bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students' Spatial Ability During Geometry Learning through a Realistic Approach In Terms of Their Genetic Decomposition
Authors: Nugroho Khathibul Umam Zaid , Sukestiyarno YL , Hidayah Isti
Published: August 2023

Geometry is a part of mathematics that students must learn. Spatial ability as a basic ability that students must have to learn more geometry. The realistic mathematical approach provides horizontal processing towards formal understanding. The purpose of this study is to interpret the characteristics of students' spatial abilities during learninggeometry through a realistic mathematical approach in terms of APOS Theory. This research uses quantitative qualitative and descriptive methods. The focus of this research is to explore students' spatial abilities after learning geometry through a realistic approach in understanding geometry concepts reviewed from APOS (Action-Process-Object-Schema) Theory. To comply with the COVID-19 health protocol, the implementation of learning was carried out online with as many as 30 students in the Mathematics Education Program in Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu Province, Indonesia. This study also has exploratory characteristics. The researcher acts as a teacher as well as the main instrument in this study. Researchers use spatial ability test instruments to explore qualitative data. The test result data is used as the basis for determining the research subjects to be interviewed in depth to explore students' spatial abilities during geometry learning through a realistic mathematical approach. The subjects of this study were three students selected from three categories of test results, namely the high, medium and low groups of one person each. Interviews of subjects were conducted using whatsapp media via video call. These interviews are recorded to obtain complete and accurate data. Research data are analyzed through genetic decomposition analysis (description of their actions, objects, processes, schemes, and relationships that individuals have for concepts and principles in spatial geometry). The result of this study was that it was found that students had a mature scheme about the properties of building space. He was able to perform the tematization of objects about the diagonal of the plane and the diagonal of space can be represented in good mental activity, he was a student of the trance level. Inter students are able to carry out action-process-object-and schematic activities, but the embedding is incomplete. Intra students are able to do perceptions of space, but are unable to do interiorization and encapsulation so they fail to solve the given problem. The conclusion of this study is that there is an increase in the spatial understanding of students who are taught through a realistic mathematical approach. There are three levels of students' spatial ability after learning geometry through a realistic mathematical approach. Those are the trance level, the inter level and the lowest intra level.
Poverty, Youth Unemployment, Maritime Piracy, and Sea Robbery in Nigeria between 1995 and 2013: A Relationship Assessment
Authors: Ojutalayo John Folayan , Boniface Ndikom Obed , Ugwu Nnadi Kenneth , Chidiebere Akujuobi Aghaegbulam Bonaventure , Nwokedi Theophilus Chinonyerem
Published: August 2023

The study investigated the relationships between the poverty level in Nigeria and levels of global and local pirate attacks against ships on one hand; and between the unemployment rate in Nigeria and the level of local and global attack against ships, as well as the volume of cargo pilfered from Nigerian ports, on the other hand. The study employed secondary data sourced from the Nigerian Ports Authority, the National Bureau for Statistics (NBS), and the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) on the poverty rate, unemployment rate, levels of pirate attacks against ships in local and global waters, and volume of cargo pilferages in ports. The multiple regression analysis method was used to analyze the dataset obtained, using poverty rate and unemployment rate as the dependent variables in each case. It was found that poverty among dwellers is a component driver of maritime piracy and sea robbery against ships trading in Nigeria, since there is a significant relationship between the level of maritime insecurity and the rate of poverty in Nigeria. The study also found that there is a significant relationship between the level of maritime piracy/sea robbery and the unemployment rate in Nigeria.
Highlights

Maritime insecurity in Nigeria waterways
Pirate attacks against ships trading in Nigeria waters is linked to unrest in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria
Maritime piracy in Nigeria waters is correlated with Poverty, unemployment, economic hardship in Nigeria
Significant relationship exist between maritime insecurity and poverty rate in Nigeria
ОСНОВНІ НАПРЯМКИ РОЗВИТКУ СУЧАСНИХ СУДНОВИХ ГВИНТО-РУЛЬОВИХ КОМПЛЕКСІВ
Authors: Войченко Тетяна Олександрівна , Бойко Світлана Олексіївна , Штрибець Валерій Валерійович , Маннапова Оксана Володимирівна
Published: August 2023

Метою статті є дослідження основних напрямів розвитку сучасних суднових гвинто-рульових комплексів на користь підвищення керованості судна та економії споживання палива на судні з акцентом на розвиток рулів. Поставлена мета досягається шляхом аналізу результатів досягнень у відповідній галузі сучасних компаній-розробників гвинто-рульових комплексів. В результаті дослідження основних напрямів розвитку сучасних суднових гвинто-рульових комплексів виділені такі підходи: зміна конструкції гвинто-рульового комплексу за допомогою, наприклад, добування таких елементів, як обтічник, вставка обтічника та маточина гребного гвинта (компанія Wärtsilä); використання гвинто-рульового комплексу із закрилком та в комбінації зі спеціальним підшипниковим вузлом KSR Rudder support (компанія Bekker Marine System); зміна положення гвинто-рульового комплексу з конструкцією руля зі скривленою передньою кромкою (компанія Bekker Marine System); реалізація гвинто-рульового комплексу у вигляді гвинто-рульової кутової колонки (компанія Aquamaster –Rauma Ltd); запропонована інноваційна система гвинта з активною рульовою насадкою Gate Rudder (компанія Wärtsilä, Kuribayashi Steamship Co та ін.). Результатом запропонованих інновацій є, наприклад, зниження споживання палива на 3-7% (компанія Wärtsilä), або підвищення керованості судном за рахунок того, що кут перекладки руля становить +/-65 градусів і додатковий кут у 45 градусів повороту закрилка забезпечують високу маневреність судна та гарне утримання позиції (компанія Bekker Marine System).Ключові слова: судно, гвинто-рульовий комплекс, руль, конструкція, керованість, маневреність, паливо.
МОЖЛИВІСТЬ КЕРУВАННЯ СИТУАЦІЄЮ НЕБЕЗПЕЧНОГО ЗБЛИЖЕННЯ
Authors: Дубинець О.В
Published: August 2023

У статті розглянуто керованість ситуацією зближення зміною курсу судна. Запропоновано кількісну оцінку керованості ситуацією зближення судном та отримано аналітичний вираз для її розрахунку. Діяльність показано, що характеристика керованості ситуацією зближення залежить від величини відносини швидкості судна і цілі. У випадку, коли швидкість судна більша за швидкість цілі, то характеристика дорівнює одиниці, в іншому випадку вона не перевищує 0,5.Ключові слова:безпека судноводіння, попередження зіткнення суден, маневр розходження ухиленням, керованість ситуацією зближення.
ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ВІМ-ОНТОЛОГІЙ ПРИ ІНТЕЛЕКТУАЛІЗАЦІЇ ПРОЦЕСІВ БУДІВНИЦТВА ОБ’ЄКТІВ ТРАНСПОРТНОЇ ІНФРАСТРУКТУРИ
Authors: Ткаченко Ольга Іванівна , Ткаченко Олександр Андрійович , Цура Вадим Васильович
Published: August 2023

Розглянуто проблематику інтелектуалізації процесів будівництва з використанням ВІМ-онтологійна прикладі сфери будівництва об’єктів транспортної інфраструктури. Проаналізовано деякі аспекти, етапи та принципи розробки інтелектуальних систем (інформаційних систем з елементами інтелектуалізації). Визначено основні вимоги до інтелектуалізації процесів будівництва об’єктів транспортної інфраструктури для вирішення широкого кола теоретичних і практичних проблем. Онтологічний підхід ґрунтується на розумінні онтології як деякої універсальної форми подання знань. Онтологічне моделювання процесів будівництва об’єктів транспортної інфраструктури та інтелектуалізація цих процесів сприяють вирішенню широкого кола задач проєктування, будівництва та експлуатації цих об’єктів завдяки врахуванню факторів, що відображено у відповідній багаторівневій онтологічній моделі.Наведено основні положення та інструментарій побудови онтології процесів будівництва об’єктів транспортної інфраструктури для визначення метаонтології предметної області, що розглядається. Інструментарієм є мова опису онтологій OWL та редактор онтологій Protégé. Інтелектуалізація процесів будівництва об’єктів транспортної інфраструктури на основі ВІМ-онтологій обумовила наступне: висока геометрична точність конструкцій, що отримується за допомогою BIM-технологій, і можливість передачі даних у САПР-системи підвищують технологічність виробництва, скорочують час монтажу, дають можливість реалізувати складні архітектурні форми, мінімізують час розробки проєкту чи внесення до нього змін; необхідність розробки стандартів, які б закріпили статус інформаційної моделі (в тому числі й онтологічної); необхідність розвитку власного програмного забезпечення підтримки ВІМ-технології.Розроблена багаторівнева онтологія сприяє термінологічній уніфікації та прискорює пошук інформації у базі знань відповідної інтелектуальної системи.Ключові слова: онтологія, онтологічна модель, ВІМ-онтологія, метаонтологія, інтелектуальні системи, інтелектуалізація процесів, предметна область, OWL, Protégé, будівництво об’єкту транспортної інфраструктури.
Implementation of Fruit Grading & Sorting Station Using Digital Image Processing Techniques
Authors: Abro Ghulame Mustafa , Kumar Kundan
Published: August 2023

No doubt that today's technology has approximately solved many common as well as complex issues. Engineers and researchers are always in the quest for the best, brief and efficient methods to cope up the real world problems, hence fruit grading and sorting are one of the problems in export/import industry. In this regard industry requires a station that can check the skin of fruit, i.e. an apple whether it has rotten spots on it or not beside this whole procedure this specific station will also check the radius of an apple for sorting it further for packaging process. This whole procedure will be followed by a running conveyor belt, 2 AC plungers and a wooden box in between them, which will have 5 Mega pixel camera mounted on it. The camera will be triggered by a brief algorithm of digital image processing designed on the platform of MATLAB R2015a version and conclude whether the fruit, i.e. an apple is healthy or having some rotten spots on its skin. Once results are shown, then the algorithm will activate the respective plunger for grading and sorting of apples.
Discourse Network Analysis: Studi Kasus pada Kebijakan Kenaikan Harga Bahan Bakar Minyak (BBM) Pertamina
Authors:   Universitas Indonesia, Sofura Annisyu Mafa
Published: August 2023

Fuel oil is one of the important commodities in society and simultaneously affects various sectors. The increase in fuel prices is an unpopular policy in society, but it must still be taken by the government. Various responses and speculations emerged in the public and elite spheres, both in the form of support or rejection regarding the discourse. The purpose of this research is to find out the discourse network of the fuel price increase policy by looking at the debate map that occurs, as well as knowing the actors and concepts involved in it. The data collection technique was carried out using the Discourse Network Analysis (DNA) method using the Pertamina fuel price increase policy discourse in online media in the period August 27-September 10, 2022. The results showed that the issue debate in this discourse was dominated by a coalition of skeptics consisting of the community, student associations, think tanks, political parties and some factions in the DPR. Meanwhile, the supporting coalition is dominated by government figures, such as the President, Ministers, Members of Parliament, as well as economic and social observers.
Komunikasi Interpersonal Termediasi Pekerja Laki-Laki Pengguna Badoo: Resiprokal dan Tak Terburu-buru
Authors:   President University, Suyanto Yessica , Supardi Achmad ,   President University
Published: August 2023

Cultural pressure to marry soon is not only experienced by women but also by men. Working adult men are under more intense pressure because they are considered mature, well-established, and culturally positioned as carriers of family/surname names. Amid the pressure of limited time and the perception of higher risk in offline communication, more and more people are using online dating applications to initiate interpersonal communication in search of partners, one of which is Badoo. Using a phenomenological research design with main data from interviews and documentation of informant conversations in Badoo, this study identified the characteristics of interpersonal communication among male workers in Bekasi: driven by practicality, prioritizing privacy, highly determined by reciprocity, and preferring medium pace of communication. The purpose of their interpersonal communication is mainly to find friends to then be chosen as partners. Communication through online dating applications was chosen because it is considered practical, protects privacy, and is better at neutralizing psychological barriers such as shame and self-doubt. Communication via Badoo functions as a starting point for building chemistry before moving on to offline relationships. As a means of first assessment and screening, interpersonal communication that occurs at Badoo can be interrogative. The informants used reciprocity as an indicator as well as a variable for the effectiveness of interpersonal communication.
Studi Komunikasi Pemasaran Interaktif berbasis Live Streaming Online dalam menciptakan keterlibatan Konsumen
Authors:   Universitas Negeri Padang, Evanita Susi , Fahmi Zul ,   Universitas Negeri Padang, Syawalki Larisya ,   Universitas Negeri Padang
Published: August 2023

Marketing communication is an effort made to convey the value of a product to customers through various relevant efforts, including by utilizing social media such as Tiktok. Live streaming is a feature of Tiktok which is usually done as a medium for self-expression for users, which has changed its function as a media for realtime product promotion and sales. Live streaming can increase consumer engagement and allow for direct interaction between sellers and buyers directly. The purpose of this study is to find out and analyze how added value is felt, interest and consumer trust when shopping through interactive live streaming. This study uses a case study method with a qualitative approach, data collection techniques in the form of interviews, observation, and documentation. The data analysis technique used is the presentation of data and conclusions as well as triangulation of data sources. The results of this study indicate that; the formation of value added felt by consumers when utilizing buying and selling through live streaming. There are attractions that are presented such as facilitating buyers and customers to connect according to their interests and will be synchronized automatically, as well as the emergence of live products according to customer interests. As well as building customer trust which is driven by the flow of two-way interactions, as well as products that appear immediately
Öğretmenlerin İzlenim Yönetimi Taktikleri, Örgütsel Muhalefet Düzeyleri İle Öznel İyi Oluş Durumları Arasındaki İlişki
Authors: ENGİNAR Rüveyda , ELMA Cevat
Published: August 2023

Bu araştırmada, öğretmenlerin izlenim yönetimi taktikleri, örgütsel muhalefet düzeyleri ve öznel iyi oluş durumları incelenmiştir. Bu değişkenlerin düzeyleri ve birbirleriyle olan ilişkileri araştırılmıştır. Örneklem, Ordu ili Altınordu, Fatsa ve Ünye ilçelerindeki kamu okullarında çalışan ve basit tesadüfi örnekleme yoluyla belirlenen 362 öğretmenden oluşmaktadır. Veriler, “Kişisel Bilgi Formu”, “İzlenim Yönetimi Taktikleri Ölçeği”, “Örgütsel Muhalefet Ölçeği” ve “Öğretmen Öznel İyi Oluş Ölçeği” ile toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde; aritmetik ortalama, standart sapma, Pearson çarpım momentler korelasyon katsayısı ve çoklu regresyon analizi teknikleri kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda; öğretmenlerin izlenim yönetimi taktikleri kullanımları ve örgütsel muhalefet düzeyleri orta düzeyde ve öznel iyi oluş durumları ise yüksek düzeyde bulunmuştur. Öğretmenlerin en sık kullandıkları izlenim yönetimi taktiği “özür dileme”, en az kullandıkları taktik “engel koyma”dır. En çok kullanılan muhalefet türü “dikey muhalefet”, en az kullanılan ise “dışa aktarılmış muhalefet”tir. İzlenim yönetimi taktikleri, örgütsel muhalefet ve öznel iyi oluş değişkenleri arasında, düşük düzeyde ve pozitif yönde anlamlı ilişkiler bulunmuştur. İzlenim yönetimi taktikleri ve örgütsel muhalefetin öğretmen öznel iyi oluşu üzerindeki yordayıcı etkisi anlamlı olup, toplam öznel iyi oluş ölçeğinin varyansının % 5.5’ini karşılamıştır.
Strongwomen? A Comparative Analysis of Gender Discourse in the Electoral Campaigns of Marine Le Pen and Giorgia Meloni
Authors: Griffini Marianna , Montecchio Laura
Published: August 2023

2022 was a momentous year for female leaders in the populist radical right: in the Italian general elections, Giorgia Meloni at the helm of Fratelli d’Italia (FdI), and in the French presidential elections Marine Le Pen at the helm of Rassemblement National (RN) scored meaningful electoral results, despite different outcomes. This paper investigates the ways in which female populist radical right party leaders present themselves as female leaders as well as they frame gender-related questions. Theoretically, we innovatively rework the existing concepts of hegemonic femininity and of ‘strongmen’ to create the concept of ‘strongwomen’. Methodologically, we use qualitative discourse analysis of the TikTok and Twitter accounts of the two female leaders.
Electoral change through generational replacement: An age-period-cohort analysis of vote choice across 21 countries between 1948 and 2021
Authors: Rekker Roderik
Published: August 2023

Citizens’ generation may have become one of the core predictors of their vote choice. This study examines this hypothesis across 21 Western established democracies between 1948 and 2021. An age-period-cohort analysis on 258 national election surveys (N = 462.084) reveals that the most recent generations are much less likely to vote for the major right-wing party in two-party systems. In multi-party systems, the gradual decline of Christian democratic parties has been largely driven by the generational replacement of pre-WW2 cohorts. Social democratic and conservative parties may face a challenge in future decades because their support is particularly low among the most recent generations whereas liberal, socialist, and particularly green parties stand to gain from generational replacement. Far-right parties have been least popular among voters who came of age during the 1930s and 1940s. A small life-cycle effect points out that people over the age of 65 vote slightly more conservative.
ÉLEMENTS D'INGENIERIE DE LOGICIELS EDUCATIFS, LE CAS DES MICROMONDES POUR LES MATHEMATIQUES : DIMENSION INFORMATIQUE
Authors: Bellemain Franck
Published: August 2023

Ce texte reprend, en la poursuivant, la présentation d’une étude de recherche et développement déjà partiellement publiée. Les principes de conception s’appuient sur l’ingénierie didactique informatique dans laquelle nous nous intéressons plus particulièrement à la partie initiale des analyses préalables dans leurs dimensions épistémologique, cognitive, didactique et informatique. Ces analyses préalables fournissent une étude approfondie du savoir et de son enseignement et apprentissage qui rend opérationnelle la transposition didactique informatique. Dans ce texte, nous abordons plus spécifiquement la dimension informatique des analyses préalable pour ébaucher une modélisation d’un micromonde générique offrant un support à l’exploration et résolution de problèmes nécessitant l’articulation entre divers registres de représentation, et finalement ébaucher des structures de données. L’objectif de ce travail n’est pas seulement d’avancer sur les spécifications et leur modélisation, mais aussi, dans une ingénierie reverse, de favoriser le transfert technologique de micromonde déjà développés.
Research progress of 3D printed poly (ether ether ketone) in the reconstruction of craniomaxillofacial bone defects
Authors: Su Qiao , Qiao Yixin , Xiao Yile , Yang Shuhao , Wu Haoming , Li Jianan , He Xinlong , Hu Xulin , Yang Hui , Yong Xin
Published: August 2023

The clinical challenge of bone defects in the craniomaxillofacial region, which can lead to significant physiological dysfunction and psychological distress, persists due to the complex and unique anatomy of craniomaxillofacial bones. These critical-sized defects require the use of bone grafts or substitutes for effective reconstruction. However, current biomaterials and methods have specific limitations in meeting the clinical demands for structural reinforcement, mechanical support, exceptional biological performance, and aesthetically pleasing reconstruction of the facial structure. These drawbacks have led to a growing need for novel materials and technologies. The growing development of 3D printing can offer significant advantages to address these issues, as demonstrated by the fabrication of patient-specific bioactive constructs with controlled structural design for complex bone defects in medical applications using this technology. Poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK), among a number of materials used, is gaining recognition as a feasible substitute for a customized structure that closely resembles natural bone. It has proven to be an excellent, conformable, and 3D-printable material with the potential to replace traditional autografts and titanium implants. However, its biological inertness poses certain limitations. Therefore, this review summarizes the distinctive features of craniomaxillofacial bones and current methods for bone reconstruction, and then focuses on the increasingly applied 3D printed PEEK constructs in this field and an update on the advanced modifications for improved mechanical properties, biological performance, and antibacterial capacity. Exploring the potential of 3D printed PEEK is expected to lead to more cost-effective, biocompatible, and personalized treatment of craniomaxillofacial bone defects in clinical applications.
Mouse sperm energy restriction and recovery (SER) revealed novel metabolic pathways
Authors: Romarowski Ana , Fejzo Jasna , Nayyab Saman , Martin-Hidalgo David , Gervasi Maria G. , Balbach Melanie , Violante Sara , Salicioni Ana M. , Cross Justin , Levin Lonny R. , Buck Jochen , Visconti Pablo E.
Published: August 2023

Mammalian sperm must undergo capacitation to become fertilization-competent. While working on mice, we recently developed a new methodology for treating sperm in vitro, which results in higher rates of fertilization and embryo development after in vitro fertilization. Sperm incubated in media devoid of nutrients lose motility, although they remain viable. Upon re-adding energy substrates, sperm resume motility and become capacitated with improved functionality. Here, we explore how sperm energy restriction and recovery (SER) treatment affects sperm metabolism and capacitation-associated signaling. Using extracellular flux analysis and metabolite profiling and tracing via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS), we found that the levels of many metabolites were altered during the starvation phase of SER. Of particular interest, two metabolites, AMP and L-carnitine, were significantly increased in energy-restricted sperm. Upon re-addition of glucose and initiation of capacitation, most metabolite levels recovered and closely mimic the levels observed in capacitating sperm that have not undergone starvation. In both control and SER-treated sperm, incubation under capacitating conditions upregulated glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. However, ATP levels were diminished, presumably reflecting the increased energy consumption during capacitation. Flux data following the fate of 13C glucose indicate that, similar to other cells with high glucose consumption rates, pyruvate is converted into 13C-lactate and, with lower efficiency, into 13C-acetate, which are then released into the incubation media. Furthermore, our metabolic flux data show that exogenously supplied glucose is converted into citrate, providing evidence that in sperm cells, as in somatic cells, glycolytic products can be converted into Krebs cycle metabolites.
Pathogenesis and distribution of infective endocarditis in the pediatric population: a 20-year experience in a tertiary care center in a developing country
Authors: Rashed Moustafa , Fakhri Ghina , Zareef Rana , Abdul Halim Nour , Ahmed Mohamed , Dbaibo Ghassan , El-Rassi Issam , Bitar Fadi , Arabi Mariam Toufic
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Infective endocarditis is an infection of the endothelial surfaces of the heart. It is more prevalent in adults but its incidence in the pediatric population has been on the rise. The most important factor remains congenital heart disease and the most isolated pathogen is viridans group streptococcus.

Methods

In this manuscript, we present a 20-year experience of a major referral tertiary care center in diagnosing and treating pediatric patients with endocarditis. A retrospective analysis of records of patients who were diagnosed with infective endocarditis under the age of 18 years is presented in this study. Variables relating to the demographic, imaging, microbiologic and pathologic data are described. Outcomes relating to complications and need for surgical repair are also portrayed.

Results

A total of 70 pediatric patients were diagnosed with endocarditis in this time interval. The medical records of 65 patients were comprehensively reviewed, however the remaining 5 patients had severely missing data. Of the 65 patients, 55.4% were males, and the mean age at diagnosis was 7.12 years. More than half of the population (58.5%) had vegetation evident on echocardiography. The pulmonary valve was the most commonly affected (50%), followed by the mitral valve and tricuspid valves (15.6%). Most patients received empiric treatment with vancomycin and gentamicin. Viridans group streptococcus was the most frequently isolated organism (23.4%).

Conclusion

Among pediatric patients diagnosed with endocarditis in this study, data pertaining to valve involvement and microbiologic information was consistent with the published literature. The incidence of complications and the need for surgical repair are not significantly correlated with demographic and clinical variables.
How new generation techniques are shaping the future of environmental sciences
Authors: Gruszecka-Kosowska Agnieszka , Ampatzoglou Antonios , Pineda-Pampliega Javier , Mihalache Octavian Augustin
Published: August 2023

This perspective highlights the role of new-generation analytical techniques in future applications in environmental sciences since the shift to the One Health research paradigm. It reviews the interactions between the compartments of One Health and indicates the current challenges in traditional environmental research. The term One Health was first used at the beginning of the 20th century, yet much is still needed for the cross-disciplinary research collaboration required in this approach.
The HLA class I immunopeptidomes of AAV capsid proteins
Authors: Brito-Sierra Carlos A. , Lannan Megan B. , Malherbe Laurent P. , Siegel Robert W.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Cellular immune responses against AAV vector capsid represent an obstacle for successful gene therapy. Previous studies have used overlapping peptides spanning the entire capsid sequence to identify T cell epitopes recognized by AAV-specific CD8+ T cells. However, the repertoire of peptides naturally displayed by HLA class I molecules for CD8 T cell recognition is unknown.

Methods

Using mRNA transfected monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) and MHC-associated peptide proteomics (MAPPs), we identified the HLA class I immunopeptidomes of AAV2, AAV6 and AAV9 capsids. MDDCs were isolated from a panel of healthy donors that have diverse alleles across the US population. mRNA-transfected MDDCs were lysed, the peptide:HLA complexes immunoprecipitated, and peptides eluted and analyzed by mass spectrometry.

Results

We identified 65 AAV capsid-derived peptides loaded on HLA class I molecules of mRNA transfected monocyte derived dendritic cells. The HLA class I peptides are distributed along the entire capsid and more than 60% are contained within HLA class II clusters. Most of the peptides are organized as single species, however we identified twelve clusters containing at least 2 peptides of different lengths. Only 9% of the identified peptides have been previously identified as T cell epitopes, demonstrating that the immunogenicity potential for the vast majority of the AAV HLA class I immunopeptidome remains uncharacterized. In contrast, 12 immunogenic epitopes identified before were not found to be naturally processed in our study. Remarkably, 11 naturally presented AAV peptides were highly conserved among the three serotypes analyzed suggesting the possibility of cross-reactive AAV-specific CD8 T cells.

Discussion

This work is the first comprehensive study identifying the naturally displayed HLA class I peptides derived from the capsid of AAVs. The results from this study can be used to generate strategies to assess immunogenicity risk and cross-reactivity among serotypes during gene therapies.
Association between alleles, haplotypes, and amino acid variations in HLA class II genes and type 1 diabetes in Kuwaiti children
Authors: Dashti Mohammed , Nizam Rasheeba , Jacob Sindhu , Al-Kandari Hessa , Al Ozairi Ebaa , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Al-Mulla Fahd
Published: August 2023

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex autoimmune disorder that is highly prevalent globally. The interactions between genetic and environmental factors may trigger T1D in susceptible individuals. HLA genes play a significant role in T1D pathogenesis, and specific haplotypes are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. Identifying risk haplotypes can greatly improve the genetic scoring for early diagnosis of T1D in difficult to rank subgroups. This study employed next-generation sequencing to evaluate the association between HLA class II alleles, haplotypes, and amino acids and T1D, by recruiting 95 children with T1D and 150 controls in the Kuwaiti population. Significant associations were identified for alleles at the HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQA1, and HLA-DQB1 loci, including DRB1*03:01:01, DQA1*05:01:01, and DQB1*02:01:01, which conferred high risk, and DRB1*11:04:01, DQA1*05:05:01, and DQB1*03:01:01, which were protective. The DRB1*03:01:01~DQA1*05:01:01~DQB1*02:01:01 haplotype was most strongly associated with the risk of developing T1D, while DRB1*11:04-DQA1*05:05-DQB1*03:01 was the only haplotype that rendered protection against T1D. We also identified 66 amino acid positions across the HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQA1, and HLA-DQB1 genes that were significantly associated with T1D, including novel associations. These results validate and extend our knowledge on the associations between HLA genes and T1D in Kuwaiti children. The identified risk alleles, haplotypes, and amino acid variations may influence disease development through effects on HLA structure and function and may allow early intervention via population-based screening efforts.
DNA methylation patterns in CD4+ T-cells separate psoriasis patients from healthy controls, and skin psoriasis from psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Natoli Valentina , Charras Amandine , Hofmann Sigrun R. , Northey Sarah , Russ Susanne , Schulze Felix , McCann Liza , Abraham Susanne , Hedrich Christian M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Psoriasis is an autoimmune/inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the skin. Chronic joint inflammation triggers the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in approximately one-third of psoriasis patients. Although joint disease typically follows the onset of skin psoriasis, in around 15% of cases it is the initial presentation, which can result in diagnostic delays. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying psoriasis and PsA are not yet fully understood, but there is evidence pointing towards epigenetic dysregulation involving CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate disease-associated DNA methylation patterns in CD4+ T-cells from psoriasis and PsA patients that may represent potential diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers.

Methods

PBMCs were collected from 12 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis and 8 PsA patients, and 8 healthy controls. CD4+ T-cells were separated through FACS sorting, and DNA methylation profiling was performed (Illumina EPIC850K arrays). Bioinformatic analyses, including gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis, were performed using R. To identify genes under the control of interferon (IFN), the Interferome database was consulted, and DNA Methylation Scores were calculated.

Results

Numbers and proportions of CD4+ T-cell subsets (naïve, central memory, effector memory, CD45RA re-expressing effector memory cells) did not vary between controls, skin psoriasis and PsA patients. 883 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) affecting 548 genes were identified between controls and “all” psoriasis patients. Principal component and partial least-squares discriminant analysis separated controls from skin psoriasis and PsA patients. GO analysis considering promoter DMPs delivered hypermethylation of genes involved in “regulation of wound healing, spreading of epidermal cells”, “negative regulation of cell-substrate junction organization” and “negative regulation of focal adhesion assembly”. Comparing controls and “all” psoriasis, a majority of DMPs mapped to IFN-related genes (69.2%). Notably, DNA methylation profiles also distinguished skin psoriasis from PsA patients (2,949 DMPs/1,084 genes) through genes affecting “cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor activity” and “cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulator activity”. Treatment with cytokine inhibitors (IL-17/TNF) corrected DNA methylation patterns of IL-17/TNF-associated genes, and methylation scores correlated with skin disease activity scores (PASI).

Conclusion

DNA methylation profiles in CD4+ T-cells discriminate between skin psoriasis and PsA. DNA methylation signatures may be applied for quantification of disease activity and patient stratification towards individualized treatment.
Role of toll-like receptors and nod-like receptors in acute lung infection
Authors: Le John , Kulatheepan Yathushigan , Jeyaseelan Samithamby
Published: August 2023

The respiratory system exposed to microorganisms continuously, and the pathogenicity of these microbes not only contingent on their virulence factors, but also the host’s immunity. A multifaceted innate immune mechanism exists in the respiratory tract to cope with microbial infections and to decrease tissue damage. The key cell types of the innate immune response are macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells. Both the myeloid and structural cells of the respiratory system sense invading microorganisms through binding or activation of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) to pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and NOD-like receptors (NLRs). The recognition of microbes and subsequent activation of PRRs triggers a signaling cascade that leads to the activation of transcription factors, induction of cytokines/5chemokines, upregulation of cell adhesion molecules, recruitment of immune cells, and subsequent microbe clearance. Since numerous microbes resist antimicrobial agents and escape innate immune defenses, in the future, a comprehensive strategy consisting of newer vaccines and novel antimicrobials will be required to control microbial infections. This review summarizes key findings in the area of innate immune defense in response to acute microbial infections in the lung. Understanding the innate immune mechanisms is critical to design host-targeted immunotherapies to mitigate excessive inflammation while controlling microbial burden in tissues following lung infection.
Mechanisms and models for industry engagement in collaborative research in commercial fisheries
Authors: Baker Matthew R. , Alverson Robert , Christiansen Ruth , Criddle Keith , Eilertsen Danny , Foy Robert J. , Gauvin John , Goodman Scott E. , Habegger Leigh , Harris Bradley P. , Kimball Nicole , Mercer Anna Malek , Poulsen Edward , Robinson Matt , Rusin Jeremy , Skinner Rebecca , Sparrevohn Claus Reedtz , Stokesbury Kevin D. E. , Sykes Daryl R.
Published: August 2023

Data and insights from fishers are essential sources of information to advance understanding of fishery and ecosystem dynamics. Incorporating fisher and industry knowledge holds prospects for improving marine science and fisheries management. We address cooperative research in the context of collaboration between fishers, scientists, industries, universities, and agencies to develop applied research to understand marine ecosystems, inform fishery management, enhance sustainability, govern resource use, and investigate social-economic dynamics. We leverage the insights of more than 100 research scientists, fisheries managers, industry representatives, and fishers to outline actionable recommendations for effective approaches and mechanisms to integrate industry data, perspectives, and insights in fisheries science. We also highlight opportunities and address challenges and limitations to such collaboration.
Ocean-based negative emissions technologies: a governance framework review
Authors: Röschel Lina , Neumann Barbara
Published: August 2023

The model pathways of the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) for the timely achievement of global climate targets, especially the target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels, suggest the need for safeguarding and enhancing the global carbon sink. Experts argue that the deployment of so-called negative emissions technologies for large-scale carbon dioxide removal holds potential for keeping the temperature in line with limits set by the Paris Agreement. Ocean-based negative emissions technologies (ONETs) intend to enhance carbon sequestration and storage in the ocean, e.g., by changing the ocean’s physical or biogeochemical properties. But in addition to these intended effects, ONETs may also cause unintentional impacts on the ocean’s condition and on related coastal and marine ecosystem services that are relevant for the attainment of a range of global policy goals. This article links potential direct and indirect, intentional and unintentional impacts of eight ONETs on the marine environment to the regulations and policy goals of international environmental agreements of the current global ocean governance regime. The results thereof outline a direct, implicit and indirect governance framework of ONETs. Hereby, a broader perspective of the concept of (global) ocean governance is adopted to outline a wider network that goes beyond the explicit regulation of ONETs within the realm of ocean governance. This first-order assessment derives gaps and challenges in the existing governance framework, as well as needs and opportunities for comprehensive governance of the technologies. It is determined that while the inclusion of ONETs in the global climate strategy may be deemed necessary for reaching net zero emission targets in the future, a range of potential trade-offs with other policy goals may need to be considered or dealt with when deploying ONETS for climate mitigation. Further, foresight-oriented and adaptive governance mechanisms appear imperative to bridge gaps resulting from extensive uncertainties and unknowns linked to ONET deployment in a changing ocean and. The identified ONET governance framework reiterates current challenges in ocean governance, for instance related to fragmentation, but also represents an opportunity for a synergistic and integrated approach to future governance.
Role of radiomics in predicting lymph node metastasis in gastric cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Miccichè Francesco , Rizzo Gianluca , Casà Calogero , Leone Mariavittoria , Quero Giuseppe , Boldrini Luca , Bulajic Milutin , Corsi Domenico Cristiano , Tondolo Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Gastric cancer (GC) is an aggressive and clinically heterogeneous tumor, and better risk stratification of lymph node metastasis (LNM) could lead to personalized treatments. The role of radiomics in the prediction of nodal involvement in GC has not yet been systematically assessed. This study aims to assess the role of radiomics in the prediction of LNM in GC.

Methods

A PubMed/MEDLINE systematic review was conducted to assess the role of radiomics in LNM. The inclusion criteria were as follows: i. original articles, ii. articles on radiomics, and iii. articles on LNM prediction in GC. All articles were selected and analyzed by a multidisciplinary board of two radiation oncologists and one surgeon, under the supervision of one radiation oncologist, one surgeon, and one medical oncologist.

Results

A total of 171 studies were obtained using the search strategy mentioned on PubMed. After the complete selection process, a total of 20 papers were considered eligible for the analysis of the results. Radiomics methods were applied in GC to assess the LNM risk. The number of patients, imaging modalities, type of predictive models, number of radiomics features, TRIPOD classification, and performances of the models were reported.

Conclusions

Radiomics seems to be a promising approach for evaluating the risk of LNM in GC. Further and larger studies are required to evaluate the clinical impact of the inclusion of radiomics in a comprehensive decision support system (DSS) for GC.
Hospital length of stay prediction tools for all hospital admissions and general medicine populations: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gokhale Swapna , Taylor David , Gill Jaskirath , Hu Yanan , Zeps Nikolajs , Lequertier Vincent , Prado Luis , Teede Helena , Enticott Joanne
Published: August 2023

Background

Unwarranted extended length of stay (LOS) increases the risk of hospital-acquired complications, morbidity, and all-cause mortality and needs to be recognized and addressed proactively.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to identify validated prediction variables and methods used in tools that predict the risk of prolonged LOS in all hospital admissions and specifically General Medicine (GenMed) admissions.

Method

LOS prediction tools published since 2010 were identified in five major research databases. The main outcomes were model performance metrics, prediction variables, and level of validation. Meta-analysis was completed for validated models. The risk of bias was assessed using the PROBAST checklist.

Results

Overall, 25 all admission studies and 14 GenMed studies were identified. Statistical and machine learning methods were used almost equally in both groups. Calibration metrics were reported infrequently, with only 2 of 39 studies performing external validation. Meta-analysis of all admissions validation studies revealed a 95% prediction interval for theta of 0.596 to 0.798 for the area under the curve. Important predictor categories were co-morbidity diagnoses and illness severity risk scores, demographics, and admission characteristics. Overall study quality was deemed low due to poor data processing and analysis reporting.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review assessing the quality of risk prediction models for hospital LOS in GenMed and all admissions groups. Notably, both machine learning and statistical modeling demonstrated good predictive performance, but models were infrequently externally validated and had poor overall study quality. Moving forward, a focus on quality methods by the adoption of existing guidelines and external validation is needed before clinical application.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42021272198.
Probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917-derived outer membrane vesicles modulate the intestinal microbiome and host gut-liver metabolome in obese and diabetic mice
Authors: Shi Jun , Ma DongXue , Gao ShanHu , Long Fei , Wang Xin , Pu XingYu , Cannon Richard D. , Han Ting-Li
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Obesity and diabetes are common chronic metabolic disorders which can cause an imbalance of the intestinal flora and gut-liver metabolism. Several studies have shown that probiotics, includingEscherichia coliNissle 1917 (EcN), promote microbial balance and metabolic health. However, there are no studies on how EcN outer membrane vesicles (EcN-OMVs) influence the intestinal microflora and affect the metabolic disorders of obesity and diabetes.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated the effects of EcN-OMVs on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and HFD + streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes.

Results

EcN-OMVs could reduce body weight, decrease blood glucose, and increase plasma insulin in obese mice. Similarly, EcN-OMVs treatment could modify the ratio ofFirmicutes/Bacteroidetesin the gut, elevate intestinal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing flora, and influence the SCFA content of the intestine. Furthermore, the intestinal metabolites ornithine and fumaric acid, hepatic ω-6 unsaturated fatty acids, and SCFAs were significantly increased after administering EcN-OMVs.

Discussion

Overall, this study showed that EcN-OMVs might act as post-biotic agents that could modulate gut-liver metabolism and ameliorate the pathophysiology of obesity and diabetes.
Current approaches to vision restoration using optogenetic therapy
Authors: Parnami Kashish , Bhattacharyya Anwesha
Published: August 2023

Inherited progressive degeneration of photoreceptors such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common cause of blindness leading to severe vision impairment affecting ~1 in 5,000 people worldwide. Although the function and morphology of the photoreceptors get disrupted, there is evidence that the inner retinal neurons such as bipolar cells and the retinal ganglion cells are left intact until later stages. Among several innovative therapeutic options aiming to restore vision, optogenetic therapy can bestow light sensitivity to remaining retinal neurons by ectopic expression of light-sensitive proteins. Since the advent of this technique, a diverse class of opsins (microbial and mammalian opsins), chimeric proteins, ligand-gated ion channels, and switchable opsins have been used to study their potential in vision restoration. These proteins differ in their excitation spectra, response kinetics, and signal amplification cascade. Although most of the studies have reported high fidelity of responses in the retina, only a handful of them have achieved functional vision in the visual cortex. This review is a summary of the visuocortical and behavioral responses after optogenetic treatment of the degenerated retina. This clarifies to what extent improved and meaningful vision can be obtained for therapeutic efficacy and continued clinical progress.