bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Практики взаимодействия с архитектурным наследием: деревянные храмы на Русском Севере и волонтерские проекты
Authors: Кузнецова Е.А.
Published: March 2024

В статье рассматриваются современные проекты по сохранению архитектурных памятников на Русском Севере как одна из форм взаимодействия людей с наследием и социальной памятью. Вместе с исторической ретроспективой такого явления как «волонтеры наследия», на конкретных кейсах анализируются некоторые особенности бытования подобных проектов в российском контексте в наши дни. С опорой на данные, собранные в период с 2019 по 2022 гг., когда автор участвовала в инициативах этого типа в качестве волонтера, а также на материалы, полученные в ходе этнографических экспедиций с 2016 по 2022 гг. на Русский Север, на примере починов по восстановлению деревянных храмов, типичных для этого региона, изучается взаимодействие волонтеров, местного населения и объектов архитектурного наследия. Автора интересуют социальные процессы, возникающие во время этого взаимодействия. В рамках исследования предпринимается попытка деконструировать процесс, в ходе которого полуразрушенный объект начинает восприниматься как сакральное и архитектурное наследие, и анализируются сопутствующие этому практики.
The article considers modern architecture conservation projects in the Russian North as one of the ways to interact with the heritage and the social memory. The paper analyzes some of such projects in the modern Russian context and provides a historical retrospective of the phenomenon of the “volunteers of heritage”. Based on the materials collected by author since 2019 to 2022, when she participated in such initiatives as a volunteer, and the materials collected in 2016-2019 on the author’s mainly ethnographic expeditions to the Russian North, the interactions of volunteers, local residents and the objects of heritage — the wooden churches - in the Russian North are studied. Moreover, the author attempts to deconstruct the process of «creating» and “reinventing” heritage and the accompanying practices. Alongside, the article raises a number of questions for further research.
Религиозные представления племен — носителей кобанской археологической культуры в свете данных петроглифики
Authors: Ильясов И.М.
Published: March 2024

В статье рассматриваются религиозные представления древних племен — носителей кобанской археологической культуры на основе интерпретации семантики древнейших символов, которые нашли отражение в бронзовой пластике и петроглифике той эпохи. Богатейший археологический материал (бытовые поселения, могильники, большое количество статуэток людей и животных, культовых предметов) дает возможность объективной реконструкции духовной культуры населения эпохи поздней бронзы и раннего железа. В работе вводится в научный оборот петроглиф у селения Харкарой, расположенного на юго-востоке Чечни. Его копия была в несколько искаженном виде впервые опубликована В. П. Кобычевым в 1973 г. без пояснений и комментариев. Между тем, петроглиф позволяет значительно расширить представления о духовной культуре кобанских племен. Петроглиф представляет собой сложную сюжетную композицию, основой которой являются две свастики. Свастика трактуется автором как модель мироздания в представлениях населения поздней бронзы и раннего железа. Основываясь на этом, он предлагает свою трактовку религиозных воззрений «кобанцев», более сложных, чем представлялось исследователям до сих пор. Обилие солярных символов в кобанской культуре, по мнению автора, дает возможность предположить, что главным религиозным культом у кобанских племен был культ солнца, так же, как и у более позднего населения Северного Кавказа. Методологической основой исследования является совокупность общеисторических, этнографических и археологических методов исследования, использование которых определяется характером изучаемого материала.
Повседневность мурманчанок в конце 1980-х — начале 1990-х годов глазами исследователей и журналистов
Authors: Штылева М.В. , Пушкарева Н.Л.
Published: March 2024

В статье проанализированы публикации, в которых нашла отражение недавняя история российской повседневности — обыденная жизнь Мурманска и отчасти всего региона русского Заполярья в 1980-е — 1990-е гг. Обнаружена крайняя скудость исследований, посвященных изучению повседневной жизни женщин этого города и региона, в то время как он представляет интерес как один из первых, в котором возникли снизу независимые женские общественные организации, впоследствии слившиеся в «Конгресс женщин Кольского полуострова». Целью статьи было выявление общей тенденции в освещении вопросов, связанных с бытом женщин этого малоизученного региона Российской Федерации, генерализация всех сведений, которые можно собрать в современной российской научной литературе по этому вопросу за последние 35 лет. Проведенный анализ привел к выводу о том, что несмотря на высокую социальную активность женщин Кольского региона в целом и Мурманска в частности в изучаемое время, повседневный опыт женщин в различных общественных сферах не был тематизирован в научной литературе. Перспективными источниками исследования повседневности мурманчанок в 1985–2000 гг., полагает автор, могут служить периодическая печать и собственно «устная женская история» — нарративы активисток женского движения, их публикации и выступления, рассказы очевидцев. В статье обосновывается необходимость и актуальность такого рода исследования.
The article analyzes publications that reflect the recent history of Russian everyday life — the everyday life of Murmansk and partly the entire Russian Polar Region in the 1980s–1990s. It reveals the extreme scarcity of studies devoted to the everyday life of women in this city and region, while it is of interest as one of the first cities where independent women's public organizations emerged from below, which later merged into the «Congress of Women of the Kola Peninsula». The aim of the article was to identify a general trend in the coverage of the everyday life of women in this little-studied region of the Russian Federation, to generalize all the information that can be collected in modern Russian scientific literature on this issue over the past 35 years. The analysis has led to the conclusion that despite the high social activity of women in the Kola region in general and Murmansk in particular in the time under study, women's everyday experience in various social spheres has not been thematized in the scientific literature. The author believes that periodicals and "women's oral history" — the narratives of women activists, their publications and speeches, and eyewitness accounts — can serve as promising sources of research into the everyday life of Murmansk women in 1985–2000. The article highlights the importance of this kind of research.
Застольные обычаи ингушей: традиции и инновации
Authors: Харсиев Б.М.-Г.
Published: March 2024

Автор на основе современных полевых исследований и личного опыта описывает особенности застольных обычаев ингушей в их динамике. Социальная антропология оперирует многими элементами традиционной культуры, в ее исследовательское поле входят и правила поведения в этнической среде, которые являются важным фактором коммуникативных отношений. Актуальность темы исследования заключается в том, что застольная культура ингушей, уходящая своими корнями в историческое прошлое, постепенно трансформировала свое проявление под влиянием вызовов времени и социально-политического строя общества. В частности, со второй половины минувшего века население все активнее приобщалось к новым правилам советского быта, размывались традиционные гендерные отношения, не столь важной становилась этика патриархального старшинства. Внедряемые в течение нескольких поколений через просвещение и образование нормы социальной культуры и поведения, наконец, в конце XX в. стали приносить ощутимые результаты. Произошел перелом в сторону отказа от модусов этнической этики в пользу общепринятых норм. Описание застольных обычаев ингушей как одной из интереснейших проекций социальной культуры ранее не получило должного внимания в науке. Оставаясь в рамках фольклора и художественной литературы, этот существенный элемент института гостеприимства не подвергался теоретическому осмыслению.
The author, based on current field research and personal experience, describes the Ingush table customs in their dynamics. Social anthropology operates with many elements of ethnic culture, including the rules of behavior in an ethnic environment, which are an important factor of communicative relations. The topic requires research as the Ingush feast culture, rooted in the historical past, tends to transform its manifestation depending on the challenges of the time and the socio-political structure of society. In particular, since the second half of the last century, the population has been increasingly accustomed to the new rules of Soviet life, traditional gender relations have been eroded, and the ethics of patriarchal seniority has become less important. The norms of social culture and behavior introduced for generations through enlightenment and education finally in the late twentieth century began to produce tangible results. There has been a shift towards rejecting the modus operandi of ethnic ethics in favor of generally accepted norms. The description of Ingush drinking customs as one of the most interesting projections of social culture has not received due attention in scientific literature. Having been featured in fiction, this essential element of the institute of hospitality has not yet been subjected to theoretical reflection.
Construction of an Escherichia coli chassis for efficient biosynthesis of human-like N-linked glycoproteins
Authors: Bao Zixin , Gao Yuting , Song Yitong , Ding Ning , Li Wei , Wu Qiong , Zhang Xiaomei , Zheng Yang , Li Junming , Hu Xuejun
Published: March 2024

The production of N-linked glycoproteins in genetically engineered Escherichia coli holds significant potential for reducing costs, streamlining bioprocesses, and enhancing customization. However, the construction of a stable and low-cost microbial cell factory for the efficient production of humanized N-glycosylated recombinant proteins remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we developed a glyco-engineered E. coli chassis to produce N-glycosylated proteins with the human-like glycan Gal-β-1,4-GlcNAc-β-1,3-Gal-β-1,3-GlcNAc-, containing the human glycoform Gal-β-1,4-GlcNAc-β-1,3-. Our initial efforts were to replace various loci in the genome of the E. coli XL1-Blue strain with oligosaccharyltransferase PglB and the glycosyltransferases LsgCDEF to construct the E. coli chassis. In addition, we systematically optimized the promoter regions in the genome to regulate transcription levels. Subsequently, utilizing a plasmid carrying the target protein, we have successfully obtained N-glycosylated proteins with 100% tetrasaccharide modification at a yield of approximately 320 mg/L. Furthermore, we constructed the metabolic pathway for sialylation using a plasmid containing a dual-expression cassette of the target protein and CMP-sialic acid synthesis in the tetrasaccharide chassis cell, resulting in a 40% efficiency of terminal α-2,3- sialylation and a production of 65 mg/L of homogeneously sialylated glycoproteins in flasks. Our findings pave the way for further exploration of producing different linkages (α-2,3/α-2,6/α-2,8) of sialylated human-like N-glycoproteins in the periplasm of the plug-and-play E. coli chassis, laying a strong foundation for industrial-scale production.
Evaluation of data-driven NARX model based compensation for multi-axial real-time hybrid simulation benchmark study
Authors: Xu Weijie , Meng Xiangjin , Chen Cheng , Guo Tong , Peng Changle
Published: March 2024

Actuator control takes a pivotal role in achieving stability and accuracy, particularly in the context of multi-axial real-time hybrid simulation (maRTHS). In maRTHS, multiple hydraulic actuators are necessitated to apply precise motions to experimental substructures thus necessitating the application of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO)control strategies. This study evaluates the data-driven nonlinear autoregressive with external input (NARX) based compensation for the servo-hydraulic dynamics within the maRTHS benchmark model. Different from previous study, nonlinear terms are incorporated into the NARX model. Online least square and ridge regression techniques are utilized to estimate the model coefficients to achieve optimal compensation. The influence of various model order and window length is assessed for the NARX model-based compensation. The findings of this research demonstrate that NARX-based compensation has significant potential not only in facilitating precise actuator control for maRTHS but also in enabling robust control in the presence of unknown uncertainties inherent to the servo-hydraulic system.
Dedifferentiated early postnatal lung myofibroblasts redifferentiate in adult disease
Authors: Chandran Rachana R. , Adams Taylor S. , Kabir Inamul , Gallardo-Vara Eunate , Kaminski Naftali , Gomperts Brigitte N. , Greif Daniel M.
Published: March 2024

Alveolarization ensures sufficient lung surface area for gas exchange, and during bulk alveolarization in mice (postnatal day [P] 4.5–14.5), alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA)+ myofibroblasts accumulate, secrete elastin, and lay down alveolar septum. Herein, we delineate the dynamics of the lineage of early postnatal SMA+ myofibroblasts during and after bulk alveolarization and in response to lung injury. SMA+ lung myofibroblasts first appear at ∼ P2.5 and proliferate robustly. Lineage tracing shows that, at P14.5 and over the next few days, the vast majority of SMA+ myofibroblasts downregulate smooth muscle cell markers and undergo apoptosis. Of note, ∼8% of these dedifferentiated cells and another ∼1% of SMA+ myofibroblasts persist to adulthood. Single cell RNA sequencing analysis of the persistent SMA− cells and SMA+ myofibroblasts in the adult lung reveals distinct gene expression profiles. For instance, dedifferentiated SMA− cells exhibit higher levels of tissue remodeling genes. Most interestingly, these dedifferentiated early postnatal myofibroblasts re-express SMA upon exposure of the adult lung to hypoxia or the pro-fibrotic drug bleomycin. However, unlike during alveolarization, these cells that re-express SMA do not proliferate with hypoxia. In sum, dedifferentiated early postnatal myofibroblasts are a previously undescribed cell type in the adult lung and redifferentiate in response to injury.
Inhibition of malaria and babesiosis parasites by putative red blood cell targeting small molecules
Authors: Groomes Patrice V. , Paul Aditya S. , Duraisingh Manoj T.
Published: March 2024

Background

Chemotherapies for malaria and babesiosis frequently succumb to the emergence of pathogen-related drug-resistance. Host-targeted therapies are thought to be less susceptible to resistance but are seldom considered for treatment of these diseases.

Methods

Our overall objective was to systematically assess small molecules for host cell-targeting activity to restrict proliferation of intracellular parasites. We carried out a literature survey to identify small molecules annotated for host factors implicated in Plasmodium falciparum infection. Alongside P. falciparum, we implemented in vitro parasite susceptibility assays also in the zoonotic parasite Plasmodium knowlesi and the veterinary parasite Babesia divergens. We additionally carried out assays to test directly for action on RBCs apart from the parasites. To distinguish specific host-targeting antiparasitic activity from erythrotoxicity, we measured phosphatidylserine exposure and hemolysis stimulated by small molecules in uninfected RBCs.

Results

We identified diverse RBC target-annotated inhibitors with Plasmodium-specific, Babesia-specific, and broad-spectrum antiparasitic activity. The anticancer MEK-targeting drug trametinib is shown here to act with submicromolar activity to block proliferation of Plasmodium spp. in RBCs. Some inhibitors exhibit antimalarial activity with transient exposure to RBCs prior to infection with parasites, providing evidence for host-targeting activity distinct from direct inhibition of the parasite.

Conclusions

We report here characterization of small molecules for antiproliferative and host cell-targeting activity for malaria and babesiosis parasites. This resource is relevant for assessment of physiological RBC-parasite interactions and may inform drug development and repurposing efforts.
TRAIL and IP-10 dynamics in pregnant women post COVID-19 vaccination: associations with neutralizing antibody potency
Authors: Chen Wei-Chun , Hu Shu-Yu , Cheng Chao-Min , Shen Ching-Fen , Chuang Hui-Yu , Ker Chin-Ru , Sun Der-Ji , Shen Ching-Ju
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study is to investigate changes in TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and gamma interferon-induced protein 10 (IP-10) after COVID-19 vaccination in pregnant women and to explore their association with neutralizing antibody (Nab) inhibition.

Methods

The study evaluated 93 pregnant women who had previously received two (n=21), three (n=55) or four (n=17) doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Also we evaluated maternal blood samples that were collected during childbirth. The levels of TRAIL, IP-10 and Nab inhibition were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).

Results and discussion

Our study revealed four-dose group resulted in lower TRAIL levels when compared to the two-dose and three-dose groups (4.78 vs. 16.07 vs. 21.61 pg/ml, p = 0.014). The two-dose group had reduced IP-10 levels than the three-dose cohort (111.49 vs. 147.89 pg/ml, p=0.013), with no significant variation compared to the four-dose group. In addition, the four-dose group showed stronger Nab inhibition against specific strains (BA.2 and BA.5) than the three-dose group. A positive correlation was observed between TRAIL and IP-10 in the two-dose group, while this relationship was not found in other dose groups or between TRAIL/IP-10 and Nab inhibition. As the doses of the COVID-19 vaccine increase, the levels of TRAIL and IP-10 generally increase, only by the fourth dose, the group previously vaccinated with AZD1222 showed lower TRAIL but higher IP-10. Despite these changes, more doses of the vaccine consistently reinforced Nab inhibition, apparently without any relation to TRAIL and IP-10 levels. The variation may indicate the induction of immunological memory in vaccinated mothers, which justifies further research in the future.
Virus-induced host genomic remodeling dysregulates gene expression, triggering tumorigenesis
Authors: Dong Weixia , Wang Huiqin , Li Menghui , Li Ping , Ji Shaoping
Published: March 2024

Virus-induced genomic remodeling and altered gene expression contribute significantly to cancer development. Some oncogenic viruses such as Human papillomavirus (HPV) specifically trigger certain cancers by integrating into the host’s DNA, disrupting gene regulation linked to cell growth and migration. The effect can be through direct integration of viral genomes into the host genome or through indirect modulation of host cell pathways/proteins by viral proteins. Viral proteins also disrupt key cellular processes like apoptosis and DNA repair by interacting with host molecules, affecting signaling pathways. These disruptions lead to mutation accumulation and tumorigenesis. This review focuses on recent studies exploring virus-mediated genomic structure, altered gene expression, and epigenetic modifications in tumorigenesis.
Diaphragm movement sensor for phrenic nerve monitoring during cryoballoon procedures: the first clinical evaluation
Authors: Schemoul Elsa , Tovmassian Lilith , Mancini Julien , Koutbi Linda , Biermé Cédric , Deharo Jean-Claude , Franceschi Frédéric , Maille Baptiste
Published: March 2024

Background and aims

Right phrenic nerve palsy is the most frequent complication of cryoballoon procedures. The SMARTFREEZE™ console (Boston Scientific, St. Paul, MN, USA) has integrated a new tool for diaphragm monitoring—the Diaphragm Movement Sensor; however, it has not been evaluated in clinical practice. We aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of the Diaphragm Movement Sensor based on compound motor action potential data recorded simultaneously.

Methods

Thirty consecutive patients (mean age 63.2 ± 10.2 years) were included. We simultaneously recorded the compound motor action potential and the Diaphragm Movement Sensor during cryoapplications in the right pulmonary veins. The right phrenic nerve was paced at 60 per minute, 12 V and 2.9 ms. Compound motor action potential monitoring with a 30% decrease cutoff for the diagnosis of phrenic nerve threatening was considered the gold standard. The Diaphragm Movement Sensor decrease threshold was also set at 30%.

Results

Considering compound motor action potential monitoring, phrenic nerve threatening occurred 11 times (in seven patients) among 84 cryoapplications (13.1%) at the right pulmonary veins. The sensitivity and specificity of the Diaphragm Movement Sensor were, respectively, 33% (95% CI: 7%–70%) and 49% (95% CI: 38%–61%; P < 0.001). The predictive positive and negative values for the Diaphragm Movement Sensor were, respectively, 7% (95% CI: 2%–20%) and 86% (95% CI: 72%–95%). The Diaphragm Movement Sensor gave an erroneous diagnosis in 44/84 cryoapplications (52.4%).

Conclusions

The diagnostic performance of the Diaphragm Movement Sensor is low, and the relevance of its use in clinical practice may be debated.
The diagnostic role of resting myocardial blood flow in STEMI patients after revascularization
Authors: Yan Ming , Shang Hua , Guo Xiaorui , Hao Luping , Hou Shuang , Zheng Hongming
Published: March 2024

Background

The value of semiquantitative resting myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in coronary artery disease (CAD) is limited. At present, quantitative MPI can be performed by a new cadmium zinc tellurium single-photon emission computed tomography (CZT-SPECT) scan. The quantitative index of resting myocardial blood flow (MBF) has received little attention, and its manifestations and clinical value in the presence of unstable coronary blood flow have not been clarified.

Purpose

In patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), whether resting MBF can provide additional value of blood flow than semi-quantitative resting MPI is not sure. We also explored the influencing factors of resting MBF.

Methods

This was a retrospective clinical study. We included 75 patients with STEMI in the subacute phase who underwent resting MPI and dynamic scans after reperfusion therapy. General patient information, STEMI-related data, MPI, gated MPI (G-MPI), and resting MBF data were collected and recorded. According to the clinically provided culprit vessels, the resting MBF was divided into ischemic MBF and non-ischemic MBF. The paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for resting MBF. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the optimal threshold for ischemia, and multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of resting MBF.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference between the ischemic MBF and non-ischemic MBF [0.59 (0.47–0.72) vs. 0.76 (0.64–0.93), p < 0.0001]. The ROC curve analysis revealed that resting MBF could identify ischemia to a certain extent, with a cutoff value of 0.5975, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.666, sensitivity = 55.8%, and specificity = 68.7%. Male sex and summed rest score (SRS) were influencing factors for resting MBF.

Conclusion

To a certain extent, resting MBF can suggest residual ischemia after reperfusion therapy in patients with STEMI. There was a negative correlation between male sex, SRS, and ischemic MBF. A lower resting MBF may be associated with more severe myocardial ischemia.
Cardiology career satisfaction: a little academic activity goes a long way
Authors: deFilippi Christopher R.
Published: March 2024

The professional landscape for clinical cardiologists and most physicians has changed dramatically in the last decade in the United States. By the end of 2020, 87% of cardiologists were integrated with a health system (employed or part of a professional services agreement). Physicians transitioning to a large employer are often dissatisfied with the lack of autonomy and the pressure from “one-size-fits-all” productivity targets. The results from physician surveys indicate that physicians practicing clinically in an academic environment have greater job satisfaction. Potentially even a modest amount of time comprising 10-20% of total effort spent on academic pursuits that are most meaningful to the individual physician can result in nearly a two-thirds lower risk of burnout compared with physicians who don't receive this time. The opportunity to participate in this special topic compendium by cardiovascular specialists at one regional integrated health system in the United States is an example of an opportunity to successfully incorporate meaningful professional academic opportunities into a clinical care environment.
Vertical profiles of temperature, wind, and turbulent fluxes across a deciduous forest over a slope observed with a UAV
Authors: Wrenger Burkhard , Cuxart Joan
Published: March 2024

To contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics of the atmosphere inside and above a forest, vertical profiles are flown with a remotely-controlled multicopter in the Steinkrug forest. This area is located over a slope in the Solling natural area in Lower Saxony (Germany), composed mostly of deciduous trees about 30 m tall. Fifteen vertical flights made near sunset between summer 2019 and spring 2020 were inspected from the surface to 100 m above ground level. These measurements provide information on the vertical structures of wind and temperature within and above the canopy, including the effects of shallow slope flows near the ground. Contrasting measurements downhill outside the forest were also made. The gathered data allow estimated profiles of the turbulent fluxes of sensible heat and momentum to be obtained by computing averages and fluctuations for layers of 5 m depth. A leaf area density profile in both leafy and leafless conditions could also be produced. The presence of a slope flow is inspected at both sites, and the applicability of existing theories is explored.
Beyond (COVID-19) lockdown: faculty experiences in the post-pandemic academic landscape
Authors: Dewangan Roshan Lal , Longkumer Imlisongla , Gupta Shashidhar , Pathak Smriti
Published: March 2024

Background

This study investigates the nuanced experiences of faculty members in higher education institutions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Focusing on family–work conflict, job satisfaction, and personal wellbeing, the research aims to provide comprehensive insights into the challenges and adaptations encountered by faculty members amidst unprecedented disruptions.

Method

A mixed-method approach was employed, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative measures. The quantitative facet involved 82 participants who responded surveys distributed to faculty members across diverse regions of India. Concurrently, qualitative data were collected through interviews with 30 faculty members in three states. The quantitative study utilized standardized tools, while the qualitative inquiry followed a semi-structured interview schedule.

Result

Quantitative findings revealed a significant upswing in job satisfaction after institutional reopening compared to the lockdown period. However, no significant differences were observed concerning work–family conflict and personal wellbeing. Notably, faculty members reported heightened work–family and family–work interference compared to national statistics. Qualitative responses highlight a notable shift in teaching methodologies, incorporating multimedia and online tools. Faculty members exhibited mixed sentiments about returning to the office, expressed a deepened appreciation for social relationships post-reopening, and emphasized the positive impact of institutional hygiene protocols.

Conclusion

This study offers crucial insights into the multifaceted experiences of faculty members in higher institutions during the COVID-19 lockdown and subsequent reopening. The research contributes valuable perspectives to the evolving discourse on post-pandemic academia, providing a foundation for further exploration and understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by faculty members in the changing scenario of higher education.
Characterization of the m6A regulators’ landscape highlights the clinical significance of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Chao Peng , Zhang Xueqin , Zhang Lei , Wang Yong , Wusiman Miriban , Aimaijiang Gulizere , Chen Xiaoyang , Yang Yining
Published: March 2024

Objective

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a severe cardiovascular disease that threatens human life and health globally. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) governs the fate of RNAs via m6A regulators. Nevertheless, how m6A regulators affect AMI remains to be deciphered. To solve this issue, an integrative analysis of m6A regulators in AMI was conducted.

Methods

We acquired transcriptome profiles (GSE59867, GSE48060) of peripheral blood samples from AMI patients and healthy controls. Key m6A regulators were used for LASSO, and consensus clustering was conducted. Next, the m6A score was also computed. Immune cell infiltration, ferroptosis, and oxidative stress were evaluated. In-vitro and in-vivo experiments were conducted to verify the role of the m6A regulator ALKBH5 in AMI.

Results

Most m6A regulators presented notable expression alterations in circulating cells of AMI patients versus those of controls. Based on key m6A regulators, we established a gene signature and a nomogram for AMI diagnosis and risk prediction. AMI patients were classified into three m6A clusters or gene clusters, respectively, and each cluster possessed the unique properties of m6A modification, immune cell infiltration, ferroptosis, and oxidative stress. Finally, the m6A score was utilized to quantify m6A modification patterns. Therapeutic targeting of ALKBH5 greatly alleviated apoptosis and intracellular ROS in H/R-induced H9C2 cells and NRCMs.

Conclusion

Altogether, our findings highlight the clinical significance of m6A regulators in the diagnosis and risk prediction of AMI and indicate the critical roles of m6A modification in the regulation of immune cell infiltration, ferroptosis, and oxidative stress.
Convergence between helminths and breast cancer: intratumoral injection of the excretory/secretory antigens of the human parasite Toxocara canis (EST) increase lung macro and micro metastasis
Authors: Aragón-Franco Raúl , Ruiz-Manzano Rocío Alejandra , Nava-Castro Karen Elizabeth , Del Rìo Araiza Víctor Hugo , Garay-Canales Claudia Angelica , Pérez-Torres Armando , Chacón-Salinas Romel , Girón-Pérez Manuel Iván , Morales-Montor Jorge
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Worldwide, breast cancer is the most important cancer in incidence and prevalence in women. Different risk factors interact to increase the probability of developing it. Biological agents such as helminth parasites, particularly their excretory/secretory antigens, may play a significant role in tumor development. Helminths and their antigens have been recognized as inducers or promoters of cancer due to their ability to regulate the host’s immune response. Previously in our laboratory, we demonstrated that chronic infection by Toxocara canis increases the size of mammary tumors, affecting the systemic response to the parasite. However, the parasite does not invade the tumor, and we decided to study if the excretion/secretion of antigens from Toxocara canis (EST) can affect the progression of mammary tumors or the pathophysiology of cancer which is metastasis. Thus, this study aimed to determine whether excretion/secretion T. canis antigens, injected directly into the tumor, affect tumor growth and metastasis.

Methods

We evaluated these parameters through the monitoring of the intra-tumoral immune response.

Results

Mice injected intratumorally with EST did not show changes in the size and weight of the tumors; although the tumors showed an increased microvasculature, they did develop increased micro and macro-metastasis in the lung. The analysis of the immune tumor microenvironment revealed that EST antigens did not modulate the proportion of immune cells in the tumor, spleen, or peripheral lymph nodes. Macroscopic and microscopic analyses of the lungs showed increased metastasis in the EST-treated animals compared to controls, accompanied by an increase in VEGF systemic levels.

Discussion

Thus, these findings showed that intra-tumoral injection of T. canis EST antigens promote lung metastasis through modulation of the tumor immune microenvironment.
NK cell receptor profiling of endometrial and decidual NK cells reveals pregnancy-induced adaptations
Authors: Feyaerts Dorien , Benner Marilen , Comitini Gaia , Shadmanfar Wijs , van der Heijden Olivier W.H. , Joosten Irma , van der Molen Renate G.
Published: March 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells, with a unique NK cell receptor phenotype, are abundantly present in the non-pregnant (endometrium) and pregnant (decidua) humanuterine mucosa. It is hypothesized that NK cells in the endometrium are precursors for decidual NK cells present during pregnancy. Microenvironmental changes can alter the phenotype of NK cells, but it is unclear whether decidual NK cell precursors in the endometrium alter their NK cell receptor repertoire under the influence of pregnancy. To examine whether decidual NK cell precursors reveal phenotypic modifications upon pregnancy, we immunophenotyped the NK cell receptor repertoire of both endometrial and early-pregnancy decidual NK cells using flow cytometry. We showed that NK cells in pre-pregnancy endometrium have a different phenotypic composition compared to NK cells in early-pregnancy decidua. The frequency of killer-immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR expressing NK cells, especially KIR2DS1, KIR2DL2L3S2, and KIR2DL2S2 was significantly lower in decidua, while the frequency of NK cells expressing activating receptors NKG2D, NKp30, NKp46, and CD244 was significantly higher compared to endometrium. Furthermore, co-expression patterns showed a lower frequency of NK cells co-expressing KIR3DL1S1 and KIR2DL2L3S2 in decidua. Our results provide new insights into the adaptations in NK cell receptor repertoire composition that NK cells in the uterine mucosa undergo upon pregnancy.
Population parameters and heterogeneity in survival rates of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins in a heavily urbanized coastal region of southeast China: implications for conservation
Authors: Lin Wenzhi , Karczmarski Leszek , Chan Stephen C. Y. , Zheng Ruiqiang , Ho Yuen-Wa , Mo Yaqian
Published: March 2024

The Pearl River Delta (PRD) region on the southeast coast of China is among the largest and most populated metropolitan regions of the world, subjecting the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) inhabiting coastal waters of this region – apparently the largest population of this species – to intense anthropogenic pressure. In this 5-year study (2011-2015), we applied mark-recapture techniques to quantify population parameters of humpback dolphins in the main body of the extensive estuarine system of the Pearl River, the Lingding Bay (LB), the most urbanized and industrialized part of PRD. The super-population size was estimated at 928 individuals (95% CI=823-1046), which however over-represents the latest number of extant animals. Annual estimates fluctuated between 708 and 750 dolphins, and likely reflect most accurately the latest/current number of humpback dolphins in waters of LB. Both the overall and annual estimates generated by our study are considerably lower than previously published abundance estimates. Apparent survival rates were generally low, estimated at 0.943 (SE = 0.008, 95% CI = 0.929-0.958) and 0.815 (SE = 0.025, 95% CI = 0.766-0.866) for adults and juveniles, respectively. In conjunction with limited recruitment, they may have led to a substantial decline in population numbers over the past two decades. Notably, dolphins exhibited heterogeneous apparent survival rates across the complex anthropogenic seascape of LB. Adult individuals that use Hong Kong waters as their primary habitat exhibited 6.2% higher survival rates than those in other parts of LB. This difference tripled (19.2%) for juveniles, a likely expression of their susceptibility to environmental and/or anthropogenic stresses. We suggest that the difference in survival is largely due to heterogeneous anthropogenic stressors that vary spatially across the estuary, among which habitat loss, pollution, and declining prey resources appear to be the primary threats. Based on our latest findings, we call for a strategic conservation planning with the highest priority given to preserve the remaining key dolphin habitats in Hong Kong waters, and to quantify and mitigate the impacts of major stressor(s) in Guangdong (mainland China) waters. Given the encroachment of ever-more-intense human activities on the coastal habitats of humpback dolphins, understanding their demographic response and the underlying mechanisms of the population processes may prove instrumental in the formulation of a conservation management strategy that can secure their continuous survival.
Microplastic occurrence in sub-surface waters of the Indonesian archipelago
Authors: Cordova Muhammad Reza , Iskandar Mochamad Riza , Surinati Dewi , Kaisupy Muhammad Taufik , Wibowo Singgih Prasetyo Adi , Subandi Riyana , Ulumuddin Yaya Ihya , Purbonegoro Triyoni , Yogaswara Deny , Sani Sofia Yuniar , Puspitasari Rachma , Rositasari Ricky , Riani Etty , Zheng Shan , Sun Xiaoxia , Wang Zheng
Published: March 2024

The issue of plastic pollution in the marine environment is a matter of great concern. Our research presents pioneering findings on sub-surface microplastics in the Indonesian archipelagic waters. Data on microplastic presence in sub-surface water in the Indonesian Archipelagic Water is crucial for expanding our understanding of microplastic distribution from the surface to the bottom layers of the ocean, a research area that has been relatively overlooked. We discovered microplastic particles at 5 m depth below the surface through simultaneous pump method. The highest concentration of microplastics was discovered in Ambon, followed by North Java and North Sulawesi. In contrast, the lowest abundance of microplastics was detected in the Maluku Sea. These findings are consistent with prior studies establishing a relationship between human activity–as indicated by population density–and microplastic pollution. However, our results indicate that levels of microplastics in Ambon were significantly higher than those found in other sampled areas, particularly compared to North Java, which boasts the highest population density in Indonesia. This disparity is likely due to a faster seawater flushing rate and shorter water residence time in North Java relative to Ambon. The origins and pathways through which these microplastics are introduced into Indonesian archipelagic waters remain uncertain. Based on particle composition (52.73% fibers and 51.38% size <500 µm), it appears that they may result from either larger plastic items being broken down during transportation over long distances by prevailing currents from input from coastal areas or as a byproduct of local activities. Additional research is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of microplastic in water columns. This includes investigating the fate of microplastics and examining their impact on marine organisms within this treasured ecosystem. Moreover, it is important to develop methods for mapping the worldwide distribution of microplastics.
Evaluation of beach response due to construction of submerged detached breakwater
Authors: Lim Changbin , Kim Jinhoon , Kim Jong-Beom , Lee Jung-Lyul
Published: March 2024

Submerged detached breakwaters (SDBWs) have increasingly been used in recent times as an alternative against their emergent counterpart (EDBWs) to mitigate erosion because the former do not spoil the seascape. Both of these structures are (usually) constructed using precast concrete blocks or natural granite rocks, hence becoming permeable structures. For an EDBW, a parabolic bay shape equation can be readily used to estimate the planar shape of the shoreline behind the structure, but there is still no approach to estimate how the shoreline behind the SDBW is formed. In this study, we estimated how the shoreline is balanced by examining how the dominant wave direction changes due to the diffraction of the transmitted wave generated after the installation of the SDBW from the long-term wave directional spectrum. The change in dominant wave direction was determined under the shoreline gradient condition where littoral drift does not occur, considering the diffraction phenomenon due to the difference in transmitted waves. This means that the shape of the equilibrium shoreline changes to face perpendicular to the dominant wave direction. As a meaningful result, when the transmittance is 0, it converges to the well-known empirical equation of EDBW. The present methodology is validated by comparing the observed data (wave and shoreline change) from two beaches (Anmok and Bongpo-Cheonjin Beaches) on the eastern coast of Korea. This rational approach to shoreline changes behind permeable SDBWs will help in proactive review work for coastal management as well as beach erosion mitigation.
Effect of simulation-based training workshop on obstetric emergency team collaboration and communication: a mixed study
Authors: Wu Na , Li Wei , Huang Rong , Jiang Hui
Published: March 2024

Aims and objectives

To explore the effects of simulation-based midwife training workshops and determine whether such a program can improve team collaboration and communication.

Background

Simulation training improves communication, team cooperation, critical thinking, and situational awareness.

Design

This mixed study was conducted September 15–18, 2021.

Methods

Participants included 23 obstetricians and midwives who completed 2 days of simulation training, including communication, skills, teamwork, single technical operation, and scene running. The Clinical Teamwork Scale was used before and after the comparison, and the data were analyzed using a phenomenological analytic process.

Results

The total team cooperation, transparent thinking, closed-loop communication, overall decision-making, clear responsibility, and leadership scores of the trainees were significantly higher after than before the training. The experience of attending a simulated training workshop can be divided into two themes: innovative ways of offering training and active learning. Three key themes emerged from each category: education combined with recreation; full participation in interactions; and teamwork and communication. (1) application of knowledge (2) dissemination, and (3) sublimation of knowledge.

Conclusion

This study’s findings indicated a good experience and higher team cooperation score among midwives participating in simulation-based training in China, the value of our work is to show that the researched teaching methods, although published in other contexts, are also valuable in the Chinese context, suggesting that they will pass on the methods and concepts of the simulated training to others and change the current status of classroom teaching, which is its most meaningful practical training effect.

Relevance to clinical practice

These results imply that simulation-based midwife training for obstetric emergencies is required to improve the comprehensive ability of midwives to address obstetric emergencies, thereby improving maternal clinical outcomes.

No patient or public contribution

Neither patients nor the public were involved in this study, and the midwives and obstetricians voluntarily participated.
Risk factors and genetic characteristics of the carriage of hypervirulent and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii among pregnant women
Authors: Zheng Chao , Li Defeng , Wang Yinglan , Wang Lisheng , Huang Yuting , Yao Jun
Published: March 2024

Background

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and its emerging evolutionary branch toward hypervirulence have been neglected in pregnancy.

Methods

From September 2020 to August 2021, an active surveillance culture program encompassed 138 randomly selected pregnant women, with five subjected to sample collection at two different time points. The clinical characterization was explored through statistical analysis. Whole-genome sequencing, a Galleria mellonella infection model, and a global database were used to investigate the genetic characterization, pathogenicity, evolutionary history, and phylogenetic relationships of the isolates.

Results

Of the 41 CRAB isolates obtained, they were divided into four ClustersRS and an orphan pattern. ClusterRS 1 (n = 31), with eight complex types in pregnancy, was also the dominant ClusterRS globally, followed by ClusterRS 13 (n = 5), identified as hypervirulent KL49 CRAB, exhibiting phylogeographical specificity to Guangdong. A maternal carriage CRAB rate of 26.09% (36/138) was revealed, with half of the isolates representing novel complex types, prominently including CT3071, as the first KL7 isolates identified in Shenzhen. Both KL49 and KL7 isolates were most commonly found in the same participant, suggesting potential intraspecific competition as a possible reason for CRAB infection without carriers during pregnancy. The independent risk factors for carriers were revealed for the first time, including advanced maternal age, gestational diabetes mellitus, and Group B Streptococcus infection.

Conclusion

The significant carriage rate and enhanced virulence of CRAB during pregnancy emphasize the imperative for routine surveillance to forestall dissemination within this high-risk group, especially in Guangdong for ClusterRS 13 isolates.
Protist communities of microbial mats from the extreme environments of five saline Andean lagoons at high altitudes in the Atacama Desert
Authors: Acosta Eduardo , Nitsche Frank , Dorador Cristina , Arndt Hartmut
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Heterotrophic protists colonizing microbial mats have received little attention over the last few years, despite their importance in microbial food webs. A significant challenge originates from the fact that many protists remain uncultivable and their functions remain poorly understood.

Methods

Metabarcoding studies of protists in microbial mats across high-altitude lagoons of different salinities (4.3–34 practical salinity units) were carried out to provide insights into their vertical stratification at the millimeter scale. DNA and cDNA were analyzed for selected stations.

Results

Sequence variants classified as the amoeboid rhizarian Rhogostoma and the ciliate Euplotes were found to be common members of the heterotrophic protist communities. They were accompanied by diatoms and kinetoplastids. Correlation analyses point to the salinity of the water column as a main driver influencing the structure of the protist communities at the five studied microbial mats. The active part of the protist communities was detected to be higher at lower salinities (<20 practical salinity units).

Discussion

We found a restricted overlap of the protist community between the different microbial mats indicating the uniqueness of these different aquatic habitats. On the other hand, the dominating genotypes present in metabarcoding were similar and could be isolated and sequenced in comparative studies (Rhogostoma, Euplotes, Neobodo). Our results provide a snapshot of the unculturable protist diversity thriving the benthic zone of five athalossohaline lagoons across the Andean plateau.