bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelompok Dukungan Sebaya berhubungan dengan Kualitas Hidup Orang dengan HIV/AIDS
Authors: Ayuningtyas Sekar , Wijayati Sugih , Jauhar Muhamad
Published: October 2021

The phenomenon of HIV / AIDS has an impact on the national stablity. The factors is risky sexual behavior and drugs. The impact is a community stigma that affects the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Peer group support can improve the quality of life of PLWHA. This study aims to determine the relationship between peer group support and the quality of life of PLWHA. This study used an analytic observation design with a cross sectional approach. The study used simple random sampling. A sample of 62 clients in the Peer Support Group (KDS) Arjuna Plus Semarang. The study used a peer group support questionnaire (validity value 0.335-0.708 and reliability 0.426) and quality of life (validity value 0.325-0.602 and reliability 0.582). Data analysis using Pearson product moment correlation test. The mean ageof PLWHA  is 33.56 years, male (62.9%), high school (40.3%), private employees (75.8%). There was a significant relationship between peer group support and quality of life among PLWHA (p value = 0.045). Peer group support is related to the quality of life of PLWHA. Nurses as a health service providers collaborate with Peer Support Groups in improving the quality of life of PLWHA.
BIRTH AS A SOURCE OF IDEAS FOR THE CREATION OF TEXTILE ARTWORK
Authors: Al-Haqiqi Shofia Ajiba
Published: October 2021

The design is intended to create new work that focus on textile artwork to convey messages related to birth by exploring visual, symbol, and processing colors and techniques. The purpose of this artwork is to convey messages related to anti-drug awareness through textile artwork for an aesthetic element of the interior. The method used in this creation is the Gustami approach. This method goes through 6 stages, namely finding references in order to explore themes and topics, searching for theoretical foundations to determine techniques, materials, problems in creation, sketching, sketch completion, embodiment, and evaluation. The results of this design showed that (1) exploration in creating interior aesthetic artwork with the source of the idea of "birth" can be done by searching for layered data which is then outlined in a sketch taking into account colors and symbols, and (2) the work is realized with embroidery can be used to convey messages to raise anti-drug awareness in young generations.
Impacto por COVID-19 en Ecuador y planteamiento de una propuesta de política pública de prevención
Authors: López Ullauri Verónica Gabriela , Chasipanta Avalos Marco Eduardo , Campoverde Ávila Adriana Elizabeth , Pavón Rosero Luis Eduardo
Published: October 2021

Introducción. La aparición de una nueva enfermedad infecciosa supone siempre una situación compleja, especialmente si lo hace como una epidemia o pandemias de extensión o gravedad significativas, el SarCov-2 luego llamado COVID-19 ha sido un impacto significativo en todas las economías. Objetivo: exponer los costos de la enfermedad en sus diferentes fases de evolución y establecer una política clara de prevención que haga reflexionar las consecuencias emocionales, psicológicas y económicas que generó esta enfermedad en sus etapas iniciales. Metodología. El diseño de investigación fue analítico-descriptivo, catalogado como un estudio de campo, la metodología utilizada fue inductivo deductivo, en la cual se seleccionó y aplicó técnicas de recolección de información, encuestas, que nos permitió desarrollar hipótesis: ¿Una política pública de prevención de COVID-19, permitirá la reducción de los gastos estatales? ¿Es inferior el costo de prevención frente al costo de tratamiento del COVID-19? Además de realizar el análisis técnico y estadístico de los enfermos en sus diferentes periodos de evolución y el impacto económico que éstos generan en cada uno de los estadios. Resultados. Asintomático y sintomático leve: los costos representan 80.29 USD en un total de 14 días. Sintomático moderado: costo por estancia hospitalaria por día 1465,76 USD en hospitales públicos y 1805,82 USD en hospitales privados. Sintomático grave: costo por estancia hospitalaria por día 1722,87 USD en hospitales públicos y 2122,58 USD en hospitales privados. Conclusiones. La limitada capacidad económica de los sistemas de salud supero el abastecimiento de los centros hospitalarios tanto públicos como privados con costos elevados que superaban la capacidad económica de los usuarios; se debe establecer modelos estratégicos preventivos y controles de fiscalización como medida preventiva pública para un adecuado uso de los recursos en salud.
The budgetary impact of alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis in Quito, Ecuador. Payer’s perspective
Authors: Pastor-Quirós Luis J. , Correa-Díaz Edgar P.
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition that causes disabilities and is most common in young adults. It imposes high financial costs affecting the quality of life of patients, families, and society. It is critical to measure the budgetary impact of new technologies to treat this disease.
Objective: The aim of the article is to estimate the budgetary impact of introducing alemtuzumab as an escalation therapy in patients diagnosed with Recurrent Remitting Multiple Sclerosis and treated in Quito, Ecuador.
Materials and methods: A cohort of 85 patients receiving treatment with disease-modifying therapies was used, within a 5-year timeframe, between 2021 and 2025. The baseline scenario, including the percentages of administration of the different drugs, is compared with the alternative scenario, including alemtuzumab. The cost assessment included only direct medical resources. To obtain local resources for management of the disease, a neurologist and clinical expert who treats most of the patients in Quito was consulted.
Results: Considering a cohort of 85 patients with active Recurrent Remitting Multiple Sclerosis, the average global budget impact in 5 years would be USD 10,603,230.00 in the base case and USD 9,995,817.00 in the alemtuzumab scenario.
Conclusion: The inclusion of alemtuzumab as escalation therapy represents budgetary savings over the next 5 years (2021-2025).
ÇEK KANUNU ÇERÇEVESİNDE BANKANIN HESAP AÇTIRMAK İSTEYEN KİŞİYE İLİŞKİN ARAŞTIRMA YÜKÜMLÜLÜĞÜ ÜZERİNE DEĞERLENDİRMELER
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Semih Sırrı
Published: October 2021

5941 sayılı Çek Kanunu’nun öne çıkan amaçlarından birisi, çek kavramına güven duyulmasının sağlanmasıdır. Bu kapsamda, çeke karşılıksızdır işlemi yapılması durumunda uygulanan, çek düzenlenmesi ve çek hesabı açılmasını da içeren, çok basamaklı bir yaptırımlar sistemi uygulamaya konulmuştur. Bankaların müşterilerinin ekonomik ve sosyal durumlarını inceleme ve haklarında ayrıntılı bir tetkik gerçekleştirme yükümlülüğü, bu sistemin diğer sonuçları arasında gösterilebilir. Bununla birlikte, Çek Kanunu madde 2/1’de ve Kanun Gerekçesi’nde yer verilen kavramlar, anılan yükümlülüğe ilişkin belirsiz ve tartışmalı bir bakış açısı sunmaktadır. Bu durumla bağlantılı olarak, yargının bankaların araştırma yükümlülüğüne dair kararlarına, bankaların basiretli bir tacir olarak davranmakla yükümlü olması ve bankaların yargı tarafından bir güven kurumu olarak kabul edilmesi gerekçesiyle, katı bir bakış açısı hâkim olmaktadır. Bu yaklaşım nedeniyle, bazı yargı kararlarında, araştırmaya ilişkin faaliyetlerini çek hesabının açık olduğu süre boyunca sürdürmemeleri nedeniyle bankalar sorumlu tutulmaktadır. Bu kapsamda, çalışmanın amacı, belirtilen araştırma yükümlülüğünün geniş kapsamının ve ilgili yargı kararlarının incelenmesi ve anılan hükümlere yönelik bir değişiklik önerisinin değerlendirilmesidir.
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES IN THE WORLD AND RUSSIAN ECONOMY
Authors: Tagaeva Tatiana O. , Kazantseva Lidiya K.
Published: October 2021

The article describes the concepts of sustainable development and the "green" economy as priority areas in modern science. One of the main conditions for "green" growth is the development of renewable energy. The article presents data from international analytical agencies about the using of renewable energy sources, as well as the results of world ratings of the development of renewable energy markets by country. Statistical data about the technical potential of renewable energy and its installed capacities in Russia are presented. The rapid growth of production and using of renewable energy sources in developed countries and the Russian significant lag in this area are shown. The reasons for this lag arediscussed.
When the Frequencies of Sensitization and Elicitation of Allergic Reaction Do Not Correlate—The Case of Apple Gibberellin-Regulated Protein Tested in an Italian Population
Authors: Tuppo Lisa , Alessandri Claudia , Giangrieco Ivana , Tamburrini Maurizio , Arriaza Ricardo Hernandez , Chruszcz Maksymilian , Mari Adriano , Ciardiello Maria Antonietta
Published: October 2021

Background: The literature reports describing allergic symptoms against apples in the patients sensitized to the gibberellin-regulated proteins (GRPs) suggested the presence of an allergenic GRP in this fruit.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the presence of a GRP protein in apples and investigate its allergenicity.

Methods: The protein was isolated and identified by the classical biochemical methods. The bioinformatics tools were used for similar searches and molecular modeling. The immunological features were investigated using the multiplex FABER test. Clinical data were collected by the allergy specialists.

Results: A GRP was detected in the apple peel and pulp and it was named applemaclein. This protein displays 94% of sequence identity with peamaclein, Pru p 7, representing the prototype of this allergen family. The applemaclein molecular model shows a very irregular surface with grooves/clefts that may potentially accommodate small molecular ligands. In a population of 4,721 patients in Italy, 187 (4.0%) were sensitized to any allergenic GPR. Of those, 115 (61.5%), 61 (32.6%), 30 (16.0%), and 99 (52.9%) had immunoglobulin E (IgE) to apple, peach, pomegranate, and cypress GRP, respectively. However, in a cohort of the patients in Italy, most individuals IgE positive to the apple GRP did not report allergic reactions against this fruit.

Conclusion: Compared with the peach Pru p 7, applemaclein shows some different structural features and higher sensitization frequency, which is often not associated with allergic reactions against apple. Further studies are needed to understand a possible correlation between the applemaclein structural properties, the interaction with still unknown molecules, and immunological behavior.
L-Type Ca2+ Channels of NG2 Glia Determine Proliferation and NMDA Receptor-Dependent Plasticity
Authors: Zhao Na , Huang Wenhui , Cãtãlin Bogdan , Scheller Anja , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: October 2021

NG2 (nerve/glial antigen 2) glia are uniformly distributed in the gray and white matter of the central nervous system (CNS). They are the major proliferating cells in the brain and can differentiate into oligodendrocytes. NG2 glia do not only receive synaptic input from excitatory and inhibitory neurons, but also secrete growth factors and cytokines, modulating CNS homeostasis. They express several receptors and ion channels that play a role in rapidly responding upon synaptic signals and generating fast feedback, potentially regulating their own properties. Ca2+ influx via voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) induces an intracellular Ca2+ rise initiating a series of cellular activities. We confirmed that NG2 glia express L-type VGCCs in the white and gray matter during CNS development, particularly in the early postnatal stage. However, the function of L-type VGCCs in NG2 glia remains elusive. Therefore, we deleted L-type VGCC subtypes Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 genes conditionally in NG2 glia by crossbreeding NG2-CreERT2 knock-in mice to floxed Cav1.2 and flexed Cav1.3 transgenic mice. Our results showed that ablation of Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 strongly inhibited the proliferation of cortical NG2 glia, while differentiation in white and gray matter was not affected. As a consequence, no difference on myelination could be detected in various brain regions. In addition, we observed morphological alterations of the nodes of Ranvier induced by VGCC-deficient NG2 glia, i.e., shortened paired paranodes in the corpus callosum. Furthermore, deletion of Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 largely eliminated N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-dependent long-term depression (LTD) and potentiation in the hippocampus while the synaptic input to NG2 glia from axons remained unaltered. We conclude that L-type VGCCs of NG2 glia are essential for cell proliferation and proper structural organization of nodes of Ranvier, but not for differentiation and myelin compaction. In addition, L-type VGCCs of NG2 glia contribute to the regulation of long-term neuronal plasticity.
Microbiota and Ocular Diseases
Authors: Xue Wei , Li Jing Jing , Zou Yanli , Zou Bin , Wei Lai
Published: October 2021

Recent advances have identified significant associations between the composition and function of the gut microbiota and various disorders in organ systems other than the digestive tract. Utilizing next-generation sequencing and multiomics approaches, the microbial community that possibly impacts ocular disease has been identified. This review provides an overview of the literature on approaches to microbiota analysis and the roles of commensal microbes in ophthalmic diseases, including autoimmune uveitis, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other ocular disorders. In addition, this review discusses the hypothesis of the “gut-eye axis” and evaluates the therapeutic potential of targeting commensal microbiota to alleviate ocular inflammation.
Case Report: Coexistent Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome and Brugada Phenocopy in a Patient With Pneumonia and Myocarditis
Authors: Wang Li , Zhao Yana , Ma Lan
Published: October 2021

Background: In recent years, Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome and Brugada electrocardiogram (ECG) patterns have been reported as coexistent in the same patient. In most cases, the two waveforms appeared separately. Here, we described combinations of different waveforms on one ECG, such as the Brugada pattern with delta waves and the Brugada pattern with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). Importantly, we recorded an alternate conversion of these combined ECG waveforms, which has not previously been reported in the literature. At the same time, we confirmed that the change in the waveform was related to fever by analyzing Holter data.

Case: A 48-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to palpitations and fever. The patient had a history of a cold 3 days ago. Laboratory examinations showed an elevated neutrophil percentage (85%) and troponin I level (0.86 ng/ml). A chest computed tomography (CT) scan showed inflammation in the right lung. The diagnosis of pneumonia and myocarditis was made. ECG indicated WPW syndrome and the Brugada pattern. We recorded the dynamic changes in this combination of delta waves and Brugada waves with a Holter monitor, and we found the changes would happen when the patient's body temperature rose. The doctors thought that the patient's pulmonary infection led to fever, which caused the changes in waveform. After treatment with antibacterial therapy and supportive care, his body temperature returned to normal. The various laboratory indicators also gradually returned to normal. The doctor recommended that the patient undergo further pre-excitation bypass radiofrequency ablation treatment, but the patient refused and was discharged.

Conclusion: Delta waves and Brugada ECG patterns could appear on one ECG at the same time. There were dynamic changes of QRS complex, relating to fever.
Generalized Relaxation Behavior of Rock Under Various Loading Conditions Using a Constant Linear Combination of Stress and Strain
Authors: Zhang Hailong , Tang Yang , Okubo Seisuke , Peng Shoujian , Chen Cancan
Published: October 2021

Time-dependent behavior has been demonstrated to be an essential factor in determining the long-term stability of underground structures. Creep and relaxation experiments are commonly used to investigate time-dependent behavior by subjecting rock to constant stress and strain. However, both stress and strain of in-situ rock masses are likely to change with time, a phenomenon known as generalized relaxation that has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, a newly proposed control method with a constant linear combination of stress and strain as a feedback signal is used in compression and tension tests to investigate generalized relaxation behaviors of rocks. The results showed that the stress and strain of generalized relaxation are dependent on values of α, which represented generalized relaxation direction. The isochronous curves are enclosed within stress–strain curves of different loading conditions. The variation of stress (∆σ) and strain (∆ε) increases with increasing stress level and decreases with increasing confining pressure. Also, ∆σ and ∆ε in region II are smaller than in regions I and III. Furthermore, by performing brittle rock tests, complete generalized relaxation curves are obtained; three stages are observed, which are similar to conventional creep and relaxation behavior. Finally, the time and generalized relaxation failure behavior of Class I and Class II rock are discussed. The study is a valuable resource for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the time-dependent behavior of rocks and improving the stability and safety of underground structures.
Tri-Ponderal Mass Index as a Screening Tool for Identifying Body Fat and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sun Jiahong , Yang Rong , Zhao Min , Bovet Pascal , Xi Bo
Published: October 2021

Because of the limitation of body mass index (BMI) in distinguishing adipose mass from muscle, the tri-ponderal mass index (TMI) has been proposed as a new indicator for better assessing adiposity in children and adolescents. However, it remains unclear whether TMI performs better than BMI or other adiposity indices in predicting obesity status in childhood and obesity-related cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) in childhood or adulthood. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for eligible publications until June 15, 2021. A total of 32 eligible studies were included in this systematic review. We found that TMI had a similar or better ability to predict body fat among children and adolescents than BMI. However, most of the included studies suggested that TMI was similar to BMI in identifying metabolic syndrome although TMI was suggested to be a useful tool when used in combination with other indicators (e.g., BMI and waist circumference). In addition, limited evidence showed that TMI did not perform better than BMI for identifying specific CVRFs, including insulin resistance, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and inflammation in children and adolescents, as well as CVRFs in adults.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, CRD42021260356.
Adding Sodium–Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors to Sulfonylureas and Risk of Hypoglycemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Jiang Meng , Liu Qiaoshu , Jiang Tiejian , Nizigiyimana Paul , Lei Minxiang
Published: October 2021

Background

Hypoglycemia is an important event that could be related to increased mortality in patients with diabetes. The risk of hypoglycemia is not clearly illustrated to increase when Sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are used concomitantly with sulfonylureas. The present study will assess the risk of hypoglycemia associated with the concomitant use of SGLT-2 inhibitors and sulfonylureas compared with placebo and sulfonylureas.

Method

We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Clinicaltrial.gov and identified the randomized trials comparing SGLT-2 inhibitors with placebo for type 2 diabetes treated with sulfonylureas. The risk of bias in each trial was assessed using the Cochrane tool. The risk ratio of hypoglycemia was measured using the Mantel Haenszel method. We also performed subgroup analysis to examine the dosage effects. The number needed to harm (NNH) was measured according to the duration of intervention.

Results

A total of 12 studies, including 3761 participants, were enrolled in our systematic review and meta-analysis. The risk ratio of hypoglycemia was 1.67 (95% CI 1.42 to 1.97). The NNH was 13 (95% CI 9 to 21) for a treatment duration of 24 weeks or less, 11 (8 to 18) for 25 to 48 weeks, and 7 (5 to 10) for more than 48 weeks. Subgroup analysis showed that no difference was found between higher and lower doses of SGLT-2 inhibitors. The risk ratio related to lower dose SGLT-2 inhibitors was 1.56 (95% CI 1.30 to 1.88), and the risk ratio related to higher dose SGLT-2 inhibitors was 1.70 (95% CI 1.42 to 2.04).

Conclusions

The risk of hypoglycemia was significantly increased in subjects treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors compared with placebo. Addition of SGLT-2 inhibitors to sulfonylureas would lead to one more case of hypoglycemia in every 13 patients with a treatment duration less than 24 weeks. This suggests that a decrease in sulfonylureas dose may be an important recommendation when adding SGLT-2 inhibitors to sulfonylureas.
A Conceptual Review of the Potential of Cool Roofs as an Effective Passive Solar Technique: Elaboration of Benefits and Drawbacks
Authors: Ashtari Babak , Yeganeh Mansour , Bemanian Mohammadreza , Vojdani Fakhr Bahereh
Published: October 2021

Cool roofs, as feasible and efficient passive solar technique that reduces building energy requirements for cooling and improves indoor thermal comfort conditions, have received considerable attention in recent years and as a result, a number of concepts, methods, and experiences have been developed during the related research. Although some studies have been conducted on this subject in the form of review articles, taking into consideration the large number of publications, there is still a call for some review papers dealing with the potential of cool roofs and providing a thorough report on their energy performance and a detailed summary of their pros and cons on the basis of the relevant studies. On this account, this study contributes a systematic review of the issued paper in Scopus and Web of Science regarding the cool roof technologies to recognize the advantages and challenges of cool roofs in practice and its future trends. In addition, detailed summary of advantages and drawbacks of this passive solar measure has been developed, as itemized factors corresponded to the codified references. A total of 90 published reports were analyzed, declaring that a cool roof is an efficient approach for generating clean energy on the building scale. This article induces an overall view of the advantages and restrictions of the cool roof throughout the world. Conclusions give a valuable reference for improving the cool roof design for their more widespread use in the building industry.
Thermal Analysis of a Forced Flow Diffusion Absorption Refrigeration System for Fishing-Boat Exhaust Waste Heat Utilization
Authors: Du Shuai
Published: October 2021

Ammonia water absorption refrigeration systems are effective in utilizing fishing-boat exhaust waste heat for cryopreservation. However, the liquid level control and the use of a solution pump characterized by small flowrate and high-pressure head result in poor reliability in the traditional system. Besides, the system must necessarily be designed anti-swaying and anti-corrosion. This paper proposes a forced flow diffusion absorption refrigeration system, in which an inherently leak-free canned motor pump and an ejector are employed to provide the driving forces of the gas and liquid loops. The approximate single pressure operation allows for a simple passive liquid sealing control without throttling valves. The system adopts an integrated cooling strategy which allows the system to operate under swaying conditions, and the external seawater cooled heat exchanger avoids internal corrosion and leakage. The thermal analysis shows the system is valid to be operated under wide operating conditions, and the coupled gas and solution circulation ratios determined the performance of the novel system. There is an optimal ammonia mass fraction difference in the gas loop to obtain the optimal COP. The COP reaches 0.4 when the temperatures at the outlets of the generator, evaporator, absorber, and condenser are 160, −15, 35, and 35°C, respectively. The novel system provides a reliable absorption refrigeration system design for fishing-boat applications.
The Thermal Biology of Takydromus kuehnei Indicates Tropical Lizards From High Elevation Have Not Been Severely Threatened by Climate Change
Authors: Tao Shiang , Cheng Kunming , Li Xinghan , Han Xingzhi , Wang Jichao , Zheng Rongquan , Sun Baojun
Published: October 2021

Climate change poses different threats to animals across latitudes. Tropical species have been proposed to be more vulnerable to climate change. However, the responses of animals from tropical mountains to thermal variation and climate change have been scarcely studied. Here, we investigated the thermal biology traits of a tropical lizard (Takydromus kuehnei) distributed at high elevations (>950 m) and evaluated the vulnerabilities of T. kuehnei by thermal biology traits, thermal safety margin, and thermoregulatory effectiveness. The average active body temperatures of T. kuehnei in the field were 26.28°C and 30.65°C in April and June, respectively. The selected body temperature was 33.23°C, and the optimal temperature for locomotion was 30.60°C. The critical thermal minimum and critical thermal maximum temperatures were 4.79°C and 43.37°C, respectively. Accordingly, the thermal safety margin (1.23°C) and thermoregulatory effectiveness (1.23°C) predicted that T. kuehnei distributed in tropical mountains were not significantly depressed by environmental temperatures. This study implies that high-elevation species in tropical regions may not be severely threatened by ongoing climate change and highlights the importance of thermal biology traits in evaluating the vulnerability of species to climate change.
Oxalate Alters Cellular Bioenergetics, Redox Homeostasis, Antibacterial Response, and Immune Response in Macrophages
Authors: Kumar Parveen , Saini Kanchan , Saini Vikram , Mitchell Tanecia
Published: October 2021

Individuals with calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stones can have secondarily infected calculi which may play a role in the development of recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI). Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the most common causative pathogen of UTIs. Macrophages play a critical role in host immune defense against bacterial infections. Our previous study demonstrated that oxalate, an important component of the most common type of kidney stone, impairs monocyte cellular bioenergetics and redox homeostasis. The objective of this study was to investigate whether oxalate compromises macrophage metabolism, redox status, anti-bacterial response, and immune response. Monocytes (THP-1, a human monocytic cell line) were exposed to sodium oxalate (soluble oxalate; 50 µM) for 48 hours prior to being differentiated into macrophages. Macrophages were subsequently exposed to calcium oxalate crystals (50 µM) for 48 hours followed by UPEC (MOI 1:2 or 1:5) for 2 hours. Peritoneal macrophages and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) from C57BL/6 mice were also exposed to oxalate. THP-1 macrophages treated with oxalate had decreased cellular bioenergetics, mitochondrial complex I and IV activity, and ATP levels compared to control cells. In addition, these cells had a significant increase in mitochondrial and total reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial gene expression, and pro-inflammatory cytokine (i.e. Interleukin-1β, IL-1β and Interleukin-6, IL-6) mRNA levels and secretion. In contrast, oxalate significantly decreased the mRNA levels and secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, Interleukin-10 (IL-10). Further, oxalate increased the bacterial burden of primary macrophages. Our findings demonstrate that oxalate compromises macrophage metabolism, redox homeostasis, and cytokine signaling leading to a reduction in anti-bacterial response and increased infection. These data highlight a novel role of oxalate on macrophage function.
Hide and Seek: The Interplay Between Zika Virus and the Host Immune Response
Authors: Lee Lim Jack , Komarasamy Thamil Vaani , Adnan Nur Amelia Azreen , James William , RMT Balasubramaniam Vinod
Published: October 2021

Zika virus (ZIKV) received worldwide attention over the past decade when outbreaks of the disease were found to be associated with severe neurological syndromes and congenital abnormalities. Unlike most other flaviviruses, ZIKV can spread through sexual and transplacental transmission, adding to the complexity of Zika pathogenesis and clinical outcomes. In addition, the spread of ZIKV in flavivirus-endemic regions, and the high degree of structural and sequence homology between Zika and its close cousin Dengue have raised questions on the interplay between ZIKV and the pre-existing immunity to other flaviviruses and the potential immunopathogenesis. The Zika epidemic peaked in 2016 and has affected over 80 countries worldwide. The re-emergence of large-scale outbreaks in the future is certainly a possibility. To date, there has been no approved antiviral or vaccine against the ZIKV. Therefore, continuing Zika research and developing an effective antiviral and vaccine is essential to prepare the world for a future Zika epidemic. For this purpose, an in-depth understanding of ZIKV interaction with many different pathways in the human host and how it exploits the host immune response is required. For successful infection, the virus has developed elaborate mechanisms to escape the host response, including blocking host interferon response and shutdown of certain host cell translation. This review provides a summary on the key host factors that facilitate ZIKV entry and replication and the mechanisms by which ZIKV antagonizes antiviral innate immune response and involvement of adaptive immune response leading to immunopathology. We also discuss how ZIKV modulates the host immune response during sexual transmission and pregnancy to induce infection, how the cross-reactive immunity from other flaviviruses impacts ZIKV infection, and provide an update on the current status of ZIKV vaccine development.
Polysaccharides From the Roots of Millettia Speciosa Champ Modulate Gut Health and Ameliorate Cyclophosphamide-Induced Intestinal Injury and Immunosuppression
Authors: Chen Xiaogang , Sun Wenjing , Xu Baichang , Wu Enyun , Cui Yao , Hao Kaiyuan , Zhang Geyin , Zhou Congcong , Xu Yanping , Li Jiang , Si Hongbin
Published: October 2021

Cyclophosphamide (CTX), a common anticancer drug, can cause a variety of side effects such as immunosuppression and intestinal mucosal injury. Polysaccharides are the major bioactive components of the roots of Millettia Speciosa Champ and have gained attention for their immunomodulatory activity. This study was designed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of Millettia Speciosa Champ polysaccharide (MSCP) on CTX-induced mice and the possible mechanism. The results showed that MSCP attenuated the CTX-induced decrease in body weight and immune organ indices in mice and promoted the secretion of immune-related cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, TNF-α, and IgG). Meanwhile, MSCP restored intestinal morphology, increased the ratio of villus height/crypt depth (V/C), and improved the number of goblet cells and mucins expression. At the mRNA level, MSCP activated the TLRs/MyD88/NF-κB p65 pathway and enhanced the expression of genes related to intestinal mucosal integrity (Occludin1, Claudin1, and MUC-2). In addition, MSCP as a prebiotic improved microbial community diversity, regulated the relative abundance of dominant microbiota from the phylum level to the genus level, restored CTX-induced gut microbial dysbiosis, and promoted short-chain fatty acid production in mice. Based on the present findings, MSCP may modulate the immune response depending on enhancing intestinal health, suggesting that MSCP holds promise as a promising immunostimulant in functional foods and drugs.
Population, Reproductive and Fishery Dynamics of Spotted Box Crab (Calappa philargius), a New Claw-Only Fishery Species, in the Southern Taiwan Strait, China
Authors: Lin Bai-an , Jiang Yan , Boenish Robert , Xu Qing , Liu Min
Published: October 2021

The spotted box crab Calappa philargius (Calappidae) is an increasingly consumed species in China, mainly sourced from a claw-only fishery. Being a not well-characterized species in the literature, this study is warranted to inform sustainable management approaches. Here we report on the first in-depth overview on biology and fishery dynamics of C. philargius in the southern Taiwan Strait of China. Whole body crabs (N = 1,009) were collected monthly from January to December 2019 from trawlers, operating in the southern Taiwan Strait; sample collection was absent from May to July because of the national fishing moratorium regulation. Sex ratio, growth pattern, size at maturity and fecundity were estimated. The overall male: female ratio was 1: 1.47, significantly differing from the 1: 1 (p < 0.01); monthly sex ratio variations were also significant (p < 0.01), suggesting possible seasonal sexual segregation. We found the carapace widths (CW) of males were significantly larger than those of females (p < 0.01). Based on the occurrence and percentages of berried females, we identified twin spawning events in January–April and August–October with the overall peak occurring in February. Size at 50% female maturity was 11.47 cm CW. Female absolute fecundity was significantly related to CW via a power function relationship (N = 14, p < 0.01). The estimated average claw yield was 36.28 ± 3.07% of the whole body weight (N = 95), irrespective of sex and size (p > 0.5). Capture and trade data of C. philargius using trawl and trap fishing gears were documented to characterize claw-only fishery dynamics for future research and sustainable use.
Enhanced Weathering and Erosion of a Cohesive Shore Platform Following the Experimental Removal of Mussels
Authors: Gonzalez Juliana A. , Coombes Martin A. , Palomo M. Gabriela , Isla Federico I. , Soria Sabrina A. , Gutiérrez Jorge L.
Published: October 2021

The organisms inhabiting intertidal platforms can affect their weathering and erosion rates. Research on biotic influences on platform integrity has traditionally emphasized the role of bioeroders (i.e., organisms that scrap or bore into platforms via mechanical and chemical means). Yet, recent studies illustrate that covers of sessile organisms on the surfaces of intertidal platforms can have bioprotective effects by reducing the efficacy of physical weathering and erosion agents. Eroding cliffs fronted by cohesive shore platforms are a pervasive feature along the continental Argentinean coastline (37–52°S). In this study, we investigated how mussel (Brachidontes rodriguezii) cover mediates weathering and erosion of a cohesive, consolidated silt platform at Playa Copacabana (5 km north of Miramar, Buenos Aires Province; 38° 14′ S, 57° 46′ W). By means of mussel removal experiments, we found that mussel cover attenuates variations in platform surface temperatures, enhances moisture retention during low tide, reduces rates of salt crystallization within the pores of the platform material, and attenuates hydrodynamic forcing on the platform surface. Mussel removal also led to a 10% decrease in surface hardness and a 2-mm reduction in platform height after 5 months. Collectively, our findings indicate that mussel beds limit substrate breakdown via heating-cooling, wetting-drying, and salt crystallization and provide some of the first experimental field evidence for the direct impacts of biotic cover on platform erosion. As intertidal platforms protect the cliffs behind from the hydraulic impact of waves, which may be enhanced with future sea-level rise, we posit that the protection of platforms by mussels indirectly moderates coastline retreat, especially on soft cohesive shores.
The Nail Penetration Behaviour of Carbon Nanotube Composite Electrodes for Energy Storage
Authors: Koliolios Evangelos , Mills Daniel G. , Busfield James J. C. , Tan Wei
Published: October 2021

The high surface area, electrical and mechanical properties of carbon nanotube (CNT) composites has rendered them promising candidates for structural power composites. Nevertheless, it is important to understand their mechanical behaviour before they are applied in energy storage devices amid the safety concerns. This work explores the nail penetration behaviours of supercapacitor specimens consisting of CNT electrodes and pseudocapacitor specimens with carbon nanotube-polyaniline (CNT/PANI) electrodes. Specimens with and without electrolyte were tested. The dry cells without electrolyte follow a power law behaviour, while the wet cells with the electrolyte exhibit a piece-wise nonlinear relationship. The force, voltage and temperature of the supercapacitor were recorded during the nail penetration test. No temperature change or overheating was observed after short-circuit. Moreover, electrochemical testing is performed before and after the specimen penetration. The cyclic voltammetry shows the dramatic loss of capacitance, changing the cell behaviour from capacitor to resistor-like manner. Johnson-Cook model was used to predict the nail penetration behaviour. The coefficients of Johnson-Cook model are calibrated from the experimental load-displacement curves. The finite element model predictions are in a good agreement with the experimental results.
Glomerular Hyperfiltration Interacts With Abnormal Metabolism to Enhance Arterial Stiffness in Middle-Aged and Elderly People
Authors: Zhai Qi , Wen Jing , Wang Meiping , Zuo Yingting , Su Xin , Zhang Yibo , Gaisano Herbert , He Yan
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Glomerular hyperfiltration (GHF) is an early kidney injury. We investigated whether GHF is associated with arterial stiffness expressed by increase of brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and pulse pressure (PP), and whether the coexistence of GHF and abnormal metabolism increases the risk of arterial stiffness.

Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 2,133 non-chronic kidney disease (CKD) participants aged ≥40 years were followed for a mean period of 3.3 years. The extent of arterial stiffness was expressed by measures of baPWV and PP. GHF was defined as eGFR exceeding the age- and sex-specific 90th percentile. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the association between GHF/abnormal metabolism and increased baPWV/PP. The interaction indexes of GHF and abnormal metabolism on arterial stiffness were calculated based on the OR in a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: GHF alone was not associated with increased baPWV or PP in all participants in this study. However, when GHF coexisted with abnormal metabolism, the risk of increased PP increased 3.23-fold [OR = 3.23(1.47–7.13)] compared with participants with normal filtration and normal metabolism, in which the interaction accounted for 55.1% of the total effect and 79.8% of the effect from GHF and abnormal metabolism. After subtracting the independent effects of GHF and abnormal metabolism, their combined effect still resulted in a 1.78-fold increase in PP.

Conclusion: GHF could interact with abnormal metabolism to significantly enhance arterial stiffness. Since abnormal metabolism commonly exists in the general population, even slight changes in renal function should be distinguished to prevent arterial stiffness risk.
Community Assembly and Co-occurrence Patterns Underlying the Core and Satellite Bacterial Sub-communities in the Tibetan Lakes
Authors: Yan Qi , Deng Jianming , Wang Feng , Liu Yongqin , Liu Keshao
Published: October 2021

Microbial communities normally comprise a few core species and large numbers of satellite species. These two sub-communities have different ecological and functional roles in natural environments, but knowledge on the assembly processes and co-occurrence patterns of the core and satellite species in Tibetan lakes is still sparse. Here, we investigated the ecological processes and co-occurrence relationships of the core and satellite bacterial sub-communities in the Tibetan lakes via 454 sequencing of 16S rRNA gene. Our studies indicated that the core and satellite bacterial sub-communities have similar dominant phyla (Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria). But the core sub-communities were less diverse and exhibited a stronger distance-decay relationship than the satellite sub-communities. In addition, topological properties of nodes in the network demonstrated that the core sub-communities had more complex and stable co-occurrence associations and were primarily driven by stochastic processes (58.19%). By contrast, the satellite sub-communities were mainly governed by deterministic processes (62.17%). Overall, this study demonstrated the differences in the core and satellite sub-community assembly and network stability, suggesting the importance of considering species traits to understand the biogeographic distribution of bacterial communities in high-altitude lakes.
A Comprehensive Molecular and Epidemiological Characterization of Influenza Viruses Circulating 2016–2020 in North Macedonia
Authors: Kuzmanovska Maja , Boshevska Golubinka , Janchevska Elizabeta , Buzharova Teodora , Simova Milica , Peshnacka Aneta , Nikolovska Gordana , Kochinski Dragan , Ilioska Radica Stoleska , Stavridis Kristina , Mikikj Vladimir , Kuzmanovska Gordana , Memeti Shaban , Gjorgoski Icko
Published: October 2021

Influenza viruses know no boundaries, representing an example of rapid virus evolution combined with pressure exerted by the host’s immune system. Seasonal influenza causes 4–50 million symptomatic cases in the EU/EEA each year, with a global death toll reaching 650,000 deaths. That being the case, in 2014 North Macedonia introduced the sentinel surveillance in addition to the existing influenza surveillance in order to obtain more precise data on the burden of disease, circulating viruses and to implement timely preventive measures. The aims of this study were to give a comprehensive virological and epidemiological overview of four influenza seasons (2016–2020), assess the frequency and distribution of influenza circulating in North Macedonia and to carry out molecular and phylogenetic analyses of the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2) from ILI and SARI patients. Our results showed that out of 1,632 tested samples, 46.4% were influenza positive, with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 accounting for the majority of cases (44%), followed by influenza B (32%) and A(H3N2) (17%). By comparing the sentinel surveillance system to the routine surveillance system, we showed that the newly applied system works efficiently and gives great results in the selection of cases. Statistically significant differences (p = < 0.0000001) were observed when comparing the number of reported ILI cases among patients aged 0–4, 5–14, 15–29, and 30–64 years to the reference age group. The phylogenetic analysis of the HA sequences unveiled the resemblance of mutations circulating seasonally worldwide, with a vast majority of circulating viruses belonging to subclade 6B.1A. The PROVEAN analysis showed that the D187A substitution in the receptor binding site (RBS) of the A(H1N1)pdm09 HA has a deleterious effect on the its function. The A(H3N2) viruses fell into the 3C.2a and 3C.3a throughout the analyzed seasons. Molecular characterization revealed that various substitutions in the A(H3N2) viruses gradually replaced the parental variant in subsequent seasons before becoming the dominant variant. With the introduction of sentinel surveillance, accompanied by the advances made in whole-genome sequencing and vaccine therapeutics, public health officials can now modify their approach in disease management and intervene effectively and in a timely manner to prevent major morbidity and mortality from influenza.
Drought Stress Triggers Shifts in the Root Microbial Community and Alters Functional Categories in the Microbial Gene Pool
Authors: Xie Jianbo , Dawwam Ghada E. , Sehim Amira E. , Li Xian , Wu Jiadong , Chen Sisi , Zhang Deqiang
Published: October 2021

Drought is a major threat to crop productivity and causes decreased plant growth, poor yields, and crop failure. Nevertheless, the frequency of droughts is expected to increase in the coming decades. The microbial communities associated with crop plants can influence how plants respond to various stresses; hence, microbiome manipulation is fast becoming an effective strategy for improving the stress tolerance of plants. The effect of drought stress on the root microbiome of perennial woody plants is currently poorly understood. Using Populus trees as a model ecosystem, we found that the diversity of the root microbial community decreased during drought treatment and that compositional shifts in microbes during drought stress were driven by the relative abundances of a large number of dominant phyla, including Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria. A subset of microbes, including Streptomyces rochei, Bacillus arbutinivorans, B. endophyticus, B. megaterium, Aspergillus terreus, Penicillium raperi, Trichoderma ghanense, Gongronella butleri, and Rhizopus stolonifer, was isolated from the drought-treated poplar rhizosphere soils, which have potentially beneficial to plant fitness. Further controlled inoculation experiments showed that the isolated bacterial and fungal isolates positively impacted plant growth and drought tolerance. Collectively, our results demonstrate the impact of drought on root microbiome structure and provide a novel example of manipulating root microbiomes to improve plant tolerance.
Where the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Meets the microRNAs: Literature Review of the Last 10 Years
Authors: Disner Geonildo Rodrigo , Lopes-Ferreira Monica , Lima Carla
Published: October 2021

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an environmentally responsive ligand-activated transcription factor, identified in the ‘70s for its toxic responses to halogenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, such as dioxin. Recently, AhR has been recognized as engaged in multiple physiological processes in health and diseases, particularly in the immune system, inflammatory response, tumorigenesis, and cellular differentiation by epigenetic mechanisms involving miRNAs. However, there is still scarce information about AhR-dependent miRNA regulation and miRNA-mediated epigenetic control in pathologies and therapies. In this review, we explore the mutual regulation of AhR and miRNA over the last decade of studies since many miRNAs have dioxin response elements (DRE) in their 3’ UTR, as well as AhR might contain binding sites of miRNAs. TCDD is the most used ligand to investigate the impact of AhR activation, and the immune system is one of the most sensitive of its targets. An association between TCDD-activated AhR and epigenetic mechanisms like post-transcriptional regulation by miRNAs, DNA methylation, or histone modification has already been confirmed. Besides, several studies have shown that AhR-induced miR-212/132 cluster suppresses cancers, attenuates autoimmune diseases, and has an anti-inflammatory role in different immune responses by regulating cytokine levels and immune cells. Together the ever-expanding new AhR roles and the miRNA therapeutics are a prominent segment among biopharmaceuticals. Additionally, AhR-activated miRNAs can serve as valuable biomarkers of diseases, notably cancer progression or suppression and chemical exposure. Once AhR-dependent gene expression may hinge on the ligand, cell type, and context singularity, the reviewed outcomes might help contextualize state of the art and support new trends and emerging opportunities in the field.