bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CURRENT ISSUES OF LEGAL REGULATION OF HUMAN GENOME DATABASES CREATING AND FUNCTIONING
Authors: Чемерис Алексей , Анисимов Владимир , Аминев Фарит
Published: April 2021

The relevance of the article is due, on the one hand, to the active introduction of genomic research technologies into everyday life and the accumulation of a significant amount of genetic information while providing medical care and other genome screening and sequencing services by private and state organizations. On the other hand, it is relevant due to the beginning of the implementation of large-scale government projects to create an information-analytical system for storing and processing genetic data. In these circumstances, the issues of developing an effective legal regulation of creating and functioning of human genome databases are of particular importance.
Aim: to study the requirements of international and national standards for statutory regulation of relations connected to genomic researches, as well as to collecting, processing, storing and using genetic information.
Methods: in the study formal logical and general scientific methods of scientific knowledge are used; private scientific (comparative legal, formal dogmatic) methods are used.
Results: Based on these requirements, the current national legislation is assessed, an urgent need is defined to adopt a special federal law on the protection of genomic information, which enshrines the necessary rules on procedures for forming relevant databases, the procedure for storing and using the resulting genomic information, as well as the legal regime of the information contained in the database.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES - THE CHALLENGE OF THE TIME
Authors: Хазиева Рушана , Юсупова Розалия
Published: April 2021

This article focuses on information technologies and gives their classification. The advantages and disadvantages of the introduction of the latest information, telecommunication and cybernetic technologies are highlighted. The authors draw attention to the necessity to unite efforts of all countries regarding information security. It is emphasized that in modern conditions the information systems of one country are part of the global system, which in turn leads to the vulnerability of information systems and the possibility of external influence on politics and the economy. Purpose of the article: to show the positive and negative consequences of the achievements of information exchange. Methods: general scientific methods of theoretical knowledge, as well as general logical methods and research techniques are used. Results: In modern conditions of globalization and integration of various world systems, information security issues should remain a priority and be considered in close cooperation of all countries.
Recomendações para a prática de exercí­cio fí­sico em face do COVID-19: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Nogueira Carlos José , Cortez Antônio Carlos Leal , Oliveira Leal Silvânia Matheus de , Dantas Estélio Henrique Martin
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Avaliar e sintetizar as evidências científicas com relação as recomendações sobre a prática de atividade física durante e após o período da pandemia. Métodos: Realizou-se uma busca junto às bases Medline/Pubmed, Cochrane, Web of Science e Scopus, e buscas manuais em periódicos, nas referências dos estudos selecionados, além da utilização de estudos pré-print. A busca inicial totalizou 1026 registros e após a aplicação dos filtros, 321 publicações foram selecionadas. Após a exclusão por título, resumo, duplicatas e leitura na íntegra restaram 13 publicações, além de mais 10 estudos selecionados manualmente, totalizando 23 publicações. Resultados: Após análise dos resultados, as evidências foram categorizadas de acordo com: os efeitos do exercício físico sobre infecções respiratórias virais, o impacto da COVID-19 em relação à inatividade física, saúde física e mental e recomendações sobre a atividade física regular durante a pandemia da COVID-19 e recomendações sobre atividade física pós pandemia. Conclusão: A maioria das evidências recomendam a realização de atividade física moderada regular durante e após a pandemia. No entanto, recomendações mais específicas sobre a intensidade, o tipo de exercício, séries e duração do treino precisam de maiores investigações.
Протизапальна й аналгетична активність Кардіазолу
Authors: Драпак І. В. , Зіменковський Б. С. , Серединська Н. М.
Published: April 2021

У роботі наведено результати in silico прогнозування та експериментального дослідження протизапальної й аналгетичної активності нової сполуки [3-аліл-4-(41-метоксифеніл)-3Н-тіазол-2-іліден]-(32-трифлуорометил-феніл)аміну гідроброміду (Кардіазолу) як потенційного вітчизняного кардіотропного лікарського засобу з поліфармакологічною дією. За результатами in silico прогнозування встановлено ймовірність прояву протизапальної й аналгетичної дії Кардіазолу з використанням комп’ютерної програми Pharma expert/Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances, як можливі біологічні мішені визначені ліпоксигеназа (за програмою Super Pred), циклооксигеназа-2 та арахідонат 5-ліпоксигеназа (за програмою Swiss Target Prediction). Згодом наявність у Кардіазолу таких видів активності було підтверджено дослідженнями in vivo.Вивчення протизапальної активності Кардіазолу проведено на білих щурах з використанням моделі карагенанового набряку. Аналгетичну активність Кардіазолу досліджували на білих мишах на моделі вісцерального болю, що індукований внутрішньоочеревинним введенням 0,75 % розчину оцтової кислоти.Встановлена досить суттєва протизапальна дія Кардіазолу, що характеризується зменшенням набряку кінцівок у щурів на моделі карагенанового запалення. Антиексудативна активність становить 33,2 %, і вона є, фактично, ідентичною до активності Ібупрофену. Дослідження знеболювальної дії Кардіазолу на моделі вісцерального болю показали його досить високу аналгетичну активність – 47 %, про що свідчить зниження кількості корчів порівняно до групи нелікованих тварин.Таким чином, проведеними дослідженнями in silico передбачена ймовірність протизапальної та аналгетичної активності Кардіазолу, що була підтверджена на моделях карагенанового набряку та вісцерального болю відповідно в дослідах in vivo.
Yufid Kids Cartoon Media Effectiveness in Learning Arabic For Early Children
Authors: Risnawati Chusniah , Asrori Imam , Hamid M. Abdul
Published: April 2021

Education is one of the most important aspects in the formation of the development of human life. In practice there are many learning methods that can be used in conveying messages to a student, and one of the methods used in the process of educational development in early childhood is to using the animation media method, where in the learning process students also involve various additional media elements in it, animation learning media is a means of conveying information from the sender of the message to the recipient of the message, in the hope that the learning communication process can run effectively and the message is want to be conveyed can be accepted completely by children so that in the end it will improve children's language skills by involving elements of images and sounds. Where in this learning takes place and can attract the attention of students both in learning activeness, asking questions, and interacting. This can be seen from the positive attitudes of students seen during the learning process. This study uses a qualitative method approach by examining several literature studies related to the research objectives, namely to find out how to apply learning methods using cartoon animation media in improving Arabic for early childhood.
Desentralisasi Asimetris Kewenangan Provinsi Kepulauan dalam Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Alam untuk Mewujudkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat
Authors: Umasangaji Amirrudin , Mufti Ahmad , Umra Sri Indriyani
Published: April 2021

The research entitled Asymmetric Decentralization of the Authority of Archipelago Provinces in Natural Resources Management to Realize Community Welfare aims to (1) determine the meaning and urgency of implementing the concept of asymmetric decentralization in regulating the authority of archipelagic provinces; and (2) analyze how the authority of the archipelagic provinces in the management of natural resources can create public welfare. This research is a normative legal research (juridical normative) using approaches including: a statute approach, a conceptual approach, and a historical approach. This research uses the main theory "welfare law state theory" to analyze the achievement of the goal of legal development, namely the welfare of the community. In order to analyze the existing problems, several relevant concepts were also used, including: (1) the concept of asymmetric decentralization and regional autonomy; and (2) the concept of an archipelagic state and archipelagic province that is specifically focused on the formulation of the norms of regional government authority in provinces characterized by islands.Keywords: Asymmetric Decentralization, Islands, Natural Resources
ERGONOMIC DESIGN OF THE WORKPLACE FOR FINAL QUALITY CONTROL
Authors: BREZNİK Matic , VUJICA HERZOG Natasa
Published: April 2021

The incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders remains high and, as these injuries have a high cost for companies and society, it is important to prevent them through ergonomic analysis and workplace design. During the work process, we are always looking to reduce lost time and improve the quality of work. From an ergonomic point of view, it is important to determine what workloads employees are exposed to and to eliminate or at least minimise them by redesigning the workplace.

The aim of our research was to minimise the risk at work through the scientific design of workplaces based on a methodological approach. The manual and computerised OWAS method was used to determine and estimate body postures during the workday. It was found that certain postures resulted in significant overexertion, which meant that certain remedial actions were necessary during the work process to prevent possible damage to the body. Several improvements were proposed for the new workplace design: appropriate equipment for workers, lifting table, rotation of workers, construction of quality control facilities and automation of macro tasks.
A utilização do Formulários Google como ferramenta de avaliação no processo de ensino e aprendizagem em tempos de pandemia de Covid-19: Um estudo em uma escola de educação básica
Authors: Dias Gustavo Nogueira , Silva Pedro Roberto Sousa da , Pamplona Vanessa Mayara Souza , Araújo Jamile Carla Oliveira , Barbosa Eldilene da Silva , Lobato Fabricio da Silva , Souza Júnior José Carlos Barros de , Silva Junior Washington Luiz Pedrosa da , Vogado Gilberto Emanoel Reis , Barreto Wagner Davy Lucas , Leal Ana Paula Ignácio Pontes , Silva Junior Ademir Ferreira , Pinto Gerson Pompeu
Published: April 2021

A pesquisa: A utilização do Formulários Google como ferramenta de avaliação no processo de ensino e aprendizagem em tempos de pandemia de Covid-19, mostrou um estudo descritivo, transversal realizado com alunos do ensino médio de uma escola pública, da cidade de Belém do Pará, frente à utilização do Google forms, como instrumento de avaliação realizado  do período de 01 de abril de 2020 até 15 de janeiro de 2021. Observou-se um significativo aumento da utilização das ferramentas tecnológicas utilizadas na educação a fim de suprir o fomento educacional e dar suporte aos estabelecimentos de instrução,  em todas as esferas de ensinos. A proposta de utilização do Google Forms como instrumento avaliativo, tornou-se uma ferramenta indispensável, porém algumas restrições foram encontradas. O objetivo do presente estudo é descrever a utilização da ferramenta google forms como instrumento de avaliação com alunos da educação básica em tempos de pandemia da covid-19. Foi observado problemas que afetam o desenvolvimento educacional, como saúde mental e a desigualdade pela falta de acesso aos meios tecnológicos necessários a manutenção da educação além da vulnerabilidade social enfrentada por inúmeros alunos.
Clinical report of rare manifestation of Herpes Zoster in the mandibular nerve
Authors: Prest Victor Teixeira , Melo Radamés Bezerra , Sá Carlos Diego Lopes , Carneiro Nayara Cristina Monteiro , Bernardino Ranelle de Souza , Feitosa Victor Pinheiro
Published: April 2021

Herpes zoster (HZ) – a viral infection commonly known as shingles – is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), one of eight known herpes viruses that infect humans. It is ubiquitous and highly contagious, with initial exposure usually occurring during childhood, when it causes chickenpox. The mechanism responsible for reactivating the virus is still not fully understood. However, it appears to be associated with a weakened immune system, with stress also having been identified as a possible triggering factor. Vesicular-bullous lesions on the skin that follow the pathway of a particular nerve are typically the clinical basis for diagnosing HZ with no need for further laboratory testing. The objective of this study is to report a clinical case of a patient, 17 years old, diagnosed with HZ in the trigeminal nerve with involvement of the mandibular branch. There were vesicular-bullous skin lesions in the mesenteric region, the mandibular region and the lower lip, in addition to erythematous lesions on the tongue, with pain in all the affected regions. All lesions were located on the left side of the face and did not exceed the midline. The treatment was performed with acyclovir and pain medication (Paracetamol and Codeine Phosphate, Tylex® 30mg), with complete resolution occurring in 30 days. The patient is undergoing a 6 month outpatient follow-up and did not exhibit any functional sequelae.
Potential drug interactions and profile of antimicrobials prescribed for outpatient use in the interior of Bahia
Authors: Santos Beatriz da Silva , Silva Manoela Santos da , Pereira Isadora Oliveira e , Lemos Lucas Brasileiro , Lemos Gisele da Silveira
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to analyze the profile of antimicrobials and potential drug interactions, involving these drugs, prescribed for outpatient use in the interior of Bahia. This is a cross-sectional study, carried out based on the analysis of 404 antimicrobial prescriptions listed in the DRC no. 20/2011, made available by the store of a chain of pharmacies, referring to the period of May 2018. The analysis of drug interactions (IM) was made using the MICROMEDEX® version 2.0 database (2011). The most prescribed class of antimicrobials was that of β-lactams (27.7%), followed by macrolides (25.3%) and fluoroquinolones (18.3%). As for the drugs prescribed in combination, there was a predominance of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (23.3%) and analgesics (19.8%). A total of 20 different drug interactions were observed, involving antimicrobials, most frequently for ciprofloxacin. After analyzing the interactions, it was possible to verify the risks related to drug associations that can be minimized with the analysis of the prescription by a pharmaceutical professional and alert systems in electronic prescription.
Resposta de glyphosate em mucuna-preta desenvolvida em diferentes temperaturas
Authors: Dias Roque de Carvalho , Munhoz Diego Gomes , Bianchi Leandro , Anunciato Vitor Muller , Tropaldi Leandro , Silva Paulo Vinicius da , Carbonari Caio Antonio , Velini Edivaldo Domingues
Published: April 2021

A mucuna-preta é uma leguminosa anual, que nos últimos anos assumiu posição de destaque como uma importante planta daninha em várias regiões. O controle químico constitui-se umas das principais ferramentas de manejo de plantas daninhas, contudo, diferentes condições climáticas podem influenciar consideravelmente a eficácia de muitas moléculas. O glyphosate é um dos herbicidas sistêmicos, de amplo espectro de controle, amplamente utilizado para o controle químico de plantas daninhas. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar as respostas de crescimento de plantas de mucuna-preta em diferentes temperaturas submetidas a doses de glyphosate. Foram realizados dois experimentos, em casa de vegetação, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por nove doses de glyphosate (g ha-1 e.a.): 2,81; 5,62; 11,25; 22,5; 45,0; 90,0; 180,0; 360,0 e 720,0, além de um tratamento controle (sem aplicação de herbicida). Foram realizadas avaliações visuais de fitointoxicação aos 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias após a aplicação (DAA), e aos 28 DAA massa seca da parte aérea das plantas, além da extração e quantificação da cera epicuticular. Doses de glyphosate inferiores a 22,5 g ha-1 e.a. não ocasionaram nenhum efeito nas plantas e nas doses superiores a 360 g ha-1 e.a. proporcionou a morte da mucuna-preta em ambos os experimentos. A resposta da mucuna-preta nas doses intermediárias de glyphosate variou e associou-se as diferentes condições de temperatura que provocaram diferenças nas quantidades de ceras nos experimentos realizados. As plantas de mucuna-preta respondem de maneira diferente ao herbicida glyphosate em condições de temperatura diferente.
Acute and chronic behavioral effects of kelp gull micropredation on southern right whale mother-calf pairs off Península Valdés, Argentina
Authors: Azizeh TR , Sprogis KR , Soley R , Nielsen MLK , Uhart MM , Sironi M , Marón CF , Bejder L , Madsen PT , Christiansen F
Published: April 2021

Kelp gullsLarus dominicanus(KG) feed on the skin and blubber of living southern right whalesEubalaena australis(SRWs) off Península Valdés (PV), Argentina. The whales respond strongly to KG micropredation by changing their immediate (acute) behavior during attacks and their overall (chronic) surfacing pattern and body posture to minimize gull exposure. The energetic and large-scale behavioral consequences of these attacks are unknown. To address this knowledge gap, we quantified the effect size of both acute (during attacks) and chronic (not during attacks) responses by comparing the respiration rates, swim speed, and nursing behavior of PV SRWs to undisturbed (control) SRW mother-calf pairs in Head of Bight, Australia, using unmanned aerial vehicle focal follows. Even when gulls were not attacking, PV SRW mothers and calves demonstrated ~50 and ~25% higher respiration rates, respectively, than whales in Australia. During attacks, PV calf respiration rates increased by an additional 10%. PV SRW mothers also frequently (>76% of respirations) exhibited irregular breathing postures, causing the whales to potentially expend extra energy by working against their natural buoyancy. Despite no significant increase in average maternal swim speed, 76 and 90% of gull attacks elicited strong behavioral reactions from mothers and calves, respectively. Overall, PV calves spent less time nursing during individual bouts compared to those in Australia but entered suckling position more frequently. Furthermore, kelp gulls seemed to show a preference for attacking previously wounded calves and at a higher rate. These chronic and acute behavioral effects may carry energetic costs, which could have long-term consequences for SRW survival and reproduction.
A Proposed Theory of Symptom Cluster Management
Authors: Tabudlo Jerick Batin
Published: April 2021

Background: Symptom cluster management is in its early stages in many chronic and debilitating illnesses. The development of a proposed theory should be an initial step in advancing this area of interest.Objective: This article presents the development of a Proposed Theory of Symptom Cluster Management.Methods: The concept analysis, statement synthesis, and theory synthesis by Walker and Avant were used in the development of this proposed theory. A search from July to September 2020 for published empirical and theoretical articles was conducted in scientific databases, expanded on the web, and secondary references from identified articles.Results: The Proposed Theory of Symptom Cluster Management is both a descriptive and explanatory theory. The defining characteristics of symptom cluster management include the basic and effectiveness components. Antecedents for symptom cluster management include socio-demographic characteristics, symptom cluster characteristics, individual clinical characteristics, individual illness factors, and situational factors or symptom experience. The consequences are clustered as personal-related, health-related, social-related outcomes, and existential outcomes. Measurement tools for the antecedents and outcomes in symptom cluster management and the analytical and statistical strategies were considered. Relational statements were also identified. Theoretical assertions were advanced.Conclusion: The Proposed Theory of Symptom Cluster Management may provide a holistic approach because it integrates both the symptom cluster and management strategies. The concepts, statements including the complete representation of the proposed theory identified in this article, may provide cues to policymakers and clinical researchers towards the development of tailored interventions and programs.
Decompression Illness Incidence and Hypoxia Symptoms After Prebreathing in Hypobaric Hypoxia Training
Authors: Cheok Liang Jie , Ying Goh Bernice Lin , Soh Feng Wei , Boon Chuan Benjamin Tan
Published: April 2021

INTRODUCTION: Hypobaric hypoxia training utilizing the environmental chamber is often preceded by prebreathing of 100% oxygen with the goal of reducing decompression illness (DCI). We aimed to study the impact of prebreathing 100% oxygen for 30 min prior to hypobaria exposure
to 7600 m (25,000 ft) on the incidence rate of DCI, as well as the impact of prebreathing on hypoxia symptoms felt during training.METHODS: Records of participants who underwent hypobaric hypoxia training in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) from 2011 to 2014 (before introduction
of prebreathing) were compared to those who underwent similar training from 2014 to 2017 (after introduction of prebreathing) to determine the incidences of DCI for both groups. Participants who underwent hypobaric hypoxia training from January 2017 to July 2017 completed a survey to assess
the impact of prebreathing on the presentation and severity of hypoxia symptoms.RESULTS: Two DCI events were recorded in 1530 hypobaric chamber exposures without prebreathing while two DCI events were recorded in 1729 exposures with prebreathing. There was no significant difference
in the incidence of DCI between the two groups. The survey findings showed no significant difference in the presentation and severity of hypoxia symptoms with 30 min of prebreathing.DISCUSSION: Incidence of DCI remains low during hypobaric chamber training, with no statistical difference
with or without prebreathing. Possible reasons were the short duration of hypobaric exposure of 10 min during hypoxia training, and that 30 min of prebreathing was insufficient to further decrease or eliminate the risk of DCI in short duration hypobaric exposures.Cheok LJ, Goh BLY,
Soh FW, Chuan BTB. Decompression illness incidence and hypoxia symptoms after prebreathing in hypobaric hypoxia training. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(5):289293.
GEBELİKTEKİ YAKINMALAR VE YAŞAM KALİTESİNE ETKİSİ ÖLÇEĞİ: TÜRKÇE FORMUNUN GEÇERLİLİK VE GÜVENİLİRLİK ÇALIŞMASI
Authors: GÜR Elif Yağmur , PASİNLİOĞLU Türkan
Published: April 2021

Bu araştırma “Gebelikteki Yakınmalar ve Yaşam Kalitesine Etkisi Ölçeği”nin Türkçe geçerlilik güvenilirlik çalışmasının yapılarak Türk toplumuna kazandırılması amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırma Türkiye’nin doğusunda bir kadın doğum hastanesinde Şubat 2015 ve Nisan 2016 tarihleri arasında metodolojik olarak yapılmıştır. Bu araştırma, çalışmaya dahil edilme kriterlerini karşılayan 506 gebe kadın ile yürütülmüştür. Ölçeğin çeviri-geri çeviri yöntemi ile dil geçerliliği analiz edilmiş ve uzman görüşleri ile kapsam geçerliliği yapılmıştır. Ölçek pilot uygulama sonrası örneklem grubuna uygulanmıştır. Faktör analizi sonucu, ölçeğin tek faktörlü bir yapıda ve faktör yüklerinin uygun aralıkta olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ölçeğin iç tutarlılık analizi sonucunda ölçeğin madde toplam puan korelasyonlarının yeterli ve Cronbach alfa katsayısının 0.91 olduğu bulunmuştur. Ölçek hem gebelik şikayetlerini hem de yaşam kalitesini değerlendirdiği için ölçeğin Türkçe başlığı, Türk toplumuna uyarlanırken daha anlaşılır ve daha uygun olacağı düşünülerek uzman görüşleri doğrultusunda, "Gebelikte Yakınmalar ve Yaşam Kalitesine Etkisi Ölçeği" olarak belirlenmiştir. Ölçeğin Türk toplumu için geçerli ve güvenilir bir değerlendirme aracı olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Representera flera!
Authors: Jonsson Natasha , Martinsson Ida , Wikström Rebecca
Published: April 2021

Om oss
Vi som står bakom projektet Representera flera heter Rebecca, Natasha och Ida. Vi studerar kandidatprogrammet Språk, litteratur och medier vid Linköpings unversitet och det här är vårt slutprojekt i kursen att publicera i den medierade offentligheten.
Vårt mål med bloggen är att belysa underrepresentation av kvinnor i populära genrer av film och spel. Vi vänder oss främst till ungdomar i högstadiet, men våra texter ska även fungera som undervisningsmaterial till lärare och andra med pedagogiska yrken.
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An Optimized and Versatile Counter-Flow Centrifugal Elutriation Workflow to Obtain Synchronized Eukaryotic Cells
Authors: Liu Yongqiang , Nan Bei , Niu Junhua , Kapler Geoffrey M. , Gao Shan
Published: April 2021

Cell synchronization is a powerful tool to understand cell cycle events and its regulatory mechanisms. Counter-flow centrifugal elutriation (CCE) is a more generally desirable method to synchronize cells because it does not significantly alter cell behavior and/or cell cycle progression, however, adjusting specific parameters in a cell type/equipment-dependent manner can be challenging. In this paper, we used the unicellular eukaryotic model organism,Tetrahymena thermophilaas a testing system for optimizing CCE workflow. Firstly, flow cytometry conditions were identified that reduced nuclei adhesion and improved the assessment of cell cycle stage. We then systematically examined how to achieve the optimal conditions for three critical factors affecting the outcome of CCE, including loading flow rate, collection flow rate and collection volume. Using our optimized workflow, we obtained a large population of highly synchronous G1-phaseTetrahymenaas measured by 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation into nascent DNA strands, bulk DNA content changes by flow cytometry, and cell cycle progression by light microscopy. This detailed protocol can be easily adapted to synchronize other eukaryotic cells.
CryptoType – Public Datasets for MALDI-TOF-MS Based Differentiation of Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii Complexes
Authors: Bernhard Mareike , Worasilchai Navaporn , Kangogo Mourine , Bii Christine , Trzaska Wioleta J. , Weig Michael , Groß Uwe , Chindamporn Ariya , Bader Oliver
Published: April 2021

Yeasts of the Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii species complexes are human pathogens mostly in immune compromised individuals, and can cause infections from dermal lesions to fungal meningitis. Differences in virulence and antifungal drug susceptibility of species in these complexes indicate the value of full differentiation to species level in diagnostic procedures. MALDI-TOF MS has been reported to sufficiently discriminate these species. Here, we sought to re-evaluate sample pre-processing procedures and create a set of publicly available references for use with the MALDI Biotyper system. Peak content using four different pre-processing protocols was assessed, and database entries for 13 reference strains created. These were evaluated against a collection of 153 clinical isolates, typed by conventional means. The use of decapsulating protocols or mechanical disruption did not sufficiently increase the information content to justify the extra hands-on-time. Using the set of 13 reference entries created with the standard formic acid extraction, we were able to correctly classify 143/153 (93.5%) of our test isolates. The majority of the remaining ten isolates still gave correct top matches; only two isolates did not give reproducible identifications. This indicates that the log score cut-off can be lowered also in this context. Ease to identify cryptococcal isolates to the species level is improved by the workflow evaluated here. The database references are freely available from https://github.com/oliverbader/BioTyper-libraries for incorporation into local diagnostic systems.
Development of Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Rapid and On-Site Detection of Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Golabi Mohsen , Flodrops Marion , Grasland Beatrice , Vinayaka Aaydha C. , Quyen Than Linh , Nguyen Trieu , Bang Dang Duong , Wolff Anders
Published: April 2021

Avian influenza virus (AIV) outbreaks occur frequently worldwide, causing a potential public health risk and great economic losses to poultry industries. Considering the high mutation rate and frequent genetic reassortment between segments in the genome of AIVs, emerging new strains are a real threat that may infect and spread through the human population, causing a pandemic. Therefore, rapid AIV diagnostic tests are essential tools for surveillance and assessing virus spreading. Real-time reverse transcription PCR (rRT-PCR), targeting the matrix gene, is the main official standard test for AIV detection, but the method requires well-equipped laboratories. Reverse transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP) has been reported as a rapid method and an alternative to PCR in pathogen detection. The high mutation rate in the AIV genome increases the risk of false negative in nucleic acid amplification methods for detection, such as PCR and LAMP, due to possible mismatched priming. In this study, we analyzed 800 matrix gene sequences of newly isolated AIV in the EU and designed a highly efficient LAMP primer set that covers all AIV subtypes. The designed LAMP primer set was optimized in real-time RT-LAMP (rRT-LAMP) assay. The rRT-LAMP assay detected AIV samples belonging to nine various subtypes with the specificity and sensitivity comparable to the official standard rRT-PCR assay. Further, a two-color visual detection RT-LAMP assay protocol was adapted with the aim to develop on-site diagnostic tests. The on-site testing successfully detected spiked AIV in birds oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs samples at a concentration as low as 100.8EID50per reaction within 30 minutes including sample preparation. The results revealed a potential of this newly developed rRT-LAMP assay to detect AIV in complex samples using a simple heat treatment step without the need for RNA extraction.
An Assessment of the Antarctic Sea Ice Mass Budget Simulation in CMIP6 Historical Experiment
Authors: Li Sirui , Huang Gang , Li Xichen , Liu Jiping , Fan Guangzhou
Published: April 2021

The sea ice formation and dissipation processes are complicated and involve many factors and mechanisms, from the basal growth/melting, the frazil ice formation, the snow ice processes to the dynamic process, etc. The contribution of different factors to the sea ice extent among different models over the Antarctic region has not been systematically evaluated. In this study, we evaluate and quantify the uncertainties of different contributors to the Antarctic Sea ice mass budget among 15 models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). Results show that the simulated total Antarctic Sea ice mass budget is primarily adjusted by the basal growth/melting terms, the frazil ice formation term and the snow-ice term, whereas the top melting terms, the lateral melting terms, the dynamic process and the evaporation process play secondary roles. In addition, while recent studies indicated that the contributors of the Arctic Sea ice formation/dissipation processes show strong coherency among different CMIP models, our results revealed a significant model diversity over the Antarctic region, indicating that the uncertainties of the sea ice formation and dissipation are still considerable in these state-of-the-art climate models. The largest uncertainties appear in the snow ice formation, the basal melting and the top melting terms, whose spread among different models is of the same order of magnitude as the multi-model mean. In some models, large positive bias in the snow ice terms may neutralize the strong negative bias of the basal/top melting terms, resulting in a similar value of the total Antarctic Sea ice area compared with other models, yet with an inaccurate physical process. The uncertainties in these Antarctic Sea ice formation/dissipation terms highlight the importance of further improving the sea ice dynamical and parameterization processes in the state-of-the-art models.
Faculty and Student Perceptions of Academic Integrity in Technology-Assisted Learning and Testing
Authors: Alessio Helaine Mary , Messinger Jeff D.
Published: April 2021

The recent COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges to faculty (Fac) and students (Stu) to uphold academic integrity when many classes transitioned from traditional to remote. This study compared Fac and Stu perceptions surrounding academic integrity when using technology assisted proctoring in online testing.

Methods: College Fac (N = 150) and Stu (N = 78) completed a survey about perceptions of academic integrity and use of proctoring software for online testing. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to determine if there were differences in the distribution of agreement between students and faculty.

Results: Fac and Stu agreed maintaining academic integrity was a priority (93 vs. 94%), and that it is easier to cheat in online tests (81 vs. 83%). Responses differed on whether online proctoring software was effective at preventing academic dishonesty (23% of Fac vs. 42% of Stu disagreed). 53% of Fac and 70% of Stu perceived that online proctoring was an invasion of privacy. Only 7% of Stu and 49% of Fac perceived importance in having a policy about proctoring online tests, whether cheating in an academic setting is likely associated with cheating in a work setting (78 vs. 51%), and if given a choice, 46% of Fac and only 2% of Stu would choose to use proctoring software. Answers to open-ended questions identified feelings of stress and anxiety by Stu and concerns about privacy by Fac.

Conclusion: Fac and Stu had similar perceptions of the importance of academic integrity and ease of cheating in online tests. They differed in perception of proctoring software’s effectiveness in deterring cheating, choosing to give or take a proctored online test, and having a policy in place. Policies on technology-assisted online testing should be developed with faculty and student input to address student concerns of privacy, anxiety, and stress and uphold academic integrity.
Development of Vasoinhibin-Specific Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Müller Nils , Robles Juan Pablo , Zamora Magdalena , Ebnet Johannes , Markl-Hahn Hülya , Martínez de la Escalera Gonzalo , Clapp Carmen , Bertsch Thomas , Triebel Jakob
Published: April 2021

Vasoinhibin is a protein hormone with antiangiogenic, antivasodilatatory, and antivasopermeability effects generated by the proteolytic cleavage of prolactin. The discovery of its role in diabetic retinopathy and peripartum cardiomyopathy led to the evaluation of new pharmacological treatments in clinical interventional trials. However, the quantitative evaluation of vasoinhibin in biological samples from patients has not been possible due to the lack of vasoinhibin-specific antibodies. Recently, loop 1 of vasoinhibin was identified to have a different three-dimensional structure compared to PRL, and thus to contain vasoinhibin-specific epitopes. Here, we report the development of two sets of vasoinhibin-specific monoclonal antibodies against two neighboring regions of the vasoinhibin loop 1. An experimental sandwich ELISA with two monoclonal anti-vasoinhibin antibodies was developed, which had no cross-reactivity to recombinant human full-length prolactin. The ELISA had a quantitation limit of 100 ng/ml, and intra-assay- and inter-assay coefficients of variation of 12.5% and 14%, respectively. The evaluation of 15 human serum samples demonstrated concentrations of below limit of detection (n=3), below limit of quantitation (n=1) and between 0.23 µg/ml (230 ng/ml) to 605 µg/ml (n=12) in the quantifiable range. Despite the high specificity of the monoclonal-monoclonal antibody sandwiches which discriminate vasoinhibin from PRL, there might be cross-reactivities by serum proteins other than vasoinhibin. A fully established vasoinhibin ELISA may support diagnostic and therapeutic measures in vascular diseases.
Derivation of Thyroid Follicular Cells From Pluripotent Stem Cells: Insights From Development and Implications for Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Posabella Alberto , Alber Andrea B. , Undeutsch Hendrik J. , Droeser Raoul A. , Hollenberg Anthony N. , Ikonomou Laertis , Kotton Darrell N.
Published: April 2021

Stem cell-based therapies to reconstitute in vivo organ function hold great promise for future clinical applications to a variety of diseases. Hypothyroidism resulting from congenital lack of functional thyrocytes, surgical tissue removal, or gland ablation, represents a particularly attractive endocrine disease target that may be conceivably cured by transplantation of long-lived functional thyroid progenitors or mature follicular epithelial cells, provided a source of autologous cells can be generated and a variety of technical and biological challenges can be surmounted. Here we review the emerging literature indicating that thyroid follicular epithelial cells can now be engineered in vitro from the pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) of mice, normal humans, or patients with congenital hypothyroidism. We review the in vivo embryonic development of the thyroid gland and explain how emerging discoveries in developmental biology have been utilized as a roadmap for driving PSCs, which resemble cells of the early embryo, into mature functional thyroid follicles in vitro. Finally, we discuss the bioengineering, biological, and clinical hurdles that now need to be addressed if the goals of life-long cure of hypothyroidism through cell- and/or gene-based therapies are to be attained.
Negative CO2 Emissions for Transportation
Authors: Jaspers B. C. , Kuo Po-Chih , Amladi Amogh , van Neerbos Wouter , Aravind P. V.
Published: April 2021

Negative emission technologies have recently received increasing attention due to climate change and global warming. One among them is bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), but the capture process is very energy intensive. Here, a novel pathway is introduced, based on second-generation biofuels followed by carbon circulation in an indefinitely closed chain, effectively resulting in a sink. Instead of using an energy-intensive conventional CCS process, the application of an on-board solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) running on biofuels in an electric vehicle (FCEV) could result in negative emissions by capturing a concentrated stream of CO2, which is readily stored in a second tank. A CO2 recovery system at the fuel station then takes the CO2 from the tank to be transported to storage locations or to be used for local applications such as CO2-based concrete curing and synthesis of e-fuels. Incorporating CO2 utilization technologies into the FCEVs-SOFC system can close the carbon loop, achieving carbon neutrality through feeding the CO2 in a reverse-logistic to a methanol plant. The methanol produced is also used in SOFCs, leading to an infinite repetition of this carbon cycle till a saturation stage is reached. It is determined this pathway will reach typical Cradle-to-Grave negative emissions of 0.515 ton CO2 per vehicle, and total negative CO2 emission of 138 Mt for all passenger cars in the EU is potentially achievable. All steps comprise known technologies with medium to high technology readiness level (TRL) levels, so principally this system can readily be applied in the mid-term.
Is Global Microbial Biodiversity Increasing, Decreasing, or Staying the Same?
Authors: Thaler David S.
Published: April 2021

Animal and plant biodiversity is decreasing. In contrast, the global direction and the pace of change in microbial, including viral, biodiversity is unknown. Important niches for microbial diversity occur in highly specific associations with plants and animals, and these niches are lost as hosts become extinct. The taxonomic diversity of human gut bacteria is reported to be decreasing. On the other hand, SARS-CoV-2 variation is increasing. Where microbes are concerned, Darwin’s “tangled bank” of interdependent organisms may be composed mostly of other microbes. There is the likelihood that as some classes of microbes become extinct, others evolve and diversify. A better handle on all processes that affect microbial biodiversity and their net balance is needed. Lack of insight into the dynamics of evolution of microbial biodiversity is arguably the single most profound and consequential unknown with regard to human knowledge of the biosphere. If some or all parts of microbial diversity are relentlessly increasing, then survey approaches may be too slow to ever catch up. New approaches, including single-molecule or single-cell sequencing in populations, as well as focused attention on modulators and vectors of vertical and horizontal evolution may offer more direct insights into some aspects of the pace of microbial evolution.
Acute Toxicity and DNA Instability Induced by Exposure to Low Doses of Triclosan and Phthalate DEHP, and Their Combinations, in vitro
Authors: Duarte Nathalia de Assis Aguilar , Lima Lindiane Eloisa de , Maraslis Flora Troina , Kundi Michael , Nunes Emilene Arusievicz , Barcelos Gustavo Rafael Mazzaron
Published: April 2021

Triclosan (TCS) is an antimicrobial agent widely used in personal care products (PCP) and the di-(2-ethyl hydroxy-phthalate) (DEHP) is a chemical compound derived from phthalic acid, used in medical devices and plastic products with polyvinyl chloride (PVCs). As result of their extensive use, TCS and DEHP have been found in the environment and previous studies demonstrated the association between their exposure and toxic effects, mostly in aquatic organisms, but there is a shortage in the literature concerning the exposure of TCS and DEHP in human cells. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of exposure to TCS and DEHP, as well as their combinations, on biomarkers related to acute toxicity and DNA instability, in HepG2 cells, by use of cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome (CBMNCyt) assay. For that, the cultures were exposed to TCS, DEHP and combinations at doses of 0.10, 1.0, and 10 μM for the period of 4 h and the parameters related to DNA damage (i.e., frequencies of micronuclei (MN) and nuclear buds (NBUDs), to cell division (i.e., nuclear division index (NDI) and nuclear division cytotoxic index (NDCI) and to cell death (apoptotic and necrotic cells) were scored. Clear mutagenic effects were seen in cells treated with TCS, DEHP at doses of 1.0 and 10 μM, but no combined effects were observed when the cells were exposed to the combinations of TCS + DEHP. On the other hand, the combination of the toxicants significantly increased the frequencies of apoptotic and necrotic cells, as well as induced alterations of biomarkers related to cell viability (NDI and NDCI), when compared to the groups treated only with TCS or DEHP. Taken together, the results showed that TCS and DEHP are also able to induce acute toxicity and DNA damage in human cells.
A Prognostic Model Based on the Immune-Related lncRNAs in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Qin Fengxia , Xu Houxi , Wei Guoli , Ji Yi , Yu Jialin , Hu Canhong , Yuan Chunyi , Ma Yuzhu , Qian Jun , Li Lingchang , Huo Jiege
Published: April 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors with a poor prognosis. At present, the pathogenesis is not completely clear. Therefore, finding reliable prognostic indicators for CRC is of important clinical significance. In this study, bioinformatics methods were used to screen the prognostic immune-related lncRNAs of CRC, and a prognostic risk scoring model based on immune-related lncRNAs signatures were constructed to provide a basis for prognostic evaluation and immunotherapy of CRC patients.

Methods

The clinical information and RNA-seq data of CRC patients were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The information of immune-related lncRNA was downloaded from the immunology database and analysis portal. The differentially expressed immune-related lncRNAs (IRLs) were screened by the edgeR package of R software. The prognostic value of IRLs was studied. Based on Cox regression analysis, a prognostic index (IRLPI) based on IRLs was established, and the relationship between the risk score and the clinicopathological characteristics of CRC was analyzed to determine the effectiveness of the risk score model as an independent prognostic factor.

Results

A total of 240 differentially expressed IRLs were identified between normal colorectal cancer tissues and normal colorectal cancer tissues, in which 8 were significantly associated with the survival of CRC patients (P < 0.05), including LINC00461, LINC01055, ELFN1-AS1, LMO7-AS1, CYP4A22-AS1, AC079612.1, LINC01351, and MIR31HG. And most of the lncRNAs related to survival were risk factors for the prognosis of CRC. The index established based on the 7 survival-related IRLs found to be highly accurate in monitoring CRC prognosis. Besides, IRLPI was significantly correlated with a variety of pathological factors and immune cell infiltration.

Conclusion

Eight immune-related lncRNAs closely related to the prognosis of CRC patients were identified from the TCGA database. At the same time, an independent IRLPI was constructed, which may be helpful for clinicians to assess the prognosis of patients with CRC and to formulate individualized treatment plans.
Cellular Responses to the Efferocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Authors: Yin Charles , Heit Bryan
Published: April 2021

The rapid and efficient phagocytic clearance of apoptotic cells, termed efferocytosis, is a critical mechanism in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Removal of apoptotic cells through efferocytosis prevents secondary necrosis and the resultant inflammation caused by the release of intracellular contents. The importance of efferocytosis in homeostasis is underscored by the large number of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including atherosclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus, that are characterized by defective apoptotic cell clearance. Although mechanistically similar to the phagocytic clearance of pathogens, efferocytosis differs from phagocytosis in that it is immunologically silent and induces a tissue repair response. Efferocytes face unique challenges resulting from the internalization of apoptotic cells, including degradation of the apoptotic cell, dealing with the extra metabolic load imposed by the processing of apoptotic cell contents, and the coordination of an anti-inflammatory, pro-tissue repair response. This review will discuss recent advances in our understanding of the cellular response to apoptotic cell uptake, including trafficking of apoptotic cell cargo and antigen presentation, signaling and transcriptional events initiated by efferocytosis, the coordination of an anti-inflammatory response and tissue repair, unique cellular metabolic responses and the role of efferocytosis in host defense. A better understanding of how efferocytic cells respond to apoptotic cell uptake will be critical in unraveling the complex connections between apoptotic cell removal and inflammation resolution and maintenance of tissue homeostasis.