bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE POSTIVE IMPACT OF PERSONAL GOAL SETTING ON ASSESSMENT
Authors: Smithson Marla
Published: June 2022

This action research is a quantitative study of personal goal setting and how it affects the academic performance of third grade students on weekly Math, Reading, and Language Arts assessments in a proactive effort to increase individual performance on standardized tests. The students’ weekly performance was indicative of their expected performance on the standardized test. Each student set a personal goal for each weekly assessment based on their past grades and level of understanding. The students charted their performance, noting if they met the individualized, targeted goals. Their performance average was compared on the weekly assessments three weeks prior and following the personal goal setting. The study found personal goal setting to be a strong motivator for increasing student performance on assessments and self-efficacy.
GETTING GIRLS IN THE GAME: ACTION RESEARCH IN THE GYMNASIUM
Authors: Robinson Daniel B.
Published: June 2022

This article presents an action research project focused on improving physical education (PE) for adolescent female students. One university researcher, three male PE teachers, and 13 of their most disengaged female students participated in the one-year, two-cycle, action research project. The process and results are offered so that future PE teacher educators and PE teachers might recognize action research as a possibility for effecting positive change within PE programs. The results suggest PE teachers and their students can benefit from similar action research projects.
COLLABORATIVE PHILIPPINE-CANADIAN ACTION CYCLES FOR STRATEGIC INTERNATIONAL COASTAL ECOHEALTH
Authors: Watts Paul David , Pajaro Maravic Gosamo
Published: June 2022

Canadian-Philippine linkages on multi-year coastal Action Research and learning cycles are detailed within established participatory development strategies. Philippine sustainable development is further considered as a function of inter-jurisdictional considerations, and reflexive role shifts for academe. An organizational process is outlined to enhance partnerships and communication between the public and Philippine authorities. Public participation evaluation is suggested through a community-based consideration of goal attainment, social process and ecological assessment. Positive change is demonstrated for a related Action Research cycle in one of six marine bioregions. Action Research is further considered as a career strategy for sustainable development and global equity goals.
IS THERE AN ‘F’ IN YOUR PAR? UNDERSTANDING, TEACHING AND DOING ACTION RESEARCH
Authors: Lorenzetti Liza , Walsh Christine Ann
Published: June 2022

Participatory Action Research (PAR) is increasingly recognized within academic research and pedagogy. What are the benefits of including feminism within participatory action research and teaching? In responding to this question, we discuss the similarities and salient differences between PAR and feminist informed PAR (FPAR). There are eight themes or categories to provide a structure for this discussion: (a) theories and methodologies developed from popular movements and dissent; (b) marginalization within academia; (c) theories and methodologies critiqued for exclusivity; (d) focus on researcher reflexivity and subjectivity; (e) education for personal transformation; (f) critical research methodologies; (g) flexible and diverse theoretical and methodological interpretations; and (h) social justice and emancipation. Implications for education and research are highlighted.
SUPPORTING THE LEARNING OF CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS
Authors: A'Bear David
Published: June 2022

This qualitative study explores the challenges that chronically ill students face in their learning as a result of prolonged and intermittent absences from school. It shows how the use of iPod technology as a communicative link minimized the impact of absences and allowed the student to experience true inclusion in their classroom, enabling the student to keep pace with the curriculum. The findings of this study also have practical implications for educational policy and suggestions for changes to the educational policy for chronic health.
Action Research Network of the Americas 2017 Conference and 1st Global Assembly for Knowledge Democracy, June 12-16, Cartagena, Colombia
Authors: And 1st Global Assembly for Knowledge Democracy Action Research Network of the Americas
Published: June 2022

The Action Research Network of the Americas (ARNA), a non-profit association established in 2012 to bring together individuals and groups across the Americas involved with and interested in action research and all forms of participatory research, and the National University of Colombia (Universidad Nacional de Colombia, UNAL) are co-sponsoring a major international six-day two-part event, the ARNA-UNAL 2017 Conference and 1st Global Assembly for Knowledge Democracy, that will take place in June 12-16 in the historic city of Cartagena, on the north coast of Colombia.
DESAIN SISTEM MONITORING CERDAS KUALITAS AIR KERAMBA BUDIDAYA TERIPANG BERBASIS IOT
Authors: Setiowati Sulis , Wardhani Rika Novita , Danaryani Sri , Riandini Riandini
Published: June 2022

Sistem monitoring kualitas air budidaya ikan laut akan dirancang menggunakan sensor cerdas dengan menyesuaikan kondisi lingkungan teripang, yaitu kualitas air pada salinitas 30-37%, dimana air laut umumnya mempunyai salinitas antara 33-37%, di perairan pantai berkisar antara 32-35% dan kondisi perairan dengan kisaran optimum pH 7,5-8,0 serta kondisi jumlah oksigen terlarut (Dissolved Oxygen) berkisar antara 5,0-5,5 mg/L dalam perairan. Salinitas, pH, dan DO merupakan faktor utama sebuah keramba menjadi lebih sensitif terhadap budidaya teripang, apabila tidak terpantau rutin. Maka dikembangkanlah inference engine dengan logika fuzzy untuk memantau DO, pH, dan salinitas serta model algoritma pembelajaran supervise. Hasil simulasi akan dianalisis dengan algoritma pembelajaran berbasis supervisi, menghitung bobot dan bias secara iteratif. Representasi data diakuisisi dan dikembangkan kecerdasan buatan model fuzzy untuk memantau DO, pH, dan salinitas. Kemudian menggunakan software LabVIEW yang mampu memonitor dan mengakuisisi data secara cepat dan akurat serta microcontroller sebagai pengolah data dari sensor DO, pH, dan salinitas. Luaran penelitian ini akan merealisasikan prototipe system monitoring jarak jauh dengan teknologi IoT yang ditujukan untuk memonitor nilai pH 7,77-8,27, DO pada 5,0-5,5 mg/L, dan salinitas pada 27,33-30 ppt secara kontinyu dan akurat
STRATEGY ANALYSIS OF IMPROVING THE SPIRIT OF COUNTRY DEFENSE MEMBERS OF THE SCOUTING MOVEMENT THROUGH SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES
Authors:   Indonesia Defense University, Jakarta, Ali Yusuf , E.H.J. FoEh John ,   Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya, Jakarta, Permatasari Diah Ayu ,   Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya University
Published: June 2022

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim as a global agenda, of course, it is the responsibility of every country. The implementation of sustainable development is important to be carried out because conditions of unsustainable social, economic and environmental development occur. The implementation of SDGs in Indonesia can be done through government agencies and organizations. One of the organizations that can carry out global programs is the Scout Movement. As a form of responsibility to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia in accordance with the scouting promise, in the process of increasing the spirit of defending the scout member countries, this can be done with scouting education based on global programs such as the SDGs. The writing of this article is based on the results of a qualitative study using a descriptive qualitative study design.
Fore-Aft Asymmetry Improves the Stability of Trotting in the Transverse Plane: A Modeling Study
Authors: Adachi Mau , Aoi Shinya , Kamimura Tomoya , Tsuchiya Kazuo , Matsuno Fumitoshi
Published: June 2022

Quadrupedal mammals have fore-aft asymmetry in their body structure, which affects their walking and running dynamics. However, the effects of asymmetry, particularly in the transverse plane, remain largely unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of fore-aft asymmetry on quadrupedal trotting in the transverse plane from a dynamic viewpoint using a simple model, which consists of two rigid bodies connected by a torsional joint with a torsional spring and four spring legs. Specifically, we introduced fore-aft asymmetry into the model by changing the physical parameters between the fore and hind parts of the model based on dogs, which have a short neck, and horses, which have a long neck. We numerically searched the periodic solutions for trotting and investigated the obtained solutions and their stability. We found that three types of periodic solutions with different foot patterns appeared that depended on the asymmetry. Additionally, the asymmetry improved gait stability. Our findings improve our understanding of gait dynamics in quadrupeds with fore-aft asymmetry.
Improving Control of Gene Therapy-Based Neurotrophin Delivery for Inner Ear Applications
Authors: St. Peter Madeleine , Brough Douglas E. , Lawrence Anna , Nelson-Brantley Jennifer , Huang Peixin , Harre Jennifer , Warnecke Athanasia , Staecker Hinrich
Published: June 2022

Background: Survival and integrity of the spiral ganglion is vital for hearing in background noise and for optimal functioning of cochlear implants. Numerous studies have demonstrated that supplementation of supraphysiologic levels of the neurotrophins BDNF and NT-3 by pumps or gene therapy strategies supports spiral ganglion survival. The endogenous physiological levels of growth factors within the inner ear, although difficult to determine, are likely extremely low within the normal inner ear. Thus, novel approaches for the long-term low-level delivery of neurotrophins may be advantageous.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of gene therapy-based low-level neurotrophin supplementation on spiral ganglion survival. Using an adenovirus serotype 28-derived adenovector delivery system, the herpes latency promoter, a weak, long expressing promoter system, has been used to deliver the BDNF or NTF3 genes to the inner ear after neomycin-induced ototoxic injury in mice.

Results: Treatment of the adult mouse inner ear with neomycin resulted in acute and chronic changes in endogenous neurotrophic factor gene expression and led to a degeneration of spiral ganglion cells. Increased survival of spiral ganglion cells after adenoviral delivery of BDNF or NTF3 to the inner ear was observed. Expression of BDNF and NT-3 could be demonstrated in the damaged organ of Corti after gene delivery. Hearing loss due to overexpression of neurotrophins in the normal hearing ear was avoided when using this novel vector–promoter combination.

Conclusion: Combining supporting cell-specific gene delivery via the adenovirus serotype 28 vector with a low-strength long expressing promoter potentially can provide long-term neurotrophin delivery to the damaged inner ear.
Discovering Interdisciplinary Research Based on Neural Networks
Authors: He Tao , Fu Wei , Xu Jianqiao , Zhang Zhihong , Zhou Jiuxing , Yin Ying , Xie Zhenjie
Published: June 2022

Interdisciplinary research promotes the emergence of scientific innovation. Researchers want to find interdisciplinary research in their research field. However, the number of scientific papers published today is increasing, and completing this task by hand is time-consuming and laborious. A neural network is a machine learning model that simulates the connection mode of neurons in the human brain. It is an important application of bionics in the artificial intelligence field. This paper proposes an approach to discovering interdisciplinary research automatically. The method generates an IRD-BERT neural network model for discovering interdisciplinary research based on the pre-trained model BERT. IRD-BERT is used to simulate the domain knowledge of experts, and author keywords can be projected into vector space by this model. According to the keyword distribution in the vector space, keywords with semantic anomalies can be identified. Papers that use these author keywords are likely to be interdisciplinary research. This method is applied to discover interdisciplinary research in the deep learning research field, and its performance is better than that of similar methods.
An Integrative Method For Enhancing the Ecological Realism of Aquatic Artificial Habitat Designs Using 3D Scanning, Printing, Moulding and Casting
Authors: Garg Aneri , Green Stephanie J.
Published: June 2022

Identifying features of biogenic (i.e., living) habitat that attract and retain organisms is a key pursuit in ecological habitat selection research. Here we present an integrative method for creating aquatic artificial habitat modules that allow the user to isolate and flexibly manipulate structural and compositional features of replicated biogenic habitats for a range of habitat selection study designs in aquatic environments: This method combines techniques from engineering (3D scanning and printing), paleontology, and visual art (moulding and casting) into a stream-lined work flow that is likely to perform on par with or better than other techniques widely used to create artificial replicas of biogenic habitats in terms of design accessibility (availability and cost of construction materials and equipment, and training requirements), scalability (durability, ease of deployment, and reproducibility), and the ecology of the artificial habitat module (degree to which structural and compositional features of the habitat elicit appropriate visual, chemosensory, and auditory cues, and impact of the structure on the surrounding environment). This method can be flexibly modified to answer a variety of questions regarding habitat selection cues, for a range of aquatic biogenic habitat types, and can be adapted for theoretical and applied contexts including cue studies and restoration planning.
Novel Paired Cell Lines for the Study of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer Stemness of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Yun-Hsin , Ko Ying-Chieh , Ku Hsiang-Ju , Huang Ching-Chun , Yao Yu-Ching , Liao Yi-Tzu , Chen Ying-Tsong , Huang Shiu-Feng , Huang Li-Rung
Published: June 2022

There are few well-characterized syngeneic murine models for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which limits immunological studies and the development of immunotherapies for HCC. We previously established an oncogene-induced spontaneous HCC mouse model based on transposon-mediated oncogene (AKT and NRASV12) insertion into the genome of hepatocytes to induce tumorigenesis. Two tumor clones with different levels of lipid droplets (LDs) showed similar in vitro growth but distinctive in vivo phenotypes, including divergent proliferative capability and varying induction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). The two clones showed distinct gene expression related to lipid metabolism, glycolysis, and cancer stemness. Endogenous fatty acid (FA) synthesis and exogenous monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) consumption promoted both tumor proliferation and cancer stemness, and upregulated c-Myc in the HCC cell lines. Moreover, the LDhi HCC cell line expressed a higher level of type II IL-4 receptor, which promoted tumor proliferation through binding IL-4 or IL-13. The chromosomal DNA of two tumor clones, NHRI-8-B4 (LDhi) and NHRI-1-E4 (LDlo) showed five identical AKT insertion sites in chromosomes 9, 10, 13, 16 and 18 and two NRAS integration sites in chromosomes 2 and 3. Herein, we describe two novel HCC cell lines with distinct features of lipid metabolism related to cancer stemness and differential interplay with the immune system, and present this syngeneic HCC mouse model as a practical tool for the study of cancer stemness and discovery of new therapies targeting liver cancers.
Maternal Factor Dppa3 Activates 2C-Like Genes and Depresses DNA Methylation in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Chuanyu , Wen Hang , Liu Siying , Fu Enze , Yu Lu , Chen Shang , Han Qingsheng , Li Zongjin , Liu Na
Published: June 2022

Mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) contain a rare cell population of “two-cell embryonic like” cells (2CLCs) that display similar features to those found in the two-cell (2C) embryo and thus represent an in vitro model for studying the progress of zygotic genome activation (ZGA). However, the positive regulator determinants of the 2CLCs’ conversion and ZGA have not been completely elucidated. Here, we identify a new regulator promoting 2CLCs and ZGA transcripts. Through a combination of overexpression (OE), knockdown (KD), together with transcriptional analysis and methylome analysis, we find that Dppa3 regulates the 2CLC-associated transcripts, DNA methylation, and 2CLC population in ESCs. The differentially methylated regions (DMRs) analysis identified 6,920 (98.2%) hypomethylated, whilst only 129 (1.8%) hypermethylated, regions in Dppa3 OE ESCs, suggesting that Dppa3 facilitates 2CLCs reprogramming. The conversion to 2CLCs by overexpression of Dppa3 is also associated with DNA damage response. Dppa3 knockdown manifest impairs transition into the 2C-like state. Global DNA methylome and chromatin state analysis of Dppa3 OE ESCs reveal that Dppa3 facilitates the chromatin configuration to 2CLCs reversion. Our finding for the first time elucidates a novel role of Dppa3 in mediating the 2CLC conversion, and suggests that Dppa3 is a new regulator for ZGA progress.
A Toolbox for the Generation of Chemical Probes for Baculovirus IAP Repeat Containing Proteins
Authors: Schwalm Martin P. , Berger Lena M. , Meuter Maximilian N. , Vasta James D. , Corona Cesear R. , Röhm Sandra , Berger Benedict-Tilman , Farges Frederic , Beinert Sebastian M. , Preuss Franziska , Morasch Viktoria , Rogov Vladimir V. , Mathea Sebastian , Saxena Krishna , Robers Matthew B. , Müller Susanne , Knapp Stefan
Published: June 2022

E3 ligases constitute a large and diverse family of proteins that play a central role in regulating protein homeostasis by recruiting substrate proteins via recruitment domains to the proteasomal degradation machinery. Small molecules can either inhibit, modulate or hijack E3 function. The latter class of small molecules led to the development of selective protein degraders, such as PROTACs (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras), that recruit protein targets to the ubiquitin system leading to a new class of pharmacologically active drugs and to new therapeutic options. Recent efforts have focused on the E3 family of Baculovirus IAP Repeat (BIR) domains that comprise a structurally conserved but diverse 70 amino acid long protein interaction domain. In the human proteome, 16 BIR domains have been identified, among them promising drug targets such as the Inhibitors of Apoptosis (IAP) family, that typically contain three BIR domains (BIR1, BIR2, and BIR3). To date, this target area lacks assay tools that would allow comprehensive evaluation of inhibitor selectivity. As a consequence, the selectivity of current BIR domain targeting inhibitors is unknown. To this end, we developed assays that allow determination of inhibitor selectivity in vitro as well as in cellulo. Using this toolbox, we have characterized available BIR domain inhibitors. The characterized chemical starting points and selectivity data will be the basis for the generation of new chemical probes for IAP proteins with well-characterized mode of action and provide the basis for future drug discovery efforts and the development of PROTACs and molecular glues.
The Methylation Game: Epigenetic and Epitranscriptomic Dynamics of 5-Methylcytosine
Authors: Alagia Adele , Gullerova Monika
Published: June 2022

DNA and RNA methylation dynamics have been linked to a variety of cellular processes such as development, differentiation, and the maintenance of genome integrity. The correct deposition and removal of methylated cytosine and its oxidized analogues is pivotal for cellular homeostasis, rapid responses to exogenous stimuli, and regulated gene expression. Uncoordinated expression of DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylase enzymes has been linked to genome instability and consequently to cancer progression. Furthermore, accumulating evidence indicates that post-transcriptional DNA/RNA modifications are important features in DNA/RNA function, regulating the timely recruitment of modification-specific reader proteins. Understanding the biological processes that lead to tumorigenesis or somatic reprogramming has attracted a lot of attention from the scientific community. This work has revealed extensive crosstalk between epigenetic and epitranscriptomic pathways, adding a new layer of complexity to our understanding of cellular programming and responses to environmental cues. One of the key modifications, m5C, has been identified as a contributor to regulation of the DNA damage response (DDR). However, the various mechanisms of dynamic m5C deposition and removal, and the role m5C plays within the cell, remains to be fully understood.
Improving Small Molecule pKa Prediction Using Transfer Learning With Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Mayr Fritz , Wieder Marcus , Wieder Oliver , Langer Thierry
Published: June 2022

Enumerating protonation states and calculating microstate pKa values of small molecules is an important yet challenging task for lead optimization and molecular modeling. Commercial and non-commercial solutions have notable limitations such as restrictive and expensive licenses, high CPU/GPU hour requirements, or the need for expert knowledge to set up and use. We present a graph neural network model that is trained on 714,906 calculated microstate pKa predictions from molecules obtained from the ChEMBL database. The model is fine-tuned on a set of 5,994 experimental pKa values significantly improving its performance on two challenging test sets. Combining the graph neural network model with Dimorphite-DL, an open-source program for enumerating ionization states, we have developed the open-source Python package pkasolver, which is able to generate and enumerate protonation states and calculate pKa values with high accuracy.
Recent Chemical and Chemoenzymatic Strategies to Complex-Type N-Glycans
Authors: Zhao Xiaoya , Huang Yan , Zhou Siai , Ao Jiaming , Cai Hui , Tanaka Katsunori , Ito Yukishige , Ishiwata Akihiro , Ding Feiqing
Published: June 2022

Glycosylation is one of the major forms of protein post-translational modification. N-glycans attached to proteins by covalent bonds play an indispensable role in intercellular interaction and immune function. In human bodies, most of the cell surface glycoproteins and secreted glycopeptides are modified with complex-type N-glycans. Thus, for analytical or medicinal purposes, efficient and universal methods to provide homogeneous complex-type N-glycans have been an urgent need. Despite the extremely complicated structures, tremendous progress in the synthesis of N-glycans has been achieved. On one hand, chemical strategies are shown to be effective to prepare core oligosaccharides of N-glycans by focusing on stereoselective glycosylations such as β-mannosylation and α-sialylation, as well as the methodology of the N-glycan assembly. On the other hand, chemoenzymatic strategies have also become increasingly powerful in recent years. This review attempts to highlight the very recent advancements in chemical and chemoenzymatic strategies for eukaryotic complex-type N-glycans.
Chemical Conjugation in Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Eras Alexis , Castillo Danna , Suárez Margarita , Vispo Nelson Santiago , Albericio Fernando , Rodriguez Hortensia
Published: June 2022

Cancer is one of the diseases with the highest mortality rate. Treatments to mitigate cancer are usually so intense and invasive that they weaken the patient to cure as dangerous as the own disease. From some time ago until today, to reduce resistance generated by the constant administration of the drug and improve its pharmacokinetics, scientists have been developing drug delivery system (DDS) technology. DDS platforms aim to maximize the drugs’ effectiveness by directing them to reach the affected area by the disease and, therefore, reduce the potential side effects. Erythrocytes, antibodies, and nanoparticles have been used as carriers. Eleven antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) involving covalent linkage has been commercialized as a promising cancer treatment in the last years. This review describes the general features and applications of DDS focused on the covalent conjugation system that binds the antibody carrier to the cytotoxic drug.
Direct and Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Bisphenol A in Complex Environmental Samples Using a Simple and Convenient Nanochannel-Modified Electrode
Authors: Huang Jie , Zhang Tongtong , Dong Guotao , Zhu Shanshan , Yan Fei , Liu Jiyang
Published: June 2022

Rapid, convenient, and sensitive detection of Bisphenol A (BPA) in complex environmental samples without the need for tedious pre-treatment is crucial for assessing potential health risks. Herein, we present an electrochemical sensing platform using a simple nanochannel-modified electrode, which enables the direct and sensitive detection of BPA in complex samples. A vertically ordered mesoporous silica-nanochannel film (VMSF) with high-density nanochannels is rapidly and stably grown on the surface of a electrochemically activated glassy carbon electrode (p-GCE) by using the electrochemically assisted self-assembly (EASA) method. The high antifouling capability of the VMSF/p-GCE sensor is proven by investigating the electrochemical behavior of BPA in the presence of model coexisting interfering molecules including amylum, protein, surfactant, and humic acid. The VMSF/p-GCE sensor can sensitively detect BPA ranged from 50 to 1.0 μM and 1.0–10.0 μM, with low detection limits (15 nM). Owing to the electrocatalytic performance and high potential resolution of p-GCE, the sensor exhibits high selectivity for BPA detection in the presence of common environmental pollutants, including bisphenol S (BPS), catechol (CC), hydroquinone (HQ), and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). In combination with the good antifouling property of the VMSF, direct detection of BPA in environmental water samples and soil leaching solution (SLS) is also realized without separation pretreatment. The developed VMSF/p-GCE sensor demonstrated advantages of simple structure, high sensitivity, good antifouling performance, and great potential in direct electroanalysis of endocrine-disrupting compounds in complex samples.
Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate via Co3O4/Ti Cathode Prepared by Electrodeposition Paired With IrO2-RuO2 Anode
Authors: Wang Chuan , Cao Zhifen , Huang Hongtao , Liu Hong , Wang Sha
Published: June 2022

Nitrate pollution is already a global problem, and the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate is a promising technology for the remediation of wastewater and polluted water bodies. In this work, Co3O4/Ti electrodes were prepared by electrodeposition for the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate. The morphology, chemical, and crystal structures of Co3O4/Ti and its catalytic activity were investigated. Then, the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction performance of Co3O4/Ti as the cathode was evaluated by monitoring the removal efficiencies of nitrate (NO3−-N) and total nitrogen (TN), generation of reduction products, current efficiency (CE), and energy consumption (EC) at different operating conditions. Under the catalysis of Co3O4/Ti, NO3− was reduced to N2 and NH4+, while no NO2− was produced. After the introduction of chloride ions and IrO2-RuO2/Ti as the anode, NH4+ was selectively oxidized to N2. The removal efficiencies of NO3−-N (at 100 mg/L) and TN after 2 h were 91.12% and 60.25%, respectively (pH 7.0; Cl− concentration, 2000 mg/L; current density, 15 mA/cm2). After 4 h of operation, NO3−-N and TN were completely removed. However, considering the EC and CE, a 2-h reaction was the most appropriate. The EC and CE were 0.10 kWh/g NO3−N and 40.3%, respectively, and electrocatalytic performance was maintained after 10 consecutive reduction cycles (2 h each). The cathode Co3O4/Ti, which is prepared by electrodeposition, can effectively remove NO3−-N, with low EC and high CE.
Synthesis of MeOH and DME From CO2 Hydrogenation Over Commercial and Modified Catalysts
Authors: Santiago Rafaelle G. , Coelho Juliana A. , Lucena Sebastião M. P. de , Musse Ana Paula S. , Portilho Marcio de F. , Rodriguez-Castellón Enrique , Azevedo Diana C. S. de , Bastos-Neto Moises
Published: June 2022

Growing concern about climate change has been driving the search for solutions to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies have been proposed and developed as a way of giving CO2 a sustainable and economically viable destination. An interesting approach is the conversion of CO2 into valuable chemicals, such as methanol (MeOH) and dimethyl ether (DME), by means of catalytic hydrogenation on Cu-, Zn-, and Al-based catalysts. In this work, three catalysts were tested for the synthesis of MeOH and DME from CO2 using a single fixed-bed reactor. The first one was a commercial CuO/γ-Al2O3; the second one was CuO-ZnO/γ-Al2O3, obtained via incipient wetness impregnation of the first catalyst with an aqueous solution of zinc acetate; and the third one was a CZA catalyst obtained by the coprecipitation method. The samples were characterized by XRD, XRF, and N2 adsorption isotherms. The hydrogenation of CO2 was performed at 25 bar, 230°C, with a H2:CO2 ratio of 3 and space velocity of 1,200 ml (g cat · h)−1 in order to assess the potential of these catalysts in the conversion of CO2 to methanol and dimethyl ether. The catalyst activity was correlated to the adsorption isotherms of each reactant. The main results show that the highest CO2 conversion and the best yield of methanol are obtained with the CZACP catalyst, very likely due to its higher adsorption capacity of H2. In addition, although the presence of zinc oxide reduces the textural properties of the porous catalyst, CZAWI showed higher CO2 conversion than commercial catalyst CuO/γ-Al2O3.
Recent Advances in the Catalytic Hydroconversion of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural to Valuable Diols
Authors: Huang Zexing , Wang Jianhua , Lei Jing , Zhao Wenguang , Chen Hao , Yang Yongjun , Xu Qiong , Liu Xianxiang
Published: June 2022

Biomass, a globally available resource, is a promising alternative feedstock for fossil fuels, especially considering the current energy crisis and pollution. Biomass-derived diols, such as 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan, 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)-tetrahydrofuran, and 1,6-hexanediol, are a significant class of monomers in the polyester industry. Therefore, the catalytic conversion of biomass to valuable diols has received extensive research attention in the field of biomass conversion and is a crucial factor in determining the development of the polyester industry. 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is an important biomass-derived compound with a C6-furanic framework. The hydroconversion of HMF into diols has the advantages of being simple to operate, inexpensive, environmentally friendly, safe, and reliable. Therefore, in the field of diol synthesis, this method is regarded as a promising approach with significant industrialization potential. This review summarizes recent advances in diol formation, discusses the roles of catalysts in the hydroconversion process, highlights the reaction mechanisms associated with the specificities of each active center, and provides an outlook on the challenges and opportunities associated with the research on biomass-derived diol synthesis.
Epidemiology, Clinico-Pathological Characteristics, and Comorbidities of SARS-CoV-2-Infected Pakistani Patients
Authors: Omer Saadia , Gondal Mehrunnisa Fatima , Usman Muhammad , Sarwar Muhammad Bilal , Roman Muhammad , Khan Alam , Afzal Nadeem , Qaiser Tanveer Ahmed , Yasir Muhammad , Shahzad Faheem , Tahir Romeeza , Ayub Saima , Akram Javed , Faizan Raja Muhammad , Naveed Muhammad Asif , Jahan Shah
Published: June 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is a causative agent for COVID-19 disease, initially reported from Wuhan, China. The infected patients experienced mild to severe symptoms, resulting in several fatalities due to a weak understanding of its pathogenesis, which is the same even to date. This cross-sectional study has been designed on 452 symptomatic mild-to-moderate and severe/critical patients to understand the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients with their comorbidities and response to treatment. The mean age of the studied patients was 58 ± 14.42 years, and the overall male to female ratio was 61.7 to 38.2%, respectively. In total, 27.3% of the patients had a history of exposure, and 11.9% had a travel history, while for 60% of patients, the source of infection was unknown. The most prevalent signs and symptoms in ICU patients were dry cough, myalgia, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal discomfort, and abnormal chest X-ray (p < 0.001), along with a high percentage of hypertension (p = 0.007) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p = 0.029) as leading comorbidities. The complete blood count indicators were significantly disturbed in severe patients, while the coagulation profile and D-dimer values were significantly higher in mild-to-moderate (non-ICU) patients (p < 0.001). The serum creatinine (1.22 μmol L-1; p = 0.016) and lactate dehydrogenase (619 μmol L-1; p < 0.001) indicators were significantly high in non-ICU patients, while raised values of total bilirubin (0.91 μmol L-1; p = 0.054), C-reactive protein (84.68 mg L-1; p = 0.001), and ferritin (996.81 mg L-1; p < 0.001) were found in ICU patients. The drug dexamethasone was the leading prescribed and administrated medicine to COVID-19 patients, followed by remdesivir, meropenem, heparin, and tocilizumab, respectively. A characteristic pattern of ground glass opacities, consolidation, and interlobular septal thickening was prominent in severely infected patients. These findings could be used for future research, control, and prevention of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients.
Comparative Analyses of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Jejunum Microbiota of Pigs in Different Areas
Authors: Li Yongxiang , Yang Yuting , Ma Li , Liu Jianping , An Qingcong , Zhang Chunyong , Yin Gefen , Cao Zhenhui , Pan Hongbin
Published: June 2022

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are emerging environmental contaminants that threaten human and animal health. Intestinal microbiota may be an important ARGs repository, and intensive animal farming is a likely contributor to the environmental burden of ARGs. Using metagenomic sequencing, we investigated the structure, function, and drug resistance of the jejunal microbial community in Landrace (LA, Kunming), Saba (SB, Kunming), Dahe (DH, Qujing), and Diannan small-ear piglets (DS, Xishuangbanna) from different areas in Yunnan Province, China. Remarkable differences in jejunal microbial diversity among the different pig breeds, while the microbial composition of pig breeds in close areas tends to be similar. Functional analysis showed that there were abundant metabolic pathways and carbohydrate enzymes in all samples. In total, 32,487 ARGs were detected in all samples, which showed resistance to 38 categories of drugs. The abundance of ARGs in jejunum was not significantly different between LA and SB from the same area, but significantly different between DS, DH and LA or SB from different areas. Therefore, the abundance of ARGs was little affected by pig breeds and microorganism community structure, but it was closely related to geographical location. In addition, as a probiotic, Lactobacillus amylovorus is also an important ARGs producing bacterium. Our results revealed the antibiotic exposure and intestinal microbial resistance of farms in the study areas, which could provide basic knowledge and potential strategies for rational use of antibiotics and reducing the risk of ARGs transmission in animal husbandry.
Pathophysiology of COVID-19: Critical Role of Hemostasis
Authors: Andrade Sonia Aparecida de , de Souza Daniel Alexandre , Torres Amarylis Lins , de Lima Cristiane Ferreira Graça , Ebram Matteo Celano , Celano Rosa Maria Gaudioso , Schattner Mirta , Chudzinski-Tavassi Ana Marisa
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, had its first cases identified in late 2019 and was considered a clinical pandemic in March 2020. In March 2022, more than 500 million people were infected and 6,2 million died as a result of this disease, increasingly associated with changes in human hemostasis, such as hypercoagulation. Numerous factors contribute to the hypercoagulable state, and endothelial dysfunction is the main one, since the activation of these cells can strongly activate platelets and the coagulation system. In addition, there is a dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin system due to the SARS-CoV-2 takeover of the angiotensin converting enzyme 2, resulting in a strong immune response that could further damage the endothelium. Thrombus formation in the pulmonary microvasculature structure in patients with COVID-19 is an important factor to determine the severity of the clinical picture and the outcome of this disease. This review describes the hemostatic changes that occur in SARS-CoV-2 infection, to further improve our understanding of pathogenic mechanisms and the interaction between endothelium dysfunction, kallikrein-kinins, renin angiotensin, and the Coagulation/fibrinolysis systems as underlying COVID-19 effectors. This knowledge is crucial for the development of new effective therapeutic approaches, attenuating the severity of SARS-CoV-2’s infection and to reduce the deaths.
Iron Deprivation Modulates the Exoproteome in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis
Authors: Souza Aparecido Ferreira de , Pigosso Laurine Lacerda , Silva Lana O’Hara Souza , Galo Italo Dany Cavalcante , Paccez Juliano Domiraci , e Silva Kleber Santiago Freitas , de Oliveira Milton Adriano Pelli , Pereira Maristela , Soares Célia Maria de Almeida
Published: June 2022

Fungi of the Paracoccidioides genus are the etiological agents of the systemic mycosis paracoccidioidomycosis and, when in the host, they find a challenging environment that is scarce in nutrients and micronutrients, such as Fe, which is indispensable for the survival of the pathogen. Previous studies have shown that fungi of this genus, in response to Fe deprivation, are able to synthesize and capture siderophores (Fe3+ chelators), use Fe-containing host proteins as a source of the metal, and use a non-canonical reductive pathway for Fe3+ assimilation. Despite all of these findings, there are still gaps that need to be filled in the pathogen response to metal deprivation. To contribute to the knowledge related to this subject, we obtained the exoproteome of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb18) undergoing Fe deprivation and by nanoUPLC-MSE. One hundred forty-one proteins were identified, and out of these, 64 proteins were predicted to be secreted. We also identified the regulation of several virulence factors. Among the results, we highlight Cyb5 as a secreted molecule of Paracoccidioides in the exoproteome obtained during Fe deprivation. Cyb5 is described as necessary for the Fe deprivation response of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus fumigatus. Experimental data and molecular modeling indicated that Cyb5 can bind to Fe ions in vitro, suggesting that it can be relevant in the arsenal of molecules related to iron homeostasis in P. brasiliensis.
Extracellular Vesicles in Mycobacteria and Tuberculosis
Authors: Mehaffy Carolina , Ryan Joan M. , Kruh-Garcia Nicole A. , Dobos Karen M.
Published: June 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health issue causing millions of infections every year. Of these, about 15% ultimately result in death. Efforts to control TB include development of new and more effective vaccines, novel and more effective drug treatments, and new diagnostics that test for both latent TB Infection and TB disease. All of these areas of research benefit from a good understanding of the physiology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the primary causative agent of TB. Mtb secreted protein antigens have been the focus of vaccine and diagnosis research for the past century. Recently, the discovery of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as an important source of secreted antigens in Mtb has gained attention. Similarly, the discovery that host EVs can carry Mtb products during in vitro and in vivo infection has spiked interest because of its potential use in blood-based diagnostics. Despite advances in understanding the content of Mtb and Mtb-infected host extracellular vesicles, our understanding on the biogenesis and role of Mtb and host extracellular vesicles during Mtb infection is still nascent. Here, we explore the current literature on extracellular vesicles regarding Mtb, discuss the host and Mtb extracellular vesicles as distinct entities, and discuss current gaps in the field.
Oncolytic Viruses: Immunotherapy Drugs for Gastrointestinal Malignant Tumors
Authors: Li Qingbo , Oduro Patrick Kwabena , Guo Rui , Li Ruiqiao , Leng Ling , Kong Xianbin , Wang Qilong , Yang Long
Published: June 2022

Oncolytic virus therapy has advanced rapidly in recent years. Natural or transgenic viruses can target tumor cells and inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in various ways without interfering with normal cell and tissue function. Oncolytic viruses have a high level of specificity and are relatively safe. Malignant tumors in the digestive system continue to have a high incidence and mortality rate. Although existing treatment methods have achieved some curative effects, they still require further improvement due to side effects and a lack of specificity. Many studies have shown that oncolytic viruses can kill various tumor cells, including malignant tumors in the digestive system. This review discusses how oncolytic virus therapy improves malignant tumors in the digestive system from the point-of-view of basic and clinical studies. Also, the oncolytic virus anti-tumor mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic potential of oncolytic viruses are expounded. In all, we argue that oncolytic viruses might eventually provide therapeutic solutions to malignant tumors in the digestive system.
Supporting Student Transduction of Meanings Across Modes in Primary School Astronomy
Authors: Tytler Russell , Prain Vaughan
Published: June 2022

The multimodal nature of knowledge development and learning in science is now increasingly recognized. While researchers have focused on identifying how different representational modes afford meaning-making, the question of how students are guided to link, confirm and expand similar and different meanings across modes, called ‘transduction', has been less explored. This transduction process is fundamental to students realizing, aligning, generating and coordinating meanings across representations to learn concepts and processes in science. In this paper we focus on a learning sequence in primary school astronomy designed around representational work to explore the teacher's key role in supporting student transduction. In the Interdisciplinary Mathematics and Science (IMS) project we developed a pedagogy with stages of orienting, posing representational challenges, evaluating and building consensus, and applying and extending conceptual understanding. We use micro-ethnographic analysis of the teacher's strategic framing and interactions with students and their artifacts to: (1) identify what enables student transduction of meanings as they engage with material and representational work, and (2) the role of the teacher in anticipating and addressing challenges for students in integrating meanings across multiple, multimodal representations of astronomy phenomena.
How Parental Predictors Jointly Affect the Risk of Offspring Congenital Heart Disease: A Nationwide Multicenter Study Based on the China Birth Cohort
Authors: Zhang Man , Sun Yongqing , Zhao Xiaoting , Liu Ruixia , Yang Bo-Yi , Chen Gongbo , Zhang Wangjian , Dong Guang-Hui , Yin Chenghong , Yue Wentao
Published: June 2022

Objective

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is complex in its etiology. Its genetic causes have been investigated, whereas the non-genetic factor related studies are still limited. We aimed to identify dominant parental predictors and develop a predictive model and nomogram for the risk of offspring CHD.

Methods

This was a retrospective study from November 2017 to December 2021 covering 44,578 participants, of which those from 4 hospitals in eastern China were assigned to the development cohort and those from 5 hospitals in central and western China were used as the external validation cohort. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to select the dominant predictors of CHD among demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, environmental pollution, maternal disease history, and the current pregnancy information. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to construct the model and nomogram using the selected predictors. The predictive model and the nomogram were both validated internally and externally. A web-based nomogram was developed to predict patient-specific probability for CHD.

Results

Dominant risk factors for offspring CHD included increased maternal age [odds ratio (OR): 1.14, 95% CI: 1.10–1.19], increased paternal age (1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.09), maternal secondhand smoke exposure (2.89, 95% CI: 2.22–3.76), paternal drinking (1.41, 95% CI: 1.08–1.84), maternal pre-pregnancy diabetes (3.39, 95% CI: 1.95–5.87), maternal fever (3.35, 95% CI: 2.49–4.50), assisted reproductive technology (2.89, 95% CI: 2.13–3.94), and environmental pollution (1.61, 95% CI: 1.18–2.20). A higher household annual income (100,000–400,000 CNY: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.34–0.63; > 400,000 CNY: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.15–0.36), higher maternal education level (13–16 years: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.50–0.93; ≥ 17 years: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.55–1.37), maternal folic acid (0.21, 95% CI: 0.16–0.27), and multivitamin supplementation (0.33, 95% CI: 0.26–0.42) were protective factors. The nomogram showed good discrimination in both internal [area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC): 0.843] and external validations (development cohort AUC: 0.849, external validation cohort AUC: 0.837). The calibration curves showed good agreement between the nomogram-predicted probability and actual presence of CHD.

Conclusion

We revealed dominant parental predictors and presented a web-based nomogram for the risk of offspring CHD, which could be utilized as an effective tool for quantifying the individual risk of CHD and promptly identifying high-risk population.
Case Report: Pericardial Tamponade and Hemothorax After Superior Vena Cava Filter Removal
Authors: Zeng Xueping , Zhou Jin , Zhou Qidi , Huang Zhigang
Published: June 2022

A 67-year-old male patient was admitted to receive surgical treatment because of lumbar spinal stenosis. Ultrasonography showed a thrombus in the middle and lower segment of the left internal jugular vein. Superior vena cava filter implantation was performed and removed on day 7 after its implantation. The patient suddenly had dyspnea, and his blood pressure decreased 9 h after filter removal. Examinations showed pericardial tamponade and hemothorax. In addition, aortic dissection occurred approximately 20 days after superior vena cava filter removal. This case aimed to provide information to clinicians about the complications of the implantation and removal of superior vena cava filter implantation. The safety and possible complications of superior vena cava filter implantation and removal should be evaluated to identify their actual clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness ratio.