bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conhecimentos matemáticos para o ensino evidenciados em escritas reflexivas de futuros professores de Matemática
Authors: Santos Alisson Henrique dos , Santos Edilaine Regina dos
Published: July 2022

Este artigo apresenta resultados de uma investigação que teve como um de seus objetivos identificar Conhecimentos Matemáticos para o Ensino de futuros professores de Matemática evidenciados em escritas reflexivas. Realizada sob uma perspectiva qualitativa e interpretativa a pesquisa lançou um olhar para escritas reflexivas de futuros professores de Matemática. As análises dos registros reflexivos dos licenciandos, produzidos em um caderno, foram pautadas em considerações a respeito de Conhecimentos Matemáticos para o Ensino de Ball, Thames e Phelps (2008). Por meio delas, foi possível identificar, dentre outros, que os licenciandos refletiram sobre seu futuro como professores de Matemática, indicando possíveis dificuldades ou oportunidades para aplicar as estratégias reconhecidas nas aulas; apresentaram alguma dificuldade/falha/fraqueza em relação ao conteúdo ou ao ensino deste indicando uma possível causa e possibilidade em como poderiam superá-las; construir um inventário de ações presentes nas escritas reflexivas dos licenciandos que oportunizou a identificação dos Conhecimentos Matemáticos para o Ensino.
PENYESUAIAN DIRI DAN KONFORMITAS TERHADAP ETOS BELAJAR MAHASISWA DALAM PEMBELAJARAN DARING
Authors: Mawardah Mutia , Effendi Fathulul Amri
Published: July 2022

This study aims to determine the relationship between self-adjustment and peer conformity with students' learning ethos in bold learning. The hypothesis proposed in this research is that there is a relationship between self-adjustment and peer conformity with students' learning ethos in bold learning, secondly there is a relationship between self-adjustment and students' learning ethos in courageous learning, and so on there is a relationship between peer conformity and student learning ethos in dare to learn. The population of this study were students at Bina Darma University Palembang with a total of 320 active students who were determined by adapting Isaac and Michael's table based on an error rate of 5% with the distribution of test subjects to 200 students while the remaining 120 were as samples in the study. Data collection was obtained by using a probability sampling technique, namely simple random sampling. It was stated simply because in selecting sample members from the population it was carried out randomly without regard to the existing strata in the population. The results of multiple regression research using the SPSS program show a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.915, a coefficient of determination (R Square) of 0.837 and a value of p = 0.000 p <0.05. The results of the analysis show that there is a very significant relationship between self-adjustment and student learning ethos in online learning.
THE EVOLUTION OF TURKISH-RUSSIAN RELATIONS IN THE 21st CENTURY: THE POTENTIAL FOR PRAGMATISM
Authors: A. M. BAICHOROV , ALI HAZER DENIZ
Published: July 2022

The article presents an overview of the Turkish foreign policy strategy and its implications for the development of
Turkish-Russian relations. The bilateral relationship is viewed in the context of the Turkish-Russian summit of 2021 which
became an important landmark gave an impetus to the future growth of the Turkish-Russian relationship. The influence of
the international context on the Turkish-Russian rapprochement is also addressed.
NON-STATE ACTORS AS QUASI-SUBJECTS OF TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED CRIME: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE SECURITY OF STATES
Authors: V. V. МЕRКUSHIN
Published: July 2022

We discuss the legal status of non-state actors in the context of the global fight against transnational organised crime
and the security of states. We address the topic from the perspectives of international law (including criminal law), international security and human rights. We conclude that non-state actors such as multinational corporations, private military and
security companies, and non-governmental organisations may become quasi-actors of transnational organised crime. Contributing to this probability are their uncertain legal status under international law, certain corporate practices and attitudes,
obscure financial flows, and vulnerability of international and national public authorities to corrupt practices, among others.
Scholarly Impact of Core Econometrics Journals: A Catalog and Citations-Based Ranking
Authors: MİXON Franklin , UPADHYAYA Kamal
Published: July 2022

With 23 core econometrics journals now in operation, this study fills a gap in the literature by cataloguing the editorial specifications of each journal, and, more importantly, assessing their impact based on citations to research published in each over the 15-year period beginning in 2001 and ending in 2015. Our investigation reveals that about one-half of all core econometrics journals publish in an online format only, while the others publish both online and in-print. About one-fourth of all core econometrics journals are affiliated with an academic organization or society, while the same number are published by either Elsevier, Springer or Wiley. In terms of our assessment, Econometrica, Journal of Econometrics and Journal of Applied Econometrics sit atop our citations index ranking, while the relatively-new Journal of Financial Econometrics breaks into the top five, and other younger journals, such as the Journal of Econometric Methods and Econometrics, also make a strong showing in what is the first academic study assessing their productivity.
Pelaksanaan Metode Ular Tangga pada Kelas Ibu Hamil Terhadap Peningkatan Pengetahuan Ibu tentang Tanda Bahaya Kehamilan
Authors: Kaparang Mercy Joice , Farhah Baharta  , Lisnawati Lisnawati
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The continuous implementation of classes for pregnant women using the lecture method makes mothers feel bored. The snake and ladder method with several pregnant women as players and midwives as resource persons is expected to be able to provide a new atmosphere in the implementation of the class for pregnant women. The purpose:  Of this study was to determine the effect of implementing the snake and ladder method in the class of pregnant women on increasing the knowledge of pregnant women about the danger signs of pregnancy.  Methods:  This type of research is Pre Experiment with a one group pretest-posttest design. The population in this study were all pregnant women in the Mamboro Public Health Center area. The sample is 30 respondents, with a simple random sampling technique using the Slovin formula. Data analysis used the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test.  Result:  The results showed that there was an increase in knowledge from moderate to good, with the test results obtained a value of P=0,000 that there was an effect of implementing the snake and ladder method in pregnant women's classes on increasing mother's knowledge. Suggestion:  Mamboro health centers are expected to use the research results as a reference source in providing health services, especially activities for pregnant women.
ABSTRAK
Pendahuluan: Pelaksanaan kelas ibu hamil secara terus menerus dengan metode ceramah membuat para ibu mengalami kejenuhan. Metode ular tangga dengan beberapa orang ibu hamil menjadi pemain dan bidan sebagai narasumber diharapkan mampu memberikan suasana baru dalam pelaksanaan kelas ibu hamil. Tujuan mengetahui pengaruh pelaksanaan metode ular tangga pada kelas ibu hamil terhadap peningkatan pengetahuan ibu hamil tentang tanda bahaya kehamilan. Metode: Jenis penelitian ini adalah Pre Experimen dengan desain one group pretest-postest. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah semua ibu hamil di wilayah puskesmas mamboro. Sampel  berjumlah 30 responden, dengan teknik simple random sampling menggunakan rumus slovin. Analisis data menggunakan uji Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada peningkatan pengetahuan dari cukup menjadi baik, dengan hasil uji di peroleh nilai P=0,000 bahwa terdapat pengaruh pelaksanaan metode ular tangga pada kelas ibu hamil terhadap peningkatan pengetahuan ibu. Saran: Kepada pihak puskesmas Mamboro diharapkan memanfaatkan hasil penelitian sebagai sumber rujukan dalam memberikan pelayanan kesehatan khususnya kegiatan pada kelas ibu hamil.
Epigenetic Mechanism of Early Life Stress-Induced Depression: Focus on the Neurotransmitter Systems
Authors: Cheng Ziqian , Su Jingyun , Zhang Kai , Jiang Huiyi , Li Bingjin
Published: July 2022

Depression has an alarmingly high prevalence worldwide. A growing body of evidence indicates that environmental factors significantly affect the neural development and function of the central nervous system and then induce psychiatric disorders. Early life stress (ELS) affects brain development and has been identified as a major cause of depression. It could promote susceptibility to stress in adulthood. Recent studies have found that ELS induces epigenetic changes that subsequently affect transcriptional rates of differentially expressed genes. The epigenetic modifications involved in ELS include histone modifications, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA. Understanding of these genetic modifications may identify mechanisms that may lead to new interventions for the treatment of depression. Many reports indicate that different types of ELS induce epigenetic modifications of genes involved in the neurotransmitter systems, such as the dopaminergic system, the serotonergic system, the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic system, and the glutamatergic system, which further regulate gene expression and ultimately induce depression-like behaviors. In this article, we review the effects of epigenetic modifications on the neurotransmitter systems in depression-like outcomes produced by different types of ELS in recent years, aiming to provide new therapeutic targets for patients who suffer from depression.
The Role of Spastin in Axon Biology
Authors: Costa Ana Catarina , Sousa Monica Mendes
Published: July 2022

Neurons are highly polarized cells with elaborate shapes that allow them to perform their function. In neurons, microtubule organization—length, density, and dynamics—are essential for the establishment of polarity, growth, and transport. A mounting body of evidence shows that modulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton by microtubule-associated proteins fine tunes key aspects of neuronal cell biology. In this respect, microtubule severing enzymes—spastin, katanin and fidgetin—a group of microtubule-associated proteins that bind to and generate internal breaks in the microtubule lattice, are emerging as key modulators of the microtubule cytoskeleton in different model systems. In this review, we provide an integrative view on the latest research demonstrating the key role of spastin in neurons, specifically in the context of axonal cell biology. We focus on the function of spastin in the regulation of microtubule organization, and axonal transport, that underlie its importance in the intricate control of axon growth, branching and regeneration.
Visible-Light Stiffness Patterning of GelMA Hydrogels Towards In Vitro Scar Tissue Models
Authors: Chalard Anaïs E. , Dixon Alexander W. , Taberner Andrew J. , Malmström Jenny
Published: July 2022

Variations in mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix occurs in various processes, such as tissue fibrosis. The impact of changes in tissue stiffness on cell behaviour are studied in vitro using various types of biomaterials and methods. Stiffness patterning of hydrogel scaffolds, through the use of stiffness gradients for instance, allows the modelling and studying of cellular responses to fibrotic mechanisms. Gelatine methacryloyl (GelMA) has been used extensively in tissue engineering for its inherent biocompatibility and the ability to precisely tune its mechanical properties. Visible light is now increasingly employed for crosslinking GelMA hydrogels as it enables improved cell survival when performing cell encapsulation. We report here, the photopatterning of mechanical properties of GelMA hydrogels with visible light and eosin Y as the photoinitiator using physical photomasks and projection with a digital micromirror device. Using both methods, binary hydrogels with areas of different stiffnesses and hydrogels with stiffness gradients were fabricated. Their mechanical properties were characterised using force indentation with atomic force microscopy, which showed the efficiency of both methods to spatially pattern the elastic modulus of GelMA according to the photomask or the projected pattern. Crosslinking through projection was also used to build constructs with complex shapes. Overall, this work shows the feasibility of patterning the stiffness of GelMA scaffolds, in the range from healthy to pathological stiffness, with visible light. Consequently, this method could be used to build in vitro models of healthy and fibrotic tissue and study the cellular behaviours involved at the interface between the two.
10-Year Retrospective Review of the Etiologies for Meningitis With Elevated Adenosine Deaminase in Cerebrospinal Fluid: Etiologies Other Than TB
Authors: Song Joomee , Kim Si-Ho , Jung Yi-Rang , Choe Junsu , Kang Cheol-In , Min Ju-Hong
Published: July 2022

Purpose

An elevated adenosine deaminase (ADA) level in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is considered a reliable marker of tuberculous meningitis (TBM). However, CSF-ADA levels can also be elevated in other diseases. We aimed to find the most common diagnosis of patients with elevated CSF-ADA levels for the last 10 years.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated the diagnoses of all patients with elevated CSF-ADA (ADA ≥ 10 IU/L) levels between 2010 and 2019 at the Samsung Medical Center. Definite TBM was defined based on microbiological evidence. Clinical TBM was defined based on the brain imaging and response to the standard TB treatment. We compared the laboratory characteristics of the three most common diagnoses.

Results

CSF-ADA levels were elevated in 137 (5.6%) of 2,600 patients. The most common diagnoses included hematologic malignancy (HM; n = 36, 26.2%), TBM (n = 26, 19.0%), and viral meningitis (VM; n = 25, 18.2%). CSF-ADA levels did not differ significantly between TBM [median (interquartile range (IQR)), 20.2 IU/L (13.8–29.3)] and HM [16.5 (12.8–24.0)]. However, CSF-ADA levels were lower in VM [14.0 (11.0–16.1)] than in TBM (p = 0.027). Lymphocyte-dominant pleocytosis was more common in VM [77.0% (70.8–81.5)] than in TBM [16.0 (3.0–51.0), p = 0.015] or HM [36.0 (10.0–72.0); p = 0.032]. Interestingly, the CSF characteristics of clinical TBM were similar to those of VM but not definite TBM.

Conclusion

The most common diagnoses with elevated CSF-ADA levels were HM, followed by TBM and VM. Clinicians should carefully consider the differential diagnoses in patients with elevated CSF-ADA levels, especially those in the early stage of meningitis without microbiological evidence for TBM.
In Vitro Interactions of Antifungal Agents and Everolimus Against Aspergillus Species
Authors: Jiang Huiping , Xiong Jianqun , Tan Lihua , Jin Ping , Sun Yi , Yang Lianjuan , Tan Jingwen
Published: July 2022

Multiple cellular activities, including protein and lipid synthesis, ribosome biogenesis, and metabolic processes, are regulated by the target of rapamycin (TOR) pathway. Recent research suggests that the TOR might play an important role in various physiological functions of pathogenic fungi, such as nutrient sensing, stress response, and cell cycle progression. Given their robust immunosuppressant and antitumor activities, TOR inhibitors are widely used in clinical settings. In the present study, a microdilution checkerboard-based approach was employed to assess the interactions between the oral mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus (EVL) and antifungal agents in the treatment of Aspergillus species derived from 35 clinical isolates in vitro. The results revealed that EVL exhibited promising inhibitory synergy with itraconazole (ITC), posaconazole (POS), and amphotericin B (AMB) for 85.7%, 74.2%, and 71.4%, respectively. In contrast, EVL exhibited minimal synergistic inhibitory activity (14.3%) when applied in combination with voriconazole (VRC). Antagonistic interactions were not observed. In vivo experiments conducted in Galleria mellonella revealed that EVL in combination with antifungal agents improved the larva survival rates in the ITC, VRC, POS, and AMB groups by 18.3%, 13.3%, 26.7%, and 13.3%, respectively. These data suggest that the combination treatment with antifungal agents and antifungal agents holds promise as a means of alleviating clinical aspergillosis.
Battle for Metals: Regulatory RNAs at the Front Line
Authors: Charbonnier Mathilde , González-Espinoza Gabriela , Kehl-Fie Thomas E. , Lalaouna David
Published: July 2022

Metal such as iron, zinc, manganese, and nickel are essential elements for bacteria. These nutrients are required in crucial structural and catalytic roles in biological processes, including precursor biosynthesis, DNA replication, transcription, respiration, and oxidative stress responses. While essential, in excess these nutrients can also be toxic. The immune system leverages both of these facets, to limit bacterial proliferation and combat invaders. Metal binding immune proteins reduce the bioavailability of metals at the infection sites starving intruders, while immune cells intoxicate pathogens by providing metals in excess leading to enzyme mismetallation and/or reactive oxygen species generation. In this dynamic metal environment, maintaining metal homeostasis is a critical process that must be precisely coordinated. To achieve this, bacteria utilize diverse metal uptake and efflux systems controlled by metalloregulatory proteins. Recently, small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) have been revealed to be critical post-transcriptional regulators, working in conjunction with transcription factors to promote rapid adaptation and to fine-tune bacterial adaptation to metal abundance. In this mini review, we discuss the expanding role for sRNAs in iron homeostasis, but also in orchestrating adaptation to the availability of other metals like manganese and nickel. Furthermore, we describe the sRNA-mediated interdependency between metal homeostasis and oxidative stress responses, and how regulatory networks controlled by sRNAs contribute to survival and virulence.
The Last Glacial Maximum and Deglacial History of the Seno Skyring Ice Lobe (52°S), Southern Patagonia
Authors: Lira María-Paz , García Juan-Luis , Bentley Michael J. , Jamieson Stewart S. R. , Darvill Christopher M. , Hein Andrew S. , Fernández Hans , Rodés Ángel , Fabel Derek , Smedley Rachel K. , Binnie Steven A.
Published: July 2022

There are still many uncertainties about the climatic forcing that drove the glacier fluctuations of the Patagonian Ice Sheet (PIS, 38–55°S) during the last glacial period. A key source of uncertainty is the asynchrony of ice lobe fluctuations between the northern, central, and southern PIS. To fully understand the regional trends requires careful mapping and extensive geochronological studies. This paper presents geomorphological and geochronological reconstructions of the glacial and deglacial landforms formed during the last glacial period at the Seno Skyring lobe, southernmost Patagonia (52°S, 71°W). We present a detailed geomorphological map, where we identify two moraine systems. The outer and older is named Laguna Blanca (LB) and the inner Río Verde (RV). The LB moraines were built subaerially, whereas parts of the RV were deposited subaqueously under the palaeo lake Laguna Blanca, which developed during deglaciation. We conducted surface exposure 10Be dating methods on boulder samples collected from LB and RV glacial margins. The moraine LB III and LB IV formed at 26.3 ± 2.3 ka (n = 5) and 24.3 ± 0.9 ka (n = 3), respectively. For the inner RV moraine, we obtained an age of 18.7 ± 1.5 ka (n = 6). For the palaeo Laguna Blanca evolution, we performed 10Be exposure ages on shoreline berms and optically stimulated luminesce dating to constrain the lake levels, and 10Be depth profile dating on an outwash deposit formed by a partial lake drainage event, which occurred at 22 ± 3 ka. For the RV moraine deglaciation, we performed radiocarbon dating of basal sediments in a peat bog, which indicates that the glacier retreated from the terminal RV moraine by at least c. 16.4 cal kyr BP. Our moraine geochronology shows an asynchrony in the maximum extents and a different pattern of ice advances between neighbouring lobes in southern Patagonia. We speculate that this may be due, at least in part, to the interaction between topography and the precipitation carried by the southern westerly wind belt. However, we found broad synchrony of glacial readvances contemporaneous with the RV moraine.
Toward Real-Time Determination of Yield Coefficients of Early-Stage Electroactive Biofilms by Optical Microscopy
Authors: Scarabotti Francesco , Kuchenbuch Anne , Kallies René , Bühler Katja , Harnisch Falk
Published: July 2022

Physiological cellular parameters, such as latency times (lagt), cell production rates (CPR), doubling times (td), relative growth rates (RGR), and yield coefficients (YNe), are only known as endpoint measurements for electroactive microorganisms (EAM). Here we show that these can be gained non-invasively and in real-time for early-stage biofilm formation at electrodes using a microfluidic electrochemical flow-cell (EFC) allowing in vivo optical microscopy. Parameters obtained for early-stage mixed culture biofilm anodes formed at +150 mV vs. Ag/AgCl sat. KCl have lagt of 2.31–4.58 days, CPR of 0.72–1.20 × 105 cells h−1, td of 176.54–1838.65 min, RGR of 0.02–0.27 h−1, and YNe of 5.99–7.94 × 1012 cells mole-−1. However, oxygen permeation into the EFC was the main problem that remained unsolved during the study that provides interesting lessons for future improvements.
Harmful or Beneficial to Humans and the Environment? An Empirical Study on the Social Acceptance and Risk Perception of CO2-Based Fuels
Authors: Linzenich Anika , Engelmann Linda , Arning Katrin , Du Miaomiao , Heger Sebastian , Roß-Nickoll Martina , Ziefle Martina
Published: July 2022

Risk analysis and assessment of toxic effects are important elements to be considered in the development of renewable fuels, such as CO2-based fuels made from CO2, water, and renewable energy. However, the successful introduction of CO2-based fuels could also be affected by public concerns about possible risks and adverse effects on health and the environment. In order to examine risk perceptions of laypeople for CO2-based fuels and to understand if they can act as a barrier for the public acceptance of these fuels, we carried out an online survey with German laypeople. A special focus was placed on perceptions of toxic effects such as beliefs about exposure pathways and resulting health impacts, but also on participants’ openness towards CO2-based fuels. Results showed that CO2-based fuels were seen as an acceptable and beneficial technology and risks were perceived to be low. By tendency, lower risk perceptions were related to a higher acceptance of CO2-based fuels. The overall risk judgment was impacted by fears about toxic effects, concerns about environmental pollution, and the perceived general harmfulness of CO2-based fuels. The general openness towards CO2-based fuels was revealed to affect risk perceptions and beliefs about toxic effects: A higher openness towards the topic was linked to less severe concerns about CO2-based fuels. The findings from this study provide valuable insights on how to develop communication concepts to inform laypeople about possible risks and benefits of CO2-based fuels to address their concerns and information demands and give them a better understanding of the effects of toxic substances on different risk targets.
The Pricing of ESG: Evidence From Overnight Return and Intraday Return
Authors: Liu Xiaoqun , Yang Changrong , Chao Youcong
Published: July 2022

By featuring the link of investor heterogeneity to the persistence of the overnight and intraday components of returns, we examine the ESG–overnight (intraday) alpha relation in the Chinese stock market. The empirical results show that ESG score has a significantly negative effect on the expected stock overnight returns in Fama–MacBeth regression. Consistently, given the biggest market capitalization and the least illiquidity subsamples, the trading strategies by going long (short) the top (bottom) ESG quintile would yield negative profits. In addition, we conduct the implication of the ESG pricing by dividing the full sample into green stock subsample and sin stock subsample, and the empirical results present that the ESG pricing is pervasive of the green-type stocks. These conclusions verify the pricing of ESG and support the conjecture that green stocks have lower expected returns because ESG investors value sustainability.
Uncovering ‘Hidden’ Signals: Previously Presumed Visual Signals Likely Generate Air Particle Movement
Authors: Kundu Pallabi , Choi Noori , Rundus Aaron S. , Santer Roger D. , Hebets Eileen A.
Published: July 2022

Wolf spiders within the genus Schizocosa have become a model system for exploring the form and function of multimodal communication. In terms of male signaling, much past research has focused on the role and importance of dynamic and static visual and substrate-borne vibratory communication. Studies on S. retrorsa, however, have found that female-male pairs were able to successfully mate in the absence of both visual and vibratory stimuli, suggesting a reduced or non-existent role of these signaling modalities in this species. Given these prior findings, it has been suggested that S. retrorsa males may utilize an additional signaling modality during courtship—air particle movement, often referred to as near-field sound—which they likely produce with rapid leg waving and receive using thin filiform sensory hairs called trichobothria. In this study, we tested the role of air-particle movement in mating success by conducting two independent sets of mating trials with randomly paired S. retrorsa females and males in the dark and on granite (i.e., without visual or vibratory signals) in two different signaling environments—(i) without (“No Noise”) and (ii) with (“Noise”) introduced air-particle movement intended to disrupt signaling in that modality. We also ran foraging trials in No Noise/Noise environments to explore the impact of our treatments on overall behavior. Across both mating experiments, our treatments significantly impacted mating success, with more mating in the No Noise signaling environments compared to the Noise environments. The rate of leg waving—a previously assumed visual dynamic movement that has also been shown to be able to produce air particle displacement—was higher in the No Noise than Noise environments. Across both treatments, males with higher rates of leg waving had higher mating success. In contrast to mating trials results, foraging success was not influenced by Noise. Our results indicate that artificially induced air particle movement disrupts successful mating and alters male courtship signaling but does not interfere with a female’s ability to receive and assess the rate of male leg waving.
Causal Relationships Between Total Physical Activity and Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Hu Shaojun , Xing Hongyuan , Wang Xingchen , Zhang Ning , Xu Qiang
Published: July 2022

Background

Currently, there is little literature about the association between physical activity (PA) and the risk of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The present study aimed to understand the causal relationships between PA and AS.

Methods

We performed two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) using publicly released genome-wide association studies summary statistics to estimate the causal associations of PA with AS risk. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized as primary MR analysis. Furthermore, sensitivity, pleiotropy, and heterogeneity analyses were then conducted to assess the robustness of the findings of the present study.

Results

Results of the IVW analysis suggested a protective relationship between accelerometer-based PA and AS (average acceleration, odds ratio [OR] = 0.9995, 95% CI, 0.9988–0.9999, P = 0.014). On the contrary, there was no causal relationship between accelerometer-based PA (acceleration fraction >425 mg; OR = 0.9981, 95% CI = 0.9936–1.0026, P = 0.402) and AS. Furthermore, there was no significant relationship between self-reported vigorous PA and AS (OR = 1.0005, 95% CI = 0.9875–1.0136, P = 0.943), or even between self-reported moderate-to-vigorous PA and AS (OR = 1.0000, 95% CI, 0.9947–1.0052; P = 0.990).

Conclusions

The use of genetic approach in the present study revealed that total physical activity (TPA) has a protective relationship with AS risk. Furthermore, it was evident that vigorous PA or moderate-to-vigorous physical levels are not causally associated with AS. Therefore, the present study evidently supports the hypothesis that enhancing TPA rather than PA intensity is an effective prevention strategy for AS.
Brief Research Report: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Immunity in Long Lasting Responders to Cancer Immunotherapy Through mRNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Sisteré-Oró Marta , Wortmann Diana D. J. , Andrade Naína , Aguilar Andres , Mayo de las Casas Clara , Casabal Florencia Garcia , Torres Susana , Bona Salinas Eduardo , Raventos Soler Laura , Arcas Andrea , Esparre Carlos , Garcia Beatriz , Valarezo Joselyn , Rosell Rafael , Güerri-Fernandez Roberto , Gonzalez-Cao Maria , Meyerhans Andreas
Published: July 2022

Cancer patients (CPs) have been identified as particularly vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and therefore are a priority group for receiving COVID-19 vaccination. From the patients with advanced solid tumors, about 20% respond very efficiently to immunotherapy with anti-PD1/PD-L1 antibodies and achieve long lasting cancer responses. It is unclear whether an efficient cancer-specific immune response may also correlate with an efficient response upon COVID-19 vaccination. Here, we explored the antiviral immune response to the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine BNT162b2 in a group of 11 long-lasting cancer immunotherapy responders. We analysed the development of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG serum antibodies, virus neutralizing capacities and T cell responses. Control groups included patients treated with adjuvant cancer immunotherapy (IMT, cohort B), CPs not treated with immunotherapy (no-IMT, cohort C) and healthy controls (cohort A). The median ELISA IgG titers significantly increased after the prime-boost COVID vaccine regimen in all cohorts (Cohort A: pre-vaccine = 900 (100-2700), 3 weeks (w) post-boost = 24300 (2700-72900); Cohort B: pre-vaccine = 300 (100-2700), 3 w post-boost = 8100 (300-72900); Cohort C: pre-vaccine = 500 (100-2700), 3 w post-boost = 24300 (300-72900)). However, at the 3 w post-prime time-point, only the healthy control group showed a statistically significant increase in antibody levels (Cohort A = 8100 (900-8100); Cohort B = 900 (300-8100); Cohort C = 900 (300-8100)) (P < 0.05). Strikingly, while all healthy controls generated high-level antibody responses after the complete prime-boost regimen (Cohort A = 15/15 (100%), not all CPs behaved alike [Cohort B= 12/14 (84'6%); Cohort C= 5/6 (83%)]. Their responses, including those of the long-lasting immunotherapy responders, were more variable (Cohort A: 3 w post-boost (median nAb titers = 95.32 (84.09-96.93), median Spike-specific IFN-γ response = 64 (24-150); Cohort B: 3 w post-boost (median nAb titers = 85.62 (8.22-97.19), median Spike-specific IFN-γ response (28 (1-372); Cohort C: 3 w post-boost (median nAb titers = 95.87 (11.8-97.3), median Spike-specific IFN-γ response = 67 (20-84)). Two long-lasting cancer responders did not respond properly to the prime-boost vaccination and did not generate S-specific IgGs, neutralizing antibodies or virus-specific T cells, although their cancer immune control persisted for years. Thus, although mRNA-based vaccines can induce both antibody and T cell responses in CPs, the immune response to COVID vaccination is independent of the capacity to develop an efficient anti-cancer immune response to anti PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies.
RGD-Labeled Hemocytes With High Migration Activity Display a Potential Immunomodulatory Role in the Pacific Oyster Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Lv Zhao , Qiu Limei , Wang Weilin , Liu Zhaoqun , Liu Qing , Wang Lingling , Song Linsheng
Published: July 2022

Immunocyte migration to infection sites is important for host cellular defense, but the main types of migrating hemocytes and their mechanisms against pathogen invasions are unclear in invertebrates. In the present study, a population of hemocytes in the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas labeled with a fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-containing peptide was sorted. RGD+ hemocytes were characterized by a smaller cell size and cytoplasmic-nucleo ratio, fewer cytoplasmic granules, and higher levels of myeloperoxidase, reactive oxygen species, and intracellular free calcium concentration. RGD+ hemocytes exhibited a high level of migration activity, which was further induced after V. splendidus infection. Transcriptome analysis revealed that RGD+ hemocytes highly expressed a series of migration-related genes, which together with migration-promoting genes were significantly upregulated after V. splendidus infection. The neuroendocrine system was also proven to regulate the migration activity of RGD+ hemocytes, especially with the excitatory neuroendocrine factor dopamine, which promoted migration activity as confirmed by receptor blocking assays. Meanwhile, RGD+ hemocytes could highly express immunomodulatory factor interleukin (IL)-17s and their receptor genes, which was positively related to the production of antimicrobial peptides in whole hemocytes after V. splendidus infection. Collectively, this study identified a specific hemocyte population, i.e., RGD+ hemocytes, that shows high migration activity in response to pathogen infection and exerts a potential immunomodulatory role by highly expressing IL-17s that might enhance the hemocytes’ antimicrobial peptide production in oysters.
Endothelial Cells as a Key Cell Type for Innate Immunity: A Focused Review on RIG-I Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu Suowen , Jin Tengchuan , Weng Jianping
Published: July 2022

The vascular endothelium consists of a highly heterogeneous monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs) which are the primary target for bacterial and viral infections due to EC’s constant and close contact with the bloodstream. Emerging evidence has shown that ECs are a key cell type for innate immunity. Like macrophages, ECs serve as sentinels when sensing invading pathogens or microbial infection caused by viruses and bacteria. It remains elusive how ECs senses danger signals, transduce the signal and fulfil immune functions. Retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I, gene name also known as DDX58) is an important member of RIG-I-like receptor (RLR) family that functions as an important pathogen recognition receptor (PRR) to execute immune surveillance and confer host antiviral response. Recent studies have demonstrated that virus infection, dsRNA, dsDNA, interferons, LPS, and 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) can increase RIG-1 expression in ECs and propagate anti-viral response. Of translational significance, RIG-I activation can be inhibited by Panax notoginseng saponins, endogenous PPARγ ligand 15-PGJ2, tryptanthrin and 2-animopurine. Considering the pivotal role of inflammation and innate immunity in regulating endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, here we provided a concise review of the role of RIG-I in endothelial cell function and highlight future direction to elucidate the potential role of RIG-I in regulating cardiovascular diseases as well as virus infectious disease, including COVID-19. Furthered understanding of RIG-I-mediated signaling pathways is important to control disorders associated with altered immunity and inflammation in ECs.
From Bacteria to Zooplankton: An Integrative Approach Revealing Regional Spatial Patterns During the Spring Phytoplankton Bloom in the Southern Bight of the North Sea
Authors: Aubert Anaïs , Beauchard Olivier , de Blok Reinhoud , Artigas Luis Felipe , Sabbe Koen , Vyverman Wim , Martínez Luz Amadei , Deneudt Klaas , Louchart Arnaud , Mortelmans Jonas , Rijkeboer Machteld , Debusschere Elisabeth
Published: July 2022

Plankton comprises a large diversity of organisms, from pico- to macro-sized classes, and spans several trophic levels, whose population dynamics are characterized by a high spatio-temporal variability. Studies integrating multiple plankton groups, in respect to size classes and trophic levels, are still rare, which hampers a more thorough description and elucidation of the full complexity of plankton dynamics. Here, we present a study on the spatial variability of five in-situ monitored plankton components, ranging from bacteria to meso-zooplankton, and using a complementary set of molecular, chemical and imaging tools, with samples obtained during the phytoplankton spring bloom in the hydrodynamically complex Southern Bight of the North Sea. We hypothesized that while generally recognized spatial gradients in e.g. salinity, turbidity and nutrients will have a strong impact on plankton spatial distribution patterns, interactions within the plankton compartment but also lag effects related to preceding bloom-related events will further modulate spatial structuring of the plankton. Our study indeed revealed an overriding imprint of regional factors on plankton distribution patterns. The dominant spatial pattern mainly reflected regional differences in dissolved inorganic nutrients and particulate matter concentrations related to differences in phytoplankton bloom timing between the two main regions of freshwater influence, the Thames and the Scheldt-Rhine-Meuse. A second major pattern corresponded to the expected nearshore-offshore gradient, with increasing influence of low turbidity and low nutrient Atlantic waters in the offshore stations. Environmental forcing on specific plankton groups and inter-plankton relationships also appeared to drive plankton distribution. Although the marine plankton comprises heterogeneous functional groups, this study shows that multiple planktonic ecosystem components can be parts of common spatial gradients and that often neglected small planktonic organisms can be key drivers of such gradients. These analytical outcomes open questions on regional and seasonal reproducibility of the highlighted gradients.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Acetone Extracts from Microalgae Chlorella sp. WZ13 on RAW264.7 Cells and TPA-induced Ear Edema in Mice
Authors: Yang Longhe , Hu Fan , Yan Yajun , Yu Siyu , Chen Tingting , Wang Zhaokai
Published: July 2022

Microalgae extracts have a wide range of uses in the field of healthcare and nutrition. However, the use of microalgae extracts in anti-inflammatory properties and their mechanism of action have not yet been fully studied. Here, we show that extracts from Chlorella sp. WZ13 (CSE-WZ13) dose-dependently reduced nitrite production, inhibited the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein, and decreased the production of the gene and inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Using high-content imaging analysis, it was found that CSE-WZ13 inhibited the translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. CSE-WZ13 also exerted anti-inflammatory effects in an ear edema mouse model induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). CSE-WZ13 inhibited edema by 36.17% and 25.66% at a dose of 0.3 and 0.1 mg/ear, respectively. Histological analysis showed that topical application of CSE-WZ13 decreased TPA-induced inflammatory cell infiltration. Our results indicate that CSE-WZ13 may be a useful candidate for the purpose of decreasing inflammation.
Effects of Different Fatty Acids as Surfactants on the Rheological Properties of Kerosene-Based Magnetic Fluids
Authors: Zang Guobao , Zhang Zhili , Yu Wenjuan , Wang Deyi , Li Decai
Published: July 2022

Three types of surfactants (oleic acid, linoleic acid, and a mixture of oleic acid and linoleic acid) were coated on ferromagnetic particles, which were dispersed in kerosene to prepare magnetic fluids, to study the effect of different fatty acids as surfactants on the rheological properties of magnetic fluids. The particles were analyzed by XRD, TEM, FT-IR, and VSM. Furthermore, a rheometer was used to examine the rheological properties of kerosene-based magnetic fluids dispersed with various surfactants. The yield stress at different magnetic fields was calculated by fitting the Herschel–Bulkley model. The fitted curve and the observed values of mixed fatty acids are identical. The graphs of viscosity increase with the shear rate for each magnetic fluid were measured at constant magnetic field strengths. At constant shear rates, the curves of viscosity increase with magnetic field intensity were measured. In the absence of a magnetic field, the relative change in viscosity from 40°C to 0°C was observed. The rheological measurements of the mixed fatty acid-dispersed ferrofluid with a rising magnetic field at a constant shear rate are smoother than the single-fatty-acid-dispersed ferrofluid, indicating that it is more stable. As the temperature is dropped, the viscosity–temperature curve evidence that mixed fatty acids as surfactants can lower the proportion of magnetic fluid viscosity rise.
Impact of Corticosteroids on the Proportions of Circulating Tfh Cell Subsets in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematous
Authors: Mao Minjing , Xu Shuqin , Lin Lin , Dong Danfeng , Xue Minghui , He Siwei , Cai Gang
Published: July 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze the distribution of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells in lupus patients, and the effects of steroids on circulating Tfh cells.

Methods

Circulating Tfh cell subsets were defined by multicolor flow cytometry as Tfh17, Tfh2 or Tfh1 subpopulations of CXCR5+CD45RA–CD4+T cells in the peripheral blood of SLE patients and healthy controls. To test the effects of corticosteroid on Tfh cells, PBMC harvested from both SLE and healthy controls were cocultured with dexamethasone, and then analyzed by Flow cytometry.

Results

The proportion of Tfh17 cells in SLE patients was increased significantly compared with healthy controls. Additionally, patients with an active disease had reduced Tfh1 subsets than those with an inactive disease and healthy controls. The frequency of Tfh2 cells was associated with the proportion of circulating plasmablasts and the amount of anti-dsDNA. Dexamethasone reduced the percentage of Tfh2 cells while increased the proportion of Tfh17 subset in gated CXCR5+CD45RA–CD4+T cells.

Conclusion

Our study investigated the distribution of circulating Tfh subsets in lupus patients. Corticosteroids treatment not only down-regulated the proportion of circulating Tfh cells, but also altered the distribution of Tfh subsetsin vivoandin vitro.
Cultivation of the Dematiaceous Fungus Cladosporium sphaerospermum Aboard the International Space Station and Effects of Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Averesch Nils J. H. , Shunk Graham K. , Kern Christoph
Published: July 2022

In Space, cosmic radiation is a strong, ubiquitous form of energy with constant flux, and the ability to harness it could greatly enhance the energy-autonomy of expeditions across the solar system. At the same time, radiation is the greatest permanent health risk for humans venturing into deep space. To protect astronauts beyond Earth's magnetosphere, advanced shielding against ionizing as well as non-ionizing radiation is highly sought after. In search of innovative solutions to these challenges, biotechnology appeals with suitability for in situ resource utilization (ISRU), self-regeneration, and adaptability. Where other organisms fail, certain microscopic fungi thrive in high-radiation environments on Earth, showing high radioresistance. The adaptation of some of these molds to areas, such as the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone has coined the terms positive “radiotropism” and “radiotrophy”, reflecting the affinity to and stimulation by radiation, and sometimes even enhanced growth under ionizing conditions. These abilities may be mediated by the pigment melanin, many forms of which also have radioprotective properties. The expectation is that these capabilities are extendable to radiation in space. To study its growth in space, an experiment cultivating Cladosporium sphaerospermum Penzig ATCC® 11289™ aboard the International Space Station (ISS) was conducted while monitoring radiation beneath the formed biomass in comparison to a no-growth negative control. A qualitative growth advantage in space was observable. Quantitatively, a 1.21 ± 0.37-times higher growth rate than in the ground control was determined, which might indicate a radioadaptive response to space radiation. In addition, a reduction in radiation compared to the negative control was discernable, which is potentially attributable to the fungal biomass.
Comprehensive Genetic Analysis of Monokaryon and Dikaryon Populations Provides Insight Into Cross-Breeding of Flammulina filiformis
Authors: Li Hui , Shi Lei , Tang Weiqi , Xia Weiwei , Zhong Yingli , Xu Xinyu , Xie Baogui , Tao Yongxin
Published: July 2022

Flammulina filiformis, as one of the most popular edible fungi in East Asia, is produced in an industrialized and standardized way. However, its monotonous variety and product convergence have seriously restricted the development of the industry. In this study, 11 cultivated strains and 13 wild strains of F. filiformis were collected from multiple regions of China and Japan and were performed genome sequencing. Together with genome data of six strains previously released, in total 23 dikaryons (formed by two monokaryons mating, can making fruiting body), 35 monokaryons (formed by protoplast-regenerating of dikaryon and isolating) were used for genetic diversity and population structure analysis based on the high-throughput genotyping. Firstly, a set of SNP markers with intrapopulation polymorphism including 849,987 bi-allelic SNPs were developed and basically covered all of 11 chromosomes with a high distribution density of 24.16 SNP markers per kb. The cultivated dikaryotic strains were divided into three subgroups, and their breeding history was made inferences, which is consistent with the available pedigree records. The wild dikaryotic strains were divided into two subgroups and showed varied contributions of genetic components with high genetic diversity. All the investigated dikaryons have a symmetric distribution pattern with their two constituent monokaryons in principal component analysis. Finally, we summarized the pedigree relationship diagram of F. filiformis main strains including six modules, and the genotypes of hybrids can be directly phased by the known parental allele according to it. This study provides a method to distinguish two sets of monokaryon haplotypes, and several valuable genetic resources of wild F. filiformis, and an effective strategy for guiding F. filiformis breeding based on the population structure and pedigree relationship in future.