bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kajian PLTS on-grid pada gedung X Politeknik Negeri Malang untuk melayani beban perkantoran menggunakan perangkat HOMER PRO
Authors: Harijanto Priya Surya , Junus Mochammad
Published: October 2021

Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Surya (PLTS) dapat diaplikasikan mulai skala kecil sampai skala besar, itu merupakan keunggulan teknologi ini. Dalam skala kecil, pemanfaatan energi surya dapat diaplikasikan di setiap atap rumah untuk memenuhi kebutuhan listrik tiap konsumen residential / rumah tangga. Untuk kebutuhan ini, sistem PLTS dilakukan secara on – grid yaitu terhubung dengan jaringan yang sudah tersedia yaitu jaringan penyedia layanan listrik seperti PLN. Pada penelitian ini, objek penelitian adalah Gedung X pada Politeknik Negeri Malang, dimana kebutuhan bebannya sebesar 12,5 kW dan kebutuhan energi harian 64 kWh. Menggunakan aplikasi HOMER PRO didapatkan untuk sistem dengan skema PV, Baterai, Grid PLN, dan konverter, maka Skematik yang diusulkan pada sistem PLTS adalah menggunakan solar panel dengan total daya terpasang sebesar 11 kWp, dan ditambah dengan baterai sebesar 1500 Ah, konverter daya sebesar 6 kW , dan grid PLN tetap sebagai suplai utama. Untuk bisa mengurangi tagihan listrik, dilakukanlah Renewable Fraction (RF) sebesar 58,5 %, sehingga didapatkan produksi harian untuk solar panel sebesar 45,6 kWh, yaitu sebesar 68 % kebutuhan harian dengan capacity factor sebesar 17,3 %. Solar panel yang digunakan merk ICASOLAR dengan kapasitas 250 Wp membutuhkan sebanyak 44 panel dengan total luasan yang diperlukan sebesar 57 m2 pada atap gedung. Secara ekonomis didapatkan bahwa Net Present Cost pada sistem ini adalah sebesar Rp. 183.000.000,- dan nilai Cost of Energy sebesar Rp. 484,58,- / kWh
ABSTRACT
PLTS can be applied from small to large scale, that is the advantage of this technology. On a small scale, the use of solar energy can be applied on every roof of the house to meet the electricity needs of each residential / household consumer. For this need, the PLTS system is carried out on an on-grid basis, which is connected to an already available network, namely a network of electricity service providers such as PLN. In this study, the object of research is Building X at the State Polytechnic of Malang, where the load requirement is 12.5 kW and the daily energy requirement is 64 kWh. Using the HOMER PRO application obtained for systems with PV schemes, Batteries, PLN Grids, and converters, the proposed Schematic for the PLTS system is to use solar panels with a total installed power of 11 kWp, and coupled with a 1500 Ah battery, a power converter of 6 kW , and the PLN grid remains as the main supply. To be able to reduce electricity bills, Renewable Fraction (RF) is carried out by 58.5%, so that the daily production for solar panels is 45.6 kWh, which is 68% of daily needs with a capacity factor of 17.3%. The solar panels used by the ICASOLAR brand with a capacity of 250 Wp require 44 panels with a total required area of 57 m2 on the roof of the building. Economically, it is found that the Net Present Cost in this system is Rp. 183,000,000,- and Cost of Energy amount Rp. 484,58,- / kWh
ИНТЕГРАЦИЯ МЕДИЦИНСКИХ СИСТЕМ: УРОКИ СТЭНФОРДСКОЙ ШКОЛЫ ФИЛОСОФИИ НАУКИ
Authors: Шевченко Сергей Юрьевич
Published: October 2021

В статье обозначены философские и теоретико-методологические вопросы, связанные с интеграцией медицинских систем. Они рассматривается с ориентиром на достижения представителей Стэнфордской школы философии науки. Применяя оптику этого направления, автор приходит к выводу о том, что основным полем интеграции медицинских систем могут служить не сферы признанного и устоявшегося медицинского знания, а его проблемные точки. Возможность интеграции медицинских систем рассматривается через три измерения: трансдисциплинарность, трансакадемизм и трансинституциональность.
ТЕРАПЕВТИЧЕСКИЙ ВЫБОР ХРОНИЧЕСКИХ БОЛЬНЫХ: МОДЕЛИ ПРИНЯТИЯ РЕШЕНИЙ В ЗЕРКАЛЕ CHAID-АНАЛИЗА
Authors: Герасимова Ксения Георгиевна
Published: October 2021

В статье представлены результаты социологического исследования, посвященного изучению влияния различных факторов на логику терапевтического выбора пациентов на различных стадиях развития хронической болезни. Результаты опроса 510 хронических больных являются продолжением масштабного исследования особенностей медицинского выбора, реализуемым социологами Самарского университета. С помощью CHAID-анализа показаны особенности принятия терапевтических решений на этапе дебюта болезни и на стадии ее хроникализации. При ведущей роли финансовой доступности в качестве фактора принятия решений вскрыта роль наличного опыта и знания себя, а также доверия-недоверия медицинскому знанию как таковому и медицинским институциям.
ТЕРАПЕВТИЧЕСКИЙ ПОВОРОТ В СОВРЕМЕННОЙ РОССИЙСКОЙ МАССОВОЙ КУЛЬТУРЕ
Authors: Набокова Алина Алексеевна
Published: October 2021

В статье анализируется дискурс современной культуры чувствования и устанавливается влияние на формирование эмоционального субъекта со стороны терапевтического поворота, медикализации повседневного языка и распространения такого субстрата психологии как ее популярное направление – массмаркетная психология и жанр сэлфхэлп. Анализируя профессиональные аккаунты бумеров в социальных сетях и блоги популярных отечественных инфлуэнсеров из поколения зумеров, автор описывает актуальный язык эмоций современной молодежи в условиях новой культуры чувствования, а также выявляет связь современной массмаркетой психологии с режимом и зарождающимся типом любовных отношений в городских сообществах.
«НЕ УБИВАЙТЕ МОЮ МАМУ!»: ОТНОШЕНИЕ К ПОЖИЛЫМ ЛЮДЯМ ВО ВРЕМЯ ПАНДЕМИИ COVID-19
Authors: Колдман Северина Дановна
Published: October 2021

В статье рассмотрены изменения в отношении к людям старшего поколения (65+) в первые месяцы пандемии COVID-19, вызванные социальным напряжением. Пожилые люди оказались в ситуации личной небезопасности, отрезанные от услуг медицинской помощи, общения с близкими людьми и повседневного обеспечения с их стороны, а также – лишенные возможности самостоятельного приобретения товаров первой необходимости, лекарств и продуктов. Сложившая ситуация выявила недостатки организации здравоохранения и системы социального обеспечения. Также было допущено нарушение трудовых прав работающих людей в возрасте 65+. Обстановка паники в средствах массовой информации стала усугубляющим фактором уязвимости пожилых людей перед преступниками (например, лицо в маске, представляющееся соцработником). Кроме того, принудительная самоизоляция стала причиной ухудшения психологического и физического здоровья населения в целом. Данные обстоятельства проявили негативное отношение к стареющим членам общества не только в России, но и в мире, что в контексте демографической ситуации ставит множество вопросов к социокультурному климату в теме долголетия и активного старения.
МЕДИЦИНСКАЯ АНТРОПОЛОГИЯ НА ПОРОГЕ ТРЕТЬЕГО ДЕСЯТИЛЕТИЯ XXI ВЕКА
Authors: Харитонова Валентина Ивановна
Published: October 2021

Автор рассматривает на основе материалов и дискуссий VIII Международного интердисциплинарного научно-практический симпозиума «Медицинская антропология на пороге третьего десятилетия XXI века: основные итоги, новые идеи и перспективы» важнейшие темы, отраженные в исследованиях современных специалистов, тяготеющих к медицинской антропологии. Этот симпозиум работал во время пандемии. Делается вывод, что ситуация пандемии значительно скорректировала тематику исследований российских медицинских антропологов и их зарубежных коллег. На этапе «первой волны» были представлены преимущественно обзорные доклады. Многие исследования в основном фиксировали происходящее. Однако традиционные для медицинской антропологии темы также нашли свое отражение в работах многих специалистов.
Identifying a Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Biochemical Recurrence of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lv Zhengtong , Wang Jianlong , Wang Xuan , Mo Miao , Tang Guyu , Xu Haozhe , Wang Jianye , Li Yuan , Liu Ming
Published: October 2021

Ferroptosis induced by lipid peroxidation is closely related to cancer biology. Prostate cancer (PCa) is not only a malignant tumor but also a lipid metabolic disease. Previous studies have identified ferroptosis as an important pathophysiological pathway in PCa development and treatment, but its role in the prognosis of PCa is less well known. In this study, we constructed a nine-ferroptosis-related gene risk model that demonstrated strong prognostic and therapeutic predictive power. The higher risk score calculated by the model was significantly associated with a higher ferroptosis potential index, higher Ki67 expression, higher immune infiltration, higher probability of biochemical recurrence, worse clinicopathological characteristics, and worse response to chemotherapy and antiandrogen therapy in PCa. The mechanisms identified by the gene set enrichment analysis suggested that this signature can accurately distinguish high- and low-risk populations, which is possibly closely related to variations in steroid hormone secretion, regulation of endocrine processes, positive regulation of humoral immune response, and androgen response. Results of this study were confirmed in two independent PCa cohorts, namely, The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort and the MSK-IMPACT Clinical Sequencing Cohort, which contributed to the body of scientific evidence for the prediction of biochemical recurrence in patients with PCa. In addition, as the main components of this signature, the effects of the AIFM2 and NFS1 genes on ferroptosis were evaluated and verified by in vivo and in vitro experiments, respectively. The above findings provided new insights and presented potential clinical applications of ferroptosis in PCa.
Physical and Electrochemical Properties of Soluble 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT)-Based Copolymers Synthesized via Direct (Hetero)Arylation Polymerization
Authors: Guo Qiang , Zhang Jincheng , Li Xiaoyu , Gong Heqi , Wu Shuanghong , Li Jie
Published: October 2021

Over the past decades, π-conjugated polymers (CPs) have drawn more and more attention and been essential materials for applications in various organic electronic devices. Thereinto, conjugated polymers based on the 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) backbone are among the high-performance materials. In order to investigate the structure–property relationships of EDOT-based polymers and further improve their electrochemical properties, a series of organic solvent–soluble EDOT-based alternative copolymers consisting of electron-rich fragments (fluorene P1, carbazole P2, and 3,4-alkoxythiophene P3) or electron-deficient moieties (benzotriazole P4 and thieno[3,4-c]pyrrole-4,6-dione P5) were synthesized via direct C–H (hetero)arylation polymerization (DHAP) in moderate to excellent yields (60–98%) with medium to high molecular weights (Mn = 3,100–94,000 Da). Owing to their various electronic and structural properties, different absorption spectra (λmax = 476, 380, 558, 563, and 603 nm) as well as different specific capacitances of 70, 68, 75, 51, and 25 F/g with 19, 10, 21, 26, and 69% of capacity retention after 1,000 cycles were observed for P1–P5, respectively. After careful study through multiple experimental measurements and theoretical calculation, appropriate electronic characteristics, small molecular conformation differences between different oxidative states, and well-ordered molecular stacking could improve the electrochemical performance of CPs.
Controls on Terrigenous Detritus Deposition and Oceanography Changes in the Central Okhotsk Sea Over the Past 1550 ka
Authors: Chou Yu-Min , Jiang Xiaodong , Lo Li , Wang Liang-Chi , Lee Teh-Quei , Wang Chun-Chieh , Pan Yongxin , Zou Jianjun , Humbert Fabien , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: October 2021

The Okhotsk Sea, which connects the high latitude Asian continent and the North Pacific, plays an important role in modern and past climate changes due to seasonal sea ice coverage and as a precursor of the North Pacific Intermediate Water. The long-term glacial-interglacial changes of sea ice coverage and its impacts on terrigenous transport and surface primary productivity in the Okhotsk Sea remain, however, not well constrained. Base on the paleomagnetic, rock magnetic, micropaleontological (diatom), and geochemical studies of the marine sediment core MD01-2414 (53°11.77′N, 149°34.80′E, water depth: 1,123 m) taken in the central Okhotsk Sea, we reconstruct the terrigenous sediment transport and paleoceanographic variations during the past 1550 thousand years (kyr). Seventeen geomagnetic excursions are identified from the paleomagnetic directional record. Close to the bottom of the core, an excursion was observed, which is proposed to be the Gilsa event ∼1550 thousand years ago (ka). During glacial intervals, our records reveal a wide extension of sea ice coverage and low marine productivity. We observed ice-rafted debris from mountain icebergs composed of coarse and high magnetic terrigenous detritus which were derived from the Kamchatka Peninsula to the central Okhotsk basin. Still during glacial intervals, the initiation (i.e., at ∼900 ka) of the Mid-Pleistocene Transition marks the changes to even lower marine productivity, suggesting that sea-ice coverage became larger during the last 900 ka. During interglacial intervals, the central Okhotsk Sea was either devoid of sea-ice or the ice was at best seasonal; resulting in high marine productivity. The weaker formation of Okhotsk Sea Intermediate Water, lower ventilation, and microbial degradation of organic matter depleted the oxygen concentration in the bottom water and created a reduced environment condition in the sea basin. The freshwater supplied by snow or glacier melting from Siberia and Kamchatka delivered fine grain sediments to the Okhotsk Sea. During the stronger interglacial intervals after the Mid-Brunhes Transition (i.e., Marine Isotope Stages 1, 5e, 9, and 11), strong freshwater discharges from Amur River drainage area are in association with intensified East Asian Summer Monsoon. This process may have enhanced the input of fine-grained terrigenous sediments to the central Okhotsk Sea.
The Dynamic Hypercube as a Niche Community Model
Authors: Halley John M. , Pimm Stuart L.
Published: October 2021

Different models of community dynamics, such as the MacArthur–Wilson theory of island biogeography and Hubbell’s neutral theory, have given us useful insights into the workings of ecological communities. Here, we develop the niche-hypervolume concept of the community into a powerful model of community dynamics. We describe the community’s size through the volume of the hypercube and the dynamics of the populations in it through the fluctuations of the axes of the niche hypercube on different timescales. While the community’s size remains constant, the relative volumes of the niches within it change continuously, thus allowing the populations of different species to rise and fall in a zero-sum fashion. This dynamic hypercube model reproduces several key patterns in communities: lognormal species abundance distributions, 1/f-noise population abundance, multiscale patterns of extinction debt and logarithmic species-time curves. It also provides a powerful framework to explore significant ideas in ecology, such as the drift of ecological communities into evolutionary time.
A Mosaic Mutation in the LAMA2 Gene in a Case of Merosin-deficient Congenital Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Chausova P. A. , Ryzhkova O. P. , Rudenskaya G. E. , Chernykh V. B. , Shchagina O. A. , Polyakov A. V.
Published: October 2021

Merosine deficient congenital muscular dystrophy is one of the most common forms of congenital muscular dystrophy. This disease is caused by a primary deficiency or a functionally inactive form of the protein merosin in muscle tissue. The type of inheritance of this disease is autosomal recessive. De novo variants with this type of inheritance are rare, and it is quite possible that the de novo variant may hide a mosaic form in the parent of an affected child. We present a birth family with two affected children who inherited a previously undescribed pathogenic variant c.1755del from their mother and a previously described pathogenic variant c.9253C > T in the LAMA2 gene from their mosaic father. LAMA2 gene mutation analysis was performed by mass parallel sequencing and direct sequencing of genomic DNAs.
Case Report: A Novel CACNA1S Mutation Associated With Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis in a Chinese Family
Authors: Jin Jie-Yuan , Guo Bing-Bing , Dong Yi , Sheng Yue , Fan Liang-Liang , Zhang Li-Bing
Published: October 2021

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by episodic flaccid paralysis with concomitant hypokalemia. More than half of patients were associated with mutations in CACNA1S that encodes the alpha-1-subunit of the skeletal muscle L-type voltage-dependent calcium channel. Mutations in CACNA1S may alter the structure of CACNA1S and affect the functions of calcium channels, which damages Ca2+-mediated excitation-contraction coupling. In this research, we identified and described a Chinese HypoPP patient with a novel frameshift mutation in CACNA1S [NM_000069.2: c.1364delA (p.Asn455fs)] by targeted sequencing. This study would expand the spectrum of CACNA1S mutations, further our understanding of HypoPP, and provided a new perspective for selecting effective treatments.
Comprehensive Molecular and Cellular Characterization of Acute Kidney Injury Progression to Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Wu Renyan , Li Jiawei , Tu Guowei , Su Ying , Zhang Xuepeng , Luo Zhe , Rong Ruiming , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) represent different stages of renal failure; thus, CKD can be regarded as a result of AKI deterioration. Previous studies have demonstrated that immune cell infiltration, oxidative stress, and metabolic mentalism can support renal fibrosis progression in AKI cases. However, the most important triggers and cell types involved in this pathological progression remain unclear. This study was conducted to shed light into the underlying cellular and molecular features of renal fibrosis progression through the analysis of three mouse whole kidney and one human single-cell RNA-sequencing datasets publicly available. According to the different causes of AKI (ischemia reperfusion injury [IRI] or cisplatin), the mouse samples were divided into the CIU [control-IRI-unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)] and CCU (control-cisplatin-UUO) groups. Comparisons between groups revealed eight different modules of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 1,214 genes showed the same expression pattern in both CIU and CCU groups; however, 1,816 and 1,308 genes were expressed specifically in the CCU and CIU groups, respectively. Further assessment of the DEGs according to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) showed that T-cell activation, fatty acid metabolic process, and arachidonic acid metabolism were involved in the fibrosis progression in CIU and CCU. Single-cell RNA-sequencing data along with the collected DEGs information also revealed that the T-cell activation mainly happened in immune cells, whereas the fatty acid metabolic process and arachidonic acid metabolism occurred in tubule cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that the fibrosis process differed between the CIU and CCU stages, in which immune and tubule cells have different functions. These identified cellular and molecular features of the different stages of fibrosis progression may pave the way for exploring novel potential therapeutic strategies in the clinic.
Host and Bacterial Iron Homeostasis, an Underexplored Area in Tuberculosis Biomarker Research
Authors: Baatjies Lucinda , Loxton Andre G. , Williams Monique J.
Published: October 2021

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) “a human adapted pathogen” has found multiple ways to manipulate the host immune response during infection. The human immune response to Mtb infection is a highly complex cascade of reactions, with macrophages as preferred intracellular location. Interaction with the host through infection gives rise to expression of specific gene products for survival and multiplication within the host. The signals that the pathogens encounter during infection cause them to selectively express genes in response to signals. One strategy to identify Mtb antigens with diagnostic potential is to identify genes that are specifically induced during infection or in specific disease stages. The shortcomings of current immunodiagnostics include the failure to detect progression from latent infection to active tuberculosis disease, and the inability to monitor treatment efficacy. This highlights the need for new tuberculosis biomarkers. These biomarkers should be highly sensitive and specific diagnosing TB infection, specifically distinguishing between latent infection and active disease. The regulation of iron levels by the host plays a crucial role in the susceptibility and outcome of Mtb infection. Of interest are the siderophore biosynthetic genes, encoded by the mbt-1 and mbt-2 loci and the SUF (mobilization of sulphur) operon (sufR-sufB-sufD-sufC-csd-nifU-sufT), which encodes the primary iron-sulphur cluster biogenesis system. These genes are induced during iron limitation and intracellular growth of Mtb, pointing to their importance during infection.
Classifying 3-D Models of Coral Reefs Using Structure-From-Motion and Multi-View Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Pierce Jordan , Butler Mark J. , Rzhanov Yuri , Lowell Kim , Dijkstra Jennifer A.
Published: October 2021

Benthic quadrat surveys using 2-D images are one of the most common methods of quantifying the composition of coral reef communities, but they and other methods fail to assess changes in species composition as a 3-dimensional system, arguably one of the most important attributes in foundational systems. Structure-from-motion (SfM) algorithms that utilize images collected from various viewpoints to form an accurate 3-D model have become more common among ecologists in recent years. However, there exist few efficient methods that can classify portions of the 3-D model to specific ecological functional groups. This lack of granularity makes it more difficult to identify the class category responsible for changes in the structure of coral reef communities. We present a novel method that can efficiently provide semantic labels of functional groups to 3-D reconstructed models created from commonly used SfM software (i.e., Agisoft Metashape) using fully convolutional networks (FCNs). Unlike other methods, ours involves creating dense labels for each of the images used in the 3-D reconstruction and then reusing the projection matrices created during the SfM process to project semantic labels onto either the point cloud or mesh to create fully classified versions. When quantitatively validating the classification results we found that this method is capable of accurately projecting semantic labels from image-space to model-space with scores as high as 91% pixel accuracy. Furthermore, because each image only needs to be provided with a single set of dense labels this method scales linearly making it useful for large areas or high resolution-models. Although SfM has become widely adopted by ecologists, deep learning presents a steep learning curve for many. To ensure repeatability and ease-of-use, we provide a comprehensive workflow with detailed instructions and open-sourced the programming code to assist others in replicating our methodology. Our method will allow researchers to assess precise changes in 3-D community composition of reef habitats in an entirely novel way, providing more insight into changes in ecological paradigms, such as those that occur during coral-algae shifts.
Extraction of Fish Bones Embedded in the Esophagus via Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Lu Dan , Lv Lu , Gu Qing , Jain Ajay , Berglund Björn , Ji Feng
Published: October 2021

Foreign body ingestion is a common problem encountered at gastroenterology clinics and emergency rooms which can cause serious complications. Usually, foreign bodies are directly visible with flexible endoscopes and can be readily removed. However, when foreign bodies migrate into the deeper tissue of the esophagus, surgery is typically required. There is currently no consensus regarding the best treatment. In this report, we present two cases in which fish bones embedded in the submucosal and muscularis propria of the esophagus were successfully removed via endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Both patients were discharged without any complications.
Kidney Involvement in PSTPIP1 Associated Inflammatory Diseases (PAID): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Borgia Paola , Papa Riccardo , D'Alessandro Matteo , Caorsi Roberta , Piaggio Giorgio , Angeletti Andrea , Ceccherini Isabella , Ghiggeri Gian Marco , Gattorno Marco
Published: October 2021

Pyogenic arthritis, pyoderma gangrenosum and acne (PAPA) syndrome, and the proline-serine-threonine phosphatase-interacting protein 1 (PSTPIP1)-associated myeloid-related proteinemia inflammatory (PAMI) syndrome are two distinct clinical conditions caused by heterozygous mutations of the PSTPIP1 gene. While skin and joint involvements are shared by both conditions, PAMI is characterized by hepatosplenomegaly, pancytopenia, and growth failure. Kidney involvement is exceptional in PSTPIP1-mediated disorders. The two missense PSTPIP1 variants associated with PAMI syndrome are p.E250K and p.E257K. Long-term treatment with interleukin (IL)-1 inhibitors is effective to control inflammatory manifestations and is usually well-tolerated. We report a case of a patient carrying the PSTPIP1 p.E250K mutation who developed a late-onset kidney involvement despite a long treatment with canakinumab and anakinra. Kidney biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis that was treated with tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg/day in two doses). A literature revision with the aim to assess the proportion and type of kidney involvement in PAMI syndrome revealed that heterogeneous nephropathies may be part of the clinical spectrum. Our study supports the importance of a periodic diagnostic work-up, including kidney laboratory tests and kidney biopsy, in individuals affected with PAMI syndrome. Kidney and liver functions may be impaired regardless of anti-cytokines treatments and additional therapy approaches (i.e., multi-drugs, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) should be carefully considered.
Soluble, Colloidal, and Particulate Iron Across the Hydrothermal Vent Mixing Zones in Broken Spur and Rainbow, Mid-Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Yücel Mustafa , Sevgen Serhat , Le Bris Nadine
Published: October 2021

The slow-spreading Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) forms geological heterogeneity throughout the ridge system by deep crustal faults and their resultant tectonic valleys, which results in the existence of different types of hydrothermal vent fields. Therefore, investigating MAR hydrothermal systems opens a gate to understanding the concentration ranges of ecosystem-limiting metals emanating from compositionally distinct fluids for both near-field chemosynthetic ecosystems and far-field transport into the ocean interiors. Here, we present novel data regarding onboard measured, size-fractionated soluble, colloidal, and particulate iron concentrations from the 2018 R/V L’Atalante – ROV Victor research expedition, during which samples were taken from the mixing zone of black smokers using a ROV-assisted plume sampling. Iron size fractionation (<20, 20–200, and >200nm) data were obtained from onboard sequential filtering, followed by measurement via ferrozine assay and spectrophotometric detection at 562nm. Our results showed the persistent presence of a nanoparticulate/colloidal phase (retained within 20–200nm filtrates) even in high-temperature samples. A significant fraction of this phase was retrievable only under treatment with HNO3 – a strong acid known to attack and dissolve pyrite nanocrystals. Upon mixing with colder bottom waters and removal of iron in the higher parts of the buoyant plume, the larger size fractions became dominant as the total iron levels decreased, but it was still possible to detect significant (micromolar) levels of nanoparticulate Fe even in samples collected 5m above the orifice in the rising plume. The coolest sample (<10°C) still contained more than 1μM of only nitric acid-leachable nanoparticle/colloidal, at least 200 times higher than a typical Fe concentration in the non-buoyant plume. Our results support previous reports of dissolved Fe in MAR vent plumes, and we propose that this recalcitrant Fe pool – surviving immediate precipitation – contributes to maintaining high hydrothermal iron fluxes to the deep ocean.
Beyond Archaea: The Table Salt Bacteriome
Authors: Satari Leila , Guillén Alba , Latorre-Pérez Adriel , Porcar Manuel
Published: October 2021

Commercial table salt is a condiment with food preservative properties by decreasing water activity and increasing osmotic pressure. Salt is also a source of halophilic bacteria and archaea. In the present research, the diversity of halotolerant and halophilic microorganisms was studied in six commercial table salts by culture-dependent and culture-independent techniques. Three table salts were obtained from marine origins: Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean (Ibiza Island), and Odiel marshes (supermarket marine salt). Other salts supplemented with mineral and nutritional ingredients were also used: Himalayan pink, Hawaiian black, and one with dried vegetables known as Viking salt. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing reveal that the salts from marine origins display a similar archaeal taxonomy, but with significant variations among genera. Archaeal taxa Halorubrum, Halobacterium, Hallobellus, Natronomonas, Haloplanus, Halonotius, Halomarina, and Haloarcula were prevalent in those three marine salts. Furthermore, the most abundant archaeal genera present in all salts were Natronomonas, Halolamina, Halonotius, Halapricum, Halobacterium, Haloarcula, and uncultured Halobacterales. Sulfitobacter sp. was the most frequent bacteria, represented almost in all salts. Other genera such as Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Flavobacterium were the most frequent taxa in the Viking, Himalayan pink, and black salts, respectively. Interestingly, the genus Salinibacter was detected only in marine-originated salts. A collection of 76 halotolerant and halophilic bacterial and haloarchaeal species was set by culturing on different media with a broad range of salinity and nutrient composition. Comparing the results of 16S rRNA gene metataxonomic and culturomics revealed that culturable bacteria Acinetobacter, Aquibacillus, Bacillus, Brevundimonas, Fictibacillus, Gracilibacillus, Halobacillus, Micrococcus, Oceanobacillus, Salibacterium, Salinibacter, Terribacillus, Thalassobacillus, and also Archaea Haloarcula, Halobacterium, and Halorubrum were identified at least in one sample by both methods. Our results show that salts from marine origins are dominated by Archaea, whereas salts from other sources or salt supplemented with ingredients are dominated by bacteria.
Humic Substances in Combination With Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria as an Alternative for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: da Silva Maura Santos Reis de Andrade , dos Santos Bianca de Melo Silveira , da Silva Camilla Santos Reis de Andrade , da Silva Carolina Santos Reis de Andrade , Antunes Luiz Fernando de Sousa , dos Santos Roberta Mendes , Santos Carlos Henrique Barbosa , Rigobelo Everlon Cid
Published: October 2021

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and humic substances (HSs) are promising options for reducing the use of pesticides and mineral fertilizers. Although many studies have shown the effects of PGPB and HSs separately, little information is available on plant responses to the combined application of these biostimulants despite the great potential for the simultaneous action of these biological inputs. Thus, the objective of this review is to present an overview of scientific studies that addressed the application of PGPB and HSs to different crops. First, we discuss the effect of these biostimulants on biological nitrogen fixation, the various effects of the inoculation of beneficial bacteria combined with the application of HSs on promoting the growth of nonleguminous plants and how this combination can increase bacterial colonization of plant hosts. We also address the effect of PGPB and HSs on plant responses to abiotic stresses, in addition to discussing the role of HSs in protecting plants against pathogens. There is a lack of studies that address the role of PGPB + HSs in biocontrol. Understanding the factors involved in the promotion of plant growth through the application of PGPB and HSs can assist in the development of efficient biostimulants for agricultural management. This approach has the potential to accelerate the transition from conventional cultivation to sustainable agrosystems.
Development and Validation of Ribosomal RNA-Targeted Reverse Transcription Real-Time PCR Assays for the Sensitive and Rapid Diagnostics of High Consequence Pathogens
Authors: Merold Veronika , Silberreis Kim , Stoecker Kilian
Published: October 2021

Real-time PCR (rtPCR) has become an essential tool in clinical microbiology and has been used for the acute diagnostics of many pathogens. Key performance indicators of rtPCR assays are their specificity as well as their analytical and clinical sensitivity. One way to maximize the sensitivity of such diagnostic rtPCRs is the use of genomic targets, which are present in several copies in the target cells. Here, we use the naturally pre-amplified ribosomal RNA as target for specific and highly sensitive reverse-transcription rtPCR detection of two high consequence pathogens, Yersinia pestis and Francisella tularensis. We determined their analytical sensitivity and illustrate that the newly designed assays are superior compared with other previous published rtPCR assays. Furthermore, we used spiked clinical sample matrices to evaluate their clinical applicability. Finally, we demonstrate that these assays can be applied on heat-inactivated samples without the need of time-consuming nucleic acid extraction.
Species-Level Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Cyanobacteria in a Hard-Water Temperate Lake in the Southern Baltics
Authors: Nwosu Ebuka Canisius , Roeser Patricia , Yang Sizhong , Pinkerneil Sylvia , Ganzert Lars , Dittmann Elke , Brauer Achim , Wagner Dirk , Liebner Susanne
Published: October 2021

Cyanobacteria are important primary producers in temperate freshwater ecosystems. However, studies on the seasonal and spatial distribution of cyanobacteria in deep lakes based on high-throughput DNA sequencing are still rare. In this study, we combined monthly water sampling and monitoring in 2019, amplicon sequence variants analysis (ASVs; a proxy for different species) and quantitative PCR targeting overall cyanobacteria abundance to describe the seasonal and spatial dynamics of cyanobacteria in the deep hard-water oligo-mesotrophic Lake Tiefer See, NE Germany. We observed significant seasonal variation in the cyanobacterial community composition (p < 0.05) in the epi- and metalimnion layers, but not in the hypolimnion. In winter—when the water column is mixed—picocyanobacteria (Synechococcus and Cyanobium) were dominant. With the onset of stratification in late spring, we observed potential niche specialization and coexistence among the cyanobacteria taxa driven mainly by light and nutrient dynamics. Specifically, ASVs assigned to picocyanobacteria and the genus Planktothrix were the main contributors to the formation of deep chlorophyll maxima along a light gradient. While Synechococcus and different Cyanobium ASVs were abundant in the epilimnion up to the base of the euphotic zone from spring to fall, Planktothrix mainly occurred in the metalimnetic layer below the euphotic zone where also overall cyanobacteria abundance was highest in summer. Our data revealed two potentially psychrotolerant (cold-adapted) Cyanobium species that appear to cope well under conditions of lower hypolimnetic water temperature and light as well as increasing sediment-released phosphate in the deeper waters in summer. The potential cold-adapted Cyanobium species were also dominant throughout the water column in fall and winter. Furthermore, Snowella and Microcystis-related ASVs were abundant in the water column during the onset of fall turnover. Altogether, these findings suggest previously unascertained and considerable spatiotemporal changes in the community of cyanobacteria on the species level especially within the genus Cyanobium in deep hard-water temperate lakes.
Different Drugs for the Treatment of Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jingxuan Lian , Litian Ma , Jianfang Fu
Published: October 2021

Objective: To systematically evaluate the effects of different drugs for the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Methods: All literature from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials published over the past 12 years (from January 1, 2008 to June 1, 2020) was searched, and two reviewers independently assessed study eligibility, continuous data extraction, independent assessment of bias risk, and graded strength of evidence. The pain score was used as the main result, and 30 and 50% pain reduction and adverse events were used as secondary results.

Results: A total of 37 studies were included. Pregabalin, duloxetine, tapentadol, lacosamide, mirogabalin, and capsaicin were all more effective than placebo in alleviating the pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, while ABT-894 and gabapentin showed no significant effect. In addition, the efficacy of buprenorphine, tanezumab, fulranumab and others could not be concluded due to insufficient studies.

Conclusion: Pregabalin and duloxetine showed good therapeutic effects on painful DPN, but adverse events were also significant. The analgesic effects of ABT-894 and gabapentin need to be further studied with longer and larger RCTs. As an opioid drug, tapentadol has a good analgesic effect, but due to its addiction, it needs to be very cautious in clinical use. Although lacosamide, mirogabalin, and capsaicin are more effective than placebo, the therapeutic effect is weaker than pregabalin. For the results of our meta-analysis, long-term studies are still needed to verify their efficacy and safety in the future.

Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42020197397.
Contribution of Various Types of Transfusion to Acute and Delayed Intracerebral Hemorrhage Injury
Authors: Kumar Siddharth , Andoniadis Matthew , Solhpour Ali , Asghar Salman , Fangman Madison , Ashouri Rani , Doré Sylvain
Published: October 2021

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the second most prevalent type of stroke, after ischemic stroke, and has exceptionally high morbidity and mortality rates. After spontaneous ICH, one primary goal is to restrict hematoma expansion, and the second is to limit brain edema and secondary injury. Various types of transfusion therapies have been studied as treatment options to alleviate the adverse effects of ICH etiopathology. The objective of this work is to review transfusions with platelets, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), and red blood cells (RBCs) in patients with ICH. Furthermore, tranexamic acid infusion studies have been included due to its connection to ICH and hematoma expansion. As stated, the first line of therapy is limiting bleeding in the brain and hematoma expansion. Platelet transfusion is used to promote recovery and mitigate brain damage, notably in patients with severe thrombocytopenia. Additionally, tranexamic acid infusion, FFP, and PCC transfusion have been shown to affect hematoma expansion rate and volume. Although there is limited available research, RBC transfusions have been shown to cause higher tissue oxygenation and lower mortality, notably after brain edema, increases in intracranial pressure, and hypoxia. However, these types of transfusion have varied results depending on the patient, hemostasis status/blood thinner, hemolysis, anemia, and complications, among other variables. Inconsistencies in published results on various transfusion therapies led us to review the data and discuss issues that need to be considered when establishing future guidelines for patients with ICH.
Case Report: Persisting Lymphopenia During Neuropsychiatric Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis Rebound Upon Fingolimod Withdrawal
Authors: Koska Valeria , Förster Moritz , Brouzou Katja , Arat Ercan , Albrecht Philipp , Aktas Orhan , Küry Patrick , Meuth Sven G. , Kremer David
Published: October 2021

Fingolimod (FTY) is a disease modifying therapy for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) which can lead to severe lymphopenia requiring therapy discontinuation in order to avoid adverse events. However, this can result in severe disease reactivation occasionally presenting with tumefactive demyelinating lesions (TDLs). TDLs, which are thought to originate from a massive re-entry of activated lymphocytes into the central nervous system, are larger than 2 cm in diameter and may feature mass effect, perifocal edema, and gadolinium enhancement. In these cases, it can be challenging to exclude important differential diagnoses for TDLs such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) or other opportunistic infections. Here, we present the case of a 26-year-old female patient who suffered a massive rebound with TDLs following FTY discontinuation with primarily neuropsychiatric symptoms despite persisting lymphopenia. Two cycles of seven plasmaphereses each were necessary to achieve remission and ocrelizumab was used for long-term stabilization.
Viral Causality of Human Cancer and Potential Roles of Human Endogenous Retroviruses in the Multi-Omics Era: An Evolutionary Epidemiology Review
Authors: Kitsou Konstantina , Iliopoulou Maria , Spoulou Vana , Lagiou Pagona , Magiorkinis Gkikas
Published: October 2021

Being responsible for almost 12% of cancers worldwide, viruses are among the oldest known and most prevalent oncogenic agents. The quality of the evidence for the in vivo tumorigenic potential of microorganisms varies, thus accordingly, viruses were classified in 4 evidence-based categories by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2009. Since then, our understanding of the role of viruses in cancer has significantly improved, firstly due to the emergence of high throughput sequencing technologies that allowed the “brute-force” recovery of unknown viral genomes. At the same time, multi-omics approaches unravelled novel virus-host interactions in stem-cell biology. We now know that viral elements, either exogenous or endogenous, have multiple sometimes conflicting roles in human pathophysiology and the development of cancer. Here we integrate emerging evidence on viral causality in human cancer from basic mechanisms to clinical studies. We analyze viral tumorigenesis under the scope of deep-in-time human-virus evolutionary relationships and critically comment on the evidence through the eyes of clinical epidemiology, firstly by reviewing recognized oncoviruses and their mechanisms of inducing tumorigenesis, and then by examining the potential role of integrated viruses in our genome in the process of carcinogenesis.
Association of Soluble B7-H4 and Circulating Tumor Cells in Blood of Advanced Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients
Authors: Mach Pawel , Kimmig Rainer , Kasimir-Bauer Sabine , Buderath Paul
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the deadliest gynecologic malignancy worldwide. Reliable predictive biomarkers are urgently needed to estimate the risk of relapse and to improve treatment management. Soluble immune-checkpoints in EOC are promising molecules serving as prognostic biomarkers accessible via liquid biopsy. We thus, aimed at elucidating the role of sB7-H4 in EOC.

Material and Methods

We analyzed soluble serum B7-H4 (sB7-H4) using ELISA and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood applying the AdnaTest OvarianCancer in 85 patients suffering from advanced EOC. Findings were correlated with clinical parameters as well as survival data.

Results

sB7-H4 was detectable in 14.1% patients, CTCs in 32.9% patients and simultaneous presence of CTCs and sB7-H4 was found in 7% patients, respectively. Although no association between sB7-H4 and CTC could be documented, each of them served as independent predictive factors for overall survival (OS).

Conclusion

sB7-H4 and CTCs are independent prognostic biomarkers for impaired survival in EOC. As they are easily accessible via liquid biopsy, they may be of potential benefit for the prediction of therapy response and survival for EOC patients.
Recent Progress in Interferon Therapy for Myeloid Malignancies
Authors: Healy Fiona M. , Dahal Lekh N. , Jones Jack R.E. , Floisand Yngvar , Woolley John F.
Published: October 2021

Myeloid malignancies are a heterogeneous group of clonal haematopoietic disorders, caused by abnormalities in haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and myeloid progenitor cells that originate in the bone marrow niche. Each of these disorders are unique and present their own challenges with regards to treatment. Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is considered the most aggressive myeloid malignancy, only potentially curable with intensive cytotoxic chemotherapy with or without allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In comparison, patients diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have a high rate of long-term survival. However, drug resistance and relapse are major issues in both these diseases. A growing body of evidence suggests that Interferons (IFNs) may be a useful therapy for myeloid malignancies, particularly in circumstances where patients are resistant to existing front-line therapies and have risk of relapse following haematopoietic stem cell transplant. IFNs are a major class of cytokines which are known to play an integral role in the non-specific immune response. IFN therapy has potential as a combination therapy in AML patients to reduce the impact of minimal residual disease on relapse. Alongside this, IFNs can potentially sensitize leukaemic cells to TKIs in resistant CML patients. There is evidence also that IFNs have a therapeutic role in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) such as polycythaemia vera (PV) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), where they can restore polyclonality in patients. Novel formulations have improved the clinical effectiveness of IFNs. Low dose pegylated IFN formulations improve pharmacokinetics and improve patient tolerance to therapies, thereby minimizing the risk of haematological toxicities. Herein, we will discuss recent developments and the current understanding of the molecular and clinical implications of Type I IFNs for the treatment of myeloid malignancies.