bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approaches in solving environmental problems of waste disposal from municipal treatment facilities
Authors: Romanova S M , Yaroshevsky A B , Madyakina A M
Published: July 2023

This article discusses and analyzes modern technologies for the waste disposal from municipal treatment facilities according to the ecological point of view. A review of current technologies for their treatment and disposal indicates that they have a valuable resource potential due to the high content of organic substances and mineral components. Thermal and biological methods of utilization are considered. The advantages and disadvantages of recycling technologies are specified. It has been determined that the preferred direction of utilization that meets modern environmental requirements is their usage in the production of organic fertilizers. To increase the efficiency of sewage sludge disposal in the production of useful products, it is necessary to carry out their preliminary processing: mechanical dehydration, stabilization and drying.
Features of the spatial distribution, structure and functional activity of microbial communities in river ecosystems of Eastern Transbaikalia (on the example of the Khilok River)
Authors: Matyugina E B
Published: July 2023

The spatial distribution, structure, and functional activity of microbial communities in one of the river ecosystems of Eastern Transbaikalia, the Khilok River, its tributaries, and floodplain lakes, were studied. It has been established that the microbial communities of the upper reaches of the Khilok River are formed under the influence of the waters of the source of the river of the eutrophic Lake Shakshinskoye and the allochthonous matter supplied with the terrigenous runoff. The total number of bacteria here reaches 2.2 × 106 cells/mL, and bacterial production is 0.46 g / m3 × day-1. In the middle and lower reaches of the river, a stable rheophilic microbial community is formed, the structure and functioning of which depend on the autochthonous and allochthonous substance of the ecosystem, the specifics of the hydrological regime of the river, its tributaries and floodplain lakes. The total number of bacteria here rises to 5.1 × 106 cells/mL, and bacterial production to 0.82-1.87 g / m3 × day-1. In shallow floodplain lakes and in sections of rivers where an additional pool of organic matter enters, the maximum functional indicators of the microbial community of the river ecosystem were recorded. The rate of reproduction of bacteria here reaches 11-42 hours, and bacterial production is 8.32 g/m3 × day-1.
Chinese bush warbler Locustella tacsanowskia (Swinhoe, 1871) in the Khentei-Chikoi Highlands
Authors: Malkov E E
Published: July 2023

The article describes the expansion within the Khentei-Chikoy Highlands (Eastern Siberia and North-Eastern Mongolia) of the range of a rare bird species, the Chinese bush warbler (Locustella tacsanowskia (Swinhoe, 1871)). Based on the results of long-term observations, the characteristics of the habitats of this species are given. It is shown that the Siberian pied beetle has a fairly wide distribution in this territory within both the forest-steppe and forest zones and is a relatively flexible species in the choice of nesting habitats. It is concluded that a necessary condition for the habitat of the Siberian pied beetle is the presence of trees and shrubs with dense tall grasses, and this indicates the stability of the ecological situation within the Khentei-Chikoi Highlands.
Intraspecific variation of scent and its impact on pollinators’ preferences
Authors: Vega-Polanco Mayumi , Solís-Montero Lislie , Rojas Julio C , Cruz-López Leopoldo , Alavez-Rosas David , Vallejo-Marín Mario
Published: July 2023

Floral scents shape plant–pollinator interactions. Although populations of the same species can vary in their floral scent, little is known about how this variation affects pollinator visitation. In this study, we compare the scents emitted by buzz-pollinated Solanum rostratum (Solanaceae) in two areas of its distribution (Mexico and USA) and investigate how these differences in scent affect pollinator preferences and attraction. We determined the variation of floral volatile compounds using hexane extraction followed by gas chromatography coupled with spectrometry. We also performed a field cage multiple-choice bioassay and a Y-tube behavioural bioassay using Bombus impatiens. We recorded 13 volatile compounds in floral extracts for plants from both ranges that varied qualitative and semi-quantitatively among populations. We found that in the field cage experiment, bumble bees visited plants from the US populations more frequently than plants from Mexican populations. However, bees showed no difference in preference between extracts from Mexican or US flowers. We conclude that although bees show differential visitation to whole plants of different regions, variation in floral extract alone does not translate into differences in preference by B. impatiens. The potential effects of variation in floral scent on the other native bee pollinators remain to be assessed.
Drug Legalization, Democracy and Public Health: Canadian Stakeholders’ Opinions and Values with Respect to the Legalization of Cannabis
Authors: Rochette Marianne , Valiquette Matthew , Barned Claudia , Racine Eric
Published: July 2023

The legalization of cannabis in Canada instantiates principles of harm-reduction and safe supply. However, in-depth understanding of values at stake and attitudes toward legalization were not part of extensive democratic deliberation. Through a qualitative exploratory study, we undertook 48 semi-structured interviews with three Canadian stakeholder groups to explore opinions and values with respect to the legalization of cannabis: (1) members of the general public, (2) people with lived experience of addiction and (3) clinicians with experience treating patients with addiction. Across all groups, participants tended to be in favor of legalization, but particular opinions rested on their viewpoint as stakeholders. Clinicians considered the way legalization would affect an individual’s health and its potential for increasing rates of addiction on a larger scale. People with lived experience of addiction cited personal autonomy more than other groups and stressed the need to have access to quality information to make truly informed decisions. Alternatively, members of the public considered legalization positive or negative in light of whether one’s addiction affected others. We elaborate on and discuss how scientific evidence about drug use impact values relates and how can different arguments play in democratic debates about legalization.
Can the police cool down quality-of-life hotspots? A double-blind national randomized control trial of policing low-harm hotspots
Authors: Ariel Barak , Sutherland Alex , Weisburd David , Ilan Yonatan , Bland Matt
Published: July 2023

Substantial evidence suggests that focussing police resources on hotspots of crime has a discernable crime-reduction effect. However, little is known about the efficacy of proactively policing areas with higher concentrations of more common low-harm problems in society. This study evaluates the first national double-blind randomized controlled trial in which clearly identifiable hotspots (n = 488) of low-harm ‘quality-of-life’ incidents nested in 31 participating police stations were randomized to be either actively policed by any available police officer or by ‘business-as-usual’ reactive policing over a 12-month period. A series of count-based regression models show a moderate and statistically significant reduction in the number of quality-of-life incidents in treatment versus control hotspots, with more than 2,000 quality-of-life incidents prevented, without evidence of spatial displacement to street segments nearby. However, we find no diffusion of benefits in terms of other crime types within the same hotspots, which may suggest that either low- and high-harm crime hotspots are not spatially aligned with each other, that focussing police officers on one type of crime does not produce a suppression effect on other types of crime, or both. We discuss the implications of these results for crime policy and future research.
Computed Tomography Perfusion Combined With Preoperative Embolization for Reducing Intraoperative Blood Loss in Separation Surgery for Thoracolumbar Metastases
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhou Yi , Qian Sheng , Li Xilei , Lin Hong , Dong Jian , Zhou Xiaogang
Published: July 2023

Study Design.

A prospective consecutive case study.

Objective.

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of computed tomography perfusion (CTP) in evaluating the vascularity of thoracolumbar metastases and to determine the impact of combining CTP with preoperative embolization on reducing intraoperative blood loss during separation surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

Surgery for thoracolumbar metastases is a complex procedure with the potential for substantial blood loss. Therefore, assessing tumor vascularity before surgery and taking measures to minimize intraoperative blood loss is essential.

Methods.

A total of 62 patients with thoracolumbar metastases were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent separation surgery using the posterior approach. Before surgery, the vascularity of the metastases was evaluated using CTP. On the basis of the CTP results, patients were categorized into hypervascular and hypovascular groups. Preoperative angiography and embolization were performed for the hypervascular group. Clinical data were abstracted, including intraoperative blood loss, perioperative complications, visual analog scale score, neurological status, and the accuracy of vascularity evaluation by CTP confirmed by angiography. χ2 testing was used to compare categorical variables, whereas independent sample t tests were used to compare continuous variables, with paired t tests used to assess differences from preoperative to postoperative time points.

Results.

The mean intraoperative blood loss was 485±167 and 455±127.6 mL in the two groups, respectively. The accuracy of vascularity evaluation by CTP was 100%. In the hypervascular group, 80.6% of the patients experienced at least one level of improvement in neurological status, while the hypovascular group had 81.5% of patients with similar improvement. None of the patients experienced neurological deterioration. There was a significant reduction in visual analog scale scores in both groups after the operation.

Conclusions.

The vascularity of thoracolumbar metastases could be accurately evaluated using noninvasive CTP. When combined with preoperative embolization, this approach effectively and safely reduced intraoperative blood loss in the setting of separation surgery.
Replication stress inducing ELF3 upregulation promotes BRCA1-deficient breast tumorigenesis in luminal progenitors
Authors: Zhou Jiadong , Zhou Xiao Albert , Hu Li , Ma Yujie , Zhan Jun , Xu Zhanzhan , Zhou Mei , Shen Qinjian , Liu Zhaofei , Ma Shaohua , Xie Yuntao , Wang Jiadong
Published: July 2023

BRCA1 is a critical tumor suppressor, mutations in which greatly increase risks for many tumors in carriers, most notably breast cancer. Luminal progenitor cells (LPs) are the currently recognized cells origin of BRCA1-deficient breast cancers. However, the reason why LPs are prone to transform with BRCA1 deficiency has not been elucidated. Here, using single-cell sequencing of human BRCA1 mutant breast cancers and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of BRCA1-deficient normal mammary cells, we reveal that replication stress is a feature of LPs and a driving factor during BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, replication stress and BRCA1 deficiency lead to significant upregulation of ELF3 expression. ELF3 can help suppress excessive genomic instability and promote LP transformation with BRCA1 deficiency. Moreover, ELF3 emerged as a core transcription factor regulating LP genes, leading to LP expansion. Our findings suggest that replication stress is a driving factor during BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis in luminal progenitor cells and elucidates the key role of ELF3 during this process.
Age‐associated reduction of nuclear shape dynamics in excitatory neurons of the visual cortex
Authors: Frey Tanita , Murakami Tomonari , Maki Koichiro , Kawaue Takumi , Tani Naoki , Sugai Ayaka , Nakazawa Naotaka , Ishiguro Kei‐ichiro , Adachi Taiji , Kengaku Mineko , Ohki Kenichi , Gotoh Yukiko , Kishi Yusuke
Published: July 2023

Neurons decline in their functionality over time, and age‐related neuronal alterations are associated with phenotypes of neurodegenerative diseases. In nonneural tissues, an infolded nuclear shape has been proposed as a hallmark of aged cells and neurons with infolded nuclei have also been reported to be associated with neuronal activity. Here, we performed time‐lapse imaging in the visual cortex of Nex‐Cre;SUN1‐GFP mice. Nuclear infolding was observed within 10 min of stimulation in young nuclei, while the aged nuclei were already infolded pre‐stimulation and showed reduced dynamics of the morphology. In young nuclei, the depletion of the stimuli restored the nucleus to a spherical shape and reduced the dynamic behavior, suggesting that nuclear infolding is a reversible process. We also found the aged nucleus to be stiffer than the young one, further relating to the age‐associated loss of nuclear shape dynamics. We reveal temporal changes in the nuclear shape upon external stimulation and observe that these morphological dynamics decrease with age.
What does America think about the Senkaku Islands? An analysis of US think tank policy and strategy positions
Authors: Ando Mio
Published: July 2023

This study conducts the first systematic review of major United States (US) think tank policy and strategy positions regarding defense of the Senkaku Islands. An analytical framework for content analysis is created and then applied to 76 documents spanning the 2010–2020 period. The policy orientations of 10 leading think tanks are identified, as is the strategic rationale behind their arguments. Because think tanks in the US exert tremendous influence on policymaking, the thick description conducted in this study can shed a great deal of light not only on the past but also the future scope of potential US policy options in the East China Sea.
Intracellular environment can change protein conformational dynamics in cells through weak interactions
Authors: Wang Mengting , Song Xiangfei , Chen Jingfei , Chen Xiaoxu , Zhang Xueying , Yang Ying , Liu Zhijun , Yao Lishan
Published: July 2023

Conformational dynamics is important for protein functions, many of which are performed in cells. How the intracellular environment may affect protein conformational dynamics is largely unknown. Here, loop conformational dynamics is studied for a model protein in
Escherichia coli
cells by using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The weak interactions between the protein and surrounding macromolecules in cells hinder the protein rotational diffusion, which extends the dynamic detection timescale up to microseconds by the NMR spin relaxation method. The loop picosecond to microsecond dynamics is confirmed by nanoparticle-assisted spin relaxation and residual dipolar coupling methods. The loop interactions with the intracellular environment are perturbed through point mutation of the loop sequence. For the sequence of the protein that interacts stronger with surrounding macromolecules, the loop becomes more rigid in cells. In contrast, the mutational effect on the loop dynamics in vitro is small. This study provides direct evidence that the intracellular environment can modify protein loop conformational dynamics through weak interactions.
Physical characteristics and maximum allowable mass of hybrid star in the context of f(Q) gravity
Authors: Bhar Piyali , Pradhan Sneha , Malik Adnan , Sahoo P. K.
Published: July 2023

In this study, we explore several new characteristics of a static anisotropic hybrid star with strange quark matter (SQM) and ordinary baryonic matter (OBM) distribution. Here, we use the MIT bag model equation of state to connect the density and pressure of SQM inside stars, whereas the linear equation of state $$p_r =\alpha \rho -\beta $$

p
r

=
α
ρ
-
β

connects the radial pressure and matter density caused by baryonic matter. The stellar model was developed under a background of f(Q) gravity using the quadratic form of f(Q). We utilized the Tolman–Kuchowicz ansatz (Tolman in Phys. Rev. 55:364–373, 1939; Kuchowicz in Acta Phys Pol 33: 541, 1968) to find the solutions to the field equations under modified gravity. We have matched the interior solution to the external Schwarzschild spacetime in order to acquire the numerical values of the model parameters. We have selected the star Her X-1 to develop various profiles of the model parameters. Several significant physical characteristics have been examined analytically and graphically, including matter densities, tangential and radial pressures, energy conditions, anisotropy factor, redshirt, compactness, etc. The main finding is that there is no core singularity present in the formations of the star under investigation. The nature of mass and the bag constant $$B_g$$

B
g

have been studied in details through equi-mass and equi-$$B_g$$

B
g

contour. The maximum allowable mass and the corresponding radius have been obtained via $$M-R$$

M
-
R

plots.
A Certificateless Anonymous Authentication Scheme for VANETs Based on Ring Signature
Authors: Bao Jiabin , Luo Min , Chen Yitao , Peng Cong , Bao Zijian
Published: July 2023

There is a potential risk of privacy issues due to the disclosure of sensitive information about vehicles in Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), including their real identities and driving trajectories. Anonymous authentication is an effective method to solve the above problems. Ring signature, a cryptographic primitive, offers the ability to create anonymous authentication schemes wherein the verifier can verify the signer’s legitimacy without having knowledge of their actual identity. Researchers have proposed several schemes that aim to protect privacy and maintain anonymity using ring signatures. However, a major drawback of most of these schemes is the linear correlation between the length of the signature and the number of ring members. Our proposed solution involves the construction of a certificateless anonymous authentication scheme that utilizes ring signature with a significantly reduced signature size, which follows a logarithmic relationship with the number of ring members. Through our analysis and comparison, it can be concluded that the privacy information of vehicles is well protected in our scheme, and the communication cost is significantly reduced compared with the existing protocols.
Transcription factor c-fos induces the development of premature ovarian insufficiency by regulating MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 network
Authors: Qiu Ting , Zhou Jie , Ji Bing , Yuan Liuyang , Weng Tingsong , Liu Huishu
Published: July 2023

Background

The current study attempted to investigate the role of transcription factor c-fos in the development of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) as well as the underlying mechanism involving the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 ceRNA network.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was performed to extract POI-related microarray dataset for identifying the target genes. Interaction among c-fos, MALAT1, miR-22-3p, and STAT1 was analyzed. An in vivo POI mouse model was prepared followed by injection of sh-c-fos and sh-STAT1 lentiviruses. Besides, an in vitro POI cell model was constructed to study the regulatory roles of c-fos, MALAT1, miR-22-3p, and STAT1.

Results

c-fos, MALAT1, and STAT1 were highly expressed in ovarian tissues from POI mice and CTX-induced KGN cells, while miR-22-3p was poorly expressed. c-fos targeted MALAT1 and promoted MALAT1 transcription. MALAT1 competitively bound to miR-22-3p and miR-22-3p could suppress STAT1 expression. Mechanically, c-fos aggravated ovarian function impairment in POI mice and inhibited KGN cell proliferation through regulation of the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 regulatory network.

Conclusion

Our findings highlighted inducing role of the transcription factor c-fos in POI through modulation of the MALAT1/miR-22-3p/STAT1 ceRNA network.
Temporo-Parietal Extraventricular Approach for Deep Brain Stimulation Targeting the Anterior Nucleus of the Thalamus: Institutional Experience
Authors: Parisi Veronica , Gregg Nicholas M. , Lundstrom Brian N. , Alcala-Zermeno Juan Luis , Worrell Gregory , Kerezoudis Panagiotis , Grewal Sanjeet S. , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , Middlebrooks Erik H. , Van Gompel Jamie J.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT) is a common target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). However, the surgical approach to the ANT remains challenging because of its unique anatomy. This study aims to summarize our experience with the posterior temporo-parietal extraventricular (TPEV) approach targeting the ANT for DBS in DRE.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with DRE who underwent ANT-DBS using the TPEV approach between January 2011 and February 2021. Subjects with at least 6-month follow-up were eligible. The final lead position and number of active contacts targeting the anteroventral nucleus (AV) of the ANT were assessed using Lead-DBS. Mean seizure frequency reduction percentage and responder rate (≥50% decrease in seizure frequency) were determined.

RESULTS:

Thirty-one patients (mean age: 32.9 years; 52% female patients) were included. The mean follow-up period was 27.6 months ± 13.9 (29, 16-36). The mean seizure frequency reduction percentage was 65% ± 26 (75, 50-82). Twenty-six of 31 participants (83%) were responders, P < .001. Two subjects (6%) were seizure-free for at least 6 months at the last evaluation. Antiepileptic drugs dose and/or number decreased in 17/31 subjects (55%). The success rate for placing at least 1 contact at AV was 87% (27/31 patients) bilaterally. The number of active contacts at the AV was significantly greater in the responder group, 3.1 ± 1.3 (3, 2-4) vs 1.8 ± 1.1 (2, 1-2.5); P = .041 with a positive correlation between the number of active contacts and seizure reduction percentage; r = 0.445, R2 = 0.198, P = .012.

CONCLUSION:

The TPEV trajectory is a safe and effective approach to target the ANT for DBS. Future studies are needed to compare the clinical outcomes and target accuracy with the standard approaches.
Catalytic Carbon Dioxide Fixation Reactions Based on Transition Metal Complexes and Their Systems
Authors: Iwasawa Nobuharu
Published: July 2023

In this Account, transition metal-catalyzed carboxylation reactions developed in our laboratory are summarized according to the type of reaction. Design of new transition metal catalysts or catalyst systems is the essential part of the study and emphasis is placed on mechanistic aspects of the newly developed reactions, which have attracted our interest in this research.
FUNCTIONALITY OF INDIVIDUALS WITH LOW BACK PAIN: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY WITH ICF CORE SET
Authors: Brighenti Renata Carolina Hort , Gallon Bruna Camilla , Rocha Júnior Odonis , Fréz Andersom Ricardo , Daniel Christiane Riedi , Ruaro João Afonso , Baroni Marina Pegoraro
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT Objective: Characterize the functionality and disability of individuals complaining of low back pain at a physiotherapy service. Method: The study included individuals who complained of low back pain, treated at a physical therapy school clinic, over the age of 18. An online questionnaire was applied, with sociodemographic questions and questions corresponding to the codes of the brief “International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health” (ICF) for low back pain. Results: The total sample was 47 individuals, with an average of 65.31 ± 3.8 years, the majority were women (n = 40; 85.1%). The categories: pain functions (b280) and functions related to joint mobility (b710) had a higher prevalence of reports of severe to complete disabilities (89.5% and 55.3%, respectively). The other categories, in general, had a higher prevalence of mild to moderate dysfunction, with a greater report of dysfunction for the categories energy and impulse functions (b130), sleep functions (b134), emotional functions (b152), (76.6%, 66%, 76.6% respectively). Conclusion: The ICF core set for low back pain can be used electronically and allows you to evaluate and observe the various factors that are related to pain, enabling reflection and directing multidisciplinary interventions for the treatment of low back pain. Level of evidence III; Study of nonconsecutive patients; without consistently applied reference “gold” standard.
PYOGENIC SPONDYLODISCITIS: RISK FACTORS FOR THERAPEUTIC FAILURE AND RECURRENCE
Authors: Danda Guilherme José da Nóbrega , Castro Cleudson Nery de
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluate the prognostic factors associated with therapeutic failure and recurrence in pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PS). Methods: A historical cohort study was conducted in a reference Brazilian hospital for locomotor system and neurodevelopmental diseases. All patients with PS treated between January 1999 and December 2018 and followed for at least one year were included. PS was defined based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological criteria. Microbiological data and clinical outcomes at the end of follow-up were also collected and analyzed. Results: Fifty patients (mean age 50.94 ± 15.84 years, men 76.00%) were included. After twelve months of follow-up, therapeutic failure was observed in 24.00% (n = 12) and recurrence in 18.00% (n = 09) patients. Among those who were cured, residual symptoms were found in 50.00% (19/38). No deaths were observed. After multivariate analysis, therapeutic failure was associated with the prescription of antibiotic therapy before culture results (p = 0.0153), spinal cord compression (p = 0.0053), and sensory deficits (p = 0.0341). Furthermore, recurrence was associated with previous nonspinal surgeries (p = 0.0350) and spinal cord compression (p = 0.0447). Conclusion: PS causes significant morbidity. The prognosis depends mainly on the clinical presentation at admission, especially when associated with spinal cord compression, which reinforces the importance of early diagnosis. Level of Evidence II; Prognostic Studies.
Artificial intelligence—friend or foe in fake news campaigns
Authors: Węcel Krzysztof , Sawiński Marcin , Stróżyna Milena , Lewoniewski Włodzimierz , Księżniak Ewelina , Stolarski Piotr , Abramowicz Witold
Published: July 2023

In this paper the impact of large language models (LLM) on the fake news phenomenon is analysed. On the one hand decent text‐generation capabilities can be misused for mass fake news production. On the other, LLMs trained on huge volumes of text have already accumulated information on many facts thus one may assume they could be used for fact‐checking. Experiments were designed and conducted to verify how much LLM responses are aligned with actual fact‐checking verdicts. The research methodology consists of an experimental dataset preparation and a protocol for interacting with ChatGPT, currently the most sophisticated LLM. A research corpus was explicitly composed for the purpose of this work consisting of several thousand claims randomly selected from claim reviews published by fact‐checkers. Findings include: it is difficult to align the responses of ChatGPT with explanations provided by fact‐checkers; prompts have significant impact on the bias of responses. ChatGPT at the current state can be used as a support in fact‐checking but cannot verify claims directly.
Current status and emerging perspectives of coastal blue carbon ecosystems
Authors: Alongi Daniel M.
Published: July 2023

Blue carbon ecosystems require conservation and restoration to maximize organic carbon (CORG) sequestration to ameliorate greenhouse gas emissions. Salt marshes, mangrove forests and seagrass meadows are all autotrophic and are considered blue carbon ecosystems. Macroalgae and tidal flats are currently not considered blue carbon habitats. Blue carbon ecosystems contribute globally to climate change mitigation and at local and national scales, especially in the provision of other ecosystem goods and services. Financial investment is constrained by large uncertainties in CORG dynamics and best practices in restoration, rehabilitation and conservation. Several key emerging perspectives include (1) the fact that groundwater discharge of dissolved carbon is a major pathway of blue carbon loss; (2) allochthonous CORG inputs are required to achieve ecosystem carbon mass balance; (3) blue carbon dynamics are enhanced by habitat connectivity and biotic activities; (4) CH4 and N2O emissions reduce blue carbon potential; (5) habitat destruction causes blue carbon stock losses, but variable gas emissions; (6) sediment blue carbon stocks are increasing at the poles; and (7) land-use and land-cover changes (LULCC) drive changes in blue carbon stocks and emissions. Further research is needed to clarify the applicability of these emerging perspectives.
Explaining the Opinions of Medical Students Regarding Professional Ethics Conflicts Using reflective thinking
Authors: Taramsari Morteza Rahbar , Taheri-Ezbarami Sajedeh , Siboni Fatemeh Hosseinzadeh , Ezbarami Zahra Taheri-
Published: July 2023

Background: Graduates of medical fields in the work environment in different care positions will face complex ethical decisions, in which lack of proper preparation reduces their efficiency. Therefore, this study was designed with the aim of explaining the opinions of medical students regarding the conflicts of professional ethics to understand the reasoning and ethical decision-making of medical students.
Methods: This study was of a quantitative content analysis type with a qualitative approach. The sampling method was purposeful and the participants consisted of 4th and 5th-year medical students, during their medical ethics course. Narrative rethinking was used to obtain students' opinions, and their manuscripts, regarding conflicts of professional ethics, were analyzed. In order to analyze written narratives, Summative content analysis (quantitative) and MAXQDA10 software were used.
Results: In the current research, the manuscripts of 60 medical students including 35 female students and 25 male students were analyzed. The participants were taking the medical ethics course for the first time, without any previous training history in this regard. The results obtained from students' opinions regarding medical ethics conflicts included the following in order of frequency: the lack of proper communication between physician and patient, medical malpractice, autonomy and obtaining informed consent, professional behavior, regarding not truth-telling, not providing information, confidentiality, the determination of decision-making capacity, error in medical education, ethical considerations of the beginning and end of life, and conflict about medical error.
Conclusion: The nature of the medical field and the provision of medical services to clients causes medical students to face ethical challenging situations. Nevertheless, the provision of appropriate training by medical ethics instructors leads to the acquisition of sufficient knowledge and skills in students so that they can act ethically in such worrying situations. Recognizing moral conflicts helps students' belief in the re-formation of the hidden curriculum, in the educational environment of the universities.
The efficacy of intracisternal irrigation of papaverine on cerebral blood flow in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Shanmugaiah Anand , Kumar R Raj , Babu VT Suresh
Published: July 2023

Background: Cerebral vasospasm remains the most common cause of death in patients after subarachnoid hemorrhage despite various treatments. This study was conducted to find the efficacy of intracisternal washing with papaverine on cerebral blood flow.
Materials and Methods: This study was performed on 40 patients and totally 120 arteries in 2022. Cerebral blood flow velocity changes before and after washing with papaverine were measured and analyzed.
Results: Twenty (20) patients with anterior communicating artery (ACOM) aneurysm and 20 patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm were assessed. Mean blood flow velocity before aneurysm and before washing in ACOM and MCA was 66.2±13.8cm/s and 62.86±7.3cm/s, respectively, which reached 20.45±4.17 cm/s and 32.1±7.7 cm/s, respectively after washing (P value = 0.016 and 0.024).
Mean blood flow after aneurysm and before washing in ACOM and MCA was 93.2±10.9 cm/s and 69.44±12.2 cm/s, respectively, which reached 33.29±4.2cm/s and 40.01±5.28 cm/s, respectively after washing (P value = 0.001 and 0.01).
Conclusion: Intracisternal irrigation with papaverine significantly reduces cerebral blood flow and relieves vasospasm.
Transcriptome analysis identification of A-to-I RNA editing in granulosa cells associated with PCOS
Authors: Kong Fan-Sheng , Lu Zijing , Zhou Yuan , Lu Yinghua , Ren Chun-Yan , Jia Ruofan , Zeng Beilei , Huang Panwang , Wang Jihong , Ma Yaping , Chen Jian-Huan
Published: July 2023

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, multifactor disorder in women of reproductive age worldwide. Although RNA editing may contribute to a variety of diseases, its role in PCOS remains unclear.

Methods

A discovery RNA-Seq dataset was obtained from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus database of granulosa cells from women with PCOS and women without PCOS (controls). A validation RNA-Seq dataset downloaded from the European Nucleotide Archive Databank was used to validate differential editing. Transcriptome-wide investigation was conducted to analyze adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing in PCOS and control samples.

Results

A total of 17,395 high-confidence A-to-I RNA editing sites were identified in 3,644 genes in all GC samples. As for differential RNA editing, there were 545 differential RNA editing (DRE) sites in 259 genes with Nucleoporin 43 (NUP43), Retinoblastoma Binding Protein 4 (RBBP4), and leckstrin homology-like domain family A member 1 (PHLDA) showing the most significant three 3′-untranslated region (3′UTR) editing. Furthermore, we identified 20 DRE sites that demonstrated a significant correlation between editing levels and gene expression levels. Notably, MIR193b-365a Host Gene (MIR193BHG) and Hook Microtubule Tethering Protein 3 (HOOK3) exhibited significant differential expression between PCOS and controls. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these 259 differentially edited genes were mainly related to apoptosis and necroptosis pathways. RNA binding protein (RBP) analysis revealed that RNA Binding Motif Protein 45 (RBM45) was predicted as the most frequent RBP binding with RNA editing sites. Additionally, we observed a correlation between editing levels of differential editing sites and the expression level of the RNA editing enzyme Adenosine Deaminase RNA Specific B1 (ADARB1). Moreover, the existence of 55 common differentially edited genes and nine differential editing sites were confirmed in the validation dataset.

Conclusion

Our current study highlighted the potential role of RNA editing in the pathophysiology of PCOS as an epigenetic process. These findings could provide valuable insights into the development of more targeted and effective treatment options for PCOS.
Effect of vaginal microbiota on pregnancy outcomes of women from Northern China who conceived after IVF
Authors: Tong Yu , Sun Qiang , Shao Xiaoguang , Wang Zhijian
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between vaginal microbiota and pregnancy outcomes of women who achieved pregnancy via in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Northern China, and to determine a biomarker for evaluation of the risk of preterm births in these women.

Methods

In total, 19 women from Northern China women who conceived after IVF and 6 women who conceived naturally were recruited in this study. The vaginal samples of the healthy participants were collected throughout pregnancy, that is, during the first, second, and third trimesters. The V3–V4 region of 16S rRNA was used to analyze the vaginal microbiome, and the bioinformatic analysis was performed using QIIME Alpha and Beta diversity analysis.

Results

Either IVF group or Natural conception group, bacterial community diversities and total species number of vagnal samples from who delivered at term were significantly higher than those who delivered before term. Low abundance of vaginal bacteria indicates an increased risk of preterm delivery. Further, more abundant vaginal bacteria was found in first trimesters instead of the next two trimesters. Vignal samples collected during first trimester showed richer differences and more predictive value for pregnancy outcoes. In addition, the diversity of the vaginal bacterial community decreased as the gestational age increased, in all samples. Alloscardovia was only found in participants who conceived after IVF, and the percentage of Alloscardovia in viginal samples of normal delivery group is much higher than the samples from preterm delivery group.Vobrio specifically colonized in vagina of pregnant woman in AFT group (those who conceived after IVF (A), first trimester (F), and delivered at term (T)) and Sporosarcina was detected only in women with AFT and AST (those who conceived after IVF (A), second trimester (S), and delivered at term (T)). These data indicates that Alloscardovia, Vobrio and Sporosarcina have great potential in predicting pregnancy outcomes who pregnanted by vitro fertilization

Conclusions

Vaginal microbiota were more stable in women who conceived naturally and those who carried pregnancy to term. Oceanobacillus might act as a positive biomarker, whereas Sulfurospirillum and Propionispira may act as negative biomarkers for the risk of preterm birth.
Cysteamine improves growth and the GH/IGF axis in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata): in vivo and in vitro approaches
Authors: Sánchez-Moya Albert , Balbuena-Pecino Sara , Vélez Emilio J. , Perelló-Amorós Miquel , García-Meilán Irene , Fontanillas Ramón , Calduch-Giner Josep Àlvar , Pérez-Sánchez Jaume , Fernández-Borràs Jaume , Blasco Josefina , Gutiérrez Joaquin
Published: July 2023

Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production sector and nowadays provides more food than extractive fishing. Studies focused on the understanding of how teleost growth is regulated are essential to improve fish production. Cysteamine (CSH) is a novel feed additive that can improve growth through the modulation of the GH/IGF axis; however, the underlying mechanisms and the interaction between tissues are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of CSH inclusion in diets at 1.65 g/kg of feed for 9 weeks and 1.65 g/kg or 3.3 g/kg for 9 weeks more, on growth performance and the GH/IGF-1 axis in plasma, liver, stomach, and white muscle in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) fingerlings (1.8 ± 0.03 g) and juveniles (14.46 ± 0.68 g). Additionally, the effects of CSH stimulation in primary cultured muscle cells for 4 days on cell viability and GH/IGF axis relative gene expression were evaluated. Results showed that CSH-1.65 improved growth performance by 16% and 26.7% after 9 and 18 weeks, respectively, while CSH-3.3 improved 32.3% after 18 weeks compared to control diet (0 g/kg). However, no significant differences were found between both experimental doses. CSH reduced the plasma levels of GH after 18 weeks and increased the IGF-1 ones after 9 and 18 weeks. Gene expression analysis revealed a significant upregulation of the ghr-1, different igf-1 splice variants, igf-2 and the downregulation of the igf-1ra and b, depending on the tissue and dose. Myocytes stimulated with 200 µM of CSH showed higher cell viability and mRNA levels of ghr1, igf-1b, igf-2 and igf-1rb compared to control (0 µM) in a similar way to white muscle. Overall, CSH improves growth and modulates the GH/IGF-1 axis in vivo and in vitro toward an anabolic status through different synergic ways, revealing CSH as a feasible candidate to be included in fish feed.
Building better barriers: how nutrition and undernutrition impact pediatric intestinal health
Authors: Andres Sarah F. , Zhang Yang , Kuhn Madeline , Scottoline Brian
Published: July 2023

Chronic undernutrition is a major cause of death for children under five, leaving survivors at risk for adverse long-term consequences. This review focuses on the role of nutrients in normal intestinal development and function, from the intestinal epithelium, to the closely-associated mucosal immune system and intestinal microbiota. We examine what is known about the impacts of undernutrition on intestinal physiology, with focus again on the same systems. We provide a discussion of existing animal models of undernutrition, and review the evidence demonstrating that correcting undernutrition alone does not fully ameliorate effects on intestinal function, the microbiome, or growth. We review efforts to treat undernutrition that incorporate data indicating that improved recovery is possible with interventions focused not only on delivery of sufficient energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients, but also on efforts to correct the abnormal intestinal microbiome that is a consequence of undernutrition. Understanding of the role of the intestinal microbiome in the undernourished state and correction of the phenotype is both complex and a subject that holds great potential to improve recovery. We conclude with critical unanswered questions in the field, including the need for greater mechanistic research, improved models for the impacts of undernourishment, and new interventions that incorporate recent research gains. This review highlights the importance of understanding the mechanistic effects of undernutrition on the intestinal ecosystem to better treat and improve long-term outcomes for survivors.
Low T-cell reactivity to TDP-43 peptides in ALS
Authors: Ramachandran Swetha , Grozdanov Veselin , Leins Bianca , Kandler Katharina , Witzel Simon , Mulaw Medhanie , Ludolph Albert C. , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Danzer Karin M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Dysregulation of the immune system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) includes changes in T-cells composition and infiltration of T cells in the brain and spinal cord. Recent studies have shown that cytotoxic T cells can directly induce motor neuron death in a mouse model of ALS and that T cells from ALS patients are cytotoxic to iPSC-derived motor neurons from ALS patients. Furthermore, a clonal expansion to unknown epitope(s) was recently found in familial ALS and increased peripheral and intrathecal activation of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells in sporadic ALS.

Results

Here, we show an increased activation of peripheral T cells from patients with sporadic ALS by IL-2 treatment, suggesting an increase of antigen-experienced T cells in ALS blood. However, a putative antigen for T-cell activation in ALS has not yet been identified. Therefore, we investigated if peptides derived from TDP-43, a key protein in ALS pathogenesis, can act as epitopes for antigen-mediated activation of human T cells by ELISPOT and flow cytometry. We found that TDP-43 peptides induced only a weak MHCI or MHCII-restricted activation of both naïve and antigen-experienced T cells from healthy controls and ALS patients. Interestingly, we found less activation in T cells from ALS patients to TDP-43 and control stimuli. Furthermore, we found no change in the levels of naturally occurring auto-antibodies against full-length TDP-43 in ALS.

Conclusion

Our data suggests a general increase in antigen-experienced T cells in ALS blood, measured by in-vitro culture with IL-2 for 14 days. Furthermore, it suggests that TDP-43 is a weak autoantigen.
Intratumoral NKp46+ natural killer cells are spatially distanced from T and MHC-I+ cells with prognostic implications in soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Cruz Sylvia M. , Sholevar Cyrus J. , Judge Sean J. , Darrow Morgan A. , Iranpur Khurshid R. , Farley Lauren E. , Lammers Marshall , Razmara Aryana M. , Dunai Cordelia , Gingrich Alicia A. , Persky Julia , Mori Hidetoshi , Thorpe Steven W. , Monjazeb Arta M. , Murphy William J. , Canter Robert J.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare, heterogenous malignancies with an unmet need for novel immunotherapies. Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have been linked with favorable outcomes in STS patients, though the contribution of natural killer (NK) cells and spatial relationships of TILs with MHC-I expressing cells lacks detailed characterization.

Experimental design

Using archived and prospectively collected specimens, we evaluated intratumoral NK cells by immunohistochemistry (IHC), flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence (IF). We assessed spatial localization of NK and T cells by multiplex IF, analyzing the effects of MHC-I expression status on NK and T cell clustering.

Results

Both intratumoral NKp46 and CD56dim expression were associated with significantly improved overall survival (P=0.05), while higher infiltrates of CD56bright NK cells predicted a worse prognosis (P=0.05). The presence of intratumoral NK cells was inversely proportional to CD3+ T cells. Spatial analyses showed NK cells preferentially clustering close to other NK cells with sparse CD3+ T and CD8+ T cells in range (P<0.0001). Additionally, CD3+ T and CD8+ T cells showed significantly greater co-localization with MHC-I+ cells, compared to NK cells (P<0.0001). After neoadjuvant radiotherapy, there was greater CD8 clustering, while after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, there was overall lower TIL clustering.

Conclusion

Intratumoral NK cells are prognostic in STS and localize closer to MHC-I- cells than T cells. Although both NK and T cells are associated with improved survival in STS, their differential distribution in the TME based on MHC-I expression status may serve as a biomarker for improved immunotherapy treatment selection.
Systematic analyses with genomic and metabolomic insights reveal a new species, Ophiocordyceps indica sp. nov. from treeline area of Indian Western Himalayan region
Authors: Sharma Aakriti , Kaur Ekjot , Joshi Robin , Kumari Pooja , Khatri Abhishek , Swarnkar Mohit Kumar , Kumar Dinesh , Acharya Vishal , Nadda Gireesh
Published: July 2023

Ophiocordyceps is a species-rich genus in the order Hypocreales (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) depicting a fascinating relationship between microbes and insects. In the present study, a new species, Ophiocordyceps indica sp. nov., is discovered infecting lepidopteran larvae from tree line locations (2,202–2,653 m AMSL) of the Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, Indian Western Himalayan region, using combinations of morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. A phylogeny for Ophiocordyceps based on a combined multigene (nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, and RPB1) dataset is provided, and its taxonomic status within Ophiocordycipitaceae is briefly discussed. Its genome size (~59 Mb) revealed 94% genetic similarity with O. sinensis; however, it differs from other extant Ophiocordyceps species based on morphological characteristics, molecular phylogenetic relationships, and genetic distance. O. indica is identified as the second homothallic species in the family Ophiocordycipitaceae, after O. sinensis. The presence of targeted marker components, viz. nucleosides (2,303.25 μg/g), amino acids (6.15%), mannitol (10.13%), and biological activity data, suggests it to be a new potential source of nutraceutical importance. Data generated around this economically important species will expand our understanding regarding the diversity of Ophiocordyceps-like taxa from new locations, thus providing new research avenues.