bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leadership Mindset on the Triple Bottom Line
Authors: Omonije Ajibola
Published: January 2024

This article reflects the intricate relationship embodied in the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) – a trinity encompassing profit, people, and the planet – within the realm of global business objectives. It starts with a meticulous breakdown of the layers constituting the TBL. The narrative delves into the genesis of TBL, its acceptance into the business domain, and its pivotal role in the evaluation of sustainability. Supporting that profitability transcends traditional financial metrics, shedding light on an organisation's broader impact on society and the economy. The narrative then navigates through the social dimension, encapsulated by 'People,' championing equitable business practices and societal well-being. 'Planet' assumes a fair share of mention, advocating for environmental sustainability and a collective reduction in ecological footprints. As the article unfolds, it weaves a compelling tale of TBL's instrumental role in steering businesses towards global objectives and successful outcomes, emphasising the profound interconnectedness of profit, people, and the planet. Leadership emerges as a central protagonist, with a spotlight on the imperative of adopting a TBL mindset. This article further scrutinises the challenges and benefits that leaders encounter in embracing TBL, offering valuable insights into sustainable practices and solutions. This article also serves as a clarion call to action, urging leaders to seamlessly integrate TBL into their organisational fabric, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive landscape for the future of the business.
Desarrollo del aprendizaje y pensamiento autónomos en emprendimiento y gestión en el nivel de bachillerato
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador. Sede Ambato, Cabrera Tocto Olga María , Castro Sánchez Fernando De Jesús ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador. Sede Ambato
Published: January 2024

La complejidad de la práctica educativa trae como consecuencia cambios en los paradigmas empleados en las aulas de clases para la formación de estudiantes, por lo que es necesario propiciar en los ambientes de enseñanza espacios para el desarrollo del aprendizaje y pensamiento autónomo de los estudiantes, con el propósito que se conviertan en los principales protagonistas del quehacer educativo, a través de un proceso reflexivo, responsable y con compromiso individual. En este sentido, se llevó a cabo la investigación con el objetivo de “Elaborar una estrategia educativa didáctica para el desarrollo del aprendizaje y el pensamiento autónomo en el área de Emprendimiento y Gestión, dirigido a los estudiantes de bachillerato de la Unidad Educativa Velasco Ibarra, del cantón Guamote”, para ello se utilizó la escala de Likert con 26 ítems, aplicado a los estudiantes de la institución educativa, a través de un formulario en línea de Google Forms, además se realizó la valides del instrumento con Alfa de Combrach . Con la finalidad de corroborar los resultados se realizó una entrevista a cinco docentes y especialistas del instituto, con una guía de entrevista semi estructurada con cinco preguntas estándar, las cuales definieron los factores que forman parte del aprendizaje y pensamiento autónomo en las aulas de clases de la institución investigada.
Buenas prácticas de comercio justo en la economía popular y solidaria de la parroquia Machala
Authors:   Universidad Técnica de Machala, León Serrano Lady Andrea , León Serrano Ubaldo Segundo ,   Investigador independiente
Published: January 2024

Actualmente las alternativas de emprendimientos van en crecimiento con las posibilidades de brindar productos acordes a la economía del hogar, y así mismo los controles para que los mismos ofrezcan calidad y precios como parte de las iniciativas de la nueva forma de hacer economía social. El objetivo de la investigación se centró, en determinar la aplicación de las buenas prácticas de comercio justo en los emprendimientos de la Economía Popular y Solidaria (EPS) de la parroquia Machala. La metodología utilizada corresponde a enfoque mixto, de nivel descriptivo y exploratorio, los datos fueron obtenidos de encuestas aplicadas a los comercios de la localidad. Los resultados explican, que los negocios fueron de edad mayor, empezaron con una inversión inicial de más de Usd 2000 con fondos propios o familiares, la naturaleza de las actividades con mayor número de locales destacaron entre tienda de abarrotes hasta venta de útiles escolares, existe una aplicación empírica de las buenas prácticas de comercio justo y solidario como la reducción de desperdicios hasta la transparencia en el manejo de dinero, a pesar que existe poco acompañamiento de la EPS hacia los comercios en los procesos de desarrollo del producto, los emprendedores mantienen la iniciativa de impulsar su actividad comercial ante la oportunidad y necesidad del mercado. Las conclusiones establecen, que los comercios aplicaron medianamente las buenas prácticas de comercio justo siendo indispensable la implementación de políticas públicas para una convivencia solidaria en equilibrio económico con productos de calidad y sostenibles para la localidad de estudio
Inteligencia emocional y su relación con las conductas disruptivas en adolescentes
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador. Sede Ambato, Andrade Briones Fabricio Arturo , Ramos Ramos Valentina ,   Escuela Politécnica Nacional
Published: January 2024

La adolescencia constituye una etapa crítica, que plantea una serie de exigencias y demanda determinadas destrezas intelectuales y conductuales de parte del sujeto. La inteligencia emocional es la facultad para identificar estados anímicos, controlar impulsos y gestionar emociones propias de tal forma que no afecten el bienestar individual, la producción laboral e interrelación con los demás. El escaso desarrollo de inteligencia emocional o una inadecuada gestión, puede ser factor causal de comportamientos inadecuados, entre los que figuran conductas de tipo disruptivo; caracterizadas por incumplimiento de normas, desobediencia, ignorancia de límites y hostilidad hacia la figura de autoridad o aquellas que hacen demandas específicas para cumplir ciertas normas y obligaciones; que se manifiestan en el medio familiar, escolar, laboral y social. Así, el presente trabajo tuvo por objeto determinar la relación entre inteligencia emocional y conductas disruptivas en adolescentes de Santo Domingo. Esta investigación se basó en el paradigma post- positivista, tuvo un diseño no experimental, de modalidad cuantitativa con alcance descriptivo correlacional, de corte transversal. Los instrumentos que se emplearon fueron Bar-On ICE (para medir inteligencia emocional), Escala de Problemas Emocionales y Conductuales (para determinar conductas disruptivas); la muestra seleccionada fue adolescentes escolarizados entre los 12 a 16 años, de una unidad educativa del cantón Santo Domingo. Los principales resultados determinaron que en el grupo destaca su lado interpersonal anclado a un mayor grado de pensamientos y conductas disruptivas. Se concluye, de este modo que, a mayor grado de socialización en los estudiantes, mayor nivel de pensamientos y conductas disruptivas
Buenas prácticas en la gestión pública
Authors:   Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi, Borja Brazales Yadira Paola , Gaucho Medina Ingrid Sofía ,   Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi
Published: January 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo diagnosticar las buenas prácticas de responsabilidad en la gestión pública de los Gobiernos Autónomos Descentralizados Municipales en este estudio se tomó en cuenta a la administración del cantón Latacunga, esta investigación se basa en el enfoque cuantitativo, el cual se sustenta en el positivismo de la Ciencia Administrativa, la técnica de investigación utilizada fue una encuesta aplicada a una unidad de estudio de 90 servidores públicos y 95 usuarios. En relación a la dimensión social, los resultados muestran que los servidores públicos realizan diversas acciones para mejorar el clima laboral interno, promoviendo en sus distintos departamentos la participación ciudadana en la gestión pública; dado que, implica un proceso de construcción social y de nuevas tendencias hacia el usuario. Los resultados de la encuesta aplicada a los usuarios que hacen uso del servicio que se brinda en las diferentes dependencias demuestra que existe una inconformidad sobre los servicios prestados.
Soil solarization as a non-chemical weed control method in tree nursery production systems of the Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Wada Nami , Berry Pete A. , Hill Brian , Mallory-Smith Carol , Parke Jennifer L.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Herbicide application in tree nurseries is limited because of the potential for chemical injury to the large diversity of trees species grown, the lack of registered products, and increasing restrictions on herbicide use, necessitating the costly practice of hand weeding. Soil solarization can reduce the weed seedbank by trapping solar energy under clear plastic film, resulting in high soil temperatures lethal to imbibed weed seeds and seedlings. The objective of this study was to determine if soil solarization would be an effective weed management strategy in Pacific Northwest, USA, tree production systems.

Methods

Field studies were conducted at three commercial tree nurseries in Oregon and Washington over two years to test soil solarization in reducing the naturally occurring weed seedbank and the time required to hand weed fields. Further field and laboratory tests were conducted with five weed species: Poa annua, Polygonum pensylvanicum, Amaranthus retroflexus, Portulaca oleracea, and Cyperus esculentus. Weed seeds and tubers were buried in packets at 5 and 10 cm to determine their viability after 6 weeks of solarization. A laboratory study was conducted with all but C. esculentus to quantify the exposure time at 45, 50, and 55°C required for 90% death (T90).

Results

Soil solarization was particularly effective in reducing the emergence of naturally occurring weeds in the fall and winter, when weed emergence was reduced by 94-96%. Emergence was reduced 67-81% during the subsequent spring and early summer. Nine to ten months after solarization, solarized areas had a 52 – 69% reduction in hand weeding time compared to non-solarized areas. In field trials with buried seed and tuber packets, mortality differed by location and depth, with P. annua and P. pensylvanicum having the greatest percent seed mortality followed by A. retroflexus and variable results for P. oleracea and C. esculentus. In lab studies, seed mortality differed depending on species and temperature; however, at 55°C, there was a relatively rapid drop in seed viability for all species, and T90 values ranged from 1.2 to 41 h whereas at 45°C the range was 47 to > 3000 h. Similar to the field studies, P. annua and P. pensylvancium were more sensitive to heat, followed by A. retroflexus and P. oleracea.

Conclusion

Soil solarization can be an effective weed management tool in reducing the weed seedbank in Pacific Northwest tree nurseries and other fall-sown crops but may not work for certain, thermotolerant weed species such as C. esculentus.
Protecting the regenerative environment: selecting the optimal delivery vehicle for cartilage repair—a narrative review
Authors: Campbell T. Mark , Trudel Guy
Published: January 2024

Focal cartilage defects are common in youth and older adults, cause significant morbidity and constitute a major risk factor for developing osteoarthritis (OA). OA is the most common musculoskeletal (MSK) disease worldwide, resulting in pain, stiffness, loss of function, and is currently irreversible. Research into the optimal regenerative approach and methods in the setting of either focal cartilage defects and/or OA holds to the ideal of resolving both diseases. The two fundamentals required for cartilage regenerative treatment are 1) the biological element contributing to the regeneration (e.g., direct application of stem cells, or of an exogenous secretome), and 2) the vehicle by which the biological element is suspended and delivered. The vehicle provides support to the regenerative process by providing a protective environment, a structure that allows cell adherence and migration, and a source of growth and regenerative factors that can activate and sustain regeneration. Models of cartilage diseases include osteochondral defect (OCD) (which usually involve one focal lesion), or OA (which involves a more diffuse articular cartilage loss). Given the differing nature of these models, the optimal regenerative strategy to treat different cartilage diseases may not be universal. This could potentially impact the translatability of a successful approach in one condition to that of the other. An analogy would be the repair of a pothole (OCD) versus repaving the entire road (OA). In this narrative review, we explore the existing literature evaluating cartilage regeneration approaches for OCD and OA in animal then in human studies and the vehicles used for each of these two conditions. We then highlight strengths and challenges faced by the different approaches presented and discuss what might constitute the optimal cartilage regenerative delivery vehicle for clinical cartilage regeneration.
Stretching of porous poly (l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) membranes regulates the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lee Geonhui , Han Seong-Beom , Kim Soo Hyun , Jeong Sangmoo , Kim Dong-Hwee
Published: January 2024

Background: Among a variety of biomaterials supporting cell growth for therapeutic applications, poly (l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) has been considered as one of the most attractive scaffolds for tissue engineering owing to its superior mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and processibility. Although extensive studies have been conducted on the relationship between the microstructure of polymeric materials and their mechanical properties, the use of the fine-tuned morphology and mechanical strength of PLCL membranes in stem cell differentiation has not yet been studied.

Methods: PLCL membranes were crystallized in a combination of diverse solvent–nonsolvent mixtures, including methanol (MeOH), isopropanol (IPA), chloroform (CF), and distilled water (DW), with different solvent polarities. A PLCL membrane with high mechanical strength induced by limited pore formation was placed in a custom bioreactor mimicking the reproducible physiological microenvironment of the vascular system to promote the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into smooth muscle cells (SMCs).

Results: We developed a simple, cost-effective method for fabricating porosity-controlled PLCL membranes based on the crystallization of copolymer chains in a combination of solvents and non-solvents. We confirmed that an increase in the ratio of the non-solvent increased the chain aggregation of PLCL by slow evaporation, leading to improved mechanical properties of the PLCL membrane. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the cyclic stretching of PLCL membranes induced MSC differentiation into SMCs within 10 days of culture.

Conclusion: The combination of solvent and non-solvent casting for PLCL solidification can be used to fabricate mechanically durable polymer membranes for use as mechanosensitive scaffolds for stem cell differentiation.
The biological role of extracellular vesicles in gastric cancer metastasis
Authors: Lei Yun , Cai Shuang , Zhang Chun-Dong , Li Yong-Shuang
Published: January 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is a tumor characterized by high incidence and mortality, with metastasis being the primary cause of poor prognosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are an important intercellular communication medium. They contain bioactive substances such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. EVs play a crucial biological role in the process of GC metastasis. Through mechanisms such as remodeling the tumor microenvironment (TME), immune suppression, promoting angiogenesis, and facilitating epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesothelial–mesenchymal transition (MMT), EVs promote invasion and metastasis in GC. Further exploration of the biological roles of EVs will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying GC metastasis and may provide novel targets and strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of GC. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms by which EVs influence GC metastasis from four aspects: remodeling the TME, modulating the immune system, influencing angiogenesis, and modulating the processes of EMT and MMT. Finally, we briefly summarized the organotropism of GC metastasis as well as the potential and limitations of EVs in GC.
Plant diversity in secondary, montane grasslands – a case study of the abandoned plantations of Mariepskop Mountain, South Africa
Authors: Swemmer Anthony M. , Lerm Rion E. , Thompson Dave I. , Graf Jan A. , Stone Lynne , Mashele Mightyman
Published: January 2024

Grasslands are one of the most threatened terrestrial ecosystem types, and montane grasslands of particular conservation concern. Despite high rates of transformation in recent decades, croplands and plantations are being abandoned in parts of many countries, creating an opportunity for conservation of montane grasslands through restoration. We report on the changes in the cover of major vegetation types (indigenous forest, grassland, and plantations) between 1935 and 2022, in an area that was intensively afforested from 1930 to 1960 and abandoned in 2000. Montane grassland at the site declined from over 50% of all landcover to below 15%, but subsequently recovered to 30% within 20 years. Many former plantations developed into secondary grassland with estimated gamma plant species richness of 231 for herbaceous species and 45 for savanna species. These are high values considering the size of the study area (4000 ha), and comparable to estimates from primary grassland sites in the broader region. However, at the scale of 1 m2 sampling quadrats, richness in the secondary grasslands was below that recorded in the last remaining patches of primary grassland at the site (means of 2.6 versus 4.7 for graminoid species, and 1.9 versus 2.9 for forbs). Some of the former Eucalyptus plantations had transformed into novel savannas dominated by fire-tolerant, resprouting trees, and may require more active restoration. Secondary grasslands such as those reported on here could potentially make a significant contribution to the conservation of montane biodiversity over the coming decades, warranting further research (both socio-economic and ecological) on the factors that lead to abandonment and promote the emerge of secondary grasslands of high diversity.
The role of structured inpatient lipid protocols in optimizing non-statin lipid lowering therapy: a review and single-center experience
Authors: Gier Chad , Gilchrist Ian , Fordham Matthew , Riordan Luke , Milchan Ella , Patel Nidhi , Mojahedi Azad , Choudhury Sahana , Kits Tara , Cohen Regina , Doughtery Joseph , Reilly John P. , Kalogeropoulos Andreas , Rahman Tahmid , Chen On
Published: January 2024

Dyslipidemia is a leading contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). There has been a significant improvement in the treatment of dyslipidemia in the past 10 years with the development of new pharmacotherapies. The intent of this review is help enhance clinicians understanding of non-statin lipid lowering therapies in accordance with the 2022 American College of Cardiology Expert Consensus Clinical Decision Pathway on the Role of Non-statin Therapies for LDL-Cholesterol Lowering. We also present a single-center experience implementing a systematic inpatient protocol for lipid lowering therapy for secondary prevention of ASCVD.
Non-invasive cardiac activation mapping and identification of severity of epicardial substrate in Brugada Syndrome: a case report
Authors: Iacopino Saverio , Sorrenti Paolo , Campagna Giuseppe , Fabiano Gennaro , Fabiano Emmanuel , Colella Jacopo
Published: January 2024

Introduction

It has recently been shown that electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) can be employed in individuals undergoing an ajmaline test who have Brugada Syndrome (BrS), to evaluate the extent of substrate-involved arrhythmia in the right ventricular overflow tract (RVOT). For the first time, we stratify the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in BrS during ajmaline testing using the dST-Tiso interval (a robust predictor of the inducibility of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) in the presence of drug-induced BrS type-1 pattern) in combination with ECGi technology.

Case presentation

We studied a 48-year-old man with BrS ECG type-2 pattern and presence of J-wave without a family history of SCD but with a previous syncope. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were performed, showing normal results. The ECG was performed to assess the novel ECG marker “dST-Tiso interval.” The 3D epicardial mapping of the RVOT surface was performed with the support of a non-contact cardiac mapping system in sinus rhythm during ajmaline infusion. The examination of the propagation map unveiled the presence of multiple conduction blocks in this pathologic epicardial region, and the conduction blocks were identified within the central part and/or near the boundary separating the normal and slow conduction areas.

Conclusion

The dST-Tiso interval, which lies between the onset and termination of the coved ST-segment elevation and serves as a robust predictor of VA inducibility in cases of drug-induced BrS type-1 pattern, was utilized in conjunction with ECGi technology (employed for the non-invasive confirmation and identification of the pathological substrate area). This combined approach was applied to stratify the risk of SCD in BrS during ajmaline testing, alongside clinical scores.
An investigation of mHealth and digital health literacy among new parents during COVID-19
Authors: Donelle Lorie , Hiebert Brad , Hall Jodi
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, parents were expected to understand increasingly sophisticated information about health issues and healthcare systems and access online resources as a part of their caregiving role. Yet little is known about parents' online digital technology use and digital health literacy skill. This study aimed to investigate parents' digital technology use, their self-reported digital health literacy skill, and demographic information as potential factors influencing their use of digital technologies.

Methods

An online survey utilizing convenience sampling was administered to new parents during the COVID-19 pandemic that inquired about their demographic information, digital technology use, and digital health literacy skills within Ontario, Canada.

Results

A total of 151 individuals responded to the survey; these were primarily mothers (80%) who self-reported as white (72%), well-educated 86%), heterosexual (86%) females (85%) with incomes over $100,00 per year (48%). Participants reported consistent and persistent online activity related to their parenting role and mostly via mobile smartphone devices (92%). Participants had moderate to high digital health literacy skills, greater than the Canadian national average. Almost half of participants reported negative health and well-being consequences from their digital online behaviours. There were no significant relationships between technology use, digital health literacy skill, and demographic variables.

Discussion

The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for and importance of effective and equitable digital health services. Important opportunities exist within clinical practice and among parenting groups to proactively address the physical and mental health implications of digital parenting practices. Equally important are opportunities to insert into clinical workflow the inquiry into parents' online information-seeking behaviours, and to include digital health literacy as part of prenatal/postnatal health education initiatives.
Review of the state of practice in geovisualization in the geosciences
Authors: Fitzpatrick Mia , Hedley Nick
Published: January 2024

Geosciences modelling and 3D geovisualization is growing and evolving rapidly. Driven by commercial urgency and an increase in data from sensor-based sources, there is an abundance of opportunities to analyze geosciences data in 3D and 4D. Geosciences modelling is developing in GIS based systems, 3D modelling through both game engines and custom programs, and the use of extended reality to further interact with data. The key limitations that are currently prevalent in 3D geovisualization in the geosciences are GIS representations having difficulty displaying 3D data and undergoing translations to pseudo-3D, thus losing fidelity, financial and personnel capital, processing issues with the terabytes worth of data and limited computing, digital occlusion and spatial interpretation challenges with users, and matching and alignment of 3D points. The future of 3D geovisualization lies in its accelerated growth, data management solutions, further interactivity in applications, and more information regarding the benefits and best practices in the field.
Forecasting model for short-term wind speed using robust local mean decomposition, deep neural networks, intelligent algorithm, and error correction
Authors: Li Jiawen , Liu Minghao , Wen Lei
Published: January 2024

Wind power generation has aroused widespread concern worldwide. Accurate prediction of wind speed is very important for the safe and economic operation of the power grid. This paper presents a short-term wind speed prediction model which includes data decomposition, deep learning, intelligent algorithm optimization, and error correction modules. First, the robust local mean decomposition (RLMD) is applied to the original wind speed data to reduce the non-stationarity of the data. Then, the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) is used to determine the optimal parameter combination of the bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) to ensure prediction quality. In order to eliminate the predictable components of the error further, a correction module based on the improved salp swarm algorithm (ISSA) and deep extreme learning machine (DELM) is constructed. The exploration and exploitation capability of the original SSA is enhanced by introducing a crazy operator and dynamic learning strategy, and the input weights and thresholds in the DELM are optimized by the ISSA to improve the generalization ability of the model. The actual data of wind farms are used to verify the advancement of the proposed model. Compared with other models, the results show that the proposed model has the best prediction performance. As a powerful tool, the developed forecasting system is expected to be further used in the energy system.
Pan-cancer and single-cell analysis reveal THRAP3 as a prognostic and immunological biomarker for multiple cancer types
Authors: Wang Ye-Peng , Ma Chao , Yang Xue-Kun , Zhang Nan , Sun Zhi-Gang
Published: January 2024

Background: Thyroid hormone receptor-associated protein 3 (THRAP3) is of great significance in DNA damage response, pre-mRNA processing, and nuclear export. However, the biological activities of THRAP3 in pan-cancer remain unexplored. We aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of THRAP3 and validate its expression levels in lung cancer.

Methods: A pan-cancer analysis was conducted to study the correlation of THRAP3 expression with clinical outcome and the tumor microenvironment based on the available bioinformatics databases. The protein levels of THRAP3 were explored in lung cancer by immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis. Single-cell sequencing (ScRNA-seq) analysis was employed to investigate the proportions of each cell type in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and adjacent normal tissues, along with the expression levels of THRAP3 within each cell type.

Results: THRAP3 is upregulated in multiple cancer types but exhibits low expression in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). immunohistochemistry results showed that THRAP3 is a lowly expression in LUAD and LUSC. THRAP3 elevation had a poor prognosis in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma and a prolonged survival time in kidney chromophobe, brain lower-grade glioma and skin cutaneous melanoma, as indicated by the KM curve. Single-cell analysis confirmed that the proportions of T/B cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts were significantly elevated in LUAD tissues, and THRAP3 is specifically overexpressed in mast cells.

Conclusion: Our findings uncover that THRAP3 is a promising prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target in multiple cancers, but in LUAD and LUSC, it may be a protective gene.
Whole genome sequencing identified genomic diversity and candidated genes associated with economic traits in Northeasern Merino in China
Authors: Yi Wenfeng , Hu Mingyue , Shi Lulu , Li Ting , Bai Chunyan , Sun Fuliang , Ma Huihai , Zhao Zhongli , Yan Shouqing
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Northeast Merino (NMS) is a breed developed in Northeast China during the 1960s for wool and meat production. It exhibits excellent traits such as high wool yield, superior meat quality, rapid growth rate, robust disease resistance, and adaptability to cold climates. However, no studies have used whole-genome sequencing data to investigate the superior traits of NMS.

Methods: In this study, we investigated the population structure, genetic diversity, and selection signals of NMS using whole-genome sequencing data from 20 individuals. Two methods (integrated haplotype score and composite likelihood ratio) were used for selection signal analysis, and the Fixation Index was used to explore the selection signals of NMS and the other two breeds, Mongolian sheep and South African meat Merino.

Results: The results showed that NMS had low inbreeding levels, high genomic diversity, and a pedigree of both Merino breeds and Chinese local breeds. A total length of 14.09 Mb genomic region containing 287 genes was detected using the two methods. Further exploration of the functions of these genes revealed that they are mainly concentrated in wool production performance (IRF2BP2, MAP3K7, and WNT3), meat production performance (NDUFA9, SETBP1, ZBTB38, and FTO), cold resistance (DNAJC13, LPGAT1, and PRDM16), and immune response (PRDM2, GALNT8, and HCAR2). The selection signals of NMS and the other two breeds annotated 87 and 23 genes, respectively. These genes were also mainly focused on wool and meat production performance.

Conclusion: These results provide a basis for further breeding improvement, comprehensive use of this breed, and a reference for research on other breeds.
The ‘analysis of gene expression and biomarkers for point-of-care decision support in Sepsis‘ study; temporal clinical parameter analysis and validation of early diagnostic biomarker signatures for severe inflammation andsepsis-SIRS discrimination
Authors: Szakmany Tamas , Fitzgerald Eleanor , Garlant Harriet N. , Whitehouse Tony , Molnar Tamas , Shah Sanjoy , Tong Dong Ling , Hall Judith E. , Ball Graham R. , Kempsell Karen E.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Early diagnosis of sepsis and discrimination from SIRS is crucial for clinicians to provide appropriate care, management and treatment to critically ill patients. We describe identification of mRNA biomarkers from peripheral blood leukocytes, able to identify severe, systemic inflammation (irrespective of origin) and differentiate Sepsis from SIRS, in adult patients within a multi-center clinical study.

Methods

Participants were recruited in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) from multiple UK hospitals, including fifty-nine patients with abdominal sepsis, eighty-four patients with pulmonary sepsis, forty-two SIRS patients with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OOHCA), sampled at four time points, in addition to thirty healthy control donors. Multiple clinical parameters were measured, including SOFA score, with many differences observed between SIRS and sepsis groups. Differential gene expression analyses were performed using microarray hybridization and data analyzed using a combination of parametric and non-parametric statistical tools.

Results

Nineteen high-performance, differentially expressed mRNA biomarkers were identified between control and combined SIRS/Sepsis groups (FC>20.0, p<0.05), termed ‘indicators of inflammation’ (I°I), including CD177, FAM20A and OLAH. Best-performing minimal signatures e.g. FAM20A/OLAH showed good accuracy for determination of severe, systemic inflammation (AUC>0.99). Twenty entities, termed ‘SIRS or Sepsis’ (S°S) biomarkers, were differentially expressed between sepsis and SIRS (FC>2·0, p-value<0.05).

Discussion

The best performing signature for discriminating sepsis from SIRS was CMTM5/CETP/PLA2G7/MIA/MPP3 (AUC=0.9758). The I°I and S°S signatures performed variably in other independent gene expression datasets, this may be due to technical variation in the study/assay platform.
Insights into innate immune cell evasion by Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Wang Xinglv , Wu Hongrong , Fang Chunxia , Li Zhongyu
Published: January 2024

Chlamydia trachomatis, is a kind of obligate intracellular pathogen. The removal of C. trachomatis relies primarily on specific cellular immunity. It is currently considered that CD4+ Th1 cytokine responses are the major protective immunity against C. trachomatis infection and reinfection rather than CD8+ T cells. The non-specific immunity (innate immunity) also plays an important role in the infection process. To survive inside the cells, the first process that C. trachomatis faces is the innate immune response. As the “sentry” of the body, mast cells attempt to engulf and remove C. trachomatis. Dendritic cells present antigen of C. trachomatis to the “commanders” (T cells) through MHC-I and MHC-II. IFN-γ produced by activated T cells and natural killer cells (NK) further activates macrophages. They form the body’s “combat troops” and produce immunity against C. trachomatis in the tissues and blood. In addition, the role of eosinophils, basophils, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), natural killer T (NKT) cells, γδT cells and B-1 cells should not be underestimated in the infection of C. trachomatis. The protective role of innate immunity is insufficient, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) caused by C. trachomatis infections tend to be insidious and recalcitrant. As a consequence, C. trachomatis has developed a unique evasion mechanism that triggers inflammatory immunopathology and acts as a bridge to protective to pathological adaptive immunity. This review focuses on the recent advances in how C. trachomatis evades various innate immune cells, which contributes to vaccine development and our understanding of the pathophysiologic consequences of C. trachomatis infection.
Oncological outcomes of sequential laparoscopic gastrectomy after treatment with camrelizumab combined with nab-paclitaxel plus S-1 for gastric cancer with serosal invasion
Authors: Lin Ju-Li , Lin Mi , Lin Guang-Tan , Zhong Qing , Lu Jun , Zheng Chao-Hui , Xie Jian-Wei , Wang Jia-bin , Huang Chang-Ming , Li Ping
Published: January 2024

Objective

To explore the oncological outcomes of sequential laparoscopic gastrectomy after treatment with camrelizumab in combination with nab-paclitaxel plus S-1 for the treatment of gastric cancer with serosal invasion.

Methods

This study is a retrospective cohort study and retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological data of 128 patients with serosal invasion gastric cancer (cT4NxM0) who received nab-paclitaxel + S-1(SAP) or camrelizumab + nab-paclitaxel + S-1 (C-SAP) regimen and underwent laparoscopy assisted gastrectomy in Fujian Union Hospital from March 2019 to December 2020. The patients were divided into SAP group and C-SAP group. The 2-years overall survival rate, 2-year recurrence free survival rate recurrence rate and initial recurrence time were compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 128 patients were included, including 90 cases in SAP group and 38 cases in C-SAP group. There were no significant differences in age, gender, gastrectomy method, surgical approach, R0 resection, nerve invasion, vascular invasion, total number of harvested lymph nodes, number of positive lymph nodes and major pathologic response (MPR) rate between the two groups (P>0.05). However, the proportion of ypT0, ypN0 and pCR rate in C-SAP group were significantly higher than those in SAP group (P<0.05). The 2-year OS of C-SAP group (80.7%) was higher than that of SAP group (67.8%), and the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.112); At 2 years after operation, the recurrence rate of C-SAP group (44.3%) was lower than that of SAP group (55.8%) (P = 0.097); Further analysis showed that the average time to recurrence in the C-SAP group was 18.9 months, which was longer than that in SAP group 13.1 months (P = 0.004); The 2-year recurrence free survival rate in C-SAP group was higher than that in SAP group (P=0.076); There was no significant difference in the overall survival time after recurrence between the two groups (P= 0.097).

Conclusion

Camrelizumab combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy can improve the proportion of ypT0, ypN0 and pCR in patients, while prolonging the initial recurrence time of patients in the C-SAP group, but did not increase the immunotherapy/chemotherapy related side effects and postoperative complications.
Etanercept treatment for pediatric toxic epidermal necrolysis induced by deflazacort: a case report and literature review
Authors: Jeong Min Song , Choi Yun Young , Ahn Yo Han , Lee Kyeonghun , Park Ji Soo , Suh Dong In
Published: January 2024

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a life-threatening mucocutaneous disorder commonly caused by drugs. TEN is often treated with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), or cyclosporine; however, the efficacy of these treatments is controversial. Etanercept (a TNF-α antagonist) was proven to decrease skin-healing time in a randomized clinical trial. Herein, we report the case of a 44-month-old boy who developed TEN due to deflazacort as the probable culprit drug and was successfully treated with etanercept. The patient presented to the emergency department complaining of erythematous maculopapular rashes and vesicles all over the face and body, with vesicles on the hands, feet, and trunk. Symptoms started 4 days before presentation, with edema of the upper lip, which progressed to erythematous macules over the body. He was started on deflazacort for nephrotic syndrome 21 days before the visit. Approximately 20% of the body surface area (BSA) was covered by vesicular lesions. Under the diagnosis of Steven Johnson syndrome/TEN, deflazacort was discontinued, and intravenous dexamethasone (1.5 mg/kg/day), a 5-day course of IVIG (0.4 mg/kg/day), and cyclosporine (3 mg/kg/day) were administered. The lesions seemed to be stationary for 3 days, but on the 6th day of hospitalization, when IVIG was discontinued, the vesicular lesions progressed to approximately 60% of the BSA. Etanercept 0.8 mg/kg was administered subcutaneously. Lesions stopped progressing, and bullous lesions started epithelialization. However, on the 15th day, around 30% of the BSA was still involved; thus, a second dose of etanercept was administered. No acute or sub-acute complications were observed. In conclusion, the use of etanercept in children with TEN that is not controlled with conventional therapy is both effective and safe.
Epacadostat stabilizes the apo-form of IDO1 and signals a pro-tumorigenic pathway in human ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Rossini Sofia , Ambrosino Sara , Volpi Claudia , Belladonna Maria Laura , Pallotta Maria Teresa , Panfili Eleonora , Suvieri Chiara , Macchiarulo Antonio , Mondanelli Giada , Orabona Ciriana
Published: January 2024

The tryptophan-degrading enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is a plastic immune checkpoint molecule that potently orchestrates immune responses within the tumor microenvironment (TME). As a heme-containing protein, IDO1 catalyzes the conversion of the essential amino acid tryptophan into immunoactive metabolites, called kynurenines. By depleting tryptophan and enriching the TME with kynurenines, IDO1 catalytic activity shapes an immunosuppressive TME. Accordingly, the inducible or constitutive IDO1 expression in cancer correlates with a negative prognosis for patients, representing one of the critical tumor-escape mechanisms. However, clinically trialed IDO1 catalytic inhibitors disappointed the expected anti-tumor efficacy. Interestingly, the non-enzymatic apo-form of IDO1 is still active as a transducing protein, capable of promoting an immunoregulatory phenotype in dendritic cells (DCs) as well as a pro-tumorigenic behavior in murine melanoma. Moreover, the IDO1 catalytic inhibitor epacadostat can induce a tolerogenic phenotype in plasmacytoid DCs, overcoming the catalytic inhibition of IDO1. Based on this recent evidence, IDO1 plasticity was investigated in the human ovarian cancer cell line, SKOV-3, that constitutively expresses IDO1 in a dynamic balance between the holo- and apo-protein, and thus potentially endowed with a dual function (i.e., enzymatic and non-enzymatic). Besides inhibiting the catalytic activity, epacadostat persistently stabilizes the apo-form of IDO1 protein, favoring its tyrosine-phosphorylation and promoting its association with the phosphatase SHP-2. In SKOV-3 cells, both these early molecular events activate a signaling pathway transduced by IDO1 apo-protein, which is independent of its catalytic activity and contributes to the tumorigenic phenotype of SKOV-3 cells. Overall, our findings unveiled a new mechanism of action of epacadostat on IDO1 target, repositioning the catalytic inhibitor as a stabilizer of the apo-form of IDO1, still capable of transducing a pro-tumorigenic pathway in SKOV-3 tumor. This mechanism could contribute to clarify the lack of effectiveness of epacadostat in clinical trials and shed light on innovative immunotherapeutic strategies to tackle IDO1 target.
Heat shock proteins, thermotolerance, and insecticide resistance in mosquitoes
Authors: Mack Lindsey K. , Attardo Geoffrey M.
Published: January 2024

Mosquitoes transmit pathogens that pose a threat to millions of people globally. Unfortunately, widespread insecticide resistance makes it difficult to control these public health pests. General mechanisms of resistance, such as target site mutations or increased metabolic activity, are well established. However, many questions regarding the dynamics of these adaptations in the context of developmental and environmental conditions require additional exploration. One aspect of resistance that deserves further study is the role of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in insecticide tolerance. Studies show that mosquitoes experiencing heat stress before insecticide exposure demonstrate decreased mortality. This is similar to the observed reciprocal reduction in mortality in mosquitoes exposed to insecticide prior to heat stress. The environmental shifts associated with climate change will result in mosquitoes occupying environments with higher ambient temperatures, which could enhance existing insecticide resistance phenotypes. This physiological relationship adds a new dimension to the problem of insecticide resistance and further complicates the challenges that vector control and public health personnel face. This article reviews studies illustrating the relationship between insecticide resistance and HSPs or hsp genes as well as the intersection of thermotolerance and insecticide resistance. Further study of HSPs and insecticide resistance could lead to a deeper understanding of how environmental factors modulate the physiology of these important disease vectors to prepare for changing climatic conditions and the development of novel strategies to prevent vector-borne disease transmission.
Acoustic estimates of sperm whale abundance in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative
Authors: Boisseau Oliver , Reid Jonathan , Ryan Conor , Moscrop Anna , McLanaghan Richard , Panigada Simone
Published: January 2024

Acoustic surveys for sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) were conducted in the Mediterranean Sea in summer 2018 as part of the vessel-based component of the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative (ASI). Equal-spaced zigzag transects provided uniform coverage of key sperm whale habitats and were surveyed using a towed hydrophone array deployed from a research vessel at speeds of 5-8 knots. A total of 14,039 km of tracklines were surveyed in the western basin, Hellenic Trench and Libyan waters, with an acoustic coverage of 10% realised for sperm whales. During these surveys, 254 individual sperm whales were detected on the trackline, with an additional 66 individuals off-track. Sperm whales were only seen ten times on-track, with an additional 16 off-track sightings. Estimates of slant range to echolocating whales were used to derive density estimates through both design- and model-based distance sampling methodologies. An acoustic availability of 0.912 (sd = 0.036) was derived from via published models. When correcting for availability bias, a design-based abundance estimates of 2,673 individuals (95% CI 1,739-4,105; CV = 0.21) was derived for the surveyed blocks, which incorporated most known sperm whale habitat in the Mediterranean Sea. The equivalent model-based estimate was 2,825 whales (2,053-3,888; CV = 0.16). Over 97% of detected whales were in the western basin, with highest densities in the Algerian and Liguro-Provencal Basins between Algeria and Spain/France. In the eastern basin, detections were sparse and concentrated along the Hellenic Trench. A density surface modelling (DSM) exercise identified location and benthic aspect as being the most instructive covariates for predicting whale abundance. Distance sampling results were used in a power analysis to quantify the survey effort required to identify population trends. In the most extreme scenario modelled (10% per annum decline with decennial surveys), the population could have dropped by 90% before the decline was identified with high statistical power. Increasing the regularity of surveys would allow population trends to be detected more expediently. Mediterranean sperm whales are listed as Endangered on the IUCN’s Red List and the need for urgent conservation measures to reduce injury and mortality remains paramount for this unique sub-population.
Algal symbiont genera but not coral host genotypes correlate to stony coral tissue loss disease susceptibility among Orbicella faveolata colonies in South Florida
Authors: Klein Allison M. , Sturm Alexis B. , Eckert Ryan J. , Walker Brian K. , Neely Karen L. , Voss Joshua D.
Published: January 2024

Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) has spread throughout the entirety of Florida’s Coral Reef (FCR) and across the Caribbean, impacting at least 30 coral species. The threatened hermatypic coral, Orbicella faveolata, demonstrates intraspecific variation in SCTLD affectedness with some colonies experiencing chronic disease lesions, while other nearby O. faveolata colonies appear unaffected with no disease signs over long monitoring periods. This study evaluated potential genotypic underpinnings of variable disease responses to SCTLD by monitoring and sampling 90 O. faveolata colonies from southeast Florida and the lower Florida Keys. High resolution analyses of >11,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) generated from 2bRAD sequencing indicated there were no SNP loci or genetic lineages significantly associated with O. faveolata SCTLD affectedness. Genotypic differences may still contribute to SCTLD susceptibility; however, these differences were not captured using this reduced representation sequencing approach. Algal symbiont community structure characterized from 2bRAD data revealed that the presence of Durusdinium spp. corresponded with SCTLD-affected colonies as compared to unaffected colonies, suggesting that algal symbiont community make-up may play some role in SCTLD resistance. Data generated by this study will be combined with complementary molecular and physiological approaches to further investigate the complex drivers of intraspecific SCTLD susceptibility and resilience.