bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Promoter Region Sequence Variations in Relation to Antibiotic Resistance of Methicillin- Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Habib Farjana , Roy Dipa , Nity Momotaj , Chaity Arnaba Saha , Haque Ariful
Published: February 2022

Multidrug resistant bacterial strains are one of the concerns of healthcare sector. Among these, Methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the major hospitals acquired multidrug resistant strains. MRSA shows it is resistant against methicillin and other penicillin like antibiotics by producing PBP2a (penicillin binding protein 2a) which is encoded by its mecA gene. In this process mecR1 and mecI gene act as regulator of mecA gene. The aim of this study is to identify sequence variance located in mecA, mecR1 and mecI promoter region and the effect of those changes in relation to pathogenicity of these MRSA strains. In this current research, work wound infections samples were collected from 90 patients who were infected during post-surgical mamagement. Samples were collected from Rajshahi Medical college hospital, Bangladesh. In antibiotic sensitivity test, MRSA was found 100% sensitive against only Choramphenicol and Bacitracin. It also shows partial resistance against Amikacin, Impenem, Doxycycline, Gentamycin and Neomycin. In HRM, analysis six types of genotypes (TT, AA, CC, GG, GA and CT) were identified in mecA, mecR1 and mecI genes. Two types of mutation (T>C and G>A) were found in current study. This HRM analysis was further correlate with antibiotic sensitivity test in terms of antibiotic resistance and sequence variance.
The Presence of Ageism Among Slovenian Adolescents Surveyed About Dementia-Related Knowledge
Authors: Felc Brina , Felc Zlata
Published: February 2022

Objectives: Due to the significant increase in the number of people aged over 65, both dementia and ageism are on the rise in Slovenia. Without data on knowledge of dementia and the occurrence of ageism towards old people among adolescents, it is difficult to introduce measures to reduce and prevent them. Aim: To asses dementia-related knowledge with a focus on comparison between female and male adolescents and whether any stereotype about the elderly is expressed among them. Methods: 1128 students (aged 14 -19) from non-health related secondary schools in Slovenia completed the survey. In the questionnaire with twenty claims of dementia, one contained stereotype: »Impaired memory is normal part of getting old«. Results: Responses to claims of dementia ranged from 4 to 20 points, with participants responding to an average of 71.5% of claims correctly (M = 14.30; SD = 2.56). Girls showed better knowledge of dementia than boys (M = 14.63; SD = 2.36 vs. M = 13.63; SD = 2.82; p<0.05). Suprisingly, with the stereotypical and discriminatory claim: »Impaired memory is normal part of getting old« as many as 86.0 % of girls and 81.9 % of boys (p>0.05) agreed. Conclusions: Dementia-related knowledge is satisfactory, but lower in male than female adolescents. The research results point to the need of introducing gender-specific formal and non-formal education on dementia. Furthermore, the results of our study show that most adolescents of both genders already think stereotypically about the elderlies, which can lead to ageism. The area should be researched further.
Evaluation by RT-PCR of the Nasopharyngal Carriage Rate of SARS-CoV-2 Among Travelers Leaving the Country (Senegal)
Authors: R Diagne , M Niane , M Ndao , Sow Aminata , Diop Abdoulaye , Samba Fatou , Johnson Oumar , Ndione Coura Suzanne , Sané Famara
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, discovered at the end of 2019, led to a pandemic as early as March 2020, affecting all areas of life, and travelers were not spared. The objective of this work was to estimate the frequency of nasopharyngeal carriage of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR in travelers leaving the country (Senegal) and to determine the factors associated with this carriage. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the National Public Health Laboratory (LNSP) of Thiès from December 2020 to February 2021. It included 500 travelers selected by the convenience non- random sampling method. Demographic and clinical data were collected using a standardized form. The RT-PCR test was performed using nasopharyngeal samples. Results: 480 patients were declared asymptomatic. The RT-PCR positivity rate was 6% overall. The majority of patients came from the Thiès region (80%).The average age of the patients was 39 years old. The majority of patients (60%) were male. 2% of travelers had at least one medical comorbidity (diabetes, asthma and / or obesity). The most frequent clinical signs were cold 10% and cough 3.3%. Conclusion: Our results showed a low proportion of COVID-19 positive travelers. These patients were mainly elderly, male and asymptomatic.
Pengujian Bandwidth Pada Sistem Setting Bonding Mikrotik Otomatis Menggunakan Library Paramiko
Authors: Perkasa Kaneo Dria , Sudaryanto Aris , Hartono Elvianto Dwi
Published: February 2022

Teknik otomatisasi jaringan saat ini semakin berkembang, salah satunya adalah menggunakan Phyton yang terinspirasi dari Software Defined Network. Hanya saja Network Automation berada satu tingkat di bawah Software Defined Network. Metode Network Automation yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini bertujuan mempermudah dan mempercepat waktu konfigurasi jaringan. Berdasarkan pengujian yang telah dilakukan dengan membandingkan bandwidth sebelum dan sesudah bonding, bandwidth tertinggi sebelum bonding adalah 16.1 Gbps, sedangkan bandwidth tertinggi setelah bonding adalah 16.5 Gbps.
SWOT ANALYSIS MODEL OF ONLINE SINGLE SUBMISSION (OSS) SERVICE QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN DPMPTSP EAST JAVA PROVINCE
Authors: Irfani Kamelia , Naziyah Firda Ainun , Widiyarta Agus
Published: February 2022

The achievement of public welfare can only be done by providing the best and optimal public services. The urgency of improving the quality of public services is actually the government's commitment so that people can get services that are easy, cheap, fast, and precise. The phenomenon of complex licensing service processes in complicated procedures and administration that takes a long time has resulted in a technology-based innovation known as Online Single Submission (OSS). This study aims to determine the strategy for improving the quality of Online Single Submission (OSS) services at DPMPTSP in East Java which is carried out by using a qualitative descriptive approach and measurement based on a SWOT analysis (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, Threat). The results showed that the indicators of strengths include the adequacy of the quantity and quality of Human Resources (HR) of civil servants. In addition, it also relates to the program of socialization and mentoring activities which are the key strategies in improving service quality. Indicators of weaknesses were identified in security officers who also served as front office officers. In addition, there are also findings that service operating hours are less than optimal, so that a transformation strategy towards digitalization based on online connections is needed, and the creation of a civil service disciplinary supervision system. Then, the opportunities indicator describes the existence of service program innovation that is balanced with efforts to develop IT systems (e-government), However a development strategy that focuses on understanding the community through the creation of informative and educational content in order to create effective and efficient services is also urgently needed. Threat indicator states that the level of knowledge and also the ability of the community to use IT is low, so it requires a strategy to empower the community through providing IT media learning simulation.
Primary and secondary prevention of uterine cervical cancer: Up-To-Date Information, Guidelines, and the need for their application in Greece
Authors: Mitsopoulou Dimitra , Papathanasiou Angeliki-Astero , Kalampokas Emmanouil , Vlahos Nikolaos
Published: February 2022

Background/Aim: Human papilloma virus (HPV) and uterine cervical cancer (UCC) are causatively related. In Greece, evidence-based guidelines for primary and secondary prevention of UCC have yet to be developed and applied in clinical practice. Our purpose here is to present such guidelines together with up-to-date data on HPV screening protocols. Methods: We surveyed current literature on UCC prevention, national and international data on UCC, and national guidelines on UCC preventive measures in various countries, as well as their role in UCC control. Results: It is well known that clinical practice guidelines optimize patient care. Introduction of guidelines regarding primary and secondary prevention of UCC express a favorable outcome of control and elimination of the disease. This is outlined in screening protocols of several countries worldwide. The lack of such guidelines in Greece in previous years led to misinformation of both healthcare professionals and general population. The development of clear and up-to-date guidelines in Greece during 2021 constitutes an important step that will play a pivotal role in UCC prevention in Greece. What needs to be ensured is on the one hand that all healthcare professionals are informed about these guidelines and on the other hand the application of these guidelines an everyday clinical practice. Conclusions: Systematic use of primary and secondary preventive measures and screening protocols are efficient in both control and elimination of UCC. Based on our search and our clinical experience, it is imperative for all Obstetrics and Gynecology clinicians in Greece to be familiar with all relevant screening and vaccination programs available.
Improving irrigation management on hillslope pastures
Authors: Langer Stephanie
Published: February 2022

Improving irrigation management in hillslope catchments to mitigate water and nutrient losses requires a better understanding of soil hydrology. A field trial was set up in a small catchment on a centre-pivot irrigated dairy farm. Runoff was monitored over two irrigation seasons across a hillslope and at the catchment outlet. Seasonal rainfall variability influenced the start, frequency and amount of irrigation applied. Irrigation stared earlier in the second season due to a large soil moisture deficit. Nearly 40% of the runoff events in the second season were directly linked to irrigation.

The APSIM model was used to investigate the effects irrigation management on runoff and pasture production. Simulations suggest that changing irrigation could increase pasture yield by 10%, but lead to potentially greater runoff. Using soil moisture to control irrigation improved performance, although where soil moisture was monitored was important. Using frequent and smaller application depths resulted in yield increase and less runoff. Simulation of variable rate irrigation did not produce further gains. The best approach to reduce overall runoff losses was to maintain a soil moisture deficit after irrigation. The impact of changing irrigation management over the whole farm system and its effect on the environment needs further research.
The effect of winter fodder beet or kale allocation on behaviour and blood metabolite status of non-lactating dairy cows
Authors: Dalley Dawn , Edwards John , Masterson Emma , Woods Roshean
Published: February 2022

Fodder beet (FB) was at first rapidly adopted by farmers, however, there is uncertainty around the impact of feeding high rates of FB on metabolic diseases and cow behaviour. This study aimed to establish if there was an effect of crop type and feed allocation on blood metabolites and behaviour of dairy cows.

In winter 2017, 328 mixed-aged pregnant non-lactating Friesian x Jersey cows were allocated to feeding treatments of either FB or kale, offered at two allocation rates: “target” (to achieve 0.5 BCS gain) or “high” (ad libitum allocation), supplemented with pasture baleage. Blood metabolites were monitored for 20 animals per treatment, 15 of those animals per treatment had an activity sensor fitted for 8 days in late July.

Cows fed FB had higher plasma magnesium and lower sodium, phosphate, total protein and urea levels than cows fed kale. The FB cows spent less time lying (9.4 vs 11.1 h/d), walked more (2113 vs 1737 steps/day), had fewer lying bouts per day (6.1 vs 9.3 bouts/day), but had longer bout duration (102 vs 81 min) than kale cows. These results indicate differences between winter crops in susceptibility to metabolic diseases and grazing activity which require further investigation.
Farming with reduced winter cropping in southern New Zealand: the risks and practicalities
Authors: Stevens David , Canton Matt , Harpham Scott
Published: February 2022

Winter cropping practices to provide feed for livestock are being challenged by new freshwater and animal welfare regulations. Investigations to reduce reliance on winter forage crops in southern New Zealand tested farming resilience and practical on-farm all-grass wintering using 60% of the 13,900 breeding ewes at Mararoa Station in the Te Anau basin. Testing the system robustness over time, using modelling of climatic variation, demonstrated that reducing the area of winter forage crop by 25% increased EBITDA by approximately 6% and had similar variations in net earnings over a 10-year period of pasture and crop yield fluctuations. On-farm testing highlighted the need for long-term planning and active management of both the feed resource and animals. Active engagement and contributions of staff were the key to implementing a Less-crop system. Measuring pastures and animal responses provided data to inform key decision making. The success of this test demonstrated the need for staff engagement and accurate implementation from the management team on the ground.  The team needed to be open minded, well planned and have a willingness to implement new practices and learn on the job, providing a platform for future success. Forward planning using Farmax modelling provided a framework for the implementation of the practical test and provided confidence to test future reductions in winter forage crops. Changes to whole-farm practices need to incorporate activities throughout the year to implement significant reductions in winter forage crop use.
Nitrate effects on N2 fixation, growth and feed quality of lucerne and perennial lupin
Authors: Burrows Eilish , Mills Annamaria , Dash Dan , Jack Dave , Andrews Mitchell , Black Alistair
Published: February 2022

The effects of NO3– supply (0–500 kg N/ha) on total plant dry weight (DW), shoot N content and nutritional quality, and the proportion of plant N derived from the atmosphere (%Ndfa) were determined for lucerne and perennial lupin using 15NO3– under glasshouse conditions. Fodder beet was used as a non-legume control plant. The experiment was repeated. In both the initial and repeat experiments, total plant DW, shoot N% and shoot nutritional quality for lucerne and perennial lupin were not affected by NO3– supply. Total plant DW increased 10-fold and shoot N% tripled for fodder beet with increased N supply. In the initial experiment, the %Ndfa for lucerne decreased from 89 to 37% with increased N supply from 0 to 500 kg N/ha: comparable values for perennial lupin were 96 to 64%. In the repeat experiment, %Ndfa decreased from 90 to 49% and 93 to 65% for lucerne and perennial lupin, respectively, with increased NO3– supply from 0 to 500 kg N/ha. Both legumes showed an increased reliance on NO3– with increased soil NO3– level, but even at 500 kg N/ha (similar to N in sheep urine patch) perennial lupin obtained much of its N from N2 fixation.
The future of farming for Southland
Authors: Grant Jeff
Published: February 2022

The future of Agriculture in Southland is facing anotherperiod of uncertainty, with the impact of covid19 andits possible long-term effects not fully. However, someindications are available regarding changing foodpatterns, disruptive shipping routes and the logisticsof ‘just in time’ delivery that are being tested, borderrequirements changing and continuing disruptivetechnology changing the way consumers purchaseall forms of consumable goods including food. Thissame uncertainty applies to the rest of New Zealandagriculture. The arable, Dairy, beef, sheep, and deersectors are all trying to work through and prepare forwhat this uncertain future may look like, and how it willshape the future viability of farming enterprises.
The Benefits of Claiming Your Early Research Using Preprints
Authors: Gurstelle Jon , Marchant Emily
Published: February 2022

This poster was presented at the APSA Annual Conference 2021, and covers the benefits of sharing early research via preprints, with usage statistics, user feedback and case studies from APSA Preprints, the American Political Science Association's preprint service.
Building a Supportive Mentoring Network
Authors: Mendoza Mary Anne S. , Vortherms Samantha A.
Published: February 2022

Building a successful mentoring network is a key strategy for thriving in graduate school both personally and professionally. This chapter lays out the who, what, where, when, how, and whys of building your own network. This manuscript is part of Strategies for Navigating Graduate School and Beyond, a forthcoming volume for those interested in pursuing graduate education in political science (Fall 2022 publication).
Edukasi Perilaku Hidup Bersih Dan Sehat Dalam Rumah Tangga Terhadap Pengetahuan Kader Kesehatan
Authors: Rusdianingseh Rusdianingseh , Hatmanti Nety Mawarda , Winarno Didik Dwi
Published: February 2022

PHBS (Perilaku Hidup Bersih dan Sehat) merupakan hal yang sangat penting dalam rumah tangga. Masa pandemi covid-19 membuat kita lebih lama tinggal di dalam rumah sehingga PHBS rumah tangga perlu ditingkatkan, sebagai salah satu hal yang dapat meningkatkan kesehatn keluarga. Tujuan dalam penelitian ini adalah untuk menegetahui pengaruh edukasi PHBS rumah tangga terhadap tingkat pengetahuan kader kesehatan sebelum dan setelah diberikan edukasi. Jenis penelitian ini adalah analitik dengan teknik quasy eksperimen dengan pendekatan pre post test two groups. Populasi target adalah seluruh kader kesehatan yang aktif di wilayah Kebonsari Surabaya dengan kriteria yang ditetapkan oleh peneliti adalah usia dewasa di atas 21–59 tahun, bisa membaca dan menulis dengan baik, tinggal di wilayah Kebonsari surabaya. Sampel sebesar 66 responden yang dibagi menjadi dua kelompok yaitu kelompok intervensi 33 responden dan kelompok kontrol 33 responden. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah kuesioner tingkat pengetahuan yang diberikan sebelum dan setelah intervensi edukasi PHBS rumah tangga. Data dianalisis menggunakan uji Wilcoxon Signed Rank dan Mann Whitney dengan tingkat kemaknaan α = 0,05. Hasil uji beda post-test kelompok ekperimen dan kontrol menggunakan uji Mann Whitney didapatkan nilai ρ = 0,000 dengan tingkat kemaknaan α = 0,05 yang berarti ada pengaruh edukasi PHBS rumah tangga melalui media cetak lembar balik terhadap pengetahuan kader kesehatan. Simpulan dari penelitian ini bahwa terdapat pengaruh edukasi PHBS rumah tangga melalui media lembar balik terhadap pengetahuan kader kesehatan..
Hubungan Aspek Kualitas Pelayanan Dengan Kepuasan Pasien Rawat Inap
Authors: Maryana Maryana , Christiany Maya
Published: February 2022

Kepuasan pasien adalah salah satu indikator kualitas pelayanan yang diberikan. Tujuan penelitian ini Untuk mengetahui aspek kualitas pelayanan terhadap kepuasan pasien rawat inap Di RSUD Depati Bahrin Sungailiat Bangka. Untuk wilayah kerja di Rumah Sakit Umum Depati Bahrin Sungailiat, kepuasan pasien rawat inap meningkat 3 tahun terakhir. Pada tahun 2018 sebesar 81,50% , pada tahun 2019 sebesar 83%, pada tahun 2020 sebesar 84,56%. Tujuan penelitian yaitu mengetahui faktor yang berhubungan dengan kepuasan pasien. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan desain cross sectional dan uji chi-square dengan hasil berupa analisa bivariat dan analisa univariat. Populasi penelitian yaitu pasien rawat inap pada bulan Juni 2021. Sampel penelitian yaitu sebagian besar berusia > 18 tahun dari populasi penelitian yang berjumlah 83 responden. Instrumen penelitian menggunakan kuesioner yang berisi 21 pertanyaan. Hasil penelitian diketahui ada hubungan antara kehandalan p value (0,000), daya tanggap p value (0,000), bukti fisik p value (0,029), jaminan p value (0,000), empati p value (0,038) dengan kepuasan pasien dalam pelayanan rawatinap. Saran dari penelitian ini adalah meningkatkan kinerja maupun kualitas dari faktor kehandalan, daya tanggap, bukti fisik, jaminan, dan empati agar indikator kepuasan pasien rawat inap meningkat.
Penggunaan Electronic Health Record (EHR) Dalam Keperawatan Jiwa : Literature Review
Authors: Fadhal Muchtarul
Published: February 2022

Dalam keperawatan jiwa, data riwayat penyakit dan pengobatan sangat diperlukan dalam pemberian asuhan keperawatan. Kesulitan pasien gangguan jiwa untuk menceritakan riwayat kesehatan dan status kesehatannya menjadi kesulitan bagi perawat dalam pengumpulan data, sedangkan data tersebut sangat diperlukan untuk menegakkan diagnosa keperawatan. Untuk itu dibutuhkan pendokumentasian yang terstandar dengan format baku, akurat dan sederhana. Electronic Health Record (EHR) adalah salah satu teknologi pendokumentasian yang sudah terstandar dengan baik. Tujuannya untuk mengidentifikasi artikel penelitian tentang Penggunaaan Electronic Health Record (EHR). Metode tinjauan pustaka adalah untuk menganalisis artikel ilmiah dari 4 database yaitu BMC Health Service Research, BMC Medical Information & Decision Making, Ebscohost, dan Google Scholar. Kriteria inklusi Research Article, Tahun 2011-2021, Bahasa Inggris. Didapatkan 10 jurnal dengan menggunakan perumusan PICO. Teknik analisis artikel penelitian yaitu dengan format tabel yang berisi penulis, judul, tahun, metode (desain, sampel dan analisis), dan hasil. Berdasarkan 10 artikel penelitian yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa EHR yang sudah terintegrasi antar pelayanan kesehatan, membuat akses antar layanan kesehatan terbuka sehingga kualitas perawatan klien menjadi lebih baik. Semua artikel menunjukkan hasil selisih yang berbeda-beda.
Pneumatospinning Biomimetic Scaffolds for Meniscus Tissue Engineering
Authors: Dorthé Erik W. , Williams Austin B. , Grogan Shawn P. , D’Lima Darryl D.
Published: February 2022

Nanofibrous scaffolds fabricated via electrospinning have been proposed for meniscus tissue regeneration. However, the electrospinning process is slow, and can only generate scaffolds of limited thickness with densely packed fibers, which limits cell distribution within the scaffold. In this study, we explored whether pneumatospinning could produce thicker collagen type I fibrous scaffolds with higher porosity, that can support cell infiltration and neo-fibrocartilage tissue formation for meniscus tissue engineering. We pneumatospun scaffolds with solutions of collagen type I with thicknesses of approximately 1 mm in 2 h. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a mix of fiber sizes with diameters ranging from 1 to 30 µm. The collagen scaffold porosity was approximately 48% with pores ranging from 7.4 to 100.7 µm. The elastic modulus of glutaraldehyde crosslinked collagen scaffolds was approximately 45 MPa, when dry, which reduced after hydration to 0.1 MPa. Mesenchymal stem cells obtained from the infrapatellar fat pad were seeded in the scaffold with high viability (>70%). Scaffolds seeded with adipose-derived stem cells and cultured for 3 weeks exhibited a fibrocartilage meniscus-like phenotype (expressing COL1A1, COL2A1 and COMP). Ex vivo implantation in healthy bovine and arthritic human meniscal explants resulted in the development of fibrocartilage-like neotissues that integrated with the host tissue with deposition of glycosaminoglycans and collagens type I and II. Our proof-of-concept study indicates that pneumatospinning is a promising approach to produce thicker biomimetic scaffolds more efficiently that electrospinning, and with a porosity that supports cell growth and neo-tissue formation using a clinically relevant cell source.
Use of Clodronate Liposomes to Deplete Phagocytic Immune Cells in Drosophila melanogaster and Aedes aegypti
Authors: Ramesh Kumar Jyothsna , Smith Jessica P. , Kwon Hyeogsun , Smith Ryan C.
Published: February 2022

Graphical Abstract

Overview of phagocyte depletion experiments using clodronate liposomes to in Drosophila melanogaster or Aedes aegypti. Created with BioRender.com.
Ckip-1 3′-UTR Attenuates Simulated Microgravity-Induced Cardiac Atrophy
Authors: Zhao Yinglong , Zhong Guohui , Du Ruikai , Zhao Dingsheng , Li Jianwei , Li Yuheng , Xing Wenjuan , Jin Xiaoyan , Zhang Wenjuan , Sun Weijia , Liu Caizhi , Liu Zizhong , Yuan Xinxin , Kan Guanghan , Han Xuan , Li Qi , Chang Yan-Zhong , Li Yingxian , Ling Shukuan
Published: February 2022

Microgravity prominently affected cardiovascular health, which was the gravity-dependent physical factor. Deep space exploration had been increasing in frequency, but heart function was susceptible to conspicuous damage and cardiac mass declined in weightlessness. Understanding of the etiology of cardiac atrophy exposed to microgravity currently remains limited. The 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of casein kinase-2 interacting protein-1 (Ckip-1) was a pivotal mediator in pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling. However, the role of Ckip-1 3′-UTR in the heart during microgravity was unknown. We analyzed Ckip-1 mRNA 3′-UTR and coding sequence (CDS) expression levels in ground-based analogs such as mice hindlimb unloading (HU) and rhesus monkey head-down bed rest model. Ckip-1 3′-UTR had transcribed levels in the opposite change trend with cognate CDS expression in the hearts. We then subjected wild-type (WT) mice and cardiac-specific Ckip-1 3′-UTR-overexpressing mice to hindlimb unloading for 28 days. Our results uncovered that Ckip-1 3′-UTR remarkably attenuated cardiac dysfunction and mass loss in simulated microgravity environments. Mechanistically, Ckip-1 3′-UTR inhibited lipid accumulation and elevated fatty acid oxidation-related gene expression in the hearts through targeting calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase 2 (CaMKK2) and activation of the AMPK-PPARα-CPT1b signaling pathway. These findings demonstrated Ckip-1 3′-UTR was an important regulator in atrophic heart growth after simulated microgravity.
Nutritional Regulation of Mammary Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Thakkar Nikita , Shin Ye Bin , Sung Hoon-Ki
Published: February 2022

The mammary gland is a heterogeneous organ comprising of immune cells, surrounding adipose stromal cells, vascular cells, mammary epithelial, and cancer stem cells. In response to nutritional stimuli, dynamic interactions amongst these cell populations can be modulated, consequently leading to an alteration of the glandular function, physiology, and ultimately disease pathogenesis. For example, obesity, a chronic over-nutritional condition, is known to disrupt homeostasis within the mammary gland and increase risk of breast cancer development. In contrast, emerging evidence has demonstrated that fasting or caloric restriction can negatively impact mammary tumorigenesis. However, how fasting induces phenotypic and functional population differences in the mammary microenvironment is not well understood. In this review, we will provide a detailed overview on the effect of nutritional conditions (i.e., overnutrition or fasting) on the mammary gland microenvironment and its impact on mammary tumor progression.
How the Nature of an Alpha-Nucleophile Determines a Brønsted Type-Plot and Its Reaction Pathways. An Experimental Study
Authors: Campodónico Paola R. , Tapia Ricardo A. , Suárez-Rozas Cristian
Published: February 2022

The reactions between 2-chloro-5-nitro pyrimidine with a serie of α-nucleophile derivatives were kinetically evaluated. The kinetic study was carried out in aqueous media and the data shown an unusual split on the Brønsted type-plot, opening a controversial discussion based on reactivities and possible reaction pathways. These split Brønsted type-plots are discussed over the hypothetical transition state (TS) structures associated to concerted or stepwise mechanisms with emphasis on hydrogen bond interactions between electrophile/nucleophile pair able to determine the reactivities and the plausible reaction routes.
Integrating Authentic Research Into the Emory-Tibet Science Initiative
Authors: Nusslock Robin , Gerardo Nicole M. , Mascaro Jennifer S. , Shreckengost Jacob , Balgopal Meena M.
Published: February 2022

We are at a historic point in which scientists and Tibetan monastics are working together to investigate ancient questions of mind and matter, and to serve the best interests of humanity. To facilitate this collaboration, His Holiness the Dalai Lama supported the development of the Emory University-Tibet Science Initiative (ETSI), which reflects the first major change in the Tibetan monastic curriculum in six centuries. Over the course of a 6-year long curriculum, Tibetan monastics living in India have the opportunity to study science with experts in various disciplines. In 2019, ETSI graduated its first cohort of monastic students from a 6-year “implementation phase,” and now has entered the “sustainability phase.” A goal of the sustainability phase is to broaden the scope of ETSI and begin training monastics through research. The present paper provides an overview of a 3-year Research Training Program being developed for the sustainability phase. We first overview a pilot program that informed feasibility and potential structure for a broader Research Training Program at the monasteries and monastic universities in India. Next, we discuss the conceptual framework for the Research Training Program and four learning objectives that we hope to attain. We then discuss the specifics of the course design for the proposed 3-year research training curriculum, through which our goal is to transition from a more guided training experience to a less guided experience. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities that we expect to encounter in developing and implementing the program.
Legal Framework for Pontocaspian Biodiversity Conservation in the Danube Delta (Romania and Ukraine)
Authors: Gogaladze Aleksandre , Biesmeijer Jacobus C. , Son Mikhail O. , Marushchak Oleksii , Wesselingh Frank P. , Lattuada Matteo , Sandu Cristina , Albrecht Christian , Mihailescu Simona , Raes Niels
Published: February 2022

The declining biodiversity has upsetting consequences for social and economic development and represents a major concern for humanity. Legal and political framework plays an important role in biodiversity conservation planning, implementation, and coordination of actions. Legal provisions are complex and operate on different levels of governance (from supranational to national), which means that the status of single species or populations may be governed by a set of interacting or even conflicting regulations, with increasing complexity for species that occur across national borders. Romania (EU member state) and Ukraine (non-EU member state) exemplify neighboring countries with different governance systems, which share the same endemic aquatic communities inhabiting the transitional zones between freshwater and marine ecosystems, known regionally as Pontocaspian (PC) biota. These communities include flagship species such as sturgeons and less-known crustaceans and mollusks and are severely threatened as a result of human activities. We assessed the legal basis for the protection of PC biota in the Danube Delta and the effectiveness of current conservation approaches based on a review of legal documents and literature, expert opinion, and practitioner reflections regarding PC biodiversity conservation. We found that PC invertebrate species are not adequately addressed in the current legal documents and that the surrogate approach (where protection of umbrella species results in protection of background species) does not work as there is little overlap between the habitats of sturgeons and PC invertebrate communities. Furthermore, the habitat definitions currently used in legal documents lack the level of detail needed to protect PC habitats that are characterized by specific salinity (brackish) conditions. We finish by sketching out recommendations toward improved legal and political frameworks for effective and efficient conservation of PC invertebrate biota.
Cool Excimer Laser-Assisted Angioplasty vs. Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty for Infrapopliteal Arterial Occlusion: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Zhou Mi , Qi Lixing , Gu Yongquan
Published: February 2022

Background

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) has been the conventional therapy to infrapopliteal arterial occlusion. Lately, cool excimer laser-assisted angioplasty has been proposed to be the alternate methods. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective and retrospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of cool excimer laser-assisted angioplasty vs. tibial balloon angioplasty in patients with infrapopliteal arterial occlusion.

Methods and Results

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (all up to April, 2021). All prospective and retrospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials comparing clinical outcomes between cool excimer laser-assisted angioplasty and tibial balloon angioplasty were included. The main endpoints were amputation-free survival (AFS), primary patency (6 months and 12 months) and free from target lesion revascularization (TLR) (3 years). Secondary outcomes included the major amputation (1 year), dissection, embolization and bailout stent. We chose the effect model according to studies' heterogeneity. A total of 122 articles were found. According to inclusion criteria, 6 papers were finally selected for the detailed evaluation. Of the 6 papers, 4 were prospective cohort studies, and 2 were retrospective studies. Compared with PTA, CELA significantly increased the rate of patency (6 months: MD 13.01, 95% CI 3.12-22.90, P < 0.05; 12 months: MD 11.88 95% CI 8.38-15.37, P < 0.05) and the rate freedom from TLR (36 months: MD 7.51 95% CI 0.63-14.40, P < 0.05). There is no statistically difference of AFS, major amputation, dissection, embolization and bailout stent between CELA group and PTA group (MD −2.82, 95% CI −8.86-3.22, P = 0.36; MD −0.17, 95% CI −1.04-0.70, P = 0.39; MD 1.11, 95% CI 0.58-2.10, P = 0.75; MD 0.46, 95% CI 0.11-1.99, P = 0.30; MD 1.89, 95% CI 0.92-3.88, P = 0.09).

Conclusions

CELA had superior clinical (freedom from TLR) and angiographic outcomes (patency rate) for infrapopliteal arterial occlusion at the same time CELA does not have increased intervention-related complications compared to PTA. However, CELA is unable to improve the patient's limb salvage rate compared with PTA.
IFNγ-Stimulated B Cells Inhibit T Follicular Helper Cells and Protect Against Atherosclerosis
Authors: Douna Hidde , de Mol J. , Amersfoort Jacob , Schaftenaar Frank H. , Kiss Mate G. , Suur Bianca E. , Kroner Mara J. , Binder Christoph J. , Bot Ilze , Van Puijvelde Gijs H. M. , Kuiper Johan , Foks Amanda C.
Published: February 2022

B and T cells are interconnected in the T follicular helper—germinal center B cell (TFH-GC B cell) axis, which is hyperactive during atherosclerosis development and loss of control along this axis results in exacerbated atherosclerosis. Inhibition of the TFH–GC B cell axis can be achieved by providing negative co-stimulation to TFH cells through the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Therefore, we investigated a novel therapeutic strategy using PD-L1-expressing B cells to inhibit atherosclerosis. We found that IFNγ-stimulated B cells significantly enhanced PD-L1 expression and limited TFH cell development. To determine whether IFNγ-B cells can reduce collar-induced atherosclerosis, apoE−/− mice fed a Western-type diet were treated with PBS, B cells or IFNγ-B cells for a total of 5 weeks following collar placement. IFNγ-B cells significantly increased PD-L1hi GC B cells and reduced plasmablasts. Interestingly, IFNγ-B cells–treated mice show increased atheroprotective Tregs and T cell-derived IL-10. In line with these findings, we observed a significant reduction in total lesion volume in carotid arteries of IFNγ-B cells-treated mice compared to PBS-treated mice and a similar trend was observed compared to B cell-treated mice. In conclusion, our data show that IFNγ-stimulated B cells strongly upregulate PD-L1, inhibit TFH cell responses and protect against atherosclerosis.
Role of 3D Transesophageal Echocardiography for Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair—A Mini Review
Authors: Hirasawa Kensuke , Izumo Masaki
Published: February 2022

Edge-to-edge transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) using MitraClip has been evolving rapidly in patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) at high surgical risk or having contraindications for surgery. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography plays an important role in the management of severe MR. In particular, 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) imaging allows the evaluation of MV geometry and quantification of MR severity with dedicated software. Real-time 3D TEE is also commonly used to guide TMVr and facilitate the procedure. Further development of 3D echocardiography may help achieve safer and more beneficial results. The following article summarizes the current knowledge and the future perspectives of 3D TEE in TMVr.
The Formation of Highly Positive δ34S Values in Late Devonian Mudstones: Microscale Analysis of Pyrite (δ34S) and Barite (δ34S, δ18O) in the Canol Formation (Selwyn Basin, Canada)
Authors: Grema Haruna M. , Magnall Joseph M. , Whitehouse Martin J. , Gleeson Sarah A. , Schulz Hans-Martin
Published: February 2022

The sulfur isotope composition of pyrite in marine sedimentary rocks is often difficult to interpret due to a lack of precise isotopic constraints for coeval sulfate. This study examines pyrite and barite in the Late Devonian Canol Formation (Selwyn Basin, Canada), which provides an archive of δ34S and δ18O values during diagenesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been combined with microscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) analysis (n = 1,032) of pyrite (δ34S) and barite (δ34S and δ18O) on samples collected from nine stratigraphic sections of the Canol Formation. Two paragenetic stages of pyrite and barite formation have been distinguished, both replaced by barium carbonate and feldspar. The δ34Sbarite and δ18Obarite values from all sections overlap, between +37.1‰ and +67.9‰ (median = +45.7‰) and +8.8‰ and +23.9‰ (median = +20.0‰), respectively. Barite morphologies and isotopic values are consistent with precipitation from diagenetically modified porewater sulfate (sulfate resupply << sulfate depletion) during early diagenesis. The two pyrite generations (Py-1 and Py-2) preserve distinct textures and end-member isotopic records. There is a large offset from coeval Late Devonian seawater sulfate in the δ34Spyrite values of framboidal pyrite (-29.4‰ to -9.3‰), consistent with dissimilatory microbial sulfate reduction (MSR) during early diagenesis. The Py-2 is in textural equilibrium with barite generation 2 (Brt-2) and records a broad range of more positive δ34SPy-2 values (+9.4‰ to + 44.5‰). The distinctive highly positive δ34Spyrite values developed from sulfate limited conditions around the sulfate methane transition zone (SMTZ). We propose that a combination of factors, including low sulfate concentrations, MSR, and sulfate reduction coupled to anaerobic oxidation of methane (SR-AOM), led to the formation of highly positive δ34Spyrite and δ34Sbarite values in the Canol Formation. The presence of highly positive δ34Spyrite values in other Late Devonian sedimentary units indicate that diagenetic pyrite formation at the SMTZ may be a more general feature of other Lower Paleozoic basins.
The Cretaceous Normal Superchron: A Mini-Review of Its Discovery, Short Reversal Events, Paleointensity, Paleosecular Variations, Paleoenvironment, Volcanism, and Mechanism
Authors: Yoshimura Yutaka
Published: February 2022

The Cretaceous Normal Superchron (CNS) was first defined in the 1960s to explain the Cretaceous Quiet Zone in marine magnetic anomaly profiles, which includes no or fewer geomagnetic reversals. This ∼37 million years period is considered the most unique and extreme geomagnetic feature for the last 160 Myr. Superchrons may be caused by the geodynamo operating at peak efficiency with a unique heat flux at the core-mantle boundary (CMB). Previous studies suggest that the CNS is a sign of the connection between Earth’s interior and surface. During the CNS, the geomagnetic intensity may have fluctuated significantly, and the average may have changed with time, and the paleosecular variations had unique features. The warm climate around the CNS may have been caused by volcanic activity associated with active mantle convection. Such mantle convection increases heat flux at the CMB during the CNS, but geodynamo simulations predict small heat flux, which are inconsistent. This discrepancy may be resolved by the growth and collapse of a superplume or by an increase and decrease in the subduction flux.
Genome-Wide Identification and Comparative Analysis of WRKY Transcription Factors Related to Momilactone Biosynthesis in Calohypnum plumiforme
Authors: Wang Yao , Zhu Ruiyan , Shi Min , Huang Qikai , Zhang Siwei , Kai Guoyin , Guo Shuiliang
Published: February 2022

Momilactones are diterpenoid phytoalexins with allelopathic functions, which have been found in the widely distributed bryophyte Calohypnum plumiforme. Clustered genes containing CpDTC1/HpDTC1, CpCYP970A14, CpCYP964A1, and CpMAS are involved in momilactone biosynthesis. Besides, momilactone concentration in C. plumiforme is affected by heavy metal treatment such as CuCl2. However, transcription factors which might regulate momilactone biosynthesis are unclear. WRKY transcription factors (TFs) regulate phytoalexin biosynthesis in many plant species. In this study, a systematic analysis of the WRKY TFs was performed according to the C. plumiforme genome. A total of 19 CpWRKY genes were identified and categorized into five subgroups based on their phylogenetic relationship. Conserved domain and motif analysis suggested that the WRKY domain was highly conserved, but there were some variations. Cis-acting elements and binding sites analysis implied that CpWRKY genes might be induced by stress and further regulate the biosynthesis of momilactones. Our study lays a foundation for further functional characterization of the candidate CpWRKY genes involved in the regulation of momilactone biosynthesis, and provides new strategies for increasing momilactone production.
Full Chromosomal Relationships Between Populations and the Origin of Humans
Authors: Dong Rui , Pei Shaojun , Guan Mengcen , Yau Shek-Chung , Yin Changchuan , He Rong L. , Yau Stephen S.-T.
Published: February 2022

A comprehensive description of human genomes is essential for understanding human evolution and relationships between modern populations. However, most published literature focuses on local alignment comparison of several genes rather than the complete evolutionary record of individual genomes. Combining with data from the 1,000 Genomes Project, we successfully reconstructed 2,504 individual genomes and propose Divided Natural Vector method to analyze the distribution of nucleotides in the genomes. Comparisons based on autosomes, sex chromosomes and mitochondrial genomes reveal the genetic relationships between populations, and different inheritance pattern leads to different phylogenetic results. Results based on mitochondrial genomes confirm the “out-of-Africa” hypothesis and assert that humans, at least females, most likely originated in eastern Africa. The reconstructed genomes are stored on our server and can be further used for any genome-scale analysis of humans (http://yaulab.math.tsinghua.edu.cn/2022_1000genomesprojectdata/). This project provides the complete genomes of thousands of individuals and lays the groundwork for genome-level analyses of the genetic relationships between populations and the origin of humans.
Identification of Tumor Antigens and Immune Subtypes of Glioblastoma for mRNA Vaccine Development
Authors: Lin Han , Wang Kun , Xiong Yuxin , Zhou Liting , Yang Yong , Chen Shanwei , Xu Peihong , Zhou Yujun , Mao Rui , Lv Guangzhao , Wang Peng , Zhou Dong
Published: February 2022

The use of vaccines for cancer therapy is a promising immunotherapeutic strategy that has been shown to be effective against various cancers. Vaccines directly target tumors but their efficacy against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains unclear. Immunotyping that classifies tumor samples is considered to be a biomarker for immunotherapy. This study aimed to identify potential GBM antigens suitable for vaccine development and develop a tool to predict the response of GBM patients to vaccination based on the immunotype. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was applied to evaluate the expression profile of GBM antigens and their influence on clinical prognosis, while the cBioPortal program was utilized to integrate and analyze genetic alterations. The correlation between antigens and antigen processing cells was assessed using TIMER. RNA-seq data of GBM samples and their corresponding clinical data were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) for further clustering analysis. Six overexpressed and mutated tumor antigens (ARHGAP9, ARHGAP30, CLEC7A, MAN2B1, ARPC1B and PLB1) were highly correlated with the survival rate of GBM patients and the infiltration of antigen presenting cells in GBMs. With distinct cellular and molecular characteristics, three immune subtypes (IS1-IS3) of GBMs were identified and GBMs from IS3 subtype were more likely to benefit from vaccination. Through graph learning-based dimensional reduction, immune landscape was depicted and revealed the existence of heterogeneity among individual GBM patients. Finally, WGCNA can identify potential vaccination biomarkers by clustering immune related genes. In summary, the six tumor antigens are potential targets for developing anti-GBMs mRNA vaccine, and the immunotypes can be used for evaluating vaccination response.
Established and Emerging Treatments of Skin GvHD
Authors: Link-Rachner Cornelia S. , Sockel Katja , Schuetz Catharina
Published: February 2022

Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) of the skin is a severe allo-immune reaction and complication following allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Over the past years, intensive pre-clinical research has led to an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of acute and to a lesser extend chronic GvHD. This has translated into the approval of several new agents for the treatment of both forms of GvHD. This review summarizes the most recent advances in underlying pathomechanisms, clinical trials and newly approved agents for GvHD, with a special focus on skin involvement.