bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What contributes to inappropriate antibiotic dispensing among qualified and unqualified healthcare providers in Bangladesh? A qualitative study
Authors: Nahar Papreen , Unicomb Leanne , Lucas Patricia Jane , Uddin Mohammad Rofi , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Nizame Fosiul Alam , Khisa Nirnita , Akter S. M. Salim , Rousham Emily K.
Published: July 2020

Background

Over-prescribing and inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Few studies in low and middle-income settings have employed qualitative approaches to examine the drivers of antibiotic sale and dispensing across the full range of healthcare providers (HCPs). We aimed to explore understandings of the use and functions of antibiotics; awareness of AMR and perceived patient or customer demand and adherence among HCPs for human and animal medicine in Bangladesh.

Methods

We used an ethnographic approach to conduct face-to-face, in-depth interviews with 46 community HCPs in one urban and one rural area (Gazipur and Mirzapur districts respectively). We purposefully selected participants from four categories of provider in human and veterinary medicine: qualified; semi-qualified; auxiliary and unqualified. Using a grounded theory approach, thematic analysis was conducted using a framework method.

Results

Antibiotics were considered a medicine of power that gives quick results and works against almost all diseases, including viruses. The price of antibiotics was equated with power such that expensive antibiotics were considered the most powerful medicines. Antibiotics were also seen as preventative medicines. While some providers were well informed about antibiotic resistance and its causes, others were completely unaware. Many providers mistook antibiotic resistance as the side effects of antibiotics, both in human and animal medicine. Despite varied knowledge, providers showed concern about antibiotic resistance but responsibility for inappropriate antibiotic use was shifted to the patients and clients including owners of livestock and animals.

Conclusions

Misconceptions and misinformation led to a wide range of inappropriate uses of antibiotics across the different categories of human and animal healthcare providers. Low awareness of antibiotic action and antibiotic resistance were apparent among healthcare providers, particularly those with little or no training and those in rural areas. Specific and targeted interventions to address AMR in Bangladesh should include educational messages on the rational use of antibiotics and how they work, targeting all types of healthcare providers. While tailored training for providers may increase understanding of antibiotic action and improve practices, more far-reaching structural changes are required to influence and increase responsibility for optimising antibiotic dispensing among all HCPs.
Machine learning-based segmentation of ischemic penumbra by using diffusion tensor metrics in a rat model
Authors: Kuo Duen-Pang , Kuo Po-Chih , Chen Yung-Chieh , Kao Yu-Chieh Jill , Lee Ching-Yen , Chung Hsiao-Wen , Chen Cheng-Yu
Published: July 2020

Background

Recent trials have shown promise in intra-arterial thrombectomy after the first 6–24 h of stroke onset. Quick and precise identification of the salvageable tissue is essential for successful stroke management. In this study, we examined the feasibility of machine learning (ML) approaches for differentiating the ischemic penumbra (IP) from the infarct core (IC) by using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)-derived metrics.

Methods

Fourteen male rats subjected to permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) were included in this study. Using a 7 T magnetic resonance imaging, DTI metrics such as fractional anisotropy, pure anisotropy, diffusion magnitude, mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity were derived. The MD and relative cerebral blood flow maps were coregistered to define the IP and IC at 0.5 h after pMCAO. A 2-level classifier was proposed based on DTI-derived metrics to classify stroke hemispheres into the IP, IC, and normal tissue (NT). The classification performance was evaluated using leave-one-out cross validation.

Results

The IC and non-IC can be accurately segmented by the proposed 2-level classifier with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) between 0.99 and 1.00, and with accuracies between 96.3 and 96.7%. For the training dataset, the non-IC can be further classified into the IP and NT with an AUC between 0.96 and 0.98, and with accuracies between 95.0 and 95.9%. For the testing dataset, the classification accuracy for IC and non-IC was 96.0 ± 2.3% whereas for IP and NT, it was 80.1 ± 8.0%. Overall, we achieved the accuracy of 88.1 ± 6.7% for classifying three tissue subtypes (IP, IC, and NT) in the stroke hemisphere and the estimated lesion volumes were not significantly different from those of the ground truth (p = .56, .94, and .78, respectively).

Conclusions

Our method achieved comparable results to the conventional approach using perfusion–diffusion mismatch. We suggest that a single DTI sequence along with ML algorithms is capable of dichotomizing ischemic tissue into the IC and IP.
Associations between high triglycerides and arterial stiffness in a population-based sample: Kardiovize Brno 2030 study
Authors: Pavlovska Iuliia , Kunzova Sarka , Jakubik Juraj , Hruskova Jana , Skladana Maria , Rivas-Serna Irma Magaly , Medina-Inojosa Jose R. , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Vysoky Robert , Geda Yonas E. , Stokin Gorazd B. , González-Rivas Juan P.
Published: July 2020

Background

The term arterial stiffness (ArSt) describes structural changes in arterial wall related to the loss of elasticity and is known as an independent predictor of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The evidence relating to ArSt and triglycerides (TG) shows contradictory results. This paper means to survey the association between high TG and ArSt, utilizing the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI).

Methods

Subjects aged between 25 and 64 years from a random population-based sample were evaluated between 2013 and 2016. Data from questionnaires, blood pressure, anthropometric measures, and blood samples were collected and analyzed. CAVI was measured using VaSera VS-1500 N devise. Subjects with a history of CVD or chronic renal disease were excluded.

Results

One thousand nine hundred thirty-four participants, 44.7% of males, were included. The median age was 48 (Interquartile Range [IQR] 19) years, TG levels were 1.05 (0.793) mmol/L, and CAVI 7.24 (1.43) points. Prevalence of high CAVI was 10.0% (14.5% in males and 6.4% in females; P <  0.001) and prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia was 20.2% (29.2% in males and 13% in females, P <  0.001). The correlation between TG and CAVI was 0.136 (P <  0.001). High CAVI values were more prevalent among participants with metabolic syndrome (MetS), high blood pressure, dysglycemia, abdominal obesity, high LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), and high total cholesterol. Using binary regression analysis, high TG were associated with high CAVI, even after adjustment for other MetS components, age, gender, smoking status, LDL-c, and statin treatment (β = 0.474, OR = 1.607, 95% CI = 1.063–2.429, P = 0.024).

Conclusion

TG levels were correlated with ArSt, measured as CAVI. High TG was associated with high CAVI independent of multiple cardiometabolic risk factors. Awareness of the risks and targeted treatment of hypertriglyceridemia could further benefit in reducing the prevalence of CVD and events.
A nomogram to predict skip metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Yang Zhi , Ouyang Qianhui
Published: July 2020

Background

Skip metastases are defined as lateral lymph node metastasis (LNM) without the involvement of central LNM in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), and it is difficult to predict in clinical practice. Our study aimed to investigate the risk factors of skip metastasis and establish a nomogram for predicting the probability of skip metastasis in PTC patients.

Patients and methods

A total of 378 consecutive PTC patients with clinically suspected LNM who underwent modified radical neck dissection (MRND) from March 2018 to July 2019 in our hospital were enrolled. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine risk factors of skip metastasis, and a nomogram prediction model was established and internally validated.

Results

The incidence of skip metastases was 11.6% (44/378). Primary tumor size of ≤ 1 cm (OR = 2.703; 95% CI, 1.342–5.464; P = 0.005), age (OR = 1.051; 95% CI, 1.017–1.805; P = 0.005), and primary tumor location in the upper portion (OR = 6.799; 95% CI, 2.710–17.060; P < 0.001) were found to be independent risk factors for skip metastasis in PTC patients. A nomogram based upon these predictors performed well. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.806 (95% CI, 0.736–0.876), and the P value of the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test was 0.66. Decision curve analysis revealed that the nomogram was clinically useful.

Conclusion

Based on the risk factors of skip metastasis, a high-performance nomogram was established, which can provide an individual risk assessment and can guide treatment decisions for patients.
Does the sex ratio of singleton births after frozen single blastocyst transfer differ in relation to blastocyst development?
Authors: Lou Hua , Li Na , Zhang Xiaoke , Sun Ling , Wang Xingling , Hao Dayong , Cui Shihong
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To investigate the associations between blastocyst development and the sex ratio (male:female) among singleton live births resulting from single-blastocyst frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Methods

Patients with singleton live births following the first autologous single FET of non- preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) blastocysts in a single reproductive medicine department between January 2015 and February 2019 were included in this retrospective study. The primary outcome measure was the singleton sex ratio. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the associations between blastocyst quality and singleton sex ratio after adjustment for some potential confounders.

Results

There were 638 high-quality and 572 poor-quality single blastocyst FETs, and the blastocysts were conceived via 855 IVF and 355 ICSI treatments. A total of 1210 singleton live births were assessed. High-quality single blastocyst FET resulted in a significantly higher sex ratio than did poor-quality single blastocyst FET (60% vs. 49.7%, P < 0.001). The infertility cause was not associated with sex ratio among singleton live births (P = 0.537). The results of a multivariate analysis revealed that a high-quality blastocyst has a 150% higher probability of being male than a poor-quality blastocyst (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.57; 95% CI 1.24–2, P < 0.001). Among the three blastocyst morphological parameters, Grade B trophectoderm was significantly associated with a higher sex ratio than Grade C (aOR 1.71; 95% CI 1.33–2.21. P < 0.001). Neither expansion degree nor inner cell mass degree were significantly associated with the singleton sex ratio.

Conclusions

A single high-quality blastocyst FET has a higher chance of resulting in a male infant than a female infant. The results demonstrate that grade B trophectoderm confers benefits in improving the implantation potential of male blastocysts.
Ontological model of multi-agent Smart-system for predicting drug properties based on modified algorithms of artificial immune systems
Authors: Samigulina Galina , Samigulina Zarina
Published: July 2020

Background

Currently, due to the huge progress in the field of information technologies and computer equipment, it is important to use modern approaches of artificial intelligence in order to process extensive chemical information at creating new drugs with desired properties.

The interdisciplinary of research creates additional difficulties in creating new drugs. Currently, there are no universal algorithms and software for predicting the “structure-property” dependence of drug compounds that can take into account the needs of specialists in this field.

In this regard, the development of a modern Smart-system based on the promising bio-inspired approach of artificial immune systems for predicting the structure-property dependence of drug compounds is relevant.

The aim of this work is to develop a multi-agent Smart-system for predicting the “structure-property” dependence of drug compounds using the ontological approach and modified algorithms of artificial immune systems using the example of drug compounds of the sulfonamide group. The proposed system makes it possible to increase the accuracy of prediction models of the “structure-property” dependence, to reduce the time and financial costs for obtaining candidate drug compounds.

Methods

During the creation of a Smart-system, there are used multi-agent and ontological approaches, which allow to structure input and output data, optimally to distribute computing resources and to coordinate the work of the system. As a promising approach for processing a large amount of chemical information, extracting informative descriptors and for the creation of an optimal data set, as well as further predicting the properties of medicinal compounds, there are considered modified algorithms of artificial immune systems and various algorithms of artificial intelligence.

Results

There was developed an ontological model of a multi-agent Smart-system. There are presented the results of the «structure-property» dependence simulation based on a modified grey wolf optimization algorithm and artificial immune systems. During the simulation, there was used information from the Mol-Instincts sulfonamide descriptor database.

Conclusion

The developed multi-agent Smart-system using ontological models allows visually to present the structure and interrelationships of agents functioning, which greatly facilitates the development of software and reduces time and financial costs during the development of new drugs.
Systematic reviews of ten pharmaceutical pricing policies – a research protocol
Authors: Tordrup David , van den Ham Hendrika A. , Glanville Julie , Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje K.
Published: July 2020

Background

High prices of pharmaceutical products are an increasing challenge in high- and low-income countries. Governments in many countries have implemented pricing policies to ensure affordability of medicines to patients and healthcare systems. The World Health Organization published in 2015 the Guideline on Country Pharmaceutical Pricing Policies, which was based on a series of evidence reviews in the preceding years.

As part of the ongoing update of this guideline, we present a protocol for 10 systematic literature reviews on pharmaceutical pricing policies to be covered by the updated guideline.

Methods

The systematic literature reviews will be undertaken according to the principles embodied in the Cochrane Handbook and Centre for Reviews and Dissemination. The interventions studied are pharmaceutical pricing policies implemented by public institutions or a group of purchasing organizations/individuals (e.g. health services). Studies reporting price, volume, availability and/or affordability as the primary outcomes will be eligible for inclusion. Studies in any country or jurisdiction, in any language and in any setting published in 2004 or later are eligible. Eligible study designs are randomized and non-randomized trials, and observational studies including cohort studies, panel data analyses, comparative time series design (including interrupted time-series and repeated measures studies), and controlled before-after studies. A list of 21 databases of peer-reviewed and grey literature will be searched, along with supplementary searches of relevant national and international organizational and governmental websites. Risk of bias will be assessed according to the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) guidelines. A summary table according to the EPOC Worksheets for preparing a Summary of Findings table (SoF) using GRADE will be provided.

Discussion

The results of the review will be used as part of the update of the WHO Guideline on Country Pharmaceutical Pricing Policies. The current protocol may serve as an example for performing systematic literature reviews to inform policy makers.
Identification of the awareness level by the public of Arab countries toward COVID-19: cross-sectional study following an outbreak
Authors: Bonyan Ruwidah , Al-Karasneh Aseel Fuad , El-Dahiyat Faris , Jairoun Ammar Abdulrahman
Published: July 2020

Background

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global challenge. Improving public awareness about preventive measures and disseminating appropriate information about COVID-19 has a critical role in containing the disease.

Aim

To evaluate and determine the factors that may affect the level of awareness and responses toward COVID-19 in Arab countries. The study could be helpful in identifying where more public education about COVID-19 is needed.

Method

This cross-sectional, online descriptive questionnaire-based study was conducted in February and March 2020. A total of 485 participants from Arabic-speaking countries (Jordan, United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Palestine, and Egypt) were asked to complete this Arabic-translated survey using social media platforms (Facebook and WhatsApp).

Result

In general, there was a good level of awareness of the participants regarding COVID-19. Higher awareness scores were significantly correlated with older participants [odds ratio (OR) 1.019; 95% CI 1.012–1.026], those who attended awareness campaigns [OR 1.212; 95% CI 1.081–1.358], secondary school education holders [OR 1.740; 95% CI 1.096–2.763], higher education diploma holders [OR 2.090; 95% CI 1.297–3.368], university degree holders [OR 1.969; 95% CI 1.265–3.066], those who have post-graduate education [OR 2.206; 95% CI 1.393–3.493], and healthcare employees [OR 1.259; 95% CI 1.025–1.547].

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing global panic; thus, awareness and practices of preventive measures of COVID-19 should be increased through public educational campaigns, which should be planned in accordance with communities’ and countries’ attitudes toward COVID-19. Collaborative efforts between ministries of heath and residents of every country should be implemented.
Cellulose–water system’s state analysis by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and sorption measurements
Authors: Grunin Yuriy B. , Grunin Leonid Yu. , Schiraya Veronika Yu. , Ivanova Maria S. , Masas Daria S.
Published: July 2020

Most cellulose-based materials’ manufacturing processes include processing this biopolymer in an aqueous medium. Sorption properties depend on cellulose supramolecular structure and nature of its change during moistening. Plenty of researchers’ efforts have been directed to the development of scientifically sound and commercially reliable processes over the past decade for the cellulose fibers’ dispersion in an aqueous medium. Therefore, it needs a more detailed study of the cellulose–water system components’ interaction. This study presents the supramolecular structure and sorption properties of native cotton cellulose research results obtained by1H NMR relaxation, spectroscopy and sorption measurements. Hydrophilic properties of cellulose as an adsorbent are characterized, taking into account a porous system between its structural elements. We examine in detail water adsorption on the active surface of cellulose Iβ. We also demonstrate the approach for determining the entropy change in the first two layers of adsorbed water and estimate this value increased during adsorption. Cellulose moistening is accompanied by the decomposition of macrofibrils into microfibrils and is manifested in a crystallinity decrease and a specific surface area growth.
Chromium and leather: a review on the chemistry of relevance for allergic contact dermatitis to chromium
Authors: Hedberg Yolanda S.
Published: July 2020

As other causes decline in importance, chromium-tanned leather has become a more important source for chromium allergy, which affects around 1% of the general population. The aim of this review is to give suggestions on how to minimize the risk of leather-related allergic contact dermatitis, which can be elicited in chromium-allergic persons by hexavalent and trivalent chromium released from leather. Hexavalent chromium is the more potent chromium form and requires a lower skin dose to elicit allergic reactions. It is formed on the surface of some, antioxidant-free, leathers at dry conditions (< 35% relative humidity) and is influenced by the tanning process and other conditions, such as UV irradiation, contact with alkaline solutions, and leather age. Trivalent chromium is the dominant form released from chromium-tanned leather and its released amount is sufficient to elicit allergic reactions in some chromium-allergic individuals when they are exposed repetitively and over longer time (days – months). A low initial test result (< 3 mg/kg) for hexavalent chromium with the current standard test (ISO 17075) does not guarantee a low release of chromium from the leather or a low release of hexavalent chromium under typical exposure conditions during the service life of the leather. Information, labels, and certificates regarding leather products are often insufficient to protect chromium-allergic individuals. Correct labelling and information on the possible content of different allergens, as well as different tanning alternatives for certain leather products, are crucial.

Graphical abstract
Optimization of skeletal protein preparation for LC–MS/MS sequencing yields additional coral skeletal proteins in Stylophora pistillata
Authors: Peled Yanai , Drake Jeana L. , Malik Assaf , Almuly Ricardo , Lalzar Maya , Morgenstern David , Mass Tali
Published: July 2020

Stony corals generate their calcium carbonate exoskeleton in a highly controlled biomineralization process mediated by a variety of macromolecules including proteins. Fully identifying and classifying these proteins is crucial to understanding their role in exoskeleton formation, yet no optimal method to purify and characterize the full suite of extracted coral skeletal proteins has been established and hence their complete composition remains obscure. Here, we tested four skeletal protein purification protocols using acetone precipitation and ultrafiltration dialysis filters to present a comprehensive scleractinian coral skeletal proteome. We identified a total of 60 proteins in the coral skeleton, 44 of which were not present in previously published stony coral skeletal proteomes. Extracted protein purification protocols carried out in this study revealed that no one method captures all proteins and each protocol revealed a unique set of method-exclusive proteins. To better understand the general mechanism of skeletal protein transportation, we further examined the proteins’ gene ontology, transmembrane domains, and signal peptides. We found that transmembrane domain proteins and signal peptide secretion pathways, by themselves, could not explain the transportation of proteins to the skeleton. We therefore propose that some proteins are transported to the skeleton via non-traditional secretion pathways.
Development of Autoimmune Thyroid Disease in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Post-Alemtuzumab Improves Treatment Response
Authors: Sovetkina Alina , Nadir Rans , Scalfari Antonio , Tona Francesca , Murphy Kevin , Rigoni Eleonora , Dorsey Rachel , Malik Omar , Nandoskar Ashwini , Singh-Curry Victoria , Nicholas Richard , Martin Niamh
Published: July 2020

Context

Alemtuzumab is an anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). Between 20% and 40% of alemtuzumab-treated MS patients develop autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) as a side effect.

Objective

The objective of this work is to determine whether MS disease progression following alemtuzumab treatment differs in patients who develop AITD compared to those who do not.

Design, Setting, and Patients

A retrospective analysis of 126 patients with relapsing-remitting MS receiving alemtuzumab from 2012 to 2017 was conducted at a tertiary referral center.

Main Outcome Measures

Thyroid status, new relapses, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score change, and disability progression following alemtuzumab were evaluated.

Results

Twenty-six percent (33 out of 126, 25 female, 8 male) of alemtuzumab-treated patients developed AITD, 55% of which was Graves disease. EDSS score following alemtuzumab was reduced in patients who developed AITD compared to those who did not (median [interquartile range]; AITD: –0.25 [–1 to 0.5] vs non-AITD: 0 [1-0]. P = .007]. Multivariable regression analysis confirmed that the development of AITD was independently associated with EDSS score improvement (P = .011). Moreover, AITD patients had higher relapse-free survival following alemtuzumab (P = .023). There was no difference in the number of new focal T2 lesions and contrast-enhancing magnetic resonance imaging lesions developed following alemtuzumab between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Graves disease was the most common form of AITD developed by MS patients following alemtuzumab. This study suggests that MS patients who develop AITD may have an improved response to alemtuzumab, as measured by reduced disability and lower relapse rate.
Augmentation of Nr4a3 and Suppression of Fshb Expression in the Pituitary Gland of Female Annexin A5 Null Mouse
Authors: Terashima Ryota , Saigo Tomotaka , Laoharatchatathanin Titaree , Kurusu Shiro , Brachvogel Bent , Pöschl Ernst , Kawaminami Mitsumori
Published: July 2020

GnRH enhances the expression of annexin A5 (ANXA5) in pituitary gonadotropes, and ANXA5 enhances gonadotropin secretion. However, the impact of ANXA5 regulation on the expression of pituitary hormone genes remains unclear. Here, using quantitative PCR, we demonstrated that ANXA5 deficiency in female mice reduced the expression of Fshb and Gh in their pituitary glands. Transcriptome analysis confirmed a specific increase in Nr4a3 mRNA expression in addition to lower levels of Fshb expression in ANXA5-deficient female pituitary glands. This gene was then found to be a GnRH-inducible immediate early gene, and its increased expression caused protein to accumulate in the nucleus after administration of a GnRH agonist in LβT2 cells, which are an in vitro pituitary gonadotrope model. The increase in ANXA5 protein levels in LβT2 cells clearly suppressed Nr4a3 expression. siRNA-mediated inhibition of Nr4a3 expression increased Fshb expression. The results revealed that GnRH stimulates Nr4a3 and Anxa5 sequentially. NR4A3 suppression of Fshb may be necessary for later massive secretion of FSH by GnRH in gonadotropes, and Nr4a3 would be negatively regulated by ANXA5 to increase FSH secretion.
Stochasticity and determinism in cell fate decisions
Authors: Zechner Christoph , Nerli Elisa , Norden Caren
Published: July 2020

During development, cells need to make decisions about their fate in order to ensure that the correct numbers and types of cells are established at the correct time and place in the embryo. Such cell fate decisions are often classified as deterministic or stochastic. However, although these terms are clearly defined in a mathematical sense, they are sometimes used ambiguously in biological contexts. Here, we provide some suggestions on how to clarify the definitions and usage of the terms stochastic and deterministic in biological experiments. We discuss the frameworks within which such clear definitions make sense and highlight when certain ambiguity prevails. As an example, we examine how these terms are used in studies of neuronal cell fate decisions and point out areas in which definitions and interpretations have changed and matured over time. We hope that this Review will provide some clarification and inspire discussion on the use of terminology in relation to fate decisions.
TheThermus thermophilusDEAD-box protein Hera is a general RNA binding protein and plays a key role in tRNA metabolism
Authors: Donsbach Pascal , Yee Brian A. , Sanchez-Hevia Dione , Berenguer José , Aigner Stefan , Yeo Gene W. , Klostermeier Dagmar
Published: July 2020

RNA helicases catalyze the ATP-dependent destabilization of RNA duplexes. DEAD-box helicases share a helicase core that mediates ATP binding and hydrolysis, RNA binding and unwinding. Most members of this family contain domains flanking the core that can confer RNA substrate specificity and guide the helicase to a specific RNA. However, the in vivo RNA substrates of most helicases are currently not defined. The DEAD-box helicase Hera fromThermus thermophiluscontains a helicase core, followed by a dimerization domain and an RNA binding domain that folds into an RNA recognition motif (RRM). The RRM mediates high affinity binding to an RNA hairpin, and an adjacent duplex is then unwound by the helicase core. Hera is a cold-shock protein, and has been suggested to act as an RNA chaperone under cold-shock conditions. Using crosslinking immunoprecipitation of Hera/RNA complexes and sequencing, we show that Hera binds to a large fraction ofT. thermophilusRNAs under normal-growth and cold-shock conditions without a strong sequence preference, in agreement with a structure-specific recognition of RNAs and a general function in RNA metabolism. Under cold-shock conditions, Hera is recruited to RNAs with high propensities to form stable secondary structures. We show that selected RNAs identified, including a set of tRNAs, bind to Hera in vitro, and activate the Hera helicase core. Gene ontology analysis reveals an enrichment of genes related to translation, including mRNAs of ribosomal proteins, tRNAs, tRNA ligases, and tRNA-modifying enzymes, consistent with a key role of Hera in ribosome and tRNA metabolism.
Determination of primary microRNA processing in clinical samples by targeted pri-miR-sequencing
Authors: Conrad Thomas , Ntini Evgenia , Lang Benjamin , Cozzuto Luca , Andersen Jesper B. , Marquardt Jens U. , Ponomarenko Julia , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano , Vang Ørom Ulf A.
Published: July 2020

MicroRNA expression is important for gene regulation and deregulated microRNA expression is often observed in diseases such as cancer. The processing of primary microRNA transcripts is an important regulatory step in microRNA biogenesis. Due to low expression level and association with chromatin, primary microRNAs are challenging to study in clinical samples where input material is limited. Here, we present a high-sensitivity targeted method to determine processing efficiency of several hundred primary microRNAs from total RNA that requires relatively few RNA sequencing reads. We validate the method using RNA from HeLa cells and show the applicability to clinical samples by analyzing RNA from normal liver and hepatocellular carcinoma. We identify 24 primary microRNAs with significant changes in processing efficiency from normal liver to hepatocellular carcinoma, among those the highly expressed miRNA-122 and miRNA-21, demonstrating that differential processing of primary microRNAs is occurring and could be involved in disease. With our method presented here we provide means to study pri-miRNA processing in disease from clinical samples.
HOLSTEIN BREED LACTATION YIELD IN THE SOUTHERN FOREST-STEPPE ZONE OF PRE-URAL
Authors: Mudarisov Rinat , Khakimov Ismagil , Semenov Vladimir , Kulmakova Natal'y
Published: July 2020

The purpose of the research is to increase the efficiency of Holstein cows of different breeds in the southern forest-steppe zone of the Pre-Urals. Due to the lack of highly productive dairy cattle, Holstein cows are imported to Russia from different countries. Imported animals have different adaptability, productivity, terms of economic use, and prof-itability. For the first time on the stud farm «Alekseevsky» state owned located in Ufa district Republic of Bashkorto-stan a comparative evaluation of body conformation, lactation yield and physical and chemical indicators of Hol-stein milk of different selections in terms of adaptive technology. Cows of Hungarian selection have a stronger con-formation, proportion, length, well-developed body, as evidenced by boniness and lengthiness. Hungarian cows dominate over German and Finnish cows in body weight by 11.2 and 22.5 kg (P<0.05). These features led to the superiority of animals of Hungarian origin in milk productivity with the same adaptive technology of keeping and feeding. During the third lactation, milk yield of Hungarian origin was 736.6 kg (P<0.05) more than that of German-bred, and 766.7 kg than that of Finnish cows. Hungarian average milk yield of Hungarian breed for three lactation periods was bigger 521.5 kg (P<0.05) and 625.1 kg (P<0.05), respectively. German breed had the highest fat con-tent (3.3%), and Hungarian cows the highest protein content (3.3%). There were no significant differences between the animals of the studied groups in terms of productive longevity (3.26-3.38 lactations). Cows of Hungarian origin for all the time of use had basic fat content and protein more by 5.5 and 6.0%, compared with their herdmate, which increases revenue by 9.9 and 10.8 thousand rubles more than from cows of German and Finnish selection.
PRODUCTIVE LONGEVITY OF COWS WITH DIFFERENT STRESS RESISTANCE
Authors: Chupsheva Nina , Karamaev Sergey , Karamayeva Anna
Published: July 2020

The research goal is to increase the duration of the period of productive use of cows in modern complexes for milk production. The object of research is cows of the newly created intra-breed middle Volga type of black-and-white breed, culled for various reasons from the herd in the period from 2016 to 2018. All animals for further statistical processing of the studied indicators were divided into four groups, taking into account the type of stress resistance according to the method of E. p. Kokorina in the modification described by E. N. Letyagina. It was found that all hematological indicators decrease with increasing stress resistance in cows, except for the content of white blood cells. An increase in the concentration of white blood cells in the blood by 6.8-41.9% is probably a protective reaction of the body. Different reactivity of cows to the action of stress factors has an impact on the natural resistance of their body. A decrease in BASC by 3.2-10.5% was found, LASC –
by 3.5-9.0%, FUNK-by 1.8-7.3%. When stress resistance decreases, the concentration of immunoglobulins in the blood decreases: IgG-by 3.9 – 11.2%, IgM-by 1.1 – 22.5%, IgA-by 3.4 – 24.1%. Studies have shown that cows of the first type of stress was superior to their peers with high stress-STU life expectancy at 262,6-1264,8 day (11,6-100%; P<0,05-0,001); in the long-STI period of productive use – on 0,2-2,5 lactation (4,7-125%; P<0.001); the magnitude of the average milk yield per lactation on 487-2175 kg of milk (8,5-53.6 percent; P<0,05-0,001); the value of lifetime milk yield –
for 3340-19924 kg of milk (13.5-245.5%; P<0.01-0.001); for milk yield per 1 day of life-0.2-4.7 kg
(1,8-73,4%; P<0,001), on the 1st day of lactation – 2,3-5,5 kg (13,9-41,4%; P<0,001). It is recommended that the" breeding core " of the herd be equipped with animals of types I and II of stress resistance. When using type II stress resistance cows, additional attention should be paid to the milk productivity of their mothers when selecting breeding bulls.
INFLUENCE OF COW FATNESS PRIOR CALVING ON THE QUALITY OF THE FIRST LACTATION YIELD COLOSTRUM
Authors: Bakayeva Larisa , Karamayeva Anna , Karamaev Sergey
Published: July 2020

The aim of the research is improving the quality of dairy breed colostrum by regulating their fatness before the calv-ing. Research was carried out in 2018-2019 in the conditions of dairy breed complexes of SEC «Yuzhny»,
LLC «Zvezda», LLC «Radna» of the Samara region on cows of: Bestuzhevskaya; Black-and-White of domestic selection; Holstein, imported from Germany; Ayrshire from Finland. The chemical composition, physiological prop-erties and content of immunoglobulins were studied in colostrum of the first lactation yield, 30-60 minutes after the calving. It has been found that if the fatness decreases below 3.6-4.0 points, the fat in the colostrum of Bestu-zhevskaya breed decreases by 0.5-1.2%, Back-and-White – by 0.5-0.9%, Holstein – by 0.7-1.6%, Ayrshire – by 0.5-1.4%, the protein, respectively by 1.9-5.5; 0.7-1.5; 0.5-1.3; 1.1-4.3%. If the fatness increases above 4.0 points, fat and protein in the colostrum also decreases. Colostrum of all milk breeds studied, showed that its acidity meets the phiziological requirements, with the exception of Holstein breed with fatness below 3.0 points (44.5ºT). When the fatness decreased below the optimum, the content of immunoglobulins in the colostrum lowed too, respectively, in breeds by 8.1-24.5; 5.3-12.9; 6.1-16.6; 6.7-22.7%, with an increase of 4.2; 1.9; 7.4; 4.9%. Thus, the reduction or increase of breed fatness, compared to the optimal level (3.6-4.0 points), leads to a decrease of main components in colostrum including density, acidity, and the most important point a decrease in the content of immunoglobulins, which perform a protective function newborn calves.
(Re)konstruowanie narracji – działanie w przestrzeni publicznej – edukacja
Authors: Kubiszyn Marta
Published: July 2020

(Re-)constructing Narrative – Acting in Public Space – Education. Post‑memory of the Holocaust of Lublin Jews: A Case Study

Although originally the term ‘post-memory’ referred to the experiences and memories of the survivors that influenced the biographies of their children, in the following years its meaning was extended and the concept started to be used to describe the processes of transmitting the memory of any traumatic experience within any group, not necessarily bound by blood. In the case of Lublin, where one third of the pre-war community consisted of Jews, most of whom were murdered during World War II, the position of non-Jewish vicarious witnesses seems to be particularly important. This article discusses some aspects of the Holocaust post-memory discourse referring to the cultural activities of the ‘Grodzka Gate – NN Theatre’ Centre. Research questions will concern the artistic language and means of expression of these projects as well as the aesthetic codes that are being used by vicarious witnesses.
Dyskursy postpamięci we współczesnym transnarodowym filmie niemieckim
Authors: Fiuk Ewa
Published: July 2020

Discourses of Post-memory in Contemporary Transnational German Film

The article is dedicated to the problem of trauma and death shown in contemporary transnational (made by directors living in Germany, but of non-German origin) German feature, documentary and experimental film. It raises the question of how the medium of film within its various narration and depiction modes (re)creates memory and post-memory, and at the same time it can be seen as a way to reclaim history in its personal or cultural dimension. The following films have been discussed: Totentraum (1995) and In fremder Erde (2001) by Ayhan Salar, Passing Drama (1999) by Angela Melitopoulos and The Cut (2014) by Fatih Akin. For this purpose, the author has implemented inter alia Aleida and Jan Assmann’s theory of memory.
Del Ferreyrazo al Partido Revolucionario de los Trabajadores. Un análisis de la trayectoria política de Gregorio Flores (1971-1972)
Authors: Barraza José
Published: July 2020

El presente artículo pretende analizar un aspecto sustancial de la vida y obra de Gregorio “Goyo” Flores tanto en su trayectoria individual como en su carácter de representante de una tendencia colectiva dentro de la clase obrera cordobesa y argentina. Solamente abordaremos su ingreso en las filas del Partido Revolucionario de los Trabajadores (PRT) entre 1971-1972. Consideramos que el ingreso de un militante a una organización partidaria es un proceso que no tiene un desarrollo lineal. Por el contrario, está marcado por múltiples contradicciones donde se expresan, por un lado, la paulatina comprensión por parte del sujeto de las ideas, programas y acciones del partido; y por el otro, las redes sociales que el agente va tejiendo, y que se reflejan en los vínculos políticos que establece con militantes y dirigentes de dicha organización.
Um lugar chamado Macondo
Authors: Cruz Ghiovana Da Rosa Machado
Published: July 2020

O texto deste artigo compõe dissertação de mestrado do programa de pós graduação em estudo de cultura e território pela universidade federal do Tocantins (PPGCULT- UFT) em produção. Buscamos fazer uma analise na perspectiva fenomenológica de alguns elementos presentes na obra Cem Anos de Solidão do escritor colombiano Gabriel García Márquez. No artigo aqui apresentado a nossa intenção será analisar Macondo (que é a aldeia, posteriormente cidade, criada pelo escritor colombiano) como lugar-literário-simbólico. Daremos destaque para a casa dos Buendía e a sua importância no romance, como a mesma, também, se constitui lugar. Nos apoiando em Dardel, Tuan, Bachelard, Marandola Jr teceremos nossa interpretação de alguns aspectos ligados a constituição do lugar presentes no romance em estudo.
Representações da ciência e da mulher cientista na série animada “Hora de Aventura”
Authors: Montalvão Neto Alberto Lopo , Mioni Nakamura Tayna , Vieira da Silva Francisco
Published: July 2020

Este trabalho busca compreender as condições de produção de sentido no discurso de/sobre Ciência, mobilizando conceitos como relações de sentido, mecanismo de antecipação e relações de força na série animada “Hora de Aventura”. Ao fazer esse recorte, a análise gira em torno da construção da personagem Princesa Jujuba, a saber, a cientista da série. Adota-se como referencial as noções da Análise de Discurso de linha francesa, a partir dos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos iniciados por Michel Pêcheux, principalmente nos trabalhos de Eni Orlandi. As análises apontam que as representações presentes na animação analisada oscilam entre duas caraterizações: ora é construída uma princesa que se remete à imagem de cientista e de ciência de forma neutra, objetiva e que exalta a superioridade do conhecimento científico, ora são construídas representações com vieses humanizados, exaltando-se aspectos histórico-sociais.
High average power transform limited picosecond laser with flexible repetition rate and pulse duration
Authors: Kiefer Daniel , Hepp Sebastian , Walther Thomas
Published: July 2020

This Letter presents a pulsed, Fourier transform limited 1030 nm laser with a variable pulse duration between 47 and 733 ps resulting in a spectral bandwidth of roughly 1 to 10 GHz. The laser system is based on ytterbium-doped fiber amplifiers and acousto-optic and electro-optic modulation technology. The repetition rate can be set arbitrarily between 1 and 10 MHz. After three sequential amplifier stages, the average output power reaches a maximum of over 60 W. The particular fiber amplifier geometry allows to prevent the emergence of unwanted nonlinear effects. Due to its unique features, the laser system lends itself to a variety of applications wherever flexibility in terms of pulse duration and corresponding Fourier limited bandwidth are required, such as laser cooling at storage rings, lidar applications, or coherent molecular spectroscopy.
Programa de conservación y recuperación de Boerhavia repens L. (Nyctaginaceae), especie en peligro de extinción en la Comunidad Valenciana (España)
Authors: Ferrando-Pardo Inmaculada , Ferrer Gallego Pablo , Alberti Francisco J. , Pérez-Botella Joan , Carchano Roger , Gisbert Carlos , Laguna Emilio
Published: July 2020

Boerhavia repens está incluida en el Catálogo Valenciano de Especies de Flora Amenazadas de la Comunidad Valenciana (Orden 6/2013) en la categoría “En peligro de Extinción”. La única población española conocida está localizada en Teulada (Alicante, España), siendo la segunda población conocida en toda Europa. La población alicantina desapareció en 2012, y hasta el momento se han realizado 10 plantaciones en la provincia de Alicante. De un total de 615 plantas introducidas se ha registrado una tasa de supervivencia del 8,7% (54 plantas) en el último censo. Diferentes trabajos con la germinación de las semillas y cultivo de esta planta han sido realizados en el CIEF.
La praxis política dels Jurats de la ciutat de València. Segles XIV-XV
Authors: Bernabeu Borja Sandra
Published: July 2020

L’anàlisi detallada dels compromisos personals i institucionals assumits públicament pels Jurats de la ciutat de València, en cronologies molt concretes, permet observar quines eren les principals preocupacions del govern municipal i avaluar en elles el grau de preeminència dels interessos del patriciat urbà. El creixent nombre de competències i obligacions adquirides per aquest executiu de govern se sincronitza amb el propi desenvolupament diacrònic de l’administració municipal. Les dades contingudes en l’acta del jurament institucional dels Jurats, documentada anualment des de 1325 als Manuals de Consells (llibres d’actes municipals) ens possibilita aquest estudi de base documental que pretén mostrar quina era la pràctica política als segles baixmedievals de la principal magistratura municipal de la ciutat de València.
Pemanfaatan Citra Satelit Penginderaan Jauh dan Sistem Informasi Geografi Untuk Analisis Nilai Ekonomi Ekosistem Pesisir. Studi kasus: Desa Teluk Limau, Kecamatan Jebus, Kabupaten Bangka Barat, Provinsi Bangka Belitung
Authors: Prayudha Bayu , Hafizt Muhammad , Vimono Indra Bayu
Published: July 2020

The Application of Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) for Economic Value Analysis of Coastal Ecosystem. Case Study: Teluk Limau Vilage, Jebus District, West Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Province. Coral reefs, seagrass, and mangroves are important ecosystems as the source of nutrients and as the habitat provider for marine biotas. Sustainability of those ecosystems is important for Indonesians while many of them lived in the coastal region. However, information on those ecosystems is still lacked, because most of the area is difficult to reach. Remote sensing would provide a possibility to address the problem. Remote sensing can present a spatial description of a certain area, so it gives a better understanding for the policy maker to manage their area. One of the utilization of this information is to calculate the economic value of coastal ecosystems. The valuation would involve spatial parameters of both the extent of habitat and the length of ecosystem-protected coastline as a multiplier factor. Those parameters can be obtained quickly, easily and accurately using remote sensing. The purpose of this research is to apply remote sensing data for the economic valuation of coastal ecosystems. The method used was the combination of image processing of LANDSAT-8 satellite data and GIS to calculate spatial parameters of habitat, and surrogate market prices approach to assess the economic value of the ecosystems. The research was conducted in Teluk Limau Village, Jebus District, West Bangka Regency, Babel Province. This research has mapped four habitat classes of the coastal ecosystem including coral, macroalgae bed, bare substrate, and mangrove. Based on the spatial information of the map, the economic value of coral reef and mangrove was 141.4 billion rupiahs and 31.1 billion rupiahs respectively.