bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dethroning the Planetary Perspective: Dealing with Actually-Occurring Transformations Using Dialogical Sense-Making and Critical Phenomenology
Authors: Woroniecki Stephen , Wibeck Victoria , Zeiler Kristin , Linnér Björn-Ola
Published: January 2022

Transformation studies lean towards the more practical aspects of change processes and are not yet dealing adequately with their personal and political dimensions. They are arguably constrained in doing so in their current stances, either fixated on systems and how to control them or on individualistic values and behaviours. In this study we show the range of actually-occurring societal transformations that people face can be usefully approached through a combination of dialogical sense-making and critical phenomenology. While distinct, these approaches share a concern with experience and meaning-making, concerns which are often neglected when societal transformation becomes abstracted and alienated from people’s lives. The two approaches reveal how societal transformational change is situated, shared, embodied and laden with diverse meanings. Dialogical sense-making expands the theorisation of the experiential, personal and political dimensions of transformation and shows how the practical dimension of change is always personal and political. Critical phenomenology addresses how the experience of transformation help shape subjectivity, as a lived relation to the world, and sheds light on taken-for-granted, lived norms about bodies and transformative change. Drawing together the three spheres of transformation – the practical, personal, and political - allows a fuller grasp of the complexity in which new worlds may emerge. Through a discussion of insights from these approaches, we develop a language and framework to understand how people interact with change processes. This development allows new questions about transformative change, based on a reframing of transformations that brings them closer to people’s lives. Together these approaches broaden and deepen social-science and humanities contributions to transformation studies and sustainability science.
RAFT FORMING BUOYANT pH DEPENDENT THIXOTROPIC GELLING SYSTEMS INCORPORATED WITH GELUCIRE 43/01 AS A POTENTIAL STOMACH SPECIFIC DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR FAMOTIDINE
Authors:   Shashank Soni, Tiwari Pallavi
Published: January 2022

Famotidine (FMT) is known as a histamine blocker (H2) that inhibits stomach acid production and it is commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and gastric-esophageal reflux disease. It has a short half life (2.5-3.5 hours), low bioavailability (40-45%). It has excellent solubility in acidic pH just reverse in alkaline pH. Therefore an attempt has been made to develop raft buoyant gastro-retentive sustains release delivery system with in situ gelling property which is based on thixotropy behavior. Twelve formulations (Excluding two controlled formulations i.e. F and F*) were designed to contain 40 mg of FMT using Chitosan; CH (cationic polymer), Sodium Alginate; SA (anionic polymer), Gelucire 43/01; G 43/01 (lipid phase) as retardant and adhesive polymers. Emulgel was prepared and evaluated for their physicochemical properties like buoyancy and lag time, cumulative % drug release, drug release kinetics and drug excipient interaction studies by thermal studies and functional group characterization.
Descripción morfométrica y faneroptica de la cabra “Chusca lojana” del bosque seco del Sur del Ecuador
Authors: Aguirre E.L. , Quezada M. , Maza T. , Albito O. , Armijos D.R. , Flores A. , Camacho O.
Published: January 2022

En la Región Sur del Ecuador se encuentra la zona del bosque seco que abarca desde los 100 metros sobre el nivel del mar (m.s.n.m) hasta los 1200 m.s.n.m, lugar donde se ha adaptado la cabra criolla llamada “Chusca lojana”. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo la caracterización fenotípica de este recurso zoogenético, permitiendo disponer de un patrón o estándar racial con fines de identificación, estudio, selección y mejoramiento de esta población. La investigación comprendió una muestra de 163 cabras adultas manejadas en ambiente extensivo, considerando 21 medidas morfométricas y 10 características fanerópticas; para el análisis morfométrico se aplicó una estadística no paramétrica con el Test de Kruskal-Wallis considerando como variables el sexo y los biotipos. Los resultados permitieron identificar 4 biotipos, que de acuerdo a ciertas características peculiares que presentan a nivel de cabeza y orejas se las ha identificado como: Chusca “oreja corta y doblada”, Chusca “oreja de león”, Chusca oreja “torneada” y Chusca “muca”; en el aspecto faneróptico presentan cuernos opistoceros (58%) y ortoceros (37%), siendo un 22% acornes (biotipo Chusca muca), poseen barba y mamelas el 26 y 29%, respectivamente, presentando estas dos características un dimorfismo en favor de los machos; la mayoría de esta población presenta un perfil de rostro recto (67%) y subcóncavo (28%); la forma de la ubre es globosa (64%), el color de pezones (93%) y cascos (87%) es pigmentado; los machos presentan testículos pendulosos (70%) y una característica peculiar es que poseen un escroto dividido en dos sacos (40%). En conclusión, la cabra Chusca es un animal con una tendencia productiva más a leche que a carne, destacando su capacidad torácica que le permite recorrer con facilidad por la topografía irregular de la zona en busca de alimento.
Caulim: Características físicas e químicas de um marcador de consumo ideal
Authors: Caramelar L.S. , Ribeiro C.B. , Morais M.G. , Carvalho T.A. , Costa T.G. , Oliveira L.O.F.
Published: January 2022

O objetivo da revisão foi descrever as características físicas e químicas do caulim, a fim de se conhecer a substância e propor como opção de marcador externo de consumo de matéria seca e excreção fecal de bovinos de corte em pastejo. Um marcador é considerado ideal quando apresenta características como ser inerte, não ser tóxico, não ter funçã o fisiológica, não ser metabolizado, entre outras. Atualmente todos os marcadores possuem limitações, com isso pesquisas têm sido realizadas com intuito de descobrir um marcador que apresente todas esses atributos. Assim, o caulim destaca-se como interessante alternativa, pois além de fazer parte da nutriçã o dos animais, trata-se de um mineral cujas características evidenciam possível aplicaçã o, como ser inerte em ampla faixa de pH (3 a 9), fácil dispersão, baixa condutividade térmica e elétrica, baixo custo e boa resistência ao ataque químico por ácidos ou álcalis. Para a mensuração da substância via fezes, é preciso determinar a concentração de algum de seus elementos, ou seja, pelo fato do Al de estar presente nas forrageiras em concentração muito pequena, e metodologia analítica mais prática, leva a acreditar que este elemento é a escolha mais coerente. Conclui-se que o caulim características de um potencial marcador externo e pode ser quantificado com precisão nas fezes por meio do elemento alumínio.
Benthic Foraminifera of Tropical Estuarine-Lagoonal-Bays System, in the Suape Harbor, Brazil: A Case Study
Authors: de Oliveira Taiana Regina Silva , dos Santos Luciana Dantas , Eichler Patrícia Pinheiro Beck , Barker Christofer Paul , Barcellos Roberto Lima
Published: January 2022

The Suape Industrial Port Complex is one of the main Brazilian public ports that has caused several geomorphological changes in Ipojuca and Suape estuarine-lagoonal-bays since its construction. The present study deals with the first status on the Suape port ecosystem, recorded from 41 sediment samples throughout the Massangana/Tatuoca and Ipojuca/Merepe estuarine systems. Species diversity values are higher in the seaward part of the bays and decreases toward the inner parts. The dominance of Ammonia tepida in the inner portions of the bays is indicative of environmental instability and pollution of coastal waters. Eggerella spp., unusual in Brazilian fauna, was present only in the innermost portion of the Tatuoca estuary, in the dredged channel, where heavy metal impacts have been reported. Amphistegina gibbosa, Triloculina oblonga, and Quinqueloculina lamarckiana are represented on the outside of the bays and are indicative of high hydrodynamic marine environments. The Ipojuca and Merepe rivers presented the highest ecological index, possibly attributed to the marine and terrestrial/mangrove influence for the region. We infer that geomorphological transformation caused by the Suape Port installation modified and established environments with distinct characteristics, mainly in the Suape Bay dredged area, indicative of possible eutrophication of this environment. The new data may be useful for determining environmental conditions and establishing new ways to monitor the consequences of anthropogenic interference and dredging in the Massangana/Tatuoca and Ipojuca/Merepe estuarine systems.
PEMANFAATAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN AUDIO VISUAL DALAM MENGEMBANGKAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR SISWA PADA MATA PELAJARAN IPS TERPADU
Authors: Muhammad Ikhsan  , Muhammad Syafiq Humaisi
Published: January 2022

ABSTRAK

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi oleh keingin tahuan peneliti dalam pemanfaatan media pembelajaran audio visual yang ada di SMP Negeri 1 Jenangan, Media audio visual adalah media yang mempunyai unsur suara dan unsur gambar, Jenis media ini mampu memberikan pengalaman belajar yang lebih baik karena meliputi suara dan gambar. Untuk menunjang kesuksesan media ini haruslah dengan sarana dan prasarana yang memadai dan layak untuk difungsikan. Sejumlah peralatan yang dipakai oleh para guru dalam menyampaikan konsep, gagasan dan pengalaman yang ditangkap oleh indera pandang dan pendengaran berdasarkan pengertian-pengertian yang telah diberikan. Pemanfaatan media pembelajaran berbasis audio visual didasari adanya masalah rendahnya motivasi belajar peserta didik dalam proses pembelajaran yang menyebabkan peserta didik kurang aktif dalam memperhatikan pelajaran. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan jenis penelitian studi kasus. Menggunakan studi kasus karena dalam penelitian, peneliti menekankan pada penjelasan kasus, yakni pemanfaatan media audio visual pada mata pelajaran IPS Terpadu di SMP Negeri 1 Jenangan. Data yang didapatkan dengan teknik pengumpulan data observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi.

 

ABSTRACT

This research was motivated by the researcher's curiosity in the use of audio-visual learning media at SMP Negeri 1 Jenang. Audio-visual media is media that has sound and image elements. This type of media is able to provide a better learning experience because it includes sound and images. . To support the success of this media, it must be with adequate facilities and infrastructure that are appropriate to function. A number of tools used by teachers in conveying concepts, ideas and experiences that are captured by the sense of sight and hearing based on the meanings that have been given. The use of audio-visual based learning media is based on the problem of low learning motivation of students in the learning process which causes students to be less active in paying attention to lessons. This research uses a qualitative approach with the type of case study research. Using case studies because in research, researchers emphasize case explanations, namely the use of audio-visual media in Integrated Social Studies subjects at SMP Negeri 1 Jenang. The data obtained by using observation data collection techniques, interviews and documentation.
Upaya Guru Meningkatkan Sikap Sosial Siswa melalui Metode Diskusi pada Mata Pelajaran IPS
Authors: Septiani Binti , Widda Djuhan Muhammad
Published: January 2022

In the teaching and learning process in schools it cannot be separated from the interaction process social, which is the main condition for the occurrence of social activities in the school environment. Activities teaching and learning related to social interaction, one of which is discussion. Attitude social is an act of someone to live in society like each other interact, help each other, respect each other, and so on. Social attitude is necessary developed because it can create a peaceful, harmonious, comfortable, and peaceful life atmosphere. When discussing Social Sciences lessons, the discussion method supports the course of social interaction by showing the social attitudes of each student. It was found at SMP Negeri 1 Balong according to the results of observations and interviews researcher, students of class VIII F in learning conditions, it appears that the students' social attitudes categorized as less good. As researchers found that students do not reflect honest attitude, courtesy, and lack of cooperation. As a first example, deviation of honest attitude is indicated when the teacher gives test questions or assignments then done individually, the result is that some children have cognitive abilities the less good and vice versa. The tendency of children with low cognitive performance actions that are less honest because they tend to rely more on students smart.
Norma e poder no ensino de língua portuguesa: crítica ao reducionismo determinista
Authors: Rocha Elizabeth Gonçalves Lima
Published: January 2022

O objetivo deste trabalho é problematizar a noção de norma gramatical a partir de conceitos retirados em alguns autores da Teoria Crítica e no referencial teórico da TOPE (Teoria das Operações Predicativas e Enunciativas) desenvolvida por Antoine Culioli. Vê-se que o conceito de norma, devido ao seu efeito exceptivo e conteúdo prescritivo, limita o conhecimento adequado da linguagem, entendida aqui como atividade operatória, cuja natureza dinâmica e proliferativa rechaça toda regulação preceptiva e todo ordenamento classificatório. Reflete-se, igualmente, levando em conta as práticas do ensino em sala de aula e os Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais, sobre as consequências pedagógicas dessa problematização, especificamente no ensino de língua portuguesa.
Quantitative Assessment of Circulating Tumor Cells in Cerebrospinal Fluid as a Clinical Tool to Predict Survival in Leptomeningeal Metastases
Authors: Diaz Maria , Singh Priya , Kotchetkov Ivan , Skakodub Anna , Meng Alicia , Tamer Christel , Young Robert , Reiner Anne , Panageas Katherine , Ramanathan Lakshmi , Pentsova Elena
Published: January 2022

Purpose
Circulating tumor cells (CTC) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are a quantitative diagnostic tool for leptomeningeal metastases (LM) from solid tumors, but their prognostic significance is unclear. Our objective was to evaluate CSF-CTC quantification in predicting outcomes in LM.
Methods
This is a single institution retrospective study of patients with solid tumors who underwent CSF-CTC quantification using the CellSearch® platform between 04/2016-06/2019. Information on neuroaxis imaging, CSF results, and survival was collected. LM was diagnosed by MRI and/or CSF cytology. Survival analyses were performed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling, and CSF-CTC splits associated with survival were identified through recursive partitioning analysis.
Results
Out of 290 patients with CNS metastases, we identified a cohort of 101 patients with newly diagnosed LM. In this group, CSF-CTC count (median 200 CTCs/3ml) predicted survival continuously (HR = 1.005, 95% CI: 1.002-1.009, p = 0.0027), and the risk of mortality doubled (HR = 2.84, 95% CI: 1.45-5.56, p = 0.0023) at the optimal cutoff of ≥ 61 CSF-CTCs/3ml. Neuroimaging findings of LM (assessed by 3 independent neuroradiologists) were associated with a higher CSF-CTC count (median CSF-CTCs range 1.5-4 for patients without radiographic LM vs 200 for patients with radiographic LM, p<0.001), but did not predict survival.
Conclusion
Our data shows that CSF-CTCs quantification predicts survival in newly diagnosed LM, and outperforms neuroimaging. CSF-CTC analysis can be used as a prognostic tool in patients with LM and provides quantitative assessment of disease burden in the CNS compartment.
Prediction of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus By Different Obesity Indices
Authors: Song Zhimin , Cheng Yan , Fan Yongfang , Zhang Qingying , Cheng Haidong
Published: January 2022

Background: The incidence rate of obesity and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing in parallel. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between different obesity indices including pre-pregnancy body mass index(preBMI), the first trimester abdominal circumference (AC), the first trimester abdominal circumference/height ratio (ACHtR) and GDM, and the efficacy of these three indices in predicting GDM.Methods: A total of 15472 pregnant women gave birth to a single child at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China. Weight before pregnancy, height and AC were asked and measured at the first prenatal examination at 11-13+6 gestational weeks. GDM was diagnosed through a 75g oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 gestational weeks. Using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, we evaluated the association between the obesity indices and GDM. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that AC, the ACHtR，and preBMI（P＜0.001） were all independent risk factors for the development of GDM. In the normal BMI population, the higher the AC or the ACHtR, the more likely the pregnant women were to suffer from GDM. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.63 (95% CI 0.62-0.64) for AC ,0.64 (95% CI 0.63-0.65) for the ACHtR and 0.63 (95% CI 0.62-0.64) for preBMI. An AC ≥ 80.25cm(sensitivity 61.6%, specificity 57.9%), an ACHtR of ≥0. 49 (sensitivity 67.3%, specificity 54%), and a preBMI ≥22.74 (sensitivity 48.4%, specificity 71.8%) were determined to be the best cut-off levels for identifying subjects with GDM. Conclusions: AC, the ACHtR and preBMI had value in predicting GDM. The increase in AC and the ACHtR in the first trimester of pregnancy and preBMI could be independent risk factors for GDM. Even in the normal BMI population, the higher the AC is, the more likely the pregnant women are to suffer from GDM.
Evolution of multicellular longitudinally dividing oral cavity symbionts (Neisseriaceae)
Authors: Nyongesa Sammy , Weber Philipp , Bernet Eve , Pullido Francisco , Nieckarz Marta , Delaby Marie , Nieves Cecilia , Viehboeck Tobias , Krause Nicole , Rivera-Millot Alex , Nakamura Arnaldo , Vischer Norbert , VanNieuwenhze Michael , Brun Yves , Cava Felipe , Bulgheresi Silvia , Veyrier Frédéric
Published: January 2022

In spite of the staggering number of bacteria that live associated with animals, the growth mode of only a few symbionts has been studied so far. Here, we focused on multicellular longitudinally dividing (MuLDi) Neisseriaceae occurring in the oral cavity of mammals and belonging to the genera Alysiella, Simonsiella and Conchiformibius. Firstly, by applying comparative genomics coupled with ultrastructural analysis, we inferred that longitudinal division evolved from a rod-shaped ancestor of the Neisseriaceae family. Secondly, transmission electron microscopy on cells and sacculi showed that, within each A. filiformis, S. muelleri or C. steedae filament, neighbouring cells are attached by their lateral cell walls. Thirdly, by applying a palette of peptidoglycan metabolic precursors to track their growth, we showed that A. filiformis septates in a distal-to-proximal fashion. In S. muelleri and C. steedae, instead, septation proceeds synchronously from the host-attached poles to midcell. Strikingly, based on confocal-based 3D reconstructions, PG did not appear to be inserted concentrically from the cell periphery to its centre, but as a medial sheet guillotining each cell. Finally, comparative genomics revealed MuLDi-specific differences that set them apart from rod-shaped members of the Neisseriaceae. These MuLDi-specific genetic differences comprise the acquisition of the amidase-encoding gene amiC2, the loss of dgt, gloB, mraZ (an activator of the dcw cluster), rapZ, and amino acids changes in 7 proteins, including the actin homolog MreB and FtsA. Strikingly, introduction of amiC2 and allelic substitution of mreB in the rod-shaped Neisseria elongata resulted in cells with longer septa. In conclusion, we identified genetic events that may have allowed rod-shaped Neisseriaceae to evolve multicellularity and longitudinal division. The morphological plasticity of Neisseriaceae together with their genetic tractability, make them archetypal models for understanding the evolution of bacterial shape, as well as that of animal-bacterium symbioses.
Organic Anions Facilitate the Mobilization of Soil Organic Phosphorus and Enhances Its Subsequent Lability To Phosphatases
Authors: Richardson Alan E. , George Timothy , Hens Maarten , Delhaize Emmanuel , Ryan Peter , Simpson Richard , Hocking Peter
Published: January 2022

Purpose
Organic anions commonly released from plant roots are widely reported to mobilize soil phosphorus (P). We characterized soil organic P that was mobilized by organic anions and assessed its amenability to hydrolysis by phosphatase enzymes.
Methods
Six soils differing in organic P content were extracted with citrate, malate or oxalate solutions and incubated with preparations of phosphomonoesterase, phosphodiesterase, or phytase. Organic P compounds present in these extracts were putatively identified and quantified with solution 31P NMR spectroscopy and the enzyme-labile P fractions were assessed by changes in molybdate reactive P (MRP) concentration.
Results
Organic P mobilization varied markedly among the organic anions. Extraction with 10 mM citrate was most effective and extracted 7.8-fold more total P than the water controls across all soils. Approximately 95% of the extracted P was non-MRP. The organic anions increased both the amount of P extracted and the proportion of the total extracted P that was phosphatase labile. Phytase was generally the most effective enzyme with up to 60% of the total non-MRP being amenable to hydrolysis by phytase across all extracts. The presence of inositol hexakisphosphates in the extracts, as well as other forms of organic P including nucleic acids and phospholipids, was verified by 31P NMR with concentrations dependent on both organic anion and soil type.
Conclusion
The combination of organic anions and phosphatases represents a key mechanism by which plants and microorganisms can enhance the bioavailability of soil P. This has important implications for understanding P dynamics in natural and managed ecosystems and for ongoing efforts to improve the P-use efficiency of agricultural plants.
Interventions to enhance newborn care in North-West Ethiopia: The experiences of Health care professionals
Authors: Birhanu Bizuhan Gelaw , Mathibe-Neke Johanna Mmbabojalwa
Published: January 2022

Background
The provision of optimal and quality services during labour, delivery and in the early neonatal period is highly required to accelerate the reduction of neonatal deaths and improve the quality of life of newborns. The availability of competent health professionals and the essential medicines and supplies in the health facilities are compulsory. This study aimed to explore and describe the quality of care provided to newborns in the primary healthcare units.
Methods
Qualitative exploratory and descriptive design was employed. Focus group discussions were held with 26 participants (11 health workers and 15 health extension workers) in three woredas in the West Gojjam zone, Ethiopia. Health workers and health extension workers were purposely selected. Thematic analysis was undertaken.
Results
The primary healthcare facilities play a major role in the provision of essential services for newborns in the critical periods, including during labor and birth, immediately after birth and in the early postnatal care period. Resuscitation of birth asphyxia, prevention of hypothermia, initiation of breastfeeding, application of tetracycline, vitamin k injection, weighing babies and chlorhexidine application were identified as immediate essential intervention for the newborns. However, these interventions are hampered by factors such as lack of adequately trained staff & hands-on skills; weak referral linkage; stock-out of essential medicines and supplies and poor quality for early postnatal care home visits.
Conclusions
In order to enhance the quality of newborns healthcare provision, the health-systems constraints at health centres and heath posts level should be fixed to provide the required services for newborns. This requires allocation of adequate resources to tackle health facilities readiness related bottlenecks, such as the frequent stock out or lack of essential supplies, equipment, and medicines, lack of proper space for the service provision, not systematic replenishing of the revised job-aids and maintenance of medical equipment, poor infection prevention including water and sanitation in the maternity wards and newborn corners.
Microbubble Propulsion, Train-like Assembly and Cargo Transport in an Acoustic Field
Authors: Janiak Jakub , Doinikov Alexander , Ahmed Daniel
Published: January 2022

Self-assembly, trapping, and transport of microparticles can be pivotal in medicine, lab-on-a-chip applications, and other fields; however, complex non-Newtonian fluids pose fundamental challenges for these processes. Here, we show that for two glass boundaries set amongst a viscous, shear-thinning gel and separated by a narrow slit (~20 µm), incident acoustic waves are concentrated at the interstice, and microbubbles in the surrounding gel exhibit consequent nucleation and other interesting behaviours. When the acoustic field is intermittently activated, microbubbles transform between spherical (off) and ellipsoidal (on) shapes; ellipsoidal microbubbles squeeze into the interstice and become trapped, while spherical ones are pushed out. Upon continuous activation, the ellipsoidal microbubbles execute propulsion driven by Faraday waves superimposed on volume modes developed at their surfaces. When in proximity, they self-assemble into a chain-like microtrain capable of trapping microparticles between its members. Upon deactivation, the microparticles are released, thus simulating a microcargo train.
Autoantibodies targeting cytokines and connective tissue disease autoantigens are common in acute non-SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Authors: Feng Allan , Yang Emily , Moore Andrew , Dhingra Shaurya , Chang Sarah , Yin Xihui , Pi Ruoxi , Mack Elisabeth , Völkel Sara , Geßner Reinhard , Gundisch Margrit , Neubauer Andreas , Renz Harald , TSIODRAS SOTIRIOS , Fragkou Paraskevi , Asuni Adijat , Levitt Joseph , Wilson Jennifer , Leong Michelle , Lumb Jennifer , Mao Rong , Pinedo Kassandra , Roque Jonasel , Richards Christopher , Stabile Mikayla , Swaminathan Gayathri , Salagianni Maria , Triantafyllia Vasiliki , Bertrams Wilhelm , Blish Catherine , Carette Jan , Frankovich Jennifer , Meffre Eric , Nadeau Kari C. , Singh Upinder , Wang Taia , Prak Eline Luning , Herold Susanne , Andreakos Evangelos , Schmeck Bernd , Skevaki Chrysanthi , Rogers Angela , Utz Paul
Published: January 2022

The widespread presence of autoantibodies in acute infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is increasingly recognized, but the prevalence of autoantibodies in infections with organisms other than SARS-CoV-2 has not yet been reported. We used protein arrays to profile IgG autoantibodies from 317 samples from 268 patients across a spectrum of non-SARS-CoV-2 infections, many of whom were critically ill with pneumonia. Anti-cytokine antibodies (ACA) were identified in > 50% of patients infected with non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses and other pathogens, including patients with pneumonia attributed to bacterial causes. In cell-based functional assays, some ACA blocked binding to surface receptors for type I interferons (Type I IFN), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Autoantibodies against traditional autoantigens associated with connective tissue diseases (CTDs) were also commonly observed in these cohorts, including newly-detected antibodies that emerged in longitudinal samples from patients infected with influenza. We conclude that autoantibodies, some of which are functionally active, may be much more prevalent than previously appreciated in patients who are symptomatically infected with diverse pathogens.
Gastrointestinal Microbiome: Novel Paradigm Proposed in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder Associated Social Behavioral Symptoms in Two Rodent Models
Authors: Mintál Kitti , Toth Attila , Hormay Edina , Kovács Anita , László Kristóf , Bufa Anita , Marosvölgyi Tamás , Kocsis Béla , Varga Adorján , Vizvári Zoltán , Cserjési Renáta , Péczely László , Ollmann Tamás , Lénárd László , Karádi Zoltán
Published: January 2022

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has rapidly increased in the past decades, and several studies report about the escalating use of antibiotics and the consequent disruption of the gastrointestinal microbiome leading to the development of neurobehavioral symptoms resembling to those of ASD. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate whether depletion of the gastrointestinal microbiome via antibiotics treatment could induce ASD-like behavioral symptoms in adulthood. To reliably evaluate that, validated valproic acid (VPA) ASD animal model was introduced. At last, we intended to demonstrate the assessed potential benefits of a probiotic mixture (PM) developed by our research team. Male Wistar rats were used to create antibiotics treated; antibiotics and PM treated; PM treated, VPA treated; VPA and PM treated; and control groups. In all investigations we focused on social behavioral disturbances. Antibiotics-induced microbiome alterations during adulthood triggered severe deficits in social behavior similar to those observed in the VPA model. Furthermore, it is highlighted that our PM proved to attenuate both the antibiotics- and the VPA-generated antisocial behavioral symptoms. The present findings underline potential capacity of our PM to improve social behavioral alterations thus, indicate its promising therapeutic power to attenuate the social-affective disturbances of ASD.
A Unified Vendor-Agnostic Solution for Big Data Stream Processing in a Multi-Cloud Environment
Authors: Vergilio Thalita , Kor Ah-Lian , Mullier Duncan
Published: January 2022

The research field of cloud computing has witnessed tremendous progress as commercial cloud providers brought powerful distributed infrastructures within reach of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through their revolutionary pay-as-you-go model. Simultaneously, the popularisation of containers has empowered virtualisation with seamless orchestration technologies for the deployment and management of large-scale distributed systems across different geolocations and providers. Big data is another research area which has developed at an extraordinary pace as industries endeavour to discover innovative and effective ways of processing large volumes of structured, semi-structured and unstructured data emitted at high velocity by an increasing number of internet-enabled devices. This research aims to integrate the latest advances within the fields of cloud computing, virtualisation and big data for a systematic approach to stream processing. The novel contributions of this research are: 1) MC-BDP, a reference architecture for big data stream processing in a containerised, multi-cloud environment; 2) a case study conducted with the Estates and Sustainability departments at Leeds Beckett University to evaluate an MC-BDP prototype within the context of energy efficiency for smart buildings.
Massive Crossover Suppression by CRISPR-Cas-mediated Plant Chromosome Engineering
Authors: Rönspies Michelle , Schmidt Carla , Lieberman-Lazarovich Michal , Schindele Patrick , Houben Andreas , Puchta Holger
Published: January 2022

Recent studies have demonstrated that not only genes, but also entire chromosomes can be engineered using CRISPR-Cas9 1–5. A major objective of applying chromosome restructuring (CR) in plant breeding is the manipulation of genetic exchange 6. Here we show that meiotic recombination can be suppressed in nearly the entire chromosome using CR. We were able to induce a heritable inversion of a more than 17 Mb-long chromosome fragment, which contained the centromere and covered most of chromosome 2 of the Arabidopsis ecotype Col-0. Only the 2 and 0.5 Mb-long telomeric ends remained in their original orientation. In SNP marker analysis with the offspring of crosses with the ecotype Ler-1, we detected a massive reduction of crossovers (CO) within the inverted chromosome region, coupled with a shift of CO to the telomeric ends. Interestingly, the few genetic exchanges detected within the inversion all originated from double CO. This not only indicates that heritable genetic exchange can occur by interstitial chromosome pairing, but also that it is restricted to the production of viable progeny.
Dose-Dependent Role of a New Biotin Compound in Hippocampal Demyelination in Rats
Authors: Yulug Burak , Kilic Ertugrul , Orhan Cemal , Er Besir , Tuzcu Mehmet , Ozercan Ibrahim Hanifi , Sahin Nurhan , Canpolat Sinan , Komorowski James , Ojalvo Sara Perez , Sylla Sarah , Cankaya Seyda , Sahin Kazim
Published: January 2022

Demyelination is generally observed in different neurodegenerative disorders, including Multiple sclerosis (MS). It is known that high-dose biotin supplementation stabilizes MS progression. To reduce the effective dose of biotin, here we synthesized a new and superior form of biotin, which is a complex of magnesium ionically bound to biotin (MgB) and compared its dose-dependent effect with biotin alone after lysolecithin (LPC)-induced demyelination in rats. Myelination was studied with luxol fast blue staining and revealed that the most significant remyelination occurred in the MgB groups. We observed dose-dependent improved spatial memory in both biotin and MgB combined animals. Furthermore, we detected decreased inflammatory proteins in both treatment groups, which were more prominent in high-dose MgB treated animals, associated with improved NF-κB, OP, and MMP-9 proteins. We further analyzed biotin-related proteins and observed that both biotin and particularly MgB reverses the LPC-induced reduction of these proteins. Furthermore, we have observed that biotin but particularly MgB improves neuronal transmission proteins, Synapsin-1, PSD-93, and PSD 95. Moreover, increased BDNF, GAP-43, and ICAM were detected in both treatment groups, especially significant in high-dose MgB treated animals. Increased GFAP, which indicates reactive gliosis, was observed in LPC treated animals, which were reversed particularly by high-dose MgB treatment. The present data reveal the dose-dependent beneficial effect of biotin on demyelination processes. However, a combination of biotin with Mg resulted in a more potent effect than biotin alone. The robust impact of MgB encourages proof-of-concept studies with MgB in human MS patients.
A nomogram for predicting prognosis of internal mammary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Jinzhao , Zhang Wei-Fang , Li Yi-Fei , Cui Guo-Zhong , Yang Chao , Zhang Geng , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Xiang-Mei , Liu Yun-Jiang
Published: January 2022

Background: Breast cancer patients with internal mammary lymph node (IMLN) metastasis have been shown to have poor prognosis, and the overall survival of patients was significantly different. The nomogram was developed to predict prognosis of IMLN metastasis in breast cancer patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and divide the patients into different risk groups.Methods: This retrospective study included 218 breast cancer patients with IMLN metastasis who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Based on the multivariate Cox regression model, we determined independent prognostic factors in breast cancer patients with IMLN metastasis and developed a predictive nomogram using these factors. The discrimination and performance of the nomogram was assessed by C‐index, the calibration curves and decision curve analyses. Patients were stratified into the high- risk group and low-risk group based on the best cut-off risk score. The Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed between the two different risk groups to assess the predictive ability of the nomogram.Results: Menopausal status, clinical T stage, pathological Complete Response, axillary lymph node metastasis and Ki-67 were independent prognostic factors in breast cancer patients with IMLN metastasis. These prognostic factors were determined for the development of the nomogram. The C‐index of the nomogram was 0.77, which showed the nomogram provided good discernment. The calibration curves demonstrated optimal agreement between prediction by the nomogram and actual observation. The decision curve analyses further demonstrated that the nomogram had the best net benefits. The patients with IMLN metastasis were divided into high-risk group (total score ≥206.9733) and low-risk group (total score＜206.9733), and the risk group stratification confirmed that the nomogram had great capacity for distinguishing the prognosis. Conclusions: The nomogram was developed and validated to predict prognosis of IMLN metastasis in breast cancer patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. It might help clinicians to identify patients who need individualized treatment and active post-operative surveillance. However, it is necessary to further mine the unknown prognostic factors to optimize the nomogram, and more external validation is still required.
Deletion of CD47 from Schwann cells, macrophages and microglia hastens myelin disruption and scavenging in Schwann cells and augments myelin debris phagocytosis in macrophages and microglia
Authors: Gitik Miri , Elberg Gerard , Reichert Fanny , Tal Michael , Rotshenker Shlomo
Published: January 2022

Background: Myelin that surrounds axons breaks in trauma and disease; e.g., PNI and SCI (peripheral nerve and spinal cord injuries) and MS (multiple sclerosis). Resulting myelin debris hinders repair if not effectively scavenged by Schwann cells and macrophages in PNI and by microglia in SCI and MS. We showed previously that myelin debris evades phagocytosis as CD47 on myelin ligates SIRPα (signal regulatory protein-α) on macrophages and microglia, triggering SIRPα to inhibit phagocytosis in phagocytes. Using PNI as a model, we tested the in-vivo significance of SIRPα-dependent phagocytosis inhibition in SIRPα null mice, showing that SIRPα deletion leads to accelerated myelin debris clearance, axon regeneration and recovery of function from PNI. Herein, we tested how deletion of CD47, a SIRPα ligand and a cell surface receptor on Schwann cells and phagocytes, affects recovery from PNI. Methods: Using CD47 null (CD47-/-) and wild type mice, we studied myelin disruption and debris clearance, axon regeneration and recovery of function from PNI. Results: As expected from CD47 on myelin acting as a SIRPα ligand that normally triggers SIRPα-dependent phagocytosis inhibition in phagocytes, myelin debris clearance, axon regeneration and function recovery were all faster in CD47-/- mice than in wild type mice. Unexpectedly compared with wild type mice, myelin debris clearance started sooner and CD47-deleted Schwann cells displayed enhanced disruption and scavenging of myelin in CD47-/- mice. Furthermore, CD47-deleted macrophages and CD47-deleted microglia from CD47-/- mice phagocytosed more than CD47-expressing phagocytes from wild type mice. Conclusions: This study reveals two novel normally occurring CD47-dependent mechanisms that impede myelin debris clearance. First, CD47 expressed on Schwann cells inhibits myelin disruption and debris scavenging in Schwann cells. Second, CD47 expressed on macrophages and microglia inhibits myelin debris phagocytosis in phagocytes. The two add to a third mechanism that we previously documented whereby CD47 on myelin ligates SIRPα on macrophages and microglia, triggering SIRPα-dependent phagocytosis inhibition in phagocytes. Thus, CD47 plays multiple inhibitory roles that combined impede myelin debris clearance, leading to delayed recovery from PNI. Similar inhibitory roles may hinder recovery from other pathologies in which repair depends on efficient phagocytosis (e.g., SCI and MS).
Amplification of LTRs of Extrachromosomal Linear DNAs (ALE-seq) Identifies Two Active Oryco LTR Retrotransposons in the Rice Cultivar Dongjin
Authors: Koo Hyunjin , Kim Soomin , Park Hyun-Seung , Lee Sang-Ji , Paek Nam-Chon , Cho Jungnam , Yang Tae-Jin
Published: January 2022

BackgroundLong terminal repeat retrotransposons (LTR-RTs) make up a considerable portion of plant genomes. New insertions of these active LTR-RTs modify gene structures and functions and play an important role in genome evolution. Therefore, identifying active forms of LTR-RTs could uncover the effects of these elements in plants.ResultsTo identify active LTR-RTs in rice (Oryza sativa), we characterized 1,783 intact LTR-RTs in the rice reference genome. Extrachromosomal linear DNA (eclDNA) forms during LTR-RT replication; therefore, we amplified LTRs of eclDNA (ALE)-seq to uncover the current transpositional potential of the LTR-RTs in callus of the Korean rice variety Dongjin. Tos17 was discovered in callus of the reference rice variety Nipponbare, and we identified two active LTR-RTs belonging to the Oryco family on chromosomes 6 and 9 in Dongjin callus. Each Oryco family member has paired LTRs with identical sequences and internal domain regions. Comparison of the two LTR-RTs revealed 97% sequence identity in their internal domains and 65% sequence identity in their LTRs. ConclusionsWe identified two active LTR-RTs in the callus of Korean rice variety Dongjin using ALE-seq. These two putatively active Oryco LTR-RT family members could be used to expand our knowledge of retrotransposition mechanisms and the effects of LTR-RTs on the rice genome.
Secondary Attack Rates, Transmission, Incubation and Serial Interval Periods of first SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant cases in a northern region of Spain.
Authors: Águila-Mejía Javier Del , Wallmann Reinhard , Calvo-Montes Jorge , Rodríguez-Lozano Jesús , Valle-Madrazo Trinidad , Aginagalde-Llorente Adrian
Published: January 2022

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (BA.1/B.1.1.529) quickly spread during December 2021 in Cantabria, a northern region of Spain. In total 622 cases were studied, and 1.420 close contacted were individually contact-traced and followed up. Secondary Attack Rates (SAR) and Transmission, Incubation and Serial Interval periods were estimated and compared with Delta cases. Greater transmission was found (Omicron SAR 39% vs 26%) with an increased tendency to asymptomatic or early infectiousness.
Unmet Need for Family Planning Among Married Women in Sub-Sahara Africa: A Meta-Analysis of DHS Data (1995 – 2020)
Authors: Phiri Million , Odimegwu Clifford , Kalinda Chester
Published: January 2022

Background: Closing the gap of unmet needs for family planning (FP) in sub-Saharan Africa remains critical in improving maternal and child health outcomes. Determining the prevalence of unmet needs for family planning among married women in the reproductive age is vital for designing effective sexual reproductive health interventions and programmes. Here, we use nationally representative data drawn from sub-Saharan countries to estimate and examine heterogeneity of unmet needs for family planning among currently married women of reproductive age. Methods: This study used secondary data from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) conducted between January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2020 from 37 countries in sub-Saharan African. An Inverse Heterogeneity model (IVhet) in MetaXL application was used to estimate country and sub-regional level pooled estimates and confidence intervals of unmet needs for FP in SSA. Results:The overall prevalence of unmet need for family planning among married women of reproductive age in the sub-region for the period under study was22.9% (95% CI: 20.9–25.0). The prevalence varied across countries from 10% (95% CI: 10–11%) in Zimbabwe to 38% (95% CI: 35–40) and 38 (95% CI: 37–39) (I2 = 99.8% and p-value <0.0001) in Sao Tome and Principe and Angola, respectively. Unmet needs due to limiting ranged from 6%; (95% CI: 3–9) in Central Africa to 9%; (95% CI: 8–11) in East Africa. On the other hand, the prevalence of unmet needs due to spacing was highest in Central Africa (Prev: 18; 95% CI: 16–21) and lowest in Southern Africa (Prev: 12%; 95% CI: 8–16). Our study indicates that there was no publication bias because the Luis Furuya-Kanamori index (0.79) was within the symmetry range of -1 and +1. Conclusion: The prevalence of unmet need for FP remains high in sub-Saharan Africa suggesting the need for health policymakers to consider re-evaluating the current SRH policies and programmes with the view of redesigning the present successful strategies to address the problem.
Glycemic Control Using Mobile-based Intervention in Patients with Diabetes Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass – Study Protocol for A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Song Yangwu , Nan Yifeng , Feng Wei
Published: January 2022

Background
Applying technology through the use of the Internet and mobile phones can help provide education and trained peer support for patients with diabetes after coronary artery bypass (CABG). We are conducting randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of mobile-based coaching intervention in improving risk-factor control and secondary prevention in patients with diabetes after CABG.
Methods
The Glycemic control Using miniprogram-based Intervention in patients with Diabetes undergoing coronary artery bypass to promote self-management (GUIDE ME) Study is a multi-center, randomized controlled trial of mobile intervention versus standard treatment with 6 months follow-up conducted in 2 hospitals in China. The interventions are education and reminder system based on Wechat mini-program. Participants in the intervention groups receive 180 videos (including lines) about secondary prevention education for 6 months as well as the standard treatment. Behavioural change techniques, such as prompting barrier identification, motivational skills, goal setting are employed. A total sample size of 820 patients would be adequate for the GUIDE ME study. The primary outcome is the change of glycemic haemoglobin (HbA1c) at 6 months. Secondary outcomes include a change in the proportions of patients achieving HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and medication adherence.
Discussion
This trial is the first to investigate the efficacy of mobile phone Wechat-based video coaching and medication reminder mini-program system to improve self-management in patients with diabetes and coronary heart disease (CHD) after CABG and have the potential to be applied in resource-limited setting across diverse populations. If successful, such mobile intervention could be used and scaled up to improve care for this high-risk group of patients.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials, NCT 04192409. Registered December 10, 2019. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04192409?cond=NCT+04192409&draw=2&rank=1