bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sources and biogeochemistry of bio-active trace metals in the Southern Ocean and coastal Antarctica: perspectives from their isotopes
Authors:   , Tian Hung-An
Published: August 2024

Bio-essential trace elements, such as iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), also known as micronutrients, are critical for all life because of their biochemical roles in various metabolic processes. They are also pivotal for marine phytoplankton growth, the base of the marine food web. In the oceans, High-Nutrient Low-Chlorophyll (HNLC) surface regions are characterized by sufficient macronutrient (e.g., phosphate, nitrite/nitrate, sillicate) supply but limited primary productivity due to the lack of Fe and light. As the largest HNLC region, the Southern Ocean is suggested to have a great potential to absorb a large amount of atmospheric CO2 if the phytoplankton requirements for Fe and light are fulfilled. Given the importance of the Southern Ocean to the global climate and ocean circulation, it is crucial to understand its marine biogeochemistry, notably the cycling of trace elements in coastal Antarctic regions, and their influence on globally relevant processes. In this thesis, two bio-essential trace elements, Fe and Zn, together with Cd, and their isotopic compositions, are studied in two distinct coastal Antarctic regions – the Amundsen Sea (AS) and the Weddell Sea (WS) to expand our understanding of these crucial bioactive elements in the dynamic Southern Ocean. The AS is characterized by the extensive intrusion of warm modified Circumpolar Deep Water (mCDW) onto the continental shelf through glacial troughs that lead to rapid ice sheet melting as it flows under ice shelves (i.e., Dotson Ice Shelf, DIS). The upwelling of mCDW also accelerates sea ice melting, creating polynyas (i.e., open areas surrounded by sea ice) that harbour productive and long-lasting phytoplankton blooms in spring-summer – the Amundsen Sea Polynya (ASP) shows the highest annual net primary production rate per unit area among Antarctica polynyas. The WS is part of the wind-driven Weddell Gyre, which is a crucial component of the global oceanic circulation as a primary formation region of deep-water masses. In the southern and western parts of the WS, dense, saline, cold shelf water forms through sea ice formation and brine rejection in winter, which subsequently descends along the continental slope, eventually exiting the WS through the Scotia Sea, contributing to AABW and the global ocean conveyor belt. Both the AS and the WS hold the potential to influence or be influenced by the global biogeochemical cycles of trace metals. Chapters 2, 3, and 4 delve into the biogeochemical aspects of these elements in the AS, while Chapters 4 and 5 focus on the WS. These regions hold particular significance due to their potential regional biogeochemical dynamics, which may have global repercussions. I utilized stable isotopic compositions as a tool to unravel the complex dynamics of these elements in these rapid changing environments.
Preparing health professions learners to work with uncertainty
Authors:   , Moffett Jennifer Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

The overarching aim of this PhD thesis is to investigate how health professions students learn to manage uncertainty during their undergraduate training. The work focusses in particular on the potential of an innovative online learning tool—a digital educational escape room (DEER)—to facilitate this learning.
 
The thesis begins with a scoping review that aims to "map" the existing literature on how undergraduate health professions students engage with uncertainty. This review synthesises findings from multiple journal databases and health professions education journals, offering insight into the current state of knowledge on this topic.
 
The thesis continues with a study that explores the application of a well-established taxonomy of uncertainty to guide an educational workshop. This workshop provided a learning environment where participants could critically examine instances of student uncertainty and identify relevant attributes—such as knowledge, skills, and attitudes—that may support undergraduate health professions students in managing uncertainty.
 
Following this, the thesis details the design, development, and evaluation of a digital educational escape room (DEER). A comprehensive account is provided of the development of the DEER. The thesis also examines the game-building process itself, analysing the experiences of student design team members with respect to the concept of psychological safety.
 
The thesis concludes with the evaluation of an early implementation of the escape room, including an exploration of how learning takes place, through the lens of the Community of Inquiry pedagogical model. This thesis provides a set of design principles for creating DEERs and concludes with practical recommendations for practitioners seeking to develop and utilise DEERs to enhance learning.
Apakah yang Membuat Generasi Y Bahagia di Tempat Kerja? Studi Deskriptif dengan Tinjauan Sosiodemografis
Authors: Hidayati Ira
Published: August 2024

This study aims to identify factors that influence happiness at work in generation Y employees based on sociodemographic review. The research method applied is descriptive quantitative method using survey method by looking at the frequency of respondents' answers and cross-tabulating with several categories of response answers. The approach used in this research is indigenous psychology. The research sample consisted of 200 employees. Data collection was conducted through purposive sampling technique using questions in a questionnaire developed by Kim (2009) Center For Indege- nous & Cultural Psychology (CCIP) Faculty of Psychology UGM and modified by the author according to research needs. The results showed that there are five factors that make a person happy at work, namely (1) positive relationships with others (2) achievement at work (3) work environment both physical and non-physical (4) compensation (5) the work factor itself. The positive relationship factor with others occupies the largest percentage of the other four factors. Furthermore, the results of the analysis based on sociodemographic reviews show that there is no difference between marital status and factors that affect happiness at work. Furthermore, there is no difference between employment status and factors affecting happiness at work. Based on the last level of education, there are variations in the results obtained. Based on gender, there are differences in the dominant factors affecting happiness at work
Sosialisasi Pencegahan Dan Penanganan Cidera Olahraga Di SMA SONS
Authors: Fahritsani Husni , Fajar Mutiara , Bayu I Made Andika , Riyoko Endie , Sugiharto Wachid , Sugarwanto Sugarwanto
Published: August 2024

Cedera olahraga adalah cedera yang timbul saat berlatih, bertanding ataupun saat setelah berolahraga. Cedera olahraga terjadi karena ketidakmampuan jaringan (otot, persendian, tendon, kulit) dan organ tubuh lainnya dalam menerima beban latihan pada saat berolahraga. Faktor yang mempengaruhi terjadinya cedera, yaitu kondisi individu (usia, jenis kelamin, karakter, pengalaman, pemanasan, kelainan postur), sarana olahraga (bentuk dan ukuran peralatan), karakteristik olahraga (jenis olahraga), lingkungan fisik (suhu dan kelembaban udara). Bila tidak segera ditangani dapat menimbulkan gangguan pembuluh darah otak (heat stroke) dan segera lakukan pemeriksaan apabila mengalami cedera saat berolahraga, agar bisa segera mendapatkan penanganan secara cepat dan tepat. Penanganan cedera olahraga dapat dilakukan dengan metode RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
Pemberdayaan Anggota PKK Kelurahan Joyotakan
Authors: Susanti Sinta Ari , Setiawan Deni , Al Alim Sarifudin Ihsan , Muliawan Buharudin , Wardani Dewanggi Latifa Puspa , Istikhomah Elfina , Faridah Ely , Handayani Fadlilah Nurul Fajri , Puspitasari Fibriani Dita , Latifah Hanan , Jannah Inayatul , Latifah Hanan , Al Majid Muhammad Zidane Yusi , Kartikasari Saraswati , Ulya Chafit
Published: August 2024

Minyak goreng merupakan bahan yang penting dan sering digunakan dalam kebutuhan dapur yang sering tersisa, biasanya disebut sebagai minyak jelantah. Keberadaan minyak jelantah dapat menjadi suatu resiko kesehatan apabila digunakan untuk menggoreng berulang kali, dan juga dapat mencemari lingkuan apabila dibuang sembarangan. Untuk itu perlu adanya pemberdayaan masyarakat dalam mengolah minyak jelantah agar menjadi produk nilai jual, salah satunya sebagai bahan lilin aromaterapi. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memberdayakan masyarakat, terutama peserta PKK (Pemberdayaan Kesejahteraan Keluarga) yang dalam kesehariannya sering menemui permasalahan minyak jelantah, agar mendapatkan wawasan dan keterampilan dalam mengolah minyak jelantah menjadi lilin aromaterapi melalui pelatihan. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan metode PAR (Participatory Action Research), yang tidak hanya fokus pada deskripsi atau analisis data, tetapi juga melibatkan peneliti dalam proses penyadaran sosial yang mendorong perubahan sosial. Tahapannya mengetahui, memahami, merencanakan, dan melaksanakan aksi. Kegiatan pelatihan bertempat di Kelurahan Joyotakan yang mana ditemukan permasalahan terkait penggunaan minyak jelantah. Proses pelatihan terbagi menjadi dua sesi yaitu pemaparan materi dengan metode ceramah dan praktek pembuatan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa peserta pelatihan sangat antusias ketika praktek dan dapat melakukannya dengan langkah pembuatan yang benar. Dampak dari kegiatan ini adalah masyarakat memiliki kesadaran untuk memanfaatkan minyak jelantah menjadi bahan lilin aromaterapi dan mampu mengimplementasikannya.
Coaching Klinik Teknik Dasar Renang Atlet Pemula Di Cakra Swimming Club Palu
Authors: Purwanto Didik , Ismail Muhammad , Murtono Tri , Kungku Christian , Rifandy Arief Aditya
Published: August 2024

Di balik prestasi Cakra Swimming Club Palu, terdapat tantangan yang perlu dihadapi, terutama dalam hal penguasaan teknik dasar renang. Tujuan dari pengabdian ini adalah meningkatkan teknik dasar renang atlet pemula di Cakra Swimming Club Palu melalui kegiatan coaching klinik. Kegiatan pengabdian ini akan berlangsung dalam beberapa tahap, yaitu pertama, tahap perencanaan yang terdiri dari pembentukan tim pengabdi, penentuan mitra, dan analisis kebutuhan serta masalah mitra; kedua, tahap persiapan yang terdiri dari koordinasi dengan pelatih dan orang tua mitra, sosialisasi awal kegiatan, serta persiapan materi, alat, dan bahan; ketiga, tahap pelaksanaan yang terdiri dari kegiatan coaching klinik/ pelatihan dan pendampingan, dan tahap terakhir adalah refleksi dan evaluasi. Coaching clinik ini diharapkan dapat membantu klub ini mengoptimalkan potensi mereka dalam pencapaian prestasi.
“Nove Instantâneos” para piano de Macedo Pinto
Authors: Afonso Gustavo , Marinho Helena
Published: August 2024

Pese embora a relevância da atividade artística de Victor Macedo Pinto (1917-1964), responsável por um legado musical eclético, em que o piano assume um papel central, o compositor e pianista português acabou por cair no esquecimento. Este artigo debruça-se sobre os seus Nove Instantâneos para piano, uma obra composta em 1956 e dedicada a Margot Dias. Partindo de um enquadramento da obra no repertório pianístico do compositor e de um levantamento das audições históricas nos anos 1950 e 1960, procurou-se reconhecer características e padrões performativos que refletissem o estilo singular de Macedo Pinto enquanto compositor, bem como as marcas de influência das personalidades que cruzaram o seu percurso artístico. Esta análise contemplou também a identificação das competências musicais e técnicas abordadas na obra, justificando a pertinência da sua implementação em contexto pedagógico e o seu posicionamento no repertório português do século XX destinado a jovens pianistas.
Subnetwork inclusion and switching of multilevel Boolean networks preserve parameter graph structure and dynamics
Authors: Duncan William , Cummins Breschine , Gedeon Tomáš
Published: August 2024

This study addresses a problem of correspondence between dynamics of a parameterized system and the structure of interactions within that system. The structure of interactions is captured by a signed network. A network dynamics is parameterized by collections of multi-level monotone Boolean functions (MBFs), which are organized in a parameter graph PG. Each collection generates dynamics which are captured in a structure of recurrent sets called a Morse graph. We study two operations on signed graphs, switching and subnetwork inclusion, and show that these induce dynamics-preserving maps between parameter graphs. We show that duality, a standard operation on MBFs, and switching are dynamically related: If M is the switch of N, then duality gives an isomorphism between PG(N) and PG(M) which preserves dynamics and thus Morse graphs. We then show that for each subnetwork M ⊂ N, there are embeddings of the parameter graph PG(M) into PG(N) that preserve the Morse graph. Since our combinatorial description of network dynamics is closely related to switching ODE network models, our results suggest similar results for parameterized sets of smooth ODE network models of the network dynamics.
Residual kinematic deviations of the shoulder during humeral elevation after conservative treatment for mid-shaft clavicle fractures
Authors: Hung Li-Wei , Lu Hsuan-Yu , Chen Tsan-Yang , Wang Ting-Ming , Lu Tung-Wu
Published: August 2024

Despite residual functional deficits clinically observed in conservatively treated mid-shaft clavicle fractures, no study has reported a quantitative assessment of the treatment effects on the kinematics of the shoulder complex during functional movement. Using computerised motion analysis, the current study quantified the 3D residual kinematic deviations or strategies of the shoulder complex bones during multi-plane elevations in fifteen patients with conservatively treated mid-shaft clavicle fractures and fifteen healthy controls. Despite residual clavicular malunion, the patients recovered normal shoulder kinematics for arm elevations up to 60° in all three tested planes. For elevations beyond 60°, normal clavicle kinematics but significantly increased scapular posterior tilt relative to the trunk was observed in the patient group, leading to significantly increased clavicular protraction and posterior tilt relative to the scapula (i.e., AC joint). Slightly different changes were found in the sagittal plane, showing additional changes of increased scapular upward rotations at 90° and 120° elevations. Similar kinematic changes were also found on the unaffected side, indicating a trend of symmetrical bilateral adaptation. The current results suggest that shoulder kinematics in multi-plane arm elevations should be monitored for any compromised integrated motions of the individual bones following conservative treatment. Rehabilitation strategies, including muscle strengthening and synergy stability training, should also consider compensatory kinematic changes on the unaffected side to improve the bilateral movement control of the shoulder complex during humeral elevation.
Laser fragmentation of amorphous and crystalline selenium of various morphologies and assessment of their antioxidant and protection properties
Authors: Simakin Alexander V. , Baimler Ilya V. , Dikovskaya Anastasia O. , Kazantseva Dina V. , Yanykin Denis V. , Voronov Valery V. , Uvarov Oleg V. , Astashev Maxim E. , Sarimov Ruslan M. , Ivanov Vladimir E. , Bruskov Vadim I. , Kozlov Valeriy A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The process of laser-induced breakdown of amorphous and crystalline selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) of various shapes during nanosecond laser fragmentation of aqueous colloidal solutions of nanoparticles with different concentrations has been studied.

Methods: The methods of studying the characteristics of plasma and acoustic oscillations induced by optical breakdown are applied. The methods of assessing the concentration of hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals, the amount of long-lived reactive species of protein and 8-oxoguanine are applied.

Results: It has been established that in the process of laser fragmentation of selenium nanoparticles at a wavelength of 532 nm, corresponding to the maximum absorption of selenium, the highest probability of breakdown, the number of plasma flashes, their luminosity and the amplitude of acoustic signals are achieved at concentrations of the order of 109 NPs/mL. It has been shown that the use of selenium nanoparticles of various shapes and structures leads to a change in the photoacoustic signal during laser-induced breakdown. When crystalline selenium nanoparticles are irradiated, the intensity of the photoacoustic response during breakdown turns out to be greater (1.5 times for flash luminosity and 3 times for acoustics) than when amorphous particles are irradiated at the same concentration. It has been shown that selenium nanoparticles exhibit significant antioxidant properties. Selenium nanoparticles effectively prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during water radiolysis, eliminate radiation-induced long-lived reactive species of protein, and reduce the radiation-chemical yield of a key marker of oxidative DNA damage - 8-oxoguanine.

Discussion: In general, the intensity of processes occurring during laser fragmentation of amorphous and crystalline selenium nanoparticles differs significantly. The antioxidant properties are more pronounced in amorphous selenium nanoparticles compared to crystalline selenium nanoparticles.
Rethinking and formalizing initial teacher training on learning design for and in uncertainty
Authors: Capolla Lorenza Maria , Giannandrea Lorella , Gratani Francesca , Pentucci Maila , Rossi Pier Giuseppe
Published: August 2024

The paper analyzes the impact of uncertainty on teaching and proposes a method to rethink learning design and teaching action management and to renew future teachers’ training paths. Specifically, the research focuses on how learning design can help future teachers deal with the unexpected. We propose design strategies, including modularity, anticipation, hierarchy, redundancy, and deviation formalized in the “Design for the Unexpected in Education” (DUE) method, and we present the results of research conducted on initial teacher education at the University of Macerata. The data analysis of future teachers’ learning designs and post-action reflections shows meaningful changes. In fact, after specific training and introducing the DUE method, future teachers can deal more confidently with the unexpected and achieve planned goals. Future teachers also refer that anxiety is reduced through prior discussion of uncertainty and available regulation strategies.
The impact of technology-based and non-technology-based vocabulary learning activities on the pushed output vocabulary learning of Saudi EFL learners
Authors: Albaqami Saad Eid
Published: August 2024

The output hypothesis, proposed by Swain, plays a crucial role in language learning. It emphasizes the importance of learners’ production (output) alongside comprehensible input. Pushed output, which reflects the accurate and concise language use of learners, has gained popularity in classrooms. Simultaneously, integrating technology into teaching has become important. However, research on how technology and pushed output impact vocabulary learning remains limited. This study examines the effects of three scenarios—pushed email, a pushed class, and a non-pushed class—on vocabulary development. ‘Within-subject design’ means each participant in the study experienced these three scenarios in a different order. Data was collected using diverse approaches. Productivity and vocabulary knowledge ratings were used to answer the set research questions. A total of 54 third-year adult Saudi EFL students at Albaha University participated. The participants were taught with no pushed output, with pushed output, and with email-pushed output in three groups, in three contexts, and using three target lexical item sets. In the productive and Vocabulary Knowledge Scales (VKS) tests, learners who completed vocabulary learning with pushed output performed better in the short and long terms. The email and pushed output outside class scenarios had a greater effect than in class. The findings urge further research into long-term technology-enhanced vocabulary learning exercises for speaking skills utilising the pushed output technique. Such studies could expand the sample and compare findings across Middle Eastern nations.
Studying the risk spillover effects of the carbon market and high-carbon-emission industries under economic uncertainty
Authors: Han Jiatong , Sun Qing , Jiang Yanbo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we select the China Carbon Market Price Index, which reflects the overall price changes in China’s carbon market (CCM), and employs the TVP-VAR-BK model to examine the risk spillover effects between the carbon market and high-carbon-emission industries in China from a frequency domain viewpoint. Employing the nonparametric quantile Granger causality test, it delves further into the effects of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) in China on the degree of risk spillovers between the carbon market and high-carbon-emission industries. There are significant risk spillover effects between the carbon market and high-carbon-emission industries. During the short term, the carbon market affects the cement industry more than the electric power and steel industries. However, the carbon market is affected by the volatility of the high-carbon-emission industries over the long term. In addition, the effect of EPU on the magnitude of risk spillovers between the carbon market and high-carbon-emission industries is nonsignificant at extreme quartiles and significant at the middle quartile level, which is typically asymmetric.
Molecular and physiological responses of two quinoa genotypes to drought stress
Authors: Zhu Xiaolin , Liu Wenyu , Wang Baoqiang , Yang Ling
Published: August 2024

Quinoa is an important economic food crop. However, quinoa seedlings are susceptible to drought stress, and the molecular mechanism of drought tolerance remains unclear. In this study, we compared transcriptomic and physiological analyses of drought-tolerant (L1) and susceptible (HZ1) genotypes exposed to 20% PEG for 3 and 9 days at seedling stage. Compared with HZ1, drought stress had less damage to photosynthetic system, and the contents of SOD, POD and CAT were higher and the contents of H2O2 and O2−were lower in L1 leaves. Based on the RNA-seq method, we identified 2423, 11856, 1138 and 3903 (HZ1-C3-VS-T3, HZ1-C9-vs-T9, L1-C3-vs-T3 and L1-C9-vs-T9) annotated DEGs. Go enrichment was shown in terms of Biological Process: DEGs involved in biological processes such as metabolic process, cellular process, and single-organism process were most abundant in all four comparison treatments. In Molecular Function: the molecular functions of catalytic activity, binding and transporter activity have the most DEGs in all four processes. Cellular Component: membrane, membrane part, and cell have the most DEGs in each of the four processes. These DEGs include AP2/ERF, MYB, bHLH, b-ZIP, WRKY, HD-ZIP, NAC, C3h and MADS, which encode transcription factors. In addition, the MAPK pathway, starch and sucrose metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and plant hormone signal transduction were significantly induced under drought stress, among them, G-hydrolases-66, G-hydrolases-81, G-hydrolases-78, Su-synthase-02, Su-synthase-04, Su-synthase-06, BRI1-20 and bHLH17 were all downregulated at two drought stress points in two genotypes, PP2C01, PP2C03, PP2C05-PP2C07, PP2C10, F-box01 and F-box02 were upregulated at two drought stress points in two genotypes. These results agree with the physiological responses and RNA-seq results. Collectively, these findings may lead to a better understanding of drought tolerance, and some of the important DEGs detected in this study could be targeted for future research. And our results will provide a comprehensive basis for the molecular network that mediates drought tolerance in quinoa seedlings and promote the breeding of drought-resistant quinoa varieties.
Deciphering the mediating role of CXCL10 in hypothyroidism-induced idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in European ancestry: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xing Xiaoming , Zhao Cong , Cai Song , Wang Jing , Zhang Jing , Sun Fang , Huang Mao , Zhang Lishan
Published: August 2024

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lethal lung disease characterized by progressive fibrosis, leading to impaired gas exchange and high mortality. The etiology of IPF is complex, with potential links to autoimmune disorders such as hypothyroidism. This study explores the relationship between hypothyroidism and IPF, focusing on the mediating role of plasma proteins.

Methods

A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was employed to determine the impact of hypothyroidism on IPF and the mediating role of 4,907 plasma proteins, all in individuals of European ancestry. Sensitivity analyses, external validation, and reverse causality tests were conducted to ensure the robustness of the findings. Additionally, the function of causal SNPs was evaluated through gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that hypothyroidism, through altered plasma protein expression, particularly CXCL10, may contribute to the pathogenesis of IPF. This novel insight highlights the potential of CXCL10 as a therapeutic target in IPF, especially in patients with hypothyroidism. The study emphasizes the need for further research into the complex interplay between autoimmune disorders and IPF, with a view towards developing targeted interventions for IPF management.
Next-generation sequencing reveals additional HLA class I and class II alleles associated with type 1 diabetes and age at onset
Authors: Robino Antonietta , Bevilacqua Elena , Aldegheri Luana , Conti Andrea , Bazzo Valentina , Tornese Gianluca , Catamo Eulalia
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease with an significant genetic component, played mainly by the HLA class II genes. Although evidence on the role of HLA class I genes in developing type 1 diabetes and its onset have emerged, current HLA screening is limited to determining DR3 and DR4 haplotypes. This study aimed to investigate the role of HLA genes on type 1 diabetes risk and age of onset by extensive typing.

Methods

This study included 115 children and young adults with type 1 diabetes for whom typing of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DRB3/4/5, -DQA1, -DQB1, -DPA1 and -DPB1 genes was conducted using Next Generation Sequencing.

Results

We observed that 13% of type 1 diabetes subjects had non-classical HLA haplotypes that predispose to diabetes. We also found that compared to type 1 diabetes subjects with classical HLA haplotypes, non-classical HLA subjects had a significantly higher frequency of HLA-B*39:06:02 (p-value=0.01) and HLA-C*07:02:01 (p-value=0.03) alleles, known to be involved in activating the immune response. Non-classical HLA subjects also presented peculiar clinical features compared to classical HLA subjects, such as multiple diabetic antibodies and the absence of other autoimmune diseases (i.e., coeliac disease and thyroiditis). We also observed that subjects with early onset had a higher frequency of DQ2/DQ8 genotype than late-onset individuals. Moreover, subjects with late-onset had a higher frequency of alleles HLA-B*27 (p-value=0.003), HLA-C*01:02:01 (p-value=0.027) and C*02:02:02 (p-value=0.01), known to be associated with increased protection against viral infections.

Discussion

This study reveals a broader involvement of the HLA locus in the development and onset of type 1 diabetes, providing insights into new possible disease prevention and management strategies.
Effects of sunscreen exposure on Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile under a perspective of increased seawater temperature scenario
Authors: García-Márquez Manuela Gertrudis , Muñoz Entrena Sandra , Clément Cassandra , Agawin Nona S. R.
Published: August 2024

The environmental risk of coastal sunscreen pollution and ocean warming to seagrass meadows seems to be greatly intensified in the Mediterranean basin, due to its semi-enclosed nature that limits water renewal and the high influx of tourists it receives every year. Both stress factors could be interacting synergistically, thus, contributing to the current decline of Posidonia oceanica meadows. Our study aimed to determine the response of P. oceanica to the combined effects of elevated seawater temperature and sunscreen addition in a short-term laboratory experiment, testing an environmentally relevant sunscreen concentration in Mallorca, Spain (20 mg L-1) and a control (0 mg L-1) with the ambient temperature in spring (15°C) and a worst-case scenario of estimated temperature increase by 2100 (ambient + 5°C). Sunscreen addition promoted net primary production rates in the seagrass under ambient temperature, possibly due to nutrient enrichment from the mixture. Alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) in young leaves was enhanced under increased temperature only. Early-warning signs of the impacts of combined elevated temperature with sunscreen exposure in P. oceanica were the drastic decrease in leaf chlorophyll concentrations and inhibition of the nitrogen fixation associated with rhizomes (more than 50%), along with greater oxidative stress biomarkers in leaves (i.e., catalase activity and polyphenols content) and APA in roots (4-fold increase). The current investigation has revealed how the negative effects of coastal sunscreen pollution in this seagrass species may be exacerbated under climate change factors, such as ocean warming, with possible implications in the nutrient cycling and photosynthetic process of the plant. Investigations focused on determining the impacts of these contaminants in P. oceanica meadows and their interaction with additional stress factors in the environment is of great relevance for the future management of this declining ecosystem.
Lumpfish physiological response to chronic stress
Authors: Lopes Tiago da Santa , Costas Benjamin , Ramos-Pinto Lourenço , Reynolds Patrick , Imsland Albert K. D. , Aragão Cláudia , Fernandes Jorge M. O.
Published: August 2024

In this study, we explored the effects of chronic stress on lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) physiological, immune response, health, and plasma free amino acids. 3 groups of lumpfish were exposed to 1-minute air exposure. 1 group was exposed to stress once per week, a second group exposed 2 times per week, and a third group exposed 4 times per week. The present study revealed significant alterations in immunity and increased nutritional demands, particularly the branched chain amino acids and lysine. Cortisol levels fluctuated, with significantly higher levels halfway through the experiment on the groups that were stressed more often. Though, by the end of the experiment, there were no significant differences in cortisol levels between groups. Regardless of stress exposure, cataract developed in virtually all sampled fish, pointing toward a potential dietary imbalance. A transient immunomodulation of stress was visible. While in early stages stress had an immune enhancing effect, as seen by the increase in plasma nitric oxide and peroxidase in the group most frequently exposed to stress, these differences were not apparent by the end of the experiment. Additionally, the worst health condition was found in this group. Our results underscore the complex interplay between stress, immunity and nutrition, highlighting the need for tailored dietary strategies and improved rearing practices.
Unique skin microbiome: insights to understanding bacterial symbionts in octopuses
Authors: Bennice Chelsea O. , Krausfeldt Lauren E. , Brooks W. Randy , Lopez Jose V.
Published: August 2024

Microbial communities play a crucial role in the physiology of animal hosts; however, little is known about bacterial symbionts with the group cephalopods, specifically octopuses, and the function of these symbionts. The goal of this study was to determine if octopuses have a unique skin microbiome. The skin microbiome of two sympatric octopuses (Octopus vulgaris and Macrotritopus defilippi) was compared with the surrounding environment, sediment and seawater, to determine if octopus have a unique skin microbiome. High throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene (V3-V4 region) amplicons was performed using an Illumina MiSeq. Sediment showed the greatest alpha diversity followed by octopus then seawater. Beta diversity revealed a difference in microbial composition between the octopus skin microbiome and sediment and seawater. While phylum Bacteroidetes appeared rare in environmental samples, it was most abundant for the octopus skin microbiome with the majority of the bacteria comprising the family Flavobacteriaceae. Proteobacteria, the largest group of bacteria, also constituted the octopus skin microbiome. Many of these groups occur on both octopus species; however, certain taxa differed in relative abundance between octopus species and may show species-specific host selection. Several bacteria that were identified for the octopus skin microbiome have been isolated from other marine animal hosts, identified as biodegraders and/or produce pigments and squalene, or act as predators of other bacteria. These groups may play a role in defense against environmental stressors or pathogenic bacteria. This is the first study to characterize the skin microbiome in two wild sympatric octopuses. Due to the importance of bacterial symbionts, this can provide insight to the physiology, behavior, ecology, and ultimately the health of these important animals in marine environments as well as care in captive or laboratory settings.
Study on the modification effect and mechanism of composite solid waste and steel fiber on the mechanical properties of concrete
Authors: Zhao Qingming , Chen Li , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Shengru , Li Fan
Published: August 2024

To promote the use of solid waste in concrete production and solve the problem of secondary pollution caused by a large amount of solid waste, the four-factor and four-level orthogonal test method was used to investigate the different replacement rates of coal gangue (CG) ceramics (15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%), coal gangue ceramic sand (CGS) (10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%), fly ash (FA) (10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%), and steel fiber (SF) content (0.30%, 0.60%, 0.90%, and 1.2). By using range analysis, variance analysis, matrix analysis, and regression analysis, the prediction models of primary and secondary factors, optimal dosage, and strength under different factor levels were obtained. The microstructure and strengthening mechanisms of different materials were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the optimal combination of the CG substitution rate is 30%, CGS substitution rate is 15%, SF content is 1.2%, and FA substitution rate is 10% for cube compressive strength. For the splitting tensile strength, the optimal combination is a CG substitution rate of 30%, CGS substitution rate of 25%, SF content of 1.2%, and FA substitution rate of 10%. The resulting strength prediction model has high accuracy, which can predict the strength within the range selected by the orthogonal test in this paper and provide a reference for the application of steel fibers and solid waste in concrete, which contributes to the energy conservation and emission reduction in the construction industry.
Clinical efficacy and safety of secukinumab in the treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis in the pediatric population: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Wei Kebo , Li Ping , He Xin , Yang Dongyue , Lang Jing , Lai Lingyao , Xiao Min
Published: August 2024

Background

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a severe type of psoriasis. The current treatment primarily relies on corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. In recent years, biologics have been increasingly utilized in the treatment of this disease, and have demonstrated good clinical efficacy. However, children and adolescents are primarily treated with immunosuppressants, which have limited clinical application due to the serious side effects they may cause. At the same time, the effectiveness of current treatments is unsatisfactory. Secukinumab has been widely reported to be effective and safe in treating this disease. However, there are still insufficient data on its use in treating GPP in children.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review of the existing literature on the use of secukinumab for treating generalized pustular psoriasis in children and adolescents, and to evaluate its clinical effectiveness and safety.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of all the literature reporting on the treatment of GPP in children and adolescents with secukinumab.

Results

A total of 7 papers (46 patients) were included in this study. After 12 weeks of treatment, all 46 participants were able to achieve a GPPASI score of 90 or higher, with approximately 96% of patients achieving complete clearing of the lesions (GPPASI 100 or JDA0). Adverse events were reported in 8 patients, the rate of adverse reactions was approximately 17%.

Conclusion

The treatment of GPP in children and adolescents with secukinumab has a rapid onset of action and a high safety profile. However, the results of the literature may be influenced by publication bias.
Preoperative bimodal imaging evaluation in finding histological correlations of in situ, superficial spreading and nodular melanoma
Authors: Negrutiu Mircea , Danescu Sorina , Popa Theodor , Rogojan Liliana , Vesa Stefan Cristian , Baican Adrian
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to correlate the diagnostic criteria described in dermoscopy, ultrasonography (US), and histology of the most common types of cutaneous melanoma (CM).

Methods

We conducted a prospective study including 40 CM cases, which were analyzed by dermoscopy using the Delta 30 dermatoscope and Vidix 4.0 videodermoscope, by ultrasound (US) using a high-resolution 20 MHz linear probe, along with histopathological analysis.

Results

The study involved 40 patients with histopathologically confirmed CM, comprising 10 nodular melanomas (NM), 21 superficial spreading melanomas (SSM), and nine in situ melanomas (MIS). US measurements of tumor thickness exhibited strong correlations with the histopathological Breslow index (BI), particularly in the NM and SSM groups. A notable correlation was observed between the presence of ulceration in histopathology and ultrasonography. Dermoscopic analysis revealed significant associations between specific features and CM types. For instance, the presence of an atypical network, irregular globules, irregular dots, prominent skin margins, angulated lines/polygons, dotted and short linear vessels, and negative network correlated with a median BI ≤ 0.5 mm. Conversely, the presence of blue–white veil, atypical vessels, blue–black color, and milky red color were associated with a median BI ≥ 2.3 mm. Furthermore, regression observed in histopathology correlated with regression identified in dermoscopy, we also found statistical correlations between the presence of vascularization at US with the high Clark level, and the presence of prominent skin markings at dermoscopy. The presence of histopathological regression was more frequently associated with tumors that had precise margins, absent vascularization and with those that did not have ulceration on US. The high mitotic rate was associated with tumors that presented imprecise margins, increased vascularization and US detectable ulceration.

Conclusion

Innovative CM diagnosis using non-invasive methods like dermoscopy and ultrasound may enhance accuracy and treatment guidance by assessing lesion characteristics.
Maternal puerperal infection caused by Parabacteroides goldsteinii: a case report
Authors: Peng Liwei , Chen Xiaomin , Wang Zhenhui , Yi Lu , Jin Zhengjiang
Published: August 2024

Background

Parabacteroides goldsteinii, a member of the Parabacteroides genus, was initially discovered in the feces and abdominal tissue of patients with appendicitis, peritonitis, and abdominal abscesses. In recent years, P. goldsteinii has been widely regarded as a gut probiotic, and human infections have been extremely rare. In 2010, P. goldsteinii was first isolated from the blood culture of a patient with abdominal infection, confirming its ability to cause bacteremia. In this study, we report a rare case of puerperal infection with septic shock caused by P. goldsteinii infection in a pregnant woman.

Case presentation

A 31-year-old female experienced perineal lacerations, cervical lacerations, and postpartum hemorrhage during childbirth. Nine days postpartum, the patient developed septic shock, and P. goldsteinii infection was identified through blood culture and mass spectrometry. We administered broad-spectrum antibiotics, including meropenem/nalidixic acid and piperacillin tazobactam, intravenously, but the antimicrobial effect was not satisfactory. Upon ultrasound examination, we identified a focus of infection in the patient’s uterus. Subsequently, uterine curettage was performed, followed by uterine cavity irrigation with metronidazole and intramuscular injection of gentamicin and dexamethasone. Following treatment, the patient’s physiological parameters gradually returned to normal, and she was discharged 30 days after admission.

Conclusion

Parabacteroides goldsteinii bacteraemia is extremely rare, and clinically, the postinfection toxicity of this bacterium appears to be significant. In this report, we review the research history of P. goldsteinii and relevant infection cases, aiming to enhance awareness among clinical practitioners, particularly obstetricians and gynecologists, regarding P. goldsteinii bloodstream infections, facilitating early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Modeling APOE ε4 familial Alzheimer’s disease in directly converted 3D brain organoids
Authors: Kim Yunkyung , Kim Hongwon , Cho Byounggook , An Saemin , Kang Soi , Kim Sumin , Kim Jongpil
Published: August 2024

Brain organoids have become a valuable tool for studying human brain development, disease modeling, and drug testing. However, generating brain organoids with mature neurons is time-intensive and often incomplete, limiting their utility in studying age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we report the generation of 3D brain organoids from human fibroblasts through direct reprogramming, with simplicity, efficiency, and reduced variability. We also demonstrate that induced brain organoids from APOE ε4 AD patient fibroblasts capture some disease-specific features and pathologies associated with APOE ε4 AD. Moreover, APOE ε4-induced brain organoids with mutant APP overexpression faithfully recapitulate the acceleration of AD-related pathologies, providing a more physiologically relevant and patient-specific model of familial AD. Importantly, transcriptome analysis reveals that gene sets specific to APOE ε4 patient-induced brain organoids are highly similar to those of APOE ε4 post-mortem AD brains. Overall, induced brain organoids from direct reprogramming offer a promising approach for more efficient and controlled studies of neurodegenerative disease modeling.
How synaptic function controls critical transitions in spiking neuron networks: insight from a Kuramoto model reduction
Authors: Smirnov Lev A. , Munyayev Vyacheslav O. , Bolotov Maxim I. , Osipov Grigory V. , Belykh Igor
Published: August 2024

The dynamics of synaptic interactions within spiking neuron networks play a fundamental role in shaping emergent collective behavior. This paper studies a finite-size network of quadratic integrate-and-fire neurons interconnected via a general synaptic function that accounts for synaptic dynamics and time delays. Through asymptotic analysis, we transform this integrate-and-fire network into the Kuramoto-Sakaguchi model, whose parameters are explicitly expressed via synaptic function characteristics. This reduction yields analytical conditions on synaptic activation rates and time delays determining whether the synaptic coupling is attractive or repulsive. Our analysis reveals alternating stability regions for synchronous and partially synchronous firing, dependent on slow synaptic activation and time delay. We also demonstrate that the reduced microscopic model predicts the emergence of synchronization, weakly stable cyclops states, and non-stationary regimes remarkably well in the original integrate-and-fire network and its theta neuron counterpart. Our reduction approach promises to open the door to rigorous analysis of rhythmogenesis in networks with synaptic adaptation and plasticity.
Stem cell therapy: a new hope for stroke and traumatic brain injury recovery and the challenge for rural minorities in South Carolina
Authors: Mohamed Ghada A. , Lench Daniel H. , Grewal Parneet , Rosenberg Mark , Voeks Jenifer
Published: August 2024

Stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are a significant cause of death and disability nationwide. Both are considered public health concerns in rural communities in the state of South Carolina (SC), particularly affecting the African American population resulting in considerable morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Stem cell therapy (SCT) has emerged as a potential intervention for both diseases with increasing research trials showing promising results. In this perspective article, the authors aim to discuss the current research in the field of SCT, the results of early phase trials, and the utilization of outcome measures and biomarkers of recovery. We searched PubMed from inception to December 2023 for articles on stem cell therapy in stroke and traumatic brain injury and its impact on rural communities, particularly in SC. Early phase trials of SCT in Stroke and Traumatic Brain injury yield promising safety profile and efficacy results, but the findings have not yet been consistently replicated. Early trials using mesenchymal stem cells for stroke survivors showed safety, feasibility, and improved functional outcomes using broad and domain-specific outcome measures. Neuroimaging markers of recovery such as Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) combined with neuromodulation, although not widely used in SCT research, could represent a breakthrough when evaluating brain injury and its functional consequences. This article highlights the role of SCT as a promising intervention while addressing the underlying social determinants of health that affect therapeutic outcomes in relation to rural communities such as SC. It also addresses the challenges ethical concerns of stem cell sourcing, the high cost of autologous cell therapies, and the technical difficulties in ensuring transplanted cell survival and strategies to overcome barriers to clinical trial enrollment such as the ethical concerns of stem cell sourcing, the high cost of autologous cell therapies, and the technical difficulties in ensuring transplanted cell survival and equitable healthcare.