Multiple therapeutic agents are currently available for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. A better understanding of the mechanism of action of each treatment provides important insights into expected responses and is key to optimizing treatment outcomes. Some constipation treatments, such as stimulant laxatives, may increase bowel movement frequency but are ineffective at relieving, and may even exacerbate, abdominal symptoms. On the contrary, prescription treatments, such as the guanylyl cyclase-C agonists, for example, may improve bowel symptoms and reduce visceral hypersensitivity. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action of commonly used over-the-counter and prescription therapies for chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, outlining how these mechanisms contribute to the efficacy and safety of each treatment option.
Burden of Constipation: Looking Beyond Bowel Movements
Authors: Harris Lucinda A. , Chang Christopher H.
Published: March 2022

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) are associated with significant social and economic burdens. To address these burdens, a deeper understanding of their root causes is required. A discrepancy exists between patients' and healthcare providers' (HCPs) perceptions of constipation symptoms and the impact of symptoms associated with CIC and IBS-C. Compared with the HCPs' perceptions of patients' symptoms, a greater percentage of patients report acceptance and feeling in control of their CIC or IBS-C symptoms. Unfortunately, only one-third of individuals with CIC or IBS-C formally consult an HCP about their constipation. Fewer than half take medications, and these are generally over-the-counter therapies rather than prescription therapies. For those who seek help, only one-fifth feel that their constipation symptoms are well managed. Notable sex and cultural differences exist regarding individuals consulting their HCP about constipation. Many individuals with CIC and IBS-C remain inadequately managed and unduly affected, contributing to the high social and economic burden of these conditions.
The Surge of Environmental Social and Governance Reporting and Sustainable Development Goals: Some Normative Thoughts
Authors: de Silva Lokuwaduge Chitra S , Smark Ciorstan , Mir Monir
Published: March 2022

The rising demand for Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure by stakeholders has created a new tide of sustainability reporting, including Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With this new rising tide, the need for enhanced credibility in ESG information has stimulated the development of carbon accounting, ESG disclosure measures and regulations around the world. The aim of this article is to analyse the risks and opportunities of ESG practices and the impact of different stakeholders on the measures, tools and frameworks, including SDGs used among different sectors to report sustainability performance. This study finds that business leaders worldwide have an opportunity to use transparent information about ESG risks and opportunities to promote more effective engagement with investors and other stakeholders and global, national and organisational leaders have a legal and ethical responsibility to deliver sustainable outcomes to their global and local communities.