bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Studying the Biological Characteristics of the Stingless Bee Tetrigonilla Collina Smith 1857 (Apidae: Melipona) in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Thai Pham Hong , Ngoc Phan Thanh , Huong Ha Thi Le
Published: August 2021

Stingless bees are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. There are over 16,000 species of stingless bees around the world, among which, 42 species are from Asia (Kerr & Maule, 1964). Sixteen species of stingless bees have been identified in Vietnam (Sakagami, 1975; Sakagami, 1978; Engel, 2000; Chinh et al., 2005; Rasmussen, 2008). In this study, the biological characteristics of Tetrigonilla collina, as a representative for Southeast Asian stingless bees, were observed and recorded. The worker cell dimensions were 5.30 ± 0.34mm in length by 4.28 ± 0.37mm in width with a volume of 45.02 ± 5.74mL (food volume: 19.05 ± 3.5mL; ratio: 42.27%). The new cells were mostly built in the morning (from 2:00 to 10:00 am) and the queen laid eggs (2.52 ± 0.81 sec per egg) and capped the cells in the afternoon (from 12:00 to 17:00 pm). The average worker-cell building period was 12.03 ± 3.78 hours. Mainly, six of first ten bees that inserted made food discharges in a cell. The food discharge occurred in a very short time, which was 1.58 ± 0.6 minutes. The new cell numbers of the colony were reduced at the end of the experimental period.
Ogled i odjek zaštite i sigurnije budućnosti djeteta u svjetlu Panamske i Rimske deklaracije
Authors: Bošnjaković Josip , Osmančević Leali
Published: August 2021

Djeca i dječja prava iznimno su važna tema u znanstveno-istraživačkom te praktičnom području komunikologije, psihologije i teoloških razmatranja. Ta tema u središtu je sveopće službe vjerskih i međunarodnih institucija te udruga dok se zakonodavno-pravni okviri kreiraju svake godine štiteći djecu i općeniti bitak u svijetu zagovarajući jednakost. Tako su 2017. godine prihvaćene dvije vrlo važne deklaracije: Panamska i Rimska. U radu će se tema djeteta i dječjih prava obraditi u svjetlu komunikologije, teologije i psihologije, kao i relevantnih doku-menata te će se analizirati i različiti pristupi navedenih deklaracija. Doprinos ovoga rada jest sveobuhvatni prikaz teme dječjih prava kroz prizmu navedenih deklaracija, što je ujedno i prva analiza tih dviju deklaracija koje štite dječja prava i dostojanstvo, kao i sigurniju budućnost na međunarodnoj razini.
Odnos tiska prema Katoličkoj Crkvi u Jugoslaviji u razdoblju od 1952. do
1970. godine – na primjeru
analize vinkovačkoga lista Novosti
Authors: Bendra Ivana
Published: August 2021

Složenost odnosa jugoslavenske komunističke vlasti prema Katoličkoj Crkvi u okviru stvaranja novoga socijalističkoga društveno-političkoga uređenja tema je o kojoj će se u ovom radu progovoriti na temelju analize odnosa tiska prema Katoličkoj Crkvi u razdoblju od 1952. do 1970. godine. Na primjeru provedene kvantitativno-kvalitativne analize članaka objavljenih u vinkovačkom listu Novosti u odabranom razdoblju prikazat će se rezultati o učestalosti pojavljivanja, kao i kontekst u okviru kojega su se pojavljivale odabrane ključne riječi za analizu digitaliziranoga oblika novina (Katolička Crkva, svećenici, religija/religioznost, kler/klerikalizam, crkva, vjera, kršćanstvo). Na taj način cilj je analize tjednika Novosti utvrditi uočavaju li se određene promjene u odnosu tiska prema Katoličkoj Crkvi u razdoblju dugom devetnaest godina za vrijeme kojega se odvilo više događanja ključnih za propitivanje sveukupnoga odnosa Jugoslavije prema Katoličkoj Crkvi (od prekida diplomatskih odnosa između Svete stolice i Jugoslavije, potpisivanja Protokola, sve do ponovne uspostave diplomatskih odnosa).
The equilibrium time and deformation characteristic of sulfate saline soil in 1D saline expansion test
Authors:   Key Laboratory of Urban Underground Engineering of Ministry of Education, Ji Y.J. , Li X. ,   Key Laboratory of Urban Underground Engineering of Ministry of Education
Published: August 2021

The salt expansion disease is serious for the soil containing sodium sulfate in cold regions. This paper carried out one-dimensional swelling tests of saline soil, and numerical cooling tests of soil to explore the stability time of salt swelling deformation and determine the standard procedure of the salt swelling test method. The test results demonstrate that: (A) the temperature equilibrium and crystallization process are almost completed simultaneously in the one-dimensional (1D) salt expansion test; (B) Referring to the standard of consolidation test, a standard that the expansion rate is less than 0.02mm/h can be used in the salt expansion test; (C) The required time for temperature equilibrium of soil is quadratic to sample size and is much faster with liquid bath condition comparing to gas bath condition. Because the deformation and temperature are synchronized, the deformation stabilization time of different size samples in different cooling media is recommended.This can provide a reference for the deformation equilibrium time of the salt swelling test.
Comparison of ph measurement results in buffer solution
Authors:   L.N.Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Baikhozhayeva B.U. , Zhumagali A.K. ,   L.N.Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Moldakhmetova A.E. ,   L.N.Gumilyov Eurasian National University
Published: August 2021

As a result of the increasing need to study the choice of the assigned value during the inter-laboratory comparisons is becoming more and more relevant. Since the assigned value is a reference point when comparing the results of the participants of the qualification test. Frequently, qualification verification providers face a number of problems when choosing the assigned value. An incomplete analysis of the results of interlaboratory comparisons will lead to an inaccurate assessment of the competence of the laboratory, which contributes to the revocation of the certification of the accreditation of the laboratory participant. This article attempts to provide a complete statistical analysis of the results of interlaboratory comparisons from the beginning to the end of the tour with the content of all statistical analyses recommended in GOST ISO/IEC 17043-2013. The results of interlaboratory comparisons conducted in testing laboratories of Kazakhstan aimed at ensuring metrological traceability of pH measurements in a buffer solution are presented. The reference values of the buffer solution are determined in the state scientific metrological center.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Postoperative Delirium in Patients with Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Zhang Menglu , Bai Xiaozhi , Zhang Yuting , Xie Xiaojuan
Published: August 2021

Objective — To investigate the occurrence and risk factors of postoperative delirium in patients with esophageal cancer. Methods — A review of 203 patients undergoing elective surgery for esophageal cancer from April 2019 to December 2020, including 122 males and 81 females. The incidence of postoperative delirium were evaluated through the use of the CAM and divided into delirium group (Group P) and non-delirium group (Group N) according to whether postoperative delirium occurred. Possible confounders and clinically important factors were included in the univariate analysis, and all variables with P-values less than 0.05 in the univariate analysis were included in the multivariate models. Results — A total of 38 cases (18.7%) of postoperative delirium occurred in 203 patients. Group P was significantly older than Group N (P=0.000<0.01). The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) scores (P=0.01<0.05) and the FRAIL Scale scores of Group P were significantly higher than those of the N group (P=0.001<0.05). The educational level (P=0.001<0.01) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores (P=0.004<0.01) of Group P were significantly lower than those of Group N. The use rate of sevoflurane in Group P (P=0.011<0.05), the incidence of intraoperative hypotension (P=0.002<0.05), and the rate of Porphyromonas gingivalis infection (P=0.012<0.05) were higher than those in Group N. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR=1.295, 95%CI 1.125 ~ 1.490) and Porphyromonas gingivalis infection (OR=2.898, 95%CI 1.055 ~ 7.959) were independent risk factors for postoperative delirium in patients with esophageal cancer. Conclusion — age and Porphyromonas gingivalis infection may be the independent risk factors for postoperative delirium in patients with esophageal cancer.
The Relationship between Reading Anxiety and Reading Performance: A Comparison Study of Chinese Postgraduates in China and in the UK
Authors: Zhu Zhiyi
Published: August 2021

This study investigated three aspects that related to Foreign Language (FL) reading anxiety: the FL reading anxiety levels; the relationship between FL reading anxiety and reading performance; the main sources of FL reading anxiety. With both quantitative and qualitative research method, the total amount of 47 Chinese postgraduates took part in a paper questionnaire including Foreign Language Reading Anxiety Scale (FLRAS) and reading test, Cambridge Advanced English (CAE). According to the FLRAS scores, 12 of them had one-to-one semi-structured interviews. The results shows that most Chinese postgraduates experienced a moderate level of English reading anxiety, and that international students have higher reading anxiety than domestic students. No statistically significant relationship was found between FL reading anxiety and the reading test. After thematic coding analysis, the main sources of English reading anxiety among international students were found to be ‘demanding text feature’ and ‘different class settings in the UK’. For domestic students, limited English exposure was the main source. Recommendations for teachers and for both groups of students are provided, and the limitations of the present study and suggestions for future research are discussed at the end of the paper.
An Evaluation of Students Studying English Language and Literature about Transitioning to Online Classes during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: YÜKSELİR Ceyhun , YUVAYAPAN Fatma
Published: August 2021

There are ever-increasing studies about online classes and their applications in terms of benefits and deficits in transitioning to online education especially after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in the world. This study investigates the English language learners’ evaluations about transitioning to online classes in higher education in a sample of students at English language and literature (ELL) department. In addition to this, following a mixed-method design, it attempts to find out the students’ preferences whether this change about online delivery in higher education is well welcomed or not. ELL students’ preferences and evaluations were assessed through a five-point Likert survey and a focus group interview. After employing convenience sampling, 96 ELL students responded to the survey and 10 students who answered the survey participated in the focused interview voluntarily. The results showed that both groups of learners had positive evaluations about transitioning to online classes in terms of the content, delivery and structure during pandemic. The participants also thought that their professors utilized online classes effectively leading to a seamless transition to online learning for them. The implications of these findings for online classes in Turkish higher education context are discussed.
Antibacterial Activity of Nanoemulsions Based on Essential Oils Compounds Against Species of Xanthomonas that Cause Citrus Canker
Authors: da Cruz Silva Gulherme , Golçalves de Oliveira Filho Josemar , de Mori Morselli Ribeiro Marilene , Oliveira de Souza Clovis Wesley , Ferreira Marcos David
Published: August 2021

Citrus canker is a bacterial disease that affects citrus crops, caused by microorganisms of the genus Xanthomonas responsible for great damage to citrus production. In this work, the antimicrobial effect of nanoemulsions based on the major compounds of essential oils (EOs) eugenol, thymol, geraniol and menthone were investigated against two strains of Xanthomonas that cause citrus canker (Xac and XauB). Nanoemulsions were produced for each compound using two different stirring speeds (7,000 and 12,000 rpm). All nanoemulsions underwent analysis to characterize particle sizes and stability. Thymol nanoemulsions had the smallest particle sizes (59.8 to 73.9 nm) and the highest stability and also showed the ability to inhibit the development of both strains of bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 0.03% (v/v), along with eugenol (0.03% (v/v) for Xac and 0.02% (v/v) for XauB) and geraniol nanoemulsions (0.06% (v/v) for both bacteria). Thymol was the compound with the highest minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC), with values of 0.03% (v/v) for both bacterial strains. Eugenol showed MBC only against XauB, at a concentration of 0.03% (v/v). Geraniol did not show bactericidal activity, suggesting a bacteriostatic action of this compound with the tested microorganisms. In general, the antimicrobial activity of the nanoemulsions was increased with increased agitation speed, particle reduction and greater stability. Therefore, nanoemulsification can be an alternative to applying the antimicrobial activity of natural compounds in the control of citrus canker.
A Way Forward to Combat Insect Pest in Rice
Authors: Ali MP , Nessa B , Khatun MT , Salam MU , Kabir MS
Published: August 2021

The damage caused by insect pest is the continual factor for the reduction of rice production. To date, 232 rice insect pest species are identified in Bangladesh and more than 100 species of insects are considered pests in rice production systems globally, but only about 20 - 33 species can cause significant economic loss. The major goal of this study is to explore all the possible ways of developed and proposed technologies for rice insect pests management and minimize economic losses. Insect pests cause 20% average yield loss in Asia where more than 90% of the world's rice is produced. In Bangladesh, outbreak of several insects such as rice hispa, leafroller, gallmidge, stem borers and brown planthopper (BPH) occurs as severe forms. Based on previous reports, yield loss can reach upto 62% in an outbreak situation due to hispa infestation. However, BPH can cause 44% yield loss in severe infestested field. To overcome the outbreaks in odd years and to keep the loss upto 5%, it is necessary to take some preventive measures such as planting of resistant or tolerant variety, stop insecticide spraying at early establishment of rice, establish early warning and forecasting system, avoid cultivation of susceptible variety and following crop rotation. Subsequent quick management options such as insecticidal treatment for specific insect pest should also be broadcasted through variety of information systems. Advanced genomic tool can be used to develop genetically modified insect and plants for sustainable pest management. In addition, to stipulate farmers not use insecticides at early crop stgae and minimize general annualized loss, some interventions including training rice farmers, regular field monitoring, digitalization in correct insect pests identification and their management (example; BRRI rice doctor mobile app), and demonstration in farmers field. Each technology itself solely or combination of two or more or all the packages can combat the insect pests, save natural enemies, harvest expected yield and contribute to safe food production in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Rice J. 25 (1) : 1-22, 2021
PERLAWANAN RAKYAT WANGI-WANGI TERHADAP KEBIJAKAN PENARIKAN PAJAK PEMERINTAH HINDIA BELANDA PADA AWAL ABAD XX
Authors: Lina Nurvianti , Hadara Ali , Hayari Hayari
Published: August 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan proses perlawanan rakyat Wangi-Wangi terhadap kebijakan penarikan pajak pemerintah Hindia Belanda pada awal abad XX. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode sejarah yang terdiri atas lima tahapan kerja yaitu, (1) Pemilihan topik, (2) Heuristik sumber, (3) Verifikasi sumber, (4) Interpretasi sumber, (5) Historiografi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: (1) Perlawanan rakyat Wangi-Wangi terhadap kebijakan penarikan pajak dimulai sejak penandatanganan perjanjian Asyikin-Brugman pada tahun 1906. Pada saat itu wilayah Kesultanan Buton direstrukturisasi ke dalam sistem distric. Salah satu distrik tersebut yakni distrik Wanci yang ada di Pulau Wangi-Wangi. Masyarakat melakukan perlawanan karena menganggap mekanisme pemungutan pajak yang kurang etis secara adat. (2) Proses Perlawanan rakyat Wangi-Wangi terhadap kebijakan penarikan pajak pemerintah Hindia Belanda dimulai pada masa akhir pemerintah Hindia Belanda.  Perlawanan rakyat Wangi-Wangi juga dilakukan secara tidak langsung yaitu dengan cara melarikan diri dari besarnya jumlah pajak, bahkan rakyat yang tidak tahan terpaksa melarikan diri dari daerah tersebut. (3) Dampak perlawanan rakyat Wangi-Wangi terhadap kebijakan penarikan pajak dibagi menjadi dua yaitu: dampak negatif dan dampak positif. Dampak negatif yakni masyarakat hidup dalam kemiskinan dan kemeralatan. Dampak positif yakni aksi  perlawanan tersebut berhasil menyalakan semangat patriotik  di dalam dada seluruh rakyat Wangi-Wangi untuk memperjuangkan kemerdekaannya.
SEJARAH BENTENG LAPADI DI PAMANDATI KECAMATAN LAINEA KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN: 1908-1911
Authors: Abdiansyah Muhammad Aswad , Hisna Hisna , Alim Abdul
Published: August 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) mendeskripsikan proses pendirian Benteng Lapadi di Desa Pamandati Kecamatan Lainea Kabupaten Konawe Selatan pada tahun 1900, (2)  menjelaskan latar belakang penamaan Benteng Lapadi oleh masyarakat Desa Pamandati, (3) menjelaskan fungsi Benteng Lapadi pada periode 1900-1942. Penelitian ini mengunakan metode sejarah dengan melalui lima tahapan-tahapan kerja sebagai berikut (1) Pemilihan topik, (2) Heuristik sumber, (3) Kritik sumber, (4) Interpretasi sumber, (5) Historiografi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1) Proses pendirian Benteng Lapadi oleh Lapadi dan masyarakat ini berkaitan dengan reaksi yang dilakukan oleh Lapadi atas penolakan untuk melakukan hubungan kerja sama antara Belanda dengan Raja Sao-Sao. (2) Keberadaan Benteng Lapadi sampai saat ini masih dalam bentuk aslinya hanya saja sebagian dindingnya telah lapuk disebabkan oleh proses waktu yang sangat lama. Selain itu benteng ini juga kelilingi oleh rumput-rumput liar akibat kurangnya perhatian dari masyarakat dan pemerintah dalam melakukan pelestarian situs peninggalan bersejarah ini. (3) Benteng Lapadi pada Periode 1900-1942  memiliki fungsi dan peran sebagai tempat persembunyian, tempat untuk merancang taktik gerilya serta tempat bermukim. Benteng Lapadi juga digunakan sebagai simbol perlawanan terhadap Kerajaan Laiwoi yang melakukan kerja sama politik dengan pihak Belanda.
Science Process Skills in the Greek Primary School Science Textbooks
Authors:   School of Humanities, Hellenic Open University, Patra, Greece, Sideri Andriani , Skoumios Michael ,   Department of Primary Education, School of Humanities, University of the Aegean, Rhodes, Greece
Published: August 2021

Science process skills play an essential role in science education. The research assessing these skills in school science textbooks is limited. The aim of the current study was to examine the involvement of science process skills in the content of science school textbooks of the last two primary school grades in Greece. A specific analysis framework was adopted, based on 534 activities included in the two textbooks. It was concluded that the activities included in the two textbooks mainly involved the skills of communicating, observing, and inferring, while the involvement of the remaining science process skills was particularly limited. Therefore, the school textbooks fail to provide students satisfactory opportunities to engage in science process skills and facilitate a better understanding of sciences ideas and concepts. The findings of this study provide information about some strengths and weaknesses of the science textbooks that could be used by teachers in planning for teaching.
Spheroid Coculture of Human Gingiva-Derived Progenitor Cells With Endothelial Cells in Modified Platelet Lysate Hydrogels
Authors: Shanbhag Siddharth , Rashad Ahmad , Nymark Ellen Helgeland , Suliman Salwa , de Lange Davies Catharina , Stavropoulos Andreas , Bolstad Anne Isine , Mustafa Kamal
Published: August 2021

Cell coculture strategies can promote angiogenesis within tissue engineering constructs. This study aimed to test the angiogenic potential of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) cocultured with gingiva-derived progenitor cells (GPC) as spheroids in a xeno-free environment. Human platelet lysate (HPL) was used as a cell culture supplement and as a hydrogel matrix (HPLG) for spheroid encapsulation. HUVEC and HUVEC + GPC (1:1 or 5:1) spheroids were encapsulated in various HPLG formulations. Angiogenesis was assessed via in vitro sprouting and in vivo chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays. HUVEC revealed characteristic in vitro sprouting in HPL/HPLG and this was significantly enhanced in cocultures with GPC (p < 0.05). A trend for greater sprouting was observed in 5:1 vs 1:1 HUVEC + GPC spheroids and in certain HPLG formulations (p > 0.05). Both HUVEC and HUVEC + GPC spheroids in HPLG revealed abundant and comparable neoangiogenesis in the CAM assay (p > 0.05). Spheroid coculture of HUVEC + GPC in HPLG represents a promising strategy to promote angiogenesis.
Ventilation for Residential Buildings: Critical Assessment of Standard Requirements in the COVID-19 Pandemic Context
Authors: Aguilera Benito Patricia , Piña Ramírez Carolina , Viccione Giacomo , Lepore Ester
Published: August 2021

After the arrival of a new airborne virus to the world, science is aiming to develop solutions to withstand the spread and contagion of SARS-CoV-2. The most severe among the adopted measures is to remain in home isolation for a significant number of hours per day, to avoid the spreading of the infection in an uncontrolled way through public spaces. Recent literature showed that the primary route of transmission is via aerosols, especially produced in poorly ventilated inner spaces. Spain has reached very high levels concerning contagion rates, accumulated incidence, or number of hospitalizations due to COVID-19. Therefore, this article aims to develop a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the requirements established in Spain, with respect to the European framework in reference to ventilation parameters indoors. The different parameters that serve as calculation for the ventilation flow in homes are analyzed to this aim. Results show that the criteria established in the applicable regulations are insufficient to ensure health and avoid contagion by aerosols indoors.
cGAS–STING and MyD88 Pathways Synergize in Ly6Chi Monocyte to Promote Streptococcus pneumoniae-Induced Late-Stage Lung IFNγ Production
Authors: Patel Seema , Tucker Heidi R. , Gogoi Himanshu , Mansouri Samira , Jin Lei
Published: August 2021

The cyclic GMP–AMP synthase–stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS–STING) pathway senses DNA and induces type I interferon (IFN) production. Whether and how the STING pathway crosstalk to other innate immune pathways during pathogen infection, however, remains unclear. Here, we showed that STING was needed forStreptococcus pneumoniae-induced late, not early, stage of lung IFNγ production. Using knockout mice, IFNγ reporter mice, intracellular cytokine staining, and adoptive cell transfer, we showed that cGAS–STING-dependent lung IFNγ production was independent of type I IFNs. Furthermore, STING expression in monocyte/monocyte-derived cells governed IFNγ production in the lungviathe production of IL-12p70. Surprisingly, DNA stimulation alone could not induce IL-12p70 or IFNγ in Ly6Chimonocyte. The production of IFNγ required the activation by both DNA and heat-killedS. pneumococcus. Accordingly, MyD88−/−monocyte did not generate IL-12p70 or IFNγ. In summary, the cGAS–STING pathway synergizes with the MyD88 pathway in monocyte to promote late-stage lung IFNγ production during pulmonary pneumococcal infection.
Spontaneously Resolving Joint Inflammation Is Characterised by Metabolic Agility of Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes
Authors: Falconer Jane , Pucino Valentina , Clayton Sally A. , Marshall Jennifer L. , Raizada Sabrina , Adams Holly , Philp Andrew , Clark Andrew R. , Filer Andrew , Raza Karim , Young Stephen P. , Buckley Christopher D.
Published: August 2021

Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) play an important role in maintaining joint homeostasis and orchestrating local inflammatory processes. When activated during injury or inflammation, FLS undergo transiently increased bioenergetic and biosynthetic demand. We aimed to identify metabolic changes which occur early in inflammatory disease pathogenesis which might support sustained cellular activation in persistent inflammation. We took primary human FLS from synovial biopsies of patients with very early rheumatoid arthritis (veRA) or resolving synovitis, and compared them with uninflamed control samples from the synovium of people without arthritis. Metabotypes were compared using NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics and correlated with serum C-reactive protein levels. We measured glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation by Seahorse analysis and assessed mitochondrial morphology by immunofluorescence. We demonstrate differences in FLS metabolism measurable after ex vivo culture, suggesting that disease-associated metabolic changes are long-lasting. We term this phenomenon ‘metabolic memory’. We identify changes in cell metabolism after acute TNFα stimulation across disease groups. When compared to FLS from patients with early rheumatoid arthritis, FLS from patients with resolving synovitis have significantly elevated mitochondrial respiratory capacity in the resting state, and less fragmented mitochondrial morphology after TNFα treatment. Our findings indicate the potential to restore cell metabotypes by modulating mitochondrial function at sites of inflammation, with implications for treatment of RA and related inflammatory conditions in which fibroblasts play a role.
Carboxylicivirga marinus sp. nov., Isolated From Marine Sediment, and Genome Insight of the Genus Carboxylicivirga
Authors: Zhang Tian-Shu , Zhang Ya-Ning , Lu De-Chen , Gong Ya , Du Zong-Jun
Published: August 2021

A Gram-stain-negative, facultatively aerobic, beige and slender bacterium, designed N1Y132T, was isolated from a sediment sample taken from coastal zone of Weihai, China (37°34′31.44″ N, 122°9′15″ E). Growth occurred at 15-33°C (optimal 25–28°C), at pH 6.5–8.5 (optimal pH 7.5), in 0–9% (w/v) NaCl (optimal 2.0–2.5%). According to the phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain N1Y132T showed the highest sequence similarity (97.9%) with Carboxylicivirga taeanensis JCM 19490T, followed by C. sediminis JR1T (97.4%), C. mesophila JCM 18290T (96.4%) and C. linearis FB218T (95.1%). Thus, strain N1Y132T was a member of the genus Carboxylicivirga. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between strain N1Y132T and C. sediminis JR1T, C. linearis FB218T and C. mesophila JCM 18290T were 74.8%, 71.1%, and 74.9%, respectively. Chemotaxonomic analysis showed that the sole respiratory quinone was MK-7 and the major fatty acids (> 5.0%) included iso-C15:0, anteiso-C15:0, iso-C13:0, iso-C14:0, iso-C15:0 3-OH, and C15:1ω6c. The polar lipids were consisted of a phosphatidylethanolamine, two phosphoaminolipids and six unidentified lipids. The DNA G + C content was 38.1 mol%. Based on the evidence presented in this study, strain N1Y132T represents a novel species of the genus Carboxylicivirga, for which the name Carboxylicivirga marinus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is N1Y132T (= KCTC 72934T = MCCC 1H00431T).
Role of Immune Cell-Specific Hypermethylation Signatures in Classification and Risk Stratification of Breast Cancer
Authors: Chen Yong , Xia Fada , Jiang Bo , Wang Wenlong , Li Xinying
Published: August 2021

Background: Epigenetic regulation, including DNA methylation, plays a major role in shaping the identity and function of immune cells. Innate and adaptive immune cells recruited into tumor tissues contribute to the formation of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), which is closely involved in tumor progression in breast cancer (BC). However, the specific methylation signatures of immune cells have not been thoroughly investigated yet. Additionally, it remains unknown whether immune cells-specific methylation signatures can identify subgroups and stratify the prognosis of BC patients.

Methods: DNA methylation profiles of six immune cell types from eight datasets downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus were collected to identify immune cell-specific hypermethylation signatures (IC-SHMSs). Univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses were performed using BC data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas to identify the prognostic value of these IC-SHMSs. An unsupervised clustering analysis of the IC-SHMSs with prognostic value was performed to categorize BC patients into subgroups. Multiple Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to explore the role of IC-SHMSs and their relationship to clinical characteristics in the risk stratification of BC patients. Integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) was performed to determine whether the improvement of IC-SHMSs on clinical characteristics in risk stratification was statistically significant.

Results: A total of 655 IC-SHMSs of six immune cell types were identified. Thirty of them had prognostic value, and 10 showed independent prognostic value. Four subgroups of BC patients, which showed significant heterogeneity in terms of survival prognosis and immune landscape, were identified. The model incorporating nine IC-SHMSs showed similar survival prediction accuracy as the clinical model incorporating age and TNM stage [3-year area under the curve (AUC): 0.793 vs. 0.785; 5-year AUC: 0.735 vs. 0.761]. Adding the IC-SHMSs to the clinical model significantly improved its prediction accuracy in risk stratification (3-year AUC: 0.897; 5-year AUC: 0.856). The results of IDI validated the statistical significance of the improvement (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Our study suggests that IC-SHMSs may serve as signatures of classification and risk stratification in BC. Our findings provide new insights into epigenetic signatures, which may help improve subgroup identification, risk stratification, and treatment management.
Contextual Modulation of Binary Decisions in Dyadic Social Interactions
Authors: Fehr Thorsten , Achtziger Anja
Published: August 2021

The present experimental design allowed binary decisions (i.e., to choose between proactive approaching or withdrawing behavior). These decisions were made on complex social interaction scenarios displayed on videos. The videos were taken from a first-person perspective. They were preceded by one sentence each that provided additional information about the context of the displayed scenario. The sentence preceding the video and the video jointly provided a context of emotional valence. That context varied from trial to trial. We observed that provocative and threatening videos produced predominantly fear and anger responses. Fear was associated with withdrawal decisions, while anger led to approach decisions. Negative contextual information increased the probability of approach decisions in aggressive provocative videos; positive contextual information enhanced the chance of approach decisions in socially positive videos. In neutral situations, displayed in videos, the probability of the approach behavior was reduced in case of negative contextual information. Yet, the probability for approach behavior was increased if positive contextual information preceded neutral videos. Our experimental setup provided a paradigm that can be adapted and accommodated for the examination of future research questions on social decisions in multidimensional, complex social situations.
Positive and Negative Emotion Classification Based on Multi-channel
Authors: Long Fangfang , Zhao Shanguang , Wei Xin , Ng Siew-Cheok , Ni Xiaoli , Chi Aiping , Fang Peng , Zeng Weigang , Wei Bokun
Published: August 2021

The EEG features of different emotions were extracted based on multi-channel and forehead channels in this study. The EEG signals of 26 subjects were collected by the emotional video evoked method. The results show that the energy ratio and differential entropy of the frequency band can be used to classify positive and negative emotions effectively, and the best effect can be achieved by using an SVM classifier. When only the forehead and forehead signals are used, the highest classification accuracy can reach 66%. When the data of all channels are used, the highest accuracy of the model can reach 82%. After channel selection, the best model of this study can be obtained. The accuracy is more than 86%.
Effects of Biological Sex and Stress Exposure on Ventromedial Prefrontal Regulation of Mood-Related Behaviors
Authors: Wallace Tyler , Myers Brent
Published: August 2021

The ventral portion of the medial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) regulates mood, sociability, and context-dependent behaviors. Consequently, altered vmPFC activity has been implicated in the biological basis of emotional disorders. Recent methodological advances have greatly enhanced the ability to investigate how specific prefrontal cell populations regulate mood-related behaviors, as well as the impact of long-term stress on vmPFC function. However, emerging preclinical data identify prominent sexual divergence in vmPFC behavioral regulation and stress responsivity. Notably, the rodent infralimbic cortex (IL), a vmPFC subregion critical for anti-depressant action, shows marked functional divergence between males and females. Accordingly, this review examines IL encoding and modulation of mood-related behaviors, including coping style, reward, and sociability, with a focus on sex-based outcomes. We also review how these processes are impacted by prolonged stress exposure. Collectively, the data suggest that chronic stress has sex-specific effects on IL excitatory/inhibitory balance that may account for sex differences in the prevalence and course of mood disorders.
Prolonged Amphetamine Exposures Increase the Endogenous Human Dopamine Receptors 2 at the Cellular Membrane in Cells Lacking the Dopamine Transporter
Authors: Nawaratne Vindhya , McLaughlin Sean P. , Mayer Felix P. , Gichi Zayna , Mastriano Alyssa , Carvelli Lucia
Published: August 2021

The dopamine 2 receptors (D2R) are G-protein coupled receptors expressed both in pre- and post-synaptic terminals that play an important role in mediating the physiological and behavioral effects of amphetamine (Amph). Previous studies have indicated that the effects of Amph at the D2R mainly rely on the ability of Amph to robustly increase extracellular dopamine through the dopamine transporter (DAT). This implies that the effects of Amph on D2R require the neurotransmitter dopamine. However, because of its lipophilic nature, Amph can cross the cellular membrane and thus potentially affect D2R expression independently of dopamine and DAT, e.g., in post-synaptic terminals. Here we used an in vitro system to study whether Amph affects total expression, cellular distribution, and function of the human D2R (hD2R), endogenously expressed in HEK293 cells. By performing Western blot experiments, we found that prolonged treatments with 1 or 50 μM Amph cause a significant decrease of the endogenous hD2R in cells transfected with human DAT (hDAT). On the other hand, in cells lacking expression of DAT, quantification of the hD2R-mediated changes in cAMP, biotinylation assays, Western blots and imaging experiments demonstrated an increase of hD2R at the cellular membrane after 15-h treatments with Amph. Moreover, imaging data suggested that barbadin, a specific inhibitor of the βarrestin-βadaptin interaction, blocked the Amph-induced increase of hD2R. Taken together our data suggest that prolonged exposures to Amph decrease or increase the endogenous hD2R at the cellular membrane in HEK293 cells expressing or lacking hDAT, respectively. Considering that this drug is often consumed for prolonged periods, during which tolerance develops, our data suggest that even in absence of DAT or dopamine, Amph can still alter D2R distribution and function.
The EBRAINS NeuroFeatureExtract: An Online Resource for the Extraction of Neural Activity Features From Electrophysiological Data
Authors: Bologna Luca L. , Smiriglia Roberto , Curreri Dario , Migliore Michele
Published: August 2021

The description of neural dynamics, in terms of precise characterizations of action potential timings and shape and voltage related measures, is fundamental for a deeper understanding of the neural code and its information content. Not only such measures serve the scientific questions posed by experimentalists but are increasingly being used by computational neuroscientists for the construction of biophysically detailed data-driven models. Nonetheless, online resources enabling users to perform such feature extraction operation are lacking. To address this problem, in the framework of the Human Brain Project and the EBRAINS research infrastructure, we have developed and made available to the scientific community the NeuroFeatureExtract, an open-access online resource for the extraction of electrophysiological features from neural activity data. This tool allows to select electrophysiological traces of interest, fetched from public repositories or from users’ own data, and provides ad hoc functionalities to extract relevant features. The output files are properly formatted for further analysis, including data-driven neural model optimization.
Monoclonal Antibodies From Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis Patient as a Tool to Study Autoimmune Seizures
Authors: Taraschenko Olga , Fox Howard S. , Eldridge Ember , Wang Wenyi , Dowd Samuel W. , Al-Saleem Fetweh , Kattala Chandana Devi , Dessain Scott K. , Dingledine Raymond
Published: August 2021

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis manifests with precipitous cognitive decline, abnormal movements, and severe seizures that can be challenging to control with conventional anti-seizure medications. We previously demonstrated that intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of cerebrospinal fluid from affected patients, or purified NMDA receptor antibodies from encephalitis patients to mice precipitated seizures, thereby confirming that antibodies are directly pathogenic for seizures. Although different repertoires of anti-NMDA receptor antibodies could contribute to the distinct clinical manifestations in encephalitis patients, the role of specific antibodies in the expression of seizure, motor, and cognitive phenotypes remains unclear. Using three different patient-derived monoclonal antibodies with distinct epitopes within the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the NMDA receptor, we characterized the seizure burden, motor activity and anxiety-related behavior in mice. We found that continuous administration of 5F5, 2G6 or 3C11 antibodies for 2 weeks precipitated seizures, as measured with continuous EEG using cortical screw electrodes. The seizure burden was comparable in all three antibody-treated groups. The seizures were accompanied by increased hippocampal C-C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) mRNA expression 3 days after antibody infusion had stopped. Antibodies did not affect the motor performance or anxiety scores in mice. These findings suggest that neuronal antibodies targeting different epitopes within the NMDA receptor may result in a similar seizure phenotype.
SNAP-25 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, Brain Morphology and Intelligence in Children With Borderline Intellectual Functioning: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Blasi Valeria , Bolognesi Elisabetta , Ricci Cristian , Baglio Gisella , Zanzottera Milena , Canevini Maria Paola , Walder Mauro , Cabinio Monia , Zanette Michela , Baglio Francesca , Clerici Mario , Guerini Franca Rosa
Published: August 2021

Borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) is a multifactorial condition in which both genetic and environmental factors are likely to contribute to the clinical outcome. Abnormal cortical development and lower IQ scores were shown to be correlated in BIF children, but the genetic components of this condition and their possible connection with intelligence and brain morphology have never been investigated in BIF. The synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kD (SNAP-25) is involved in synaptic plasticity, neural maturation, and neurotransmission, affecting intellectual functioning. We investigated SNAP-25 polymorphisms in BIF and correlated such polymorphisms with intelligence and cortical thickness, using socioeconomic status and environmental stress as covariates as a good proxy of the variables that determine intellectual abilities. Thirty-three children with a diagnosis of BIF were enrolled in the study. SNAP-25 polymorphisms rs363050, rs363039, rs363043, rs3746544, and rs1051312 were analyzed by genotyping; cortical thickness was studied by MRI; intelligence was measured using the WISC-III/IV subscales; environmental stressors playing a role in neuropsychiatric development were considered as covariate factors. Results showed that BIF children carrying the rs363043(T) minor allele represented by (CT + TT) genotypes were characterized by lower performance Perceptual Reasoning Index and lower full-scale IQ scores (p = 0.04) compared to those carrying the (CC) genotype. This association was correlated with a reduced thickness of the left inferior parietal cortex (direct effect = 0.44) and of the left supramarginal gyrus (direct effect = 0.56). These results suggest a link between SNAP-25 polymorphism and intelligence with the mediation role of brain morphological features in children with BIF.
Clinical Pathological Features and Current Animal Models of Type 3 Macular Neovascularization
Authors: Qiang Wei , Wei Ran , Chen Yongjiang , Chen Danian
Published: August 2021

Type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV3), or retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP), is a distinct type of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss in older persons. During the past decade, systematic investigation into the clinical, multimodal imaging, and histopathological features and therapeutic outcomes has provided important new insight into this disease. These studies favor the retinal origin of MNV3 and suggest the involvement of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, von Hippel–Lindau (VHL)–hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, and multiple cell types in the development and progression of MNV3. Several mouse models, including the recently builtRb/p107/Vhltriple knockout mouse model by our group, have induced many of the histological features of MNV3 and provided much insight into the underlying pathological mechanisms. These models have revealed the roles of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, VHL/HIF pathway, and retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (Rb)–E2F cell cycle pathway in the development of MNV3. This article will summarize the clinical, multimodal imaging, and pathological features of MNV3 and the diversity of animal models that exist for MNV3, as well as their strengths and limitations.
Application of Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Miao Lele , Zhang Zhengchao , Ren Zhijian , Li Yumin
Published: August 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies globally. It not only has a hidden onset but also progresses rapidly. Most HCC patients are already in the advanced stage of cancer when they are diagnosed, and have even lost the opportunity for surgical treatment. As an inflammation-related tumor, the immunosuppressive microenvironment of HCC can promote immune tolerance through a variety of mechanisms. Immunotherapy can activate tumor-specific immune responses, which brings a new hope for the treatment of HCC. At the present time, main immunotherapy strategies of HCC include immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and so on. This article reviews the application and research progress of immune checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapy in the treatment of HCC.
Novel Microcrystal Formulations of Sorafenib Facilitate a Long-Acting Antitumor Effect and Relieve Treatment Side Effects as Observed With Fundus Microcirculation Imaging
Authors: Wang Junxiao , Liu Rui , Zhao Yun , Ma Zhenhu , Sang Zejie , Wen Zhenyu , Yang Xueling , Xie Hui
Published: August 2021

The tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), including sorafenib, remain one first-line antitumor treatment strategy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, many problems exist with the current orally administered TKIs, creating a heavy medical burden and causing severe side effects. In this work, we prepared a novel microcrystalline formulation of sorafenib that not only achieved sustainable release and long action in HCC tumors but also relieved side effects, as demonstrated by fundus microcirculation imaging. The larger the size of the microcrystalline formulation of sorafenib particle, the slower the release rates of sorafenib from the tumor tissues. The microcrystalline formulation of sorafenib with the largest particle size was named as Sor-MS. One intratumor injection (once administration) of Sor-MS, but not Sor-Sol (the solution formulation of sorafenib as a control), could slow the release of sorafenib in HCC tumor tissues and in turn inhibited the in vivo proliferation of HCC or the expression of EMT/pro-survival–related factors in a long-acting manner. Moreover, compared with oral administration, one intratumor injection of Sor-MS not only facilitated a long-acting antitumor effect but also relieved side effects of sorafenib, avoiding damage to the capillary network of the eye fundus, as evidenced by fundus microcirculation imaging. Therefore, preparing sorafenib as a novel microcrystal formulation could facilitate a long-acting antitumor effect and relieve drug-related side effects.
A Cost-Efficient RGB Laser-Based Visible Light Communication System by Incorporating Hybrid Wavelength and Polarization Division Multiplexing Schemes
Authors: Xiang-Peng CAI
Published: August 2021

Visible light communication (VLC) has been proven a promising technology to counter the limitations of radio frequency (RF) communication technology such as high interference and high latency issues. VLC offers high bandwidth as well as immunity to interference from other electromagnetic spectrums. Due to these features, VLC can be an excellent solution for biomedical and healthcare applications for transmission of body sensor signals and other crucial patient information. In this work, a highly efficient VLC system is designed to transmit six channels, with each one carrying 10 Gbps of data, over a 500 m optical fiber link and a 200 cm VLC link. To make the VLC system cost effective, simple and efficient on-off keying (OOK) (non-return to zero) is used as the encoding scheme. Moreover, to further enhance the capacity and bandwidth of the proposed VLC system, hybrid wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) and polarization division multiplexing (PDM) schemes are incorporated by using red, green, and blue lasers. The reported results show the successful transmission of all channels (6 × 10 Gbps) over 500 m optical fiber and 200 cm of VLC link.