bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pendampingan Komunitas Laskar Belajar Omah Harsa untuk Meningkatkan Motivasi dan Minat Belajar, Potensi Enterpreneurship, dan Pola Hidup Sehat
Authors: Prayitno Trio Ageng , Hidayati Nuril , M Mukarom , Jauharoh Firda Eka
Published: July 2024

The situation analysis shows that the motivation and interest in learning of Laskar Belajar Community Omah Harsa students is lacking, the students' entrepreneurial potential has not been developed, and the students' healthy lifestyle needs to be cultivated. Based on the agreement between the service team and partners, the Omah Harsa Community Learning Team's mentoring activities aim to increase students' motivation and interest in learning, entrepreneurship potential, and healthy lifestyles. The method of implementing service consists of observation, planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities. The place for service activities is the Omah Harsa Community Learning Army, Tanjungrejo Village, Sukun District, Malang City. The results of service activities show that student's motivation and interest in learning have increased by 71%, students' entrepreneurial potential has increased by 90%, and students' healthy lifestyles has increased by 85%. This service activity concludes that the service activity has a positive impact on the students of Laskar Belajar Community Omah Harsa in increasing motivation and interest in learning, entrepreneurial potential, and a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding urban vulnerability, resilience and adaptation: a conceptual framework
Authors: Tóth Veronika ,   Technical University of Košice, Šebová Miriam
Published: July 2024

Adaptation in cities is not an isolated process, but rather it is embedded in the broader debate on sustainable development, commons and public goods. Through examining adaptation, we touch upon the concepts of urban vulnerability and resilience and try to view cities as complex adaptive systems. Only through this wide optics we can understand climate change adaptation in its complexity. Our paper tries to review recent literature on resilience and adaptation using bibliometric metadata analysis on academic papers.
Political persuasion in international affairs: A computational sociolinguistic inquiry utilizing historical analysis of
US Congressional rhetoric from 1873 to 2017
Authors: Ramasubramanian Aishwarya
Published: July 2024

Negative sentiment, when used in the context of persuasion, can play a significant role in the effectiveness of spoken rhetoric. In this paper, sentiment analysis of publicly delivered Congressional speeches on relevant foreign policy legislation and events will be the center of exploration, evaluated through historical trends of that corresponding period. This evaluation element will be key in determining whether or not negative sentiments were successful and how overall sentiment in a speech evolved over one hundred and fifty years through computational sociolinguistic analysis. The paper explores the increase in negative sentiment by drastic global events, illustrating how negative sentiment became a necessity for significant foreign policy action.
How do penguins differ from kangaroos? Pluralization of vowel-final loan nouns in Hebrew
Authors: Laks Lior
Published: July 2024

The study examines variation in the pluralization of Hebrew loan nouns that end with a vowel. Most loan nouns take the plural suffix - im with no variation, while loan nouns that end with vowels other than a show variation with respect to deleting and not deleting the final vowel. Hebrew native nouns that end with vowels other than a are relatively rare and therefore the Hebrew morphological mechanism is not accustomed to pluralizing them. The paper proposes a hierarchy that predicts which vowels are more or less likely to be deleted. It is based on the accessibility of deletion in existing pluralization paradigms within native words, in addition to the interaction of markedness and faithfulness constraints. The study provides further support for the claim that the mechanism of word formation takes into account not only the word itself but also its relations to other words in a paradigm. In addition, it sheds light on morphological adaptation of loanwords and provides predictions with respect to their degree of integration.
DESTİNASYON YÖNETİMİNE BÖLGE TEMELLİ YAKLAŞIM: "FIRAT'I KEŞFET" ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: Erdem Aladağ Münire Tuğba , Ata Ahmet Yıldıray
Published: July 2024

Bu çalışma, destinasyon yönetimi ve bölgesel kalkınma arasındaki ilişkiyi Fırat Kalkınma Ajansı’nın (FKA) "Fırat’ı Keşfet" programı üzerinden incelemektedir. Destinasyonlar, turistlere bekledikleri deneyimleri sunan hizmet sağlayıcıları, kamu kurumları ve destekleyici sektörlerin kümelendiği coğrafi alanlardır. Turizm faaliyetlerinin çoğu bu alanlarda gerçekleşir, bu nedenle destinasyonlar turizm araştırmalarında temel analiz birimi olarak önem kazanmaktadır. Destinasyon yönetimi ise, bölgenin turizm kaynaklarını sürdürülebilir bir şekilde yöneterek, bölgenin turizm açısından çekiciliğini artırmayı ve rekabetçi avantajlar sağlamayı hedefleyen stratejik bir yaklaşımdır. Bu bağlamda çalışmada, Fırat Kalkınma Ajansı’nın bölgesel destinasyon yönetimi çerçevesinde uyguladığı stratejiler ve karşılaştığı zorluklar değerlendirilerek, bu süreçte elde edilen çözümler analiz edilmektedir. Vaka çalışması yöntemiyle yürütülen bu araştırma, destinasyon yönetimi ve bölgesel kalkınma konusundaki akademik literatüre katkı sağlamayı ve politika yapıcılar, iş dünyası liderleri ve toplum paydaşları için değerli içgörüler sunmayı amaçlamaktadır. Elde edilen bulgular, destinasyon yönetiminin bölgesel kalkınmaya olan katkısını ve sürdürülebilir turizm için stratejik yönetimin önemini vurgulamaktadır.
ALMANYA’DA TÜRK DİASPORASINA BİR BAKIŞ
Authors: Ataseven Fatma
Published: July 2024

Almanya'daki Türk diasporası, ülkenin en büyük ve etkili göçmen gruplarından birini oluşturuyor. İlk başlarda ekonomik nedenlerle gelen Türk işçiler zamanla Alman toplumunun ayrılmaz bir parçası haline geldiler. Günümüzde bu diaspora, eğitim, iş dünyası, sanat, spor ve siyaset gibi birçok alanda aktif rol oynuyor ve kültürel kimliğini korumak için çeşitli kurumlarla çaba gösteriyor. Araştırmalar, ilk kuşak Türk işçilerin düşük yaşam standartları ve entegrasyon zorlukları yaşadığını, ikinci kuşağın ise daha fazla entegre olduğunu ancak eğitimdeki fırsat eşitsizlikleri nedeniyle tam entegrasyon sağlayamadığını ortaya koyuyor. Ekonomik olarak diaspora, işsizlik ve düşük gelir gibi zorluklarla mücadele ederken, politik alanda temsil oranı düşük kalmaktadır. Bu bulgular, Türk diasporasının Almanya'daki toplumsal ve ekonomik entegrasyon süreçlerinin karmaşıklığını ve zorluklarını açıkça gözler önüne sermektedir.
Educator’s Horizontal Mismatch in Open and Distance Learning
Authors: Cahyadi Ni Made Ayu Krisna , Prima Suci Rahmawati , Sugiarti Dian
Published: July 2024

Open and distance learning (ODL) is more complex than conventional learning. Educators are required to have adequate soft skills and must be able to keep up with technological developments. The aim of this study is to examine the existence of educators’ horizontal mismatch in the ODL system and efforts to reduce the occurrence of this mismatch. Horizontal mismatch occurs due to a mismatch in the abilities of educators, whether the educator is over-qualified or under-qualified. This study was conducted on Universitas Terbuka tutors who have used ODL system since 1984. The results of this study show that tutors feel all their abilities are in line with university excpectations, but when carrying out teaching practice, university still found tutors who have difficulty in adapting to technological changes and have deficiencies in intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. Efforts that can be made are training to develop teaching material and soft skill, stricter supervision during the learning process, an official community of course lecturers, and the existence of team teaching between internal lecturers and tutors.
Integrative approach to pedobarography and pelvis-trunk motion for knee osteoarthritis detection and exploration of non-radiographic rehabilitation monitoring
Authors: Sarmah Arnab , Boruah Lipika , Ito Satoshi , Kanagaraj Subramani
Published: July 2024

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent global musculoskeletal disorder, and knee OA (KOA) accounts for four-fifths of the cases worldwide. It is a degenerative disorder that greatly affects the quality of life. Thus, it is managed through different methods, such as weight loss, physical therapy, and knee arthroplasty. Physical therapy aims to strengthen the knee periarticular muscles to improve joint stability.

Methods

Pedobarographic data and pelvis and trunk motion of 56 adults are recorded. Among them, 28 subjects were healthy, and 28 subjects were suffering from varying degrees of KOA. Age, sex, BMI, and the recorded variables are used together to identify subjects with KOA using machine learning (ML) models, namely, logistic regression, SVM, decision tree, and random forest. Surface electromyography (sEMG) signals are also recorded bilaterally from two muscles, the rectus femoris and biceps femoris caput longus, bilaterally during various activities for two healthy and six KOA subjects. Cluster analysis is then performed using the principal components obtained from time-series features, frequency features, and time–frequency features.

Results

KOA is successfully identified using the pedobarographic data and the pelvis and trunk motion with the highest accuracy and sensitivity of 89.3% and 85.7%, respectively, using a decision tree classifier. In addition, sEMG data have been successfully used to cluster healthy subjects from KOA subjects, with wavelet analysis features providing the best performance for the standing activity under different conditions.

Conclusion

KOA is detected using gait variables not directly related to the knee, such as pedobarographic measurements and pelvis and trunk motion captured by pedobarography mats and wearable sensors, respectively. KOA subjects are also distinguished from healthy individuals through clustering analysis using sEMG data from knee periarticular muscles during walking and standing. Gait data and sEMG complement each other, aiding in KOA identification and rehabilitation monitoring. It is important because wearable sensors simplify data collection, require minimal sample preparation, and offer a non-radiographic, safe method suitable for both laboratory and real-world scenarios. The decision tree classifier, trained with stratified k-fold cross validation (SKCV) data, is observed to be the best for KOA identification using gait data.
Unpacking the packaged optical fiber bio-sensors: understanding the obstacle for biomedical application
Authors: Bissen Aidana , Yunussova Nigara , Myrkhiyeva Zhuldyz , Salken Aiganym , Tosi Daniele , Bekmurzayeva Aliya
Published: July 2024

A biosensor is a promising alternative tool for the detection of clinically relevant analytes. Optical fiber as a transducer element in biosensors offers low cost, biocompatibility, and lack of electromagnetic interference. Moreover, due to the miniature size of optical fibers, they have the potential to be used in microfluidic chips and in vivo applications. The number of optical fiber biosensors are extensively growing: they have been developed to detect different analytes ranging from small molecules to whole cells. Yet the widespread applications of optical fiber biosensor have been hindered; one of the reasons is the lack of suitable packaging for their real-life application. In order to translate optical fiber biosensors into clinical practice, a proper embedding of biosensors into medical devices or portable chips is often required. A proper packaging approach is frequently as challenging as the sensor architecture itself. Therefore, this review aims to give an unpack different aspects of the integration of optical fiber biosensors into packaging platforms to bring them closer to actual clinical use. Particularly, the paper discusses how optical fiber sensors are integrated into flow cells, organized into microfluidic chips, inserted into catheters, or otherwise encased in medical devices to meet requirements of the prospective applications.
Unveiling the human fetal-maternal interface during the first trimester: biophysical knowledge and gaps
Authors: Masserdotti Alice , Gasik Michael , Grillari-Voglauer Regina , Grillari Johannes , Cargnoni Anna , Chiodelli Paola , Papait Andrea , Magatti Marta , Romoli Jacopo , Ficai Sara , Di Pietro Lorena , Lattanzi Wanda , Silini Antonietta Rosa , Parolini Ornella
Published: July 2024

The intricate interplay between the developing placenta and fetal-maternal interactions is critical for pregnancy outcomes. Despite advancements, gaps persist in understanding biomechanics, transport processes, and blood circulation parameters, all of which are crucial for safe pregnancies. Moreover, the complexity of fetal-maternal interactions led to conflicting data and methodological variations. This review presents a comprehensive overview of current knowledge on fetal-maternal interface structures, with a particular focus on the first trimester. More in detail, the embryological development, structural characteristics, and physiological functions of placental chorionic plate and villi, fetal membranes and umbilical cord are discussed. Furthermore, a description of the main structures and features of maternal and fetal fluid dynamic exchanges is provided. However, ethical constraints and technological limitations pose still challenges to studying early placental development directly, which calls for sophisticated in vitro, microfluidic organotypic models for advancing our understanding. For this, knowledge about key in vivo parameters are necessary for their design. In this scenario, the integration of data from later gestational stages and mathematical/computational simulations have proven to be useful tools. Notwithstanding, further research into cellular and molecular mechanisms at the fetal-maternal interface is essential for enhancing prenatal care and improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Ferrocenyl conjugated oxazepines/quinolines: multiyne coupling and ring–expanding or rearrangement
Authors: Lei Yu , Bao Li , Hu Qiong , Zhang Ke , Zong Lingli , Hu Yimin
Published: July 2024

Ferrocenyl conjugated oxazepine/quinoline derivatives were presented through the reaction of hexadehydro-Diels–Alder (HDDA) generated arynes with ferrocenyl oxazolines under mild conditions via ring-expanding or rearrangement processes. Water molecule participated in this unexpected rearrangement process to produce quinoline skeletons, and DFT calculations supported a ring-expanding and intramolecular hydrogen migration process for the formation of oxazepine derivatives. Two variants of this chemistry, expanded the reactivity between ferrocenyl conjugated substances and arynes, further providing an innovative approach for the synthesis of ferrocene derivatives.
PDIA iminosugar influence on subcutaneous Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in mice
Authors: Kozień Łucja , Policht Aleksandra , Heczko Piotr , Arent Zbigniew , Bracha Urszula , Pardyak Laura , Pietsch-Fulbiszewska Agnieszka , Gallienne Estelle , Piwowar Piotr , Okoń Krzysztof , Tomusiak-Plebanek Anna , Strus Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Biofilm-associated infections persist as a therapeutic challenge in contemporary medicine. The efficacy of antibiotic therapies is ineffective in numerous instances, necessitating a heightened focus on exploring novel anti-biofilm medical strategies. Among these, iminosugars emerge as a distinctive class of compounds displaying promising biofilm inhibition properties.

Methods

This study employs an in vivo wound infection mouse model to evaluate the effectiveness of PDIA in treating biofilm-associated skin wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Dermic wounds in mice were infected with biofilm-forming strains, specifically S. aureus 48 and P. aeruginosa 5, which were isolated from patients with diabetic foot, and are well-known for their strong biofilm formation. The subsequent analysis included clinical, microbiological, and histopathological parameters. Furthermore, an exploration into the susceptibility of the infectious strains to hydrogen peroxide was conducted, acknowledging its potential presence during induced inflammation in mouse dermal wounds within an in vivo model.

Results

The findings revealed the efficacy of PDIA iminosugar against the S. aureus strain, evidenced by a reduction in bacterial numbers within the wound and the inflammatory focus.

Discussion

This study suggests that PDIA iminosugar emerges as an active and potentially effective antibiofilm agent, positioning it as a viable treatment option for staphylococcal infections.
The influence range of the biogas desaturation method for mitigating sand liquefaction
Authors: Peng Erxing , Li Dandan , Hu Xiaoying , He Binbin , Dang Haiming , Liu Youqian
Published: July 2024

To clarify the influence range and saturation distribution after the biogas desaturation method is applied, a three-dimensional model is established with TOUGH2 software to analyze the effect of construction parameters such as grouting volume, grouting rate, grouting depth, nitrogen source concentration, and soil porosity. After that, the sensitivity of the parameters on the influence range is determined. The grouting volume and soil porosity are the most sensitive to the lateral and vertical influence range, respectively. This study provides a basis for the engineering practice of treating liquefiable subgrade by the biogas desaturation method.
Elementary students’ shared understanding of angle during an educational robotics task
Authors: Simpson Amber , Shokeen Ekta , Katirci Nihal , Williams-Pierce Caro
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Prior research has documented students’ struggles in conceiving of angle and angle measurement, which may stem from textbook and curriculum representations of angles as static. In this study, we examined grade 3-5 students’ mathematical thinking of angle during an educational robotics task implemented within a making space learning environment in a school setting (i.e., hybrid making space).

Methods

Our analysis included 19 video recordings of six groups of students in grades 3-5.

Results

Results from this study demonstrate how students negotiated a shared understanding of angle through multiple epistemic tools (e.g., gestures, bodily actions, language) that were situated and contextualized within the task. This included developing a shared language, conceptualizing angle as a dynamic entity, and perceiving angle through directionality and degree measures.

Discussion

We contend that learning experiences within a hybrid making space provide young students with opportunities to engage in mathematics as a social phenomenon and human activity.
Association of apolipoprotein A1 levels with lumbar bone mineral density and β-CTX in osteoporotic fracture individuals: a cross-sectional investigation
Authors: Feng Li-long , Lu Ke , Li Chong , Xu Min-zhe , Ye Yao-wei , Yin Yi , Shan Hui-qiang
Published: July 2024

Background

The relationship between the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and bone mineral density (BMD) is controversial. Furthermore, the specific role of apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), a primary HDL component, in regulating BMD remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the correlation between APOA1 levels and lumbar BMD in patients with osteoporotic fracture (OPF) for novel insights into potential therapeutic strategies against osteoporosis.

Methods

This study included 587 OPF patients enrolled at the Kunshan Hospital, Affiliated with Jiangsu University between January 2017 and July 2022. The patient’s serum APOA1 levels were determined, followed by the assessment of lumbar BMD and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX) as outcome variables. The association of APOA1 levels with lumbar BMD and β-CTX was assessed via Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and spline smoothing plot analyses. A generalized additive model (GAM) helped ascertain non-linear correlations. Moreover, a subgroup analysis was also conducted to validate the result’s stability.

Results

It was observed that APOA1 levels were positively correlated with lumbar BMD (β = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.11, p = 0.0045), indicating that increased APOA1 levels were linked with enhanced lumbar BMD. Furthermore, APOA1 levels were negatively related to β-CTX (β = −0.19, 95% CI: −0.29 to −0.09, p = 0.0003), suggesting APOA1 might reduce osteolysis. In addition, these findings were robustly supported by subgroup and threshold effect analyses.

Conclusion

This study indicated that increased APOA1 levels were correlated with enhanced lumbar BMD and decreased osteolysis in OPF patients. Therefore, APOA1 may inhibit osteoclast activity to prevent further deterioration in osteoporotic patients. However, further research I warranted to validate these conclusions and elucidate the underlying physiologies.
Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of resistance to fenhexamid, carboxin, and, prochloraz, in Botrytis cinerea isolates collected from cut roses in Colombia
Authors: Giraldo Diego , Saldarriaga Catalina , García Héctor , López Miguel , González Adriana
Published: July 2024

Gray mold, caused by Botrytis sp., is a significant disease in Colombian rose crops and its control depends primarily on the intensive use of chemically synthesized fungicides. Despite the importance of this pathogen, there is limited information in Colombian floriculture about molecular taxonomy of species, fungicide resistance of populations and their genetic mechanism of resistance. In this study, we analyze 12 isolates of this fungus collected from rose-producing crops in the Department of Cundinamarca and conducted phylogenetic analysis using HSP60, G3PDH, and RPB2 gene sequences. Additionally, we realize phenotypic and genotypic characterization of resistance to the fungicides fenhexamid, carboxin, and prochloraz, evaluating the in vitro EC50 and presence of mutations of target genes of each isolate. All isolates were characterized as Botrytis cinerea in the phylogenetic analysis and presents different levels of resistance to each fungicide. These levels are related to mutations in target genes, with predominancy of L195F and L400F in the ERG27 gene to fenhexamid resistance, H272R/Y in the SDHB gene for carboxin resistance, and Y136F in the CYP51 gene for prochloraz resistance. Finally, these mutations were not related to morphological changes. Collectively, this knowledge, presented for the first time to the Colombian floriculture, contribute to a better understanding of the genetic diversity and population of B. cinerea from rose-producing crops in the department of Cundinamarca, and serve as a valuable tool for making informed decisions regarding disease management, future research, and improving crop management and sustainability in the Colombian floriculture industry.
Synergistic action of antimicrobial peptides and antibiotics: current understanding and future directions
Authors: Taheri-Araghi Sattar
Published: July 2024

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global problem that requires innovative therapeutic approaches and strategies for administering antibiotics. One promising approach is combination therapy, in which two or more drugs are combined to combat an infection. Along this line, the combination of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with conventional antibiotics has gained attention mainly due to the complementary mechanisms of action of AMPs and conventional antibiotics. In this article, we review both in vitro and in vivo studies that explore the synergy between AMPs and antibiotics. We highlight several mechanisms through which synergy is observed in in vitro experiments, including increasing membrane permeability, disrupting biofilms, directly potentiating antibiotic efficacy, and inhibiting resistance development. Moreover, in vivo studies reveal additional mechanisms such as enhanced/modulated immune responses, reduced inflammation, and improved tissue regeneration. Together, the current literature demonstrates that AMP-antibiotic combinations can substantially enhance efficacy of antibiotic therapies, including therapies against resistant bacteria, which represents a valuable enhancement to current antimicrobial strategies.
Comparison of microbiota structure in reproductive tract of Yanbian cattle and Yanhuang cattle
Authors: Teng Yunkun , Feng Shuai , Gu Zhuoxuan , Hou Chunqi , Xu Haoran , Li Zhiqiang , Zhao Jing , Fang Yi , Ma Xin , Liu Hongyu , Guo Jing , Wang Jun , Ding He , Lu Wenfa
Published: July 2024

Microbiota in the reproductive tract of cattle play a vital role in maintaining normal reproduction. However, the information on microbiota in different parts of reproductive tracts with different genetic background is few. The aim of the present study was to describe and compare the microbiota in vagina, cervix and uterus of Yanbian cattle and Yanhuang cattle. The results showed that microbial diversity increases from the vagina to the uterus. The top three bacterial phyla in bovine reproductive tract were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, accounting for more than 85%. From the vagina to the uterus, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria gradually decreased, while that of Firmicutes gradually increased. Phylum-level Firmicutes and genus-level UCG_010 were significantly enriched in the uterus of Yanbian cattle and Yanhuang cattle. Comparing the same parts of the two breeds, it was found that there was no significant difference in alpha diversity, but significant differences in beta diversity. In addition, microbiota with significant differences in the relative abundance of the reproductive tract were found. These findings lay a foundation for a comprehensive understanding of the structure of the genital tract microbiota of cows and its regulatory mechanisms.
Advances in silver nanoparticles: a comprehensive review on their potential as antimicrobial agents and their mechanisms of action elucidated by proteomics
Authors: Rodrigues Adriana S. , Batista Jorge G. S. , Rodrigues Murilo Á. V. , Thipe Velaphi C. , Minarini Luciene A. R. , Lopes Patricia S. , Lugão Ademar B.
Published: July 2024

Nanoparticles play a crucial role in the field of nanotechnology, offering different properties due to their surface area attributed to their small size. Among them, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted significant attention due to their antimicrobial properties, with applications that date back from ancient medicinal practices to contemporary commercial products containing ions or silver nanoparticles. AgNPs possess broad-spectrum biocidal potential against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and Mycobacterium, in addition to exhibiting synergistic effects when combined with certain antibiotics. The mechanisms underlying its antimicrobial action include the generation of oxygen-reactive species, damage to DNA, rupture of bacterial cell membranes and inhibition of protein synthesis. Recent studies have highlighted the effectiveness of AgNPs against various clinically relevant bacterial strains through their potential to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This review investigates the proteomic mechanisms by which AgNPs exert their antimicrobial effects, with a special focus on their activity against planktonic bacteria and in biofilms. Furthermore, it discusses the biomedical applications of AgNPs and their potential non-preparation of antibiotic formulations, also addressing the issue of resistance to antibiotics.
Distribution, community structure and assembly patterns of phytoplankton in the northern South China Sea
Authors: Zou Jian , Xiao Yayuan , Wu Peng , Wang Teng , Lin Lin , Liu Yu , Liu Yong , Li Chunhou
Published: July 2024

A cruise was conducted in the summer of 2023 from the Pearl River Estuary (PRE) to the adjacent waters of the Xisha Islands in the northern South China Sea (NSCS) to investigate the distribution, community structure, and assembly patterns of eukaryotic and prokaryotic phytoplankton using high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and microscopic observation. Dinophyta were the most abundant phylum in the eukaryotic phytoplankton community based on HTS, accounting for 92.17% of the total amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). Syndiniales was the most abundant order among eukaryotic phytoplankton, whereas Prochlorococcus was the most abundant genus within cyanobacteria. The alpha diversity showed the lowest values in the PRE area and decreased gradually with depth, while cyanobacteria exhibited higher alpha diversity indices in the PRE and at depths ranging from 75 m to 750 m. The morphological results were different from the data based on HTS. Diatoms (37 species) dominated the phytoplankton community, with an average abundance of 3.01 × 104 cells L−1, but only six species of dinoflagellate were observed. Spearman correlation analysis and redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the distribution and community structure of phytoplankton were largely influenced by geographical location and environmental parameters in the NSCS. The neutral community model (NCM) and null model indicated that deterministic processes played a significant role in the assembly of eukaryotic phytoplankton, with heterogeneous selection and homogeneous selection accounting for 47.27 and 29.95%, respectively. However, stochastic processes (over 60%) dominated the assembly of cyanobacteria and undominated processes accounted for 63.44%. In summary, the formation of eukaryotic phytoplankton was mainly influenced by environmental factors and geographic location, but the assembly of cyanobacteria was shaped by both stochastic processes, which accounted for over 60%, and environmental selection in the NSCS.
Safety evaluation of recombinant Newcastle disease virus expressing IBV multi-epitope chimeric live vaccine
Authors: Tan Lei , Qiu Xusheng , Liang Lujing , Liao Xin , Wang Fei , Sun Yingjie , Song Cuiping , Liao Ying , Ding Chan
Published: July 2024

Newcastle Disease (ND) and Infectious Bronchitis (IB) are two significant diseases that pose threats to the poultry industry, caused by Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), respectively. Currently, the control and prevention of these diseases primarily rely on vaccination. However, commercial ND and IB vaccines face challenges such as poor cross-protection of inactivated IBV strains and interference from live vaccines when used together, leading to immunization failures. Previously, we reported the successful rescue of a recombinant NDV expressing multiple epitopes of IBV, named rNDV-IBV-T/B, which showed promising immunoprotective efficacy against both NDV and IBV. This study focuses on the biosafety of the genetically modified recombinant vaccine candidate rNDV-IBV-T/B. Immunization was performed on day-old chicks, ducklings, goslings, and ICR mice. Observations were recorded on clinical symptoms, body weight changes, and post-mortem examination of organs, as well as histopathological preparations of tissue samples. The results indicated that the rNDV-IBV-T/B vaccine candidate had no adverse effects on the growth of targeted animals (chickens) and non-target species (ducks, geese) as well as in mammals (mice). Additionally, histopathological slides confirmed that the vaccine is safe for all tested species. Further studies evaluated the potential of rNDV-IBV-T/B to spread horizontally and vertically post-immunization, and its environmental safety. The findings revealed that the vaccine candidate lacks the capability for both horizontal and vertical transmission and does not survive in the environment. In conclusion, the rNDV-IBV-T/B strain is safe and holds potential as a new chimeric live vaccine for ND and IB.
In vitro study of ATP1A3 p.Ala275Pro mutant causing alternating hemiplegia of childhood and rapid-onset dystonia-parkinsonism
Authors: Ruan Dan-dan , Zou Jing , Liao Li-sheng , Ji Ming-dong , Wang Ruo-li , Zhang Jian-hui , Zhang Li , Gao Mei-zhu , Chen Qian , Yu Hong-ping , Wei Wen , Li Yun-fei , Li Hong , Lin Fan , Luo Jie-wei , Lin Xin-fu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

We previously reported that ATP1A3 c.823G>C (p.Ala275Pro) mutant causes varying phenotypes of alternative hemiplegia of childhood and rapid-onset dystonia-parkinsonism in the same family. This study aims to investigate the function of ATP1A3 c.823G>C (p.Ala275Pro) mutant at the cellular and zebrafish models.

Methods

ATP1A3 wild-type and mutant Hela cell lines were constructed, and ATP1A3 mRNA expression, ATP1A3 protein expression and localization, and Na+-K+-ATPase activity in each group of cells were detected. Additionally, we also constructed zebrafish models with ATP1A3 wild-type overexpression (WT) and p.Ala275Pro mutant overexpression (MUT). Subsequently, we detected the mRNA expression of dopamine signaling pathway-associated genes, Parkinson’s disease-associated genes, and apoptosisassociated genes in each group of zebrafish, and observed the growth, development, and movement behavior of zebrafish.

Results

Cells carrying the p.Ala275Pro mutation exhibited lower levels of ATP1A3 mRNA, reduced ATP1A3 protein expression, and decreased Na+-K+-ATPase activity compared to wild-type cells. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that ATP1A3 was primarily localized in the cytoplasm, but there was no significant difference in ATP1A3 protein localization before and after the mutation. In the zebrafish model, both WT and MUT groups showed lower brain and body length, dopamine neuron fluorescence intensity, escape ability, swimming distance, and average swimming speed compared to the control group. Moreover, overexpression of both wild-type and mutant ATP1A3 led to abnormal mRNA expression of genes associated with the dopamine signaling pathway and Parkinson’s disease in zebrafish, and significantly upregulated transcription levels of bad and caspase-3 in the apoptosis signaling pathway, while reducing the transcriptional level of bcl-2 and the bcl-2/bax ratio.

Conclusion

This study reveals that the p.Ala275Pro mutant decreases ATP1A3 protein expression and Na+/K+-ATPase activity. Abnormal expression of either wild-type or mutant ATP1A3 genes impairs growth, development, and movement behavior in zebrafish.
Research progress in the mechanism of acupuncture regulating microglia in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Liu Jia , Zhou Jiaqi , You Chong , Xia Haonan , Gao Yuling , Liu Yong , Gong Xiaoyang
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease in the central nervous system, characterized by memory and cognitive dysfunction. Acupuncture is an effective means to alleviate the symptoms of AD. Recent studies have shown that microglia play an important role in the occurrence and development of AD. Acupuncture can regulate the activity of microglia, inhibit neuroinflammation, regulate phagocytosis, and clear Aβ Pathological products such as plaque can protect nerve cells and improve cognitive function in AD patients. This article summarizes the relationship between microglia and AD, as well as the research progress in the mechanism of acupuncture regulating microglia in the treatment of AD. The mechanism of acupuncture regulating microglia in the treatment of AD is mainly reviewed from two aspects: inhibiting neuroinflammatory activity and regulating phagocytic function.
Efficacy and survival outcome of allogeneic stem-cell transplantation in multiple myeloma: meta-analysis in the recent 10 years
Authors: Lin Si Yu , Lu Ke Jie , Zheng Xiao Na , Hou Jian , Liu Ting Ting
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) possessed direct cytotoxicity and graft-versus-multiple myeloma effect (GvMM). Growing trials have shown survival benefits of performing alloHCT in both newly diagnosed and relapsed MM.

Methods

We aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis in the recent 10 years to verify the efficacy and survival outcome of alloHCT in MM patients. A total of 61 studies which provide data between 14/04/2013 and 14/04/2023 and a total of 15,294 data from MM patients who had undergone alloSCT were included in our study. The best response rates (CR, VGPR, PR) and survival outcomes (1-, 2-, 3-,5-, and 10-year OS, PFS, NRM) were assessed. We further conducted meta-analysis in the NDMM/frontline setting and RRMM/salvage setting independently.

Results

The pooled estimate CR, VGPR, and PR rates were 0.45, 0.21, and 0.24, respectively. The pooled estimates of 1-, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS were 0.69, 0.57, 0.45, 0.45, and 0.36, respectively; the pooled estimates of 1-, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year PFS were 0.47, 0.35, 0.24, 0.25, and 0.28, respectively; and the pooled estimates of 1-, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year NRM were 0.16, 0.21, 0.16, 0.20, and 0.15, respectively. In the NDMM/upfront setting, the pooled estimate CR rate was 0.54, and those for 5-year OS, PFS, and NRM were 0.69, 0.40, and 0.11, respectively. In a relapsed setting, the pooled estimate CR rate was 0.31, and those for 5-year OS, PFS, and NRM were 0.24, 0.10, and 0.15, respectively.

Discussion

Our results showed constant OS, PFS, and NRM from the third year onwards till the 10th year, suggesting that alloSCT has sustained survival benefits. Good response rate and promising survival outcome were observed in the NDMM/ frontline setting.

Conclusion

Although comparing with other treatments, alloSCT had a lower response rate and poorer short-term survival outcome, long-term follow-up could reveal survival benefits of alloSCT in MM patients.
Confronting the challenge: a regional perspective by the Latin American pediatric infectious diseases society (SLIPE) expert group on respiratory syncytial virus—tackling the burden of disease and implementing preventive solutions
Authors: Debbag Roberto , Ávila-Agüero María L. , Brea José , Brenes-Chacon Helena , Colomé Manuel , de Antonio Rodrigo , Díaz-Díaz Alejandro , Falleiros-Arlant Luiza Helena , Fernández Gerardo , Gentile Angela , Gutiérrez Iván Felipe , Jarovsky Daniel , del Valle Juárez María , López-Medina Eduardo , Mascareñas Abiel , Ospina-Henao Sebastián , Safadi Marco A. , Sáez-Llorens Xavier , Soriano-Fallas Alejandra , Torres Juan P. , Torres-Martínez Carlos N. , Beltrán-Arroyave Claudia
Published: July 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections in children around the world. The post-pandemic era has resulted in a notable increase in reported cases of RSV infections, co-circulation of other respiratory viruses, shifts in epidemiology, altered respiratory season timing, and increased healthcare demand. Low- and middle-income countries are responsible for the highest burden of RSV disease, contributing significantly to health expenses during respiratory seasons and RSV-associated mortality in children. Until recently, supportive measures were the only intervention to treat or prevent RSV-infection, since preventive strategies like palivizumab are limited for high-risk populations. Advances in new available strategies, such as long-acting monoclonal antibodies during the neonatal period and vaccination of pregnant women, are now a reality. As the Regional Expert Group of the Latin American Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (SLIPE), we sought to evaluate the burden of RSV infection in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region, analyze current strategies to prevent RSV infection in children, and provide recommendations for implementing new strategies for preventing RSV infection in children in LAC region.
A new perspective on proteinuria and drug therapy for diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Ruimin , Wang Qian , Li Yaqing , Li Qihu , Zhou Xuefeng , Chen Xiangmei , Dong Zheyi
Published: July 2024

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the leading causes of end-stage renal disease worldwide and significantly increases the risk of premature death due to cardiovascular diseases. Elevated urinary albumin levels are an important clinical feature of DKD. Effective control of albuminuria not only delays glomerular filtration rate decline but also markedly reduces cardiovascular disease risk and all-cause mortality. New drugs for treating DKD proteinuria, including sodium-glucose cotransporter two inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and endothelin receptor antagonists, have shown significant efficacy. Auxiliary treatment with proprietary Chinese medicine has also yielded promising results; however, it also faces a broader scope for development. The mechanisms by which these drugs treat albuminuria in patients with DKD should be described more thoroughly. The positive effects of combination therapy with two or more drugs in reducing albuminuria and protecting the kidneys warrant further investigation. Therefore, this review explores the pathophysiological mechanism of albuminuria in patients with DKD, the value of clinical diagnosis and prognosis, new progress and mechanisms of treatment, and multidrug therapy in patients who have type 2 diabetic kidney disease, providing a new perspective on the clinical diagnosis and treatment of DKD.
Activation of PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP branch of endoplasmic reticulum stress response and cooperation between HIF-1α and ATF4 promotes Daprodustat-induced vascular calcification
Authors: Tóth Andrea , Lente Gréta , Csiki Dávid Máté , Balogh Enikő , Szöőr Árpád , Nagy Béla , Jeney Viktória
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Vascular calcification is accelerated in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and increases the risk of cardiovascular events. CKD is frequently associated with anemia. Daprodustat (DPD) is a prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor for the treatment of CKD-associated anemia that enhances erythropoiesis through the activation of the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) pathway. Studies showed that DPD promotes osteogenic differentiation of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs) and increases aorta calcification in mice with CKD. HIF-1 activation has been linked with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress; therefore, here we investigated the potential contribution of ER stress, particularly activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), to the pro-calcification effect of DPD.

Methods: Here, we used an adenine-induced CKD mouse model and HAoSMCs as an in vitro vascular calcification model to study the effect of DPD.

Results: DPD treatment (15 mg/kg/day) corrects anemia but increases the expression of hypoxia (Glut1, VEGFA), ER stress (ATF4, CHOP, and GRP78), and osteo-/chondrogenic (Runx2, Sox9, BMP2, and Msx2) markers and accelerates aorta and kidney calcification in CKD mice. DPD activates the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP pathway and promotes high phosphate-induced osteo-/chondrogenic differentiation of HAoSMCs. Inhibition of ER stress with 4-PBA or silencing of ATF4 attenuates HAoSMC calcification. DPD-induced ATF4 expression is abolished in the absence of HIF-1α; however, knockdown of ATF4 does not affect HIF-1α expression.

Conclusion: We concluded that DPD induces ER stress in vitro and in vivo, in which ATF4 serves as a downstream effector of HIF-1 activation. Targeting ATF4 could be a potential therapeutic approach to attenuate the pro-calcific effect of DPD.
Unlocking the potential of stimuli-responsive biomaterials for bone regeneration
Authors: Yang Ke , Wu Zhuoshu , Zhang Keke , Weir Michael D. , Xu Hockin H. K. , Cheng Lei , Huang Xiaojing , Zhou Wen
Published: July 2024

Bone defects caused by tumors, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis attract great attention. Because of outstanding biocompatibility, osteogenesis promotion, and less secondary infection incidence ratio, stimuli-responsive biomaterials are increasingly used to manage this issue. These biomaterials respond to certain stimuli, changing their mechanical properties, shape, or drug release rate accordingly. Thereafter, the activated materials exert instructive or triggering effects on cells and tissues, match the properties of the original bone tissues, establish tight connection with ambient hard tissue, and provide suitable mechanical strength. In this review, basic definitions of different categories of stimuli-responsive biomaterials are presented. Moreover, possible mechanisms, advanced studies, and pros and cons of each classification are discussed and analyzed. This review aims to provide an outlook on the future developments in stimuli-responsive biomaterials.
Mild-moderate alcohol consumption and diabetes are associated with liver fibrosis in patients with biopsy-proven MASLD
Authors: Huang Ang , Zou Cailun , Dai Zhe , Sun Ying , Wang Jing , Liu Shuhong , Han Lin , Chen Songhai , Liang Qingsheng , Wang Chunyan , Zhuang Yingjie , Dang Tong , Chang Binxia , Wang Yijin , Zou Zhengsheng
Published: July 2024

Background

It is unclear whether patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are allowed variable low levels of alcohol. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of mild-moderate alcohol consumption on the biochemical and histological characteristics of patients with MASLD.

Methods

Alcohol consumption was assessed in 713 patients with steatotic liver disease (SLD) who underwent liver biopsy. Non-drinking, mild-moderate drinking, and excessive drinking were defined as 0 g/day, 1-<20 g/day, and >20 g/day for women and 0 g/day, 1-<30 g/day, and >30 g/day for men, respectively. Liver biopsies were scored according to the NASH CRN system.

Results

A total of 713 participants (median age 39.0 years and 77.1% male) with biopsy-proven SLD were enrolled, including 239 nondrinkers, 269 mild-moderate drinkers and 205 excessive drinkers. Excessive drinking was associated with increased risks for lobular inflammation and liver fibrosis compared to nondrinkers and mild-moderate drinkers. Compared with non-drinkers, mild-moderate drinkers had significantly lower odds for steatosis (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.38–0.93, p = 0.025), hepatocellular ballooning (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.29–0.91, p = 0.020) and fibrosis (OR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.31–0.81, p = 0.005). However, in non-excessive drinkers with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), there was no association between mild-moderate alcohol consumption and liver fibrosis (OR = 0.562, 95% CI = 0.207–1.530, p = 0.257).

Conclusions

Mild-moderate alcohol consumption might be protective against liver fibrosis in MASLD patients, which is modified by the presence of T2DM. However, further longitudinal studies are needed to determine the effect of ongoing alcohol consumption on disease severity.
Organ-specific transcriptional regulation by HFR1 and HY5 in response to shade in Arabidopsis
Authors: Choi Ian Kin Yuen , Chaturvedi Amit Kumar , Sng Benny Jian Rong , Vu Kien Van , Jang In-Cheol
Published: July 2024

Light is crucial for plants and serves as a signal for modulating their growth. Under shade, where red to far-red light ratio is low, plants exhibit shade avoidance responses (SAR). LONG HYPOCOTYL IN FAR-RED 1 (HFR1) and ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5) are known to be negative regulators of SAR and physically interact with one another. However, transcriptional regulatory network underlying SAR by these two transcription factors has not been explored. Here, we performed organ-specific transcriptome analyses of Arabidopsis thaliana hfr1-5, hy5-215 and hfr1hy5 to identify genes that are co-regulated by HFR1 and HY5 in hypocotyls and cotyledons. Genes co-regulated by HFR1 and HY5 were enriched in various processes related to cell wall modification and chlorophyll biosynthesis in hypocotyls. Phytohormone (abscisic acid and jasmonic acid) and light responses were significantly regulated by HFR1 and HY5 in both organs, though it is more prominent under shade in cotyledons. HFR1 and HY5 also differentially regulate the expression of the cell wall-related genes for xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase, expansin, arabinogalactan protein and class III peroxidase depending on the organs. Furthermore, HFR1 and HY5 cooperatively regulated hypocotyl responsiveness to shade through auxin metabolism. Together, our study illustrates the importance of the HFR1-HY5 module in regulating organ-specific shade responses in Arabidopsis.