bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short Communication: Diversity, biomass, and carbon stock of seagrass community in three coastal waters of Minahasa Peninsula, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: WAGEY BILLY T. , PARUNTU CAROLUS , LASABUDA RIDWAN , KAMBEY ALEX
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Wagey BT, Paruntu C, Lasabuda R, Kambey A. 2023. Short Communication: Diversity, biomass, and carbon stock of seagrass community in three coastal waters of Minahasa Peninsula, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1793-1798. Seagrasses are well-known for their ecological and economic importance. However, just like any other ecosystem, seagrass meadows around the world are threatened by anthropogenic activities. This paper aimed to analyze the seagrass abundance (expressed as shoot density), richness, diversity, biomass, and carbon stocks in three locations in the Minahasa Peninsula of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Transect survey techniques were conducted in Bajo, Bolsel and Bunaken. The study recorded 8 species across the three locations with Bolsel having the highest number of species (7), followed by Bajo (6) and Bunaken (4). Seagrass species differed significantly in terms of shoot density across the sampling locations in which denser shoots were observed for the eelgrass (Enhalus acoroides) at Bolsel while the other two species (Thalassia hemprichii and Cymodocea rotundata) were least abundant at the Bunaken site. Seagrass cover did not vary significantly between sites. With the exception of Bunaken, above-ground and below-ground biomasses, as well as carbon stock, did not differ among locations. The lower species diversity as well as above-ground biomass and carbon stocks in Bunaken were likely due to grazing by herbivores (e.g., fish and sea urchins) and tourism activities (e.g., boat traffic, diving, snorkeling). Grazing effects and human tourism activities should be included in future investigations to monitor the dynamics of seagrass biomass and carbon stocks in the area. This study provides baseline information that can be used to better manage the seagrass ecosystems, not only in the Minahasa Peninsula but in Indonesian waters and even beyond.
Composition, diversity and association of pioneer plants on post-landslide areas in Palopo, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: NURYANTI DEWI MARWATI , LIANA LIANA , WITNO WITNO , SOMA ANDANG SURYANA , ASRIANNY ASRIANNY , AYU SRIDA MITRA , AWALIA INDAH MIN
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Nuryanti DM, Liana, Witno, Soma AS, Asrianny, Ayu SM, Awalia IM. 2023. Composition, diversity and association of pioneer plants on post-landslide areas in Palopo, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 1862-1870. The existence of pioneer plants is very important because of their role in initiating vegetation succession as well as regulators of the physical properties of a disturbed environment. Landslide is one type of environmental disturbance that causes vegetation loss, either partially or entirely. In many cases, several pioneer plants start to appear following a landslide. This study aims to assess the vegetation composition, diversity and interspecific association of plant species in post-landslide areas in Palopo City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. We employed sampling plot methods with a size of 5 x 5 m2 in 12 landslide sites with varying landslide characteristics during the period of 2021 to 2022. Vegetation composition was analyzed using Important Value Index and an interspecies association was analyzed using Chi-square analysis. The results of the study found that the pioneer plants on post-landslides consisted of a total of 112 species which can be classified into eight habitus, namely bamboo, herbaceous, vines, ferns, palms, shrubs, trees and bushes. Herbaceous plants had the largest number of species, with 53 species. Species with the highest IVI for tree was Trema orientalis (L.) Blume (79.86%), shrub was Homalanthus populifolius Graham (61.49%), bush was unidentified species (53.41%), fern was Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) C.Presl (6.99%), vines was Merremia peltata (L.) Merr. (57.92%), herbaceous was Miconia papillosa (Desr.) Naudin (22.65%), while palm was Pandanus tectorius Parkinson ex Du Roi and bamboo was Bambusa balcoa Roxb. each had IVI of 200% because only one species was found. The results of the diversity analysis showed that trees, shrubs, bushes, ferns, vines and herbs had a moderate level of species diversity, while palm and bamboo had a low diversity level. Similarly, trees, shrubs, bushes, ferns, and vines had high evenness levels, while bamboo and palm had low evenness index. There were three associations between dominant plants, namely B. balcoa with T. orientalis, B. balcoa with H. populifolius, and B. balcoa with Macroptilium atropurpureum (DC.) Urb. The findings of this study suggest that in just one year, pioneer plants rapidly colonized post-landslide areas which provided vegetation cover for the open landscape.
Chemical composition and antimicrobial effect of Melissa officinalis and Angelica sylvestris on selected microbial pathogens
Authors: SALEH RASHA HADI , OMRAN ASEEL MOHAMMAD , BASH HALA SAAD
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Saleh RH, Omran AM, Bash HS. 2023. Chemical composition and antimicrobial effect of Melissa officinalis and Angelica sylvestris on selected microbial pathogens. Biodiversitas 24: 1871-1877. Melissa officinalis L. and Angelica sylvestris L. have been used for traditional herbal medicines due to their antimicrobial action against pathogenic microbes. The purpose of this research was to determine the chemical content of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of M. officinalis and A. sylvestris and their antimicrobial activity against selected bacteria and fungi. This study was done from March 2022 to July 2022. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was carried out against three bacterial isolates (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and one fungal isolate (Candida albicans). The fungal isolate was isolated from the different patients. The concentrations of extracts were 10, 20, 30, 40 mg/mL. The antimicrobial activity was performed using agar diffusion methods and compared to standard gentamycin and fluconazole disc. It has been shown that the major phytochemical composition in M. officinalis and A. sylvestris aqueous and ethanolic extracts were: alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, and flavonoids. The extracts of M. officinalis and A. sylvestris exhibit different antimicrobial activity against the tested microorganisms, and their activity increased with increasing extract concentration. Melissa officinalis extracts inhibited the growth of all tested microorganisms except C. albicans. Aqueous and ethanol extracts of M. officinalis were more effective against E. coli. A. sylvestris aqueous extract was the most effective against S. aureus. The most potent antimicrobial activity of the ethanolic extract was detected against K. pneumoniae. The antimicrobial properties of M. officinalis and A. sylvestris are related to their chemical compounds, such as phenols, alkaloids, glycosides, and flavonoids. Both plants extract showed good inhibition against most microorganisms. Based on the research results, M. officinalis and A. sylvestris are potential new sources of antimicrobial agents.
A new strain of bacteria isolated from chemically saturated corn rhizosphere under the dominance of the mineral kaolinite
Authors: SUKMAWATI SUKMAWATI , RAHIM IRADHATULLAH , HARSANI HARSANI , SYAFNUR ASWAR , ARODHISKARA YADI , SELAO AHMAD , ANISA LUKI FATHIA NURUL
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Sukmawati, Rahim I, Harsani, Syafnur A, Arodhiskara Y, Selao A, Anisa LFN. 2023. A new strain of bacteria isolated from chemically saturated corn rhizosphere under the dominance of the mineral kaolinite. Biodiversitas 24: 1886-1894. The kaolinite mineral that dominates the cornfield reduces soil fertility and the bacterial community. The discovery of adaptive bacterial strains on kaolinite dominant land is a biological strategy to improve soil fertility because it is part of the root ecosystem. This study aims to obtain adaptive and superior bacteria in producing IAA hormones and fixing nitrogen. The soil analysis method uses X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis to characterize clay minerals and soil chemical content. While the bacterial characterization was carried out morphologically and physiologically. After that, followed by the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The type of kaolinite clay mineral dominates the soil samples with a SiO2 content of >40%. A total of 17 bacterial isolates were purified, 12 had round colony shapes, and 5 had irregular shapes dominated by cream color, 11 of which were identified as Gram-positive and 6 Gram-negative bacteria. RJ1T isolates/isolated produced the highest auxin (0.141 mgL-1), while RJ1P isolates/isolated had the highest nitrogen fixation ability (0.975%) and were not pathogenic. The isolates were closely related to the Nocardioides marinisabuli strain RA2816S ribosomal RNA gene (99.57%). Thus, RJ1PI bacterial isolate is an adaptive bacteria that can be formulated as a biological agent to increase maize productivity in the dry land.
Bacterial selection and characterization of chitinase enzyme from bacteria controlling Fusarium proliferatum
Authors: KHAIRAH MIFTAHUL , MUBARIK NISA RACHMANIA , MANAF LISDAR A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract. Khairah M, Mubarik NR, Manaf LA. 2023. Bacterial selection and characterization of chitinase enzyme from bacteria controlling Fusarium proliferatum. Biodiversitas 24: 1926-1933. The phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium proliferatum causes wilt rot disease of onion bulbs and many agricultural losses. The biocontrol of F. proliferatum can be approached with chitinase from microorganisms, such as endophytic bacteria. The chitinase enzyme can inhibit and control fungus growth by degrading chitin, the main component of the fungal cell wall. This study aimed to select, characterize, and semi-purifying the chitinase produced by endophytic bacteria and to evaluate its antifungal activity against F. proliferatum. The results showed ABS 4.1.2 isolate produced chitinase and had antagonistic activity against F. proliferatum. The prospective ABS 4.1.2 isolate was identified based on 16S rRNA gene as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The precipitated chitinase using 60% ammonium sulfate (w/v) showed a specific activity of 19.69 U/mg and increased the purity by 3.60 fold. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that chitinase had an estimated molecular weight of 32 kDa and 65 kDa. The chitinase activity of crude extract and precipitated chitinase were optimum at pH 7 and the temperature of 35°C and 45°C, respectively. The precipitated chitinase showed a higher inhibition compared to 12 hrs of cell culture and crude enzymes against F. proliferatum. The precipitated chitinase and crude enzymes significantly exhibited destructive activity toward F. proliferatum mycelium.
Beyond the obvious: Exploring Os Tibiale Externum and Os Peroneum in Foot and Ankle Pain – A Case Series
Authors: Yamajala Sindhura , Mane Sudhir
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Accessory ossicles are well-corticated bony structures found close to bones or a joint. They may be unilateral or bilateral. The os tibiale externum is also known as accessory navicular bone, os naviculare secundarium, accessory (tarsal) scaphoid, or prehallux. It is found within the tibialis posterior tendon near its insertion on the navicular bone. The os peroneum is a small sesamoid bone located within the peroneus longus tendon, adjacent to the cuboid. We present a case series of five patients with accessory ossicles of the foot to demonstrate pitfalls in the diagnosis of foot and ankle pain. Case Report: The case series includes four patients with os tibiale externum and one patient with os peroneum. Only one patient had symptoms related to os tibiale externum. The accessory ossicle in the rest of the cases was discovered incidentally after trauma to the ankle or foot. The symptomatic os tibiale externum was managed conservatively with analgesics and shoe inserts for medial arch support. Conclusion: Accessory ossicles are considered developmental anomalies and they originate from ossification centers that have failed to fuse with the main bone. Clinical suspicion and awareness about the existence of the commonly occurring accessory ossicles of the foot and ankle are necessary. They can be a confounding factor in the diagnosis of foot and ankle pain. Failure to notice their presence might result in a misdiagnosis and unnecessary immobilization or surgery for the patients. Keywords: Accessory ossicles, os tibiale externum, os peroneum.
Determination of Genetic variation among
Beauveria bassiana and
Metarhizium anisopliae Isolates from Palestine and other Geographic regions using ITS and β-tubulin Sequences, RFLP and ISSR Data
Authors: Al-Qadi Isra' , Farrah Iba' , Iraki Naim
Published: April 2023

In this work we report the genetic variation of ten isolates of entomopathogenic fungi, four of which were isolated from Palestine while the remaining six were from other geographic regions. The variation was determined using molecular-based techniques including; sequence analysis of β-tubulin (BT) gene, the Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) 1 & 2 of the rDNA, Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP), and Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) analysis. The sequencing data of ITS regions confirmed the taxonomic identity of six isolates as
Metarhizium anisopliae while the identity of the other four as
Beauveria bassiana. These data also revealed that the two Palestinian
Beauveria b. isolates are probably new strains since theyshowed 99% homology with the best match sequences reported in the gene bank. The restriction digestion of the ITS2 sequences produced a fingerprint for the PAL-M01 isolate. The ITS and BT sequences were able to distinguish the B-Bot genotype from the other Beauveria b. isolates. In contrast, the ITS could discriminate the three
Metarhizium isolates: Ma-7, PAL-M01, and PPRC. Moreover, the ISSR analysis detected high levels of polymorphism among the
Beauveria b. (80%) and the
Metarhizium a. (90%) isolates. The fact that the PPRC and B-Bot isolates areobviously genetically different from their
Metarhizium a. and
Beauveria b. counterparts could be attributed to their distant geographic origins. The molecular data obtained in this work can be utilized for specific identification of each ofthese isolates which, would facilitate the local use of these fungi as biocontrol agents. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study, in Palestine, attempting to discriminate between EPF isolates using advanced molecular techniques.
Graph-based conflict-free MAC protocol and conflict analysis for a two-layer ultraviolet communication network
Authors: Pan Yuchen , Wang Guanchu , Zhang Yubo , Tang Jingyin , Gong Chen , Xu Zhengyuan
Published: April 2023

To efficiently exploit the space division multiplexing of ultraviolet (UV) communication, we apply link coverage characteristics to construct a conflict graph and design conflict-free protocols for a two-layer UV communication network. The network is divided into two layers: the first-layer network forms a backbone and the second-layer network serves as local access. We construct a routing model and medium-access control (MAC) model. Then we propose Routing-MAC joint scheduling for the first-layer network based on the conflict graph. We investigate the system throughput and delay of joint scheduling under different node intensities. For second-layer networks, we propose a multi-link conflict-free protocol adopting protocol frames of carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA). Numerical results show that the multi-link conflict-free protocol can improve the system throughput by more than 100% compared with CSMA/CA. Moreover, we perform a conflict analysis on the proposed protocols to investigate the influence of conflict intensity. According to the conflict analysis, we optimize the path planning of Routing-MAC joint scheduling to reduce the average delay of the network. Numerical results show that the optimized Routing-MAC joint scheduling leads to larger system throughput and lower delay.
Single-beam technique for ultrashort pulse characterization based on the nonlinear ellipse rotation signal
Authors: Moysés R. M. , Barbano E. C. , Misoguti L.
Published: April 2023

We present a single-beam method based on the third-order nonlinear-ellipse-rotation (NER) measurement in thick samples to determine the pulse properties, including the duration and linear chirp. Our approach exploits the influence of the intrinsic second-order dispersions of the nonlinear materials, which affect the NER signal as a function of propagation. Two advantages can be highlighted: no delay line is required, and there are no phase-matching issues. To test our method, we characterized ultrafast chirped pulses from a Ti:sapphire amplified laser system and tunable pulses from an optical parametric amplifier using two samples with high dispersions and nonlinearities: SF6 and LaSF-N30 optical glasses.
High-precision dynamic three-dimensional shape measurement of specular surfaces based on deep learning
Authors: Wu Zhaoxing , Wang Jie , Jiang Xuan , Fan Luyao , Wei Chen , Yue Huimin , Liu Yong
Published: April 2023

In order to solve the difficulty of traditional phase measuring deflectometry (PMD) in considering precision and speed, an orthogonal encoding PMD method based on deep learning is presented in this paper. We demonstrate for, what we believe to be, the first time that deep learning techniques can be combined with dynamic-PMD and can be used to reconstruct high-precision 3D shapes of specular surfaces from single-frame distorted orthogonal fringe patterns, enabling high-quality dynamic measurement of specular objects. The experimental results prove that the phase and shape information measured by the proposed method has high accuracy, almost reaching the results obtained by the ten-step phase-shifting method. And the proposed method also has excellent performance in dynamic experiments, which is of great significance to the development of optical measurement and fabrication areas.
Complex dielectric function of thiazolothiazole thin films determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Shuchi Nuren , Mower Jackson , Stinson V. Paige , McLamb Micheal J. , Boreman Glenn D. , Walter Michael G. , Hofmann Tino
Published: April 2023

In this paper, the complex dielectric function of 2,5-bis(N,N-dibutyl-4-aminophenyl) thiazolo[5,4-d]thiazole is reported. Thin films of this material were obtained by spin coating on a silicon substrate. The samples were investigated using spectroscopic ellipsometry in the spectral range from 354 nm to 1907 nm at multiple angles of incidence. The ellipsometric data were analyzed using a stratified-layer model composed of a thiazolothiazole thin film, a native SiO2 oxide, and a Si substrate. The model dielectric function of the thiazolothiazole thin film was modeled using a series of Tauc-Lorentz and Gaussian oscillators. The best-model calculated data reproduces the experimental data very well. The bandgap of TTz is reported and found to be in good agreement with density functional theory calculations reported earlier.
Ultra-long-wave infrared broadband absorber based on a nano-resonant ring structure
Authors: Chen Shilin , Li Zhiwei , Wu Lejia , Wang Wenjie , Teng Xudong
Published: April 2023

We designed a four-layer structured absorber (Ti-Si-SiO2-Ti) in the ultra-long-wave infrared band. The paper applies the bare Ti-SiO2-Si film to determine the approximate target band of the absorber, and combined with the coupling effect of the top double-ring structure, it greatly enhances the absorber's property, which can make the absorber absorb more than 90% in the range of 14.0-26.3 µm in the ultra-long-wave infrared band. For the complex natural environment in practical applications, the absorber has excellent polarization independence and maintains excellent absorption in the incident environment from 0-60°.
Overexpression profiling reveals cellular requirements in the context of genetic backgrounds and environments
Authors: Saeki Nozomu , Yamamoto Chie , Eguchi Yuichi , Sekito Takayuki , Shigenobu Shuji , Yoshimura Mami , Yashiroda Yoko , Boone Charles , Moriya Hisao
Published: April 2023

Overexpression can help life adapt to stressful environments, making an examination of overexpressed genes valuable for understanding stress tolerance mechanisms. However, a systematic study of genes whose overexpression is functionally adaptive (GOFAs) under stress has yet to be conducted. We developed a new overexpression profiling method and systematically identified GOFAs inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeunder stress (heat, salt, and oxidative). Our results show that adaptive overexpression compensates for deficiencies and increases fitness under stress, like calcium under salt stress. We also investigated the impact of different genetic backgrounds on GOFAs, which varied among threeS.cerevisiaestrains reflecting differing calcium and potassium requirements for salt stress tolerance. Our study of a knockout collection also suggested that calcium prevents mitochondrial outbursts under salt stress. Mitochondria-enhancing GOFAs were only adaptive when adequate calcium was available and non-adaptive when calcium was deficient, supporting this idea. Our findings indicate that adaptive overexpression meets the cell’s needs for maximizing the organism’s adaptive capacity in the given environment and genetic context.
What does heritability of Alzheimer’s disease represent?
Authors: Baker Emily , Leonenko Ganna , Schmidt Karl Michael , Hill Matthew , Myers Amanda J. , Shoai Maryam , de Rojas Itziar , Tesi Niccoló , Holstege Henne , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L. , Ruiz Agustin , Hardy John , van der Lee Sven , Escott-Price Valentina
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Both late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and ageing have a strong genetic component. In each case, many associated variants have been discovered, but how much missing heritability remains to be discovered is debated. Variability in the estimation of SNP-based heritability could explain the differences in reported heritability.

Methods

We compute heritability in five large independent cohorts (N = 7,396, 1,566, 803, 12,528 and 3,963) to determine whether a consensus for the AD heritability estimate can be reached. These cohorts vary by sample size, age of cases and controls and phenotype definition. We compute heritability a) for all SNPs, b) excluding APOE region, c) excluding both APOE and genome-wide association study hit regions, and d) SNPs overlapping a microglia gene-set.

Results

SNP-based heritability of late onset Alzheimer’s disease is between 38 and 66% when age and genetic disease architecture are correctly accounted for. The heritability estimates decrease by 12% [SD = 8%] on average when the APOE region is excluded and an additional 1% [SD = 3%] when genome-wide significant regions were removed. A microglia gene-set explains 69–84% of our estimates of SNP-based heritability using only 3% of total SNPs in all cohorts.

Conclusion

The heritability of neurodegenerative disorders cannot be represented as a single number, because it is dependent on the ages of cases and controls. Genome-wide association studies pick up a large proportion of total AD heritability when age and genetic architecture are correctly accounted for. Around 13% of SNP-based heritability can be explained by known genetic loci and the remaining heritability likely resides around microglial related genes.
Structural and haemodynamic evaluation of less invasive surfactant administration during nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation in surfactant-deficient newborn piglets
Authors: Mielgo Victoria , Gastiasoro Elena , Salomone Fabrizio , Ricci Francesca , Gomez-Solaetxe Miguel A. , Olazar Lara , Loureiro Begoña , Rey-Santano Carmen
Published: April 2023

The most recent approaches to the initial treatment of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)- involve non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and less-invasive surfactant (SF) administration (LISA). Combining these techniques has been proven a useful treatment option for SF-deficient neonates. The objective of this study was to explore the impact on the brain (using cerebral near infrared spectroscopy, NIRS) of different LISA methods during NIV, using nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) for treating neonatal RDS. For this, we used five groups of spontaneously breathing newborn piglets (n = 6/group) with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)-induced respiratory distress which received NIPPV only (controls), poractant-alfa using the INSURE-like method (bolus delivery) followed by NIPPV, or poractant-alfa using one of three LISA devices, 1) a nasogastric tube (NT), 2) a vascular catheter (VC) or 3) the LISAcath® catheter. We assessed pulmonary, hemodynamic and cerebral effects, and performed histological analysis of lung and brain tissue. Following BALs, the piglets developed severe RDS (pH<7.2, PaCO2>70 mmHg, PaO2<70 mmHg, dynamic compliance<0.5 ml/cmH2O/kg at FiO2 = 1). Poractant-alfa administration using different LISA techniques during NIPPV was well tolerated and efficacious in newborn piglets. In our study, although all groups showed normal physiological ranges of total lung injury score and biochemical lung analysis, VC and LISAcath® catheters were associated with better values of lung compliance and lower values of lung damage than NIPPV, NT or INSURE-like methods. Moreover, neither of the SF administration methods used (LISA or INSURE-like) had a significant impact on the histological neonatal brain injury score. Of note, the LISAcath® has been recently withdrawn from the market.
Characterization of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus isolates containing lnuB gene responsible for the L phenotype
Authors: Azpiroz María F. , Burger Noelia , Mazza Margarita , Rodríguez Grisel , Camou Teresa , García Gabarrot Gabriela
Published: April 2023

Within the framework of the β-hemolytic streptococci surveillance carried out by the National Reference Laboratory from Uruguay, three putative Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (SEZ) were received from different health centers. Being these the first reports associated with human infections in Uruguay, the objective of this work was to confirm their identification, to determine their genetic relationship and to study their antibiotic susceptibility. Using four different methods, they were identified as SEZ, a subspecies which has been described as the etiologic agent of rare and severe zoonosis in a few cases in other countries. The three isolates presented different pulsotypes by PFGE; however, two of them appeared to be related and were confirmed as ST431 by MLST, while the remaining isolate displayed ST72. Their resistance profile exhibited an unexpected feature: despite all of them were susceptible to macrolides, they showed different levels of resistance to clindamycin, i.e. they had the so-called “L phenotype”. This rare trait is known to be due to a nucleotidyl-transferase, encoded by genes of the lnu family. Although this phenotype was previously described in a few SEZ isolates, its genetic basis has not been studied yet. This was now analyzed by PCR in the three isolates and they were found to contain a lnuB gene. The lnuB sequence was identical among the three isolates and with many lnuB sequences deposited in data banks. In conclusion, for the first time in Uruguay, three SEZ isolates recovered from non-epidemiologically related cases of human invasive infection were identified. Moreover, this is the first report about the presence of a lnu gene in the S. equi species, revealing the active lateral spread of the lnuB in a new streptococcal host.
A standardized method for plasma extracellular vesicle isolation and size distribution analysis
Authors: Diehl J. Nathaniel , Ray Amelia , Collins Lauren B. , Peterson Andrew , Alexander Kyle C. , Boutros Jacob G. , Ikonomidis John S. , Akerman Adam W.
Published: April 2023

The following protocol describes our workflow for isolation and quantification of plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs). It requires limited sample volume so that the scientific value of specimens is maximized. These steps include isolation of vesicles by automated size exclusion chromatography and quantification by tunable resistive pulse sensing. This workflow optimizes reproducibility by minimizing variations in processing, handling, and storage of EVs. EVs have significant diagnostic and therapeutic potential, but clinical application is limited by disparate methods of data collection. This standardized protocol is scalable and ensures efficient recovery of physiologically intact EVs that may be used in a variety of downstream biochemical and functional analyses. Simultaneous measurement quantifies EV concentration and size distribution absolutely. Absolute quantification corrects for variations in EV number and size, offering a novel method of standardization in downstream applications.
Rebuilding life after migration: Research protocol of a mixed methods study on settlement experiences of refugee and migrant youth
Authors: Ziaian Tahereh , Puvimanasinghe Teresa , Miller Emily , Augoustinos Martha , Esterman Adrian , Baddeley Michelle , Arthur Nancy , de Anstiss Helena , Tsoulis Eugenia , Stewart-Jones Tamara , Ghassemi Effat , Pir Tara
Published: April 2023

Internationally, there is an urgent need to understand factors promoting successful settlement and integration of people with forced or voluntary migration experiences (i.e., refugee and non-refugee migrants). This paper provides a protocol of a mixed-methods investigation of contextual factors of successful settlement and service utilization of youth and their families, as young people could be at higher risk due to stressors associated with pre-migration trauma, post-migration settlement stressors, and adolescent development. This large-scale mixed-methods study will be conducted across three countries. A questionnaire survey will seek responses from 1200 youth aged 15–24 years residing in South Australia, Ontario, Canada, and California, United States of America. The qualitative component of the study will comprise 54 focus groups (324 participants) with youth and their parents/caregivers. The study design allows a range of important phenomena (e.g., different migration pathways and settlement countries) and key questions (e.g., regarding the intersection of migration, settlement, and wellbeing) to be addressed. It also allows for generalizability of findings to be tested across different communities and countries. Findings will support recommendations for policy and practice and may be generalized to advance research with youth and their families. This study is one of the largest, most comprehensive studies of youth settlement.
TGM2 inhibits the proliferation, migration and tumorigenesis of MDCK cells
Authors: Qiu Zhenyu , Guo Shouqing , Liu Geng , Pei Mengyuan , Liao Yuejiao , Wang Jiamin , Zhang Jiayou , Yang Di , Qiao Zilin , Li Zhuo , Ma Zhongren , Liu Zhenbin , Yang Xiaoming
Published: April 2023

Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells are one of the main cell lines used for influenza vaccine production due to their high virus yield and low mutation resistance. Due to their high tumorigenicity, the safety of vaccines produced from these cells is controversial. TGM2 is a multifunctional protein that plays an important role in the adhesion and migration of cells and is associated with tumor formation. We found that the expression level of TGM2 was significantly up-regulated in low tumorigenic MDCK cells. We first analyzed TGM2-overexpressed and knockout MDCK cells in vitro. Scratch-wound assay and Transwell chamber experiments showed that TGM2 overexpression significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of MDCK cells and significantly reduced their proliferation. TGM2 knockout significantly enhanced cell migration, invasion, and proliferation. The tumorigenesis results in nude mice were consistent with those in vitro. TGM2 knockout significantly enhanced the tumorigenesis rate of MDCK cells in nude mice. We also investigated the effects of TGM2 gene expression on the replication of the H1N1 influenza A virus in MDCK cells. The results showed that TGM2 induced the negative regulation of H1N1 replication. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the tumor regulation mechanism and biological functions of TGM2.
NyelvElő, avagy hogyan vezetjük be az idegen nyelvet gyermekkorban?
Authors: Albert Mónika , Csiszárné Kaszala Krisztina
Published: April 2023

Ebben a tanulmányban azt szeretnénk bemutatni, hogy iskolánkban hogyan vezetjük be az idegen nyelvet gyermekkorban. Először összefoglaljuk a szakirodalmakban leírt gyermekkori idegennyelv oktatás célját, ajánlott témáit, módszereit, majd az iskolánkban az iskolahívogató program keretében megvalósuló NyelvElő foglalkozásainkat mutatjuk be. A harmadik rész a város óvodapedagógusainak rendezett Szakmai Nap keretén belül megvalósuló NyelvElő idegen nyelvi foglalkozás bemutatását, leírását és reflexióját tartalmazza.
Judicial Branch and Political Crisis: Focusing on the Analysis of the Argumentation Structure of the President’s Impeachment Decision
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Cha Dongwook
Published: April 2023

This study discusses on the presidential impeachment perceiving it as a constitutional device to overcome the internal political crisis - the loss of the president's control of state affairs - within the constitutional system. With so much power concentrated on the president, the president's vacancy can lead to a serious power vacuum. Whether this crisis can be resolved and turned into a stable phase is entirely left to the decision maker, the Constitutional Court. It might be wrong to leave the final judgment to the judicial branch even though the presidential impeachment is a political dispute. But the political nature of the presidential impeachment does not automatically make the Constitutional Court's decision political. Rather, the stronger the political character, the more faithful the Constitutional Court will try to be to the literary and logical interpretation based on normative principles. In the two presidential impeachment cases, the Constitutional Court used the principle of prohibition of excessive restriction, particularly balancing test, in the process of argumentation for conclusion.
Clinical, Endoscopic, and Histopathologic Gastrointestinal Disease in an American Cohort with Behçet’s Disease
Authors: Curtin Bryan F. , Hill Kareen L. , Bhattacharya Sumona , Powers Astin , Venkatesan Aradhana , Bagi Preet , Joyal Elizabeth , Alimchandani Meghna , Goldbach-Mansky Raphaela , Grayson Peter , Quezado Martha , Sibley Cailin , Heller Theo
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Behçet’s disease (BD) is a chronic systemic vasculitis characterized by oral and genital ulcers, uveitis, and skin lesions. Patients with BD may develop gastrointestinal disease however characterization of gastrointestinal disease in American cohorts is lacking. Here we present clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic GI findings in an American cohort of BD patients.

Methods:

Patients with established BD were evaluated prospectively at the National Institutes of Health. Demographic and clinical data were collected including Behçet’s disease manifestations and gastrointestinal symptoms. Endoscopy with histopathologic sampling was performed for both clinical and research indications with written consent.

Results:

Eighty-three patients were evaluated. The majority were female (83.1%) and White (75.9%). Mean age was 36 ± 14.8 years. Gastrointestinal symptoms were reported in 75% of cohort with nearly half of reporting abdominal pain (48.2%) and significant numbers reporting acid reflux, diarrhea, and nausea/vomiting. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was performed in 37 patients; erythema and ulcers were the most common found abnormalities. Colonoscopy was performed in 32 patients with abnormalities including polyps, erythema, and ulcers. Endoscopy was normal in 27% of EGDs and 47% of colonoscopies. Vascular congestion was demonstrated on the majority of random biopsies throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Inflammation was not highly prevalent on random biopsies except in the stomach. Wireless capsule endoscopy was performed on 18 patients; ulcers and strictures were the most common abnormalities.

Conclusions:

Gastrointestinal symptoms were common in this cohort of American patients with BD. Endoscopic examination was often normal however histopathologic examination demonstrated vascular congestion throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
Olokizumab, a monoclonal antibody against interleukin-6, in combination with methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis inadequately controlled by tumour necrosis factor inhibitor therapy: efficacy and safety results of a randomised controlled phase III study
Authors: Feist E. , Fatenejad S. , Grishin S. , Korneva E. , Luggen M.E. , Nasonov E. , Samsonov M. , Smolen J.S. , Fleischmann R.M.
Published: April 2023

Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of olokizumab (OKZ), a monoclonal antibody against the interleukin-6 (IL-6) cytokine, versus placebo (PBO) in patients with prior inadequate response to tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi-IRs).

Methods In this 24-week multicentre, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, the patients were randomised in a 2:2:1 ratio to receive subcutaneously administered OKZ 64 mg once every 2 weeks (q2w), OKZ 64 mg once every 4 weeks (q4w) or PBO plus methotrexate. At week 16, the patients on PBO were randomised to receive either OKZ regime. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving an American College of Rheumatology 20% (ACR20) response at week 12. Disease Activity Score 28-joint count C-reactive protein (DAS28 (CRP)) <3.2 at week 12 was the major secondary efficacy endpoint. Safety and immunogenicity were assessed.

Results In 368 patients randomised, ACR20 response rates were 60.9% in OKZ q2w, 59.6% in OKZ q4w and 40.6% in PBO (p<0.01 for both comparisons). Achievement of DAS28 (CRP) <3.2 was significantly different, favouring the OKZ arms. Improvements in efficacy and patientreported outcomes were maintained throughout 24 weeks and were noted after week 16 in patients who switched from PBO.Dose-related treatment-emergent serious adverse events were 7% in OKZ q2w, 3.2% in OKZ q4w and none in the PBO group.

Conclusions Direct inhibition of IL-6 with OKZ resulted in significant improvements in the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis compared with PBO in TNFi-IR patients with a similar safety profile as observed for monoclonal antibodies to the IL-6 receptor.
Treatment of rheumatic diseases. Different nosologies, common problems
Authors: Olyunin Yu. A.
Published: April 2023

A characteristic feature of rheumatic diseases (RD) is a chronic inflammatory process, which contribute to their pathogenesis, and determines the formation of a persistent pain syndrome. Therefore, in current recommendations for the treatment of RD, the main attention is paid to the correction of disorders that induce pain caused by inflammation. Meanwhile, more and more data are accumulating on the participation of noninflammatory mechanisms in the development of pain in RD. In some cases, the clinical picture of RD is determined by the simultaneous participation of several mechanisms. At the same time, the symptoms associated with the inflammatory process can eventually transform into a different pain phenotype, which persists even after the suppression of inflammatory changes. In such a situation, a correct assessment of the patient's status can cause serious difficulties. The results of the studies show that in everyday clinical practice, when assessing the status of a patient, in addition to the disorders characteristic of each disease, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of the presence of symptoms due to the mechanisms of central sensitization common to various joint diseases.
Thrombosis risk factors in ANCA-associated vasculitis
Authors: Kharlamova E. N. , Reshetnyak T. M. , Tarasova G. M.
Published: April 2023

The article presents a review of current data on arteriovenous thrombosis risk factors in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). Thrombotic complications are among the most frequent prognostically unfavorable factors in AAV. In general, patients with AAV are at greater risk of mortality from cardiovascular events compared with the general population and patients with other forms of systemic vasculitis. Understanding the mechanisms of thrombosis, as well as pathogenic factors that cause an increased risk of arterial and venous thrombosis in AAV, can improve the quality of management of these patients. Therefore, the question of the need for primary and secondary prevention of thrombosis in AAV is of great practical importance. The presented data show the need to estimate the probability of thrombosis in patients with AAV, taking into account risk factors, as well as the influence of the disease itself and ongoing therapy. Assessment of the risk of thrombosis (both venous and arterial) is necessary for the timely administration of adequate preventive treatment of thrombotic complications in AAV.
Clinical variants of skin and mucous membrane lesions in systemic lupus erythematosus with juvenile onset
Authors: Kaleda M. I. , Salugina S. O. , Nikishina I. P. , Arefieva A. N.
Published: April 2023

Skin and mucous membrane lesions are frequently seen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with the juvenile onset (juSLE), and they are extremely diverse. Skin manifestations can be the initial sign of the disease, they often respond first to adequate therapy, and recurrence or the appearance of a new type of lesions is the earliest indicator of exacerbation in many patients. In severe cases, skin lesions can lead to irreversible cosmetic defects, significantly affecting the quality of life. The article presents the clinical manifestations of various variants of skin and mucous membrane lesions in SLE with a debut in childhood and adolescence, their recognition is important for the timely diagnosis of SLE, as well as the correction of therapy for an existing disease, which improves the long-term prognosis and quality of life of patients.
Amr Ma'ruf wa Nahi Munkar: Gerakan Kadizadeli dan Kritik Sufisme di Kerajaan Ottoman Abad ke-17
Authors: Rizal Mahendra Fahmi
Published: April 2023

This research will explore the Kadizadeli movement in the Ottoman empire in the 17th century. The Kadizadeli movement is a movement led by clerics who were previously Friday preachers at mosques in Istanbul. This movement wanted to purify Islam from the heretical behavior and activities of the Sufis who according to them had demoralized Ottoman society in the 17th century. In Islamic history, for example, there are several figures who also criticized Sufism, Ibn Tayimiyah or Ibn Jauzi. The complex problems of the 17th century have inspired some scholars, especially Kadizadeli, to fix them. Using the jargon, Amr ma'ruf wa nahi munkar, they began to criticize and attack the practices of Sufism in the Ottoman empire. By using historical research and literature this research produced several findings. Historically, this movement was led by three people, namely: Kadizade Mehmed, Ustuvani Mehmed and Vani Mehmed. Initially this movement only conveyed their criticism of Sufism activities through sermons and writings. However, when Ustuvani and Vani led this movement and gained a special relationship with the ottoman rulers, this movement led to radical actions. Apart from criticizing and criticizing, they also attack the infrastructure of Sufism and direct physical attacks on them.
 Keywords :  bidah, kadizadeli, ottoman empire, sufism, ulema
Seed pre-sowing treatments and essential trace elements application effects on wheat performance
Authors: JANMOHAMMADI Mohsen , MOHAMADZADEH-ALGHOO Maryam , SABAGHNIA Naser , ION Viorel , NAEEM Shahbaz
Published: April 2023

Current study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different seed priming and foliar spray of micronutrients on bread wheat performance in semi-arid region in Northwest of Iran. Pre-sowing treatments were S1: no pre-sowing treatment (intact seeds), S2: hydro-priming, S3: bio-priming (seed inoculation with plant promoting rhizobacteria consortium: Azotobacter chroococcum + Azospirillum lipoferum), S4: micronutrient seed priming and foliar feeding include, check (0): distilled water spray, Fe: foliar spray of iron, Zn: foliar spray of zinc.  All seed priming treatments significantly increased plant height, tiller number, canopy width, total biomass, spike mass, seed number per spike and seed yield compared to intact seeds. A brief comparison of the effect of seed priming and fertilizer treatments showed that the effects of priming treatments on improving growth and seed yield was more obvious than fertilizer treatments. The greatest increase in seed yield and yield components was recorded for plants grown from bio-fortified seeds by essential trace elements. However, comparison of fertilizer treatments showed that growth parameters were significantly affected by Zn application. From the present study, it may be concluded that combined seed priming through pre-sowing hydration, soaking in micronutrients and microbial inoculation is useful to enhance wheat production and agricultural sustainability for smallholder farmers in semi-arid region.
Parental Smoking Practices and Children's Health Risk from Exposure to Smoking
Authors: Elsaieh Fatma Masoud , Shohaimi Shamarina , Nadzir Noor Hisham , Puad Hazwan
Published: April 2023

Parental smoking's impact on children's health risks is concerning, particularly as people spend more time at home due to recent global pandemics. This study examines how parental smoking practices affect children's health risks, including exposure to second-hand smoke, respiratory infections, and asthma. A cross-sectional design was employed, collecting data from 207 employees of four higher education institutions in Klang Valley through a structured questionnaire in June and July 2022. Multiple regression was conducted to identify predictors of children's health risks, considering factors such as parental awareness, attitude, and nicotine dependence. According to the study findings, increased parental nicotine dependence, better knowledge about the harmful effects of smoking, and more negative attitudes towards smoking all contribute to a decreased health risk for children exposed to second-hand smoke. However, parental smoking behavior had no significant effect. The public should be made more aware of the elevated health risks that indoor smoking poses for children.
The number of locally invariant orderings of a group
Authors: Ba Idrissa , Clay Adam , Thompson Ian
Published: April 2023

We show that if a nontrivial group admits a locally invariant ordering, then it admits uncountably many locally invariant orderings.
For the case of a left-orderable group, we provide an explicit construction of uncountable families of locally invariant orderings; for a general group, we provide an existence theorem that applies compactness to yield uncountably many locally invariant orderings.
Along the way, we define and investigate the space of locally invariant orderings of a group, the natural group actions on this space, and their relationship to the space of left-orderings.