bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint intent detection and slot filling with wheel-graph attention networks
Authors: Wei Pengfei , Zeng Bi , Liao Wenxiong
Published: November 2021

Intent detection and slot filling are recognized as two very important tasks in a spoken language understanding (SLU) system. In order to model these two tasks at the same time, many joint models based on deep neural networks have been proposed recently and archived excellent results. In addition, graph neural network has made good achievements in the field of vision. Therefore, we combine these two advantages and propose a new joint model with a wheel-graph attention network (Wheel-GAT), which is able to model interrelated connections directly for single intent detection and slot filling. To construct a graph structure for utterances, we create intent nodes, slot nodes, and directed edges. Intent nodes can provide utterance-level semantic information for slot filling, while slot nodes can also provide local keyword information for intent detection. The two tasks promote each other and carry out end-to-end training at the same time. Experiments show that our proposed approach is superior to multiple baselines on ATIS and SNIPS datasets. Besides, we also demonstrate that using bi-directional encoder representation from transformer (BERT) model further boosts the performance of the SLU task.
Choice of a method of carbon wire drawing
Authors: Kharitonov V. A. , Usanov M. Yu.
Published: November 2021

At present for wire production various methods of drawing are used. To choose an effective drawing method or their combination, a methodology is needed to estimate existing and new methods of drawing. A methodology of simultaneous estimation of strain-stress state of carbon wire in the area of deformation and force conditions of drawing presented. Based on it an analysis of drawing in monolith dies, roller dies of radial-shear broach, classic two- and multi-roller dies was carried out. A module-combined method of drawing was also considered. Recommended modes of reduction for drawing in monolith dies presented. It was shown that to obtain a wire of 4.0 mm diameter max, the drawing in monolith dies is most effective. For production of wire of larger diameters, roller dies are more advisable. Application of the technology of radial-shear deformation enables to obtain a fine-grained structure in the surface layers of wire. It was shown that application of a module comprising a roller die and a monolith die is most effective. An example of drawing of a round wire from 8.0 mm diameter to 3.0 mm diameter by a route developed with their application considered. Recommendations on application of various methods of drawing for wires of diameter from 0.007 mm to 15.0 mm presented.
CLINICAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH NON-VALVULAR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Authors: Solovev O.V. , Loukianova I. Yu.
Published: November 2021

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of heart arrhythmia that can lead to serious complications, such as ischemic stroke and acute heart failure. Timely diagnosis is problematic in cases of paroxysmal and asymptomatic atrial fibrillation. Therefore, studying of clinical conditions associated with atrial fibrillation represents a relevant scientific problem. There are some well-studied associations including those with arterial hypertension and chronic heart failure. Meanwhile, interconnections with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, and other conditions are not so clear and require further investigation. Deep understanding of the above mechanisms will facilitate prompt diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and prevention of its complications. In this review, the epidemiology of atrial fibrillation and major mechanisms underlying relationships between non-valvular atrial fibrillation and associated conditions are highlighted.
TOTEMISM CULT IN THE ERA OF TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS
Authors: Medvedeva E.I.
Published: November 2021

The article represents the study of the roots of religious totemism in modern advertisement. It has been noticed that the motives of marketers and advertising specialists who use totemic myths coincide with the motives of shamans who appeal to totems. Among them we can highlight the desire to get a kind of help from a totem animal, the desire to acquire the characteristics of an animal to adapt to the environment, and the need to expand the emotional background and unity with nature. Special attention is paid to advertising of innovative products - smartphones and cars. The motives for addressing totems in these two cases are the same. However, here we often see a modified totem: robots and computer models supersede animals. This is a new trend in the era of technical innovations, and there is reason to believe that it will continue to evolve.
Some ornithological observations of interest from Área de Reserva para Parque Nacional San Rafael, Itapúa department, Paraguay
Authors:   FAUNA Paraguay, Encarnación, Dpto. Itapúa, Paraguay, Smith Paul ,   Para La Tierra, Centro IDEAL, Sidelnik Marcin ,   FAUNA Paraguay, Encarnación, Dpto. Itapúa, Paraguay, Tirados Amez Ismael ,   FAUNA Paraguay, Encarnación, Dpto. Itapúa, Paraguay, Ríos Sergio D. ,   Departamento de Arqueología y Paleontología. Secretaría Nacional de Cultura. Asunción, Paraguay y Museo Nacional de Historia Natural del Paraguay, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
Published: November 2021

at 72,849 ha the “Área de Reserva para Parque Nacional San Rafael” (departamentos itapúa and caazapá) is the second largest block of upper paraná atlantic forest remaining in eastern paraguay and widely considered the highest priority for conservation of the endemic atlantic forest avifauna in the country (cartes et al. 2008). the avifauna of the reserve has been well documented (lowen et al. 1996, madroño et al. 1997, Smith et al. 2006, esquivel et al. 2007, esquivel and peris 2011, Smith and clay 2015) with most field effort in recent years concentrated on estancia nueva gambach (pro cosara). detailed descriptions of this locality are provided by cartes (2008), esquivel and peris (2011) and Smith and clay (2015). the San rafael reserve list stands at 426 spe- cies, making it the most ornithologically diverse protected area for birds in paraguay (Smith and clay 2015). here we provide documentation for five additional species which take the park total to 431 species, including two new records for itapúa department and formal documentation of one species for paraguay that was previously known only from literature reports. additionally we provide information on three additional ob- servations of interest.
Perspectiva docente sobre tecnología en tiempos del COVID-19 en México
Authors:   Universidad de Guadalajara CUCEI, Pérez Negrón Adriana Peña , Giovannella Carlo ,   University of Rome Tor Vergata & ASLERD, Valdez Aurora Espinoza ,   Universidad de Guadalajara CUCEI, Muñoz Mirna ,   Centro de Investigación en Matemáticas, A.C. Unidad Zacatecas, Carranza David Bonilla ,   Universidad de Guadalajara CUCEI, Passarelli Marcello ,   Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche,Istituto Tecnologie Didattiche
Published: November 2021

La pandemia por el COVID-19 tomó al mundo por sorpresa en muchos aspectos. Uno de los campos más afectados es la educación, en México millones de estudiantes cambiaron alaprendizaje en línea de un día para otro. En este documento se presentan los resultados de un cuestionario aplicado a profesores universitarioscon la finalidad de entender su percepción acerca de este cambio. Participaron 187 maestros, principalmente del estado de Jalisco (51%) y al menos un profesor de 25 de los 32 estados de la República Mexicana. Los principales resultados muestran que, con esta experiencia, los profesores han cambiado su perspectiva acerca de la educación en línea, mostrando su interés por utilizar esta modalidaden el futuro, y considerándolasustentable y viable. Sin embargo, también extrañan el salón de clase; la falta delaboratorios y la interacción personal, y la desigualdad económica son las principales desventajasde la educación a distancia.
On the terminological standard draft “SIBID. Library collection. Terms and definitions”
Authors: Kozlova E. I.
Published: November 2021

The author examines the draft of standard new version (GOST R 7.0.94–2015 “SIBID. Library document acquisitions. Terms and definitions”. The need for ordering terms in the area of collection development and collection studies. Owing to the terminology’s expanding onto collection studies, the standard title has changed from “Library collections. Terms and definitions”. The standard focuses on terms and definitions within the subject area of “library collection studies, library collections”. The vectors of standard drafting are discussed: outdated standardized definitions are edited; processes structure and contents are changed according to the modern theory and practice related to library collections; concept list for library collection characteristics is expanded; new concepts to describe library activities in digital environment are introduced. The draft standard comprises 170 terms and the alphabet index. The author describes Rosstandardregulated approaches toward national standard development [Rosstandard – Federal Agency on Technical Regulating and Metrology]. The new version key provisions and definitions can be used for references and will support further development of new regulations, methodological documents and instructions for library activities, and library collection studies.
Examining Prospective Teachers’ Metacognitive Learning Strategies and Self-Regulated Online Learning Levels During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: TÜMEN AKYILDIZ Seçil , DONMUŞ KAYA Vildan
Published: November 2021

By Covid-19 pandemic online or distance learning came to foreground to resolve the educational crisis. Student-centred practices were recommended by educators to weather the storm. That’s why including self-regulated learning (SRL) and metacognitive learning strategies (MLS) to the online learning are considered necessary. Thus, this study aimed at investigating the use of self-regulated online learning (SROL) and MLS levels of students, the relationship between them, how the use of MLS predicts Turkish prospective teachers’ online SRL capacity through the time of emergency remote education, and contributing to the new educational paradigm after the pandemic. The study was designed as a correlational survey model including 567 prospective teachers at Fırat University Faculty of Education in Turkey. The data were collected by MLS determining scale and SROL questionnaire for prospective teachers. The data were analyzed by t-test, ANOVA and simple linear regression. The results revealed that the participants have high levels of SROL and use MLS frequently. While SROL and MLS levels of participants do not differ in terms of gender; they differ with regard to participants’ departments, class levels and time of self-study. Lastly the use of MLS was a positive predictor of SROL.
The Relationship between School Administrators’ Supportive Behaviors and Teachers’ Job Satisfaction and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: ERTÜRK Ramazan
Published: November 2021

This research aimed to determine the relationships between school administrators’ supportive behaviors and teachers’ job satisfaction and subjective well-being via correlational survey model, a quantitative research method. The study group of this research was composed of 400 teachers working employed at primary schools in the city center of Bolu. Principal Support Scale, Teaching Satisfaction Scale and Teacher Subjective Well-being Questionnaire were used in the study. Since the data had a normal distribution, parametric tests were utilized in data analysis. Research results demonstrated positive and highly significant relationships between informational support and teachers’ job satisfaction and subjective well-being; between informational support and teachers’ job satisfaction and between principal support and emotional (expressive) support dimension and teachers’ subjective well-being. School administrators’ supportive behaviors were found to have a significant effect on teachers’ job satisfaction and subjective well-being levels. Teachers’ job satisfaction was found to affect their subjective well-being levels. The findings that school administrators provided moderate emotional and informational support to teachers and teachers had moderate job satisfaction were also remarkable and striking. This study presented the importance of school administrators’ supportive behaviors with the finding that school administrators’ support predicted both teachers’ job satisfaction and subjective well-being.
Investigação da qualidade de vida dos cuidadores de crianças com paralisia cerebral
Authors: Gomes Afrânio Agapito Bomba , Martinello Micheli , Marques Claudia Mirian de Godoy
Published: November 2021

Introdução: Alterações motoras frequentemente estão presentes e se relacionam com o desempenho funcional limitado nas atividades de vida diárias de crianças com Paralisia Cerebral (PC), exigindo a necessidade de ajuda total e/ou parcial de cuidadores, os quais tendem a assumir múltiplas responsabilidades, ocasionando cansaço, isolamento, sobrecarga e estresse. Objetivo: Identificar a qualidade de vida de cuidadores primários de crianças com PC nos centros de reabilitação neurofuncional da Grande Florianópolis/SC. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com cuidadores primários de crianças com PC que frequentam pelo menos um dos centros de reabilitação neurofuncional utilizando os seguintes instrumentos: Short Form Health (SF-36), Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) e a Parte I do Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Realizou-se análise descritiva, teste Shapiro Wilk e teste de Spearman com nível de significância quando p < 0,005. Resultados: Foram incluídos 32 cuidadores primários de crianças com PC. Observou-se predominância de crianças com PC do tipo quadriparesia espástica, com grave e moderado grau de funcionalidade, segundo o GMFCS (87%) e o MACS (54,4%), respectivamente. Nas atividades de vida diárias, um maior grau de comprometimento funcional foi proporcional a maior dependência e, portanto, maior necessidade de auxílio, especialmente relacionado ao autocuidado. Em relação a qualidade de vida, observou-se comprometimento na saúde física e consequentemente a diminuição na inserção social dos cuidadores. Conclusão: O nível de funcionalidade de crianças com PC foi proporcional a sua independência de seu desempenho nas atividades diárias, especialmente relacionado aos aspectos de autocuidado, porém a necessidade de auxílio para locomoção e/ou tarefas manuais não interferiram significativamente na qualidade de vida dos cuidadores.
O uso da estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua em crianças com paralisia cerebral: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Paixão Messias da Silva , Schimidt Teresa Cristina Gioia , Moura Renata Calhes Franco de
Published: November 2021

Introdução: Estimulação Transcraniana por Corrente Contínua (ETCC) é um recurso terapêutico não invasivo ao paciente, de baixo custo, baseado na alteração da excitabilidade do córtex motor. Técnica capaz de influenciar no mecanismo autônomo do SNC, aumentando a eficiência sináptica e favorecendo o aprendizado motor. Objetivo: Sistematizar evidências científicas sobre a ETCC como recurso terapêutico no processo de reabilitação de crianças com paralisia cerebral. Métodos: Revisão sistematizada seguindo recomendações do PRISMA e a busca estratégica PICO diante da indicação da ETCC, como recurso terapêutico no processo de reabilitação de crianças com paralisia cerebral. Incluídos ensaios clínicos controlados e randomizados, publicados nos últimos 10 anos, disponíveis em cinco relevantes bases de dados em saúde nos idiomas inglês, espanhol e português. Resultados: Foram encontrados 604 estudos, dos quais, após aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, quatro deles foram selecionados. Os resultados de tais estudos se mostraram benéficos no tratamento de crianças com paralisia cerebral, incluindo aquelas com mais de 70% de presença de espasticidade. Conclusão: ETCC constitui recurso promissor no tratamento da criança com paralisia cerebral, aceito pelas crianças visto ser indolor e apresentar reações leves como vermelhidão e formigamento no local da aplicação. Os efeitos favoráveis destacados foram: melhora no desempenho funcional e da marcha.
Primeiro a vida!
Authors: Abi-Saab Javier Augusto
Published: November 2021

Desde a antropologia ontológica, este artigo apresenta como a pandemia COVID-19 se experimenta como uma oportunidade para a comunidade Avié de nacionalidade ai’cofán da Amazônia Equatoriana, para o fortalecimento do território através das práticas agroecológicas que retomam valores tradicionais e ações de relacionalidade com a selva. A agroecologia, enmarcada no contexto da mutação ecológica, constitui uma resposta ao novo coronavírus ao estabelecer práticas que cuidam da nossa saúde, dos nossos corpos e do nosso alimento, temas que estão no centro dos impactos da pandemia.  COVID-19 emerge para a comunidade Avié e para os coletivos ecologistas como um sintoma do desequilíbrio e desconexão do mundo urbano e industrial moderno com os seres da natureza. Ao longo do texto se analisa por que as práticas e valores agroecológicos relacionados à vida são uma resposta contundente e sistêmica à pandemia e à mutação ecológica que experimentamos.
CESTAS AGROECOLÓGICAS DA AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR NO MUNICÍPIO DE CUNHA/SP - SAÚDE E ECONOMIA SOLIDÁRIA EM TEMPOS DA COVID -19
Authors: Bestaku Alketa , Berte Marccella Lopes , Pereira Lucimeire Alves de Toledo
Published: November 2021

Os agricultores e agricultoras familiares, que integram a Associação dos Produtores Agroecológicos de Cunha – Amigos da Terra, APAC, no município de Cunha-SP, diante da pandemia da COVID – 19, decidiram interromper voluntariamente, antes do Decreto Estadual, o seu principal canal de venda direta, a feira. Passaram a comercializar cestas agroecológicas com o intuito de manter a comercialização de seus produtos no período da pandemia. Por meio desse estudo, buscou-se analisar essas mudanças, principalmente no que se refere às dimensões econômicas e sociais, em especial às dinâmicas de solidariedade e cooperação, tendo como foco a reorganização da comercialização de produtos agroecológicos dos agricultores e agricultoras, durante o isolamento social. Os resultados mostram que o faturamento cai, mas crescem as práticas coletivas. A comercialização das cestas trouxe resultados econômicos positivos no faturamento, porém não retoma os patamares de faturamento do período anterior ao início da pandemia. O grupo também avançou com o uso de novas tecnologias de vendas digitais e as novas estratégias da comercialização permanecerão, mesmo após o término da pandemia.
PLANTAS ALIMENTÍCIAS NÃO CONVENCIONAIS COMO UMA ALTERNATIVA NA QUARENTENA
Authors: Miranda Sueny Pinhel , Borin Vitor Cezar Zonzini , De Souza Juliana Borges , Brasil Juliana Ferreira , Petine Elines Tatianes Pereira Dos Santos
Published: November 2021

O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar a experiência do curso “PANC, uma Alternativa na Quarentena”, que foi composto por 115 estudantes de diversas regiões do Brasil. A metodologia utilizada foi a pesquisa-ação, subsidiada por uma revisão bibliográfica, aplicação de um formulário eletrônico e depoimentos coletados durante o curso, que foram utilizados para gerar discussões e contribuir para uma conclusão sobre a importância de valorizar os saberes tradicionais.
Técnicas de procesamiento de lenguaje natural en la inteligencia artificial conversacional textual
Authors: Celi-Parraga Ricardo Javier , Varela-Tapia Eleanor Alexandra , Acosta-Guzmán Iván Leonel , Montaño-Pulzara Nestor Rafael
Published: November 2021

Introducción: el internet avanza a cada instante cambiando el panorama tecnológico de la interacción virtual o de comunicación, obligando a las empresas e industrias a incursionar en mejorar la experiencia de sus clientes, lo cual no va solo en tener páginas web, redes sociales y demás, si no que orilla a mejorar los canales de comunicación y como se interactúa por cada uno de ellos. Los chatbots permiten que los clientes se relacionen con las empresas donde sea y a la hora que sea, con lo que se resuelve el principal problema de costos de los call center u horarios de atención por mensajes de WhatsApp. Al agregar inteligencia artificial basado en procesamiento natural del lenguaje se mejora la interacción textual pasando de respuesta programadas a comprender la intención que mantiene un usuario sin importar que la redacción no sea especifica de nuestra base de datos. Objetivo: el presente artículo pretende analizar información bibliográfica de las diferentes técnicas de programación de IA basada en PLN y aplicado a los chatbot para conversaciones textuales. Metodología: al ser una investigación de revisión bibliográfica está enmarcada en la metodología cualitativa, buscando datos relevantes sobre el tema de estudio. Resultados: se presentarán los análisis de las diferentes técnicas dentro de la creación chatbots y sus implementaciones. Conclusiones: se entregará un análisis completo de la técnica con mejores beneficios al momento de crear un agente inteligente capaz de mantener una conversación en lenguaje natural e interpretar la intención de los usuarios.
Las ciclovías, la movilización de las personas y su salud
Authors: Linares-Vizcarra Mitzi Lourdes del Carmen
Published: November 2021

Uno de los problemas en Perú es el caótico transporte automotor, así como el incremento de las migraciones, esto conlleva al crecimiento del parque automotor, no solo en la capital, sino en las capitales de departamento. De ahí que el parque automotor esté al borde del colapso, ya que es muy antiguo, y es la causa de los problemas de espacio en la ciudad, la contaminación, la vida sedentaria y el tiempo que los usuarios disponen para trasladarse. Tacna no escapa de esta realidad, pero el problema es más notorio en la capital de Perú. Ante ello, las ciclovías surgen como una solución, debido a que contribuyen al desarrollo articulado de la infraestructura urbana, que debiera estar acorde con las necesidades sociales y avances tecnológicos. Se utilizó el método deductivo, ya que se observó la realidad y se trata de dar una solución alternativa al incremento desmedido del parque automotor. Entre los resultados inmediatos se verá el incremento del uso de las bicicletas y la mejora de la calidad de vida, reflejada en la salud de la población. Se concluye que es importante que el gobierno destine un presupuesto para el crecimiento integral de las ciclovías, lo que conlleva al surgimiento y crecimiento de emprendimientos, así como a la mejora de la salud.
On the Framed Normal Curves in Euclidean 4-space
Authors: AKYİĞİT Mahmut , YILDIZ Önder Gökmen
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we introduce the adapted frame of framed curves and we give the relations between the adapted frame and Frenet type frame of the framed curve in four-dimensional Euclidean space. Moreover, we define the framed normal curves in four-dimensional Euclidean space. We obtain some characterizations of framed normal curves in terms of their framed curvature functions. Furthermore, we give the necessary and sufficient condition for a framed curve to be a framed normal curve.
Analiza
latinskih posuđenica u Etimološkom rječniku novogrčkog jezika Nikolaosa
Andriotisa
Authors: Lončar Alka
Published: November 2021

Poznato je da su grčki jezik i kultura imali velik utjecaj na rimsku
kulturu i književnost na latinskom jeziku. Nešto rjeđe pozornost privlači
utjecaj latinskoga jezika na grčki, osobito kada se radi o posuđenicama. Cilj
je ovoga rada prikazati poteškoće te neke neutemeljene navode pri analizi
latinizama zapažene tijekom istraživanja provedenoga na Etimološkom rječniku
novogrčkog jezika jezikoslovca i leksikografa Nikolaosa Andriotisa.
VEGETATIVE AND CEREBRAL EFFECTS OF CARVELIS ® COMPONENTS IN PATIENTS WITH ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors:   Kyiv Medical University, Kyiv City Clinical Hospital № 5, Batushkin V.V. , Podyacha D.S. ,   Kyiv Medical University, Nesterenko L.O. ,   Kyiv City Clinical Hospital № 5
Published: November 2021

Key words: arterial hypertension, autonomic imbalance, dysfunction of cerebral and subcortical structures of blood pressure regulation, Carvelis treatment. In almost 36% of patients, the syndrome of arterial hypertension (AH) is determined by a combination of psychoemotional disorders with autonomic dysfunction. The aim of the study was to study the features of psychoemotional disorders and autonomic homeostasis in 78 middle-aged patients with uncomplicated hypertension and their correction using Carvelis in complex antihypertensive therapy.
Random Pandemic Perambulations: A Brief History of Literary Walks in the Age of Corona
Authors: Arnds Peter
Published: November 2021

This article focuses on the concept of randomness as the absence of goal-oriented movement in literary walks. The literature of walking displays the happenstance of adventure as one of the great antidotes to our inane, highly technologized, digitalized twenty-first-century lifestyle. In the end, however, such randomness may reveal itself as not so random after all, as the purpose of the journey, its inherent telos, discloses itself while travelling or in hindsight. This article provides brief glimpses into the history of literary walks to examine this tension between apparent randomness and the non-random. By drawing on a range of cultural theories and theorizations of travel and especially of walking, I look at literary foot travel in the nineteenth century, the Romantics and American Transcendentalists, some great adventure hikes in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, and the urban and rural flâneur. In doing so the article does not lose sight of the question of how we can instrumentalize the literature of walking for life during the current pandemic.
Iron Oxide–Modified Carbon Electrode and Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria for Simultaneous Enhanced Electricity Generation and Tannery Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Miran Faiz , Mumtaz Muhammad Waseem , Mukhtar Hamid , Akram Sadia
Published: November 2021

The microbial fuel cell (MFC) is emerging as a potential technology for extracting energy from wastes/wastewater while they are treated. The major hindrance in MFC commercialization is lower power generation due to the sluggish transfer of electrons from the biocatalyst (bacteria) to the anode surface and inefficient microbial consortia for treating real complex wastewater. To overcome these concerns, a traditional carbon felt (CF) electrode modification was carried out by iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles via facile dip-and-dry methods, and mixed sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRBs) were utilized as efficient microbial consortia. In the modified CF electrode with SRBs, a considerable improvement in the bioelectrochemical operation was observed, where the power density (309 ± 13 mW/m2) was 1.86 times higher than bare CF with SRBs (166 ± 11 mW/m2), suggesting better bioelectrochemical performance of an SRB-enriched Fe3O4@CF anode in the MFC. This superior activity can be assigned to the lower charge transfer resistance, higher conductance, and increased number of catalytic sites of the Fe3O4@CF electrode. The SRB-enriched Fe3O4@CF anode also assists in enhancing MFC performance in terms of COD removal (>75%), indicating efficient biodegradability of tannery wastewater and a higher electron transfer rate from SRBs to the conductive anode. These findings demonstrate that a combination of the favorable properties of nanocomposites such as Fe3O4@CF anodes and efficient microbes for treating complex wastes can encourage new directions for renewable energy–related applications.
A Three-Dimensional Co-Culture Model for Rheumatoid Arthritis Pannus Tissue
Authors: Lin Jietao , Sun Antonia RuJia , Li Jian , Yuan Tianying , Cheng Wenxiang , Ke Liqing , Chen Jianhai , Sun Wei , Mi Shengli , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) co-culture models have closer physiological cell composition and behavior than traditional 2D culture. They exhibit pharmacological effects like in vivo responses, and therefore serve as a high-throughput drug screening model to evaluate drug efficacy and safety in vitro. In this study, we created a 3D co-culture environment to mimic pathological characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pannus tissue. 3D scaffold was constructed by bioprinting technology with synovial fibroblasts (MH7A), vascular endothelial cells (EA.hy 926) and gelatin/alginate hydrogels. Cell viability was observed during 7-day culture and the proliferation rate of co-culture cells showed a stable increase stage. Cell-cell interactions were evaluated in the 3D printed scaffold and we found that spheroid size increased with time. TNF-α stimulated MH7A and EA.hy 926 in 3D pannus model showed higher vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin (ANG) protein expression over time. For drug validation, methotrexate (MTX) was used to examine inhibition effects of angiogenesis in 3D pannus co-culture model. In conclusion, this 3D co-culture pannus model with biological characteristics may help the development of anti-RA drug research.
Costunolide-Induced Apoptosis via Promoting the Reactive Oxygen Species and Inhibiting AKT/GSK3β Pathway and Activating Autophagy in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Xu Cuixiang , Huang Xiaoyan , Lei Xiaohua , Jin Zhankui , Wu Min , Liu Xiao , Huang Yubin , Zhao Xiangrong , Xiong Yue , Sun Jingying , Duan Xianglong , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2021

Objective: Costunolide (Cos) is a sesquiterpene lactone extracted from chicory. Although it possesses anti-tumor effects, the underlying molecular mechanism against gastric cancer cells remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect and potential mechanism of Cos on gastric cancer.

Methods: The effect of Cos on HGC-27 and SNU-1 proliferation was detected by CCK-8 and clone formation assay. The changes in cell apoptosis were determined using Hoechst 33258 and tunel staining. The morphology of autophagy was analyzed by autophagosomes with the electron microscope and LC3-immunofluorescence with the confocal microscope. The related protein levels of the cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy and AKT/GSK3β pathway were determined by Western blot. The anti-tumor activity of Cos was evaluated by subcutaneously xenotransplanting HGC-27 into Balb/c nude mice. The Ki67 and P-AKT levels were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results: Cos significantly inhibited HGC-27 and SNU-1 growth and induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Cos activated intrinsic apoptosis and autophagy through promoting cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and inhibiting the ROS-AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Moreover, preincubating gastric carcinoma cells with 3-methyladenine (3-MA), a cell-autophagy inhibitor, significantly alleviated the effects of Cos in inducing cell apoptosis.

Conclusion: Cos induced apoptosis of gastric carcinoma cells via promoting ROS and inhibiting AKT/GSK3β pathway and activating pro-death cell autophagy, which may be an effective strategy to treat gastric cancer.
Deconvolution of Bulk Gene Expression Profiles with Single-Cell Transcriptomics to Develop a Cell Type Composition-Based Prognostic Model for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Dai Chengguqiu , Chen Mengya , Wang Chaolong , Hao Xingjie
Published: November 2021

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the malignant hematologic cancers with rapid progress and poor prognosis. Most AML prognostic stratifications focused on genetic abnormalities. However, none of them was established based on the cell type compositions (CTCs) of peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirates from patients at diagnosis. Here we sought to develop a novel prognostic model for AML in adults based on the CTCs. First, we applied the CIBERSORT algorithm to estimate the CTCs for patients from two public datasets (GSE6891 and TCGA-LAML) using a custom gene expression signature reference constructed by an AML single-cell RNA sequencing dataset (GSE116256). Then, a CTC-based prognostic model was established using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression, termed CTC score. The constructed prognostic model CTC score comprised 3 cell types, GMP-like, HSC-like, and T. Compared with the low-CTC-score group, the high-CTC-score group showed a 1.57-fold [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.23 to 2.00; p = 0.0002] and a 2.32-fold (95% CI, 1.53 to 3.51; p < 0.0001) higher overall mortality risk in the training set (GSE6891) and validation set (TCGA-LAML), respectively. When adjusting for age at diagnosis, cytogenetic risk, and karyotype, the CTC score remained statistically significant in both the training set [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.25; 95% CI, 1.20 to 4.24; p = 0.0119] and the validation set (HR = 7.97; 95% CI, 2.95 to 21.56; p < 0.0001]. We further compared the performance of the CTC score with two gene expression-based prognostic scores: the 17-gene leukemic stem cell score (LSC17 score) and the AML prognostic score (APS). It turned out that the CTC score achieved comparable performance at 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-years timepoints and provided independent and additional prognostic information different from the LSC17 score and APS. In conclusion, the CTC score could serve as a powerful prognostic marker for AML and has great potential to assist clinicians to formulate individualized treatment plans.
A Novel Calix[4]Crown-Based 1,3,4-Oxadiazole as a Fluorescent Chemosensor for Copper(II) Ion Detection
Authors: Sun Chun , Du Siyi , Zhang Tianze , Han Jie
Published: November 2021

The synthesis and characterization of a novel florescent chemosensor 1 with two different types of cationic binding sites have been reported in this work, which is a calix[4]crown derivative in 1,3-alternate conformation bearing two 2-phenyl-5-(4-dimethylaminopyenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole units. The recognition behaviors of 1 in dichloromethane/acetonitrile solution to alkali metal ions (Na+ and K+), alkaline earth metal ions (Mg2+ and Ca2+), and transition metal ions (Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, and Ag+) have been investigated by UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra. The fluorescence of 1 might be quenched selectively by Cu2+ due to the photo-induced electron transfer mechanism, and the quenched emission from 1 could be partly revived by the addition of Ca2+ or Mg2+; thus, the receptor 1 might be worked as an on–off switchable fluorescent chemosensor triggered by metal ion exchange.
Cluster Assembled Silicon-Lithium Nanostructures: A Nanowire Confined Inside a Carbon Nanotube
Authors: Orellana Walter , Pino-Rios Ricardo , Yañez Osvaldo , Vásquez-Espinal Alejandro , Peccati Francesca , Contreras-García Julia , Cardenas Carlos , Tiznado William
Published: November 2021

We computationally explore an alternative to stabilize one-dimensional (1D) silicon-lithium nanowires (NWs). The Li12Si9 Zintl phase exhibits the NW [Li6Si5]∞1, combined with Y-shaped Si4 structures. Interestingly, this NW could be assembled from the stacking of the Li6Si5 aromatic cluster. The [Li6Si5]∞1@CNT nanocomposite has been investigated with density functional theory (DFT), including molecular dynamics simulations and electronic structure calculations. We found that van der Waals interaction between Li’s and CNT’s walls is relevant for stabilizing this hybrid nanocomposite. This work suggests that nanostructured confinement (within CNTs) may be an alternative to stabilize this free NW, cleaning its properties regarding Li12Si9 solid phase, i.e., metallic character, concerning the perturbation provided by their environment in the Li12Si7 compound.
The Effect of Exogenous Sex Steroids on the Vaginal Microbiota: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ratten Larissa K. , Plummer Erica L. , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Fairley Christopher K. , Murray Gerald L. , Garland Suzanne M. , Bateson Deborah , Tachedjian Gilda , Masson Lindi , Vodstrcil Lenka A.
Published: November 2021

Background

Exogenous sex steroids within hormonal contraception and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) have been used for family planning and management of menopausal symptoms, without consideration of their effects on the vaginal microbiota. This is largely because their use predates our understanding of the importance of the vaginal microbiome on human health. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42018107730) to determine the influence of exogenous sex steroids, stratified by oestrogen-containing or progestin-only types of contraception, and MHT on the vaginal microbiome, as measured by molecular methods.

Methods

Embase, PubMed and Medline were searched for relevant literature published through to December 1st 2020. Eligible studies reported on the effect of specific exogenous sex steroids on the vaginal microbiome using a molecular method. Data regarding the ‘positive’, ‘negative’ or ‘neutral’ effect of each type of contraceptive or MHT on the vaginal microbiome was extracted and summarised. A positive effect reflected sex steroid exposure that was associated with increased abundance of lactobacilli, a change to, or maintenance of, an optimal vaginal microbiota composition, or a decrease in bacterial diversity (specifically reflecting a low-diversity optimal microbiota state), relative to the control group. An exogenous sex steroid was designated as having a negative effect on the vaginal microbiome if it resulted in opposing effects (i.e. loss of lactobacilli, a non-optimal microbiota state). When no significant change was found, this was considered neutral/inconclusive.

Results

We identified 29 manuscripts reporting on the effect of exogenous sex steroids on the vaginal microbiome; 25 investigating hormonal contraceptives, and 4 investigating MHT. Oestrogen-containing contraception, particularly reflecting the combined oestrogen and progestin-containing contraceptive pill, had a positive effect on the composition of the vaginal microbiota. Progestin-only contraception, particularly reflecting depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate, had mixed effects on the microbiota. Among post-menopausal women using MHT, exogenous oestrogen applied topically was associated with increased prevalence of lactobacilli.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that oestrogen-containing compounds may promote an optimal vaginal microbiota, which could have clinical applications. The impact of progestin-only contraceptives on the vaginal microbiota is less clear; more data is needed to determine how progestin-only contraceptives contribute to adverse reproductive and sexual health outcomes.
Microbial-Driven Immunological Memory and Its Potential Role in Microbiome Editing for the Prevention of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Campillo-Gimenez Laure , Rios-Covian David , Rivera-Nieves Jesus , Kiyono Hiroshi , Chu Hiutung , Ernst Peter B.
Published: November 2021

Over the last several years, many advances have been made in understanding the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal cancers. Beginning withHelicobacter pyloribeing recognized as the first bacterial carcinogen and the causative agent of most gastric cancers, more recent studies have examined the role of enteric microbes in colorectal cancer. In the digestive tract, these communities are numerous and have a complex interrelationship with local immune/inflammatory responses that impact the health of the host. As modifying the microbiome in the stomach has decreased the risk of gastric cancer, modifying the distal microbiome may decrease the risk of colorectal cancers. To date, very few studies have considered the notion that mucosal lymphocyte-dependent immune memory may confound attempts to change the microbial components in these communities. The goal of this review is to consider some of the factors impacting host-microbial interactions that affect colorectal cancer and raise questions about how immune memory responses to the local microbial consortium affect any attempt to modify the composition of the intestinal microbiome.
Immunomodulation for the Treatment of Chronic Chagas Disease Cardiomyopathy: A New Approach to an Old Enemy
Authors: Santos Emanuelle de Souza , Silva Dahara Keyse Carvalho , Reis Bruna Padilha Zurita Claro dos , Barreto Breno Cardim , Cardoso Carine Machado Azevedo , Ribeiro dos Santos Ricardo , Meira Cássio Santana , Soares Milena Botelho Pereira
Published: November 2021

Chagas disease is a parasitic infection caused by the intracellular protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC) is the most severe manifestation of the disease, developed by approximately 20-40% of patients and characterized by occurrence of arrhythmias, heart failure and death. Despite having more than 100 years of discovery, Chagas disease remains without an effective treatment, especially for patients with CCC. Since the pathogenesis of CCC depends on a parasite-driven systemic inflammatory profile that leads to cardiac tissue damage, the use of immunomodulators has become a rational alternative for the treatment of CCC. In this context, different classes of drugs, cell therapies with dendritic cells or stem cells and gene therapy have shown potential to modulate systemic inflammation and myocarditis in CCC models. Based on that, the present review provides an overview of current reports regarding the use of immunomodulatory agents in treatment of CCC, bringing the challenges and future directions in this field.
Characterization of Naturally Acquired Immunity to a Panel of Antigens Expressed in Mature P. falciparum Gametocytes
Authors: Muthui Michelle K. , Takashima Eizo , Omondi Brian R. , Kinya Christine , Muasya William I. , Nagaoka Hikaru , Mwai Kennedy W. , Orindi Benedict , Wambua Juliana , Bousema Teun , Drakeley Chris , Blagborough Andrew M. , Marsh Kevin , Bejon Philip , Kapulu Melissa C.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Naturally acquired immune responses against antigens expressed on the surface of mature gametocytes develop in individuals living in malaria-endemic areas. Evidence suggests that such anti-gametocyte immunity can block the development of the parasite in the mosquito, thus playing a role in interrupting transmission. A better comprehension of naturally acquired immunity to these gametocyte antigens can aid the development of transmission-blocking vaccines and improve our understanding of the human infectious reservoir.

Methods

Antigens expressed on the surface of mature gametocytes that had not previously been widely studied for evidence of naturally acquired immunity were identified for protein expression alongside Pfs230-C using either the mammalian HEK293E or the wheat germ cell-free expression systems. Where there was sequence variation in the candidate antigens (3D7 vs a clinical isolate PfKE04), both variants were expressed. ELISA was used to assess antibody responses against these antigens, as well as against crude stage V gametocyte extract (GE) and AMA1 using archived plasma samples from individuals recruited to participate in malaria cohort studies. We analyzed antibody levels (estimated from optical density units using a standardized ELISA) and seroprevalence (defined as antibody levels greater than three standard deviations above the mean levels of a pool of malaria naïve sera). We described the dynamics of antibody responses to these antigens by identifying factors predictive of antibody levels using linear regression models.

Results

Of the 25 antigens selected, seven antigens were produced successfully as recombinant proteins, with one variant antigen, giving a total of eight proteins for evaluation. Antibodies to the candidate antigens were detectable in the study population (N = 216), with seroprevalence ranging from 37.0% (95% CI: 30.6%, 43.9%) for PSOP1 to 77.8% (95% CI: 71.6%, 83.1%) for G377 (3D7 variant). Responses to AMA1 and GE were more prevalent than those to the gametocyte proteins at 87.9% (95% CI: 82.8%, 91.9%) and 88.3% (95% CI: 83.1%, 92.4%), respectively. Additionally, both antibody levels and breadth of antibody responses were associated with age and concurrent parasitaemia.

Conclusion

Age and concurrent parasitaemia remain important determinants of naturally acquired immunity to gametocyte antigens. Furthermore, we identify novel candidates for transmission-blocking activity evaluation.
Diffusion State Transitions in Single-Particle Trajectories of MET Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Measured in Live Cells
Authors: Rahm Johanna V. , Malkusch Sebastian , Endesfelder Ulrike , Dietz Marina S. , Heilemann Mike
Published: November 2021

Single-particle tracking enables the analysis of the dynamics of biomolecules in living cells with nanometer spatial and millisecond temporal resolution. This technique reports on the mobility of membrane proteins and is sensitive to the molecular state of a biomolecule and to interactions with other biomolecules. Trajectories describe the mobility of single particles over time and provide information such as the diffusion coefficient and diffusion state. Changes in particle dynamics within single trajectories lead to segmentation, which allows to extract information on transitions of functional states of a biomolecule. Here, mean-squared displacement analysis is developed to classify trajectory segments into immobile, confined diffusing, and freely diffusing states, and to extract the occurrence of transitions between these modes. We applied this analysis to single-particle tracking data of the membrane receptor MET in live cells and analyzed state transitions in single trajectories of the un-activated receptor and the receptor bound to the ligand internalin B. We found that internalin B-bound MET shows an enhancement of transitions from freely and confined diffusing states into the immobile state as compared to un-activated MET. Confined diffusion acts as an intermediate state between immobile and free, as this state is most likely to change the diffusion state in the following segment. This analysis can be readily applied to single-particle tracking data of other membrane receptors and intracellular proteins under various conditions and contribute to the understanding of molecular states and signaling pathways.
Modeling Distribution and Habitat Suitability for the Snow Leopard in Bhutan
Authors: Lham Dechen , Cozzi Gabriele , Sommer Stefan , Thinley Phuntsho , Wangchuk Namgay , Wangchuk Sonam , Ozgul Arpat
Published: November 2021

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is one of the world's most elusive felids. In Bhutan, which is one of the 12 countries where the species still persists, reliable information on its distribution and habitat suitability is lacking, thus impeding effective conservation planning for the species. To fill this knowledge gap, we created a country-wide species distribution model using “presence-only” data from 420 snow leopard occurrences (345 from a sign survey and 77 from a camera-trapping survey) and 12 environmental covariates consisting of biophysical and anthropogenic factors. We analyzed the data in an ensemble model framework which combines the outputs from several species distribution models. To assess the adequacy of Bhutan's network of protected areas and their potential contribution toward the conservation of the species, we overlaid the output of the ensemble model on the spatial layers of protected areas and biological corridors. The ensemble model identified 7,206 km2 of Bhutan as suitable for the snow leopard: 3,647 km2 as highly suitable, 2,681 km2 as moderately suitable, and 878 km2 as marginally suitable. Forty percent of the total suitable habitat consisted of protected areas and a further 8% of biological corridors. These suitable habitats were characterized by a mean livestock density of 1.3 individuals per hectare, and a mean slope of 25°; they closely match the distribution of the snow leopard's main wild prey, the bharal (Pseudois nayaur). Our study shows that Bhutan's northern protected areas are a centre for snow leopard conservation both at the national and regional scale.