bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonality in testing and positive respiratory bacterial infections in the Australian Capital Territory, 1997–2007
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Lal Aparna , Richardson Alice
Published: March 2021

Background Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (Myco) bacteria are atypical pathogens that can cause pneumonia and exacerbate underlying conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In the Australian Capital Territory, there is limited information on how seasonal patterns for positive infections and testing may vary, a gap that has implications for control strategies. Methods We examined seasonal patterns of immunoassay results of patients from Canberra Hospital, Australia, who were tested for Cp and/or Myco. Pathology data, collected from August 1997 to March 2007 from 7,275 patients, were analysed with time series additive decomposition and time series regression. Results The proportion of positive Cp infections was highest in March and April (autumn) and lowest in June and August (winter). The proportion of positive Myco infections was highest in December and January (summer) and lowest in August (winter), even though testing for the pathogen peaked in winter with a low in summer. Models with a long-term trend and a variable for month were a better fit for the data than the null models for both infections. Conclusion We found differences in seasonal patterns of testing and in the proportion of positive infections. These findings suggest that preventative measures for common infections need to account for seasonal testing practices so as to build an accurate picture of temporal changes in these infections.
Implementation Of Training Aid Tools Development (Remote Control and Headset) For Sprint Tunanetra Athletes
Authors: Sinulingga Albadi , Novita Novita , Nababan Joni Tohap Maruli
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop training aids (remote control and headset) for sprint athletes with visual impairments as a directional controller during a sprint running exercise program. The benefit of this research is to produce training aids for sprint athletes with visual impairments. This study uses research and development research and development methods. The research was carried out in 2 places, namely the Yapentra SLB-A school for small-scale trials and Karya Murni's SLB-A large-scale trials for the development of blind sprint athletes in North Sumatra NPC. The analysis technique uses quantitative descriptive. The conclusions of this study are: (1) In using remote control and headsets, athletes focus more on personal abilities without thinking about collaboration, acceleration and communication, (2) Using remote control and headsets, athletes are more confident and more independent in sprinting activities. Using remote control and headsets, guades and coaches are more focused in conveying information and are more efficient in training blind athletes with sprint running numbers by looking at personal abilities and motivation as sprint athletes running norms.
Homecourt Application Through Zoom Media To Improve Student Dribbling Techniques In Handball Courses In Physical Education Study Program FKIP UNIB
Authors: Ilahi Bogy Restu , Defliyanto Defliyanto , Syafrial Syafrial
Published: March 2021

This research is a Classroom Action Research in the scope of education carried out by lecturers, researchers in their class or together with other people.Increasing basic dribbling technique skills from before using the homecourt application method through online-based zoom media and after using the homecourt application method through zoom-based media. online in the pre-cycle, it is proven that there has been no improvement because the homecourt application method has not been implemented. 40% of the 12 students who got complete scores with an average score of 67 out of 30 students. There was a significant increase in cycle II, there was an increase in dribbling skills in Handball games with the homecourt application method through online-based zoom media with 2 students who became guards. Evidenced by the results of research with an increase in completeness results to 19 students who completed with an average score in Handball learning of 72.25
Basic Analysis For Taking Learning Policies In The Pandemic Time Covid 19
Authors: Hidayat Rahmat , Risdianto Eko , Aprilatutini Titin , Yustisia Nova
Published: March 2021

This research aims to conduct a basic analysis of policies on learning services during the Covid-19 period towards practice subjects at IAIN Curup Bengkulu Indonesia. This type of research is Research & Development (R&D) by ADDIE at the need assessment stage. Case studies are carried out in the Physical Education course at the Curup state Islamic Institute Bengkulu Indonesia. The population in this study were students of IAIN Curup who took Physical Education courses. The research sample was 238 students. The sampling technique used was the purposive sampling technique and the instrument used was a closed questionnaire. Data were analyzed by using quantitative and qualitative analysis. From this research, it will be obtained the results of an analysis of policies on learning services during the Covid-19 period towards practicing subjects at IAIN Curup. Through this research, it is concluded that most of the policies regarding learning services carried out during the pandemic are still not very good.
Sports Indices Predicting Sustainability Of Sports Development In Kwara State
Authors: Oluwatoyin Ibraheem Musa , Olanrewaju Ibraheem Tajudeen , Sofyan Davi
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this research is to find out that the do sport policy, sports infrastructure and sports funding have any significant relative contribution in predicting sustainable sports development in Kwara State. The research method used is descriptive survey research type. The population in this study consisted of 127 sports coordinators and trainers in Kwara State. The sampling technique used purposive sampling. The sample in this study amounted to 112 respondents. The data collection instrument used a self-developed questionnaire and validated by three experts. The reliability retest method was adopted whereby 20 copies of the questionnaire were administered to sports managers in the state of Oyo, two times between two weeks interval and the results of the two were correlated using PPMC and 0.77r was obtained. Data analysis used PPMC and multiple linear regression at an alpha level of 0.05. The results of the study illustrate that the sports index (sports policy, sports infrastructure and sports funding) makes a significant contribution to sustainable sports development in Kwara State, Nigeria. The conclusion is that funds, infrastructure, human resources are important elements for the sustainability of sports development.
The Effects of Wheel-Running Using the Upper Limbs Following Immobilization After Inducing Arthritis in the Knees of Rats
Authors: TONG Y , ISHIKAWA K , SASAKI R , TAKESHITA I , SAKAMOTO J , OKITA M
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the effects of wheel-running using the upper limbs following immobilization after inducing arthritis in the knees of rats. Forty male Wistar rats (aged 8 weeks) divided into four groups randomly: arthritis (AR), immobilization after arthritis (Im), wheel-running exercise with the upper limbs following immobilization after arthritis induction (Im+Ex) and sham arthritis induction (Con). The knee joints of the Im and Im+Ex groups were immobilized with a cast for 4 weeks. In the Im+Ex group, wheel-running exercise was administered for 60 min/day (5 times/week). The swelling and the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of the knee joint were evaluated for observing the condition of inflammatory symptoms in affected area, and the paw withdraw response (PWR) was evaluated for observing the condition of secondary hyperalgesia in distant area. Especially, in order to evaluate histological inflammation in the knee joint, the number of macrophage (CD68-positive cells) in the synovium was examined. The expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the spinal dorsal horn (L2-3 and L4-5) was examined to evaluate central sensitization. The Im+Ex group showed a significantly better recovery than the Im group in the swelling, PPTs, and PWRs. Additionally, CGRP expression of the spinal dorsal horn (L2-3 and L4-5) in the Im+Ex group was significantly decreased compared with the Im group. According to the results, upper limb exercise can decrease pain in the affected area, reduce hyperalgesia in distant areas, and suppress the central sensitization in the spinal dorsal horn by triggering exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH).
Vulnerability of Subcellular Structures to Pathogenesis Induced by Rotenone in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: POKUSA M , HAJDÚCHOVÁ D , MENICHOVÁ V , EVINOVÁ A , HATOKOVÁ Z , KRÁĽOVÁ-TRANČÍKOVÁ A
Published: March 2021

Numerous pathological changes of subcellular structures are characteristic hallmarks of neurodegeneration. The main research has focused to mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomal networks as well as microtubular system of the cell. The sequence of specific organelle damage during pathogenesis has not been answered yet. Exposition to rotenone is used for simulation of neurodegenerative changes in
SH-SY5Y cells, which are widely used for in vitro modelling of Parkinson´s disease pathogenesis. Intracellular effects were investigated in time points from 0 to 24 h by confocal microscopy and biochemical analyses. Analysis of fluorescent images identified the sensitivity of organelles towards rotenone in this order: microtubular cytoskeleton, mitochondrial network, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomal network. All observed morphological changes of intracellular compartments were identified before αS protein accumulation. Therefore, their potential as an early diagnostic marker is of interest. Understanding of subcellular sensitivity in initial stages of neurodegeneration is crucial for designing new approaches and a management of neurodegenerative disorders.
Вантовая комбинированная конструктивная система «Тенсегрити»
Authors: ЕРЕМЕЕВ Павел Георгиевич
Published: March 2021

Рассмотрены проблемы применения различных типов современных вантовых комбинированных тенсегрити-систем, приведены главные понятия и обобщены основные положения их проектирования. Использование такой системы позволяет достичь экономии материалов, сократить сроки строительства, снизить трудоемкость и стоимость их возведения. Предложены и исследованы новые варианты покрытий тенсегрити на прямоугольном плане, разработанные с целью максимального исключения недостатков, которые присущи этим системам. Проведены численные исследования системы на различные сочетания нагрузок, выявлена большая жесткость предложенной системы. На основе многовариантного анализа определена наиболее целесообразная конструктивная схема. Разработаны конструктивные решения и основные узлы покрытия предложенного варианта системы тенсегрити.
Инновационные конструкции и способы сооружения изотермических резервуаров
Authors: ХАНУХОВ Ханух Михайлович , ЧЕТВЕРТУХИН Никита Вячеславович , ФУНК Виктор Александрович , АРАКЕЛЯН Гамлет Гургенович , ТОРМАСОВ Юрий Борисович
Published: March 2021

Предложен инновационный метод сооружения вертикальных металлических цилиндрических резервуаров - автоматический спирально-навитой сварной способ изготовления из стальной полосы с применением специального оборудования путем навивания и приращивания поясов непосредственно на строительной площадке. Он значительно снижает сроки строительства, повышает качество сварных соединений, точность геометрической формы, эргономичность. Другое перспективное направление в изотермическом резервуаростроении - запатентованная технология "экобетон": бетонирование под сверхвысоким давлением в водно-аэрозольной среде с использованием надувной опалубки. Применение фибробетона с композитным армированием (экофибробетон) значительно повышает физико-механические характеристики по сравнению с обычным железобетоном, снижает стоимость и сроки строительства. Наиболее надежная и безопасная конструкция изотермического резервуара - наземный теплоизолированный резервуар полного сдерживания с подвесной газопроницаемой крышей. В нем предлагается использовать полое межстенное пространство в качестве аварийной и резервной емкости. Это значительно повышает экономичность, энергоэффективность, а также промышленную и экологическую безопасность сооружения.
Восстановленные нефтегазопроводные трубы повторного применения для конструкций четвертой группы
Authors: ГОРИЦКИЙ Виталий Михайлович , ШНЕЙДЕРОВ Георгий Рафаилович
Published: March 2021

Изучена возможность восстановительного ремонта стальных труб нефтегазового сортамента с целью их дальнейшего применения в строительстве. На девяти образцах труб разных сталей исследованы химический состав, микроструктура, содержание водорода, степень коррозионного повреждения труб, механические свойства при растяжении и ударном изгибе. На основе изменения значений относительного удлинения образцов при растяжении, ударной вязкости и определения доли межзеренного разрушения в хрупком изломе проведено установление суммарной степени охрупчивания труб в процессе эксплуатации. Использованы два вида охрупчивания стали: механическое старение (пластическая деформация + старение) и межзеренное разрушение, вызванное ослаблением когезионной прочности границ зерен феррита и колоний перлита. Рассмотрена связь содержания водорода в металле с долей межзеренного разрушения в хрупком изломе. Исследована степень ослабления когезионной прочности, устанавливаемая по доле межзеренного разрушения, с изменением ударной вязкости под воздействием эксплуатационных факторов. Предложена схема оценки технического состояния диагностируемых труб с использованием критериев механической прочности, хладостойкости и необходимости ремонта поверхности труб. Приведена блок-схема последовательности операций при проведении диагностирования технического состояния бывших в эксплуатации труб. По результатам исследований и испытаний проведена оценка пригодности восстановленных нефтегазовых труб к дальнейшей эксплуатации.
The leadership style, relationship with superior and intention to retain in employment
Authors: Babeľová Zdenka Gyurák , Mĺkva Miroslava , Kučerová Marta
Published: March 2021

The paper aims to present results of research focused on the coexistence of different generations of employees. The research was carried out based on analysis of data collected through a research questionnaire on a sample of 534 respondents. The research aimed to investigate the importance and fulfillment of the motivational factors leadership style and relationship with superiors among different generations of employees. This research provides evidence for industrial managers that the relationship with a superior is related to the superior's leadership style. It has also been confirmed that satisfaction with relationships with superiors has an impact on the intention to retain in employment.
Psychological Elaboration and Political Reality of HIV Infection
Authors: Becker Sophinette , Clement Ulrich
Published: March 2021

The authors warn both against trivializing the complex of problems surrounding HIV/AIDS and against calls for heightened state control. Because sexuality ultimately is uncontrollable, they further plead for greater transparency about the connections between the inner conflicts of HIV-positive persons and the external conflicts between them and the uninfected. Mystification or obscuring of these conflicts lead instead to mutual endangerment through acting out.
MITIGATION CLIMATE DISASTER BASED ON QS YUSUF 47-49
Authors: Mujahidin Endin , . Bahagia , Kosim Ahmad Mulyadi , Mangunjaya Fachrudin Majeri
Published: March 2021

The objective of this research is to discover about mitigation climate disaster in QS Yusuf 47-49. The method used is a literature review or library research without collecting data in the field with a descriptive approach. The data research is gathered through reading, collecting, and processing data based on numerous sources comprises a book, journal, article, and hadit as well as Qs-Al-Quran. The result shows that Yusuf prophet releases climate adaptation through surmising climate such as drying and the rainy season before the season combat the society. It refers to avoid human from some adverse effect of climate. Society in Yusuf prophet era providing staple food for facing drying season. As result as a society avoid the shortage of fundamental need when they experience extreme weather. The other is Yusuf prophet forecast weather both drying and rainy period to prefer human for another further mitigation. The other is Yusuf prophet reminds the society through building disaster communication before disaster strike society, it can be categorized as non-physic mitigation of disaster where communication makes them literate about ecology disaster before eco-catastrophe harm human. The impact is to salvage community from the possible side effect of disaster. Lastly, society in Yusuf prophet has conducted physical mitigation like building storage for food because it impossible as food doesn't save in house or food storage.
QUALITY OF POPULATION DOCUMENT PUBLISHING SERVICE OF MIGRATION CITIZENS AFFECTED BY CISUNDAWU TOLL PROJECT IN RANCAKALONG DISTRICT SUMEDANG REGENCY
Authors: Kusdinar Rika , . Ramdani
Published: March 2021

This study aims to analyze problems regarding service quality, inhibiting factors of service quality, and efforts to improve the quality of service for publishing population documents in the integrated services section in Rancakalong District, Sumedang Regency. The method used in the preparation of this thesis is qualitative research methods. Data collection techniques are carried out through library research and field studies which include: observation, interviews, documentation study, and triangulation. The determination of the sample / informant in this study was carried out using purposive sampling. Furthermore, data analysis is carried out by referring to the technical analysis of the miles and Huberman models, namely: data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing / verification (conclusion). Sources of data / informants in this study are: Head of Sub-District, Head of Sub-District Secretariat, Public Service Sub-Division, Head of General Subdivision, Assets and Administration, Governance Section. Based on the results of interviews, observations and documentation results, data analysis is then obtained that the quality of service for the publication of population documents at the service section of Rancakalong District, Sumedang Regency can be said to be quite good, it can be seen in the aspects of reliability, tangibles, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. Although there are still obstacles that occur in the process of improving service quality, namely service procedures and service flows that not many people understand or have not been maximally socialized to the community. Efforts are made to overcome barriers to improving service quality, namely by the existence of effective communication, giving authority, giving motivation, training on services.
Who Says Shut Up and Dribble? Race and the Response to Athletes' Political Activism
Authors: Niven David
Published: March 2021

In response to a political comment from NBA superstar LeBron James, a Fox News commentator suggested he “shut up and dribble.” James and many others considered the comment racist. Defenders suggested it was driven by political ideology rather than race. Interestingly, both perspectives could find support in existing research. Using responses to a large national survey asking whether respondents find athlete political activism “acceptable,” here I find strong evidence that both ideology and race shape attitudes on the subject. The picture that emerges reveals that party and ideology matter, but even after controlling for them, the race and racial views of the respondent help shape their perspective on political athletes. Establishing the importance of race and racial views here helps illuminate why the intersection of sports and politics generates such fierce responses including unvarnished vitriol from some political figures.
Functional and Pathological Roles of AHCY
Authors: Vizán Pedro , Di Croce Luciano , Aranda Sergi
Published: March 2021

Adenosylhomocysteinase (AHCY) is a unique enzyme and one of the most conserved proteins in living organisms. AHCY catalyzes the reversible break ofS-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), the by-product and a potent inhibitor of methyltransferases activity. In mammals, AHCY is the only enzyme capable of performing this reaction. Controlled subcellular localization of AHCY is believed to facilitate local transmethylation reactions, by removing excess of SAH. Accordingly, AHCY is recruited to chromatin during replication and active transcription, correlating with increasing demands for DNA, RNA, and histone methylation. AHCY deletion is embryonic lethal in many organisms (from plants to mammals). In humans, AHCY deficiency is associated with an incurable rare recessive disorder in methionine metabolism. In this review, we focus on the AHCY protein from an evolutionary, biochemical, and functional point of view, and we discuss the most recent, relevant, and controversial contributions to the study of this enzyme.
Detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms by Fluorescence Embedded Dye SYBR Green I Based on Graphene Oxide
Authors: Xia Jiaoyun , Xu Tong , Qing Jing , Wang Lihua , Tang Junlong
Published: March 2021

The detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is of great significance in the early diagnosis of diseases and the rational use of drugs. Thus, a novel biosensor based on the quenching effect of fluorescence-embedded SYBR Green I (SG) dye and graphene oxide (GO) was introduced in this study. The probe DNA forms a double helix structure with perfectly complementary DNA (pcDNA) and 15 single-base mismatch DNA (smDNA) respectively. SG is highly intercalated with perfectly complementary dsDNA (pc-dsDNA) and exhibits strong fluorescence emission. Single-base mismatch dsDNA (SNPs) has a loose double-stranded structure and exhibits poor SG intercalation and low fluorescence sensing. At this time, the sensor still showed poor SNP discrimination. GO has a strong effect on single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), which can reduce the fluorescence response of probe DNA and eliminate background interference. And competitively combined with ssDNA in SNPs, quenching the fluorescence of SG/SNP, while the fluorescence value of pc-dsDNA was retained, increasing the signal-to-noise ratio. At this time, the sensor has obtained excellent SNP resolution. Different SNPs detect different intensities of fluorescence in the near-infrared region to evaluate the sensor's identification of SNPs. The experimental parameters such as incubation time, incubation temperature and salt concentration were optimized. Under optimal conditions, 1 nM DNA with 0–10 nM linear range and differentiate 5% SNP were achieved. The detection method does not require labeling, is low cost, simple in operation, exhibits high SNP discrimination and can be distinguished by SNP at room temperature.
Remote Digital Measurement of Facial and Vocal Markers of Major Depressive Disorder Severity and Treatment Response: A Pilot Study
Authors: Abbas Anzar , Sauder Colin , Yadav Vijay , Koesmahargyo Vidya , Aghjayan Allison , Marecki Serena , Evans Miriam , Galatzer-Levy Isaac R.
Published: March 2021

Objectives: Multiple machine learning-based visual and auditory digital markers have demonstrated associations between major depressive disorder (MDD) status and severity. The current study examines if such measurements can quantify response to antidepressant treatment (ADT) with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin–norepinephrine uptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Methods: Visual and auditory markers were acquired through an automated smartphone task that measures facial, vocal, and head movement characteristics across 4 weeks of treatment (with time points at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks) on ADT (n = 18). MDD diagnosis was confirmed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), and the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) was collected concordantly to assess changes in MDD severity.

Results: Patient responses to ADT demonstrated clinically and statistically significant changes in the MADRS [F(2, 34) = 51.62, p < 0.0001]. Additionally, patients demonstrated significant increases in multiple digital markers including facial expressivity, head movement, and amount of speech. Finally, patients demonstrated significantly decreased frequency of fear and anger facial expressions.

Conclusion: Digital markers associated with MDD demonstrate validity as measures of treatment response.
Field Evaluation of Different Attractants for Detecting and Monitoring Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Larson Nicholas R. , Strickland Jaime , Shields Vonnie D. , Rodriguez-Saona Cesar , Cloonan Kevin , Short Brent D. , Leskey Tracy C. , Zhang Aijun
Published: March 2021

Drosophila suzukii, more commonly known as the spotted-wing drosophila (SWD), is an invasive pest of soft, thin-skinned fruit responsible for significant economic losses for growers worldwide. To detect and monitor this pest, several host attractants have been developed for use in trapping SWD; however, they lack selectivity. Therefore, there is a significant need for more selective monitoring devices to enable growers to make timely pest management decisions to properly protect vulnerable crops. Previous studies identified a quinary blend (QB), based on fermenting apple juice odors, which offers significantly higher selectivity by reducing non-target captures compared with the standard apple cider vinegar bait commonly used by growers in the orchards. In this study, the selectivity and efficacy of a home-made QB dispenser was compared to an industry formulated version of the QB components (ChemTica) and two commercially available (Scentry and Trécé) SWD dispensers across blueberry and raspberry fields in Maryland, West Virginia, and New Jersey in different seasons. Controlled-release dispensers of the QB (home-made and ChemTica) consistently had higher selectivity within the blueberry and raspberry field sites compared with the two commercial dispensers; although efficacy was compromised such that total SWD captures per trap tended to be lower. The selectivity ratio range of SWD to non-targets (all non-SWD) for a QB-based (ChemTica) dispenser averaged from 15 to 57% compared with other commercial dispensers that ranged from 1 to 30% based on location and year. Due to high selectivity of the controlled-release dispenser of the QB, the potential for this dispenser to be utilized by growers as a SWD detection and monitoring tool is high.
Tiliroside Ameliorates Ulcerative Colitis by Restoring the M1/M2 Macrophage Balance via the HIF-1α/glycolysis Pathway
Authors: Zhuang Hongda , Lv Qi , Zhong Chao , Cui Yaru , He Luling , Zhang Cheng , Yu Jun
Published: March 2021

Macrophages polarized to different phenotypes critically contribute to colitis development by coordinating inflammatory and anti-inflammatory processes. Herein, targeting the balance between the pro-inflammatory M1 and the anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage phenotypes can be a novel therapeutic approach for colitis. In the present study, we firstly demonstrated that tiliroside possessed the ability to alleviate the clinical symptoms of colitis as evidenced by decreased disease activity index (DAI) scores, longer colon length, reduced myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and improvement of colonic pathological damage in vivo. Furthermore, we showed that tiliroside modulated the balance between M1 and M2 macrophages toward a more anti-inflammatory status in colonic lamina propria but has little effect on the T cell population and epithelial barrier function in colitis mice. The macrophage depletion study further showed the protective effect of tiliroside was macrophage dependent in vivo. Mechanistically, our study demonstrated that tiliroside regulated cellular metabolism by inhibiting aerobic glycolysis in LPS and IFNγ stimulated macrophages. At the molecular level, tiliroside facilitated the proteasomal degradation of HIF-1α and downregulated mRNA expressions of HIF-1α dependent glycolytic enzymes in macrophages. Collectively, our data highlight the aberrant M1/M2 macrophage polarization in the initiation and development of ulcerative colitis and put forth the stage for considering tiliroside as a metabolic regulator in reprogramming macrophage polarization, which may serve as a promising therapeutic approach for treatment of inflammation-associated and metabolic disorders.
Antibodies Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Alkaline Protease Directly Enhance Disruption of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Mediated by This Enzyme
Authors: Jing Chendi , Liu Chenghua , Liu Yu , Feng Ruli , Cao Run , Guan Zhangchun , Xuan Bo , Gao Yaping , Wang Qi , Yang Nana , Ma Yuanfang , Lan Lefu , Feng Jiannan , Shen Beifen , Wang Hui , Yu Yanyan , Yang Guang
Published: March 2021

Extracellular traps released by neutrophils (NETs) are essential for the clearance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Alkaline protease (AprA) secreted by P. aeruginosa negatively correlates with clinical improvement. Moreover, anti-AprA in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) can help identify patients with aggressive forms of chronic infection. However, the mechanism underlying the clinical outcomes remains unclear. We demonstrated that aprA deficiency in P. aeruginosa decreased the bacterial burden and reduced lung infection. AprA degraded NET components in vitro and in vivo but did not affect NET formation. Importantly, antibodies induced by AprA acted as an agonist and directly enhanced the degrading activities of AprA. Moreover, antisera from patients with P. aeruginosa infection exhibited antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) similar to that of the antibodies we prepared. Our further investigations showed that the interaction between AprA and the specific antibodies might make the enzyme active sites better exposed, and subsequently enhance the recognition of substrates and accelerate the degradation. Our findings revealed that AprA secreted by P. aeruginosa may aggravate infection by destroying formed NETs, an effect that was further enhanced by its antibodies.
Determining the Ecological Status of Benthic Coastal Communities: A Case in an Anthropized Sub-Arctic Area
Authors: Dreujou Elliot , Desroy Nicolas , Carrière Julie , Tréau de Coeli Lisa , McKindsey Christopher W. , Archambault Philippe
Published: March 2021

With the widespread influence of human activities on marine ecosystems, evaluation of ecological status provides valuable information for conservation initiatives and sustainable development. To this end, many environmental indicators have been developed worldwide and there is a growing need to evaluate their performance by calculating ecological status in a wide range of ecosystems at multiple spatial and temporal scales. This study calculated and contrasted sixteen indicators of ecological status from three methodological categories: abundance measures, diversity parameters and characteristic species. This selection was applied to coastal benthic ecosystems at Sept-Îles (Québec, Canada), an important industrial harbor area in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and related to habitat parameters (organic matter, grain size fractions, and heavy metal concentrations). Nearly all indicators highlighted a generally good ecological status in the study area, where communities presented an unperturbed profile with high taxa and functional diversities and without the dominance of opportunistic taxa. Some correlations with habitat parameters were detected, especially with heavy metals, and bootstrap analyses indicated quite robust results. This study provides valuable information on the application of environmental indicators in Canadian coastal ecosystems, along with insights on their use for environmental assessments.
Deficiencies in Planning Interventional Trial Registration of COVID-19 in China
Authors: Li Xiaodan , Zhang Shengzhao , Zhou Yiling , Liu Ying , Zhou Youlian , Li Sheyu , Su Na
Published: March 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the world since late 2019. The efforts to control the spread of the virus need to be supported by credible evidence. Therefore, we analyzed the rationality of the timeline and geographic distribution of COVID-19 trial registration in mainland China.

Methods: We searched the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR, http://www.chictr.org.cn/) and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP, https://www.who.int/ictrp/en/) using keywords including novel coronavirus, coronavirus pneumonia, 2019-nCoV, COVID-19, and SARS-COV-2 from 1 December 2019 to 27 April 2020 and included interventional randomized and non-randomized trials including patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19 in mainland China. The registered trials were reviewed, and data were independently extracted by two reviewers based on the inclusion criteria.

Results: A total of 263 registered interventional trials were included in the study. We defined the sample size index (SI) as the total number of patients needed by the trials divided by the total number of patients diagnosed with COVID-19. A total of 84,341 patients had been diagnosed with COVID-19 in China as of 26 April 2020, and the included trials had a combined sample size of 31,156 patients (SI: 0.37). After control of the COVID-19 epidemic was achieved in China (February 18, 2020), the SI was 1.54, suggesting that the number of patients needed by the trials was greater than the number of newly diagnosed patients. The SIs in 8 out of 26 provinces in mainland China were >1.

Conclusions: Our results suggested a clear over registration of COVID-19 trials in China, especially after control of the pandemic was achieved, preventing the generation of high-quality evidence.
Renal Involvement in IgG4-Related Disease: From Sunlight to Twilight
Authors: Capecchi Riccardo , Giannese Domenico , Moriconi Diego , Bonadio Angelo G. , Pratesi Federico , Croia Cristina , Egidi Maria F. , Puxeddu Ilaria , Tavoni Antonio G. , Migliorini Paola
Published: March 2021

IgG4-Related Disease (IgG4-RD) is a fibroinflammatory condition characterized by a typical histopathological pattern (dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with prevalent IgG4+ plasma cells and storiform fibrosis), which may involve the kidney both directly (IgG4-related kidney disease, IgG4-RKD) or indirectly, as a consequence of post-renal ureteral obstruction due to retroperitoneal fibrosis (IgG4-RD RF). The most frequent presentation of IgG4-RKD is IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN), but a glomerular disease can be present, in most of the cases a membranous nephropathy. Albeit steroid-responsive, in some cases renal manifestations may lead to progressive and permanent organ damage. In this review we describe four clinical cases representative of typical and less typical renal manifestations of IgG4-RD, emphasizing a potential, subclinical, early involvement of the kidney in the disease.
miR-7b-3p Exerts a Dual Role After Spinal Cord Injury, by Supporting Plasticity and Neuroprotection at Cortical Level
Authors: Ghibaudi Matilde , Boido Marina , Green Darrell , Signorino Elena , Berto Gaia Elena , Pourshayesteh Soraya , Singh Archana , Di Cunto Ferdinando , Dalmay Tamas , Vercelli Alessandro
Published: March 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects 6 million people worldwide with no available treatment. Despite research advances, the inherent poor regeneration potential of the central nervous system remains a major hurdle. Small RNAs (sRNAs) 19–33 nucleotides in length are a set of non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression and have emerged as key players in regulating cellular events occurring after SCI. Here we profiled a class of sRNA known as microRNAs (miRNAs) following SCI in the cortex where the cell bodies of corticospinal motor neurons are located. We identified miR-7b-3p as a candidate target given its significant upregulation after SCI in vivo and we screened by miRWalk PTM the genes predicted to be targets of miR-7b-3p (among which we identified Wipf2, a gene regulating neurite extension). Moreover, 16 genes, involved in neural regeneration and potential miR-7b-3p targets, were found to be downregulated in the cortex following SCI. We also analysed miR-7b-3p function during cortical neuron development in vitro: we observed that the overexpression of miR-7b-3p was important (1) to maintain neurons in a more immature and, likely, plastic neuronal developmental phase and (2) to contrast the apoptotic pathway; however, in normal conditions it did not affect the Wipf2 expression. On the contrary, the overexpression of miR-7b-3p upon in vitro oxidative stress condition (mimicking the SCI environment) significantly reduced the expression level of Wipf2, as observed in vivo, confirming it as a direct miR-7b-3p target. Overall, these data suggest a dual role of miR-7b-3p: (i) the induction of a more plastic neuronal condition/phase, possibly at the expense of the axon growth, (ii) the neuroprotective role exerted through the inhibition of the apoptotic cascade. Increasing the miR-7b-3p levels in case of SCI could reactivate in adult neurons silenced developmental programmes, supporting at the same time the survival of the axotomised neurons.
A Multifunctional Peptide From Bacillus Fermented Soybean for Effective Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 S1 Receptor Binding Domain and Modulation of Toll Like Receptor 4: A Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Padhi Srichandan , Sanjukta Samurailatpam , Chourasia Rounak , Labala Rajendra K. , Singh Sudhir P. , Rai Amit K.
Published: March 2021

Fermented soybean products are traditionally consumed and popular in many Asian countries and the northeastern part of India. To search for potential agents for the interruption of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Spike glycoprotein 1 (S1) and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor interactions, the in silico antiviral prospective of peptides identified from the proteome of kinema was investigated. Soybean was fermented using Bacillus licheniformis KN1G, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens KN2G and two different strains of Bacillus subtilis (KN2B and KN2M). The peptides were screened in silico for possible antiviral activity using two different web servers (AVPpred and meta-iAVP), and binding interactions of selected 44 peptides were further explored against the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the S1 protein (PDB ID: 6M0J) by molecular docking using ZDOCK. The results showed that a peptide ALPEEVIQHTFNLKSQ (P13) belonging to B. licheniformis KN1G fermented kinema was able to make contacts with the binding motif of RBD by blocking specific residues designated as critical (GLN493, ASN501) in the binding of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) cell receptor. The selected peptide was also observed to have a significant affinity towards human toll like receptor 4 (TLR4)/Myeloid Differentiation factor 2 (MD2) (PDB ID: 3FXI) complex known for its essential role in cytokine storm. The energy properties of the docked complexes were analyzed through the Generalized Born model and Solvent Accessibility method (MM/GBSA) using HawkDock server. The results showed peptidyl amino acids GLU5, GLN8, PHE11, and LEU13 contributed most to P13-RBD binding. Similarly, ARG90, PHE121, LEU61, PHE126, and ILE94 were appeared to be significant in P13-TLR4/MD2 complex. The findings of the study suggest that the peptides from fermented soy prepared using B. licheniformis KN1G have better potential to be used as antiviral agents. The specific peptide ALPEEVIQHTFNLKSQ could be synthesized and used in combination with experimental studies to validate its effect on SARS-CoV-2-hACE2 interaction and modulation of TLR4 activity. Subsequently, the protein hydrolysate comprising these peptides could be used as prophylaxis against viral diseases, including COVID-19.
New Open-Source Tools: Using Bonsai for Behavioral Tracking and Closed-Loop Experiments
Authors: Lopes Gonçalo , Monteiro Patricia
Published: March 2021

The ability to dynamically control a behavioral task based on real-time animal behavior is an important feature for experimental neuroscientists. However, designing automated boxes for behavioral studies requires a coordinated combination of mechanical, electronic, and software design skills which can challenge even the best engineers, and for that reason used to be out of reach for the majority of experimental neurobiology and behavioral pharmacology researchers. Due to parallel advances in open-source hardware and software developed for neuroscience researchers, by neuroscience researchers, the landscape has now changed significantly. Here, we discuss powerful approaches to the study of behavior using examples and tutorials in the Bonsai visual programming language, towards designing simple neuroscience experiments that can help researchers immediately get started. This language makes it easy for researchers, even without programming experience, to combine the operation of several open-source devices in parallel and design their own integrated custom solutions, enabling unique and flexible approaches to the study of behavior, including video tracking of behavior and closed-loop electrophysiology.
Sustained Hippocampal Synaptic Pathophysiology Following Single and Repeated Closed-Head Concussive Impacts
Authors: McDaid John , Briggs Clark A. , Barrington Nikki M. , Peterson Daniel A. , Kozlowski Dorothy A. , Stutzmann Grace E.
Published: March 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), and related diseases such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and Alzheimer’s (AD), are of increasing concern in part due to enhanced awareness of their long-term neurological effects on memory and behavior. Repeated concussions, vs. single concussions, have been shown to result in worsened and sustained symptoms including impaired cognition and histopathology. To assess and compare the persistent effects of single or repeated concussive impacts on mediators of memory encoding such as synaptic transmission, plasticity, and cellular Ca2+ signaling, a closed-head controlled cortical impact (CCI) approach was used which closely replicates the mode of injury in clinical cases. Adult male rats received a sham procedure, a single impact, or three successive impacts at 48-hour intervals. After 30 days, hippocampal slices were prepared for electrophysiological recordings and 2-photon Ca2+ imaging, or fixed and immunostained for pathogenic phospho-tau species. In both concussion groups, hippocampal circuits showed hyper-excitable synaptic responsivity upon Schaffer collateral stimulation compared to sham animals, indicating sustained defects in hippocampal circuitry. This was not accompanied by sustained LTP deficits, but resting Ca2+ levels and voltage-gated Ca2+ signals were elevated in both concussion groups, while ryanodine receptor-evoked Ca2+ responses decreased with repeat concussions. Furthermore, pathogenic phospho-tau staining was progressively elevated in both concussion groups, with spreading beyond the hemisphere of injury, consistent with CTE. Thus, single and repeated concussions lead to a persistent upregulation of excitatory hippocampal synapses, possibly through changes in postsynaptic Ca2+ signaling/regulation, which may contribute to histopathology and detrimental long-term cognitive symptoms.
Optimal Organization of Functional Connectivity Networks for Segregation and Integration With Large-Scale Critical Dynamics in Human Brains
Authors: Zhou Xinchun , Ma Ningning , Song Benseng , Wu Zhixi , Liu Guangyao , Liu Liwei , Yu Lianchun , Feng Jianfeng
Published: March 2021

The optimal organization for functional segregation and integration in brain is made evident by the “small-world” feature of functional connectivity (FC) networks and is further supported by the loss of this feature that has been described in many types of brain disease. However, it remains unknown how such optimally organized FC networks arise from the brain's structural constrains. On the other hand, an emerging literature suggests that brain function may be supported by critical neural dynamics, which is believed to facilitate information processing in brain. Though previous investigations have shown that the critical dynamics plays an important role in understanding the relation between whole brain structural connectivity and functional connectivity, it is not clear if the critical dynamics could be responsible for the optimal FC network configuration in human brains. Here, we show that the long-range temporal correlations (LRTCs) in the resting state fMRI blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signals are significantly correlated with the topological matrices of the FC brain network. Using structure-dynamics-function modeling approach that incorporates diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data and simple cellular automata dynamics, we showed that the critical dynamics could optimize the whole brain FC network organization by, e.g., maximizing the clustering coefficient while minimizing the characteristic path length. We also demonstrated with a more detailed excitation-inhibition neuronal network model that loss of local excitation-inhibition (E/I) balance causes failure of critical dynamics, therefore disrupting the optimal FC network organization. The results highlighted the crucial role of the critical dynamics in forming an optimal organization of FC networks in the brain and have potential application to the understanding and modeling of abnormal FC configurations in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Effect of the Stimulus Duration on the Adaptation of the Optokinetic Afternystagmus
Authors: Gygli Jan , Romano Fausto , Bockisch Christopher J. , Feddermann-Demont Nina , Straumann Dominik , Bertolini Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Observing a rotating visual pattern covering a large portion of the visual field induces optokinetic nystagmus (OKN). If the lights are suddenly switched off, optokinetic afternystagmus (OKAN) occurs. OKAN is hypothesized to originate in the velocity storage mechanism (VSM), a central processing network involved in multi-sensory integration. During a sustained visual rotation, the VSM builds up a velocity signal. After the lights are turned off, the VSM discharges slowly, with OKAN as the neurophysiological correlate. It has been reported that the initial afternystagmus in the direction of the preceding stimulus (OKAN-I) can be followed by a reversed one (OKAN-II), which increases with stimulus duration up to 15 min. In 11 healthy adults, we investigated OKAN following optokinetic stimulus lasting 30 s, 3-, 5-, and 10-min. Analysis of slow-phase cumulative eye position and velocity found OKAN-II in only 5/11 participants. Those participants presented it in over 70% of their trials with longer durations, but only in 10% of their 30 s trials. While this confirms that OKAN-II manifests predominantly after sustained stimuli, it suggests that its occurrence is subject-specific. We also did not observe further increases with stimulus duration. Conversely, OKAN-II onset occurred later as stimulus duration increased (p = 0.02), while OKAN-II occurrence and peak velocity did not differ between the three longest stimuli. Previous studies on OKAN-I, used negative saturation models to account for OKAN-II. As these approaches have no foundation in the OKAN-II literature, we evaluated if a simplified version of a rigorous model of OKAN adaptation could be used in humans. Slow-phase velocity following the trials with 3-, 5-, and 10-min stimuli was fitted with a sum of two decreasing exponential functions with opposite signs (one for OKAN-I and one for OKAN-II). The model assumes separate mechanisms for OKAN-I, representing VSM discharge, and OKAN-II, described as a slower adaptation phenomenon. Although the fit was qualitatively imperfect, this is not surprising given the limited reliability of OKAN in humans. The estimated adaptation time constant seems comparable to the one describing the reversal of the vestibulo-ocular reflex during sustained rotation, suggesting a possible shared adaptive mechanism.