bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INCREASING SCIENCE LEARNING OUTCOMES THROUGH DISCOVERY METHOD IN ONLINE LEARNING ON STUDENTS OF CLASS V SD NEGERI 27 PEKANBARU
Authors: Sitinjak Rosmidawati Br
Published: September 2021

This research is motivated by the low science learning outcomes of fifth grade students of SD Negeri 27 Pekanbaru. This can be seen from 1) the learning outcomes obtained by students are not optimal, this can be seen from the report card scores, especially in science subjects, most of the students have not reached the specified minimum completeness criteria (KKM), 2) students seem difficult to understand the material presented delivered by the teacher in class and students rarely answer the questions given by the teacher. This study aims to improve science learning outcomes in fifth grade students of SD Negeri 27 Pekanbaru. The subjects of this study were fifth grade students of SD Negeri 27 Pekanbaru with a total of 30 students. The form of research is classroom action research. The research instrument consisted of learning outcomes instruments and data collection instruments in the form of observation sheets for teacher activities and student activities. Based on the results of the analysis and discussion, it can be concluded that the application of the Discovery learning method in online learning can improve learning outcomes in science lessons for fifth grade students at SD Negeri 27 Pekanbaru. This success is evidenced by an increase in learning outcomes before taking action to cycle I and cycle II. Before taking action, student learning outcomes were classified as "Not Good" with a percentage of 40%, there was an increase in the first cycle to 53.3% with the criteria "Not Good". While student learning outcomes in cycle II also increased reaching 86.7% in the "Good" category, this proves that the application of the Discovery Learning Method in online learning can improve science learning outcomes for fifth grade students at SD Negeri 27 Pekanbaru.
IMPROVING THE READING ABILITY OF GRADE 2 STUDENTS AT SDN 031 ACROSS TEMBILAHAN SUB-DISTRICT USING COMIC MEDIA
Authors: Munawar Ali
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to improve the reading ability of grade 2 students at SDN 031 Across tembilahan sub-district of Indragiri Hilir, the subject of 11 students. The form of research is class action research to improve the learning process in class, the approach used is comic media to improve reading ability. The results showed that at the first meeting of cycle I teacher activity in learning activities only by 55% with a good enough category, then at the fourth meeting there was an increase of 90% with a good category. For student learning activities in the first cycle of meeting I obtained the percentage of student activity in the learning process only 53% with a good enough category, and at the fourth meeting obtained a percentage of 92% with a good category. The results of students' reading ability after learning reflection on the clarity indicator were scored by 3 in the moderate category, then on the word accuracy indicator was scored by 4 with a high category, and on the sound clarity indicator obtained a score of 4 with a high category. Judging from the results of the study of reading ability of grade 2 students at SDN 031 Seberang, there was a significant increase compared to the data in cycle I, it was proven that the application of comic media to students' reading ability is very effectively applied.
Analytical model of skip motion taking into account influence of head and balancing ropes
Authors: Zhuravkov Mikhail A. , Savchuk Vladimir P. , Nikolaitchik Michael A.
Published: September 2021

The article describes an analytical model of mine skip dynamics taking into account the presence of the head and balancing ropes and the existing curvilinearity of the guides. Expressions for the forces acting on the skip from the side of the guides have been constructed. It is shown, that the frequencies of natural vibrations of skip depend on the vertical acceleration and the distance traveled during its lifting. A graph (diagram) of skips vertical speed which observance does not lead to the appearance of skips vertical vibrations due to elasticity of the ropes is developed. An algorithm for finding the forces principal vector and the forces principal moment acting on the skip based on the reading of three accelerometers recording horizontal accelerations of skip during its movement is presented.
On solutions of the Chazy equation
Authors: Atrokhau Kiryl G. , Gromak Elena V.
Published: September 2021

The Chazy system determines the necessary and sufficient conditions for the absence of movable critical points of solutions of the particular third order differential equation that was considered by Chazy in one of the first papers on the classification of higher-order ordinary differential equations with respect to the Painlevé property. The solution of the complete Chazy system in the case of constant poles has been already obtained. However, the question of integrating the Chazy equation remained open until now. In this paper, we prove that in the case of constant poles, under some additional conditions, this equation is integrated in elliptic functions.
Penyadaran Masyarakat Akademik tentang Peranan Herbal dalam Peningkatan Sistem Imun
Authors: Mustikasari Diah , Kurniawan Andri , Rakhmawati Pipit
Published: September 2021

The immune system is an integrated body defense mechanism to prevent, inhibit, and eliminate antigens and also to repair infected cells or tissues. The immune system, which is grouped into innate immunity and adaptive immunity, is a natural force in the body that can be optimized to maintain the existence of life. This activity aimed to increase the awareness of students as part of the academic community cluster regarding the role of herbs in enhancing the immune system (immunity). This activity was carried out through an online socialization and focus group discussion (FGD) involving students and alumnus from Bangka Belitung University. The result of this activity was an increased understanding of students and alumus related to the immune system, namely the types, roles, and defense mechanisms of the body both cellular and humoral as well as an understanding of the role of herbs in the immune system. The results of this discussion were expected to provide knowledge and increase awareness of the importance of the immune system in life.
Mechanotransduction Regulates Reprogramming Enhancement in Adherent 3D Keratocyte Cultures
Authors: Li Shenyang , Ding Chengcheng , Guo Yonglong , Zhang Yanan , Wang Hao , Sun Xihao , Zhang Jun , Cui Zekai , Chen Jiansu
Published: September 2021

Suspended spheroid culture using ultralow attachment plates (ULAPs) is reported to effect corneal fibroblast reprogramming. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), with hydrophobic and soft substrate properties, facilitates adherent spheroid formation that promotes cellular physical reprogramming into stem-like cells without using transcription factors. However, it is still unknown whether the biophysical properties of PDMS have the same effect on adult human corneal keratocyte reprogramming. Here, PDMS and essential 8 (E8) medium were utilized to culture keratocyte spheroids and fibroblast spheroids, and the reprogramming results were compared. We provide insights into the probable mechanisms of the PDMS effect on spheroids. qPCR analysis showed that the expression of some stem cell marker genes (OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4, CMYC, ABCG2 and PAX6) was significantly greater in keratocyte spheroids than in fibroblast spheroids. The endogenous level of stemness transcription factors (OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4 and CMYC) was higher in keratocytes than in fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence staining revealed Klf4, Nanog, Sox2, ABCG2 and Pax6 were positively stained in adherent 3D spheroids but weakly or negatively stained in adherent 2D cells. Furthermore, OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4, HNK1, ABCG2 and PAX6 gene expression was significantly higher in adherent 3D spheroids than in adherent 2D cells. Meanwhile, SOX2, ABCG2 and PAX6 were more upregulated in adherent 3D spheroids than in suspended 3D spheroids. The RNA-seq analysis suggested that regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, TGFβ/BMP and HIF-1 signaling pathways induced changes in mechanotransduction, the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and hypoxia, which might be responsible for the effect of PDMS on facilitating reprogramming. In conclusion, compared to corneal fibroblasts, keratocytes were more susceptible to reprogramming due to higher levels of endogenous stemness transcription factors. Spheroid culture of keratocytes using PDMS had a positive impact on promoting the expression of some stem cell markers. PDMS, as a substrate to form spheroids, was better able to promote reprogramming than ULAPs. These results indicated that the physiological cells and culture conditions herein enhance reprogramming. Therefore, adherent spheroid culture of keratocytes using PDMS is a promising strategy to more safely promote reprogramming, suggesting its potential application for developing clinical implants in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Review: Nanomaterials for Reactive Oxygen Species Detection and Monitoring in Biological Environments
Authors: Huynh Gabriel T. , Kesarwani Vidhishri , Walker Julia A. , Frith Jessica E. , Meagher Laurence , Corrie Simon R.
Published: September 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and dissolved oxygen play key roles across many biological processes, and fluorescent stains and dyes are the primary tools used to quantify these species in vitro. However, spatio-temporal monitoring of ROS and dissolved oxygen in biological systems are challenging due to issues including poor photostability, lack of reversibility, and rapid off-site diffusion. In particular, ROS monitoring is hindered by the short lifetime of ROS molecules and their low abundance. The combination of nanomaterials and fluorescent detection has led to new opportunities for development of imaging probes, sensors, and theranostic products, because the scaffolds lead to improved optical properties, tuneable interactions with cells and media, and ratiometric sensing robust to environmental drift. In this review, we aim to critically assess and highlight recent development in nanosensors and nanomaterials used for the detection of oxygen and ROS in biological systems, and their future potential use as diagnosis tools.
Feasibility of Solar Updraft Towers as Photocatalytic Reactors for Removal of Atmospheric Methane–The Role of Catalysts and Rate Limiting Steps
Authors: Huang Yanfang , Shao Yimin , Bai Yang , Yuan Qingchun , Ming Tingzhen , Davies Philip , Lu Xiaohua , de Richter Renaud , Li Wei
Published: September 2021

Due to the alarming speed of global warming, greenhouse gas removal from atmosphere will be absolutely necessary in the coming decades. Methane is the second most harmful greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. There is an emerging technology proposed to incorporating photocatalysis with solar updraft Towers (SUT) to remove methane from the air at a planetary scale. In this study, we present a deep analysis by calculating the potential of methane removal in relation to the dimensions and configuration of SUT using different photocatalysts. The analysis shows that the methane removal rate increases with the SUT dimensions and can be enhanced by changing the configuration design. More importantly, the low methane removal rate on conventional TiO2 photocatalyst can be significantly improved to, for example, 42.5% on a more effective Ag-doped ZnO photocatalyst in a 200 MW SUT while the photocatalytic reaction is the rate limiting step. The factors that may further affect the removal of methane, such as more efficient photocatalysts, night operation and reaction zone are discussed as possible solutions to further improve the system.
Histone H3 Cleavage in Severe COVID-19 ICU Patients
Authors: Huckriede Joram , de Vries Femke , Hultström Michael , Wichapong Kanin , Reutelingsperger Chris , Lipcsey Miklos , Garcia de Frutos Pablo , Frithiof Robert , Nicolaes Gerry A. F.
Published: September 2021

The severity of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is associated with neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. During NET formation, cytotoxic extracellular histones are released, the presence of which is linked to the initiation and progression of several acute inflammatory diseases. Here we study the presence and evolution of extracellular histone H3 and several other neutrophil-related molecules and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in the plasma of 117 COVID-19-positive ICU patients. We demonstrate that at ICU admission the levels of histone H3, MPO, and DNA-MPO complex were all significantly increased in COVID-19-positive patients compared to control samples. Furthermore, in a subset of 54 patients, the levels of each marker remained increased after 4+ days compared to admission. Histone H3 was found in 28% of the patients on admission to the ICU and in 50% of the patients during their stay at the ICU. Notably, in 47% of histone-positive patients, we observed proteolysis of histone in their plasma. The overall presence of histone H3 during ICU stay was associated with thromboembolic events and secondary infection, and non-cleaved histone H3 was associated with the need for vasoactive treatment, invasive ventilation, and the development of acute kidney injury. Our data support the validity of treatments that aim to reduce NET formation and additionally underscore that more targeted therapies focused on the neutralization of histones should be considered as treatment options for severe COVID-19 patients.
Oral Microbiota Profile of Individuals Who Abuse Methamphetamine
Authors: Yang Yongde , Yu Xuan , Yang Xue , Zeng Kuan , Liu Guangya , Hao Wei , Zhang Sheng , Wang Gang
Published: September 2021

The poor oral health condition of individuals who abuse methamphetamine (MA) is well known. The roles of the oral and fecal microbiomes in addiction and nervous system diseases have been the focus of many studies. However, changes in the microbiota composition of MA users have not been reported. This was addressed in the present study in 20 MA users and 14 sex-matched healthy subjects. Saliva samples were collected and high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were performed to evaluate oral microbiome profiles. The results showed that species richness was significantly lower in the MA group than in the control group. Bacterial taxa that are known to be related to oral diseases such as Negativicutes, Veillonellaceae, Veillonella, and Selenomonadales had higher relative abundance in the MA group than in the control group, and the relative abundance of Prevotella melaninogenica—a putative etiologic agent of periodontal disease—was also higher. Avoiding MA use and improving oral hygiene practices over a short term (i.e., during hospitalization for 2 weeks) did not alter the oral microbiota composition of MA users. Although the causal relationship between changes in oral microbiome profile and MA abuse remains to be determined, our results suggest that oral disease prevention and treatment strategies are important for MA users.
SOCS3 Promotes ALV-J Virus Replication via Inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 Phosphorylation During Infection
Authors: Mo Guodong , Fu Huali , Hu Bowen , Zhang Qihong , Xian Mingjian , Zhang Zihao , Lin Ling , Shi Meiqing , Nie Qinghua , Zhang Xiquan
Published: September 2021

Avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) is an oncogenic retrovirus that causes immunosuppression and neoplastic diseases in poultry. Cytokine signal-transduction inhibitor molecule 3 (SOCS3) is an important negative regulator of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and plays certain roles in ALV-J infection. It is of significance to confirm the roles of SOCS3 in ALV-J infection and study how this gene affects ALV-J infection. In this study, we assessed the expression of the SOCS3 gene in vivo and in vitro, and investigated the roles of SOCS3 in ALV-J infection using overexpressed or interfered assays with the SOCS3 in DF-1 cells. The results showed that the SOCS3 expression of ALV-J infected chickens was different from uninfected chickens in the spleen, thymus and cecal tonsil. Further, SOCS3 is mainly expressed in the nucleus as determined by immunofluorescence assay. Overexpression of SOCS3 in DF-1 cells promoted the replication of ALV-J virus, and the expression of interferons (IFNα and INFβ), inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNFα) along with interferon-stimulating genes (CH25H, MX1, OASL, and ZAP). Conversely, interference of SOCS3 showed the opposite results. We also observed that SOCS3 promoted ALV-J virus replication by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 phosphorylation. In conclusion, SOCS3 promotes ALV-J replication via inhibiting the phosphorylation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. These results would advance further understanding of the persistent infection and the viral immune evasion of the ALV-J virus.
Case Report: Perioperative Kounis Syndrome in an Adolescent With Congenital Glaucoma
Authors: Capponi Guglielmo , Giovannini Mattia , Koniari Ioanna , Mori Francesca , Rubino Chiara , Spaziani Gaia , Calabri Giovanni Battista , Favilli Silvia , Novembre Elio , Indolfi Giuseppe , De Simone Luciano , Trapani Sandra
Published: September 2021

A 12-year-old male patient suffering from congenital glaucoma developed bradycardia, left ventricular failure, and hypotension after induction of anesthesia. Electrocardiography and echocardiography revealed a complete normalization of ECG and a complete spontaneous recovery in the cardiac function 72 hours from the beginning of the clinical manifestations, while cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging was performed, and coronary Computed Tomography scan revealed a myocardial bridge of a tract of the left anterior descendent coronary artery. Diagnosis of Kounis syndrome (KS) was made, a relatively novel, under-recognized clinical condition, defined as the manifestation of an acute coronary syndrome accompanied by mast cell activation and platelet aggregation involving interrelated and interacting inflammatory cells in the setting of allergic, hypersensitivity, anaphylactic or anaphylactoid insults. We described one of the first pediatric cases of KS related to anesthetic medications. In children, this syndrome has been only described in isolated case reports or small case series. Thus, it appears critical to report new cases of KS in children to increase the awareness of this disease in pediatric healthcare workers so as to enhance its early recognition and optimal therapeutic strategy. Furthermore, it appears of paramount importance the implementation of universal guidelines accepted by allergology and cardiology societies, in order to standardize the management of pediatric and adult patients with KS. Finally, a close collaboration between pediatric allergists and cardiologists seems fundamental for an optimal multidisciplinary patient care.
Using Restricted Cubic Splines to Study the Trajectory of Systolic Blood Pressure in the Prognosis of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zheng Shuai , Zhao Fengzhi , Yang Rui , Wu Wentao , Liu Hui , Ma Wen , Xu Fengshuo , Han Didi , Lyu Jun
Published: September 2021

Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still the most serious manifestation of coronary artery disease. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is the best predictor of blood pressure in AMI. Thus, its influence on AMI is necessary to be explored.

Methods: A total of 4,277 patients with AMI were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database. Chi-square test or Student's t-test was used to judge differences between groups, and Cox regression was used to identify factors that affect AMI prognosis. SBP was classified as low (<90 mmHg), normal (90–140 mmHg), or high (>140 mmHg), and a non-linear test was performed. Meaningful variables were incorporated into models for sensitivity analysis. Patient age was classified as low and high for subgroup analysis, and the cutoff value of the trajectory was identified. P < 0.05 indicates statistical significance.

Results: The effect of SBP on the prognosis of patients with AMI is non-linear. The risks in models 1–3 with low SBP are 6.717, 4.910, and 3.080 times those of the models with normal SBP, respectively. The risks in models 1–3 with high SBP are 1.483, 1.637, and 2.937 times those of the models with normal SBP, respectively. The cutoff point (95% confidence interval) of the trajectory is 114.489 mmHg (111.275–117.702 mmHg, all P < 0.001).

Conclusions: SBP has a non-linear effect on AMI prognosis. Low and high SBP show risks, and the risk of low SBP is obviously greater than that of high SBP.
Mechanisms of Post-Pancreatitis Diabetes Mellitus and Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes: A Review of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Gál Eleonóra , Dolenšek Jurij , Stožer Andraž , Czakó László , Ébert Attila , Venglovecz Viktória
Published: September 2021

Anatomical proximity and functional correlations between the exocrine and endocrine pancreas warrant reciprocal effects between the two parts. Inflammatory diseases of the exocrine pancreas, such as acute or chronic pancreatitis, or the presence of cystic fibrosis disrupt endocrine function, resulting in diabetes of the exocrine pancreas. Although novel mechanisms are being increasingly identified, the intra- and intercellular pathways regulating exocrine–endocrine interactions are still not fully understood, making the development of new and more effective therapies difficult. Therefore, this review sought to accumulate current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of diabetes in acute and chronic pancreatitis, as well as cystic fibrosis.
Nesfatin-1 Receptor: Distribution, Signaling and Increasing Evidence for a G Protein-Coupled Receptor – A Systematic Review
Authors: Rupp Sophia Kristina , Wölk Ellen , Stengel Andreas
Published: September 2021

Background

Nesfatin-1 is an 82-amino acid polypeptide, cleaved from the 396-amino acid precursor protein nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2) and discovered in 2006 in the rat hypothalamus. In contrast to the growing body of evidence for the pleiotropic effects of the peptide, the receptor mediating these effects and the exact signaling cascades remain still unknown.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted using a search in the Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. The keywords “nesfatin-1” combined with “receptor”, “signaling”, “distribution”, “pathway”, g- protein coupled receptor”, and “binding” were used to identify all relevant articles reporting about potential nesfatin-1 signaling and the assumed mediation via a Gi protein-coupled receptor.

Results

Finally, 1,147 articles were found, of which 1,077 were excluded in several steps of screening, 70 articles were included in this systematic review. Inclusion criteria were studies investigating nesfatin-1’s putative receptor or signaling cascade, observational preclinical and clinical studies, experimental studies, registry-based studies, cohort studies, population-based studies, and studies in English language. After screening for eligibility, the studies were assigned to the following subtopics and discussed regarding intracellular signaling of nesfatin-1 including the potential receptor mediating these effects and downstream signaling of the peptide.

Conclusion

The present review sheds light on the various effects of nesfatin-1 by influencing several intracellular signaling pathways and downstream cascades, including the peptide’s influence on various hormones and their receptors. These data point towards mediation via a Gi protein-coupled receptor. Nonetheless, the identification of the nesfatin-1 receptor will enable us to better investigate the exact mediating mechanisms underlying the different effects of the peptide along with the development of agonists and antagonists.
High Na+ Environments Impair Phagocyte Oxidase-Dependent Antibacterial Activity of Neutrophils
Authors: Krampert Luka , Bauer Katharina , Ebner Stefan , Neubert Patrick , Ossner Thomas , Weigert Anna , Schatz Valentin , Toelge Martina , Schröder Agnes , Herrmann Martin , Schnare Markus , Dorhoi Anca , Jantsch Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Infection and inflammation can augment local Na+abundance. These increases in local Na+levels boost proinflammatory and antimicrobial macrophage activity and can favor polarization of T cells towards a proinflammatory Th17 phenotype. Although neutrophils play an important role in fighting intruding invaders, the impact of increased Na+on the antimicrobial activity of neutrophils remains elusive. Here we show that, in neutrophils, increases in Na+(high salt, HS) impair the ability of human and murine neutrophils to eliminateEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureus. High salt caused reduced spontaneous movement, degranulation and impaired production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) while leaving neutrophil viability unchanged. High salt enhanced the activity of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38/MAPK) and increased the interleukin (IL)-8 release in a p38/MAPK-dependent manner. Whereas inhibition of p38/MAPK did not result in improved neutrophil defense, pharmacological blockade of the phagocyte oxidase (PHOX) or its genetic ablation mimicked the impaired antimicrobial activity detected under high salt conditions. Stimulation of neutrophils with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) overcame high salt-induced impairment in ROS production and restored antimicrobial activity of neutrophils. Hence, we conclude that high salt-impaired PHOX activity results in diminished antimicrobial activity. Our findings suggest that increases in local Na+represent an ionic checkpoint that prevents excessive ROS production of neutrophils, which decreases their antimicrobial potential and could potentially curtail ROS-mediated tissue damage.
FHR-5 Serum Levels and CFHR5 Genetic Variations in Patients With Immune Complex-Mediated Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and C3-Glomerulopathy
Authors: Garam Nóra , Cserhalmi Marcell , Prohászka Zoltán , Szilágyi Ágnes , Veszeli Nóra , Szabó Edina , Uzonyi Barbara , Iliás Attila , Aigner Christof , Schmidt Alice , Gaggl Martina , Sunder-Plassmann Gere , Bajcsi Dóra , Brunner Jürgen , Dumfarth Alexandra , Cejka Daniel , Flaschberger Stefan , Flögelova Hana , Haris Ágnes , Hartmann Ágnes , Heilos Andreas , Mueller Thomas , Rusai Krisztina , Arbeiter Klaus , Hofer Johannes , Jakab Dániel , Sinkó Mária , Szigeti Erika , Bereczki Csaba , Janko Viktor , Kelen Kata , Reusz György S. , Szabó Attila J. , Klenk Nóra , Kóbor Krisztina , Kojc Nika , Knechtelsdorfer Maarten , Laganovic Mario , Lungu Adrian Catalin , Meglic Anamarija , Rus Rina , Kersnik Levart Tanja , Macioniene Ernesta , Miglinas Marius , Pawłowska Anna , Stompór Tomasz , Podracka Ludmila , Rudnicki Michael , Mayer Gert , Rysava Romana , Reiterova Jana , Saraga Marijan , Seeman Tomáš , Zieg Jakub , Sládková Eva , Stajic Natasa , Szabó Tamás , Capitanescu Andrei , Stancu Simona , Tisljar Miroslav , Galesic Kresimir , Tislér András , Vainumäe Inga , Windpessl Martin , Zaoral Tomas , Zlatanova Galia , Józsi Mihály , Csuka Dorottya
Published: September 2021

Background

Factor H-related protein 5 (FHR-5) is a member of the complement Factor H protein family. Due to the homology to Factor H, the main complement regulator of the alternative pathway, it may also be implicated in the pathomechanism of kidney diseases where Factor H and alternative pathway dysregulation play a role. Here, we report the first observational study on CFHR5 variations along with serum FHR-5 levels in immune complex-mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (IC-MPGN) and C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) patients together with the clinical, genetic, complement, and follow-up data.

Methods

A total of 120 patients with a histologically proven diagnosis of IC-MPGN/C3G were enrolled in the study. FHR-5 serum levels were measured in ELISA, the CFHR5 gene was analyzed by Sanger sequencing, and selected variants were studied as recombinant proteins in ELISA and surface plasmon resonance (SPR).

Results

Eight exonic CFHR5 variations in 14 patients (12.6%) were observed. Serum FHR-5 levels were lower in patients compared to controls. Low serum FHR-5 concentration at presentation associated with better renal survival during the follow-up period; furthermore, it showed clear association with signs of complement overactivation and clinically meaningful clusters.

Conclusions

Our observations raise the possibility that the FHR-5 protein plays a fine-tuning role in the pathogenesis of IC-MPGN/C3G.
Is Antibody-Dependent Enhancement of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection Contributing to Congenital/Neonatal Chagas Disease?
Authors: Carlier Yves , Truyens Carine , Muraille Eric
Published: September 2021

The newborns of women infected with the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (the agent of Chagas disease) can be infected either before birth (congenitally), or after birth (as e.g., by vector route). Congenital Chagas disease can induce high levels of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Parasite-infected pregnant women transmit antibodies to their fetus. Antibodies, by opsonizing parasites, can promote phagocytosis and killing of T. cruzi by cells expressing FcγR, on the mandatory condition that such cells are sufficiently activated in an inflammatory context. Antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) is a mechanism well described in viral infections, by which antibodies enhance entry of infectious agents into host cells by exploiting the phagocytic FcγR pathway. Previously reported Chagas disease studies highlighted a severe reduction of the maternal-fetal/neonatal inflammatory context in parasite-transmitting pregnant women and their congenitally infected newborns. Otherwise, experimental observations brought to light ADE of T. cruzi infection (involving FcγR) in mouse pups displaying maternally transferred antibodies, out of an inflammatory context. Herein, based on such data, we discuss the previously unconsidered possibility of a role of ADE in the trans-placental parasite transmission, and/or the development of severe and mortal clinical forms of congenital/neonatal Chagas disease in newborns of T. cruzi-infected mothers.
Filamentous Bacteriophage—A Powerful Carrier for Glioma Therapy
Authors: Wang Yicun , Sheng Jiyao , Chai Jin , Zhu Cuilin , Li Xin , Yang Wei , Cui Ranji , Ge Tongtong
Published: September 2021

Glioma is a life-threatening malignant tumor. Resistance to traditional treatments and tumor recurrence present major challenges in treating and managing this disease, consequently, new therapeutic strategies must be developed. Crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is another challenge for most drug vectors and therapy medications. Filamentous bacteriophage can enter the brain across the BBB. Compared to traditional drug vectors, phage-based drugs offer thermodynamic stability, biocompatibility, homogeneity, high carrying capacity, self-assembly, scalability, and low toxicity. Tumor-targeting peptides from phage library and phages displaying targeting peptides are ideal drug delivery agents. This review summarized recent studies on phage-based glioma therapy and shed light on the developing therapeutics phage in the personalized treatment of glioma.
Socio-Ecological Systems Analysis and Health System Readiness in Responding to Dengue Epidemics in Ilala and Kinondoni Districts, Tanzania
Authors: Mboera Leonard E. G. , Sindato Calvin , Mremi Irene R. , Rumisha Susan F. , George Janeth , Ngolongolo Renfrid , Misinzo Gerald , Karimuribo Esron D. , Rweyemamu Mark M. , Haider Najmul , Hamid Muzamil Abdel , Kock Richard
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Since 2010, Tanzania has been experiencing frequent outbreaks of dengue. The objectives of this study were to carry out a socio-ecological systems (SES) analysis to identify risk factors and interventions and assess the readiness of the district in the prevention and control of dengue.

Methods

The study utilized a cross-sectional purposive selection of key stakeholders responsible for disease surveillance and response in human and animal sectors in Ilala and Kinondoni districts in Tanzania. A SES framework was used to identify drivers and construct perceived thematic causal explanations of the dengue outbreaks in the study districts. A mapping exercise was carried out to analyse the performance of the disease surveillance system at district and facility levels. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess the districts’ readiness in the response to dengue outbreak.

Results

The two districts were characterized by both urban and peri-urban ecosystems, with a mixture of planned and unplanned settlements which support breeding and proliferation of Aedes mosquitoes. The results indicate inadequate levels of readiness in the management and control of dengue outbreaks, in terms of clinical competence, diagnostic capacities, surveillance system and control/prevention measures. Mosquito breeding sites, especially discarded automobile tyres, were reported to be scattered in the districts. Constraining factors in implementing disease surveillance included both intrapersonal and interpersonal factors, lack of case management guidelines, difficult language used in standard case definitions, inadequate laboratory capacity, lack of appropriate rapid response teams, inadequate knowledge on outbreak investigation and inadequate capacities in data management.

Conclusion

The two districts had limited readiness in the management and control of dengue, in terms of clinical competence, diagnostic capacities, surveillance system and prevention and control measures. These challenges require the immediate attention by the authorities, as they compromise the effectiveness of the national strategy for community health support.
Cloud-Native Coastal Turbid Zone Detection Using Multi-Temporal Sentinel-2 Data on Google Earth Engine
Authors: Pertiwi Avi Putri , Lee Chengfa Benjamin , Traganos Dimosthenis
Published: September 2021

The lack of clarity in turbid coastal waters interferes with light attenuation and hinders remotely sensed studies in aquatic ecology such as benthic habitat mapping and bathymetry estimation. Although turbid water column corrections can be applied on regions with seasonal turbidity by performing multi-temporal analysis, different approaches are needed in regions where the water is constantly turbid or only exhibits subtle turbidity variations through time. This study aims to detect these turbid zones (TZs) in optically shallow coastal waters using multi-temporal Sentinel-2 surface reflectance datasets to improve the aforementioned studies. The herein framework can be paired with other aquatic ecology remote sensing studies to establish the clear water focus area and can also be used by decision makers to identify rehabilitation areas. We selected the coastlines of Guinea-Bissau, Tunisia, and west Madagascar as our case studies which feature wide-ranging turbidity intensities across tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean waters and applied three different methods for the TZ detection: Otsu’s method for bimodal thresholding, linear spectral unmixing, and Random Forest (RF) machine learning method on Google Earth Engine as an end-to-end process. Based on our experiments, the RF method yields good results in all study regions with overall accuracies ranging between 88 and 96% and F1-scores between 0.87 and 0.96. TZ detection is highly site-specific due to the inter-class variability that is mainly affected by the nature of the suspended materials and the environmental characteristics of the site.
Association Between White Blood Cells at Baseline and Treatment Failure of MTX for Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Chen Si , Chen Xiao-Feng , Qiu Pin , Huang Yan-Xi , Deng Gao-Pi , Gao Jie
Published: September 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate white blood cell (WBC) count as a risk factor related to methotrexate (MTX) treatment failure in patients with ectopic pregnancy (EP).

Methods: A total of 236 women diagnosed with EP and treated with a single dose of MTX were included. The exposure variable was WBC count at baseline, and the outcome was MTX treatment outcome. Both a multivariate binary logistics regression model and subgroup analysis were performed to evaluate the association between WBC and MTX non-response.

Results: WBC count was associated with the risk of treatment failure, and the odds ratio (OR) in different multivariate models was stable [minimally adjusted model: OR 1.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–1.3, p = 0.008; fully adjusted model: OR 1.2, 95% CI: 1.0–1.4, p = 0.026]. For WBCs in group T3 (>8.9 × 109/L), the association between WBC count and treatment failure was significant (minimally adjusted model: OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.0–3.8, p = 0.050; fully adjusted model: OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.1–5.6, p = 0.034). Subgroup analysis showed that in participants with regular menstruation (OR 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.3), WBC count was significantly different from irregular menstruation (OR 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.8); p for interaction was 0.031.

Conclusions: We found a reliable and non-linear relationship between WBC count and MTX treatment failure for EP.
Molecular Analysis of Glutamate Decarboxylases in Enterococcus avium
Authors: Gu Xinyi , Zhao Jiancun , Zhang Rongling , Yu Ruohan , Guo Tingting , Kong Jian
Published: September 2021

Enterococcus avium (E. avium) is a common bacterium inhabiting the intestines of humans and other animals. Most strains of this species can produce gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) via the glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) system, but the presence and genetic organization of their GAD systems are poorly characterized. In this study, our bioinformatics analyses showed that the GAD system in E. avium strains was generally encoded by three gadB genes (gadB1, gadB2, and gadB3), together with an antiporter gene (gadC) and regulator gene (gadR), and these genes are organized in a cluster. This finding contrasts with that for other lactic acid bacteria. E. avium SDMCC050406, a GABA producer isolated from human feces, was employed to investigate the contribution of the three gadB genes to GABA biosynthesis. The results showed that the relative expression level of gadB3 was higher than those of gadB1 and gadB2 in the exponential growth and stationary phases, and this was accompanied by the synchronous transcription of gadC. After heterologous expression of the three gadB genes in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3), the Km value of the purified GAD3 was 4.26 ± 0.48 mM, a value lower than those of the purified GAD1 and GAD2. Moreover, gadB3 gene inactivation caused decreased GABA production, accompanied by a reduction in resistance to acid stress. These results indicated that gadB3 plays a crucial role in GABA biosynthesis and this property endowed the strain with acid tolerance. Our findings provided insights into how E. avium strains survive the acidic environments of fermented foods and throughout transit through the stomach and gut while maintaining cell viability.
Secrets of the Hospital Underbelly: Patterns of Abundance of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Hospital Wastewater Vary by Specific Antimicrobial and Bacterial Family
Authors: Perry Meghan R. , Lepper Hannah C. , McNally Luke , Wee Bryan A. , Munk Patrick , Warr Amanda , Moore Barbara , Kalima Pota , Philip Carol , de Roda Husman Ana Maria , Aarestrup Frank M. , Woolhouse Mark E. J. , van Bunnik Bram A. D.
Published: September 2021

Background: Hospital wastewater is a major source of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) outflow into the environment. This study uses metagenomics to study how hospital clinical activity impacts antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) abundances in hospital wastewater.

Methods: Sewage was collected over a 24-h period from multiple wastewater collection points (CPs) representing different specialties within a tertiary hospital site and simultaneously from community sewage works. High throughput shotgun sequencing was performed using Illumina HiSeq4000. ARG abundances were correlated to hospital antimicrobial usage (AMU), data on clinical activity and resistance prevalence in clinical isolates.

Results: Microbiota and ARG composition varied between CPs and overall ARG abundance was higher in hospital wastewater than in community influent. ARG and microbiota compositions were correlated (Procrustes analysis, p=0.014). Total antimicrobial usage was not associated with higher ARG abundance in wastewater. However, there was a small positive association between resistance genes and antimicrobial usage matched to ARG phenotype (IRR 1.11, CI 1.06–1.16, p<0.001). Furthermore, analyzing carbapenem and vancomycin resistance separately indicated that counts of ARGs to these antimicrobials were positively associated with their increased usage [carbapenem rate ratio (RR) 1.91, 95% CI 1.01–3.72, p=0.07, and vancomycin RR 10.25, CI 2.32–49.10, p<0.01]. Overall, ARG abundance within hospital wastewater did not reflect resistance patterns in clinical isolates from concurrent hospital inpatients. However, for clinical isolates of the family Enterococcaceae and Staphylococcaceae, there was a positive relationship with wastewater ARG abundance [odds ratio (OR) 1.62, CI 1.33–2.00, p<0.001, and OR 1.65, CI 1.21–2.30, p=0.006 respectively].

Conclusion: We found that the relationship between hospital wastewater ARGs and antimicrobial usage or clinical isolate resistance varies by specific antimicrobial and bacterial family studied. One explanation, we consider is that relationships observed from multiple departments within a single hospital site will be detectable only for ARGs against parenteral antimicrobials uniquely used in the hospital setting. Our work highlights that using metagenomics to identify the full range of ARGs in hospital wastewater is a useful surveillance tool to monitor hospital ARG carriage and outflow and guide environmental policy on AMR.
Relative Importance of Stochastic Assembly Process of Membrane Biofilm Increased as Biofilm Aged
Authors: Matar Gerald K. , Ali Muhammad , Bagchi Samik , Nunes Suzana , Liu Wen-Tso , Saikaly Pascal E.
Published: September 2021

The relative importance of different ecological processes controlling biofilm community assembly over time on membranes with different surface characteristics has never been investigated in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). In this study, five ultrafiltration hollow-fiber membranes – having identical nominal pore size (0.1μm) but different hydrophobic or hydrophilic surface characteristics – were operated simultaneously in the same MBR tank with a constant flux of 10 liters per square meter per hour (LMH). In parallel, membrane modules operated without permeate flux (0 LMH) were submerged in the same MBR tank, to investigate the passive microbial adsorption onto different hydrophobic or hydrophilic membranes. Samples from the membrane biofilm were collected after 1, 10, 20, and 30days of continuous filtration. The membrane biofilm microbiome were investigated using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing from DNA and cDNA samples. Similar beta diversity trends were observed for both DNA- and cDNA-based analyses. Beta diversity analyses revealed that the nature of the membrane surface (i.e., hydrophobic vs. hydrophilic) did not seem to have an effect in shaping the bacterial community, and a similar biofilm microbiome evolved for all types of membranes. Similarly, membrane modules operated with and without permeate flux did not significantly influence alpha and beta diversity of the membrane biofilm. Nevertheless, different-aged membrane biofilm samples exhibited significant differences. Proteobacteria was the most dominant phylum in early-stage membrane biofilm after 1 and 10days of filtration. Subsequently, the relative reads abundance of the phyla Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes increased within the membrane biofilm communities after 20 and 30days of filtration, possibly due to successional steps that lead to the formation of a relatively aged biofilm. Our findings indicate distinct membrane biofilm assembly patterns with different-aged biofilm. Ecological null model analyses revealed that the assembly of early-stage biofilm community developed after 1 and 10days of filtration was mainly governed by homogenous selection. As the biofilm aged (days 20 and 30), stochastic processes (e.g., ecological drift) started to become important in shaping the assembly of biofilm community.
Different Amounts of Nitrogen Fertilizer Applications Alter the Bacterial Diversity and Community Structure in the Rhizosphere Soil of Sugarcane
Authors: Gu Yan , Wang Jihua , Cai Weijun , Li Guoliang , Mei Yu , Yang Shaohai
Published: September 2021

Sugarcane cropping systems receive elevated application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer for higher production, which may affect production costs and cause environmental pollution. Therefore, it is critical to elucidate the response of soil microbial to N fertilizer inputs in sugarcane soil. A field experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of optimum (N375, 375 kg N/ha) and excessive (N563, 563 kg N/ha) amounts of N fertilizer on soil bacterial diversity and community structure in a sugarcane cropping system by MiSeq high-throughput sequencing; 50,007 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene amplicons. Results showed that the most abundant phyla in the sugarcane rhizosphere soil were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Planctomycetes, whose ensemble mean accounted for 74.29%. Different amounts of N application indeed change the bacterial diversity and community structures. Excessive application of N fertilizers significantly decreased the pH and increased the available N in soils and unexpectedly obtained a lower yield. Excessive N resulted in a relatively lower bacterial species richness and significantly increased the relative abundance of phyla Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Bacteroidetes and the genera Sphingomonas and Gemmatimonas, while optimum N treatment significantly increased the phylum Actinobacteria and the genera Bacillus and Nitrospira (P < 0.05). N application shifted the N cycle in nitrification, mainly on the Nitrospira, but showed no significant effect on the genera related to nitrogen fixation, methane oxidation, sulfate reduction, and sulfur oxidation (P > 0.05). Overall, the optimum amount of N application might be conducive to beneficial microorganisms, such as Actinobacteria, Nitrospira, and Bacillus and, thus, result in a healthier ecosystem and higher sustainable crop production.
Comprehensive Analysis of Bacterial Community Structure and Diversity in Sichuan Dark Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Yan Kuan , Yan Linfeng , Meng Lina , Cai Hongbing , Duan Ailing , Wang Lian , Li Quanzi , El-Sappah Ahmed H. , Zhao Xianming , Abbas Manzar
Published: September 2021

Bacteria and fungi present during pile-fermentation of Sichuan dark tea play a key role in the development of its aesthetic properties, such as color, taste, and fragrance. In our previous study, high-throughput sequencing of dark tea during fermentation revealed Aspergillus was abundant, but scarce knowledge is available about bacterial communities during pile-fermentation. In this study, we rigorously explored bacterial diversity in Sichuan dark tea at each specific stage of piling. Analysis of cluster data revealed 2,948 operational taxonomic units, which were divided into 42 phyla, 98 classes, 247 orders, 461 families, 1,052 genera, and 1,888 species. Certain members of the family Enterobacteriaceae were dominant at early stages of fermentation YC, W1, and W2; Pseudomonas at middle stage W3; and the highest bacterial diversity was observed at the final quality-determining stage W4. Noticeably, probiotics, such as Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharopolyspora were also significantly higher at the quality-determining stage W4. Our findings might help in precise bacterial inoculation for probiotic food production by increasing the health benefits of Sichuan dark tea. This research also falls under the umbrella of the “Establish Good Health and Well-Being” Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations Organization.