bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine scale prediction of ecological community composition using a two-step sequential Machine Learning ensemble
Authors: Civantos-Gómez Icíar , García-Algarra Javier , García-Callejas David , Galeano Javier , Godoy Oscar , Bartomeus Ignasi
Published: December 2021

Prediction is one of the last frontiers in ecology. Indeed, predicting fine-scale species composition in natural systems is a complex challenge as multiple abiotic and biotic processes operate simultaneously to determine local species abundances. On the one hand, species intrinsic performance and their tolerance limits to different abiotic pressures modulate species abundances. On the other hand, there is growing recognition that species interactions play an equally important role in limiting or promoting such abundances within ecological communities. Here, we present a joint effort between ecologists and data scientists to use data-driven models to predict species abundances using reasonably easy to obtain data. We propose a sequential data-driven modeling approach that in a first step predicts the potential species abundances based on abiotic variables, and in a second step uses these predictions to model the realized abundances once accounting for species competition. Using a curated data set over five years we predict fine-scale species abundances in a highly diverse annual plant community. Our models show a remarkable spatial predictive accuracy using only easy-to-measure variables in the field, yet such predictive power is lost when temporal dynamics are taken into account. This result suggests that predicting future abundances requires longer time series analysis to capture enough variability. In addition, we show that these data-driven models can also suggest how to improve mechanistic models by adding missing variables that affect species performance such as particular soil conditions (e.g. carbonate availability in our case). Robust models for predicting fine-scale species composition informed by the mechanistic understanding of the underlying abiotic and biotic processes can be a pivotal tool for conservation, especially given the human-induced rapid environmental changes we are experiencing. This objective can be achieved by promoting the knowledge gained with classic modelling approaches in ecology and recently developed data-driven models.
Simulations of dynamically cross-linked actin networks: Morphology, rheology, and hydrodynamic interactions
Authors: Maxian Ondrej , Peláez Raúl P. , Mogilner Alex , Donev Aleksandar
Published: December 2021

Cross-linked actin networks are the primary component of the cell cytoskeleton and have been the subject of numerous experimental and modeling studies. While these studies have demonstrated that the networks are viscoelastic materials, evolving from elastic solids on short timescales to viscous fluids on long ones, questions remain about the duration of each asymptotic regime, the role of the surrounding fluid, and the behavior of the networks on intermediate timescales. Here we perform detailed simulations of passively cross-linked non-Brownian actin networks to quantify the principal timescales involved in the elastoviscous behavior, study the role of nonlocal hydrodynamic interactions, and parameterize continuum models from discrete stochastic simulations. To do this, we extend our recent computational framework for semiflexible filament suspensions, which is based on nonlocal slender body theory, to actin networks with dynamic cross linkers and finite filament lifetime. We introduce a model where the cross linkers are elastic springs with sticky ends stochastically binding to and unbinding from the elastic filaments, which randomly turn over at a characteristic rate. We show that, depending on the parameters, the network evolves to a steady state morphology that is either an isotropic actin mesh or a mesh with embedded actin bundles. For different degrees of bundling, we numerically apply small-amplitude oscillatory shear deformation to extract three timescales from networks of hundreds of filaments and cross linkers. We analyze the dependence of these timescales, which range from the order of hundredths of a second to the actin turnover time of several seconds, on the dynamic nature of the links, solvent viscosity, and filament bending stiffness. We show that the network is mostly elastic on the short time scale, with the elasticity coming mainly from the cross links, and viscous on the long time scale, with the effective viscosity originating primarily from stretching and breaking of the cross links. We show that the influence of nonlocal hydrodynamic interactions depends on the network morphology: for homogeneous meshworks, nonlocal hydrodynamics gives only a small correction to the viscous behavior, but for bundled networks it both hinders the formation of bundles and significantly lowers the resistance to shear once bundles are formed. We use our results to construct three-timescale generalized Maxwell models of the networks.
The impact of whole genome duplications on the human gene regulatory networks
Authors: Mottes Francesco , Villa Chiara , Osella Matteo , Caselle Michele
Published: December 2021

This work studies the effects of the two rounds of Whole Genome Duplication (WGD) at the origin of the vertebrate lineage on the architecture of the human gene regulatory networks. We integrate information on transcriptional regulation, miRNA regulation, and protein-protein interactions to comparatively analyse the role of WGD and Small Scale Duplications (SSD) in the structural properties of the resulting multilayer network. We show that complex network motifs, such as combinations of feed-forward loops and bifan arrays, deriving from WGD events are specifically enriched in the network. Pairs of WGD-derived proteins display a strong tendency to interact both with each other and with common partners and WGD-derived transcription factors play a prominent role in the retention of a strong regulatory redundancy. Combinatorial regulation and synergy between different regulatory layers are in general enhanced by duplication events, but the two types of duplications contribute in different ways. Overall, our findings suggest that the two WGD events played a substantial role in increasing the multi-layer complexity of the vertebrate regulatory network by enhancing its combinatorial organization, with potential consequences on its overall robustness and ability to perform high-level functions like signal integration and noise control. Lastly, we discuss in detail the RAR/RXR pathway as an illustrative example of the evolutionary impact of WGD duplications in human.
In silico identification of potential calcium dynamics and sarcomere targets for recovering left ventricular function in rat heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Longobardi Stefano , Sher Anna , Niederer Steven A.
Published: December 2021

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a complex disease associated with multiple co-morbidities, where impaired cardiac mechanics are often the end effect. At the cellular level, cardiac mechanics can be pharmacologically manipulated by altering calcium signalling and the sarcomere. However, the link between cellular level modulations and whole organ pump function is incompletely understood. Our goal is to develop and use a multi-scale computational cardiac mechanics model of the obese ZSF1 HFpEF rat to identify important biomechanical mechanisms that underpin impaired cardiac function and to predict how whole-heart mechanical function can be recovered through altering cellular calcium dynamics and/or cellular contraction. The rat heart was modelled using a 3D biventricular biomechanics model. Biomechanics were described by 16 parameters, corresponding to intracellular calcium transient, sarcomere dynamics, cardiac tissue and hemodynamics properties. The model simulated left ventricular (LV) pressure-volume loops that were described by 14 scalar features. We trained a Gaussian process emulator to map the 16 input parameters to each of the 14 outputs. A global sensitivity analysis was performed, and identified calcium dynamics and thin and thick filament kinetics as key determinants of the organ scale pump function. We employed Bayesian history matching to build a model of the ZSF1 rat heart. Next, we recovered the LV function, described by ejection fraction, peak pressure, maximum rate of pressure rise and isovolumetric relaxation time constant. We found that by manipulating calcium, thin and thick filament properties we can recover 34%, 28% and 24% of the LV function in the ZSF1 rat heart, respectively, and 39% if we manipulate all of them together. We demonstrated how a combination of biophysically based models and their derived emulators can be used to identify potential pharmacological targets. We predicted that cardiac function can be best recovered in ZSF1 rats by desensitising the myofilament and reducing the affinity to intracellular calcium concentration and overall prolonging the sarcomere staying in the active force generating state.
Extracting multi-way chromatin contacts from Hi-C data
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhang Bokai , Hyeon Changbong
Published: December 2021

There is a growing realization that multi-way chromatin contacts formed in chromosome structures are fundamental units of gene regulation. However, due to the paucity and complexity of such contacts, it is challenging to detect and identify them using experiments. Based on an assumption that chromosome structures can be mapped onto a network of Gaussian polymer, here we derive analytic expressions for n-body contact probabilities (n > 2) among chromatin loci based on pairwise genomic contact frequencies available in Hi-C, and show that multi-way contact probability maps can in principle be extracted from Hi-C. The three-body (triplet) contact probabilities, calculated from our theory, are in good correlation with those from measurements including Tri-C, MC-4C and SPRITE. Maps of multi-way chromatin contacts calculated from our analytic expressions can not only complement experimental measurements, but also can offer better understanding of the related issues, such as cell-line dependent assemblies of multiple genes and enhancers to chromatin hubs, competition between long-range and short-range multi-way contacts, and condensates of multiple CTCF anchors.
Cell competition is driven by Xrp1-mediated phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α
Authors: Ochi Naotaka , Nakamura Mai , Nagata Rina , Wakasa Naoki , Nakano Ryosuke , Igaki Tatsushi
Published: December 2021

Cell competition is a context-dependent cell elimination via cell-cell interaction whereby unfit cells (‘losers’) are eliminated from the tissue when confronted with fitter cells (‘winners’). Despite extensive studies, the mechanism that drives loser’s death and its physiological triggers remained elusive. Here, through a genetic screen inDrosophila, we find that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress causes cell competition. Mechanistically, ER stress upregulates the bZIP transcription factor Xrp1, which promotes phosphorylation of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF2α via the kinase PERK, leading to cell elimination. Surprisingly, our genetic data show that different cell competition triggers such as ribosomal protein mutations or RNA helicaseHel25Emutations converge on upregulation of Xrp1, which leads to phosphorylation of eIF2α and thus causes reduction in global protein synthesis and apoptosis when confronted with wild-type cells. These findings not only uncover a core pathway of cell competition but also open the way to understanding the physiological triggers of cell competition.
Dissection of the NKG2C NK cell response against Puumala Orthohantavirus
Authors: Vietzen Hannes , Hartenberger Svenja , Aberle Stephan W. , Puchhammer-Stöckl Elisabeth
Published: December 2021

Background

Infections with the Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) in humans may cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), known as nephropathia epidemica (NE), which is associated with acute renal failure in severe cases. In response to PUUV-infections, a subset of potent antiviral NKG2C+ NK cells expand, whose role in virus defence and pathogenesis of NE is unclear. NKG2C+ NK cell proliferation is mediated by binding of NKG2C/CD94 to HLA-E on infected cells. The proliferation and activation of NKG2C+ NK cells via the NKG2C/HLA-E axis is affected by different NKG2C (NKG2Cwt/del) and HLA-E (HLA-E*0101/0103) alleles, which naturally occur in the human host. Homozygous (NKG2Cdel/del) and heterozygous (NKG2Cwt/del) deletions of the NKG2C receptor results in an impaired NKG2C/CD94 mediated proliferation and activation of NKG2C+ cells. We therefore analyzed the PUUV-mediated NKG2C+ NK cell responses and the impact of different NKG2C and HLA-E alleles in NE patients.

Methodology/Principal findings

NKG2C+ NK cell expansion and effector functions in PUUV-infected cells were investigated using flow cytometry and it was shown that PUUV-infected endothelial cells led to a NKG2C/CD94 mediated NKG2C+ NK cell activation and expansion, dependent on the HLA-G-mediated upregulation of HLA-E. Furthermore, the NKG2Cdel and HLA-E*0101/0103 alleles were determined in 130 NE patients and 130 matched controls, and it was shown that in NE patients the NKG2Cwt/del allele was significantly overrepresented, compared to the NKG2Cwt/wt variant (p = 0.01). In addition, in vitro analysis revealed that NKG2Cwt/del NK cells exhibited on overall a lower proliferation (p = 0.002) and lower IFNγ expression (p = 0.004) than NKG2Cwt/wt NK cells.

Conclusions/Significance

Our results corroborate the substantial impact of the NKG2C/HLA-E axis on PUUV-specific NK cell responses. A weak NKG2C+ NK cell response, as reflected by NKG2Cwt/del variant, may be associated with a higher risk for a severe hantavirus infections.
Phenotypic effects from the expression of a deregulated AtGAD1 transgene and GABA pathway suppression mutants in maize
Authors: S Rajani M. , Bedair Mohamed F. , Li Hong , Duff Stephen M. G.
Published: December 2021

Glutamate decarboxylase (GAD; EC 4.1.1.15) catalyzes the irreversible decarboxylation of glutamate to produce γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA); a ubiquitous non-protein amino acid involved in the regulation of several aspects of plant metabolism and physiology. To study the function of GAD and GABA in maize, we have; 1) introduced native and deregulated forms of AtGAD1 into maize with the intent of increasing the synthesis of GABA and 2) introduced constructs into maize designed to suppress the activity of several GABA shunt, GABA transport and GABA pathway genes. Maize plants expressing the deregulated AtGAD1 exhibit a severe chlorosis and retarded growth phenotype and have high levels of GABA, and Ca++/CaM-independent GAD activity. Plants expressing the suppression constructs for GABA biosynthetic and transport pathway genes had no observable phenotype whereas a knockout of GABA catabolic pathway genes led to growth and developmental defects under standard growth conditions. The implications of this study to our understanding of the action and function of GABA and GAD in crops are discussed.
New correlations between ocular parameters and disease severity in Spanish patients with Gaucher’s disease Type I
Authors: Esteban Olivia , Torralba Miguel Angel , Olivera Susana , Martinez Mireya , Montes Paula , Marco Sara , Ascaso Javier
Published: December 2021

Background

Gaucher’s disease is associated with a high variety of structural and functional abnormalities in the eye, which do not always affect visual acuity. The purpose of this study was to analyse ocular features in Spanish patients with Gaucher’s disease type I, and to investigate their possible correlation with phenotypic and burden parameters of this entity.

Methods

This cross-sectional observational study compared parameters belonging to 18 eyes from 9 Spanish patients with Gaucher’s disease Type I with 80 eyes from 40 healthy controls. Complete ophthalmological examination included choroidal and retinal thickness maps with swept source optical coherence tomography. Systemic analysis included genotype, plasmatic biomarkers, [ferritin, chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18) and chitotriosidase (ChT)] and severity scoring systems results [“Gaucher Disease Severity Score Index Type I" (GauSSI-I) and “Gaucher disease severity scoring system” (GD-DS3)].

Results

Nine subjects (18 eyes) were cases (female: 55.5%, mean age 45 years; male: 44.5%, mean age 36 years) and 40 subjects (80 eyes) were controls (female: 49%, mean age 50 years; male: 51%, mean age 55 years). There were no statistically significant differences when comparing ocular parameters (visual acuity; axial length, refractive errors, corneal parameters, lens, retinal and choroidal thickness) between case and control subjects (p>0.05). A statistically significant moderate correlation was observed between lower retinal thickness and choroidal quadrants thickness and greater disease severity scores. A lower central retinal thickness also correlates with higher biological plasmatic levels, and has a statistically significant association with the most affected patient with genotype N370S/Del 55pb. Conversely, higher pachymetry involves a more severe plasmatic concentration of biomarkers.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that pachymetry, and retinal and choroidal thickness, are associated with burden biomarkers and disease severity index scores in Spanish patients with Gaucher’s disease Type I.
Residue: The privilege of spatiality in the puzzle film
Authors: Vickers Zachary
Published: December 2021

Typical discourses around the puzzle film – a genre that typically eschews classic storytelling for more complex narrative techniques, such as entangled secondary/tertiary plotlines, and characters with mental or psychological instability – often privilege the manipulation of the film’s temporality and narratology. However, in this article, I perform a close textual analysis of themise en scèneofInceptionby Christopher andEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind(2004) by Michel Gondry to demonstrate how these puzzle films privilege spatiality over time and plot to depict cognitive processes associated with mental and psychological instability, thereby bringing attention to an underrepresented attribute of the genre. I focus on the influence of surrealism onmise en scène, as surrealist art and cinema manipulate space to explore the psyche. I also draw on these films’ production history to show how the filmmakers, production crew and actors understood approaches to space as a cognitive process.
Recent Advantages and Applications of Various Biosynthesized Greener Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Chinnaiah K. , Thivashanthi T. , Asadi Asadollah , Muthuvel A. , Kannan Karthik , Gohulkumar M. , Maik Vivek , Gurushankar K.
Published: December 2021

Green synthesis is an effective method for the synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. The
strong affinity nature of phytochemicals has been effectively utilized as a source of non-toxic
nanoparticle production. The optimized pH, concentration, temperature, reaction time needed for
non-aggregated and stable biosynthesis silver nanoparticles. The surface modifications of silver
nanoparticles over the functionalization of natural compounds are generated unbelievable new thoughts
on its properties. Biomolecules in plant extract redirect different safe and size on designed material,
which cater as key instruments for harvesting the UV-region. The bio-interaction of structural integrity
silver nanomaterial’s are promoted the reactive oxygen species in the wound, redox peak potential on
cyclic voltammetry, spectral alteration at surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect and redox reaction
on the degradation of organic dyes. In this review, the utilization of different biological compounds
and their role of mechanism in the evergreen latest application of colorimetric sensing, electrochemical
analysis, wound healing and catalyst areas is discussed.
Teachability of Figurative Language: Teachers’ Perceptions of the Role of Metaphor in English Language Teaching in Chile
Authors: Veliz Leonardo , Smith Scott
Published: December 2021

This paper reports on a qualitative study that examined the perceptions of English teachers towards the ‘teachability’ of metaphorical language in Chilean EFL classrooms. The study aimed at gaining a better understanding of teachers’ perceptions of the role of metaphor in the English language classroom. A group of six in-service English teachers participated in this qualitative study. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, which addressed three broad dimensions: (i) the views and definitions of metaphor; (ii) the teachability of metaphorically used language; and (iii) preparedness to teach metaphor. The data were thoroughly coded and analyzed thematically. The results revealed that, despite an apparently heightened awareness of the presence and role of metaphor in culture, this did not permeate the participants’ teaching practices, thus calling for more explicit preparation in teacher education programs and radical changes to the ‘educational culture’ that is still imbued with dominant neoliberal ways of doing and thinking.
Факторы и механизмы складывания мест резидентной концентрации мигрантов вокруг рынков
Authors: Варшавер Евгений Александрович , Рочева Анна Леонидовна , Иванова Наталия Сергеевна
Published: December 2021

В статье приводятся результаты исследования факта складывания мест резидентной концентрации мигрантов в российских городах-миллионниках, а также механизмов, объясняющих процесс такого складывания. Исследование осуществлялось с использованием смешанных методов сбора данных в 15 городах. Было проведено 877 экспресс- и 108 экспертных интервью. Согласно результатам исследования, места резидентной концентрации мигрантов в некоторых из городов действительно складываются. Это происходит в жилой застройке, примыкающей к крупным оптовым вещевым или плодоовощным рынкам, которые зачастую появлялись на городской периферии в начале 1990-х годов. Значительную часть работников на них составляли мигранты — сначала из Закавказья, а затем все больше из Средней Азии, которые стали снимать и покупать квартиры в прилегающих к рынкам домах. Такие районы постепенно приобретали имидж мигрантских, и многие из местных жителей, которые при прочих равных поселились бы там, теперь выбирали другие места в городе.
Факторы, способствующие складыванию места резидентной концентрации мигрантов, следующие: наличие в городе большого числа мигрантов, а также крупного рынка, находящегося на одном и том же месте продолжительное время; наличие относительно небольшого количества жилых домов, расположенных в непосредственной пешей доступности от рынка и пространственно отделенных от прочей жилой застройки; невысокие цены на покупку и аренду недвижимости, а также высокая доля общежитий и новостроек экономкласса в данном месте. В статье каждый фактор анализируется в отдельности, и на этой основе создается идеально-типическое описание истории складывания места резидентной концентрации мигрантов, иллюстрируемое кейсом микрорайона Темерник в Ростове-на-Дону. В заключении статьи указываются ограничения исследовательского дизайна, а также предлагаются вопросы для дальнейшего изучения.
Благодарность.Статья подготовлена при поддержке гранта Российского научного фонда (проект РНФ № 18-78-10086) «Анализ механизмов формирования этномиграционных анклавов в российских городах». Мы благодарим за участие в сборе данных: Б. Абророву, А. Авдашкина, В. Азарову, А. Андрееву, А. Ахмедову, Я. Богуславскую, М. Братолюбову, Е. Власову, М. Ермакову, М. Кандински, Е. Карчагина, Р. Кашапова, Н. Кононца, И. Терехову, И. Токмань, Д. Холявченко, Ю. Чеботарева, К. Шепетину, И. Федорова.
Значение аффективного труда в культуре интернет-селебрити
Authors: Колпинец Екатерина Владимировна
Published: December 2021

Публикации о депрессии, психологических проблемах, болезнях и травматичном опыте стали органичной частью социальных сетей наравне с идеальными фотографиями и историями успеха. Жизненные трудности и негативный личный опыт превратились в повседневный контент и способ установить доверительные долгосрочные отношения с аудиторией. В плане демонстрации чувств поле социальных сетей, в первую очередь Instagram и YouTube, устроено куда более сложно и разнопланово, а аффективный труд играет в блогинге куда более значительную роль, чем бесперебойная демонстрация успеха и позитива. Долгое время считалось, что в социальных сетях принято демонстрировать «лучшую версию себя», транслировать позитив, работать в модных отраслях и подражать тропам традиционной культуры знаменитостей. Мы задались целью изучить, как интернет-селебрити используют аффективный труд для выстраивания отношений с аудиторией.
Исследование фокусируется на популярных блогерах и реакции их подписчиков на демонстрацию аффекта. В первой части статьи представлен обзор существующих исследований концепции аффективного труда, затем на материале восьми блогов рассматриваются индивидуальные стратегии аффективного труда. Проанализированы фото- и видеоматериалы, а также подписи к фотографиям и комментарии. Временные рамки исследования ограничены периодом с 2017 по 2020 г. Используя методы эмпирического исследования и практического визуального анализа фото- и видеоматериалов российских и зарубежных Instagram и YouTube-аккаунтов, автор отвечает на вопросы: почему эмоциональный и аффективный труд играет центральную роль в культуре интернет-селебрити? как связаны эмоциональный труд и аутентичность? каким образом постоянная демонстрация эмоций помогает завоевать аудиторию и создать лояльное сообщество подписчиков вокруг блога?
Рыночный опыт создания платформы для анализа аккаунтов блогеров и их аудитории
Authors: Лесневский Димитрий Александрович , Рекун Игорь Геннадьевич
Published: December 2021

Цель работы — структурировать опыт разработки инструмента для анализа блогеров и их аудиторий в социальных сетях. В статье представлены основные этапы создания этого инструмента: от интервью с потенциальными клиентами для планирования функционала к концептуальной модели, методам обработки данных и перспективам. Серия интервью (N = 20) показала, что подходы к анализу аудитории блогеров на рекламном рынке варьируются по глубине проработки в зависимости от задач. Аккаунты блогеров оценивали как по количественным показателям (объем аудитории), так и по качественным — с точки зрения соответствия имиджу брендов. Интерес для развития бизнеса представили именно аудиторные показатели. Модель для описания пользователей социальной сети (а следовательно — для аудиторий) сложилась из трех составляющих: контента самого аккаунта, контента его аудитории и контента других аккаунтов, с которыми он взаимодействует. Обработка массива данных потребовала технических решений на основе машинного обучения для анализа текстов и изображений. В результате мы получили как наборы классических индикаторов — пол, возраст, географическое расположение, так и векторное представление поведенческих характеристик аудитории. Вероятно, дальнейшее развитие технологий приведет к уменьшению возможностей по независимому анализу социальных медиа. Социальные сети ограничивают доступ к API, повышая стоимость разработки решений, а законодательство в области персональных данных увеличивает риски для компаний, создающих новые продукты в этой области.
Antibacterial Activity of Microalgae Dunaliella salina, Tetraselmis chuii and Isochrysis galbana Against Aquatic Pathogens
Authors: Widowati Ita , Zainuri Muhammad , Kusumaningrum Hermin Pancasakti , Hardivillier Yann
Published: December 2021

Recently, expanded consideration has been paid to the business and potentiality of microalgae. Some microalgae are at present being studied for their capacity to find important metabolites for the drug industry or aquacultural applications. Concerning these biotechnological challenges, there is a consistent exertion accommodated in both finding and taking advantage of new microalgal assets and fostering their putative business results or modern valorizations. The crude methanol extracts of three microalgae, Dunaliella salina, Tetraselmis chuii, and Isochrysis galbana, have been investigated for antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion method against aquatic pathogens of fish, shrimp, and shellfish e.g. Pseudomonas fluorescence and Vibrio harveyi. This research aimed to analyze the antibacterial activity of crude extract of these microalgae against aquatic pathogens. The disk diffusion method was used to investigate the antibacterial activity. The result showed that only T. chuii has the inhibition zone for both tested bacteria P. fluorescence and V. harveyi with the inhibition zone of 3.0 ± 0.6 mm on 100 µg. g–1 of extract concentration and 4.20 ± 1.1 mm against P. fluorescence on 10000 µg. g–1 of extract concentration. While D. salina and I. galbana have inhibition zone only for V. harveyi with the inhibition zone of 4.4 ± 0.6 mm and 3.2 ± 0.7 mm on 10000 µg. g–1 of extract concentration. These three microalgae may have potential use in aquatic pathogens as antimicrobial agents. It would be possible to develop biologically active compounds of microalgae as a functional feed for aquaculture.
Gamification during Covid-19: Promoting active learning and motivation in higher education
Authors: Rincon-Flores Elvira G. , Santos-Guevara Brenda N.
Published: December 2021

Virtual teaching modalities urgently implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic require strategies to motivate students to participate actively in higher education. Our study found that gamification using a reward-based system is a strategy that can improve the educational experience under exceptional circumstances. This article reports the results of two gamified undergraduate courses (Calculus and Development of Transversal Competencies) designed with a reward system. The results derived from analyses of online surveys, the final grades, and their correlations revealed that gamification helped motivate students to participate actively and improved their academic performance, in a setting where the mode of instruction was remote, synchronous, and online. From the results we conclude that gamification favours the relationship between attention, participation, and performance, while promoting the humanisation of virtual environments created during academic confinement.
Implications for practice or policy:

Gamification using a reward-based system promoted active class participation and improved student performance after the transition from face-to-face to virtual instruction required as a result of the global pandemic.
Systemic recognition in a reward-based system improved the participants' emotional states, reducing their anxiety and the feeling of isolation caused by the pandemic, and leading to student engagement with .
Gamification works as an accompaniment for students to help the increasement of teacher-student and student-student interactions.
Benchmarking educational quality – an independent analysis and alternative approach
Authors: MAJ Stanislaw Paul
Published: December 2021

In a ten-year study over thirty STEM units in seven nationally accredited institutions (two colleges, five universities, including a five-star teaching university) in two different countries were analyzed to evaluate their educational quality using a range of criteria and benchmarked against the finalists of the 2010 IEEE global award for academics. Unit content and teaching were found to be almost exclusively based on Constructivist based principles. However, Constructivism provides subjective guidelines open to different interpretations. The analyzed units demonstrated considerable variation in pass rates and educational standards. One unit consistently achieved circa 100% pass rates but at the expense of the standard of learning outcomes – far below any reasonable expectations. At the other extreme one unit achieved a higher standard of learning but with pass rates below 30%. This problem can potentially be addressed by using the new quantitative Cognitive Load Optimization learning theory and technology.
Extensions of Psychoanalytic Technique: The Mutual Influences of Standard Psychoanalysis and Transference-Focused Psychotherapy
Authors: Kernberg Otto F.
Published: December 2021

The author describes the differences between standard psychoanalysis and transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) and reviews particular difficulties that psychodynamically trained clinicians have in learning TFP. In delineating differences between standard psychoanalysis and TFP, the author discusses mutual influences between standard psychoanalytic techniques and techniques of TFP. TFP is an extension and modification of standard psychoanalysis, but with quantitative modifications geared to the treatment of the most severe segment of personality disorders that tend not to be treatable by standard analysis. TFP includes some features that are directly facilitated by psychoanalytic education, such as the importance of free association and the organization of interpretations in terms of the analysis of defense, motivation, and impulse. On the other hand, TFP provides new strategies, enhancing standard psychoanalytic treatment, when it modifies technical neutrality under certain circumstances, allows for the analysis of “incompatible realities,” and accelerates interventions under conditions of severe acting out when technical neutrality is not possible to maintain. The author demonstrates the advantages of systematic training in TFP within psychoanalytic institutes as a true enrichment of technical training. He proposes that psychoanalysis as a profession consists of a broad spectrum of treatment approaches based upon the combined utilization of psychoanalytic techniques, with specific modifications to be organized in specific forms of psychoanalytic psychotherapy. TFP may be the closest modification to standard psychoanalysis proper and is clearly defined and manualized. This has permitted empirical research that has already demonstrated the effectiveness of TFP.
Contemporary Supportive Therapy: A Review of History, Theory, and Evidence
Authors: Van Den Beldt Holly M. , Ruble Anne E. , Welton Randon S. , Crocker Erin M.
Published: December 2021

Supportive psychotherapy interventions were developed as a part of psychodynamic psychotherapy work, and supportive psychotherapy was historically considered to be the default form of therapy only for lower-functioning patients. These roots unfortunately have resulted in supportive psychotherapy being viewed as an inferior form of treatment. In reality, supportive psychotherapy is a practical and flexible form of psychotherapy that helps patients with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and substance use disorders. In addition, supportive psychotherapy can be well-suited to higher-functioning patients, as well as to patients who are chronically lower-functioning. There is also evidence to support the use of supportive psychotherapy in patients with certain medical illnesses, including coronary artery disease, some gastrointestinal illnesses, HIV infection, and certain types of cancer. The goals of supportive psychotherapy include helping patients to understand emotional experiences, improving affective regulation and reality-testing, making use of their most effective coping strategies, and engaging in collaborative problem solving to reduce stressors and increase effective engagement with support systems.
Rapid Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Reveals That TRPV4 Channels Promote Dysregulation of Neuronal Na+in Ischemia
Authors: Meyer Jan , Gerkau Niklas J. , Kafitz Karl W. , Patting Matthias , Jolmes Fabian , Henneberger Christian , Rose Christine R.
Published: December 2021

Fluorescence imaging is an indispensable method for analysis of diverse cellular and molecular processes, enabling, for example, detection of ions, second messengers, or metabolites. Intensity-based approaches, however, are prone to artifacts introduced by changes in fluorophore concentrations. This drawback can be overcome by fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) based on time-correlated single-photon counting. FLIM often necessitates long photon collection times, resulting in strong temporal binning of dynamic processes. Recently, rapidFLIM was introduced, exploiting ultra-low dead-time photodetectors together with rapid electronics. Here, we demonstrate the applicability of rapidFLIM, combined with new and improved correction schemes, for spatiotemporal fluorescence lifetime imaging of low-emission fluorophores in a biological system. Using tissue slices of hippocampi of mice of either sex, loaded with the Na+indicator ING2, we show that improved rapidFLIM enables quantitative, dynamic imaging of neuronal Na+signals at a full-frame temporal resolution of 0.5 Hz. Induction of transient chemical ischemia resulted in unexpectedly large Na+influx, accompanied by considerable cell swelling. Both Na+loading and cell swelling were dampened on inhibition of TRPV4 channels. Together, rapidFLIM enabled the spatiotemporal visualization and quantification of neuronal Na+transients at unprecedented speed and independent from changes in cell volume. Moreover, our experiments identified TRPV4 channels as hitherto unappreciated contributors to neuronal Na+loading on metabolic failure, suggesting this pathway as a possible target to ameliorate excitotoxic damage. Finally, rapidFLIM will allow faster and more sensitive detection of a wide range of dynamic signals with other FLIM probes, most notably those with intrinsic low-photon emission.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTFLIM is an indispensable method for analysis of cellular processes. FLIM often necessitates long photon collection periods, requiring the sacrifice of temporal resolution at the expense of spatial information. Here, we demonstrate the applicability of the recently introduced rapidFLIM for quantitative, dynamic imaging with low-emission fluorophores in brain slices. RapidFLIM, combined with improved correction schemes, enabled intensity-independent recording of neuronal Na+transients at unprecedented full-frame rates of 0.5 Hz. It also allowed quantitative imaging independent from changes in cell volume, revealing a surprisingly strong and hitherto uncovered contribution of TRPV4 channels to Na+loading on energy failure. Collectively, our study thus provides a novel, unexpected insight into the mechanisms that are responsible for Na+changes on energy depletion.
Effects of Light Isoflurane Anesthesia on Organization of Direction and Orientation Selectivity in the Superficial Layer of the Mouse Superior Colliculus
Authors: Kasai Masatoshi , Isa Tadashi
Published: December 2021

The superior colliculus (SC) is the midbrain center for integrating visual and multimodal sensory information. Neurons in the SC exhibit direction and orientation selectivity. Recent studies reported that neurons with similar preferences formed clusters in the mouse SC (Ahmadlou and Heimel, 2015; Feinberg and Meister, 2015; de Malmazet et al., 2018; Li et al., 2020). However, it remains controversial as to how these clusters are organized within the SC (Inayat et al., 2015; Chen et al., 2021). Here, we found that different brain states (i.e., awake or anesthetized with isoflurane) changed the selectivity of individual SC neurons and organizations of the neuronal population in both male and female mice. Using two-photon Ca2+imaging, we examined both individual neuronal responses and the spatial patterns of their population responses. Under isoflurane anesthesia, orientation selectivity increased and a larger number of orientation-selective cells were observed when compared with the awake condition, whereas the proportions of direction-selective cells were similar in both conditions. Furthermore, direction- and orientation-selective cells located at closer positions showed more similar preferences, and cluster-like spatial patterns were enhanced. Inhibitory responses of direction-selective neurons were also reduced under isoflurane anesthesia. Thus, the changes in the spatial organization of response patterns were considered to be because of changes in the balance of excitation and inhibition, with excitation dominance, in the local circuits. These results provide new insights into the possibility that the functional organization of feature selectivity in the brain is affected by brain state.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRecent large-scale recording studies are changing our view of visual maps in the superior colliculus (SC), including findings of cluster-like localizations of direction- and orientation-selective neurons. However, results from several laboratories are conflicting regarding the presence of cluster-like organization. Here, we demonstrated that light isoflurane anesthesia affected the direction- and orientation-tuning properties in the mouse superficial SC and that their cluster-like localization pattern was enhanced by the anesthesia. Furthermore, the effect of anesthesia on direction selectivity appeared to be different in the excitatory and inhibitory populations in the SC. Our results suggest that the functional organization of direction and orientation selectivity might be regulated by the excitation–inhibition balance that depends on the brain state.
Lunatic Fringe-GFP Marks Lamina-Specific Astrocytes That Regulate Sensory Processing
Authors: Akdemir Ekin Su , Woo Junsung , Bosquez Huerta Navish A. , Lozzi Brittney , Groves Andrew K. , Harmanci Akdes Serin , Deneen Benjamin
Published: December 2021

Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cell in the brain and perform a wide range of tasks that support neuronal function and circuit activities. There is emerging evidence that astrocytes exhibit molecular and cellular heterogeneity; however, whether distinct subpopulations perform these diverse roles remains poorly defined. Here we show that the Lunatic Fringe-GFP (Lfng-GFP) bacteria artificial chromosome mouse line from both sexes specifically labels astrocyte populations within lamina III and IV of the dorsal spinal cord. Transcriptional profiling of Lfng-GFP+astrocytes revealed unique molecular profiles, featuring an enriched expression of Notch- and Wnt- pathway components. Leveraging CRE-DOG viral tools, we ablated Lfng-GFP+astrocytes, which decreased neuronal activity in lamina III and IV and impaired mechanosensation associated with light touch. Together, our findings identify Lfng-GFP+astrocytes as a unique subpopulation that occupies a distinct anatomic location in the spinal cord and directly contributes to neuronal function and sensory responses.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAstrocytes are the most abundant glial cell in the CNS, and their interactions with neurons are essential for brain function. However, understanding the functional diversity of astrocytes has been hindered because of the lack of reporters that mark subpopulations and genetic tools for accessing them. We discovered that the Lfng-GFP reporter mouse labels a laminae-specific subpopulation of astrocytes in the dorsal spinal cord and that ablation of these astrocytes reduces glutamatergic synapses. Further analysis revealed that these astrocytes have a role in maintaining sensory-processing circuity related to light touch.
Report of a family with three generations of undiagnosed familial nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism
Authors: Stephenson Alexandra , Punjwani Zoya , Eszlinger Markus , Sawicka Beata , Bossowski Artur , Paschke Ralf
Published: December 2021

Familial nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism (FNAH) is rare and occurs due to a constitutively activating thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) germline mutation. Forty-one families with FNAH have been reported so far. In the study, 17 of 41 families were not diagnosed with FNAH until three generations or more were described with hyperthyroidism. We report a case of FNAH diagnosed in the third generation. The index patient was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism at age 3. Large fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels occurred during anti-thyroid drug treatment, and he developed a goiter. The patient’s mother had similar history, requiring two surgical interventions and radioiodine treatment. The younger brother of the index patient did not experience large thyroid hormone level fluctuations, nor increased thyroid growth. A heterozygous TSHR c.1357A>G mutation, resulting in a M453V amino acid exchange, was detected in all three patients leading to FNAH diagnosis, with complete genotype–phenotype segregation. Based on Sorting intolerant from tolerant (SIFT) and PolyPhen2 scores of 0.01 and 0.99, respectively, an effect on protein function can be assumed. As illustrated by this family with FNAH, total thyr oidectomy is necessary for patients with nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism. Development of goiter is common, anti-thyroid drug treatment is often difficult, and remission of hyperthyroidism does not occur after discontinuation of anti-thyroid drug treatment. Thus, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of FNAH is necessary to avoid predictable, unnecessary complications and further surgical interventions.

Learning points

In the study, 19/42 cases of familial nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism (FNAH), including the reported case, were not diagnosed as FNAH until the third generation; this lead to suboptimal treatment and frequent relapses of nonautoimmune hyperthyroidism (NAH).

Detection of thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) mutations in patients with suspected FNAH to confirm diagnosis is essential to ensure proper treatment for the patient and further affected family members.

NAH will persist without proper treatment by total thyroidectomy.

Symptoms and age of onset may vary between family members

All family members with a TSHR germline mutation should be monitored with thyroid-stimulating hormone and for symptoms throughout their lives.
Preoperative calcitonin testing improves the diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma in female and male patients
Authors: Weber Theresia , Poplawski Alicia , Vorländer Christian , Dotzenrath Cornelia , Ringelband Rolf , Schabram Jochen , Passler Christian , Zielke Andreas , Schlegel Nicolas , Nies Christoph , Krenz Detlef , Jähne Joachim , Schwab Robert , Bartsch Detlef K , Binnebösel Marcel , Kemen Matthias , Klinger Carsten , Buhr Heinz , Lorenz Kerstin
Published: December 2021

Aim

Calcitonin (Ctn) measurement in patients with thyroid disease could potentially increase the detection rates of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) but remains a controversial issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate routine preoperative Ctn measurements.

Methods

All patients with thyroid surgery documented in the prospective StuDoQ|Thyroid registry between March 2017 and September 2020 were included. Cutoff levels for Ctn were determined with receiver-operating characteristic analyses to assess the preoperative diagnosis of MTC in subgroups for females and males.

Findings

In 29 590 of 39 679 patients (75%) participating in the registry, routine preoperative Ctn testing was performed. In 357 patients (227 females and 130 males), histopathology confirmed MTC with a mean tumor size of 14.7 mm (±12.43). Biochemical cure was achieved in 71.4% of the patients. Ctn levels between 11 and 20 pg/mL were seen in 2.6% of the patients, and only 0.7% of the patients had Ctn levels above 21 pg/mL. Cutoff levels for the diagnosis of MTC were 7.9 pg/mL for females and 15 pg/mL for males (P  < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity for females were 95 and 98%, and 96 and 97% for males, respectively.

Conclusion

Routine Ctn testing is a reliable predictor for MTC and provides the opportunity for earlier thyroidectomy before lymph node metastases occur, resulting in a better prognosis. Females with Ctn levels >7.9 pg/mL and males >15 pg/mL without any other extrathyroidal sources for an elevated Ctn should be monitored. Thyroid surgery should be considered if Ctn levels are increasing or ultrasound detects suspicious thyroid lesions.