bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Організаційно-управлінські умови розвитку конфліктологічної компетентності фахівців медичної галузі у професійній взаємодії
Authors: Волченко Євген , Завацький Юрій
Published: June 2021

У статті розкрито організаційно-управлінські умови розвитку конфліктологічної компетентності фахівців медичної галузі у професійній взаємодії.Серед особливо значущих організаційно-управлінських умов, що сприяють розвитку конфліктологічної компетентності фахівців медичної галузі у професійній взаємодії, виокремлено вивірену кадрову політику, високий авторитет керівника, наявність високої організаційної культури, як системи свідомих і несвідомих уявлень, цінностей, правил, заборон, традицій, що розділяються всіма членами колективу, престиж діяльності та організації, сприятливий соціально-психологічний клімат. Показано, що предметна неузгодженість у взаємодіях – перша за рангом обставина, що приводить до непродуктивного розгортання конфлікту, в тому числі і в тих випадках, коли він спеціально ініційований. Зіткнення дій, за якими стоїть істотно різна інтерпретація матеріалу, породжує конфлікти, що вимагають спеціальних перетворень у формальних характеристиках і у матеріалі для приведення їх у вирішувальний вигляд. Якщо цього не відбувається, то в результаті подібного конфліктування, зазвичай, спостерігається або ескалація конфліктної напруги з деструктивними наслідками для сторін, або псевдорішення за рахунок удаваного успіху, але неодмінно з подальшим відновленням зіткнень, причому з досить неясними підставами. Такі взаємодії називають «конфліктними монстрами».
Ключові слова: фахівці медичної галузі, конфлікт, конфліктологічна компетентність, умови розвитку конфліктологічної компетентності, професійна взаємодія.
Socio-psychological components of success of personality life choice
Authors: Pobokіna Halina , Zavatska Natalia
Published: June 2021

The article reveals the socio-psychological components of the success of life choices. A multilevel socio-psychological program of optimization of the process of life choice of a person in early adulthood is proposed, which consisted of motivational-diagnostic, correctional-developmental and analytical-monitoring stages using methods and techniques of existential, cognitive, behavioral correction, creative self-therapy and therapy. It is shown that the correctional and developmental work carried out within the program had a positive effect on the semantic sphere of the participants. There is a significant positive dynamics of indicators on the subscales of semantic life orientations, which indicates an increase in understanding of life, the emergence of goals in life, confidence in achieving goals; favorable emotional perception of the life process as a whole. Changes in the semantic sphere of personality in early adulthood had a positive effect on its value sphere, which was expressed, in particular, in increasing the value of achievements, and indicated the growing importance of social recognition, success in life, competence, purposefulness and optimization of life choice. early adulthood.
Key words: personality, life choice, socio-psychological correction, socio-psychological components of success of life choice.
Maintaining behavior and ability to anticipation in youth in social networks
Authors: Zavatska Nataliya , Zavatskyi Vadim
Published: June 2021

The article proposes socio-psychological program for the development of anticipation of personality in terms of life changes, based on the principles of interconnection, continuous variability, dynamic equilibrium, irreversibility, relativity, self-organization, expansion, structuring, situational expediency, and differentiation in correctional development -, socio- and pathogenesis of the subjects.
A significant increase in the level of personal-situational, spatial, general anticipatory ability in groups of young people and youth, increase in their internality of subjective control, general meaningfulness of life, focus on goals and effectiveness of life and the positive impact of these variables on prognostic competence and level of social maturity. According to the results of approbation and implementation of the program, the increase of attachment capacity is determined by its personal-situational and general components; dynamics of semantic systems at the content, structural, value, functional levels; constructive life strategies and internality, as well as the flexibility of coping behavior of the subjects in middle and late adulthood, which helped to increase their psychological well-being.
The correctional and developmental work carried out within the program allowed to increase the level of anticipation ability in persons with manifestations of social maladaptation (according to the considered nosology), which ultimately affected the growth of achievement motivation, activity of life strategies; significant reduction of disintegration between value and accessibility in various spheres of life; multivariate forecasting and planning of events, in particular in the context of life changes, and to improve their social functioning in general.
Key words: personality, mastery behavior, anticipation, social networks.
A simple RP-HPLC method for determination of nitisinone in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Mustafa Zana , Arsova-Sarafinovska Zorica , Shishovska Maya , Grozdanova Aleksandra
Published: June 2021

Nitisinone is a reversible inhibitor of 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase and an active substance in the orphan drug used for the treatment of hereditary tyrosinemia type I, a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in the gene for the enzyme fumarylacetoacetase. The aim of our study was to develop a simple and accurate RP–HPLC method with UV detection for routine determination of nitisinone in commercially available pharmaceutical forms. The chromatographic separation was achieved on a reversed-phase column Purospher STAR® RP–8 end–capped (150 x 4.6 mm i.d., particle size 5 μm), with a mobile phase consisted of a mixture of acetonitrile and water acidified with o-phosphoric acid with pH adjusted to 3.0, 65:35 (V/V), filtered through 0.45μm nylon filter. The flow rate was kept at 1 mL/min. A diode array detector measured the UV absorbance at 272 nm. The injection volume was 10 μL. The method was validated by a determination of system suitability, specificity, linearity, range, accuracy, precision, detection limit and quantitation limit. Then, the method was applied for determination of nitisinon in commercially available capsules. The proposed RP-HPLC method allows a simple, accurate, precise and rapid determination of nitisinone in pharmaceuticals. The advantages of the method include simple sample treatment, good precision (RSD less than 2%) and high recovery (greater than 99%). The method could be recommended for routine analysis in quality control laboratories, in stability studies as well as for the evaluation of potentially counterfeit capsules containing nitisinone.

Key words: Nitisinone; High performance liquid chromatography; Method validation; Hereditary tyrosinemia type I
PANTELEIMON KULISH IN THE FATE AND WORKS OF MYKHAILO STARYTSKYI (APPROACHING THE ISSUE)
Authors: Polishchuk Volodymyr
Published: June 2021

The paper focuses on the relationship of two Ukrainian literature classics of the 19th century Panteleimon Kulish and Mykhailo Starytskyi, the viewpoint of the latter being basic in this research. The study reveals some aspects of biographical and then creative nature that had an impact on the outlook of the younger writer (M. Starytskyi). There were noticeable differences in the characters and temperaments of the two writers. The noble tolerance on the part of M. Starytskyi allowed maintaining a constructive dialogue between colleagues, despite the substantial worldview and historiosophical ‘swings’ of P. Kulish in the 1870s and 80s. As to typological convergences and differences in the field of literature, it is noted that P. Kulish’s “Commoners’ Council” (“Chorna Rada”) had a signifi cant and long-lasting impact on Starytskyi’s outlook and subsequently his prose works (especially fiction). The prophetic potential of Kulish’s novel (commoners’ councils as the causes of ‘ruin’, the destructive nature of the thoughtless spontaneity of the masses, the threat of populism, etc.) was realized in Starytskyi’s writings. The study shows that in different spheres of creative work, both P. Kulish and M. Starytskyi tended to innovations and experiments focused on the best achievements of European literatures. Special attention is paid to the debatable issue of the classics’ priority in ‘breaking the patterns’ of imitating Shevchenko’s manner of verse (based on the judgments of I. Franko, M. Zerov, and Ye. Nakhlik). The author of the paper defends the view of at least simultaneous overcoming the mentioned patterns by P. Kulish and M. Starytskyi. Some analytical comments are given to M. Starytskyi’s judgments about T. Shevchenko, contained in his letters to P. Kulish. The analysis of M. Starytskyi’s works (novels, dramas, some poems) shows that their author did not share the views of the late works by P. Kulish concerning the historical role of the Cossacks and haidamak movement.
Time-Dependent Change of the Digestive Enzyme Activity of Black Sea Salmon (Salmo labrax Pallas, 1814) Fed at Suboptimal Temperature
Authors: ÖZEL Osman Tolga , ERTÜRK GÜRKAN Selin
Published: June 2021

The present study conducted at 10.21±0.27°C water temperature in freshwater recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to observe the temporal variations in the digestive enzyme activities including pepsin, trypsin, amylase and lipase of Black Sea salmon (Salmo labrax). Seventh filial generation (F7) of Black Sea salmon (Salmo labrax) with average initial weights of 69.85±10.08 g were by hand fed three times daily until apparent satiation. At the end of the 75-day trial the samples were dissected that reached a weight of 179.17±31.08 g at 45th minute, 3rd, 6th, 12th, 24th, 36th, 48th, 72nd and 96nd hours post feeding. In all enzyme groups, the third hour after feeding was recorded as the time when the highest levels were observed. However, enzyme activities decreased gradually as the time after feeding was prolonged. In the nutrition studies to be conducted at a suboptimal temperature in RAS, gut sampling of Black Sea salmon can be taken at 3rd hour after feeding. For a better understanding of digestive enzyme activity for this species, however, different sections of the digestive system should be comprehensively monitored including different temperature conditions.
Experimental Investigation of a Novel Formulation of a Cyanoacrylate-Based Adhesive for Self-Healing Concrete Technologies
Authors: De Nardi Cristina , Gardner Diane , Cazzador Giulia , Cristofori Davide , Ronchin Lucio , Vavasori Andrea , Jefferson Tony
Published: June 2021

The selection of an appropriate healing agent is critical to the success of vascular and mini-vascular networks. In self-healing concrete technology, commercially available cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesives have been shown to produce good strength recoveries; however, their rapid curing rate and short shelf-life make them unsuitable for site application. The aim of this study was to develop a modified cyanoacrylate (n-CA) with an extended shelf-life suitable for incorporation in a self-healing system. A series of n-CAs were formed from a commercial Ethyl Cyanoacrylate adhesive mixed with acrylic acid (AA) and nitro-anthraquinone (nAq) in varying ratios. When encapsulated within 3D printed mini-vascular networks (MVNs), the n-CAs remained dormant in liquid form for up to 5 days. The contact angle between the n-CAs and the cement mortar substrate, as measured via the sessile drop technique, decreased significantly with increasing AA content. The mechanical properties (bond strength) and the polymerization hardening of the n-CAs were evaluated over a curing period of 7–21 days, via a series of pull-off tests using cement mortar cubes. The 4:1:02 (CA:AA:nAq) n-CA formulation showed a significant increase in bond strength from 14 to 21 days, with a ceiling value of 2.6 MPa, while the 2:1 (CA:AA) n-CA formulation exhibited a good bond strength after 21 days (1 MPa). Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) conducted on the n-CAs suggested the formation of several new polymeric species, whilst differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) on the pre- and post-printed MVN material confirmed no significant changes in chemistry with no evidence of polymer degradation. Considered together, the experimental results show the potential for different n-CA formulations to act efficiently as a healing agent.
Drug Delivery Systems for Hedgehog Inhibitors in the Treatment of SHH-Medulloblastoma
Authors: Caimano Miriam , Lospinoso Severini Ludovica , Loricchio Elena , Infante Paola , Di Marcotullio Lucia
Published: June 2021

Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly aggressive pediatric tumor of the cerebellum. Hyperactivation of the Hedgehog (HH) pathway is observed in about 30% of all MB diagnoses, thereby bringing out its pharmacological blockade as a promising therapeutic strategy for the clinical management of this malignancy. Two main classes of HH inhibitors have been developed: upstream antagonists of Smoothened (SMO) receptor and downstream inhibitors of GLI transcription factors. Unfortunately, the poor pharmacological properties of many of these molecules have limited their investigation in clinical trials for MB. In this minireview, we focus on the drug delivery systems engineered for SMO and GLI inhibitors as a valuable approach to improve their bioavailability and efficiency to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB), one of the main challenges in the treatment of MB.
Assessment of the Diagnostic Ability of Four Detection Methods Using Three Sample Types of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Yu Fei , Xie Guoliang , Zheng Shufa , Han Dongsheng , Bao Jiaqi , Zhang Dan , Feng Baihuan , Wang Qi , Zou Qianda , Wang Ruonan , Yang Xianzhi , Chen Weizhen , Lou Bin , Chen Yu
Published: June 2021

Background

Viral nucleic acid detection is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, unsuitable sample types and laboratory detection kits/methods lead to misdiagnosis, which delays the prevention and control of the pandemic.

Methods

We compared four nucleic acid detection methods [two kinds of reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCR A: ORF1ab and N testing; RT-PCRB: only ORF1ab testing), reverse transcription recombinase aided amplification (RT-RAA) and droplet digital RT-PCR (dd-RT-PCR)] using 404 samples of 72 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, including oropharyngeal swab (OPS), nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) and saliva after deep cough, to evaluate the best sample type and method for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Results

Among the four methods, dd-RT-PCR exhibited the highest positivity rate (93.0%), followed by RT-PCR B (91.2%) and RT-RAA (91.2%), while the positivity rate of RT-PCR A was only 71.9%. The viral load in OPS [24.90 copies/test (IQR 15.58-129.85)] was significantly lower than that in saliva [292.30 copies/test (IQR 20.20-8628.55)] and NPS [274.40 copies/test (IQR 33.10-2836.45)]. In addition, if OPS samples were tested alone by RT-PCR A, only 21.4% of the COVID-19 patients would be considered positive. The accuracy of all methods reached nearly 100% when saliva and NPS samples from the same patient were tested simultaneously.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection methods should be fully evaluated before use. High-positivity rate methods such as RT-RAA and dd-RT-PCR should be considered when possible. Furthermore, saliva after deep cough and NPS can greatly improve the accuracy of the diagnosis, and testing OPS alone is not recommended.
Risk of Environmental Exposure to H7N9 Influenza Virus via Airborne and Surface Routes in a Live Poultry Market in Hebei, China
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Guo Kangkang , Cui Huan , Chen Ligong , Zhang Chunmao , Wang Xuejing , Li Jiaming , Fu Yingying , Wang Zhongyi , Guo Zhendong , Liu Juxiang , Dong Shishan
Published: June 2021

Environmental transmission of viruses to humans has become an early warning for potential epidemic outbreaks, such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus outbreaks. Recently, an H7N9 virus, A/environment/Hebei/621/2019 (H7N9), was isolated by environmental swabs from a live poultry market in Hebei, China. We found that this isolate could be transmitted by direct contact and aerosol in mammals. More importantly, after 5 passages in mice, the virus acquired two adaptive mutations, PB1-H115Q and B2-E627K, exhibiting increased virulence and aerosol transmissibility. These results suggest that this H7N9 virus might potentially be transmitted between humans through environmental or airborne routes.
Poaching Threatens the Establishment of a Lynx Population, Highlighting the Need for a Centralized Judiciary Approach
Authors: Arlettaz Raphaël , Chapron Guillaume , Kéry Marc , Klaus Elisabeth , Mettaz Stéphane , Roder Stefanie , Vignali Sergio , Zimmermann Fridolin , Braunisch Veronika
Published: June 2021

Illegal hunting represents a major threat to the conservation of predators, but its impact remains difficult to assess as there are strong incentives to conceal this criminal activity. Attributing declines of carnivores to poaching is therefore an important conservation challenge. We present a case study of the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in the Swiss Alps (Valais) where the current distribution range is smaller than in the recent past and population density is by ≥80% lower than in the adjacent Swiss Prealps. We tested four hypotheses to explain this lower density: (1) a too low density of camera-traps deployed for lynx surveys in Valais compared to the Prealps (methodological artifact); (2) less favorable environmental conditions around the camera-trap sites; (3) lower densities of the main prey; and (4) poaching. We estimated lynx and ungulate densities and environmental conditions at trail camera sites and could clearly reject the first three hypotheses because: (1) the survey protocol was similarly effective; (2) environmental conditions around the trapping sites in Valais were even more favorable for lynx detection than in the Prealps; and (3) prey supply was even larger in Valais. Concerning hypothesis 4, we discovered a network of illegal lynx traps (neck snares) in the main immigration corridor into Valais from the thriving adjacent lynx population in the Prealps, suggesting intense local poaching. Our findings substantiate the suspicions of long-lasting lynx poaching as a threat to the establishment and survival of the Valais population. The fact that instances of poaching were publicly known since 1995 but remained unabated for at least two decades, until the first conviction occurred, questions the commitment of local authorities to address this case of wildlife crime. Our study demonstrates the need for inquiries about poaching of top predators to be carried out at the highest levels of jurisdiction to avoid any risk of collusion between law enforcement agents and poachers.
Elderly Male With Cardiovascular-Related Comorbidities Has a Higher Rate of Fatal Outcomes: A Retrospective Study in 602 Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Zhan Xiao-Yong , Li Liang , Hu Yuhai , Li Qiang , Kong Huimin , Ng Margaret H. L. , Chen Chun , He Yulong , Huang Bihui , Yang Mo
Published: June 2021

Elderly with comorbidities have shown a higher rate of fatal outcomes when suffering coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, a delineation of clinical significances of hematologic indices and underlying comorbidities in the progression and outcome of COVID-19 remains undefined. Six hundred two COVID-19 patients with established clinical outcomes (discharged or deceased) from Hankou Hospital of Wuhan, China between January 14, 2020 and February 29, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Of the 602 patients with COVID-19, 539 were discharged and 63 died in the hospital. The deceased group showed higher leukocyte and neutrophil counts but lower lymphocyte and platelet counts. Longer activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT), as well as higher D-dimer and C-reactive protein levels, were found in non-survivors. Our observations suggest that these parameters could serve as potential predictors for the fatal outcome and in the discharged group. A higher neutrophil count and D-dimer level but lower lymphocyte were associated with a longer duration of hospitalization. A multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that higher neutrophil count, prolonged PT, and low lymphocyte count were risk factors for patients with COVID-19. Also, we found an association of lower lymphocyte count and higher C-reactive protein levels with the elderly group and those with cardiovascular-related comorbidities. The significantly different hematologic profiles between survivors and non-survivors support that distinct hematologic signatures in COVID-19 patients will dictate different outcomes as a prognostic marker for recovery or fatality. Lymphopenia and aggressive inflammatory response might be major causes for fatal outcomes in the elderly male and especially those with cardiovascular-related comorbidities.
Debris Flow Assessment in the Gaizi-Bulunkou Section of Karakoram Highway
Authors: Jiang Ning , Su Fenghuan , Li Yong , Guo Xiaojun , Zhang Jun , Liu Xuemei
Published: June 2021

Highways frequently run through the flow and accumulation areas of debris flow gullies and thus are susceptible to debris flow hazards. Assessing debris flows along highways can provide references for highway planners and debris flow control, emergency management. However, the existing assessment methods mostly neglect the essential information of the flow paths and spreading areas of debris flows at the regional scale. Taking the Gaizi Village-Bulunkou Township Section (hereinafter referred to as “the Gaizi-Bulunkou Section”) of the Karakoram highway as the study area, this research introduces a simple empirical model (the Flow-R model) and establishes a method for assessing the debris flow hazard level. The main processes include data collection, inventory of former events, calculating source areas and spreading probability, verification of the model, extraction of hazard assessment factors, and calculation of debris flow hazard levels. The results show that: 1) the accuracy, sensitivity, and positive predictive power of the Flow-R model in simulating the debris flow spreading probability of the study area were 81.87, 70.80 and 72.70%, respectively. The errors mainly occurred in the debris flow fans. 2) The calculation results make it possible to divide debris flow hazard levels into four levels. N5, N19, and N28 gullies had the highest hazard level during the study period. 3) In the Gaizi-Bulunkou Section of the Karakoram highway, during the study period, the highways with very high, high, medium, and low hazards were 4.33, 0.62, 1.41, and 1.68 km in length, respectively.
Digit and Ungual Morphology Suggest Adaptations for Scansoriality in the Late Carboniferous Eureptile Anthracodromeus longipes
Authors: Mann Arjan , Dudgeon Thomas W. , Henrici Amy C. , Berman David S , Pierce Stephanie E.
Published: June 2021

A new skeleton of the exceedingly rare, late Carboniferous eureptileAnthracodromeus longipes(Carroll and Baird, 1972), reveals the presence of a reduced phalangeal count in the manus and pedes and uniquely recurved unguals. With these data, we quantitatively evaluate the locomotor ecology ofAnthracodromeususing morphometric analyses of the phalangeal proportions, ungual curvature, and ungual shape. Our findings indicate that the anatomy ofAnthracodromeuslikely facilitated scansorial clinging to some degreeviadistally recurved unguals and increased surface area of the large manus and pes. This suggests thatAnthracodromeuswas among the earliest amniotes to show climbing abilities, pushing back the origins of scansoriality by at least 17 million years. It further suggests that scansoriality arose soon after the origin of amniotes, allowing them to exploit a wide range of novel terrestrial niches.
Numerical Simulation Research on Well Pattern Optimization in High–Dip Angle Coal Seams: A Case of Baiyanghe Block
Authors: Wang Hongli , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Suian , Huang Hongxing , Wang Jun
Published: June 2021

The Baiyanghe block in Fukang, Xinjiang, China, is rich in coalbed methane (CBM) resources, and several pilot experimental wells have yielded high production. Due to the high dip angle (35–55°) of the coal seam in this area, the lack of understanding of the geological characteristics, the physical properties of coal, and gas–water migration law lead to immature development techniques and poor overall development benefits. We first conducted desorption and adsorption tests on low-rank coal of this area and found residual gas in the coal. We established a coalbed methane desorption model suitable for this area by modifying the isotherm adsorption model. Next, by analyzing the influence of the gas–water gravity differentiation in the high–dip angle coal seam and the shallow fired coalbed methane characteristics in this area, we discovered the leakage of CBM from the shallow exposed area of the coal seam. Given the particular physical property of coal and gas–water migration characteristics in this area, we optimized the well pattern: (i) the U-shaped along-dip horizontal well group in coal seams is the main production well for gas production with a spacing distance of 312 m; (ii) a multistage fracturing well drilled in the floor of coal is for water production; and (iii) vertical wells with a spacing distance of 156 m in the shallow area is to capture CBM leakage. Using numerical simulation and net present value (NPV) economics models, we optimized the well pattern details. Applying our CBM desorption model, the numerical simulator can improve the accuracy of the low-rank coalbed methane productivity forecast. The optimization results demonstrated the following: 1) the cumulative gas production of single U-shaped well increased by 89% with the optimal well spacing, 2) the cumulative gas production of the well group increased by 87.54% after adding the floor staged horizontal well, and 3) the amount of CBM leakage decrease by 67.59%.
Performance Over Enjoyment? Effect of Game-Based Learning on Learning Outcome and Flow Experience
Authors: Chan Kevin , Wan Kelvin , King Vivian
Published: June 2021

Competitiveness in serious games and game-based learning contexts, have been suggested to be associated with variations in flow experience pertaining from game experience. Evidence from the game-based learning literature suggested that game-based learning in general enhances learning outcomes, and applicable to learning psychology at the undergraduate level. Yet the magnitude of such effect remains mixed from empirical evidence. The current study examines whether game-based learning, in competitive and non-competitive game format, would lead to differentiated gains on learning outcomes, perceived flow experience from game-based learning, and their interaction. We wish to test whether competitive and non-competitive formats of game-based learning could be characterized with different configurations of game flow experience that encapsulate the game-based learning experience, as well as the extent to which such predominant game flow experience would correlate with observed learning outcomes from featured game-based learning conditions. Effect of game-based learning was tested with an 2 × 2 experimental design. Participating learners (n= 142) were randomly assigned into either one out of four experimental conditions based on a 2 × 2 block design with two independent variables, competitiveness of game-based learning (competitive vs. non-competitive), and format of game-based learning (group vs. individual). Participating Learners in each of the conditions were assessed on learning outcomes related to the subject matters intended for the game-based learning artefacts. Results on learning outcomes revealed a significant main effect of competitiveness of game-based learning was observed, but not for format nor interaction effect. Main effect of format of game-based learning when learning in groups was observed from another two-way ANOVA analysis in a finite set of eGameFlow constructs including feedback, autonomy, goal clarity, and social interaction. Interaction effects between competitiveness of game-based learning and format was observed in autonomy and goal clarity constructs. Results from this study suggested that competitiveness and group format does not necessarily warrant improvement on learning outcomes in the game-based learning context. Main effects on cognitive flow dimensions align with the performance orientation among Asian learners. Further research would shed light on identifying levels of optimal gamified elements while assuring improvement on intended learning outcomes in the Asian tertiary education context.
The Multi-Therapeutic Role of MSCs in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Wang Yi , Shan Su-Kang , Guo Bei , Li Fuxingzi , Zheng Ming-Hui , Lei Li-Min , Xu Qiu-Shuang , Ullah Muhammad Hasnain Ehsan , Xu Feng , Lin Xiao , Yuan Ling-Qing
Published: June 2021

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common diabetes mellitus (DM) microvascular complications, which always ends with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Up to now, as the treatment of DN in clinic is still complicated, ESRD has become the main cause of death in diabetic patients. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with multi-differentiation potential and paracrine function, have attracted considerable attention in cell therapy recently. Increasing studies concerning the mechanisms and therapeutic effect of MSCs in DN emerged. This review summarizes several mechanisms of MSCs, especially MSCs derived exosomes in DN therapy, including hyperglycemia regulation, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrosis, pro-angiogenesis, and renal function protection. We also emphasize the limitation of MSCs application in the clinic and the enhanced therapeutic role of pre-treated MSCs in the DN therapy. This review provides balanced and impartial views for MSC therapy as a promising strategy in diabetic kidney disease amelioration.
Temporal-Spatial Evolution and Driving Factors of the Green Total Factor Productivity of China’s Central Plains Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Wang Fengting , Li Ruichao , Yu Chang , Xiong Lichun , Chang Yuan
Published: June 2021

As China’s largest urban agglomeration with rapid growth of economy and population, the development of the Central Plains Urban Agglomeration (CPUA) has been severely restricted by environmental problems. Thus, the green development performance of the CPUA is worth studying. This study used the panel data of 29 cities in the CPUA from 2003 to 2018 based on the Slacks-based Measure and Global Malmquist–Luenberger index to measure the green total factor productivity (GTFP) and its decomposition index of each city. A spatial econometric model was developed to explore the factors affecting the GTFP of the CPUA. The results show that the GTFP of the CPUA had an upward trend in 2003–2018, but the productivity level was still low. There were significant spillover effect in the GTFP among different cities of the CPUA. The results of the spatial measurement model show that technological progress, industrial structure and solid waste environmental regulationhave a significant positive spillover effect on the GTFP. The, fiscal expenditure, and informatization level also have positive impacts on the GTFP. In the future, local government should provide technical and financial support for the development of green industries in the CPUA, and accelerate the construction of environmental protection infrastructures.
Descriptive Spatial Analysis of Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) Distribution and Mapping HEC Hotspots in Keonjhar Forest Division, India
Authors: Tripathy Bismay Ranjan , Liu Xuehua , Songer Melissa , Kumar Lalit , Kaliraj Senipandi , Chatterjee Nilanjana Das , Wickramasinghe W. M. S. , Mahanta Kirti Kumar
Published: June 2021

Escalation of human-elephant conflict (HEC) in India threatens its Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) population and victimizes local communities. India supports 60% of the total Asian elephant population in the world. Understanding HEC spatial patterns will ensure targeted mitigation efforts and efficient resource allocation to high-risk regions. This study deals with the spatial aspects of HEC in Keonjhar forest division, where 345 people were killed and 5,145 hectares of croplands were destroyed by elephant attacks during 2001–2018. We classified the data into three temporal phases (HEC1: 2001–2006, HEC2: 2007–2012, and HEC3: 2013–2018), in order to (1) derive spatial patterns of HEC; (2) identify the hotspots of HEC and its different types along with the number of people living in the high-risk zones; and (3) assess the temporal change in the spatial risk of HEC. Significantly dense clusters of HEC were identified in Keonjhar and Ghatgaon forest ranges throughout the 18 years, whereas Champua forest range became a prominent hotspot since HEC2. The number of people under HEC risk escalated from 14,724 during HEC1 and 34,288 in HEC2, to 65,444 people during HEC3. Crop damage was the most frequent form of HEC in the study area followed by house damage and loss of human lives. Risk mapping of HEC types and high priority regions that are vulnerable to HEC, provides a contextual background for researchers, policy makers and managers.
Breeding Phenology of Red-Shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus) Is Related to Snow Cover and Air Temperature During the Pre-Laying Period
Authors: Dykstra Cheryl R. , Hays Jeffrey L. , Simon Melinda M. , Wegman Ann R.
Published: June 2021

Global climate change has advanced the breeding phenology of many avian species. However, raptors’ breeding phenologies may not respond in the same way to the factors that influence passerine breeding dates. We studied reproduction of suburban and rural Red-shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus) in southern Ohio, United States, from 1997 to 2020. Mean hatching dates for 786 broods were 24 April [Julian day: 114.1 ± 0.3 d (SE)] for suburban birds and 25 April (Julian day: 114.5 ± 0.4) for rural birds. Egg-laying date averages approximately 33 days before hatching date, or about the third week of March. We used mixed models to test which factors influenced nestling hatching dates from 1997 to 2020. The best model included year, days of snow cover during the pre-laying period (February–March), and mean March temperature, with days of snow cover having the largest effect. Hatching date (in Julian days) was positively related to snow cover and negatively related to air temperature, i.e., young hatched earlier in years with fewer days of snow cover and in warmer years). Young also hatched slightly later as the study progressed. Overall, neither mean hatching date nor any of the weather variables showed a significant trend over the course of the study. Previously published reports indicate that many raptor species do not exhibit advancing hatching dates, and breeding phenologies often reflect local weather conditions. The complexity and diversity of raptor responses to climate change underscore the importance of long-term studies of raptors at multiple locations.
Physicochemical Properties as Driver of Odonata Diversity in Oil Palm Waterways
Authors: Ishak Muhamad , Norhisham Ahmad R. , Thomas Stephen M. , Nurhidayu Siti , Ghazali Amal , Azhar Badrul
Published: June 2021

Large-scale oil palm agriculture has caused deforestation in the tropics, but also degrades stream water quality and reduces aquatic biodiversity. Though the outcomes of industrial-scale oil palm plantations for biodiversity have been explored extensively, the consequences of small-scale oil palm agriculture for freshwater macroinvertebrate fauna are poorly understood. Here, we explored the impacts of small-scale oil palm agriculture on aerial adult Odonata (the dragonflies and damselflies), which, due to their inherent sensitivity to habitat degradation, represent useful indicators of wider ecosystem health. We surveyed riparian corridors of man-made waterways in natural habitats converted into agricultural lands in both peat swamp and mangrove forest, comprising a total of 60 sampling units across a region of Peninsular Malaysia where such small-scale agricultural practices are widespread. We hypothesized that physicochemical water quality of oil palm waterways together with riparian vegetation influence Odonata species richness and composition. Our results revealed that Odonata species richness increased with dissolved oxygen, water temperature and vegetation cover, but decreased with water level, pH, and total dissolved solids. Species composition was influenced by both dissolved oxygen and pH. The present study provides valuable insights into the effects of small-scale oil palm agriculture for water quality of associated aquatic habitats, and subsequent responses of adult Odonata. Therefore, smallholders should reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers to improve the conservation value of oil palm waterways for both Odonata and aquatic fauna more generally, in order to be certified as biodiversity-friendly agriculture.
Integrating Transcriptome-Wide Association Study and mRNA Expression Profiling Identifies Novel Genes Associated With Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Ma Mei , Li Peilin , Liu Li , Cheng Shiqiang , Cheng Bolun , Liang Chu Jun , Tan Sijia , Li Wenyu , Wen Yan , Guo Xiong , Wu Cuiyan
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study aims to identify novel candidate genes associated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

Methods

A transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) was performed by integrating the genome-wide association study dataset of osteonecrosis (ON) in the UK Biobank with pre-computed mRNA expression reference weights of muscle skeleton (MS) and blood. The ON-associated genes identified by TWAS were further subjected to gene ontology (GO) analysis by the DAVID tool. Finally, a trans-omics comparative analysis of TWAS and genome-wide mRNA expression profiling was conducted to identify the common genes and the GO terms shared by both DNA-level TWAS and mRNA-level expression profile for ONFH.

Results

TWAS totally identified 564 genes that were with PTWAS value <0.05 for MS and blood, such as CBX1 (PTWAS = 0.0001 for MS), SRPK2 (PTWAS = 0.0002 for blood), and MYO5A (PTWAS = 0.0005 for blood). After comparing the genes detected by TWAS with the differentially expressed genes identified by mRNA expression profiling, we detected 59 overlapped genes, such as STEAP4 [PTWAS = 0.0270, FC (fold change)mRNA = 7.03], RABEP1 (PTWAS = 0.010, FCmRNA = 2.22), and MORC3 (PTWAS = 0.0053, FCmRNA = 2.92). The GO analysis of TWAS-identified genes discovered 53 GO terms for ON. Further comparing the GO results of TWAS and mRNA expression profiling identified four overlapped GO terms, including cysteine-type endopeptidase activity (PTWAS = 0.0006, PmRNA = 0.0227), extracellular space (PTWAS = 0.0342, PmRNA = 0.0012), protein binding (PTWAS = 0.0112, PmRNA = 0.0106), and ATP binding (PTWAS = 0.0464, PmRNA = 0.0033).

Conclusion

Several ONFH-associated genes and GO terms were identified by integrating TWAS and mRNA expression profiling. It provides novel clues to reveal the pathogenesis of ONFH.
Innovative and Promising Strategies to Enhance Effectiveness of Immunotherapy for CNS Tumors: Where Are We?
Authors: Quintarelli Concetta , Camera Antonio , Ciccone Roselia , Alessi Iside , Del Bufalo Francesca , Carai Andrea , Del Baldo Giada , Mastronuzzi Angela , De Angelis Biagio
Published: June 2021

Although there are several immunotherapy approaches for the treatment of Central Nervous System (CNS) tumors under evaluation, currently none of these approaches have received approval from the regulatory agencies. CNS tumors, especially glioblastomas, are tumors characterized by highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, limiting the possibility of effectively eliciting an immune response. Moreover, the peculiar anatomic location of these tumors poses relevant challenges in terms of safety, since uncontrolled hyper inflammation could lead to cerebral edema and cranial hypertension. The most promising strategies of immunotherapy in neuro-oncology consist of the use of autologous T cells redirected against tumor cells through chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) constructs or genetically modified T-cell receptors. Trials based on native or genetically engineered oncolytic viruses and on vaccination with tumor-associated antigen peptides are also under evaluation. Despite some sporadic complete remissions achieved in clinical trials, the outcome of patients with CNS tumors treated with different immunotherapeutic approaches remains poor. Based on the lessons learned from these unsatisfactory experiences, novel immune-therapy approaches aimed at overcoming the profound immunosuppressive microenvironment of these diseases are bringing new hope to reach the cure for CNS tumors.
Diversity of Dominant Peripheral T Cell Receptor Clone and Soluble Immune Checkpoint Proteins Associated With Clinical Outcomes Following Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment in Advanced Cancers
Authors: Li Ye , Wang Jiaqian , Wu Liangliang , Li Xiaoting , Zhang Xiaoyun , Zhang Guoqing , Xu Shengqiang , Sun Shengjie , Jiao Shunchang
Published: June 2021

Dynamic changes of the peripheral T cell receptor (TCR) and soluble receptors and ligands (sRLs) have the potential to be used as biomarkers to monitor the evolution of the immune system in tumor patients undergoing immunotherapy. These functional biomarkers could be used to predict immune response to treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and to provide high-value information on the immune function status of cancer patients, thereby helping physicians to make effective clinical decisions. We collected paired pre- and post-treatment peripheral blood samples from 31 solid tumor patients treated with ICIs. TCR and sRL status were investigated using next-generation sequencing and magnetic bead panels. We found that the diversity of the dominant TCR clone at baseline was correlated with durable clinical benefit in patients receiving single-agent treatment. The D50 index, the diversity from the cumulative 50% of the total complementary determinant region 3, was obtained during treatment. A significant difference in progression-free survival was demonstrated between the D50 high and D50 low groups. This result was validated in an independent cohort. A signature including soluble immune checkpoint proteins (sICPs) was identified. Upregulation of the signature during treatment was correlated with durable clinical benefit. All these results indicate that a novel biomarker based on peripheral TCR and sICPs has the potential to be used in prognostic prediction and for rapid determination of therapeutic outcomes in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Ligilactobacillus salivarius Strains Isolated From the Porcine Gut Modulate Innate Immune Responses in Epithelial Cells and Improve Protection Against Intestinal Viral-Bacterial Superinfection
Authors: Indo Yuhki , Kitahara Shugo , Tomokiyo Mikado , Araki Shota , Islam Md. Aminul , Zhou Binghui , Albarracin Leonardo , Miyazaki Ayako , Ikeda-Ohtsubo Wakako , Nochi Tomonori , Takenouchi Takato , Uenishi Hirohide , Aso Hisashi , Takahashi Hideki , Kurata Shoichiro , Villena Julio , Kitazawa Haruki
Published: June 2021

Previously, we constructed a library of Ligilactobacillus salivarius strains from the intestine of wakame-fed pigs and reported a strain-dependent capacity to modulate IFN-β expression in porcine intestinal epithelial (PIE) cells. In this work, we further characterized the immunomodulatory activities of L. salivarius strains from wakame-fed pigs by evaluating their ability to modulate TLR3- and TLR4-mediated innate immune responses in PIE cells. Two strains with a remarkable immunomodulatory potential were selected: L. salivarius FFIG35 and FFIG58. Both strains improved IFN-β, IFN-λ and antiviral factors expression in PIE cells after TLR3 activation, which correlated with an enhanced resistance to rotavirus infection. Moreover, a model of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC)/rotavirus superinfection in PIE cells was developed. Cells were more susceptible to rotavirus infection when the challenge occurred in conjunction with ETEC compared to the virus alone. However, L. salivarius FFIG35 and FFIG58 maintained their ability to enhance IFN-β, IFN-λ and antiviral factors expression in PIE cells, and to reduce rotavirus replication in the context of superinfection. We also demonstrated that FFIG35 and FFIG58 strains regulated the immune response of PIE cells to rotavirus challenge or ETEC/rotavirus superinfection through the modulation of negative regulators of the TLR signaling pathway. In vivo studies performed in mice models confirmed the ability of L. salivarius FFIG58 to beneficially modulate the innate immune response and protect against ETEC infection. The results of this work contribute to the understanding of beneficial lactobacilli interactions with epithelial cells and allow us to hypothesize that the FFIG35 or FFIG58 strains could be used for the development of highly efficient functional feed to improve immune health status and reduce the severity of intestinal infections and superinfections in weaned piglets.
Pregnancy Induces an Immunological Memory Characterized by Maternal Immune Alterations Through Specific Genes Methylation
Authors: Huang Xiaobo , Wang Liling , Zhao Sijia , Liu Hong , Chen Si , Wu Li , Liu Liping , Ding Jiahui , Yang Hengwen , Maxwell Anthony , Yin Zhinan , Mor Gil , Liao Aihua
Published: June 2021

During pregnancy, the maternal immune system undergoes major adaptive modifications that are necessary for the acceptance and protection of the fetus. It has been postulated that these modifications are temporary and limited to the time of pregnancy. Growing evidence suggests that pregnancy has a long-term impact on maternal health, especially among women with pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia (PE). In addition, the presence of multiple immunological-associated changes in women that remain long after delivery has been reported. To explain these long-term modifications, we hypothesized that pregnancy induces long-term immunological memory with effects on maternal well-being. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the immunological phenotype of circulating immune cells in women at least 1 year after a normal pregnancy and after pregnancy complicated by PE. Using multiparameter flow cytometry (FCM) and whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), we demonstrate that pregnancy has a long-term effect on the maternal immune cell populations and that this effect differs between normal pregnancy and pregnancy complicated by PE; furthermore, these modifications are due to changes in the maternal methylation status of genes that are associated with T cell and NK cell differentiation and function. We propose the existence of an “immunological memory of pregnancy (IMOP)” as an evolutionary advantage for the success of future pregnancies and the proper adaptation to the microchimeric status established during pregnancy. Our findings demonstrate that the type of immune cell populations modified during pregnancy may have an impact on subsequent pregnancy and future maternal health.