bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of physical mechanical properties in concrete pavers made with construction and demolition waste
Authors: Becerra-Duitama Jhonatan Alexander , Echeverría-Avella Jhonattan Andrés , Galvis-Echeverría Paula Andrea
Published: October 2022

In this study concrete pavers replacing natural coarse aggregate with recycled coarse aggregate were manufac-tured. The substitution percentages were 15%, 30% and 45%. The chief characteristics studied for coarse aggregate were particle size, bulk density and specific density. The chief characteristics studied in the pavers were water absorption, density and flexural strength. It was observed that the density of the pavers decreased by increasing percentage of recycled coarse aggregate replacement due to the due to the high porosity of the recycled aggregates. On the other hand, it was found that the pavers with a 15% substitution were the only ones that reached the average flexural tensile strength indicated in the standard. It was concluded that the manufactured pavers can be used in areas with high rainfall or high-water tables, as well as in car parks or sidewalks
Occupational Allergy
Authors: Anderson Stacey , Long Carrie , Dotson G. Scott
Published: October 2022

An estimated 11 million workers in the USA are potentially exposed to agents that can become a cause of allergic diseases such as occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis, which can adversely affect health and well-being. Hundreds of chemicals (e.g. metals, epoxy and acrylic resins, rubber additives, and chemical intermediates) and proteins (e.g. natural rubber latex, plant proteins, mould, animal dander) present in virtually every industry have been identified as causes of allergic disease. In general, allergens can be classified as low molecular weight (chemical) allergens and high molecular weight (protein) allergens. These agents are capable of inducing immunological responses that are both immunoglobulin E and non-immunoglobulin E-mediated. Interestingly, the same chemical can induce diverse immune responses in different individuals. As new hazards continue to emerge, it is critical to understand the immunological mechanisms of occupational allergic disease. Specific understanding of these mechanisms has direct implications in hazard identification, hazard communication, and risk assessment. Such efforts will ultimately assist in the development of risk management strategies capable of controlling workplace exposures to allergens to prevent the induction of sensitisation in naïve individuals and inhibit elicitation of allergic responses. The purpose of this short review is to give a brief synopsis of the incidence, agents, mechanisms, and research needs related to occupational allergy.
The ‘Nucleolus’ Hypothesis of Autoimmune Diseases and Its Implications
Authors: Brooks Wesley H. , Renaudineau Yves
Published: October 2022

Many autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome, have a female bias and adult onset. One possible explanation for this bias is disruption of the inactive X chromosome, which is a major epigenetic feature in female cells. Indeed, only one X chromosome is needed in male and female somatic cells because most X-linked genes are not sex-specific. Therefore, one of the two X chromosomes in each female cell is inactivated and appears as a heterochromatic body near the nuclear membrane. It has also been reported that the inactive X is often in close association with a nucleolus, as if nucleoli help maintain the inactive state. The main function of nucleoli is to assemble ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) such as ribosomal subunits and splicing components. For that purpose, nucleoli have high levels of polyamines which assist with the folding and assembly of RNPs. However, as observed under abnormal circumstances such as cellular stress, the nucleolus is very active and can expand dramatically, potentially engulfing the inactive X, which is sandwiched between the nuclear membrane and the nucleolus. As a consequence, polyamines present in the nucleolus could stabilise autoantigenic complexes including those arising from disruption of the inactive X, or autosomes that contain nucleolar organising regions that keep those chromosomes near nucleoli. This suggests that a variety of seemingly unrelated autoantigens can occur in autoimmune diseases through this scenario. In fact, many autoantigens are, at least transiently, components of the nucleolus. Here, with particular emphasis on the inactive X chromosome, we discuss the ‘nucleolus’ hypothesis in which disruption of chromatin due to abnormal nucleolar exposure can lead to autoimmune diseases.
Common law systems and COVID-19 policy response: protective public health policy in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia
Authors: Catalano Michael , Chan Aaron
Published: October 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic affected the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia in 2020 all pretty similarly. Knowing that that these four countries produce similar types of policies, and all follow the common law judicial system, it was necessary to analyze how the highest court of each land influenced political actors when responding to the first Covid-19 outbreak. More specifically, we determine the party affiliation of each Justice/judge, calculated the composition of the Courts and proceeded with determining how each of the four Courts ruled on protective public health policy responses. While this is new data during the beginning of the pandemic, we see similarities between 2020 Court opinions and come to conclude that more research on years following 2020 is significant to finding stronger correlations.
A NOTE ON EIGENVALUES OF BICOMPLEX MATRIX
Authors: KUMAR JOGENDRA
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we studied eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the bicomplex matrix, investigated their properties, and established some results. We have also established some results on the eigenvalues of some special bicomplex matrices.
Antibiotikaresistens bra område för att lära om evolution
Authors: Bossér Ulrika
Published: October 2022

Utveckling av antibiotikaresistens hos bakterier kan vara ett bra sammanhang för att undervisa om evolutionära mekanismer. Till exempel kan det öka elevers förståelse för att evolutionen involverar slumpmässiga förändringar. Det visar en studie från Linköpings universitet.
Этнокультурная и социальная адаптация детей мигрантов в школах Республики Мордовия
ETHNOCULTURAL AND SOCIAL ADAPTATION OF MIGRANT CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS OF MORDOVIA
Authors: Kornishina G. A. , Mishina O. A.
Published: October 2022

В представленной статье на основе включенного наблюдения авторов, анализа учебной, научной литературы, практических источников рассмотрены основные направления деятельности школ Республики Мордовия по созданию условий и организации образовательных, воспитательных и адаптационных процессов для детей мигрантов. На современном этапе развития общества большой исследовательский интерес вызывает такое явление как «детская миграция», поскольку вопросы этнокультурной, языковой адаптации и образования детей мигрантов школьного возраста становятся одной из важнейших социальных проблем. Дети мигранты являются особой категорией граждан, которые в силу возраста, несформированной психики, особенностей психологического восприятия образовательной и культурной среды подвержены стрессу и нередкому попаданию в сложные конфликтные ситуации. Адаптация детей мигрантов школьного возраста, как правило, носит продолжительный по времени характер, так как представляет собой сложный социальный процесс, при котором молодые люди сталкиваются с определенными трудностями, среди которых: иностранный язык, новая школьная образовательная программа, социокультурная среда, климатические особенности нового места пребывания и многое другое.
The article considers the activities of schools in the Republic of Mordovia aimed at creating conditions and organizing educational and adaptation processes for migrant children. The study is based on the analysis of educational and scientific literature and practical sources. The current social situation determines the research interest in the phenomenon of “children’s migration”, hence the importance of the present study. Migrant children are a special category of citizens who, due to their age, unformed psyche, and particular psychological perception of the educational and cultural environment, are subject to stress and often face conflict situations. The adaptation of children of migrants of school age is usually a lengthy process since they have to deal with a foreign language, a new school curriculum, socio‑cultural environment, climate, and much more.
Cervical subtotal discectomy prosthesis validated in non-human primate model: A novel artificial cervical disc replacement concept?
Authors: Liu Yang , Wo Jin , Zhu Haoran , Huang Zhonghai , Zhou Pan , Yang Jinpei , Zheng Shuai , Zhou Libing , Tan Fengjin , Sun Guodong , Li Zhizhong
Published: October 2022

Objective: To evaluate the biological function of cervical subtotal discectomy prosthesis (CSDP) implantation in a non-human primate model.

Methods: A CSDP was tested for cytocompatibility and osseointegration capacity before implantation in non-human primates. Subsequently, the CSDP was improved based on three-dimensional CT measurements of the non-human primate cervical spine. Eight cynomolgus monkeys were selected for removal of the intervertebral disc and lower endplate of the C5/6 segment to complete the model construction for CSDP implantation. In 18-month follow-up, physiological indices, radiology, and kinematics were assessed to estimate the biological function of the CSDP in non-human primates, including biosafety, osseointegration, and biomechanics.

Results: Co-cultured with the CSDP constituent titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V-AO), the mouse embryo osteoblast precursor cell MC3T3-E1 obtained extended adhesion, remarkable viability status, and cell proliferation. After implantation in the mouse femur for 28 days, the surface of Ti6Al4V-AO was covered by a large amount of new cancellous bone, which formed further connections with the femur cortical bone, and no toxicity was detected by blood physiology indices or histopathology. After completing implantation in primate models, no infection or osteolysis was observed, nor was any subsidence or displacement of the CSDP observed in CT scans in the 18-month follow-up. In particular, the interior of the cervical vertebra fixation structure was gradually filled with new trabecular bone, and the CSDP had achieved fixation and bony fusion in the vertebral body at 1 year post-operation. Meanwhile, no signs of inflammation, spinal cord compression, adjacent segment degeneration, or force line changes were observed in subsequent MRI observations. Moreover, there were no pathological changes of the joint trajectory, joint motion range, stride length, or the stance phase ratio revealed in the kinematics analysis at 3, 6, 12, or 18 months after CSDP implantation.

Conclusion: We successfully designed a new cervical subtotal discectomy prosthesis and constructed an excellent non-human primate implantation model for the evaluation of subtotal disc replacement arthroplasty. Furthermore, we demonstrated that CSDP had outstanding safety, osseointegration capacity, and biomechanical stability in a non-human primate model, which might be a new choice in the treatment of cervical disc diseases and potentially change future outcomes of degenerative cervical diseases.
Study on vapor–liquid equilibrium and microscopic properties of DL-proline, L-glutamic acid, and L-serine aqueous solutions
Authors: Liu Weiping , Zhou Yu , Xu Xianzhen
Published: October 2022

The vapor–liquid equilibrium (VLE) in aqueous amino acid solutions is essential in chemical production, such as purification, isolation, or crystallization of amino acid intermediates. In this work, VLE of DL-proline, L-glutamic acid, and L-serine aqueous solutions was measured at pressures ranging from 4.82 to 102.58 kPa. The developed model was successfully applied to correlate experimental data with temperatures in the range of 298.15–382.75 K. Model parameters (h, τw,i(0), τw,i(1), τi,w(0), and τi,w(1) ) were given. Moreover, the amino acid aqueous solution was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). By analyzing infrared spectra, the strength of intermolecular interactions was obtained, and the structure–activity relationship between the microscopic interactions and the VLE was established.
A review of cardiac troponin I detection by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy: Under the spotlight of point-of-care testing
Authors: Saviñon-Flores Anel I. , Saviñon-Flores Fernanda , Trejo G. , Méndez Erika , Ţălu Ştefan , González-Fuentes Miguel A. , Méndez-Albores Alia
Published: October 2022

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is a biomarker widely related to acute myocardial infarction (AMI), one of the leading causes of death around the world. Point-of-care testing (POCT) of cTnI not only demands a short turnaround time for its detection but the highest accuracy levels to set expeditious and adequate clinical decisions. The analytical technique Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) possesses several properties that tailor to the POCT format, such as its flexibility to couple with rapid assay platforms like microfluidics and paper-based immunoassays. Here, we analyze the strategies used for the detection of cTnI by SERS considering POCT requirements. From the detection ranges reported in the reviewed literature, we suggest the diseases other than AMI that could be diagnosed with this technique. For this, a section with information about cardiac and non-cardiac diseases with cTnI release, including their release kinetics or cut-off values are presented. Likewise, POCT features, the use of SERS as a POCT technique, and the biochemistry of cTnI are discussed. The information provided in this review allowed the identification of strengths and lacks of the available SERS-based point-of-care tests for cTnI and the disclosing of requirements for future assays design.
Prognostic relevance of demographic factors in cardiac magnetic resonance-proven acute myocarditis: A cohort study
Authors: Cannata Antonio , Bhatti Prashan , Roy Roman , Al-Agil Mohammad , Daniel Allen , Ferone Emma , Jordan Antonio , Cassimon Barbara , Bradwell Susie , Khawaja Abdullah , Sadler Matthew , Shamsi Aamir , Huntington Josef , Birkinshaw Alexander , Rind Irfan , Rosmini Stefania , Piper Susan , Sado Daniel , Giacca Mauro , Shah Ajay M. , McDonagh Theresa , Scott Paul A. , Bromage Daniel I.
Published: October 2022

Aim

Acute myocarditis (AM) is a heterogeneous condition with variable estimates of survival. Contemporary criteria for the diagnosis of clinically suspected AM enable non-invasive assessment, resulting in greater sensitivity and more representative cohorts. We aimed to describe the demographic characteristics and long-term outcomes of patients with AM diagnosed using non-invasive criteria.

Methods and results

A total of 199 patients with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)-confirmed AM were included. The majority (n = 130, 65%) were male, and the average age was 39 ± 16 years. Half of the patients were White (n = 99, 52%), with the remainder from Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups. The most common clinical presentation was chest pain (n = 156, 78%), with smaller numbers presenting with breathlessness (n = 25, 13%) and arrhythmias (n = 18, 9%). Patients admitted with breathlessness were sicker and more often required inotropes, steroids, and renal replacement therapy (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.01, respectively). Over a median follow-up of 53 (IQR 34–76) months, 11 patients (6%) experienced an adverse outcome, defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, resuscitated cardiac arrest, and appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy. Patients in the arrhythmia group had a worse prognosis, with a nearly sevenfold risk of adverse events [hazard ratio (HR) 6.97; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.87–26.00, p = 0.004]. Sex and ethnicity were not significantly associated with the outcome.

Conclusion

AM is highly heterogeneous with an overall favourable prognosis. Three-quarters of patients with AM present with chest pain, which is associated with a benign prognosis. AM presenting with life-threatening arrhythmias is associated with a higher risk of adverse events.
The development of a decision aid for shared decision making in the Dutch implantable cardioverter defibrillator patient population: A novel approach to patient education
Authors: Yilmaz Dilek , Egorova Anastasia D. , Schalij Martin J. , Spierenburg Han A. M. , Verbunt Robert A. M. , van Erven Lieselot
Published: October 2022

Background

Counseling of Implantable Cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) patients with regard to individual risks and benefits is challenging. An evidence-based decision aid tailored to the needs of Dutch ICD patients is not yet available. The objective of this pilot project was to structurally evaluate the current clinical practice in The Netherlands and the ICD patient experience, in order to develop an online decision aid to facilitate shared decision making in ICD procedures.

Methods

Between June 2016 and December 2017, a Dutch web-based decision aid was developed according to the Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) using the RAND-UCLA/multi-stepped Delphi model. Development process consisted of 5 stages in which the Dutch clinical practice was reviewed (stage 1), patients’ needs and their history of decision making was structurally assessed (stages 2A and B) and a modified Delphi consensus process was performed with an expert panel consisting of representatives from different medical fields (stage 3). Results from stages 1–3 were used to design and structure the content of an online-based decision aid (stage 4) which was finally evaluated in a usability testing by patients in stage 5.

Results and conclusion

This study describes the evidence-based approach to the development of the Dutch ICD decision aid. In our population, levels of shared decision-making experience were low. The ICD decision aid was structurally developed for the Dutch ICD patient population. Our upcoming multicenter stepped wedge clustered randomized trial will further evaluate the ICD decision aid in clinical practice.
Causal effects of genetically predicted type 2 diabetes mellitus on blood lipid profiles and concentration of particle-size-determined lipoprotein subclasses: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Ken , Zheng Jilin , Shao Chunli , Zhou Qing , Yang Jie , Huang Tao , Tang Yi-Da
Published: October 2022

Background

Observational studies have shown inconsistent results of the associations between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and blood lipid profiles, while there is also a lack of evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for the causal effects of T2DM on blood lipid profiles and lipoprotein subclasses.

Objectives

Our study aimed at investigating the causal effects of T2DM on blood lipid profiles and concentration of particle-size-determined lipoprotein subclasses by using the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method.

Methods

We obtained genetic variants for T2DM and blood lipid profiles including high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) from international genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Two-sample MR method was applied to explore the potential causal effects of genetically predicted T2DM on blood lipid profiles based on different databases, respectively, and results from each MR analysis were further meta-analyzed to obtain the summary results. The causal effects of genetically predicted T2DM on the concentration of different subclasses of lipoproteins that are determined by particle size were also involved in MR analysis.

Results

Genetically predicted 1-unit higher log odds of T2DM had a significant causal effect on a higher level of TG (estimated β coefficient: 0.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.00 to 0.06) and lower level of HDL-C (estimated β coefficient: −0.09, 95% CI: −0.11 to −0.06). The causality of T2DM on the level of TC or LDL-C was not found (estimated β coefficient: −0.01, 95% CI: −0.02 to 0.01 for TC and estimated β coefficient: 0.01, 95% CI: −0.01 to 0.02 for LDL-C). For different sizes of lipoprotein particles, 1-unit higher log odds of T2DM was causally associated with higher level of small LDL particles, and lower level of medium HDL particles, large HDL particles, and very large HDL particles.

Conclusion

Evidence from our present study showed causal effects of T2DM on the level of TG, HDL-C, and concentration of different particle sizes of lipoprotein subclasses comprehensively, which might be particularly helpful in illustrating dyslipidemia experienced by patients with T2DM, and further indicate new treatment targets for these patients to prevent subsequent excessive cardiovascular events from a genetic point of view.
Virtual conversational agents versus online forms: Patient experience and preferences for health data collection
Authors: Soni Hiral , Ivanova Julia , Wilczewski Hattie , Bailey Alexandra , Ong Triton , Narma Alexa , Bunnell Brian E. , Welch Brandon M.
Published: October 2022

Objective

Virtual conversational agents, or chatbots, have emerged as a novel approach to health data collection. However, research on patient perceptions of chatbots in comparison to traditional online forms is sparse. This study aimed to compare and assess the experience of completing a health assessment using a chatbot vs. an online form.

Methods

A counterbalanced, within-subject experimental design was used with participants recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk (mTurk). Participants completed a standardized health assessment using a chatbot (i.e., Dokbot) and an online form (i.e., REDCap), each followed by usability and experience questionnaires. To address poor data quality and preserve integrity of mTurk responses, we employed a thorough data cleaning process informed by previous literature. Quantitative (descriptive and inferential statistics) and qualitative (thematic analysis and complex coding query) approaches were used for analysis.

Results

A total of 391 participants were recruited, 185 of whom were excluded, resulting in a final sample size of 206 individuals. Most participants (69.9%) preferred the chatbot over the online form. Average Net Promoter Score was higher for the chatbot (NPS = 24) than the online form (NPS = 13) at a statistically significant level. System Usability Scale scores were also higher for the chatbot (i.e. 69.7 vs. 67.7), but this difference was not statistically significant. The chatbot took longer to complete but was perceived as conversational, interactive, and intuitive. The online form received favorable comments for its familiar survey-like interface.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that a chatbot provided superior engagement, intuitiveness, and interactivity despite increased completion time compared to online forms. Knowledge of patient preferences and barriers will inform future design and development of recommendations and best practice for chatbots for healthcare data collection.
“Inner Engineering” for success—A complementary approach to positive education
Authors: Chang Tracy F. H. , Pundir Sheetal , Rayapuraju Akila , Purandare Pradeep
Published: October 2022

The movement of positive education is growing globally. Positive education aims to balance academic skills with skills of wellbeing. This study introduces the “Inner Engineering” methodology and evaluates its impact on promoting wellbeing and flourishing for college students. Based on the science of yoga, the Inner Engineering methodology comprehensively addresses four major dimensions of human experiences—physiological, cognitive, affective, and energetic experiences and offers methods and processes to optimize wellbeing in all of these dimensions. The study design involves a quasi-experimental one-group with pre- and post-course tests. Participants of the study (n= 92 students) completed both the pre- and post-course surveys. The pair-wiset-test results showed significant improvement in wellbeing (mindfulness, joy, vitality, sleep quality, and health) and flourishing in the academic setting (academic psychological capital, academic engagement, and meaningful studies) and in life (meaningful life) among students who successfully completed the course. These findings suggest that the academic curriculum may be balanced by integrating the yogic sciences of wellbeing which address a more complete spectrum of human experiences as a whole person. This, in turn, has a further effect on flourishing academically and in life. Future studies may involve a larger sample size with a comparison group or a randomized control and a longitudinal follow-up.
Testicular aging, male fertility and beyond
Authors: Dong Shijue , Chen Chen , Zhang Jiali , Gao Yuan , Zeng Xuhui , Zhang Xiaoning
Published: October 2022

Normal spermatogenesis and sperm function are crucial for male fertility. The effects of healthy testicular aging and testicular premature aging on spermatogenesis, sperm function, and the spermatogenesis microenvironment cannot be ignored. Compared with younger men, the testis of older men tends to have disturbed spermatogenic processes, sperm abnormalities, sperm dysfunction, and impaired Sertoli and Leydig cells, which ultimately results in male infertility. Various exogenous and endogenous factors also contribute to pathological testicular premature aging, such as adverse environmental stressors and gene mutations. Mechanistically, Y-chromosomal microdeletions, increase in telomere length and oxidative stress, accumulation of DNA damage with decreased repair ability, alterations in epigenetic modifications, miRNA and lncRNA expression abnormalities, have been associated with impaired male fertility due to aging. In recent years, the key molecules and signaling pathways that regulate testicular aging and premature aging have been identified, thereby providing new strategies for diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms of aging on spermatogenesis. Furthermore, potential rescue measures for reproductive aging have been discussed. Finally, the inadequacy of testicular aging research and future directions for research have been envisaged to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular aging and premature aging.
The association of liver enzymes with diabetes mellitus risk in different obesity subgroups: A population-based study
Authors: Zheng Dinghao , Zhang Xiaoyun , You Lili , Li Feng , Lin Diaozhu , Sun Kan , Ren Meng , Yan Li , Wang Wei
Published: October 2022

Background

Numerous observational studies have shown that liver enzymes correlated with diabetes mellitus (DM) risk significantly, but limited studies showed whether different obesity subgroups present the same correlation. Our objective was to evaluate the association of liver enzymes with DM risk in different obesity subgroups based on a middle-aged Chinese population.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study and surveyed 9,916 people aged 40 years and above. A two-slope linear regression model was used to analyze the cutoff points of obesity in DM risk. Restricted cubic splines were used to analyze the correlation between liver enzymes and DM risk in different obesity categories. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the logistic regression model.

Results

The cutoff points of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were 30.55 kg/m2 and 98.99 cm for DM risk, respectively. The serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentration was positively correlated with DM risk in the subgroups with waist circumference <98.99 cm [OR = 1.04, 95% CI (1.03–1.05)], BMI <30.55 kg/m2 [OR = 1.04, 95% CI (1.03–1.05)], and BMI ≥30.55 kg/m2 [OR = 1.18, 95% CI (1.04–1.39)], but not in the subgroup with waist circumference ≥98.99 cm. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations have no significant correlation with the risk of diabetes in all groups.

Conclusion

The results showed that serum GGT concentration was correlated with DM risk but not with AST or ALT in the middle-aged population. However, the correlation disappeared when waist circumference was over 98.99 cm, and serum GGT concentration had a limited value for DM risk in waist circumference over 98.99 cm.
Multi-timescale analysis of air pollution spreaders in Chinese cities based on a transfer entropy network
Authors: Hu Han , Tan Zhanglu , Liu Chan , Wang Ze , Cai Xiaomei , Wang Xing , Ye Zihan , Zheng Shuxian
Published: October 2022

Cross-regional air pollutant spillovers aggravate air pollution in China. To mitigate air pollution, identifying and monitoring air pollution spreaders (APS) is a vital strategy that helps locate the source of air pollution and guides the Joint Prevention and Control of Air Pollution. In this paper, we define an APS as a city with a high spillover impact (CHSI) of air pollution and propose a transfer entropy network to investigate the APS from a multi-timescale analysis perspective. Taking the time series of PM2.5 concentration of 358 Chinese cities from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2020 as the sample, they are decomposed into short, medium, and long timescales, corresponding to an average period of 12, 111, and 530 days, respectively. Then, we use transfer entropy networks to analyze APS’s spatial distribution and temporal variation patterns on each timescale. The results demonstrate that air pollution spillover widely exists in Chinese cities, and the short-term air pollution spillover dominates all spillovers. The CHSIs form large agglomeration areas in Central and East China on short and medium timescales, while the results of the undecomposed data show a more discrete distribution. In addition, the cities’ air pollution spillover impact is usually high in winter and spring and low in summer. Moreover, the spillover impacts of half of the cities have a lead-lag relationship between short and medium timescales. All results suggest that combining short-term controls and longer-term strategies helps China mitigate air pollution and develop sustainably.
Diversity, composition, altitude, and seasonality of high-altitude windborne migrating mosquitoes in the Sahel: Implications for disease transmission
Authors: Yaro Alpha Seydou , Linton Yvonne-Marie , Dao Adama , Diallo Moussa , Sanogo Zana L. , Samake Djibril , Ousmane Yossi , Kouam Cedric , Krajacich Benjamin J. , Faiman Roy , Bamou Roland , Woo Joshua , Chapman Jason W. , Reynolds Don R. , Lehmann Tovi
Published: October 2022

Recent studies have reportedAnophelesmosquitoes captured at high-altitude (40–290 m above ground) in the Sahel. Here, we describe this migration modality across genera and species of African Culicidae and examine its implications for disease transmission and control. As well asAnopheles, six other genera—Culex, Aedes, Mansonia, Mimomyia, Lutzia, andEretmapoditescomprised 90% of the 2,340 mosquitoes captured at altitude. Of the 50 molecularly confirmed species (N= 2,107), 33 species represented by multiple specimens were conservatively considered high-altitude windborne migrants, suggesting it is a common migration modality in mosquitoes (31–47% of the known species in Mali), and especially inCulex(45−59%). Overall species abundance varied between 2 and 710 specimens/species (inAe. vittatusandCx. perexiguus, respectively). At altitude, females outnumbered males 6:1, and 93% of the females have taken at least one blood meal on a vertebrate host prior to their departure. Most taxa were more common at higher sampling altitudes, indicating that total abundance and diversity are underestimated. High-altitude flight activity was concentrated between June and November coinciding with availability of surface waters and peak disease transmission by mosquitoes. These hallmarks of windborne mosquito migration bolster their role as carriers of mosquito-borne pathogens (MBPs). Screening 921 mosquitoes using pan-Plasmodiumassays revealed that thoracic infection rate in these high-altitude migrants was 2.4%, providing a proof of concept that vertebrate pathogens are transported by windborne mosquitoes at altitude. Fourteen of the 33 windborne mosquito species had been reported as vectors to 25 MBPs in West Africa, which represent 32% of the MBPs known in that region and include those that inflict the heaviest burden on human and animal health, such as malaria, yellow fever, dengue, and Rift Valley fever. We highlight five arboviruses that are most likely affected by windborne mosquitoes in West Africa: Rift Valley fever, O'nyong'nyong, Ngari, Pangola, and Ndumu. We conclude that the study of windborne spread of diseases by migrating insects and the development of surveillance to map the sources, routes, and destinations of vectors and pathogens is key to understand, predict, and mitigate existing and new threats of public health.
Sexual and natural selection interplay in sexual head shape dimorphism of two sympatric racerunners (Squamata: Lacertidae)
Authors: Liang Tao , Wang Li , Shi Lei
Published: October 2022

Both natural and sexual selection can shape sexual dimorphism. However, determination of the contribution of these selection pressures is challenging. In lizards, sexual selection can contribute to the larger head size of males than that of females. However, males and females can also diverge in their head size to prey on different food resources under conditions of limited resources (and/or high competitors). Here, 109 individuals from two sympatric desert racerunners (Eremias grammica: 28 males and 30 females; Eremias velox: 25 males and 26 females) were studied to determine their sexual head shape (head length, width, and depth). Additionally, 191 and 169 feces samples of E. grammica and E. velox, respectively, were collected to assess the niche divergence hypothesis (a proxy for natural selection). We found that both species had dimorphic head shapes; male heads (i.e., length, width, and depth) were significantly larger than female heads (P < 0.05, in all cases) in E. grammica, and male heads of E. velox were significantly longer than those of females (P < 0.05). Chi-square test revealed that there were significant differences in the proportion (Hymenopteran and Orthopteran) and sizes of prey type between the two sexes of E. grammica; conspecific males and females of E. velox differed in the proportion of Coleopteran and Hymenopteran prey. Both males and females of these two species had a high niche overlap index (range from ∼ 0.78 to 0.99) with each other. There were also significant differences in the sizes of the heads and prey between the two species (P < 0.05). However, the interspecific differences were mainly caused by interspecific male–male differences in morphological and prey traits. In summary, we believe that both natural (pressures from resource competition) and sexual selection drive sexual head shape dimorphism in these two sympatric lizards, owing to high food resource competition in arid regions. Therefore, head trait divergence can reduce competition by resulting in a preference for different prey types.
Distribution characteristics of selenium, cadmium and arsenic in rice grains and their genetic dissection by genome-wide association study
Authors: Wang Wenxi , Zhang Fan , Liu Dapu , Chen Kai , Du Bin , Qiu Xianjin , Xu Jianlong , Xing Danying
Published: October 2022

High selenium (Se) and low cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) contents in rice grains were good for human health. The genetic basis and relationship of Se, Cd and As concentrations in rice grains are still largely unknown. In the present study, large variations were observed in Se, Cd and As concentrations in brown and milled rice in normal and Se treatment conditions in 307 rice accessions from 3K Rice Genomes Project. Se fertilizer treatment greatly increased Se concentrations but had no obvious changes in concentrations of Cd and As both in brown and milled rice. Total of 237 QTL were identified for Se, Cd and As concentrations in brown and milled rice in normal and Se treatment conditions as well as ratio of concentrations under Se treatment to normal conditions. Only 19 QTL (13.4%) were mapped for concentrations of Se and Cd, Se and As, and Se, Cd and As in the same or adjacent regions, indicating that most Se concentration QTL are independent of Cd and As concentration QTL. Forty-three favorable alleles were identified for 40 candidate genes by gene-based association study and haplotype analysis in 14 important QTL regions. Se-enriched rice variety will be developed by pyramiding favorable alleles at different Se QTL and excluding undesirable alleles at Cd and As QTL, or combining favorable alleles at Se QTL with the alleles at Se-sensitive QTL by marker-assisted selection.
Contriving multi-epitope vaccine ensemble for monkeypox disease using an immunoinformatics approach
Authors: Aziz Shahkaar , Almajhdi Fahad Nasser , Waqas Muhammad , Ullah Inam , Salim Muhammad Adil , Khan Nasir Ali , Ali Amjad
Published: October 2022

The current global outbreak of monkeypox (MPX) disease, caused by Monkeypox virus (MPXV), has resulted in 16 thousand infection cases, five deaths, and has been declared a global health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization. Given current challenges in the safety of existing vaccines, a vaccine to prevent MPX infection and/or onset of symptoms would significantly advance disease management. In this context, a multi-epitope-based vaccine could be a well-suited approach. Herein, we searched a publicly accessible database (Virus Pathogen Database and Analysis Resource) for MPXV immune epitopes from various antigens. We prioritized a group of epitopes (10 CD8+ T cells and four B-cell epitopes) using a computer-aided technique based on desirable immunological and physicochemical properties, sequence conservation criteria, and non-human homology. Three multi-epitope vaccines were constructed (MPXV-1–3) by fusing finalized epitopes with the aid of appropriate linkers and adjuvant (beta-defensin 3, 50S ribosomal protein L7/L12, and Heparin-binding hemagglutinin). Codon optimization and in silico cloning in the pET28a (+) expression vector ensure the optimal expression of each construct in the Escherichia Coli system. Two and three-dimensional structures of the constructed vaccines were predicted and refined. The optimal binding mode of the construct with immune receptors [Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR3, and TLR4)] was explored by molecular docking, which revealed high docking energies of MPXV-1–TLR3 (–99.09 kcal/mol), MPXV-2–TLR3 (–98.68 kcal/mol), and MPXV-3–TLR2 (–85.22 kcal/mol). Conformational stability and energetically favourable binding of the vaccine-TLR2/3 complexes were assessed by performing molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations (Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area method). In silico immune simulation suggested that innate, adaptive, and humoral responses will be elicited upon administration of such potent multi-epitope vaccine constructs. The vaccine constructs are antigenic, non-allergen, non-toxic, soluble, topographically exposed, and possess favourable physicochemical characteristics. These results may help experimental vaccinologists design a potent MPX vaccine.
CXCR2 intrinsically drives the maturation and function of neutrophils in mice
Authors: Delobel Pauline , Ginter Benjamin , Rubio Eliane , Balabanian Karl , Lazennec Gwendal
Published: October 2022

Neutrophils play a major role in the protection from infections but also in inflammation related to tumor microenvironment. However, cell-extrinsic and -intrinsic cues driving their function at steady state is still fragmentary. UsingCxcr2knock-out mice, we have evaluated the function of the chemokine receptor Cxcr2 in neutrophil physiology. We show here that Cxcr2 deficiency decreases the percentage of mature neutrophils in the spleen, but not in the bone marrow (BM). There is also an increase of aged CD62LloCXCR4hineutrophils in the spleen of KO animals. SpleenCxcr2-/-neutrophils display a reduced phagocytic ability, whereas BM neutrophils show an enhanced phagocytic ability compared to WT neutrophils. SpleenCxcr2-/-neutrophils show reduced reactive oxygen species production, F-actin and α-tubulin levels. Moreover, spleenCxcr2-/-neutrophils display an altered signaling with reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, impaired PI3K-AKT, NF-κB, TGFβ and IFNγ pathways. Altogether, these results suggest that Cxcr2 is essential for neutrophil physiology.
Anti-SRP immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy: A critical review of current concepts
Authors: Ma Xue , Bu Bi-Tao
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

This review aims to describe clinical and histological features, treatment, and prognosis in patients with anti-signal recognition particle (SRP) autoantibodies positive immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (SRP-IMNM) based on previous findings.

Previous findings

Anti-SRP autoantibodies are specific in IMNM. Humoral autoimmune and inflammatory responses are the main autoimmune characteristics of SRP-IMNM. SRP-IMNM is clinically characterized by acute or subacute, moderately severe, symmetrical proximal weakness. Younger patients with SRP-IMNM tend to have more severe clinical symptoms. Patients with SRP-IMNM may be vulnerable to cardiac involvement, which ought to be regularly monitored and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is the recommended detection method. The pathological features of SRP-IMNM are patchy or diffuse myonecrosis and myoregeneration accompanied by a paucity of inflammatory infiltrates. Endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced autophagy pathway and necroptosis are activated in skeletal muscle of SRP-IMNM. Treatment of refractory SRP-IMNM encounters resistance and warrants further investigation.

Anti-SRP autoantibodies define a unique population of IMNM patients. The immune and non-immune pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in SRP-IMNM.
Tumor-associated macrophages in tumor progression and the role of traditional Chinese medicine in regulating TAMs to enhance antitumor effects
Authors: Zhang Jiatong , Gao Jiafeng , Cui Jingwen , Wang Yongqiang , Jin Yipeng , Zhang Di , Lin Degui , Lin Jiahao
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To emphasize the importance of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in tumor immunity and to describe the ways in which extracts from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) achieve tumor therapy by modulating macrophages.

Significance

By summarizing these available data, this review focused on TAMs and TCM and can build the foundation for future research on antitumor therapeutics.

Methods

In this review, we summarized the key functions of TAMs in cancer development and overviewed literature on TCM targeting TAMs together with other immune cells aiming to enhance antitumor immunity.

Conclusions

With an indispensable role in antitumor immunity, TAMs contribute to tumor progression, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and immunosuppressive microenvironment. In recent years, TCM has gradually gained attention as a potential antitumor adjunctive therapy in preclinical and clinical trials. TCM is also a regulator of cytokine secretion and cell surface molecule expression in balancing the tumor microenvironment (TME), especially macrophage activation and polarization. Therefore, it is believed that TCM could serve as modifiers with immunomodulatory capability.
HLA-related genetic susceptibility in autoimmune hepatitis according to autoantibody profile
Authors: Cancado Eduardo Luiz Rachid , Goldbaum-Crescente Juliana , Terrabuio Debora Raquel B.
Published: October 2022

Although the prevalence of autoimmune hepatitis in first-degree relatives is small, the relationship between genetic markers, especially human leucocyte antigens (HLA), and susceptibility to this disease, has been studied for over three decades. The genetic susceptibility to AIH is believed to be different in the two subtypes of the disease, AIH type 1 and AIH type 2. Type 1 AIH has anti-smooth muscle and anti-nuclear antibodies as its main markers, while those of type 2 AIH are the anti-liver/kidney microsome type 1 and anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibodies. The anti-soluble liver antigen/liver-pancreas antibodies, which, in addition to being present in both subtypes, mark an important number of patients without serological markers. Therefore, a third type of disease is questionable. The vast majority of immunogenetic studies compare the differences between the two main types and make no difference between which antibodies are present to define the subtype. This review seeks to analyze what was most important published in the AIH in this context, trying to relate the HLA alleles according to the AIH marker autoantibodies.
DNA-PKcs restricts Zika virus spreading and is required for effective antiviral response
Authors: Patricio Daniel de Oliveira , Dias Greicy Brisa Malaquias , Granella Lucilene Wildner , Trigg Ben , Teague Helena Claire , Bittencourt Dina , Báfica André , Zanotto-Filho Alfeu , Ferguson Brian , Mansur Daniel Santos
Published: October 2022

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a single-strand RNA mosquito-borne flavivirus with significant public health impact. ZIKV infection induces double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) in human neural progenitor cells that may contribute to severe neuronal manifestations in newborns. The DNA-PK complex plays a critical role in repairing DSBs and in the innate immune response to infection. It is unknown, however, whether DNA-PK regulates ZIKV infection. Here we investigated the role of DNA-PKcs, the catalytic subunit of DNA-PK, during ZIKV infection. We demonstrate that DNA-PKcs restricts the spread of ZIKV infection in human epithelial cells. Increased ZIKV replication and spread in DNA-PKcs deficient cells is related to a notable decrease in transcription of type I and III interferons as well as IFIT1, IFIT2, and IL6. This was shown to be independent of IRF1, IRF3, or p65, canonical transcription factors necessary for activation of both type I and III interferon promoters. The mechanism of DNA-PKcs to restrict ZIKV infection is independent of DSB. Thus, these data suggest a non-canonical role for DNA-PK during Zika virus infection, acting downstream of IFNs transcription factors for an efficient antiviral immune response.