bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Ukuran Perusahaan dan Struktur Kepemilikan terhadap Pengungkapan CSR dengan Ukuran Dewan Komisaris sebagai Pemoderasi
Authors: Hasanah Indah Uswatun , Nurmawati Binar Arum
Published: December 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan bukti empiris bahwa ukuran perusahaan dan struktur kepemilikan perusahaan yang dimoderasi oleh ukuran dewan komisaris berpengaruh terhadap pengungkapan corporate social responsibility. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif. Objek penelitian ini adalah perusahaan sektor pertambangan yang terdatar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2019 – 2021. Pemilihan sampel dilakukan dengan metode purposive sampling, sehingga diperoleh 20 perusahaan yang memenuhi kriteria dengan 3 tahun pengamatan. Data yang digunakan berupa data sekunder yang berasal dari laporan tahunan perusahaan, sedangkan teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis statistik deskriptif dan uji data menggunakan SmartPLS 3.00. Berdasarkan hasil uji hipotesis, penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa variabel ukuran perusahaan, kepemilikan institusional, kepemilikan manajerial dan kepemilikan asing tidak berpengaruh terhadap pengungkapan corporate social responsibility. Selain itu ukuran dewan komisaris tidak mampu memoderasi ukuran perusahaan, kepemilikan institusional, kepemilikan manajerial dan kepemilikan asing terhadap pengungkapan corporate social responsibility.
Peranan Teknologi Informasi Dalam Efektivitas Sistem Pengendalian Intern Koperasi Bina Citra Wanita
Authors: Majidah Shinta , Pratiwi Yana , Lastiani Siwidyah
Published: December 2023

This study aims to analyze the effect of the use of information technology on the effectiveness of the internal control system in the Bina Citra Women's Cooperative in Menganti Gresik. The research method used is qualitative, involving cooperative heads, cooperative treasurers, and cooperative members as informants. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews with cooperative members and management, direct observation of activities in cooperatives, and study of documents such as cooperative SOPs, financial reports, and information technology usage policies. The results of the study show that cooperative members have a positive perception of the influence of the use of information technology in increasing the effectiveness of the cooperative's internal control system. Information technology helps in prioritizing customer service, preventing fraud, and reducing the risk of fraud
Pengaruh DER, TATO, dan Firm Size terhadap ROA pada PT Elnusa Tbk Periode 2011 - 2021
Authors: Dewi Iriana Kusuma , Budhiarjo Intan Sari
Published: December 2023

The aim of the research is to determine and analyze the influence of Debt to Equity Ratio (DER), Total Asset Turnover (TATO) and Firm Size on Return on Assets (ROA) at PT Elnusa Tbk for the 2011-2021 period. The population in this research is all financial reports of PT Elnusa Tbk, while the sample used is the profit/loss report and consolidated financial position of PT Elnusa Tbk for the 2011-2021 period. The research results obtained an Fcount value of 67.357 > Ftable 4.35, which means that DER, TATO and Firm Size simultaneously had a significant effect on ROA at PT Elnusa, while partially DER on ROA was obtained tcount -4.201 > ttable 2.30600 which means DER has a significant effect on ROA. TATO on ROA obtained tcount 8.873 > ttable 2.30600 where ROA has a significant effect on ROA while Firm Size on ROA obtained tcount -1.114 < ttable 2.30600 where Firm Size does not have a significant effect on ROA. The conclusion obtained based on research is that partially DER on ROA has a significant influence because the capital owned by the company can cover debts from external parties, as well as TATO on ROA which has a significant influence, which means that management is able to manage all investments to generate sales, etc. This is the case with Firm Size on ROA which does not have a significant effect, this is because Firm Size only looks at how big the company is in producing products.

Abstrak 

Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis pengaruh Debt to Equity Ratio (DER), Total Asset Turnover (TATO) dan Firm Size Terhadap Return on Asset (ROA) pada PT Elnusa Tbk Periode Tahun 2011-2021. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh laporan keuangan PT Elnusa Tbk, sedangkan sampel yang digunakan adalah laporan laba/rugi dan posisi keuangan konsolidasian PT Elnusa Tbk periode 2011-2021. Hasil penelitian diperoleh nilai Fhitung 67,357 > Ftabel  4,35 yang artinya DER, TATO dan Firm Size secara simultan berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROA pada PT Elnusa, sedangkan secara parsial DER terhadap ROA diperoleh thitung -4,201 > ttabel 2,30600 yang artinya DER berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROA. TATO terhadap ROA diperoleh thitung 8,873 > ttabel 2,30600 dimana ROA berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROA sedangkan Firm Size terhadap ROA diperoleh thitung -1,114 < ttabel 2,30600 di mana Firm Size tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap ROA. Simpulan yang diperoleh berdasarkan penelitian yakni secara parsial DER terhadap ROA mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan dikarenakan modal yang dimiliki perusahaan dapat menutupi hutang-hutang dari pihak luar, begitu juga dengan TATO terhadap ROA yang berpengaruh signifikan yang artinya manajemen mampu mengelola seluruh investasi guna menghasilkan penjualan, lain halnya dengan Firm Size terhadap ROA yang tidak berpengaruh signifikan, hal ini dikarenakan Firm Size hanya melihat seberapa besar ukuran perusahaan dalam menghasilkan produk.  

Kata Kunci: DER, TATO, Firm Size, ROA
Influence of Work-Family Conflict, Workload, and Work Pressure as Mediating Variables on the Performance of Female Employees
Authors: Linda Arnova , Rino Rino
Published: December 2023

Purpose – The main purpose of this study was to assess how Work-Family conflict, workload, and work stress function as mediating factors influencing the performance of female employees at BPS (Central Bureau of Statistics) in the West Sumatra Province. 
Methodology – This quantitative investigation was conducted using a survey approach, with the sample consisting of 188 married or formerly married female employees out of a total of 128 participants. A questionnaire was used as an instrument which was designed using Google form and consisted of 58 questions. Furthermore, the sampling was carried out using Cluster Sampling, with districts/cities serving as the clusters. Descriptive statistical and Partial Least Square (PLS) analyses were adopted for the data analysis process using the Smart PLS 3.2.3 program.
Findings – The results showed that workload and Work-Family conflict had a positive influence on both work pressure and the performance of female employees. Meanwhile, Work-Family conflict and work pressure negatively influenced the performance of female employees. A negative influence was also observed on the performance of women employees due to Work-Family conflict, mediated through work pressure.
Originality – This research investigated the influence of Work-Family conflict and workload on the performance of women employees, mediated by job pressure.
CONCEITO DE RAZÃO DE ESTADO NO LIMIAR DO RENASCIMENTO TARDIO
Authors: Cardoso Marco Aurélio
Published: December 2023

A proposta deste artigo é apresentar o conceito de razão de Estado na literatura humanista renascentista italiana, tendo como propósito compreender o processo pelo qual as contribuições dos teóricos clássicos da razão de Estado, mais precisamente os italianos Nicolau Maquiavel e Giovanni Botero e o francês Gabriel Naudé, operam uma ruptura no âmbito da política e da ética na análise do fenômeno político com base na experiência imediata, entendendo-o como um estudo dos conflitos entre Estados pelo poder. Com base nas lições da história e do próprio contexto em que viveram, os referidos pensadores, de vertente realista, observaram o que realmente existiu na sociedade daquele período histórico e viram que os homens não possuem uma tendência para a paz, mas para o conflito, uma vez que entram em desacordos uns com os outros para que possam prosperar rumo ao poder. É essa força motora do processo político, o impulso das maiores disputas entre os homens no início da Modernidade, portanto, que levaram estes pensadores a pensarem como que se dá a conquista e manutenção do poder político.
Why is managerial shared leadership in creative organizations a more resilient, transparent, open, and generous constellation? A case analysis approach
Authors: Bonet Lluis , Rykkja Anders
Published: December 2023

Leadership models in the cultural and creative sectors are frequently based on collective, shared, or distributed structures. In recent decades, research on these plural forms has yielded insights in the form of typological models and empirical studies. This article seeks to examine two issues in the literature on plural leadership that have received insufficient attention. The first is how cultural organizations combine and integrate multiple leadership models. The use of horizontal co-leadership at the macro (organisational) level alongside either vertical or horizontal leadership of embedded projects managed by teams is one example. Little is known about how the existence of distinct leadership styles at the macro and meso levels influences the career paths of individuals and organizations. The second is an inquiry into the evolution of leadership models in cultural organizations over time. This is especially important when an organisation transitions from a startup to a successful enterprise and expands its operations internationally. To empirically investigate these issues, we propose a single case study of Snøhetta, a multinational architecture firm. The results of this case study allow for a better understanding of how forms of collaborative leadership style can influence the career paths of people and organizations, and how it is possible to find a balance between the paradoxical institutional logic on which management and leadership of creativity is based. In other words, how the constellations of relationships that are generated make organizations with this leadership style more resilient and sustainable by virtue of being more transparent, open, and generous.
Evaluation of the in vitro antioxidant and antitumor activity of hydroalcoholic extract from Jatropha mollissima leaves in Wistar rats
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Omer , Gu Yuchao , Khan Imran Ahmad , Wang Ruihong , Chen Jin
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Despite modern sciences and advancements in new drugs or chemicals, the new era now rushes natural remedies for various illnesses and diseases that lead to end organ damage. In this study, we investigated Jatropha mollissima ethanolic extract’s effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and renal toxicity.

Methods: To determine phytochemicals, a phytochemical screening was conducted. Various assays were used to measure the antioxidant activity, including the DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl), SOD (superoxide dismutase), NO (nitric oxide), and others. The antiproliferative effect of Jm was assessed by MTT assay; morphological analysis was performed using an inverted and phase contrast microscope, ultra morphological analysis of apoptosis with acridine orange (AO)/propidium iodide (PI) staining.

Results: It was seen that doxorubicin caused elevated serum markers and abnormal changes in histological patterns. The significant reduction in cardiac and renal marker levels seen in groups given either 400 or 600 mg/kg of crude extract demonstrates that Jm has a protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity due to the presence of active phytoconstituents having antioxidant potential. There is a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability when using J. mollissima. Apoptosis was observed in the treated cells.

Conclusion: In conclusion, our research lends credence to the idea that J. mollissima could be used for cancer management and have cardioprotective and nephroprotective effects.
Quantifying Rift Valley fever virus transmission efficiency in a lamb-mosquito-lamb model
Authors: Bron Gebbiena M. , Wichgers Schreur Paul J. , de Jong Mart C. M. , van Keulen Lucien , Vloet Rianka P. M. , Koenraadt Constantianus J. M. , Kortekaas Jeroen , ten Bosch Quirine A.
Published: December 2023

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a (re)emerging mosquito-borne pathogen impacting human and animal health. How RVFV spreads through a population depends on population-level and individual-level interactions between vector, host and pathogen. Here, we estimated the probability for RVFV to transmit to naive animals by experimentally exposing lambs to a bite of an infectious mosquito, and assessed if and how RVFV infection subsequently developed in the exposed animal. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, previously infected via feeding on a viremic lamb, were used to expose naive lambs to the virus. Aedes aegypti colony mosquitoes were used as they are easy to maintain and readily feed in captivity. Other mosquito spp. could be examined with similar methodology. Lambs were exposed to either 1-3 (low exposure) or 7-9 (high exposure) infectious mosquitoes. All lambs in the high exposure group became viremic and showed characteristic signs of Rift Valley fever within 2-4 days post exposure. In contrast, 3 out of 12 lambs in the low exposure group developed viremia and disease, with similar peak-levels of viremia as the high exposure group but with some heterogeneity in the onset of viremia. These results suggest that the likelihood for successful infection of a ruminant host is affected by the number of infectious mosquitoes biting, but also highlights that a single bite of an infectious mosquito can result in disease. The per bite mosquito-to-host transmission efficiency was estimated at 28% (95% confidence interval: 15 - 47%). We subsequently combined this transmission efficiency with estimates for life traits of Aedes aegypti or related mosquitoes into a Ross-McDonald mathematical model to illustrate scenarios under which major RVFV outbreaks could occur in naïve populations (i.e., R0 >1). The model revealed that relatively high vector-to-host ratios as well as mosquitoes feeding preferably on competent hosts are required for R0 to exceed 1. Altogether, this study highlights the importance of experiments that mimic natural exposure to RVFV. The experiments facilitate a better understanding of the natural progression of disease and a direct way to obtain epidemiological parameters for mathematical models.
Role of gut microbiota and bacterial translocation in acute intestinal injury and mortality in patients admitted in ICU for septic shock
Authors: Magnan Chloé , Lancry Thomas , Salipante Florian , Trusson Rémi , Dunyach-Remy Catherine , Roger Claire , Lefrant Jean-Yves , Massanet Pablo , Lavigne Jean-Philippe
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction with high mortality rate. The gut origin hypothesis of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome relates to loss of gut barrier function and the ensuing bacterial translocation. The aim of this study was to describe the evolution of gut microbiota in a cohort of septic shock patients over seven days and the potential link between gut microbiota and bacterial translocation.

Methods

Sixty consecutive adult patients hospitalized for septic shock in intensive care units (ICU) were prospectively enrolled. Non-inclusion criteria included patients with recent or scheduled digestive surgery, having taken laxatives, pre- or probiotic in the previous seven days, a progressive digestive neoplasia, digestive lymphoma, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, moribund patient, and pregnant and lactating patients. The primary objective was to evaluate the evolution of bacterial diversity and richness of gut microbiota during seven days in septic shock. Epidemiological, clinical and biological data were gathered over seven days. Gut microbiota was analyzed through a metagenomic approach. 100 healthy controls were selected among healthy blood donors for reference basal 16S rDNA values.

Results

Significantly lower bacterial diversity and richness was observed in gut microbiota of patients at Day 7 compared with Day 0 (p<0.01). SOFA score at Day 0, Acute Gastrointestinal Injury (AGI) local grade, septic shock origin and bacterial translocation had an impact on alpha diversity. A large increase in Enterococcus genus was observed at Day 7 with a decrease in Enterobacterales, Clostridiales, Bifidobacterium and other butyrate-producing bacteria.

Discussion

This study shows the importance of bacterial translocation during AGI in septic shock patients. This bacterial translocation decreases during hospitalization in ICUs in parallel to the decrease of microbiota diversity. This work highlights the role of gut microbiota and bacterial translocation during septic shock.
Metabolic status differentiates Trp53inp2 function in pressure-overload induced heart failure
Authors: Liu Jianfang , Liu Tian , Ren Shuxun (Vincent) , Zhu Cansheng , Bouso Eyad , Mamlouk Samir , Rau Christoph D. , Wang Yibin , Gao Chen
Published: December 2023

Cardiometabolic disorders encompass a broad range of cardiovascular complications associated with metabolic dysfunction. These conditions have an increasing share in the health burden worldwide due to worsening endemic of hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Previous studies have identified Tumor Protein p53-inducible Nuclear Protein 2 (Trp53inp2) as a molecular link between hyperglycemia and cardiac hypertrophy. However, its role in cardiac pathology has never been determined in vivo. In this study, we generated a cardiac specific knockout model of Trp53inp2 (Trp53inp2-cKO) and investigated the impact of Trp53inp2 inactivation on the pathogenesis of heart failure under mechanic or/and metabolic stresses. Based on echocardiography assessment, inactivation of Trp53inp2 in heart led to accelerated onset of HFrEF in response to pressure-overload, with significantly reduced ejection fraction and elevated heart failure marker genes comparing to the control mice. In contrast, inactivation of Trp53inp2 ameliorated cardiac dysfunction induced by combined stresses of high fat diet and moderate pressure overload (Cardiometabolic Disorder Model). Moreover, Trp53inp2 inactivation led to reduced expression of glucose metabolism genes in lean, pressure-overloaded hearts. However, the same set of genes were significantly induced in the Trp53inp2-cKO hearts under both mechanical and metabolic stresses. In summary, we have demonstrated for the first time that cardiomyocyte Trp53inp2 has diametrically differential roles in the pathogenesis of heart failure and glucose regulation under mechanical vs. mechanical plus metabolic stresses. This insight suggests that Trp53inp2 may exacerbate the cardiac dysfunction during pressure overload injury but have a protective effect in cardiac diastolic function in cardiometabolic disease.
Strontium isotope evidence for Pre-Islamic cotton cultivation in Arabia
Authors: Ryan Saskia E. , Douville Eric , Dapoigny Arnaud , Deschamps Pierre , Battesti Vincent , Guihou Abel , Lebon Matthieu , Rohmer Jérôme , Dabrowski Vladimir , Dal Prà Patricia , Nehmé Laïla , Zazzo Antoine , Bouchaud Charlène
Published: December 2023

With a view to understanding the dynamics of ancient trade and agrobiodiversity, archaeobotanical remains provide a means of tracing the trajectories of certain agricultural commodities. A prime example is cotton in Arabia, a plant that is non-native but has been found in raw seed and processed textile form at Hegra and Dadan, in the region of al-ʿUlā, north-western Saudi Arabia—sites of critical importance given their role in the trans-Arabian trading routes during Antiquity. Here, we demonstrate that the measurement of strontium isotopes from pre-cleaned archaeological cotton is methodologically sound and is an informative addition to the study of ancient plant/textile provenance, in this case, putting forward evidence for local production of cotton in oasis agrosystems and possible external supply. The presence of locally-grown cotton at these sites from the late 1st c. BCE–mid 6th c. CE is significant as it demonstrates that cotton cultivation in Arabia was a Pre-Islamic socio-technical feat, while imported cotton highlights the dynamism of trade at that time.
The provenance and persistence of the perennial Río Loa in the Atacama Desert: links between crustal processes and surface hydrology
Authors: Houston John
Published: December 2023

The Río Loa is a perennial river that crosses the Atacama Desert. A basin-wide survey enables for the first time, the hydrologic regime origin, persistence and processes to be identified. Perennial baseflow in the Ríos Loa and Salado largely originates from intra-arc aquifers which are poorly known. However, the data indicate that despite flood flow being largely confined to the summer (DJF) season, sufficient storage exists in these aquifers to maintain year-round stream flow from high-altitude, across the Atacama Desert to the coast. The intra-arc aquifers of the Western Cordillera receive recharge from time-variable precipitation infiltration and time-invariant lithospheric inputs. Lithospheric inputs potentially include slab/mantle dehydration, upper crustal melt devolatilization and/or thermally induced upflow of deeply penetrating meteoric water through buried evaporites or carbonates. Downstream, aquifers in the Pre-Andean basins variably interact with surface water, depending on location, river stage and time of year, but they do not supply significant additional sources of baseflow. Hydrochemical processes include those related to volcanic activity, soil carbonate generation, silicate weathering, CO2 degassing and calcite precipitation. Solutes undergo concentration by evaporation, gypsum dissolution, and are further affected by localized NO3, and SO4 inputs and mixing with saline waters. Stable isotopes reveal subcatchment specific precipitation and evaporation, whilst carbon and tritium isotopes are used to analyze recharge sources and processes in the intra-arc aquifers and downstream mixing.
COVID-19 impact on the assessment methodology of undergraduate medical students: a systematic review of the lessons learned
Authors: Machado Maria Helena , Paredes Sílvia , Ribeiro Laura
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial social, economic, political, and educational impact worldwide. Due to the social contact restrictions, areas such as medical education were highly affected. Assessment in medical education, was already a sensitive topic, and it proved to be even more challenging as different teaching and learning contexts required huge adaptations in a short period. This systematic review provides an overview of the impact of COVID-19 on the assessment of medical students and can serve as a reference to improve this area. We conducted the review based on the PRISMA tool and searched in PubMed, EBSCO, and ScienceDirect. Studies describing the assessment methodologies used during the pandemic were included. Of the 501 initial articles, 18 were included in this review. Collected data was based on the regime, subject, teaching/assessment methodologies, platforms used, grades, students’ and teachers’ perceptions, and measures to prevent academic dishonesty. The results suggest that technology played a central role during the pandemic, and universities were concerned about the transition to online learning regarding teaching and assessment, but students and teachers should be prepared for it. Formative assessment methodologies and feedback were emphasized, and summative tools were adapted to prevent fraud. Students and teachers were generally satisfied with online learning and assessment, which had no significant difference in the examination scores, but they preferred conventional teaching. The COVID-19 pandemic brought an opportunity to analyze and rethink the medical curriculum. Thus, further investigations are needed on combining traditional and online teaching strategies and emphasis on the assessment.
Correlation of renal function indicators and vascular damage in T2DM patients with normal renal function
Authors: Zhang Yue-Yang , Gui Jing , Chen Bing-Xue , Wan Qin
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess the correlation between renal function-related indices and vascular damages among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and normal renal function.

Methods

We screened a cohort of eligible patients with T2DM, ultimately including 826 individuals. Utilizing multifactorial logistic regression, we conducted an in-depth analysis to explore the potential associations between renal function-related indices—specifically BUN, Cr, ALB, ACR, and eGFR—and the incidence of diabetic vascular damage. Additionally, to comprehensively understand the relationships, we employed Spearman correlation analysis to assess the connections between these indicators and the occurrence of vascular damage.

Results

In this cross-sectional study of 532 patients with carotid atherosclerosis (CA), the prevalence of CA was positively correlated with Cr (53.1%, 72.3%, 68.0%, P<0.05) and negatively correlated with eGFR (71.6%, 68.5%, 53.1%, P<0.05). the higher the Cr, the higher the predominance ratio of CA (T1: reference; T2:OR. 2.166,95%CI:1.454,3.225; T3:OR:1.677, 95%CI:1.075, 2.616; P<0.05), along with an eGFR of 66.9% and 52.0% in terms of sensitivity and specificity, with a 95% CI of 0.562-0.644.

Conclusion

Within our experimental sample, a noteworthy observation emerged: Creatinine (Cr) exhibited a positive correlation with the prevalence of individuals affected by carotid atherosclerosis (CA), underscoring a potential connection between Cr levels and CA incidence. Conversely, the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) demonstrated a negative correlation with the occurrence of CA, implying that lower eGFR values might be associated with an increased likelihood of CA development.
Cardiorespiratory fitness as a mediator between body fat rate and executive function in college students
Authors: Zhu Lina , He Aihong , Chen Dandan , Dong Xiaoxiao , Xiong Xuan , Chen Aiguo
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To examine whether body fat rate (BF%) is associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and whether cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) mediates the association between BF% and Executive function (EF) in young adults.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 226 college students were recruited from an university. Flanker, 2-back, and odder and shifting tasks were used to assess EF. The incremental cardiopulmonary exercise tests were performed, and maximal oxygen consumption was recorded during test. The body composition measuring instrument was used to evaluate the participants’ BF%.

Results

The BF% of college students was negatively correlated with each EF, BF% was negatively correlated with CRF, and CRF was negatively correlated with EF (P< 0.001). Structural equation modeling (SEM) and simultaneous analysis of several groups were used to construct mediator model. The CRF of college students plays a partial mediating role between BF% and EF, and the mediating effect accounts for 48.8% of the total effect value. Sex has no moderate effect on the relationship between BF%, CRF, and EF.

Conclusions

College students with high BF% can improve their CRF by strengthening physical exercise, thereby indirectly improving their EF. Therefore, college students who have a higher body fat percentage should be compensated for engaging in physical exercise in order to enhance their CRF and mitigate the detrimental effects of obesity and overweight on EF.
Environmental generalism, holobiont interactions, and Pocilloporid corals in the warming oceans of the eastern coast of Australia
Authors: Bergman Jessica L. , Richards Zoe T. , Sawyers Paige , Ainsworth Tracy D.
Published: December 2023

Ocean warming has been driving mortality events across the world’s coral reef ecosystems and is resulting in multifaceted ecosystem restructuring. With the rapid shifts occurring across ecosystems, questions arise of which species, in which locations, have the capacity to persevere under climate change. Environmental generalism refers to species with the biological traits that support environmental flexibility, enabling the organism to occupy a broad range of environmental conditions. Some Scleractinia have been categorised as environmental generalists and proposed as likely winners under changing climate conditions, as environmental generalists have been considered less susceptible to environmental disturbance than specialist species. Given the complexity of the holobiont structure of corals, which includes photoendosymbiosis and diverse microbial consortia, understanding the complexity of the coral holobiont–environment interaction for the generalist corals will be an important factor in accurately predicting the success of these species into the future. Here we conduct a literature search to compile topics and concepts of environmental generalism for Australia’s warming coral reef ecosystems and the breadth of holobiont responses to ecosystem restructuring. We synthesise these findings in the context of the latitudinal expanse of Australia’s coral reefs to highlight how it is necessary to understand the biological underpinnings of generalist corals.
Whole exome sequencing reveals genetic landscape associated with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in Chinese Han population
Authors: Geng Zilong , Li Wenjuan , Yang Ping , Zhang Shasha , Wu Shuo , Xiong Junhao , Sun Kun , Zhu Dan , Chen Sun , Zhang Bing
Published: December 2023

Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO), a major form of outflow tract malformation, accounts for a substantial portion of congenital heart defects (CHDs). Unlike its prevalence, the genetic architecture of LVOTO remains largely unknown. To unveil the genetic mutations and risk genes potentially associated with LVOTO, we enrolled a cohort of 106 LVOTO patients and 100 healthy controls and performed a whole-exome sequencing (WES). 71,430 rare deleterious mutations were found in LVOTO patients. By using gene-based burden testing, we further found 32 candidate genes enriched in LVOTO patient including known pathological genes such as GATA5 and GATA6. Most variants of 32 risk genes occur simultaneously rather exclusively suggesting polygenic inherence of LVOTO and 14 genes out of 32 risk genes interact with previously discovered CHD genes. Single cell RNA-seq further revealed dynamic expressions of GATA5, GATA6, FOXD3 and MYO6 in endocardium and neural crest lineage indicating the mutations of these genes lead to LVOTO possibly through different lineages. These findings uncover the genetic architecture of LVOTO which advances the current understanding of LVOTO genetics.
Kawasaki disease and the environment: an enigmatic interplay
Authors: Aggarwal Ridhima , Pilania Rakesh Kumar , Sharma Saniya , Kumar Amit , Dhaliwal Manpreet , Rawat Amit , Singh Surjit
Published: December 2023

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a common systemic vasculitis of childhood. Although it has been almost 6 decades since Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki reported the first case series of KD, the underlying cause remains a mystery. KD is a self-limiting disease. However, a dreaded complication is development of coronary artery abnormalities (CAAs). KD is the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children in the developed world and is being increasingly reported from developing countries too. Over the years, significant observations have been made about epidemiology of KD. It usually affects children below 5, has male preponderance and has significantly higher incidence in North East Asian countries. While several hypotheses have been proffered for etiology of KD, none have been conclusive. These include associations of KD epidemics in Japan and the United Stated with changes in tropospheric wind patterns suggesting wind-borne agents, global studies showing peaks of incidence related to season, and increased rates in populations with a higher socioeconomic profile related to hygiene hypothesis and vaccination. Furthermore, the self-limiting, febrile nature of KD suggests an infectious etiology, more so with sudden decline noted in cases in Japan with onset of COVID-19 mitigation measures. Finally, single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified as possible risk alleles in patients with KD and their significance in the pathogenesis of this disease are also being defined. The purpose of this review is to elucidate the puzzling associations of KD with different environmental factors. Looking at patterns associated with KD may help us better predict and understand this disease.
Targeting the immune microenvironment for ovarian cancer therapy
Authors: Blanc-Durand Felix , Clemence Wei Xian Lai , Tan David S. P.
Published: December 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by a complex immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Immune checkpoint inhibitors have emerged as a breakthrough in cancer therapy by reactivating the antitumor immune response suppressed by tumor cells. However, in the case of OC, these inhibitors have failed to demonstrate significant improvements in patient outcomes, and existing biomarkers have not yet identified promising subgroups. Consequently, there remains a pressing need to understand the interplay between OC tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment to develop effective immunotherapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide an overview of the OC TME and explore its potential as a therapeutic strategy. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are major actors in OC TME. Evidence has been accumulating regarding the spontaneous TILS response against OC antigens. Activated T-helpers secrete a wide range of inflammatory cytokines with a supportive action on cytotoxic T-cells. Simultaneously, mature B-cells are recruited and play a significant antitumor role through opsonization of target antigens and T-cell recruitment. Macrophages also form an important subset of innate immunity (M1-macrophages) while participating in the immune-stimulation context. Finally, OC has shown to engage a significant natural-killer-cells immune response, exerting direct cytotoxicity without prior sensitization. Despite this initial cytotoxicity, OC cells develop various strategies to induce an immune-tolerant state. To this end, multiple immunosuppressive molecules are secreted to impair cytotoxic cells, recruit regulatory cells, alter antigen presentation, and effectively evade immune response. Consequently, OC TME is predominantly infiltrated by immunosuppressive cells such as FOXP3+ regulatory T-cells, M2-polarized macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Despite this strong immunosuppressive state, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have failed to improve outcomes. Beyond PD-1/PD-L1, OC expresses multiple other immune checkpoints that contribute to immune evasion, and each representing potential immune targets. Novel immunotherapies are attempting to overcome the immunosuppressive state and induce specific immune responses using antibodies adoptive cell therapy or vaccines. Overall, the OC TME presents both opportunities and obstacles. Immunotherapeutic approaches continue to show promise, and next-generation inhibitors offer exciting opportunities. However, tailoring therapies to individual immune characteristics will be critical for the success of these treatments.
Accelerometry reveals nocturnal biphasic sleep behavior in wild giraffe
Authors: Burger-Schulz Anna Lena , Thiel Eric , Fennessy Julian , Fennessy Stephanie , Dierkes Paul Wilhelm
Published: December 2023

Most research on mammalian resting and sleep behavior is conducted under controlled laboratory or zoo settings, with limited studies taking place in their natural habitats. To analyze these behaviors within a natural setting, actigraphy has been identified as a valuable method. This study sought to, firstly, measure inactivity and sleep in free-roaming Angolan giraffe (Giraffa giraffa angolensis) and, secondly, present their nocturnal behavioral rhythmicity. Three giraffe were fitted with an accelerometer-GPS device attached to an ossicone in November 2018 and behavioral data were collected daily between December 2018 and April 2019 to record their cranial movement. As giraffe show behavior specific head movements, sleep events could be detected as well as active and inactive behavior patterns. In this study, we analyzed how long giraffe were inactive during the night, how many sleep events they showed and for how long they were in the sleep position during the night. Giraffe were inactive for 490.8 ± 43.7 minutes during the night (from 19:00 to 7:00 local time), and a total of 857 sleep events were recorded with an average of 2.0 ± 1.0 events per night and total length of sleep per night averaged 8.6 ± 7.9 minutes. Further, results show a clear biphasic sleep profile during the night with peaks of inactivity and sleep events during the hours after sunset (21:00–23:00) and during the early morning hours before sunrise (3:00–5:00). We found individual differences for the number or sleep events, the total time sleeping as well as for inactivity. Interestingly, differences between months only were detected for inactivity. No differences were found for the number of sleep events nor for the total sleep time per night between months. For the first time, this study sheds light on the nocturnal sleep behavior and biphasic inactivity rhythm of giraffe in their natural habitat, providing additional support for previous findings indicating brief sleep episodes in giraffe.
Distribution patterns of marine megafauna density in the Mediterranean Sea assessed through the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative (ASI)
Authors: Cañadas Ana , Pierantonio Nino , Araújo Hélder , David Léa , Di Meglio Nathalie , Dorémus Ghislain , Gonzalvo Joan , Holcer Draško , Laran Sophie , Lauriano Giancarlo , Perri Morgane , Ridoux Vincent , Vázquez Jose Antonio , Panigada Simone
Published: December 2023

The ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative (ASI) is the first synoptic large-scale survey of the entire ACCOBAMS Area and as such it plays a key role in filling the current gaps in our biological and ecological knowledge of large vertebrate species occurring in the region. Data gathered during the ASI were analyzed in a distance sampling surface-modelling framework to assess the summer distribution, densities and patterns, as well as to investigate the correlates of these parameters, for large vertebrate species and taxa in the Mediterranean Basin. Static and dynamic explanatory variables, including water depth (m), distance to depth contours (km), distance to canyons and seabed slope (km), sea surface temperature (°C), mixed layer depth (m) and levels of chlorophyll-a (mg/l), were considered to predict density and compute its variance spatially at a resolution of 10x10 km. A strong longitudinal gradient from low densities in the east to high densities in the west is shared by most taxa. In addition, several taxa also showed a less marked latitudinal gradient varying in direction according to species, and finally, a few of them exhibited patchy distributions.
Four new Microbacterium species isolated from seaweeds and reclassification of five Microbacterium species with a proposal of Paramicrobacterium gen. nov. under a genome-based framework of the genus Microbacterium
Authors: Lee Soon Dong , Yang Hong Lim , Kim In Seop
Published: December 2023

The taxonomic relationships of 10 strains isolated from seaweeds collected from two beaches in Republic of Korea were studied by sequencing and analyses of 16S rRNA genes and whole genomes. For the construction of a more reliable and robust 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, the authentic and nearly complete 16S rRNA gene sequences of all the Microbacterium type strains were selected through pairwise comparison of the sequences contained in several public databases including the List of Prokaryotic names with Standing in Nomenclature (LPSN). The clustering of the ten study strains into five distinct groups was apparent in this single gene-based phylogenetic tree. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene sequences of a few type strains were shown to be incorrectly listed in LPSN. An overall phylogenomic clustering of the genus Microbacterium was performed with a total of 113 genomes by core genome analysis. As a result, nine major (≥ three type strains) and eight minor (two type strains) clusters were defined mostly at gene support index of 92 and mean intra-cluster OrthoANIu of >80.00%. All of the study strains were assigned to a Microbacterium liquefaciens clade and distributed further into four subclusters in the core genome-based phylogenetic tree. In vitro phenotypic assays for physiological, biochemical, and chemotaxonomic characteristics were also carried out with the ten study strains and seven closely related type strains. Comparison of the overall genomic relatedness indices (OGRI) including OrthoANIu and digital DNA–DNA hybridization supported that the study strains constituted four new species of the genus Microbacterium. In addition, some Microbacterium type strains were reclassified as members of preexisting species. Moreover, some of them were embedded in a new genus of the family Microbacteriaceae based on their distinct separation in the core genome-based phylogenetic tree and amino acid identity matrices. Based on the results here, four new species, namely, Microbacterium aurugineum sp. nov., Microbacterium croceum sp. nov., Microbacterium galbinum sp. nov., and Microbacterium sufflavum sp. nov., are described, along with the proposal of Paramicrobacterium gen. nov. containing five reclassified Microbacterium species from the “Microbacterium agarici clade”, with Paramicrobacterium agarici gen. nov., comb. nov. as the type species.
Comparative proteomic analysis of human milk fat globules and paired membranes and mouse milk fat globules identifies core cellular systems contributing to mammary lipid trafficking and secretion
Authors: Martin Carli Jayne F. , Dzieciatkowska Monika , Hernandez Teri L. , Monks Jenifer , McManaman James L.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Human milk delivers critical nutritional and immunological support to human infants. Milk fat globules (MFGs) and their associated membranes (MFGMs) contain the majority of milk lipids and many bioactive components that contribute to neonatal development and health, yet their compositions have not been fully defined, and the mechanisms responsible for formation of these structures remain incompletely understood.

Methods: In this study, we used untargeted mass spectrometry to quantitatively profile the protein compositions of freshly obtained MFGs and their paired, physically separated MFGM fractions from 13 human milk samples. We also quantitatively profiled the MFG protein compositions of 9 pooled milk samples from 18 lactating mouse dams.

Results: We identified 2,453 proteins and 2,795 proteins in the majority of human MFG and MFGM samples, respectively, and 1,577 proteins in mouse MFGs. Using paired analyses of protein abundance in MFGMs compared to MFGs (MFGM-MFG; 1% FDR), we identified 699 proteins that were more highly abundant in MFGMs (MFGM-enriched), and 201 proteins that were less abundant in MFGMs (cytoplasmic). MFGM-enriched proteins comprised membrane systems (apical plasma membrane and multiple vesicular membranes) hypothesized to be responsible for lipid and protein secretion and components of membrane transport and signaling systems. Cytoplasmic proteins included ribosomal and proteasomal systems. Comparing abundance between human and mouse MFGs, we found a positive correlation (R2 = 0.44, p < 0.0001) in the relative abundances of 1,279 proteins that were found in common across species.

Discussion: Comparative pathway enrichment analyses between human and mouse samples reveal similarities in membrane trafficking and signaling pathways involved in milk fat secretion and identify potentially novel immunological components of MFGs. Our results advance knowledge of the composition and relative quantities of proteins in human and mouse MFGs in greater detail, provide a quantitative profile of specifically enriched human MFGM proteins, and identify core cellular systems involved in milk lipid secretion.
Neuropsychological, plasma marker, and functional connectivity changes in Alzheimer’s disease patients infected with COVID-19
Authors: Zhang Shouzi , Zhang Li , Ma Li , Wu Haiyan , Liu Lixin , He Xuelin , Gao Maolong , Li Rui
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Patients with COVID-19 may experience various neurological conditions, including cognitive impairment, encephalitis, and stroke. This is particularly significant in individuals who already have Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as the cognitive impairments can be more pronounced in these cases. However, the extent and underlying mechanisms of cognitive impairments in COVID-19-infected AD patients have yet to be fully investigated through clinical and neurophysiological approaches.

Methods

This study included a total of 77 AD patients. Cognitive functions were assessed using neuropsychiatric scales for all participants, and plasma biomarkers of amyloid protein and tau protein were measured in a subset of 25 participants. To investigate the changes in functional brain connectivity induced by COVID-19 infection, a cross-sectional neuroimaging design was conducted involving a subset of 37 AD patients, including a control group of 18 AD participants without COVID-19 infection and a COVID-19 group consisting of 19 AD participants.

Results

For the 77 AD patients between the stages of pre and post COVID-19 infection, there were significant differences in cognitive function and psychobehavioral symptoms on the Montreal Scale (MoCA), the neuropsychiatric inventory (NPI), the clinician’s global impression of change (CIBIC-Plus), and the activity of daily living scale (ADL). The COVID-19 infection significantly decreased the plasma biomarker level of Aβ42 and increased the plasma p-tau181 level in AD patients. The COVID-19-infected AD patients show decreased local coherence (LCOR) in the anterior middle temporal gyrus and decreased global correlation (GCOR) in the precuneus and the medial prefrontal cortex.

Conclusion

The findings suggest clinical, cognitive, and neural alterations following COVID-19 infection in AD patients and emphasize the need for close monitoring of symptoms in AD patients who have had COVID-19 and further exploration of the underlying mechanisms.