bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Una visión interdisciplinaria del SIDA en la década de 1980: En el escenario, Periodismo y Salud
Authors: Lopes Pablo de Oliveira , Neves Paulo Sérgio da Costa , Pereira Lucas de Almeida
Published: September 2020

Este artículo presenta el síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida (SIDA, en portugués, o SIDA), cuando apareció en la década de 1980 desde una perspectiva interdisciplinaria: por un lado, se abordan los signos, síntomas, métodos de diagnóstico y tratamiento y forman parte del modelo biomédico que participa en la interpretación de esta enfermedad; por otro, las representaciones de la enfermedad en artículos periodísticos publicados en el periódico O Globo, uno de los más importantes de Brasil. La salud y el periodismo ayudan a construir ideas y entender conceptos, prejuicios y estigmas que recaen y siguen cayendo sobre la enfermedad que se conoció como la plaga gay, una de las varias denominaciones atribuidas al SIDA cuando surgió. Se discute si es posible entender el proceso salud-enfermedad desde una perspectiva plural, que va más allá de los límites de la medicina. Para ello, analizamos textos del periódico O Globo, que tratan sobre el binomio del VIH/SIDA, prestando especial atención al lenguaje y la lexicografía utilizados en la elaboración de los mismas, y teniendo en cuenta la visión médica sobre la enfermedad en la década de 1980. El trabajo nos permite concluir que es posible y necesario afrontar el proceso de salud-enfermedad utilizando no sólo fenómenos biológicos, sino utilizando aspectos sociales, económicos, políticos y ambientales, frente a diversos ámbitos disciplinarios.
Relationship of severity pruning and weather variables on quality fruit production of ber (Ziziphus mauritiana L. cv. Sanaur-2)
Authors: Khokhar Yogesh
Published: September 2020

Pruning had a vital role on the quality of fruit production in ber fruit crop under lower Shiwaliks of Punjab. The severity of pruning intensity significantly influenced the tree vegetative growth parameters and flowering behaviour of ber cv. Sanaur-2 viz. number of emerged shoots per branch, shoot length and girth of primary shoot. A significant higher percentage of fruit set, fruit retention, higher percentage of ‘A’ grade fruits and other fruit quality parameters viz., fruit weight, TSS, acidity, vitamin C, total sugars was recorded significantly higher in pruning treatment by removal 50 per cent vegetative growth over other treatments. Powdery mildew incidence steadily increased from standard meteorological weeks (SMW) 36 - 39 to 40 - 43 and then decreased under different pruning treatments. The severity of pruning reduces the incidence of powdery mildew. The meteorological knowledge on various weather variables at 3 - 4 weeks to actual incidence also can be effectively used to check the spread and severity of the disease.
Effects of vermicompost and PK on growth and protein content of spinach (Spinacia oleracia L.)
Authors: Islam Md Mahfuz , Akther Sayada Momotaz , Sujon Shahin Ahmed , Karim Md Abdul , Rahman Md Khalilur
Published: September 2020

Results of a pot experiment carried out on spinach with vermicompost (5, 10 and 15 ton/ha), phospho-rous (10, 20 and 30 kg/ha) and potassium (20, 30 and 40 kg/ha) fertilizers showed that plant height, leaf area, fresh and dry weight of plants increased significantly (p ≤ 0.5) over the control. Highest height (23.55 cm), leaf area (80.88 cm2/plant), fresh weight (3.838 g/plant) and dry weight (0.274 g/plant) were maximum in VC15P20K30, VC15P30K30, VC10P20K30 and VC10P10K40, respectively, while leaf number was almost same in all the plants. Highest protein content (24.61%) was obtained in the treatment VC15P10K20. Highest dry matter of leaf was obtained at VC10P10K40, but the highest protein content was at VC15P10K20 which might be due to dilution effect. Similar values of protein content were obtained in treatments VC5P20K30, VC5P20K40, VC5P30K20, VC15P10K40, VC15P20K30 and VC15P30K20. Maximum value of nitrogen, phosphorous (1.621%) and potassium (4.066%) were obtained in treatments VC5P20K20 and VC10 P30 K40, VC15 P10 K20, respectively.
Variations in biological attributes and phenolics of enzymatically hydrolysed medicinal plant extracts
Authors: Qadir Rahman , Anwar Farooq , Mehmood Tahir , Zahoor Sadaf , Mehmood Naunain
Published: September 2020

Major objective of this study was to appraise the variations in biological activities and phenolics of enzymatically hydrolysed medicinal plants, namely Morus alba (L.), Momordica balsamina (L.), Capparis spinosa (L.), Pongamia pinnata (L.) and Peganum hermala (L.) indigenous to Pothoharic region of Pakistan. Enzyme cocktails such as kemzyme dry-plus, natuzyme and zympex-014 were employed for enzyme-assisted extraction. Best antimicrobial activity was exhibited by zympex-014 produced extracts against selected strains of bacteria and fungi with inhibition zone of 18.54 and 21.45 mm, respectively. Similarly, zympex- 014 produced C. spinosa extract (1.21%) exhibited least hemolytic activity. However, greater thrombolytic activity (51.93%) was exhibited by kemzyme dry-plus produced M. balsamina extract. Moreover, major phenolics detected in selected medicinal plants using RP-HPLC were gallic acid (272 μg/g), quercitin (269 μg/g), benzoic acid (184 μg/g), vanillic acid (100 μg/g) and cinnamic acid (68 μg/g). Overall, the above results revealed that enzymatic pre-treatment facilitated in the liberation of bound phenolic moieties from selected medicinal plants and thus improved their biological attributes.
Training and Learning Minimally Invasive Urology Bangladesh Perspectives
Authors: Salam MA
Published: September 2020

Abstract Not Available
Bangladesh Journal of Urology, Vol. 17, No. 1, Jan 2014 p.47-52
Variable and spatially explicit response of fish larvae to the playback of local, continuous reef soundscapes
Authors: Suca JJ , Lillis A , Jones IT , Kaplan MB , Solow AR , Earl AD , Habtes S , Apprill A , Llopiz JK , Mooney TA
Published: September 2020

Understanding the cues that drive larval fish settlement is critical for managing reef systems under stress. Reef sound is increasingly reported to influence fish recruitment, yet the physical and acoustic environment in which larval fish settle varies in space and time. Accordingly, testing potential settlement cues under different conditions is vital for understanding their ecological importance. We conducted 2 sets of field playback experiments in St. John, US Virgin Islands, one nearshore (10 m depth) and the second ‘offshore’ (25 m depth), to assess the effects of reef soundscape playback on settlement rates of multiple reef fish families. In each experiment, nightly currents were quantified and we replicated the diel soundscape cycle using high, low, and control (silent) amplitude recordings from nearby reefs. The first experiment revealed significant current-based, down-stream reduction in larval fish catches in subsurface light traps and a significant effect of increasing amplitude of reef playbacks on larval lizardfish (Synodontidae) catches. In the second, offshore experiment which had no current effect, increasing reef playback amplitude led to a significantly greater catch of parrotfish (Scaridae) larvae and decreased larval pelagic fish catch. Total reef fish larvae only showed attraction to reef playbacks at the most nearshore site. This work demonstrates that while sound can play a role in the settlement of certain reef fishes, responses are influenced by multiple factors, including larger-scale physical processes, underscoring the need to consider the scale of soundscape cues for reef fish settlement within an oceanographic context.
Seasonal patterns of benthic-pelagic coupling in oyster habitats
Authors: Ray NE , Fulweiler RW
Published: September 2020

Oysters enhance benthic-pelagic coupling in coastal systems by moving large quantities of suspended particulates to the sediments, stimulating biogeochemical processes. Recent research efforts have focused on quantifying the impact of oysters on coastal biogeochemical cycling, yet there is little consensus on how oysters influence processes across systems. A potential driver of this variance is availability of organic material suspended in the water column and subsequent loading to sediment by oysters. Here, we measured fluxes of sediment di-nitrogen (N2-N), ammonium (NH4+), combined nitrate-nitrite (NOx), and phosphate (PO43-) in spring, summer, and fall at 2 oyster reefs and 1 farm in a temperate estuary (Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island). We then linked these fluxes with patterns of water column primary production. Nitrogen removal from the system was highest in spring, when we detected net sediment denitrification (48.8 µmol N2-N m-2h-1) following a winter-spring diatom bloom. In contrast, we measured sediment N2fixation in fall (-44.8 µmol N2-N m-2h-1) at rates nearly equivalent to spring denitrification. In the summer, we measured a nearly net zero sediment N2-N flux (-2.7 µmol N2-N m-2h-1). Recycling of nitrogen to the water column was consistent across seasons, composed almost exclusively of NH4+. These results demonstrate that sediment nitrogen cycling in oyster habitats is dynamic and can change rapidly based on seasonal patterns of productivity. At carrying capacity, the impact of oysters on nitrogen cycling is large and should be considered during efforts to increase oyster populations through aquaculture or reef restoration.
Putting prey into the picture: improvements to species distribution models for bottlenose dolphins in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Authors: Bennington S , Rayment W , Dawson S
Published: September 2020

Species distribution models (SDMs) often rely on abiotic variables as proxies for biotic relationships. This means that important biotic relationships may be missed, creating ambiguity in our understanding of the drivers of habitat use. These problems are especially relevant for populations of predators, as their habitat use is likely to be strongly influenced by the distribution of their prey. We investigated habitat use of a population of a top predator, bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus, in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand, using generalised additive models, and compared the results of models with and without biotic predictor variables. We found that although habitat use by bottlenose dolphins was significantly correlated with abiotic variables that likely describe foraging areas, introduction of biotic variables describing potential prey almost doubled the deviance explained, from 19.8 to 39.1%. Biotic variables were the most important of the predictors used, and indicated that the dolphins showed a preference for areas with a high abundance of a reef fish, girdled wrasse Notolabrus cinctus. For the dolphins of Doubtful Sound, these results show the importance of prey distribution in driving habitat use. On a broader scale, our results indicate that making an effort to include true biotic descriptors in SDMs can improve model performance, resulting in better understanding of the drivers of distribution of marine predators.
The ATOPOS cvc RIPPING Project: A ‘New’ Life for Dress Objects?
Authors: Pichou Myrsini
Published: September 2020

This article will examine the RIPPING ATOPOS project initiated by the Athens-based ATOPOS Contemporary Visual Culture Organization (ATOPOS). In this project, contemporary artists and fashion designers are commissioned to create their own works of art or garments, either inspired by specific pieces or by using duplicates of the 1960s paper dresses from the ATOPOS collection. The article describes results of the collaborations with the different artists and fashion designers. The project has enabled ATOPOS to investigate new ways of handling, managing and displaying its collection.
Evaluasi Kecernaan In Vitro Bahan Kering dan Bahan Organik Kulit Singkong Fermentasi Sebagai Bahan Pakan Ternak
Authors: Nasiu Firman , Salido Wa Laili , Tasse Andi Murlina , Syamsuddin Syamsuddin , Hadini Hairil A. , Indi Amiluddin
Published: September 2020

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk melakukan evaluasi kecernaan in vitro bahan kering dan bahan organik kulit singkong yang difermentasi menggunakan jamur Aspergillus niger dan EM-4 sehingga dapat memberikan informasi tambahan mengenai kualitas kulit siongkong yang difermentasi maupun tanpa fermentasi.  Rancangan penelitian yang digunakan adalah rancangan acak lengkap (RAL) yang terdiri atas 4 perlakuan dan 4 ulangan.  Perlakuan yang diberikan terhadap kulit singkong adalah P1 (tanpa fermentasi), P2 (fermentasi dengan Aspergillus niger), P3 (fermentasi dengan EM-4), P4 (fermentasi dengan kombinasi A. niger dan EM-4).  Evaluasi kecernaan in vitro ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Tilley and Terry.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penambahan jamur A. niger dan EM-4 dalam proses fermentasi kulit singkong dapat meningkatkan kecernaan bahan kering dan bahan kering kulit singkong secara signifikan dimana hasil terbaik diperoleh pada penambahan kombinas A. niger dan EM-4.Kata kunci: Aspergillus niger, bahan kering, bahan organik, EM-4, kecernaan in vitroABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro digestibility of dry matter and organic matter of fermented cassava peel using Aspergillus niger and EM-4 inoculant to provide additional information about the quality of fermented and unfermented cassava peel. The study design used was a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 4 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments were P1 (without fermentation), P2 (fermented with Aspergillus niger), P3 (fermented with EM-4), P4 (fermented with a combination of A. niger and EM-4). This in vitro digestibility evaluation was conducted by using the Tilley and Terry method. The results showed that the addition of A. niger fungi and EM-4 in the fermentation process of cassava peel could significantly improve the digestibility of dry matter and dry matter of cassava peel where the best results were obtained on the addition of A. niger and EM-4 combinations.Keywords: Aspergillus niger, dry matter, EM-4, in vitro digestibility, organic matter
Simulated Annealing with Exploratory Sensing for Global Optimization
Authors: Almarashi Majid , Deabes Wael , Amin Hesham H. , Hedar Abdel-Rahman
Published: September 2020

Simulated annealing is a well-known search algorithm used with success history in many search problems. However, the random walk of the simulated annealing does not benefit from the memory of visited states, causing excessive random search with no diversification history. Unlike memory-based search algorithms such as the tabu search, the search in simulated annealing is dependent on the choice of the initial temperature to explore the search space, which has little indications of how much exploration has been carried out. The lack of exploration eye can affect the quality of the found solutions while the nature of the search in simulated annealing is mainly local. In this work, a methodology of two phases using an automatic diversification and intensification based on memory and sensing tools is proposed. The proposed method is called Simulated Annealing with Exploratory Sensing. The computational experiments show the efficiency of the proposed method in ensuring a good exploration while finding good solutions within a similar number of iterations.
Servant Leadership in the Context of Mosque: A Qualitative Case Study of Muslim Women’s Perspectives
Authors: Jabarkhail Sami
Published: September 2020

This research provides an exploratory analysis of how Muslim women perceive servant leadership in the context of Mosque. The study consists of 8 long interviews with Muslim women, and conceptualizes sources of servant leadership in the context of Mosque by investigating Muslim women’s perceptions of the Imam’s leadership style The emerging taxonomy illuminates five categories and fifteen sub-categories of Muslim women’s perceived servant leadership origin, relating to the impact Imam and Mosque have on: (1) Serviceability, (2) masculinity, (3) community, (4) accessibility, and (5) inclusivity. Findings show disparities between women and men and demonstrate the fact that Muslim women do benefit from Imam’s leadership, services, and resources offered in Mosque; however, the benefits to women are disproportionate and different from men. In addition to making a vital contribution to the scarce literature on Muslim women’s perspectives, this article provides stakeholders with a comprehensive set of issues which may evoke favorable/unfavorable perceptions and offers insight to direct improvement efforts in addressing these issues.
Competence Development and Employability Expectations: A Gender Perspective of Mobility Programmes in Higher Education
Authors: Álamo-Vera Francisca Rosa , Hernández-López Lidia , Ballesteros-Rodríguez José Luis , De Saá-Pérez Petra
Published: September 2020

This paper analyses the role of study-abroad programmes in higher education by examining how students’ participation can foster competence development and employability expectations. Our research focuses on the acquisition of competences through the international mobility programme Erasmus+ of 191 students of an undergraduate programme in tourism, considering the different perceptions of male and female students. Our results confirm that five out of the six competences which students develop through Erasmus+ mobility have a positive and significant influence on their employability expectations. Our findings also confirm that male and female students have different perceptions concerning the influence on their employability expectations of those competences acquired during their experience studying abroad.
The Effect of Transitioning between Feeding Methods on the Gut Microbiota Dynamics of Yaks on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ling , Xu Tian-Wei , Wang Xun-Gang , Geng Yuan-Yue , Liu Hong-Jin , Hu Lin-Yong , Zhao Na , Kang Sheng-Ping , Zhang Wan-Min , Xu Shi-Xiao
Published: September 2020

Here we aimed to explore the change in yak gut microbiota after transferring yaks from grazing grassland to a feedlot, and determine their diet adaptation period. Five yaks were transferred from winter pasture to an indoor feedlot. Fecal samples were obtained from grazing (G) and feedlot feeding yaks at day 1 (D1), day 4 (D4), day 7 (D7), day 11 (D11), and day 16 (D16). The dynamic variation of the bacterial community was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed that the yak gut microbial community structure underwent significant changes after diet transition. At the phylum and genus levels, most bacteria changed within D1–D11; however, no significant changes were observed from D11–D16. Furthermore, we used random forest to determine the key bacteria (at class level) disturbing gut micro-ecology. The relative abundance of the top four classes (Erysipelotrichia, Gammaproteobacteria, Saccharimonadia, and Coriobacteriia) was highest on D1–D4, and then decreased and plateaued over time. Our results demonstrated that an abrupt adjustment to a diet with high nutrition could influence the gut micro-ecology, which was stabilized within 16 days, thus providing insights into diet adaptation in the yak gut.
Building Bridges between Theory and Practice: How Citizen Science Can Bring Equine Researchers and Practitioners Together
Authors: Fenner Kate , Dashper Katherine , Wilkins Cristina , Serpell James , McLean Andrew , Wilson Bethany , McGreevy Paul
Published: September 2020

Over the last decade, equitation scientists have increasingly relied on online survey tools to gather information on horse training, management, behaviour and other equine-related subjects. With a detailed knowledge of their animals, horse owners and riders are ideally placed to contribute to research but are sometimes reluctant to engage with and devote time to surveys. The current article reveals, through consultation with stakeholder groups, the potential of a range of motivational items to boost horse-owner participation. A short, three-question inquiry was developed to rank respondents’ (n = 747) preferred survey tools and other items designed to engage the equestrian community with the donation of data. Respondents were asked to assign themselves to one of four categories: academics/researchers, professionals, practitioners and enthusiasts. The inquiry offered respondents the choice of three hypothetical tools: a standardised tool to measure behaviour over time; a logbook tool to record training and behaviour on a regular basis; and a chart to compare an individual horse’s behaviour with that of the general horse population. While analysis revealed that stakeholders considered at least one of the tools to be useful, it also exposed significant differences among the perceived usefulness of the various tools themselves. Using free-text responses, participants described the challenges faced when gathering information on horse training, management and behaviour. Qualitative analysis of these data revealed the need to improve the current dissemination of scientific findings to bridge various knowledge gaps. The Equine Behavior Assessment and Research Questionnaire (E-BARQ) is a longitudinal instrument that investigates horse training and management practices and permits an analysis of their relationship with behaviour. The current stakeholder consultation contributed to the final version of the E-BARQ questionnaire, identified incentivising items that can be offered to putative E-BARQ respondents, guided the eventual selection of a Share-&-Compare feedback chart, and reinforced the need for open-access dissemination of findings.
Bacterial Load of the Teat Apex Skin and Associated Factors at Herd Level
Authors: Hohmann Maria-Franziska , Wente Nicole , Zhang Yanchao , Krömker Volker
Published: September 2020

In order to reduce antimicrobial treatment and prevent environmental mastitis, the aim of the present study was to investigate associations between herd level factors and microbial load on teat ends with environmental mastitis pathogens. Quarterly farm visits of 31 dairy farms over a one-year period were used for statistical analysis. During each farm visit, teat-skin swabs, bedding and air samples were taken and management practices and herd parameters were documented. Total mesophilic bacteria, esculin-positive streptococci and coliform bacteria were examined in the laboratory procedures from teat skin and environmental samples. Esculin-positive streptococci and coliform bacteria on teat ends increased with high temperature–humidity indices (THI) in the barn during the spring and summer. Significantly more coliform bacteria on teat ends were found in herds with an increased percentage of normal or slightly rough teat ends. Cleaning cubicles more frequently, pre-cleaning teats before milking as well as post-dipping them after milking had a decreasing effect of teat-skin load with total mesophilic and coliform bacteria at the herd level. To conclude, teat-skin bacterial load with environmental pathogens is subject to fluctuations and can be influenced by aspects of farm hygiene.
Evaluation of Bacillus licheniformis-Fermented Feed Additive as an Antibiotic Substitute: Effect on the Growth Performance, Diarrhea Incidence, and Cecal Microbiota in Weaning Piglets
Authors: Lin Kuei-Hung , Yu Yu-Hsiang
Published: September 2020

This study investigated the potential of a Bacillus licheniformis-fermented feed additive (BLF) as an antibiotic substitute in weaning piglets. Ninety-six crossbred piglets were randomly allotted into four treatments with three replicate pens per treatment and eight pigs per pen. Piglets were fed diets as follows: a basal diet as control, a basal diet supplemented with bacitracin (30 mg/kg of bacitracin methylene disalicylate), a basal diet supplemented with BLF (1 g/kg of the Bacillus licheniformis-fermented feed additive), and a basal diet supplemented with bacitracin and BLF (15 mg/kg of bacitracin methylene disalicylate and 0.5 g/kg of the Bacillus licheniformis-fermented feed additive). The results showed that replacing all or half the bacitracin with BLF both reduced the incidence of diarrhea in weaning piglets from day 1 to 14. Principal coordinates analysis and a species abundance heat map showed that distinct clusters were formed between groups. Replacing all the bacitracin with BLF reduced bacterial evenness in the cecal digesta of weaning piglets, while the inhibitory effect on bacterial evenness was reversed in the group treated with bacitracin in combination with BLF. These results indicated that the half replacement of bacitracin with BLF was able to decrease the incidence of diarrhea and modify cecal microbiota composition in weaning piglets, suggesting that a Bacillus licheniformis-fermented feed additive has good potential as a suitable alternative to antibiotics use in the swine industry.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Serum Adiponectin Measurements in the Framework of Dog Obesity
Authors: Muñoz-Prieto Alberto , Cerón José Joaquín , Martínez-Subiela Silvia , Mrljak Vladimir , Tvarijonaviciute Asta
Published: September 2020

Adiponectin is an abundant plasma protein that is closely related to obesity and obesity-related pathologies. The molecule can be found in three different isoforms, each with different biological activities. Studies on canine obesity have suggested that adiponectin concentrations are decreased in obesity; however, no canine meta-analyses have been performed that feature all the required data. The aim of this study is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that pertain to total and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin in relation to canine obesity. From 20 different studies, a total of 366 dogs with obesity and 349 normal weight dogs are included in the meta-analysis. Client-owned dogs were most represented, accounting for 54.3% of the dogs used, while experimental dogs enrolled in the studies made up the remaining 45.7%. The concentrations of total adiponectin in dogs with obesity were significantly lower compared with normal weight dogs. Additionally, adiponectin concentrations were significantly higher in dogs after a successful weight loss protocol compared to the start of the protocol and were significantly lower in dogs after gaining weight. In conclusion, although caution should be taken due to the relatively low number of studies that exist and the high heterogeneity between them, this meta-analysis indicates that adiponectin is decreased in obese dogs.
The Impact of Passive Green Technologies on the Microclimate of Historic Urban Structures: The Case Study of Lodz
Authors: Bochenek Anna Dominika , Klemm Katarzyna
Published: September 2020

Rapid population growth necessitates modifications of urban form, especially in city centers. Consequently, the correlation of the outdoor environment with the occupant’s behavior has profoundly changed. In this study, the authors describe a method, that allows for the estimation of the impact of passive green technologies on the microclimate of historic urban structures, taking into account the city-specific conditions. The Envi-met application, which is widely applied in urban climatology, was used to create the atmospheric processes simulation. Passive scenarios such as green roofs, living facades, and high greenery for chosen periods—warm conditions and the hottest day—were considered. It enabled an assessment of microclimatic outdoor conditions at the pedestrian (1.4 m) and living level (5 m). The results suggested that the highest temperature reduction was related to the tree scenarios (0.09 °C at 1.4 m and 0.18 °C at 5 m height for warm a period; 1.23 °C at 1.4 m and 1.31 °C at 5 m height for the hottest day). The thermal comfort was calculated through the usage of simulated output data. In our investigation, the maximum change in PET was 1.51 °C (for the warm period) and 5.41 °C (during the hottest day of the year). The findings have valuable implications for the design of the city’s structure.
Volcanic Ash Resuspension in Patagonia: Numerical Simulations and Observations
Authors: Mingari Leonardo , Folch Arnau , Dominguez Lucia , Bonadonna Costanza
Published: September 2020

Resuspension of pyroclastic deposits occurs under specific atmospheric and environmental conditions and typically prolongs and exacerbates the impact associated with the primary emplacement of tephra fallout and pyroclastic density current deposits. An accurate forecasting of the phenomenon, to support Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers (VAACs) and civil aviation management, depends on adapting volcanic ash transport and dispersion models to include specific ash emission schemes. Few studies have attempted to model the mechanisms of emission and transport of windblown volcanic ash, and a systematic study of observed cases has not been carried out yet. This manuscript combines numerical simulations along with a variety of observational data to examine the general features of ash resuspension events in northern Patagonia following the 2011 Cordón Caulle eruption (Chile). The associated outcomes provide new insights into the spatial distribution of sources, frequency of events, transport patterns, seasonal and diurnal variability, and spatio-temporal distribution of airborne ash. A novel modelling approach based on the coupling between Advanced Research core of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) and FALL3D models is presented, with various model improvements that allow overcoming some limitations in previous ash resuspension studies. Outcomes show the importance of integrating source information based on field measurements (e.g., deposit grain size distribution and particle density). We provide evidence of a strong diurnal and seasonal variability associated with the ash resuspension activity in Patagonia. According to the modelled emission fluxes, ash resuspension activity was found to be significantly more intense during daytime hours. Satellite observations and numerical simulations strongly suggest that major emission sources of resuspended ash were distributed across distal areas (>100 km from the vent) of the Patagonian steppe, covered by a thin layer of fine ash. The importance of realistic soil moisture data to properly model the spatial distribution of emission sources is also highlighted.
Natural Seepage of Methane and Light Alkanes at Three Locations in Southern California
Authors: Weed Brynne M. , Brambila Gisselle D. , Doezema Lambert A.
Published: September 2020

Methane and light (C2–C5) alkane fluxes were measured from three geologic seepage sites in Southern California during May and June of 2019. Samples were collected from visible macroseeps in Carpinteria, McKittrick, and Ojai using an aluminum flux chamber with attached stainless-steel canisters and were analyzed for C1 to C5 alkanes via gas chromatography. Carpinteria fluxes were characterized by a lower percentage of volatile organic compounds relative to methane but greatly enhanced (~20:1) ratios of i-butane to n-butane. McKittrick and Ojai exhibited less methane-rich emissions and i-butane to n-butane ratios of less than 2:1. The differences between gas ratios observed at the surface and those previously reported from underground gas deposits at Ojai suggest that gases undergo alterations to their molecular composition between deposit and surface. The ratios of emitted gases in this study show that not only does geologic seepage have a much different volatile organic compound profile than oil and natural gas extraction and pipeline natural gas, but also that individual geologic seepage locations exhibit large variability.
Elastin-Collagen Based Hydrogels as Model Scaffolds to Induce Three-Dimensional Adipocyte Culture from Adipose Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Newman Kristen , Clark Kendra , Gurumurthy Bhuvaneswari , Pal Pallabi , Janorkar Amol V.
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to probe the effect of formulation of scaffolds prepared using collagen and elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) and their resulting physico-chemical and mechanical properties on the adipogenic differentiation of human adipose derived stem cells (hASCs). Six different ELP-collagen scaffolds were prepared by varying the collagen concentration (2 and 6 mg/mL), ELP addition (6 mg/mL), or crosslinking of the scaffolds. FTIR spectroscopy indicated secondary bonding interactions between collagen and ELP, while scanning electron microscopy revealed a porous structure for all scaffolds. Increased collagen concentration, ELP addition, and presence of crosslinking decreased swelling ratio and increased elastic modulus and compressive strength of the scaffolds. The scaffold characteristics influenced cell morphology, wherein the hASCs seeded in the softer, non-crosslinked scaffolds displayed a spread morphology. We determined that stiffer and/or crosslinked elastin-collagen based scaffolds constricted the spreading of hASCs, leading to a spheroid morphology and yielded an enhanced adipogenic differentiation as indicated by Oil Red O staining. Overall, this study underscored the importance of spheroid morphology in adipogenic differentiation, which will allow researchers to create more physiologically-relevant three-dimensional, in vitro culture models.
The Origin and Immune Recognition of Tumor-Specific Antigens
Authors: Apavaloaei Anca , Hardy Marie-Pierre , Thibault Pierre , Perreault Claude
Published: September 2020

The dominant paradigm holds that spontaneous and therapeutically induced anti-tumor responses are mediated mainly by CD8 T cells and directed against tumor-specific antigens (TSAs). The presence of specific TSAs on cancer cells can only be proven by mass spectrometry analyses. Bioinformatic predictions and reverse immunology studies cannot provide this type of conclusive evidence. Most TSAs are coded by unmutated non-canonical transcripts that arise from cancer-specific epigenetic and splicing aberrations. When searching for TSAs, it is therefore important to perform mass spectrometry analyses that interrogate not only the canonical reading frame of annotated exome but all reading frames of the entire translatome. The majority of aberrantly expressed TSAs (aeTSAs) derive from unstable short-lived proteins that are good substrates for direct major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I presentation but poor substrates for cross-presentation. This is an important caveat, because cancer cells are poor antigen-presenting cells, and the immune system, therefore, depends on cross-presentation by dendritic cells (DCs) to detect the presence of TSAs. We, therefore, postulate that, in the untreated host, most aeTSAs are undetected by the immune system. We present evidence suggesting that vaccines inducing direct aeTSA presentation by DCs may represent an attractive strategy for cancer treatment.
Functional Mapping before and after Low-Grade Glioma Surgery: A New Way to Decipher Various Spatiotemporal Patterns of Individual Neuroplastic Potential in Brain Tumor Patients
Authors: Duffau Hugues
Published: September 2020

Intraoperative direct electrostimulation mapping (DEM) is currently the gold-standard for glioma surgery, since functional-based resection allows an optimization of the onco-functional balance (increased resection with preserved quality of life). Besides intrasurgical awake mapping of conation, cognition, and behavior, preoperative mapping by means of functional neuroimaging (FNI) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has increasingly been utilized for surgical selection and planning. However, because these techniques suffer from several limitations, particularly for direct functional mapping of subcortical white matter pathways, DEM remains crucial to map neural connectivity. On the other hand, non-invasive FNI and TMS can be repeated before and after surgical resection(s), enabling longitudinal investigation of brain reorganization, especially in slow-growing tumors like low-grade gliomas. Indeed, these neoplasms generate neuroplastic phenomena in patients with usually no or only slight neurological deficits at diagnosis, despite gliomas involving the so-called “eloquent” structures. Here, data gained from perioperative FNI/TMS mapping methods are reviewed, in order to decipher mechanisms underpinning functional cerebral reshaping induced by the tumor and its possible relapse, (re)operation(s), and postoperative rehabilitation. Heterogeneous spatiotemporal patterns of rearrangement across patients and in a single patient over time have been evidenced, with structural changes as well as modifications of intra-hemispheric (in the ipsi-lesional and/or contra-lesional hemisphere) and inter-hemispheric functional connectivity. Such various fingerprints of neural reconfiguration were correlated to different levels of cognitive compensation. Serial multimodal studies exploring neuroplasticity might lead to new management strategies based upon multistage therapeutic approaches adapted to the individual profile of functional reallocation.
DNA Polymerase Alpha Subunit B Is a Binding Protein for Erlotinib Resistance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kim Tae Young , Ji Eun Sun , Lee Ju Yeon , Kim Jin Young , Yoo Jong Shin , Szasz A. Marcell , Dome Balazs , Marko-Varga Gyorgy , Kwon Ho Jeong
Published: September 2020

Erlotinib inhibits epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase activity and is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite its high efficacy, recurrence can occur in patients who become resistant to the drug. To address the underlying mechanism of Erlotinib resistance, we investigated additional mechanisms related to mode-of-drug-action, by multiple protein-binding interactions, besides EGFR by using drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods with non-labeled Erlotinib. DNA polymerase alpha subunit B (POLA2) was identified as a new Erlotinib binding protein that was validated by the DARTS platform, complemented with cellular thermal shift assays. Genetic knock-down of POLA2 promoted the anti-proliferative effect of the drug in the Erlotinib-resistant cell line H1299 with high POLA2 expression, whereas the overexpression of POLA2 restored anti-proliferative effects in the Erlotinib-sensitive cell line HCC827 with low POLA2 expression. Importantly, POLA2 expression levels in four NSCLC cell lines were positively correlated with anti-proliferative Erlotinib efficacy (Pearson correlation coefficient, R = 0.9886). These results suggest that POLA2 is a novel complementary target protein of Erlotinib, and could clinically provide validity as a surrogate marker for drug resistance in patients with NSCLC.
High M-MDSC Percentage as a Negative Prognostic Factor in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Zarobkiewicz Michał , Kowalska Wioleta , Chocholska Sylwia , Tomczak Waldemar , Szymańska Agata , Morawska Izabela , Wojciechowska Agnieszka , Bojarska-Junak Agnieszka
Published: September 2020

In the current study, we analysed the role and prognostic value of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The frequency of circulating monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC; defined as CD14+CD11b+CD15-HLA-DR-/low cells) was assessed in correlation with clinical and laboratory parameters characterising the disease activity and patient immune status. Samples of peripheral blood from untreated CLL patients and healthy volunteers were stained with monoclonal antibodies for flow cytometry analysis. CLL patients with M-MDSC percentages above 9.35% (according to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis) had a shorter time-to-treatment and shorter survival time than the group with a lower percentage of M-MDSC. The M-MDSC percentage was higher in patients with adverse prognostic factors (i.e., 17p and 11q deletion and CD38 and ZAP-70 expression). A high M-MDSC percentage was linked to significantly lower expression of the CD3ζ in T cells. Furthermore, an analysis of immune regulatory molecules (arginase 1 (ARG1), nitric oxide synthase (NOS2), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and interleukin (IL)-10) was performed. By the means of flow cytometry and RT-qPCR, we showed an overexpression of three of them in M-MDSC of CLL patients. M-MDSC cells seem to be an important factor in the immunosuppressive microenvironment of CLL and seem to be a good and novel prognostic factor
Predictive Features of Malignancy in Branch Duct Type Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm of the Pancreas: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kwon Wooil , Han Youngmin , Byun Yoonhyeong , Kang Jae Seung , Choi Yoo Jin , Kim Hongbeom , Jang Jin-Young
Published: September 2020

The current guidelines on branch duct type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (BD-IPMN) recommend various predictive features of malignancy as well as different treatment strategies. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for malignancy with higher level of evidence. A meta-analysis was performed on 40 literatures published between 2000 and 2019. These literatures included 6301 patients with pathologically proven IPMN. Malignancy was defined as high-grade dysplasia and invasive carcinoma. It was significantly associated with symptoms (odds ratio [OR] 1.35, confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.79), size ≥ 3 cm (OR 1.90, CI 1.51–2.40), cystic wall thickening (OR 2.53, CI 1.50–4.27), mural nodule (OR 4.10, CI 3.38–4.97), main pancreatic duct dilatation (OR 2.98, CI 2.11–4.21), abrupt caliber change of the pancreatic duct (OR 7.41, CI 2.49–22.06), lymphadenopathy (OR 8.55, CI 3.25–22.51), elevated carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (OR 4.01, CI 2.55–6.28), and elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (OR 2.04, CI 1.60–2.61). Multilocular cysts and multiple cysts did not show a significant association with malignancy. This study examined the clinical, radiological, and biochemical features of BD-IPMN, often used as malignancy predictors according to the widely used guidelines. The results confirmed that all the features currently being used are valid.
Alterations in Gastric Microbial Communities Are Associated with Risk of Gastric Cancer in a Korean Population: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Gunathilake Madhawa , Lee Jeonghee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Il , Yoon Jaekyung , Sul Woo Jun , Kim Jihyun F. , Kim Jeongseon
Published: September 2020

Although the microbiome has a potential role in gastric cancer (GC), little is known about microbial dysbiosis and its functions. This study aimed to observe the associations between the alterations in gastric microbial communities and GC risk. The study participants included 268 GC patients and 288 controls. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to characterize the microbiome. Streptococcus_NCVM and Prevotella melaninogenica species were highly enriched in cases and controls, respectively. Those who were in the third tertile of P. melaninogenica showed a significantly decreased risk of GC in total (odds ratio (OR): 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.38–0.96, p-trend = 0.071). Class Bacilli was phylogenetically enriched in cases, while phylum Actinobacteria, class Actinobacteria were related to the controls. The microbial dysbiosis index (MDI) was significantly higher for the cases compared with the healthy controls in the female population (p = 0.002). Females in the third tertile of the MDI showed a significantly increased risk of GC (OR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.19-5.99, p-trend = 0.017). Secondary bile acid synthesis and biosynthesis of ansamycins pathways were highly abundant in cases and controls, respectively. Dysbiosis of gastric microbial communities is associated with an increased risk of GC specifically in females.
Metabolic Signaling Cascades Prompted by Glutaminolysis in Cancer
Authors: Shah Raj , Chen Suzie
Published: September 2020

Aberrant glutamatergic signaling has been implicated in altered metabolic activity and the demand to synthesize biomass in several types of cancer including melanoma. In the last decade, there has been a significant contribution to our understanding of metabolic pathways. An increasing number of studies are now emphasizing the importance of glutamate functioning as a signaling molecule and a building block for cancer progression. To that end, our group has previously illustrated the role of glutamatergic signaling mediated by metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (GRM1) in neoplastic transformation of melanocytes in vitro and spontaneous development of metastatic melanoma in vivo. Glutamate, the natural ligand of GRM1, is one of the most abundant amino acids in humans and the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Elevated levels of glutaminolytic mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates, especially glutamate, have been reported in numerous cancer cells. Herein, we highlight and critically review metabolic bottlenecks that are prevalent during tumor evolution along with therapeutic implications of limiting glutamate bioavailability in tumors.
Quantification of Boron Compound Concentration for BNCT Using Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Balcerzyk Marcin , De-Miguel Manuel , Guerrero Carlos , Fernandez Begoña
Published: September 2020

Background: Boron neutron capture therapy requires a 2 mM 10B concentration in the tumor. The well-known BNCT patient treatment method using boronophenylalanine (BPA) as a boron-carrying agent utilizes [18F]fluoroBPA ([18F]FBPA) as an agent to qualify for treatment. Precisely, [18F]FBPA must have at least a 3:1 tumor to background tissue ratio to qualify the patient for BNCT treatment. Normal, hyperplasia, and cancer thyroids capture iodine and several other large ions, including BF4−, through a sodium-iodine symporter (NIS) expressed on the cell surface in normal conditions. In cancer, NIS is also expressed within the thyroid cell and is not functional. Methods: To visualize the thyroids and NIS, we have used a [18F]NaBF4 positron emission tomography (PET) tracer. It was injected into the tail veins of rats. The [18F]NaBF4 PET tracer was produced from NaBF4 by the isotopic exchange of natural 19F with radioactive 18F. Rats were subject to hyperplasia and tumor-inducing treatment. The NIS in thyroids was visualized by immunofluorescence staining. The boron concentration was calculated from Standard Uptake Values (SUV) in the PET/CT images and from the production data. Results: 41 MBq, 0.64 pmol of [18F]NaBF4 PET tracer that contained 0.351 mM, 53 nmol of NaBF4 was injected into the tail vein. After 17 min, the peak activity in the thyroid reached 2.3 MBq/mL (9 SUVmax). The natB concentration in the thyroid with hyperplasia reached 381 nM. Conclusions: Such an incorporation would require an additional 110 mg/kg dose of [10B]NaBF4 to reach the necessary 2 mM 10B concentration in the tumor. For future BNCT treatments of thyroid cancer, contrary to the 131I used now, there is no post-treatment radioactive decay, the patient can be immediately discharged from hospital, and there is no six-month moratorium for pregnancy. This method can be used for BNCT treatment compounds of the type R-BFn, where 1 <= n <= 3, labeled with 18F relatively easily, as in our example. A patient may undergo injection of a mixture of nonradioactive R-BFn to reach the necessary 10B concentration for BNCT treatment in the tumor together, with [18F]R-BFn for boron mapping.