bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of brown spot and leaf blight in rice with the You Only Look Once (YOLO) algorithm
Authors: Teuku Rifki Dhulul Fata  , Siregar Riki Ruli A. , Indrianto
Published: April 2023

Rice is a plant that produces rice as the staple food for almost all Indonesians. Rice plays a vital role in the food chain in Indonesia. However, many types of diseases on rice leaves attack and inhibit the growth of rice in Indonesian rice fields. Among them are brown spots and leaf blight. So far, the classification of diseases on rice leaves is only based on the experience of farmers. This results in uncertainty and diagnostic inaccuracy in classifying various diseases on rice plants. In this case, a method is needed to solve the problem. The method used in this research is digital imagery by processing images of diseases on the leaves of rice plants using the YOLO (You Only Look Once) algorithm. YOLO uses a single Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for object classification and localization using Bounding Box. This research aims to provide options to users in determining the diagnosis of leaf spots and blight diseases on the leaves of rice plants. The average Precision (mAP) evaluation result is 69%, indicating that this method is suitable for detecting diseases on rice leaves.
Task-Supported EFL Instruction: Integrating Students, Teacher, and Textbook Roles in a Japanese Mainstream High School Class
Authors: Santos Alvin Ibe
Published: April 2023

Today in Japan, the impetus to effect positive change on students’ use of English as a communication tool is reflected in the thrust of the Ministry of Education to promote meaningful in-class practice as highlighted in the revised high school foreign language curriculum.  However, teachers face a dilemma of implementing meaningful classroom practice of English entirely without any focus on grammar or form.  Fortunately, an approach which may offer a balanced opportunity to create meaningful practice while highlighting the target expression in use is Task-supported language teaching (TSLT).  To better understand TSLT’s usefulness in an EFL setting, this classroom-based research explores the potential roles that students, the teacher, and the textbook play in a sociocultural approach-oriented EFL class employing TLST and how it complements a Japanese mainstream high school class. Utilizing mixed methods of sociocultural discourse analysis and self-reporting of Grade 11 (n=117) mainstream EFL learners, results indicate that: the students, talking in pairs using their L1, (1) understood difficult vocabulary, (2) managed assigned tasks, and (3) engaged in off-task dialogue; the teacher performed the roles of (1) classroom manager, (2) communicator of content, and (3) assessor and provider of feedback; and the textbook played (1) informative, (2) instructional, and (3) experiential roles in the classroom. It was also found that TLST complements a Japanese high school mainstream EFL class by (1) optimizing the limited time offered in class for students to tackle the TL; (2) aiding students in their standardized institutional exams; and (3) appealing to Japanese cultural sensibilities.
Filling Information Gap on Covid-19 Pandemic Using Proverbs and Figurative Language: Lilaphalapha Facebook Page Lesotho
Authors: Mokala Ntsoaki Teresa , Matee Lihotetso Gloria , Khetoa Soyiso Godsave
Published: April 2023

The current study reports on ways in which Lilaphalapha page on Facebook used language to provide awareness on Corona virus pandemic. Corona Virus affected the whole universe in different ways. Like the rest of the world, to curb the spread of the virus, Lesotho declared a state of emergency and the government put different health protocols in place. To prevent the widespread of COVID-19, a wealth of knowledge was provided in Indo-European languages in many countries. Speakers of African languages such as Sesotho, a national language of Lesotho, had to be innovative and employ region specific methodologies to spread awareness about COVID-19 pandemic.  In this qualitative research, data was collected from eight purposely selected episodes posted on Lilaphalapha page on Facebook in April 2020. The videos were analysed through inductive thematic analysis approach. The paper analysed how the use of proverbs and figurative language has helped in preserving Sesotho as a language and filled the gap in preventing language dearth particularly in the advent of COVID-19 pandemic. The findings indicated figurative language, humour and proverbs were used in spreading COVID-19 awareness to Basotho.
Evaluating the Quality of a Teacher’s Made Test against Five Principles of Language Assessment
Authors: Sumarsono Dedi , Arrafii Moh. Arsyad , Imansyah Imansyah
Published: April 2023

Classroom assessment serves both summative and formative functions to gauge evidence, evaluate and improve student learning. Assessment evidence is only meaningful when it reflects the true picture of student learning. In this sense, the role of effective assessment instrument, such as test, as crucial to obtain a valid and reliable evidence of student learning. However, we remain in caution about the ability of teachers in designing and developing assessment instruments which are underpinned by a sound theoretical understanding of language assessment principles.This research is set out to evaluate classroom-based assessment instrument (e.g., language test) against five principles of language assessment. To achieve the intended purposes, the research adopts an evaluative research approach by which assessment instrument developed by a teacher was evaluated and rated against the principles. Documentation was used as a method to collect data by which language tests developed by teachers were collected in person. The teachers’ made testscollected in this study were analysed deductively based on five principles of language assessment. The study indicates that the teacher-made test was in general meet all aspects ofthe principles. However, some aspects within principles are not adequately addressed. Some principal suggestions are provided.
The Use of Euphemisms in the Book of “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
Authors: Tarigan Smirna Br , Marpaung Marlin Steffi
Published: April 2023

Euphemisms are a linguistic phenomenon whereby milder or courteous words are substituted for blunt or unpleasant expressions. This study focuses on the use of euphemisms and related expressions in Paulo Coelho's book, "The Alchemist." Specifically, the research aims to identify the various euphemistic devices employed, ascertain the prevalence of such devices, and explicate their significance within the context of the novel. A descriptive qualitative research design was employed, which involved an in-depth and detailed exploration and analysis of the phenomena under investigation. To obtain the necessary data, a comprehensive review of relevant literature and library resources was conducted. The results revealed that Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" contains several euphemisms that serve to enhance the overall tone and mood of the narrative. The study further identified four distinct types of euphemisms in the novel, namely euphemisms used to soften descriptions of physical attributes, mental states, skills, etc., euphemisms used to make disagreeable situations more palatable, euphemisms used in business contexts, and euphemisms used in other contexts. Of these categories, the most common type, accounting for 44.5% of all instances, was found to be euphemisms used to make something sound more pleasant.
A common language and shared understanding of family violence? Corpus-based approaches in support of system responses to family violence
Authors: Penry Williams Cara , N. Stebbins Tonya
Published: April 2023

Family violence is an enduring social problem with devastating impacts. The Victorian Government (Australia) Royal Commission (state inquiry) into Family Violence (rcfv) noted that language is implicated in the under-reporting and under-recording of violence, and emphasised the importance of agencies having ‘a common language’ and ‘shared understanding’ of family violence. Our analyses examine written submissions to the rcfv for frequencies and collocations, focussed on the construction and roles of human referents. We utilised corpus-assisted discourse analysis to explore whether community service and law-based professional bodies do have common vocabularies and if these represent shared ideas, responding directly to agendas set by those involved. Our analyses show key differences but also uncover a shared lack of agency given to victims and a loss of focus on the role of those who inflict these forms of violence. We argue for the utility of corpus linguistic methods to show empirically how language is used to construct conceptualisations of family violence across key sectors of the service system. We intend this research as a starting point for discussion between professionals working to improve cross-sector communication, by bringing linguistic insights to this deep-rooted social issue.
Improved understanding of biorisk for research involving microbial modification using annotated sequences of concern
Authors: Godbold Gene D. , Hewitt F. Curtis , Kappell Anthony D. , Scholz Matthew B. , Agar Stacy L. , Treangen Todd J. , Ternus Krista L. , Sandbrink Jonas B. , Koblentz Gregory D.
Published: April 2023

Regulation of research on microbes that cause disease in humans has historically been focused on taxonomic lists of ‘bad bugs’. However, given our increased knowledge of these pathogens through inexpensive genome sequencing, 5 decades of research in microbial pathogenesis, and the burgeoning capacity of synthetic biologists, the limitations of this approach are apparent. With heightened scientific and public attention focused on biosafety and biosecurity, and an ongoing review by US authorities of dual-use research oversight, this article proposes the incorporation of sequences of concern (SoCs) into the biorisk management regime governing genetic engineering of pathogens. SoCs enable pathogenesis in all microbes infecting hosts that are ‘of concern’ to human civilization. Here we review the functions of SoCs (FunSoCs) and discuss how they might bring clarity to potentially problematic research outcomes involving infectious agents. We believe that annotation of SoCs with FunSoCs has the potential to improve the likelihood that dual use research of concern is recognized by both scientists and regulators before it occurs.
Improved laccase production by Trametes versicolor using Copper-Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine as a novel and high-efficient inducer
Authors: Wang Feng , Yu Xiaolei , Yu Zhuo , Cui Yi , Xu Ling , Huo Shuhao , Ding Zhongyang , Zhao Liting , Du Lizhi , Qiu Yanguo
Published: April 2023

A highly efficient strategy using Copper-Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine (GHK-Cu) as a novel inducer was developed to enhance laccase production by Trametes versicolor. After medium optimization, laccase activity increased by 12.77-fold compared to that without GHK-Cu. The laccase production of 1113.8 U L−1 was obtained by scaling-up culture in 5-L stirring tank. The laccase production induced by CuSO4 was poorer than that of GHK-Cu at the same mole concentration. GHK-Cu could increase the permeability of cell membrane with less damage, and it facilitated the adsorption, accumulation, and utilization of copper by fungal cells, which was beneficial for laccase synthesis. GHK-Cu induced better expression of laccase related genes than that of CuSO4, resulting in higher laccase production. This study provided a useful method for induced production of laccase by applying GHK chelated metal ion as a non-toxic inducer, which reduced the safety risk of laccase broth and provided the potential application of crude laccase in food industry. In addition, GHK can be used as the carrier of different metal ions to enhance the production of other metalloenzymes.
Divergent patterns of meiotic double strand breaks and synapsis initiation dynamics suggest an evolutionary shift in the meiosis program between American and Australian marsupials
Authors: Valero-Regalón F. Javier , Solé Mireia , López-Jiménez Pablo , Valerio-de Arana María , Martín-Ruiz Marta , de la Fuente Roberto , Marín-Gual Laia , Renfree Marilyn B. , Shaw Geoff , Berríos Soledad , Fernández-Donoso Raúl , Waters Paul D. , Ruiz-Herrera Aurora , Gómez Rocío , Page Jesús
Published: April 2023

In eutherian mammals, hundreds of programmed DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are generated at the onset of meiosis. The DNA damage response is then triggered. Although the dynamics of this response is well studied in eutherian mammals, recent findings have revealed different patterns of DNA damage signaling and repair in marsupial mammals. To better characterize these differences, here we analyzed synapsis and the chromosomal distribution of meiotic DSBs markers in three different marsupial species (Thylamys elegans, Dromiciops gliorides, and Macropus eugenii) that represent South American and Australian Orders. Our results revealed inter-specific differences in the chromosomal distribution of DNA damage and repair proteins, which were associated with differing synapsis patterns. In the American species T. elegans and D. gliroides, chromosomal ends were conspicuously polarized in a bouquet configuration and synapsis progressed exclusively from the telomeres towards interstitial regions. This was accompanied by sparse H2AX phosphorylation, mainly accumulating at chromosomal ends. Accordingly, RAD51 and RPA were mainly localized at chromosomal ends throughout prophase I in both American marsupials, likely resulting in reduced recombination rates at interstitial positions. In sharp contrast, synapsis initiated at both interstitial and distal chromosomal regions in the Australian representative M. eugenii, the bouquet polarization was incomplete and ephemeral, γH2AX had a broad nuclear distribution, and RAD51 and RPA foci displayed an even chromosomal distribution. Given the basal evolutionary position of T. elegans, it is likely that the meiotic features reported in this species represent an ancestral pattern in marsupials and that a shift in the meiotic program occurred after the split of D. gliroides and the Australian marsupial clade. Our results open intriguing questions about the regulation and homeostasis of meiotic DSBs in marsupials. The low recombination rates observed at the interstitial chromosomal regions in American marsupials can result in the formation of large linkage groups, thus having an impact in the evolution of their genomes.
Chemical doping of unsubstituted perylene diimide to create radical anions with enhanced stability and tunable photothermal conversion efficiency
Authors: Che Canyan , Tong Shaohua , Jia Yanhua , Yang Jiaji , He Xiandong , Han Shaobo , Jiang Qinglin , Ma Yuguang
Published: April 2023

N-doping of perylene diimides (PDIs) to create stable radical anions is significant for harvesting photothermal energy due to their intensive absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region and non-fluorescence. In this work, a facile and straightforward method has been developed to control the doping of perylene diimide to create radical anions using organic polymer polyethyleneimine (PEI) as a dopant. It was demonstrated that PEI is an effective polymer-reducing agent for the n-doping of PDI toward the controllable generation of radical anions. In addition to the doping process, PEI could suppress the self-assembly aggregation and improve the stability of PDI radical anions. Tunable NIR photothermal conversion efficiency (maximum 47.9%) was also obtained from the radical-anion-rich PDI-PEI composites. This research provides a new strategy to tune the doping level of unsubstituted semiconductor molecules for varying yields of radical anions, suppressing aggregation, improving stability, and obtaining the highest radical anion-based performance.
Binary and ternary complexes of epinephrine with alginate and biologically and environmentally relevant metal cations
Authors: Irto Anna , Cigala Rosalia Maria , Alessandrello Chiara , De Stefano Concetta , Gattuso Giuseppe , Crea Francesco
Published: April 2023

The speciation of epinephrine (Eph−) in the presence of alginate (Alg2-) and two biological and environmental relevant metal cations (Cu2+, UO22+) was investigated at T = 298.15K, I = 0.15–1.00 mol dm−3 in NaCl(aq). The formation of binary and ternary complexes was evaluated and, since epinephrine can behave as a zwitterion, the Eph−/Alg2- interaction was studied by means of DOSY NMR. The dependence of the equilibrium constants on ionic strength was studied using an extended Debye-Hückel type equation and the SIT approach. The effect of temperature was investigated by means of isoperibolic titration calorimetry: the entropic contribution was the driving force for the Cu2+/Eph− complexes formation. The sequestering ability of Eph− and Alg2- on Cu2+, evaluated by the pL0.5 calculation, increased with pH and ionic strength. The determination of pM parameter showed that Eph− had a higher Cu2+ affinity with respect to Alg2-. The formation of Eph−/Alg2- species was also investigated by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and 1H NMR measurements. The ternary Cu2+/Eph−/Alg2- and Cu2+/UO22+/Eph− interactions were also studied. The “extra-stability” calculated for the mixed ternary species confirmed that their formation was thermodynamically favorable.
A genetic and developmental biological approach for a family with complex congenital heart diseases—evidence of digenic inheritance
Authors: Yoshida Yu , Uchida Keiko , Kodo Kazuki , Ishizaki-Asami Reina , Maeda Jun , Katsumata Yoshinori , Yuasa Shinsuke , Fukuda Keiichi , Kosaki Kenjiro , Watanabe Yusuke , Nakagawa Osamu , Yamagishi Hiroyuki
Published: April 2023

Objective

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is caused by cardiovascular developmental defects and has a global prevalence of ∼1%. The etiology of CHD is multifactorial and remains generally unknown, despite advances in analytical techniques based on next-generation sequencing (NGS). The aim of our study was to elucidate the multi-genetic origin and pathogenesis of an intriguing familial case with complex CHD.

Methods

We performed an original trio-based gene panel analysis using NGS of the family, including two siblings with CHD of single ventricular phenotype, and their unaffected parents. The pathogenicity of the detected rare variants was investigated in silico, and the functional effects of the variants were confirmed in vitro using luciferase assays. The combinatorial effect of gene alterations of the putative responsible genes was tested in vivo using genetically engineered mutant mice.

Results

NGS-based gene panel analyses revealed two heterozygous rare variants in NODAL and in TBX20 common to the siblings and to just one of parents. Both variants were suspected pathogenic in silico, and decreased transcriptional activities of downstream signaling pathways were observed in vitro. The analyses of Nodal and Tbx20 double mutant mice demonstrated that Nodal+/−Tbx20−/− embryos showed more severe defects than Nodal+/+Tbx20−/− embryos during early heart development. The expression of Pitx2, a known downstream target of Nodal, was downregulated in Tbx20−/− mutants.

Conclusions

Two rare variants on NODAL and TBX20 genes detected in this family were considered to be loss-of-function mutations. Our results suggest that NODAL and TBX20 may be complementary for the cardiac development, and a combinatorial loss-of-function of NODAL and TBX20 could be implicated in digenic inherence as the etiology of complex CHD associated with single ventricle defects in this family.
The effect analysis of three-dimensional divergence and its vertical gradient on convection initiation
Authors: Zhou Kuo , Ran Lingkun , Zhang Wancheng , Tian Liqing , Chen Lei , Liu Haiwen
Published: April 2023

A severe convection process occurred in southern Xinjiang during June 15–17, 2021. Here, the convection initiation mechanism is revealed by analyzing the impacts of three-dimensional divergence (∇⋅V) on the changes in pressure and the vertical pressure gradient force (VPGF). The pressure tendency equation and vertical pressure gradient force equation are derived based on three-dimensional divergence. It is shown that three-dimensional divergence has a better correlation with precipitation. The local change in pressure is affected mainly by the three-dimensional divergence forcing term. The air mass accumulates in the lower layers because of the three-dimensional convergence in the windward slope, strengthening the positive pressure change tendency. Three-dimensional convergence in the lower layers converts to divergence with height, leading to air mass loss in the upper layers. The air mass redistributes vertically owing to the positive vertical gradient of three-dimensional divergence, which motivates the upward VPGF. The local change in VPGF is highly correlated with the vertical velocity. The vertical velocity increases as the upward VPGF strengthens, resulting in convection initiation in southern Xinjiang.
Exploring the impact of Stein et al.’s levels of cognitive demand in supporting students’ mathematics heuristic problem-solving abilities
Authors: Wakhata Robert , Mutarutinya Védaste , Balimuttajjo Sudi
Published: April 2023

The present study explored the impact of Stein et al.’s levels of cognitive demand (LCD) on evaluation and instructional methods in applying the knowledge of equations and inequalities to learn the topic of linear programming (LP). The framework provided by Stein et al. was used to map students’ LP cognitive demands. Students’ specific proficiency levels in solving LP tasks using Stein et al.’s LCD hierarchical framework were investigated. A mixed-method approach with a pre-test and post-test pre-intervention pilot study involving a non-equivalent control group design was applied. The participants were 175 grade 11 students from Mbale district, eastern Uganda. Two pre-interventional LP tests (pre-test and post-test) were administered to the students to examine their cognitive demands. This was followed by an intervention involving application of Stein et al.’s LCD in learning LP. The results showed that before pre-intervention, the performance of urban school’s average post-test scores was higher than that of the rural school. Students from the rural secondary school improved greatly relative to their peers from the urban school. Moreover, only 25.1% of students performed at the highest level of Stein et al.’s LCD (doing mathematics). The post-test scores were better relative to the pre-test (M = 56.51 ± 20.88 vs. 42.23 ± 22.49; p < 0.05). Overall, there was a statistically significant difference between students’ average grades in the pre-interventional pre-test and the post-test (Cohen’s d = 0.81 > 0.5), 95% CI [−18.00, −10.56]). Holding other factors constant, the significant differences in students’ scores were mainly due to the application of suitable tasks which were later mediated by the application of Stein et al.’s LCD instructional approach. This study, therefore, recommends that mathematics educators should effectively apply Stein et al.’s LCD to vary mathematics tasks given to students. This approach enhances students’ cognitive levels, supports students’ heuristic problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and application of mathematics in real-life.
State-space models to describe survival of an endemic species in the Little Tennessee River basin
Authors: Doll Jason C. , Etchison Luke , Owensby Dylan
Published: April 2023

Endemic species are threatened by invasive species, habitat loss, and climate change. Endemic species are also an important group that maintains biodiversity. Understanding population dynamics of endemic species is needed to maintain or restore their populations. Advancements in models that describe population dynamics of endemic species and species of conservation need has been made possible by the application of novel quantitative methods. One such modeling tool is state-space modeling. These models provide a flexible framework to describe population dynamics using simple mortality models and more complex integrated population models. Here we develop a state-space model to describe survival and population size of the Sicklefin Redhorse (Catostomidae:Moxostomasp.), a species of conservation concern from two rivers located in North Carolina, USA. This model is structured to combine information across similar rivers and to account for complex interactions of sex, time, variable sampling effort, and river discharge. Survival of Sicklefin Redhorse was found to vary by sex, and annual variability was not consistent across rivers. Discharge was negatively related to capture probability for males. Capture probabilities also differed across sex. Population estimates revealed a large difference between sex where males outnumbered females each year in both rivers. We conclude that electrofishing is not an efficient capture method but when used, should consider discharge. Discharge was not included in the survival model, however, the 3 years with the lowest survival in the Little Tennessee River coincided with the three lowest discharge years in the time series. Future work should investigate the difference in survival between the rivers.
Quantitative analysis of social media use in the energy and resources sector: national comparison and sector analysis
Authors: Duojie Caidan , Liu Shiyu
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the current situation of social media adoption in the energy and resources sector, the preferred social media platforms in the energy and resources sector, and the reasons for the differences between these preferred platforms. In this study, quantitative analysis method was adopted, and we used Excel and SPSS for data collection and data analysis. Through the investigation of 262 companies, all companies maintained a strong online presence through corporate websites, email contacts, and various social media platforms. However, the adoption and use of social media platforms differed among countries. Linear regression analysis revealed that companies should constantly update their relevant information on social media platforms to increase their followers, improve their influence and popularity, and achieve better interaction with stakeholders. Through quantitative analysis, it was found that companies in the energy and resources sector should maintain a strong online presence. These companies should choose specific social media platforms according to their target audience. Because some platforms are more suitable for specific purposes, companies should pay attention to the different designs and functions of each social media platform. Future research should focus on the use of social media in B2B marketing by companies operating in the energy and resources sector.
Macrophages-derived Factor XIII links coagulation to inflammation in COPD
Authors: Bazzan Erica , Casara Alvise , Radu Claudia Maria , Tinè Mariaenrica , Biondini Davide , Faccioli Eleonora , Pezzuto Federica , Bernardinello Nicol , Conti Maria , Balestro Elisabetta , Calabrese Fiorella , Simioni Paolo , Rea Federico , Turato Graziella , Spagnolo Paolo , Cosio Manuel G. , Saetta Marina
Published: April 2023

Background

The local, extravascular, activation of the coagulation system in response to injury is a key factor mediating the resulting inflammatory response. Coagulation Factor XIIIA (FXIIIA) found in alveolar macrophages (AM) and dendritic cells (DC), by influencing fibrin stability, might be an inflammatory modifier in COPD.

Aims

To study the expression of FXIIIA in AM and Langerin+DC (DC-1) and their relation to the inflammatory response and disease progression in COPD.

Methods

In 47 surgical lungs, 36 from smokers (22 COPD and 14 no-COPD) and 11 from non-smokers we quantified by immunohistochemistry FXIIIA expression in AM and DC-1 along with numbers of CD8+Tcells and CXCR3 expression in lung parenchyma and airways. Lung function was measured prior to surgery.

Results

The percentage of AM expressing FXIII (%FXIII+AM) was higher in COPD than no-COPD and non-smokers. DC-1 expressed FXIIIA and their numbers were higher in COPD than no-COPD and non-smokers. DC-1 positively correlated with %FXIII+AM (r=0.43; p<0.018). CD8+Tcells, which were higher in COPD than in no-COPD, were correlated with DC-1 (p<0.01) and %FXIII+AM. CXCR3+ cells were increased in COPD and correlated with %FXIII+AM (p<0.05). Both %FXIII+AM (r=-0.6; p=0.001) and DC-1 (r=-0.7; p=0.001) correlated inversely with FEV1.

Conclusion

FXIIIA, an important link between the extravascular coagulation cascade and inflammatory response, is significantly expressed in alveolar macrophages and dendritic cells of smokers with COPD, suggesting that it could play an important role in the adaptive inflammatory reaction characteristic of the disease.
Immunomodulatory role of estrogen in ischemic stroke: neuroinflammation and effect of sex
Authors: Zhong Xiaojun , Sun Yulin , Lu Yajun , Xu Lei
Published: April 2023

Although estrogen is predominantly related to the maintenance of reproductive functioning in females, it mediates various physiological effects in nearly all tissues, especially the central nervous system. Clinical trials have revealed that estrogen, especially 17β-estradiol, can attenuate cerebral damage caused by an ischemic stroke. One mechanism underlying this effect of 17β-estradiol is by modulating the responses of immune cells, indicating its utility as a novel therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. The present review summarizes the effect of sex on ischemic stroke progression, the role of estrogen as an immunomodulator in immune reactions, and the potential clinical value of estrogen replacement therapy. The data presented here will help better understand the immunomodulatory function of estrogen and may provide a basis for its novel therapeutic use in ischemic stroke.
Nanophytoplankton and microphytoplankton in the western tropical Pacific Ocean: its community structure, cell size and carbon biomass
Authors: Yan Wenzhuo , Chen Zhuo , Zhang Linlin , Wang Feng , Zhang Guicheng , Sun Jun
Published: April 2023

Phytoplankton, as a crucial component of the marine ecosystem, plays a fundamental role in global biogeochemical cycles. This study investigated the composition and distribution of phytoplankton in the western Tropical Pacific Ocean using the Utermöhl method and carbon volume conversion. We identified four primary groups of phytoplankton: dinoflagellates (181 species), diatoms (73 species), cyanobacteria (4 species), and chrysophyceae (2 species). The clustering analysis classified phytoplankton into four groups based on their composition, which were found to be closely related to ocean currents. Diatoms were highly abundant in areas influenced by current-seamount interaction. In contrast, areas with little influence from ocean currents were dominated by Trichodesmium. The majority of phytoplankton had an equivalent spherical diameter (ESD) of 2-12 μm, with a few exceeding 25 μm. Although nanophytoplankton (ESD = 2-20 µm) dominated cell abundance, microphytoplankton (ESD = 20-200 µm) contributed significantly to carbon biomass (792.295 mg m-3). This study yielded valuable insights into the distribution and composition of phytoplankton in the western tropical Pacific Ocean, shedding light on the relationship between species distribution and ocean currents. In addition, it provided fundamental information regarding cell size and carbon biomass within the region.
Epidemiological profile and risk factors associated with death in patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation in an adult intensive care unit from Brazil: a retrospective study
Authors: Palamim Camila Vantini Capasso , Boschiero Matheus Negri , Marson Fernando Augusto Lima
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Understanding the epidemiological profile and risk factors associated with invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is essential to manage the patients better and to improve health services. Therefore, our objective was to describe the epidemiological profile of adult patients in intensive care that required IMV in-hospital treatment. Also, to evaluate the risks associated with death and the influence of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) at admission in the clinical outcome.

Methods

We conducted an epidemiological study analyzing medical records of inpatients who received IMV from January 2016 to December 2019 prior to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID)-19 pandemic in Brazil. We considered the following characteristics in the statistical analysis: demographic data, diagnostic hypothesis, hospitalization data, and PEEP and PaO2 during IMV. We associated the patients’ features with the risk of death using a multivariate binary logistic regression analysis. We adopted an alpha error of 0.05.

Results

We analyzed 1,443 medical records; out of those, 570 (39.5%) recorded the patients’ deaths. The binary logistic regression was significant in predicting the patients’ risk of death [X2(9) = 288.335; p < 0.001]. Among predictors, the most significant in relation to death risk were: age [elderly ≥65 years old; OR = 2.226 (95%CI = 1.728–2.867)]; male sex (OR = 0.754; 95%CI = 0.593–0.959); sepsis diagnosis (OR = 1.961; 95%CI = 1.481–2.595); need for elective surgery (OR = 0.469; 95%CI = 0.362–0.608); the presence of cerebrovascular accident (OR = 2.304; 95%CI = 1.502–3.534); time of hospital care (OR = 0.946; 95%CI = 0.935–0.956); hypoxemia at admission (OR = 1.635; 95%CI = 1.024–2.611), and PEEP >8 cmH2O at admission (OR = 2.153; 95%CI = 1.426–3.250).

Conclusion

The death rate of the studied intensive care unit was equivalent to that of other similar units. Regarding risk predictors, several demographic and clinical characteristics were associated with enhanced mortality in intensive care unit patients under mechanical ventilation, such as diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, and older age. The PEEP >8 cmH2O at admission was also associated with increased mortality since this value is a marker of initially severe hypoxia.
Is stress related to itch in German students? Results of an online survey
Authors: Kiupel Stephanie , Kupfer Jörg , Kottlors Sophia , Gieler Uwe , Yosipovitch Gil , Schut Christina
Published: April 2023

Introduction

German students report to be more stressed than the general population. Highly stressed students from other countries (United States, Australia, Saudi-Arabia) were found to have more skin symptoms, including itch, than lowly stressed students. The current study aimed to assess whether itch is associated with stress in a larger sample of German students.

Methods

838 students (3.2% of all invited students) took part in the questionnaire based study and filled in the Perceived Stress Questionnaire as well as a modified version of the Self-Reported Skin Questionnaire. Students were categorized into highly (HSS) and lowly stressed students (LSS) by determination of the 25th and 75th percentile.

Results

Itch occurred significantly more often in HSS compared to LSS (OR = 3.41 (2.17–5.35)). In addition, itch intensity was significantly related to perceived stress.

Discussion

These findings not only highlight the importance of offering stress management trainings also to students in Germany in order to minimize itch, but also encourage future research on stress and itch in certain student subgroups.
Looking into sewage: how far can metagenomics help to detect human enteric viruses?
Authors: Schaeffer Julien , Desdouits Marion , Besnard Alban , Le Guyader Françoise S.
Published: April 2023

The impact of human sewage on environmental and food contamination constitutes an important safety issue. Indeed, human sewage reflects the microbiome of the local population, and a variety of human viruses can be detected in wastewater samples. Being able to describe the diversity of viruses present in sewage will provide information on the health of the surrounding population health and will help to prevent further transmission. Metagenomic developments, allowing the description of all the different genomes present in a sample, are very promising tools for virome analysis. However, looking for human enteric viruses with short RNA genomes which are present at low concentrations is challenging. In this study we demonstrate the benefits of performing technical replicates to improve viral identification by increasing contig length, and the set-up of quality criteria to increase confidence in results. Our approach was able to effectively identify some virus sequences and successfully describe the viral diversity. The method yielded full genomes either for norovirus, enterovirus and rotavirus, even if, for these segmented genomes, combining genes remain a difficult issue. Developing reliable viromic methods is important as wastewater sample analysis provides an important tool to prevent further virus transmission by raising alerts in case of viral outbreaks or emergence.
Transcriptomic profiling revealed important roles of amino acid metabolism in fruiting body formation at different ripening times in Hypsizygus marmoreus
Authors: Xiang Quanju , Arshad Muhammad , Li Yakun , Zhang Huijuan , Gu Yunfu , Yu Xiumei , Zhao Ke , Ma Menggen , Zhang Lingzi , He Maolan , Chen Qiang
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Hypsizygus marmoreus is an industrial mushroom that is widely cultivated in East Asia. Its long postripening stage before fruiting severely limits its industrialized production.

Methods

Five different mycelial ripening times (30, 50, 70, 90, and 100 d) were chosen and primordia (30P, 50P, 70P, 90P, and 110P) were collected for comparative transcriptomic analyses. The corresponding substrates (30F, 50F, 70F, 90F, and 110F) were used for nutrient content and enzyme activity determination.

Results

In pairwise comparisons between 110P and other primordia, a total of 1,194, 977, 773, and 697 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in 30P_110P, 50P_110P, 70P_110P, and 90P_110P, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses revealed that the DEGs were mainly associated with amino acid metabolism, and lipid and carbohydrate metabolism pathways. Tyrosine, tryptophan, phenylalanine and histidine metabolism were enriched in all groups. Among the main carbon nutrients, the contents of cellulose and hemicellulose were high, and the lignin content decreased with the extension of the ripening time. Laccase had the highest activity, and acid protease activity decreased with the extension of the ripening time.

Discussion

The highly enrichment for amino acid metabolic pathways in primordia reveals that these pathways are essential for fruiting body formation in H. marmoreus, and these results will provide a basis for the optimization of its cultivation.
Case report: Genotype and phenotype of DYNC1H1-related malformations of cortical development: a case report and literature review
Authors: Ge Wen-Rong , Fu Pei-Pei , Zhang Wei-Na , Zhang Bo , Ding Ying-Xue , Yang Guang
Published: April 2023

Background

Mutations in the dynein cytoplasmic 1 heavy chain 1 (DYNC1H1) gene are linked to malformations of cortical development (MCD), which may be accompanied by central nervous system (CNS) manifestations. Here, we present the case of a patient with MCD harboring a variant of DYNC1H1 and review the relevant literature to explore genotype-phenotype relationships.

Case presentation

A girl having infantile spasms, was unsuccessfully administered multiple antiseizure medications and developed drug-resistant epilepsy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 14 months-of-age revealed pachygyria. At 4 years-of-age, the patient exhibited severe developmental delay and mental retardation. A de novo heterozygous mutation (p.Arg292Trp) in the DYNC1H1 gene was identified. A search of multiple databases, including PubMed and Embase, using the search strategy DYNC1H1 AND [malformations of cortical development OR seizure OR intellectual OR clinical symptoms] up to June 2022, identified 129 patients from 43 studies (including the case presented herein). A review of these cases showed that patients with DYNC1H1-related MCD had higher risks of epilepsy (odds ratio [OR] = 33.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 11.59, 97.84) and intellectual disability/developmental delay (OR = 52.64, 95% CI = 16.27, 170.38). Patients with the variants in the regions encoding the protein stalk or microtubule-binding domain had the most prevalence of MCD (95%).

Conclusion

MCD, particularly pachygyria, is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in patients with DYNC1H1 mutations. Literature searches reveales that most (95%) patients who carried mutations in the protein stalk or microtubule binding domains exhibited DYNC1H1-related MCD, whereas almost two-thirds of patients (63%) who carried mutations in the tail domain did not display MCD. Patients with DYNC1H1 mutations may experience central nervous system (CNS) manifestations due to MCD.
Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D as a predictive biomarker of clinical outcomes in patients with primary membranous nephropathy
Authors: Duan Suyan , Chen Si , Lu Fang , Zhou Meng , Jiang Ling , Chen Chen , Geng Luhan , Sun Rui , Xu Yili , Huang Zhimin , Zhang Chengning , Zhang Bo , Mao Huijuan , Xing Changying , Yuan Yanggang
Published: April 2023

Background

Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is an immune-related disease with increased morbidity and the most common cause of adult nephrotic syndrome (NS). The serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D)], a biomarker of vitamin D (VD) status, tends to decline in patients with kidney disease. However, the relationship between 25(OH)D and PMN is still unclear. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the association between 25(OH)D and disease severity and therapy response of PMN.

Methods

A total of 490 participants diagnosed with PMN by biopsy from January 2017 to April 2022 were recruited at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The correlations between baseline 25(OH)D and manifestations of nephrotic syndrome (NS) or seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab were confirmed by univariate and multivariate logistic analyses. Spearman’s correlations were used to examine the associations between baseline 25(OH)D and other clinical parameters. In the follow-up cohort, Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess remission outcomes among groups with low, medium, and high levels of 25(OH)D. Furthermore, the independent risk factors for non-remission (NR) were explored by COX regression analysis.

Results

At baseline, 25(OH)D was negatively related to 24-h urinary protein and serum anti-PLA2R Ab. The lower level of baseline 25(OH)D was associated with an increased risk for the incidence of NS in PMN (model 2, OR 6.8, 95% CI 4.4, 10.7, P < 0.001) and seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab (model 2, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.6, 3.7, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the lower level of 25(OH)D during follow-up was demonstrated as an independent risk factor for NR even after adjusting age, gender, MBP, 24 h UP, serum anti-PLA2R Ab, serum albumin, and serum C3 [25(OH)D (39.2–62.3 nmol/L): HR 4.90, 95% CI 1.02, 23.53 P = 0.047; 25(OH)D < 39.2 nmol/L: HR 17.52, 95% CI 4.04, 76.03 P < 0.001); vs. 25(OH)D ≥ 62.3 nmol/L]. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis also demonstrated that the higher level of follow-up 25(OH)D had a higher possibility of remission than the lower one (log-rank test, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Baseline 25(OH)D was significantly correlated with nephrotic proteinuria and seropositivity of anti-PLA2R Ab in PMN. As an independent risk factor for NR, a low level of 25(OH)D during follow-up might serve as a prognostic tool for sensitively identifying cases with a high probability of poor treatment response.
Imaging biomarkers associated with extra-axial intracranial tumors: a systematic review
Authors: Wijethilake Navodini , MacCormac Oscar , Vercauteren Tom , Shapey Jonathan
Published: April 2023

Extra-axial brain tumors are extra-cerebral tumors and are usually benign. The choice of treatment for extra-axial tumors is often dependent on the growth of the tumor, and imaging plays a significant role in monitoring growth and clinical decision-making. This motivates the investigation of imaging biomarkers for these tumors that may be incorporated into clinical workflows to inform treatment decisions. The databases from Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, and Medline were searched from 1 January 2000 to 7 March 2022, to systematically identify relevant publications in this area. All studies that used an imaging tool and found an association with a growth-related factor, including molecular markers, grade, survival, growth/progression, recurrence, and treatment outcomes, were included in this review. We included 42 studies, comprising 22 studies (50%) of patients with meningioma; 17 studies (38.6%) of patients with pituitary tumors; three studies (6.8%) of patients with vestibular schwannomas; and two studies (4.5%) of patients with solitary fibrous tumors. The included studies were explicitly and narratively analyzed according to tumor type and imaging tool. The risk of bias and concerns regarding applicability were assessed using QUADAS-2. Most studies (41/44) used statistics-based analysis methods, and a small number of studies (3/44) used machine learning. Our review highlights an opportunity for future work to focus on machine learning-based deep feature identification as biomarkers, combining various feature classes such as size, shape, and intensity.

Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, CRD42022306922
Carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone in relapsed refractory multiple myeloma: a prospective real-life experience of the Regional Tuscan Myeloma Network
Authors: Antonioli Elisabetta , Pilerci Sofia , Attucci Irene , Buda Gabriele , Gozzetti Alessandro , Candi Veronica , Simonetti Federico , Giudice Maria Livia Del , Ciofini Sara , Staderini Michela , Grammatico Sara , Buzzichelli Alessandra , Messeri Maria , Bocchia Monica , Galimberti Sara , Vannucchi Alessandro M.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Carfilzomib, a potent, irreversible, selective proteasome inhibitor has demonstrated consistent results in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) combined with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (KRd). No prospective studies are yet available that analyzed the efficacy of the KRd combination.

Methods

Herein, we report a multicenter prospective observational study on 85 patients who were treated with KRd combination as the second or third line of treatment, according to standard practice.

Results

The median age was 61 years; high-risk cytogenetic was found in 26% and renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min) in 17%. After a median follow-up of 40 months, patients received a median number of 16 cycles of KRd, with a median duration of treatment (DoT) of 18 months (range, 16.1–19.2 months). The overall response rate was 95%, with a high-quality response (≥very good partial remission [VGPR]) in 57% of the patients. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 36 months (range, 29.1–43.2 months). Achievement of at least VGPR and a previous autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) were associated with longer PFS. The median overall survival (OS) was not reached (NR); the 5-year OS rate was 73%. Nineteen patients underwent KRd treatment as a bridge to autologous transplantation, obtaining a post-transplant minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity in 65% of cases. The most common adverse events were hematological, followed by infection and cardiovascular events, rarely G3 or higher, with a discontinuation rate for toxicities of 6%. Our data confirmed the feasibility and safety of the KRd regimen in real life.