bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the chess prototypes of Vladimir Nabokov's novel The Defense
Authors:   Moscow State University, Moscow, Ledenev Aleksandr V. , Felkon Den ,   Shenzhen MSU-BIT University: Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Published: October 2021

The article is devoted to discussing the likely prototypes of the figure of Luzhin - the protagonist of V. Nabokov's novel The Defense. Studying the biographical and chess contexts, analyzing the plot components of the novel related to the game, and taking into account the psychological aspects of the early XX century chess history, the authors prove that the versions of the main character's prototypes presented in previous studies of Nabokov's works are controversial. Among these prototypes are the chess players famous at different periods of the past, sharing only one thing with Nabokov's hero – a mental disorder at the end of his life. The authors of the article present and summarize new facts, not considered before, which are somehow reflected in the text of the novel, and the circumstances of the chess history and the world around it taking place at that time. This data became the basis for a new version that one of the prototypes of the protagonist's “chess impersonation” in the novel The Defense could be the Russian (and later Danish – by new citizenship) chess grandmaster Alexander Nimtsovich, whose life path crossed Nabokov's more than once. The famous chess opening “The Nimtsovich Defense” finds compositional and motif parallels in the corresponding scenes of the novel, and the narrator's reflection (close to the hero's reflection) on the specifics of playing chess is quite consistent with Grandmaster Nimtsovich's chess ideas, summarized by him in his book My System (1925). One of Nimzowitsch's biggest successes was winning the tournament in Karlovy Vary (Czechoslovakia) in July-August 1929 – at the very time when Nabokov was busy working on the text of his novel The Defense.
Mining the Vavilov wheat diversity panel for new sources of adult plant resistance to stripe rust
Authors: Jambuthenne Dilani , Riaz Adnan , Athiyannan Naveenkumar , Alahmad Samir , Ng Wei Ling , Ziems Laura , Afanasenko Olga , Periyannan Sambasivam , Aitken Elizabeth , Platz Greg , Godwin Ian , Voss-Fels Kai , Dinglasan Eric , Hickey Lee
Published: October 2021

Wheat stripe rust (YR) caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), poses a significant threat to global food security. Resistance genes commonly found in many wheat varieties have been rendered ineffective due to the rapid evolution of the pathogen. To identify novel sources of adult plant resistance (APR), 292 accessions from the N.I. Vavilov Institute of Plant Genetic Resources, Saint Petersburg, Russia, were screened for known APR genes (i.e. Yr18, Yr29, Yr46, Yr33, Yr39 and Yr59) using linked polymerase chain reaction (PCR) molecular markers. Accessions were evaluated against Pst (pathotype 134 E16 A+ Yr17+Yr27) at seedling and adult plant stages across multiple years (2014, 2015 and 2016) in Australia. Phenotypic analyses identified 132 lines that potentially carry novel sources of APR to YR. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified 68 significant marker-trait associations (P<0.001) for YR resistance, representing 47 independent quantitative trait loci (QTL) regions. Fourteen genomic regions overlapped with previously reported Yr genes, including Yr29, Yr56, Yr5, Yr43, Yr57, Yr30, Yr46, Yr47, Yr35, Yr36, Yrxy1, Yr59, Yr52 and YrYL. In total, seven QTL (positioned on chromosomes 1D, 2A, 3A, 3D, 5D, 7B and 7D) did not collocate with previously reported genes or QTLs, indicating the presence of promising novel resistance factors. Overall, the Vavilov diversity panel provides a rich source of new alleles which could be used to broaden the genetic bases of YR resistance in modern wheat varieties.
Effects of exogenous melatonin on plant growth, root hormones and photosynthetic characteristics of trifoliate orange subjected to salt stress
Authors: Hu Ceng-hong , Zheng Ying , Sun Rong-hui , Zheng Jian-hao , Li Mei , zhang dejian
Published: October 2021

Soil salinity has negative effects on crop growth and production, and melatonin (MT) plays an important role in regulating the salt stress of plants. However, it is not clear whether exogenous melatonin mitigates the negative effect on citrus plants subjected to salt stress. This study was to explore the response of exogenous melatonin (0, 50, 100, 150 µmol/L) on plant growth, root hormone levels and photosynthetic system of trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) seedlings exposed to 0, 150 mmol/L NaCl for 4 weeks. The 150 mmol/L NaCl treatment significantly increased root zeatin riboside and gibberellin levels, while dramatically inhibited plant height, root auxin level, leaf photosynthesis and fluorescence indexes of seedlings. However, melatonin seedlings represented greater growth performance and dry matter quality under non-salt and salt stress. Furthermore, the effects of NaCl stress on the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, maximum photochemical efficiency, PSII effective photon yied, photochemical quenching and other indicators of seedlings leaves were effectively alleviated and the damage of NaCl stress was also reduced when seedlings were treated with melatonin. It suggests that exogenous melatonin had positive effects on enhancing salt tolerance of trifoliate orange seedlings, which is involved in greater plant growth, higher auxin level, and stronger photosynthetic physiology, and 100 µmol/L melatonin concentration has the best result.
How the Rain-Gauge Threshold Affects the Precipitation Frequency and Amount
Authors: Camuffo Dario , Becherini Francesca , Valle Antonio della
Published: October 2021

After an overview of the problems concerning the early rain-gauges and their thresholds, a study is made to investigate the impact that the instrumental threshold of a rain-gauge has on the distribution of precipitation frequency and amount. Some tests have been performed using two historic datasets, i.e. the observations by Giovanni Poleni in Padua from 1725 to 1760, and Jacopo Bartolomeo Beccari in Bologna from 1723 to 1765, and two modern rain-gauge records, i.e. taken at the Botanical Garden, Padua, and at the Hydrographic, Bologna, from 1990 to 2019. The tests consisted in applying a filter to the datasets to simulate the action of an instrumental threshold. The result is that the threshold has an enormous impact on the frequency, and a smaller one on the total amount. The study included how the threshold affects the percentile distribution of precipitation amounts. The results provide indications to correct and interpret early records, and to test their quality. Moreover, they are useful in the analysis of long time series composed by datasets derived from different instruments for climate studies.
Geochemical Processes Leading to Variation of Soil Development on Calcareous Toposequence in Semiarid Fields
Authors: Alaboz Pelin , Şenol Hüseyin , Dengiz Orhan
Published: October 2021

This study was carried out in soils formed in different physiographic units (summit(PI), shoulder(PII), backslope(PIII), footslope(PIV)) on the limestone parent material under the same climatic conditions.The study was assessed clay mineralogy, weathering indices, mass loss/gain states, and physicochemical properties of different profiles with limestone parent material. It is concluded that smectite clay mineral is dominant in the footslope unit (PIV), with differences in clay mineralogies due to physiographic change. The highest aggregate stability (63.74%) was determined in the in situ physiographic summit unit. The soil's field capacity and wilting point contents showed statistically significant changes with the increase in smectite minerals and clay in the PIV profile on the footslope unit (p <0.01). A positive (0.506; p <0.05) correlation was found between the variability in physiographic units (from Summit to footslope) and the available water content (AWC). Bulk density and porosity characteristics varied depending on the particle size distribution and the type of land use. The soils formed in shoulder and backslope units, which are in the Entisol soil class, are classified as "not decomposed" according to the Chemical Alteration Index (CIA), Chemical Weathering Index (CIW), and Plagioclase Alteration Index (PIA) values. In the Inceptisol and Vertisol ordo, it was determined that the basic cations were leached in the PI and PIV profiles in the summit and footslope units, and the separation was more advanced. The highest losses from the soil were obtained from the backslope, while the gains were obtained from the footslope physiographic unit. As a result of this study, it has been revealed that soil formation in the summit and bottom lands (footslope) is more effective than other physiographic units, and physicochemical properties are affected by these processes.
Differential mRNA and Long Noncoding RNA Expression Profiles in Pediatric B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Patients
Authors: Xia Jing , Wang Mengjie , Zhu Yi , Bu Chaozhi , Li Tianyu
Published: October 2021

BackgroundLong non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts longer than 200 nt that are involved in the pathogenesis and development of various cancers including B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B–ALL). To determine whether lncRNAs are involved in B-ALL, we analyzed the expression profile of lncRNAs and mRNAs in B-ALL.MethodsWe performed RNA sequencing of 10 non-leukemic blood disease donors and 10 B-ALL patients for Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Interactions among mRNAs were predicted using the STRING database. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to verify the RNA-seq data of lncRNAs and mRNAs. Potential functions of subtype-specific lncRNAs were determined by using coexpression-based analysis on distally (trans-pattern) located protein-coding genes.ResultsA total of 1813 differentially expressed genes (DETs) and 2203 lncRNAs were identified. Moreover, 10 dysregulated lncRNAs and 10 mRNAs were randomly selected, and further assessed by RT-qPCR in vitro. Go and KEGG analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed mRNAs were most closely associated with myeloid leukocyte activation and in transcriptional misregulation in cancer, respectively. In addition, co-expression analysis demonstrated that these lncRNAs, including MSTRG.27994.3, MSTRG.21740.1, ENST00000456341, MSTRG.14224.1 and MSTRG.20153.1, may mediate the pathogenesis and development of B-ALL via lncRNA-mRNA network interactions.ConclusionsThese results showed that several mRNAs and lncRNAs are aberrantly expressed in the bone marrow of B-ALL patients and play potential roles in B-ALL development, and be useful for diagnostic and/or prognostic purposes in pediatric B–ALL.
GDF11 Alleviates Neointimal Hyperplasia in Rat Artery Injury Model Via Regulating Endothelial NLRP3-Inflammasome Activation and Rapid Re-Endothelialization
Authors: Li Lei , Gao Yan , Liu Zhenchuan , Dong Chenglai , Wang Wenli , Wu Kaiqin , Gu Shaorui , Zhou Yong-Xin
Published: October 2021

Background
Neointimal hyperplasia induced by interventional surgery can lead to progressive obliteration of the vascular lumen, which has become a major factor affecting prognosis. It is commonly accepted that the rate of re-endothelialization is inversely related to neointima formation. Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a secreted protein with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Recent reports indicate that GDF11 can improve vascular remodeling by maintaining differentiated phenotypes for vascular smooth muscle cells. However, it is not known whether and how GDF11 acts to promote re-endothelialization in vascular injury. The present study was performed to clarify the influence of GDF11 on re-endothelialization after vascular injury.
Methods
An adult Sprague-Dawley rat model of common-carotid-artery balloon-dilatation injury was surgically established. A recombinant adenovirus carrying GDF11 was delivered into the common carotid artery to overexpress GDF11. Vascular re-endothelialization and neointima formation were carried out on harvested carotid arteries through histomolecular analysis. CCK8 analysis, LDH release and western blotting were performed to investigate the effects of GDF11 on endothelial NLRP3-inflammasome activation and relevant signaling pathways in vitro.
Results
GDF11 significantly enhanced re-endothelialization and reduced neointima formation in rats with balloon-dilatation injury by suppressing the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Endoplasmic-reticulum stress (ER stress) inhibitor, 4PBA administration attenuated endothelial NLRP3-inflammasome activation induced by Lysophosphatidylcholine. Besides, up-regulation of LOX1 expression involved elevated endoplasmic-reticulum stress, and could result in endothelial NLRP3-inflammasome activation. Moreover, GDF11 significantly inhibited NLRP3-inflammasome-mediated endothelial cell pyroptosis through the negative regulation of LOX-1-dependent ER stress.
Conclusions
We conclude that GDF11 improves re-endothelialization and can attenuate vascular remodeling by reducing endothelial NLRP3-inflammasome activation. These findings shed light on new treatment strategies to promote re-endothelialization based on GDF11 as a future target.
Occurrence and Risk Assessment of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Surface Water and Sediment of Nahoon River Estuary, South Africa
Authors: Ohoro Chinemerem , Adeniji Abiodun , Semerjian Lucy , Okoh Anthony , Okoh Omobola
Published: October 2021

The concentrations, potential sources, and compositional profile of PBDEs in the surface water and sediment of Nahoon Estuary, East London, South Africa, were investigated with solid-phase extraction and ultra-sonication, respectively, followed by gas-chromatography-electron capture detection. The seasonal range of the contaminants’ concentrations in water and sediment samples in spring season were ƩPBDE 329 ± 48.3 ng/L (25.32–785 ng/L) and ƩPBDE 4.19 ± 0.35 ng/g dw (1.91–6.57 ng/g), but ƩPBDE 62.1 ± 1.50 ng/L (30.1–110 ng/L) and ƩPBDE 65.4 ± 15.9 ng/g dw (1.98–235 ng/g) in summer, respectively. NH1 (first sampling point) was the most contaminated site with PBDE in the Estuary. The potential source of pollution is attributed to the stormwater runoff from a creek emptying directly into the Estuary. This study's dominant PBDE congener is BDE- 17, ranging from below detection limit to 247 ng/L and 0.14–32.1 ng/g in water and sediment samples, respectively. Most commonly detected at all the sites were BDE- 17, 47, 66, and 100. Most BDE- 153 and 183 are found in sediment in agreement with the fact that higher brominated congeners of PBDE adsorb to solid materials. There was no correlation between the congeners and organic carbon and organic matter. However, the human health risk assessment conducted revealed that the PBDE concentration detected in the estuary pose low eco-toxicological risk. Nevertheless, constant monitoring should be ensured to see that the river remains safe for all the users, as it serves as a form of recreation to the public and a catchment to some neighbourhoods around the river.
Nonfixation of Mesh In Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Nagata Shigeyuki , Orita Hiroyuki , Korenaga Daisuke
Published: October 2021

Background: In terms of the need for mesh fixation in total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP), overseas data revealed no significant difference in the recurrence rate between patients with and without fixation. Moreover, there is no information available on this treatment outcome from Japan. We aimed to analyze the outcomes of nonfixation TEP with those of fixation at our institute.Methods: In May 2016, the nonfixation TEP technique was launched. The fixation group (165 patients) was compared to the nonfixation group (195 patients). Bilateral, large, and impaction cases were eliminated from the corrective comparison, and the outcomes for the fixation group (80 patients) and the non-fixation group (111 patients) were compared.Results: One patient in the nonfixation group experienced recurrence. It was a hernia case with a large orifice. In the fixation group, seroma was more prevalent. There was no recurrence and no significance in surgical complications in the correction comparison. The nonfixation group had a shorter operation time and stayed in the hospital for a shorter period after surgery.Conclusions: The nonfixation TEP was deemed adequate, at least for typical hernia cases.
Diagnosing Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) In UK NHS ICUs: The Perceived Value And Role of A Novel Optical Technology
Authors: Jones William Stephen , Suklan Jana , Winter Amanda , Green Kile , Craven Tom , Bruce Annya , Mair Joanne , Dhaliwal Kev , Walsh Tim , Simpson John , Graziadio Sara , Allen Joy
Published: October 2021

Background: Diagnosing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in an intensive care unit (ICU) is a complex process. Our aim was to collect, evaluate and represent the information relating to current clinical practice for the diagnosis of VAP in UK NHS ICUs, and to explore the potential value and role of a novel diagnostic for VAP, which uses optical molecular alveoscopy to visualise the alveolar space. Methods: Qualitative study performing semi-structured interviews with clinical experts. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed. A flow diagram of the VAP patient pathway was elicited and validated with the expert interviewees. 14 clinicians were interviewed from a range of UK NHS hospitals: 12 ICU consultants, 1 professor of respiratory medicine and 1 professor of critical care. Results: Five themes were identified, relating to: [1] current practice for the diagnosis of VAP; [2] current clinical need in VAP diagnostics; [3] the potential value and role of the technology; [4] the barriers to adoption; and [5] the evidence requirements for the technology, to help facilitate successful adoption. These themes indicated that diagnosis of VAP is extremely difficult, as is the decision to stop antibiotic treatment. The analysis revealed that there is a clinical need for a diagnostic that provides an accurate and timely diagnosis of the causative pathogen, without the long delays associated with return of culture results, and which is not dangerous to the patient. It was determined that the technology would satisfy important aspects of this clinical need for diagnosing VAP (and pneumonia, more generally), but would require further evidence on safety and efficacy in the patient population to facilitate adoption. Conclusions: Care pathway analysis performed in this study was deemed accurate and representative of current practice for diagnosing VAP in a UK ICU as determined by relevant clinical experts, and explored the value and role of a novel diagnostic, which uses optical technology, and could streamline the diagnostic pathway for VAP and other pneumonias.
The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Early Childhood Development: A Qualitative Context Analysis in Iran
Authors: Atashbahar Omolbanin , Sari Ali Akbari , Takian Amirhossein , Olyaeemanesh Alireza , Mohamadi Efat , Barakati Sayyed Hamed
Published: October 2021

Background: Social determinants have a significant impact on children’s development and their abilities and capacities, especially in early childhood. They can bring about inequity in living conditions of children and, as a result, lead to differences in various dimensions of development including the social, psychological, cognitive and emotional aspects. We aimed to identify and analyze the social determinants of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in Iran and provide policy implications to improve this social context. Methods: In a qualitative study, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 40 experts from October 2017 to June 2018. Based on Leichter’s (1979) framework and using the deductive approach, two independent researchers conducted the data analysis. We used MAXQDA.11 software for data management. Results: We identified 8 themes and 22 subthemes in 4 analytical categories relevant to the social determinants of ECD including: Structural factors (economic factors: 6 subthemes, political factors: 2 subthemes), Socio-cultural factors (the socio-cultural setting of society: 6 subthemes, the socio-cultural setting of family: 4 subthemes), Environmental or International factors (the role of international organizations: 1 subtheme, political sanctions: 1 subtheme), and Situational factors (genetic factors: 1 subtheme, the phenomenon of air pollution: 1 subtheme). We could identify 24 policy recommendations to improve the situation. Conclusion: With regard to the challenges related to the social determinants of ECD, such as increasing social harms, decreasing social capital, lack of public awareness, increasing socioeconomic inequities, economic instability, which can lead to the abuse and neglect of children or their unfair growth and development, the following policy-making options are proposed: focusing on equity from early years in policies and programs, creating integration between policies and programs from different sectors, prioritizing children in the welfare umbrella, empowering families, raising community awareness, and expanding services and support for families, specially the deprived families subject to special subsidies.
Blood neuroexosomal mitochondrial proteins predict Alzheimer's disease in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chi Hai-Yan , Yao Ran , Sun Chao , Leng Bing , Shen Teng-Qun , Wang Tong , Zhang Shu-Kun , Li Meng-Fan , Yang Ya-Chao , Sun Hai-rong , Li Zhen-Guang , Zhang Jinbiao
Published: October 2021

Background
There is accumulating evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with the contribution of diabetes to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Neuronal mitochondrial proteins found in plasma neuronal-derived exosomes(NDEs) at levels that reflect those in brain neurons. Here, we tested the performance of mitochondrial proteins in plasma NDEs to predict cognitive decline and brain injury in diabetic participants.
Methods
The type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) participants in the study included 41 cognitively normal controls, 97 individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (68 individuals with stable MCI; 29 individuals with progressive MCI) and 36 patients with AD dementia. Plasma neuroexosomal proteins were measured by ELISA kits. Spearman’s correlation was used to test associations between mitochondrial proteins and other core biomarkers of AD in plasma neuronal-derived exosomes. Diagnostic accuracy (the area under the curve (AUC)) for progressive MCI and AD was obtained for mitochondrial proteins using receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses. The associations of mitochondrial proteins with the conversion from MCI to AD were assessed by Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.
Results
Plasma neuroexosomal NADH ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit S3 (NDUFS3) and succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit B (SDHB) levels were significantly lower in T2DM patients with AD dementia (232.7 ± 63.4, 1360.7 ± 328.5, pg/ml) and progressive MCI (274.4 ± 78.6, 1536.7 ± 342.8, pg/ml) than in cognitively normal subjects (333.9 ± 96.7, 2050.4 ± 628.9, pg/ml) (P < 0.001 for both groups). We also found that plasma neuroexosomal NDUFS3 and SDHB levels were lower in progressive MCI (274.4 ± 78.6 pg/ml, 1536.7 ± 342.8 pg/ml) than in stable MCI (319.9 ± 109.8 pg/ml, P < 0.05; 1824.7 ± 606.4 pg/ml, P < 0.05) subjects. Both plasma neuroexosomal NDUFS3 and SDHB offer diagnostic utility for AD. Low plasma neuroexosomal SDHB levels significantly predicted conversion from MCI to AD. In addition, low mitochondrial proteins levels were associated with the rate of hippocampal and gray matter atrophy, reduced AD signature cortical thickness in progressive MCI over the follow-up period.
Conclusions
These data suggest that both plasma neuroexosomal NDUFS3 and SDHB are already increased at the early clinical stage of AD, and indicate the promise of plasma neuroexosomal mitochondrial proteins as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for the earliest symptomatic stage of AD in diabetic participants .
Ankle Joint Pressure Change Before and After Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis in Varus and Valgus Malalignment of the Tibia
Authors: Hu Mu , Xu Xiangyang , Mei Jiong
Published: October 2021

Background: The compensation mechanism of subtalar joint in ankle with varus or valgus deformity is controversial and not well established. This biomechanical study aims to investigate how subtalar joint arthrodesis will affect the ankle joint pressure in varus and valgus malalignment of the tibia. Methods: 8 fresh-frozen human cadaver legs were tested in this study. A custom-made fixture was utilized and a total of 600N was applied to simulate weight-bearing. Intra-articular sensors (TeckScan) were inserted in the ankle joint to demonstrate the ankle joint pressure. conditions include: neutral, 5º, 10º, 15º and 20º varus, 5º, 10º, 15º and 20º valgus.Results: After the fusion of the subtalar joint, when the tibia is gradually inverted, the inside pressure of the ankle joint gradually increases, and the pressure on the outside of the ankle joint gradually decreases. When the tibia is gradually eversion, the pressure on the outside of the ankle joint gradually increases, and the inside of the ankle joint gradually decreases.Conclusions: After the subtalar joint is fused, the compensatory activity of the subtalar joint disappears, and the regulation of the pressure in the ankle joint will be lost.
Abnormal Bile Acid-Microbiota Crosstalk Promotes the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Shen Rui , Ke Lixin , Li Qiao , Dang Xi , Shen Shunli , Shen Jianming , Li Shaoqiang , Liang Lijian , Peng Baogang , Kuang Ming , Ma Yi , Yang Zhonghan , Hua Yunpeng
Published: October 2021

Gut microbiota and microbe-derived metabolites are involved in the development of HCC. Bile acids (BAs) are the most important gut microbiota-modulated endogenous signaling molecules. First, we tested serum bile acid levels and gut microbiome compositions in patients with HCC, chemical -induced HCC mouse models (DEN-HCC mice) and mouse orthotopic implanted liver tumor models with vancomycin treatment (Vancomycin-treated mice ). Then, we screened an important kind of HCC-related BAs, and verified its effect on the growth and migration of HCC cells. We found that the remarkably decreasing percentages of serum secondary BAs in the total bile acids of patients and DEN-HCC mice, especially, conjugated deoxycholic acids (DCA). The relative abundance of the bile salt hydrolase (BSH)-rich bacteria (Bifidobacteriales, Lactobacillales, Bacteroidales, and Clostridiales) was decreased in the feces of patients and DEN-HCC mice. Then, in Vancomycin-treated mice, vancomycin treatment induced a reduction in the BSH-rich bacteria and promoted the growth of liver tumors. Similarly, the percentage of conjugated DCA after vancomycin treatment was significantly declined. We used a kind of conjugated DCA, Glyco-deoxycholic acid (GDCA), to treat human SUN-449 and HepG2 HCC cell lines, and found that GDCA remarkably inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells. We conclude that the remarkably decreasing percentages of serum conjugated DCA may be closely associated with HCC, which may be induced by the reducing gut BSH-rich bacteria. The mechanisms may be correlated with conjugated DCA directly inhibiting the growth and migration of HCC cells.
Correlation of Clinical Sepsis Definitions with Microbiological Characteristics in Patients Admitted Through a Sepsis Alert System; A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yu David , Unger David , Unge Christian , Parke Åsa , Sundén-Cullberg Jonas , Strålin Kristoffer , Özenci Volkan
Published: October 2021

Background: Sepsis was recently redefined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. With this redefinition (Sepsis-3), clinical and microbiological characteristics of patients with sepsis may differ from the patients fulfilling the previous described definition (Sepsis-2). Purpose: To describe differences in clinical and microbiological characteristics of sepsis episodes between Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2. The secondary aim was to compare blood culture outcomes between episodes fulfilling Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 criteria, respectively. Methods: A prospective study design was used to include patients presenting with clinically suspected sepsis in the emergency department. Six blood culture bottles were collected from each patient. Blood cultures were described as having clinically relevant growth, contaminant growth, or no growth. Clinical and laboratory data were collected from medical records and the laboratory information system. Results: The analysis included 549 episodes. There were 387/549 (70.5%) Sepsis-3 and 443/549 (80.7%) Sepsis-2 episodes. In total, 369/549 (67.2%) episodes fulfilled both Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 criteria. Blood cultures were positive for clinically relevant growth in 140/387 (36.1%) and 155/443 (35.0%) episodes in Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2, respectively. Other clinical and microbiological characteristics did not differ between Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2. Conclusions: A high proportion of patients included through a sepsis alert system fulfilled both Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 criteria. The performance of blood cultures in detection of microorganisms was poor and were similar in Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 patients.
CD36 Identifies a Subpopulation of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells with Enhanced Osteogenic Ability.
Authors: Camilleri Emily , Riester Scott M. , Gustafson Michael , Garces Catalina Galeano , Paradise Christopher R. , Glusevic Martina , Bulur Peggy , Dudakovic Amel , Dietz Allan B. , Wijnen Andre J van
Published: October 2021

Background

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AMSCs) represent attractive cellular therapeutics for treatment of various diseases including osteoarthritis and bone degeneration. Preparation and characterization of AMSCs show donor-to-donor variability that indicating that AMSCs are heterogeneous populations of cells. Cell surface markers to identify MSCs, such as CD44, CD90, and CD105, are relatively invariable among AMSCs and do not reflect the heterogeneity of AMSC populations. CD36, a multifunctional surface receptor associated with transport of oxidized low-density lipoproteins and fatty acids, is also expressed by AMSCs but this marker is considerable more variable. Therefore, we assessed whether CD36 can be used to identify subpopulations in AMSCs.
Methods

Clinical-grade AMSCs were isolated from patient fat biopsies, cultured under xenobiotic-free conditions using human platelet lysate and sorted by flow cytometry or magnetic cell sorting to characterize CD36 expression. CD36 enriched, CD36 depleted, and unsorted AMSCs were characterized using cellular and molecular techniques including proliferation, multilineage potential, RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics, metabolomics, and sensitivity to the CD36 inhibitor sulfosuccinimidyl oleate (SSO).
Results

CD36 exhibited biphasic expression on AMSCs grown in human platelet lysate. Enrichment of CD36+ AMSCs showed that CD36+ expression identifies a stable subpopulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed enhancement of calcium transporter genes. Osteogenic differentiation of CD36+ enriched, CD36+ depleted, and unsorted AMSCs showed strikingly enhanced osteogenic calcium deposition and enhanced expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) and osteoprotegrin (TNFRSF11B) in the CD36+ population. While lipid droplets were not altered, adipogenic differentiation showed upregulated gene expression of key adipogenic markers, including fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) and Adiponectin (ADIPOQ), with CD36+ enrichment. Treatment of CD36+ enriched AMSCs with the SSO showed reduced calcium deposition whereas CD36+ depleted AMSCs were unaffected.
Conclusions

CD36 exhibits variable expression amongst AMSCs. CD36+ enriched AMSCs are a stable subpopulation with enhanced osteogenic potential that linked to CD36 receptor function. These results may further refine production and clinical application of AMSC cellular therapeutics. Furthermore, the enhanced osteogenic potential of CD36+ AMSCs may be considered for therapeutic regeneration of bone.
How do Healthcare Practitioners use Incident data to Improve Patient Safety in Japan? A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kodate Naonori , Taneda Ken’ichiro , Yumoto Akiyo , Kawakami Nana
Published: October 2021

BackgroundPatient incident reporting systems have been widely used for ensuring safety and improving quality in care settings in many countries. However, little is known about the way in which incident data are used by frontline clinical staff. Furthermore, while the use of a systems perspective has been reported as an effective way of learning from incident data in a multidisciplinary team, the level of adaptability of this perspective to a different cultural context has not been widely explored. The primary aim of the study, therefore, was to investigate how healthcare practitioners in Japan perceive the reporting systems and utilize a systems perspective in learning from incident data in acute care and mental health settings. Methods A non-experimental, descriptive and exploratory research design was adopted with the following two data-collection methods: 1) Sixty-one semi-structured interviews with frontline staff in two hospitals; and 2) Non-participatory observations of thirty-seven regular incident review meetings. The two hospitals in the Greater Tokyo area which were invited to take part were: 1) a not-for-profit, privately-run, acute care hospital with approximately 500 beds; and 2) a publicly-run mental health hospital with 200 beds.Results While the majority of staff acknowledge the positive impacts of the reporting systems on safety, the observation data found that little consideration was given to systems aspects during formal meetings. The meetings were primarily a place for the exchange of practical information, as opposed to in-depth discussions regarding causes of incidents and corrective measures. Learning from incident data was influenced by four factors: professional boundaries and the gendered dimension; dealing with a psychological burden; leadership and educational approach; and compatibility of patient safety with patient-centered care.ConclusionsHealthcare organizations are highly complex, comprising of many professional boundaries and risk perceptions, and various communication styles. In order to establish an optimum method of individual and organizational learning and effective safety management, a fine balance has to be struck between respect for professional expertise in a local team and centralized safety oversight with a strong focus on systems. Further research needs to examine culturally-sensitive organizational and professional dynamics, including leader-follower relationships and the impact of resource constraints.
COVID-19 Public Transit Precautions: Trade-offs between Risk Reduction and Costs
Authors: Hanig Lily , Harper Corey , Nock Destenie
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread globally; however, the risk of contracting COVID-19 on public transportation and its role in local spread remains unclear. Essential workers who are transit-dependent tend to be from low-income and minority populations and are faced with the risk of contracting COVID-19 each time they take a bus. We investigate bus ridership from April to September of 2020 and the risk of contracting COVID-19 on the bus by combining a transportation data analysis and an epidemiological model of COVID-19 risk. Our results show that 4% of county cases were contracted on the bus or from a bus-rider (first degree), disproportionately (52%) from trips that were over their mandated capacity. The risk of contracting COVID-19 on the bus was low, but socially worth mitigating. A cost-benefit analysis reveals that dispatching autonomous vehicles or deploying longer buses for passed-by passengers rather than allowing crowding have the lowest societal costs.
Hyaluronic Acid-modified Redox-sensitive Hybrid Nanocomplex Loading With siRNA for Non-small-cell Lung Carcinoma Therapy
Authors: Chen Daoyuan , Zhang Peng , Li Minghui , Li Congcong , Lu Xiaoyan , Sun Yiying , Sun Kaoxiang
Published: October 2021

A novel hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified hybrid nanocomplex HA-SeSe-COOH/siR-93C@PAMAM which could efficiently deliver siRNA into tumor cells via a redox-mediated intracellular disassembly, was constructed for enhance antitumor efficacy. Thereinto, siR-93 (siRNA) and positive PAMAM were firstly mixed into the electrostatic nano-intermediate, and then diselenide bond (-SeSe-)-modified HA was coved to shield excessive positive charges. This hybrid nanocomplex displayed uniform dynamic sizes, high stability, and controlled zeta potentials and narrow PDI distribution. Moreover, the -SeSe- linkage displayed GSH/ROS dual responsive properties, improving intracellular trafficking of siRNA. In vitro assays in A549 cell line presented that HA-SeSe-COOH/siR-93C@PAMAM has low cytotoxicity, rapid lysosomal escape and significant transfection efficiency; besides, an efficient proliferation inhibition ability and enhanced apoptosis. Furthermore, in animal studies, this negative-surfaced hybrid nanocomplex showed a prolonged circulation in blood and improved inhibition of tumor growth. All these results verified our hypothesis in this study that diselenide bonds-modified HA could promote not only stability and safety of nanoparticles in vivo but also intracellular behavior of siRNA via redox-dual sensitive properties; furthermore, this hybrid nanocomplex provided a visible potential approach for siRNA delivery in antitumor field.
Solidaritas Yesus Terhadap Kaum Miskin: Studi Hermeneutik Lukas 21:1–4 dengan Perspektif Subaltern Gayatri Spivak
Authors: Kantohe Angelly Christisya
Published: October 2021

AbstractThis article aims to offer a hospitable hermeneutic to marginal groups by addressing humanitarian topics especially in relation to poverty issues. Biblical narratives pay much attention to the poor who are so ignored and silenced that their existence in public life is denied. Using Spivak’s subaltern theory of hermeneutics, this article reads Luke 21:1–4 from the perspective of the minority. Subaltern hermeneutics invites readers to embrace the spirit of Jesus in fighting against oppression. Jesus’ empathy toward the minority calls contemporary readers to represent the voices of the silenced and the oppressed. The goal is that both the oppressors and the oppressed are healed to celebrate life together. 

AbstrakTulisan ini bertujuan untuk menawarkan sebuah pendekatan hermeneutik yang ramah terhadap kelompok-kelompok marginal sehingga dapat dihidupi dan dipakai untuk menyikapi persoalan-persoalan kemanusiaan khususnya berkaitan dengan isu kemiskinan. Narasi-narasi Alkitab menyatakan betapa kaum miskin sering kali terabaikan dan terbungkam sehingga suaranya tidak dapat didengar bahkan eksistensinya luput dari perhatian masyarakat. Menggunakan teori hermeneutik subaltern dari Spivak, artikel ini membaca teks Lukas 21:1–4 dari sudut pandang kaum minoritas. Hermeneutik subaltern dipakai untuk membaca teks tersebut guna mengajak para pembaca untuk meneladani semangat Yesus dalam memerangi bentuk-bentuk penindasan. Perilaku keberpihakan Yesus terhadap kaum minoritas mengundang para pembaca untuk turut melibatkan diri sebagai perwakilan suara-suara kaum tertindas yang terbungkam. Tindakan tersebut membuka ruang bagi setiap orang, baik para pelaku penindasan maupun korban-korban yang tertindas, untuk memperoleh pemulihan dan merayakan kehidupan bersama.
User Perception Analysis of Online Learning Platform “Zenius” During the Coronavirus Pandemic Using Text Mining Techniques
Authors: Arminditya Fajri Akbar  , Harry Budi Santoso  , Putra Panca O. Hadi , Yudhoatmojo Satrio Bhaskoro
Published: October 2021

Availability of access to online learning platforms is expected to support online learning activities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. There are several issues experienced by students in online learning activities. These issues are related to Internet access, learning content, and learning evaluation. Online learning platforms are indispensable to be able to provide good learning resources that are easily accessible to students. This study aims to explore data reviews on Google Play Store to perceive the priority of service improvements that need to be carried out by online learning platform providers. Topic modeling and sentiment analysis are applied to extract useful information based on user sentiment towards the topics discussed in the application review. The result of topic analysis shows that topic trends in user reviews are about Live Class, Tryout, Subject Matter, User Account, Tutorial Video, and Free Learning Access. Meanwhile, the result of NRS assessment identified aspects that need to be a priority for improving online learning platform services. These aspects are in the Tryout and User Account sections. On the other hand, the aspect of Free Learning Access received the highest NRS. Users are helped by having free access to all learning content during learning from home activities.
FEATURES OF MUTUAL PERCEPTION OF RUSSIA AND KAZAKHSTAN
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, MARIYA A. SAVELYEVA , ZARU D. UTEKOVA ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: October 2021

This article contains the comparative study of mutual perception of Russia and Kazakhstan. The authors set themselves the goal of identifying the key features of the mutual perception of countries on grounds of theoretical and methodological methods of political and psychological approach. The research procedure consisted of conducting focused interviews and drawing tests among residents of the studied countries. For the analysis of political perception, qualitative methods with quantitative elements were used. Specifics of images of Russia and Kazakhstan in the minds of citizens of both countries were identified, taking into account the rational and unconscious levels of perception. Also, the authors, relying on the problematic approach, identified the key political and psychological factors that affect the process of mutual socio-political perception. The results of the political and psychological analysis demonstrate that there are grounds in the minds of the inhabitants of Russia and Kazakhstan for the further development of union relations. However, the Russian respondents' perception of Kazakhstan at an irrational level is extremely vague, emotionally neutral, and does not differ in deep affection. There is a negativization of the image of Russia in some of its structural elements (image of power, foreign policy image). The identified trends may soon become a threat to the development of international processes in the Caspian region.
FEATURES OF THE INTERACTION OF POLITICAL, ETHNIC AND RELIGIOUS FACTORS IN THE NORTH CAUCASUS
Authors:   Dagestan State University, MAGOMEDEMIN M. GADZHIEV
Published: October 2021

The article analyzes the dialectic of the three most important factors of identification of a person and society - political, ethnic and confessional. They are always inextricably intertwined, but they interact especially closely in the North Caucasus. Attention is drawn to the inadmissibility of underestimating any of them and to the harmfulness of various extremes in the action. It is proved, that the influence of religion on ethno-social processes in certain spheres is manifested with varying degrees of intensity. Religious influence is least noticeable in the financial and economic sphere, since it mainly operates universal and national mechanisms. Some ways of optimizing confessional ethnic and social interaction at the present stage are listed. Among the objective and subjective reasons, that hinder the harmonization of interaction between ethnic, political and religious processes in the region, the lack of stable democratic traditions and civil society institutions is indicated; social and property polarization among various social strata, which leads to the practical absence of the “middle” class, which is a reliable support of society and the state; deformations in the social structure, primarily associated which a significant decrease in the share of the Russian and Russian-speaking population.
“RABBIT HOLES” OF CARNIVAL POLITICAL CULTURE OF THE MODERN COLLECTIVE WEST ELITES
Authors:   Astrakhan State University, PAUL L. KARABUSHENKO
Published: October 2021

In the modern world, the political reality begins to amaze the outside observer and analyst more and more with its extreme unpredictability, illogicality, and inconsistency. Politicians fight with each other in the virtual space, competing and striving for power with some kind of “windmills”. Moreover, the more tension in their struggle, the more the carnival political culture is clearly visible from all sides. The growth of carnival nature in political structures is accompanied by the loss of professionalism (competencies) by the elites, a sense of proportion, and responsibility. The political world that we now observe in Western communities is a cracking-down on all classical forms of politics, is a detraction of the dignity of the entire political class and the public as a whole. Finally, it is disrespect for academic political science whose laws are not just violated, but despised and ridiculed. One involuntarily creates the impression that all politics has fallen into some kind of fabulous “rabbit hole” described by Lewis Carroll in “Alice in Wonderland”. This entrance opens the world of otherworldly political reality, turned inside out and with meanings and values turned up to their complete perversion. But in this world there are many politicians and they even feel good in it. The analysis and description of this being is the subject matter of this work.
THE PROBLEM OF AUTONOMY IN THE 1920S AND THE ROLE OF THE SOUTHERN RUSSIAN NATIONAL INTELLIGENTSIA IN ITS SOLUTION
Authors:   Kalmyk State University named after B.B. Gorodovikov, CLARA F. LIDGHEEVA , TSAGAN V. OLCHANOVA ,   Kalmyk State University named after B.B. Gorodovikov, VYACHESLAV N. AVLIEV ,   Kalmyk State University named after B.B. Gorodovikov
Published: October 2021

The article studies the problems of the autonomy of the national regions of the south of Russia, examines various regional projects and, based on the actual material, identifies the features of solving this issue, as well as the interaction of central and local authorities. Special attention is paid to the role of the intelligentsia in the formation of national statehood. The aim of the work is to consider various approaches, primarily of the intelligentsia, to autonomy through comparative analysis in the national regions of the southern Russian region. While writing the paper the authors carried out historio-graphical and source analysis on the stated problem, and used various documents of legislative and executive authorities. The methodological basis was a comprehensive approach to the study of the problems of autonomy in the national regions of southern Russia. In particular, the historical-narrative method was used to reconstruct the historical past. To identify various projects on self-determination, the comparative-historical method and the method of retrospective analysis were used. The study made it possible to conclude that the problem of self-determination of peoples was closely related to the formation of the new state, and, accordingly, it was needed to preserve the integrity of the country. In national regions, the intelligentsia offered various options in its solution. But the comparative analysis demonstrates that national territories remained part of Russia and became part of the new Soviet state. The Southern Russian intelligentsia, which played a leading role in the process of autonomy, eventually became the regional political elite.