bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interazioni conversazionali, manipolazioni linguistiche e emergenza di abilità logiche in attività matematiche
Authors: Coppola Cristina , Iannaccone Antonio , Mollo Monica , Pacelli Tiziana
Published: May 2021

In questo lavoro, in accordo con la prospettiva vygotskiana e focalizzando su alcuni aspetti della logica matematica, viene presentata una riflessione derivante da un insieme di ricerche che esplorano le relazioni tra linguaggio e sviluppo di abilità logiche. Si descrive la progettazione/implementazione di un dispositivo educativo, articolato in attività linguistico-manipolative realizzate in classi quarte di scuola primaria. Le attività si basano sulla costruzione e manipolazione di un linguaggio simbolico, socialmente condiviso, nato per far muovere un “bambino-robot” in una stanza. L’analisi qualitativa degli scambi sociali e del contenuto delle interviste di esplicitazione ha permesso di evidenziare come, attraverso il confronto dei diversi punti di vista, i bambini realizzano un processo dinamico di costruzione e negoziazione di significati matematici. In particolare, sono presentati alcuni temi comuni emersi dalle interviste che mostrano le modalità di elaborare le attività da parte dei bambini, collegate ad aspetti interindividuali e intraindividuali.
PENERAPAN KONSEP BALANCED SCORECARD DALAM PENGUKURAN KINERJA INSTANSI PEMERINTAH PADA INSTITUT PEMERINTAHAN DALAM NEGERI
Authors: Rasidi Rasidi , Sadmoko Rudi
Published: May 2021

Performance in the public sector is multidimensional and comprehensive, so that the nature of output produced by the public sector is more intangible output, so to measure the performance of the public sector it is necessary to choose a comprehensive performance measurement technique that is the Balanced Scorecard.

Research Objectives to describe the application of each Balanced Scorecard perspective in measuring agency performance. The research method used is descriptive qualitative method.

IPDN is a public sector organization with a main focus on output that is "producing competent, character and personality cadres of government" which ultimately to serve and improve the welfare of the community. Thus the need for innovative development in implementing a comprehensive organizational performance measurement system that can be implemented by the work unit in measuring the performance of agencies as outlined in the Government Agency Performance Report.

The concept of the Balanced Scorecard is integrated into the IPDN Strategic map and then mapped in the perspective mapping matrix, indicators, weights, and sources of measurement data, so that formulations for Organizational Performance Values ​​can be identified. The modification of the Balanced Scorecard method applied by IPDN agencies includes 4 (four) perspectives namely Customer & stakeholders perspective, Financial perspective, Internal business process perspective, and Learning and Growth perspective. Keywords: Balanced Scorecard, Strategic map, performance
PENYUSUNAN RENCANA TATA RUANG WILAYAH (RTRW) PERTAHANAN PADA IBU KOTA BARU REPUBLIK INDONESIA
Authors: Subagyo Agus , Madjid Udaya
Published: May 2021

Penelitian ini menganalisis tentang Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah (RTRW) Pertahanan Negara pada Ibu Kota Baru Republik Indonesia, yang seharusnya dirancang melalui dua pendekatan sekaligus, yakni pendekatan kesejahteraan (prosperity approach) dan pendekatan keamanan (security approach), sehingga akan mampu menjadi ibu kota yang smart and green city sekaligus juga menjadi secure and defence city, dalam menghadapi ancaman, baik ancaman militer maupun ancaman nir militer. Dengan menggunakan metode kualitatif dan teknik pengumpulan data berupa observasi, wawancara, dan studi literatur / penelaahan dokumentasi, disimpulkan bahwa diperlukan road map RTRW pertahanan negara pada ibu kota Republik Indonesia yang dirancang secara terpadu, terintegrasi, terpola, dan berkelanjutan.
MODEL PENGUKURAN AKUNTABILITAS KINERJA DPRD DALAM KONTEKS GOOD GOVERNANCE
Authors: Wasistiono Sadu
Published: May 2021

Indonesia adalah salah satu negara yang menjalankan desentralisasi terbesar di dunia, dilihat dari kewenangan pemerintah pusat yang ditransfer ke daerah, pemberian dana perimbangan, maupun personil yang dipindahkan. Ada tiga tujuan desentralisasi yakni tujuan politik, tujuan administrasi, dan tujuan sosial ekonomi. Salah satu tujuan desentralisasi yakni tujuan politik adalah membuat infrastruktur dan suprastruktur politik di daerah lebih demokratis dan akuntabel. Seiring dengan besarnya kewenangan dan dana yang dikelola oleh daerah otonom, perlu diimbangi dengan akuntabilitasnya. Hal ini sesuai dengan salah satu karakteristik good governance. Selama ini pengukuran akuntabilitas lebih ditujukan kepada pemerintah daerah yang terdiri dari kepala daerah dan OPD (organisasi pemerintah daerah). Padahal dalam pengertian pemerintahan daerah ada pemerintah daerah dan DPRD. Pengukuran akuntabilitas kinerja DPRD seringkali diartikan dengan pengukuran kinerja Sekretariat DPRD sebagai bagian dari OPD, padahal DPRD sebagai Lembaga politik seharusnya memiliki parameter yang berbeda dengan OPD. Parameter kinerja DPRD seharusnya berkaitan dengan fungsi-fungsinya, bukan hanya diukur dari pemanfaatan dana yang dikelola oleh Sekretariat DPRD. Sampai saat ini belum ada pengukuran kinerja DPRD yang sesuai fungsinya, sehingga perlu disusun sebuah model yang akan mencakup pengukuran fungsi penyusunan Perda, fungsi anggaran, fungsi pengawasan, serta fungsi representasinya.
EFEKTIVITAS RETAIL MINANG MART BERBASIS KEARIFAN LOKAL SEBAGAI ALTERNATIF FRANCHISE DI KOTA PADANG
Authors: NALIEN ELVIRA MULYA
Published: May 2021

Dewasa kini bisnis waralaba atau franchise dipandang sebagai jenis usaha yang menjanjikan keuntungan besar. Terutama pada retail minimarket seperti Indomaret dan Alfamart. Meski demikian dua mini market tersebut tidak dapat ditemukan di Sumatera Barat yang justru menawarkan Minang Mart sebagai retail modern yang sarat kearifan lokal. Mengingat Minang Mart merupakan Program Utama TPKAD dan dikelola oleh tiga BUMD Sumatera Barat serta diramaikan oleh UMKM lokal. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif dan metode induktif. Pengumpulan data dengan menggunakan teknik wawancara, observasi dan penelaahan terhadap dokumen terkait. Sedangkan Teknik Snowball Sampling digunakan dalam penentuan informan. Adapun tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui dan mengukur efektivitas Retail Minang Mart berbasiskan kearifan lokal sebagai alternatif franchise di Kota Padang. Terhadap efektivitas retail ini, diukur berdasarkan indikator pengukuran efektivitas menurut Siagian seperti Kejelasan yang Hendak Dicapai, Kejelasan Strategi Pencapaian tujuan, Proses Analisis dan Perumusan Kebijaksanaan yang Mantap, Perencanan yang Matang, Penyusunan Program yang Tepat, Tersedia Sarana dan Prasarana Pendukung serta Sistem Pengawasan dan Pengendalian yang bersifat mendidik. Diantara indikator tersebut yang telah berlangsung dengan baik adalah Tersedia Sarana dan Prasarana Pendukung.
Effectiveness of Leininger's Transcultural-based GATHER Counseling Model on Exclusive Breastfeeding
Authors: Karnasih I Gusti Ayu
Published: May 2021

Objective: to analyze the effectiveness of Leininger’s Transcultural-based GATHER (Greet, Ask, Tell, Help, Explain, and Return/refer) Counseling Model for exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: The experimental research was conducted with the post-test only control group design. The sample size of control group and treatment group were 38 people. The sampling technique is a simple random sampling technique. The treatment group were third stage III pregnant women with a gestational age of 36-37 weeks and at the second day postpartum. Data were collected using questionnaires and observations of 76 breastfeeding mothers in Jember Regency, then analyzed using Mann Whitney-U test. Results: The results showed that postpartum mothers who were given Leininger's Transcultural-based GATHER Counseling Model showed a higher percentage of exclusive breastfeeding (81.1%) than postpartum mothers who were not given counseling (21.6%). The results of hypothesis testing showed p-value of 0.000, meaning that the hypothesis was accepted so that it could be said that exclusive breastfeeding for mothers who were given counseling was higher than those who were not given Leininger's Transcultural-based GATHER Counseling Model and it was effective in increasing milk production. Conclusion: Leininger's Transcultural-based GATHER Counseling Model is effective in increasing exclusive breastfeeding, this model facilitates understanding and management of the factors that cause problems, breastfeeding.

Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding; GATHER counseling model; Leininger’s transcultural model
Effectiveness of Midwifery Training Update on Midwife Knowledge Improvement in Midwifery Services in Magetan
Authors: Surtinah Nani , Sunarto Sunarto
Published: May 2021

2Department of Midwifery, Poltekkes Kemenkes Surabaya, Indonesia; sunartoyahyamuqaffi@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

One of the efforts made to improve the knowledge, skills and competence of midwives is the Midwifery Update training. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of midwifery update training on increasing knowledge of midwives in midwifery services. The study design was a post-test only control group design. The population consisted of an experimental group of 41 people and a control group of 41 people. The experimental group had the midwifery update training in 2019, while the control group was midwives who had never attended midwifery update training in 2019. The experimental group and the control group were selected by using cluster sampling technique after that the sample selection used simple random sampling. Data analysis was used independent samples t -test. The mean knowledge results of the midwifery update group that had never attended midwifery update training was 55.11, while the mean knowledge results of the midwifery update group knowledge was 75.19. Based on the independent t-test, it was found that the t-count results were -8,987 with a p-value of 0.000 (
Mussel Inspired Chemistry and Bacteria Derived Polymers for Oral Mucosal Adhesion and Drug Delivery
Authors: Owji Nazanin , Mandakhbayar Nandin , Gregory David A. , Marcello Elena , Kim Hae-won , Roy Ipsita , Knowles Jonathan C.
Published: May 2021

Graphical Abstract

Illustration of PHA synthesis followed by a simple muscle inspired chemistry polydopamine coating.
Molecular Mechanisms of Chondrocyte Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Chen Hui , Tan Xiao-Ning , Hu Shi , Liu Ren-Qin , Peng Li-Hong , Li Yong-Min , Wu Ping
Published: May 2021

Cartilage is a kind of connective tissue that buffers pressure and is essential to protect joint movement. It is difficult to self-recover once cartilage is damaged due to the lack of blood vessels, lymph, and nerve tissues. Repair of cartilage injury is mainly achieved by stimulating chondrocyte proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis. Cartilage homeostasis involves the regulation of multiple growth factors and the transduction of cellular signals. It is a very complicated process that has not been elucidated in detail. In this review, we summarized a variety of signaling molecules related to chondrocytes function. Especially, we described the correlation between chondrocyte-specific regulatory factors and cell signaling molecules. It has potential significance for guiding the treatment of cartilage injury.
PERK Signaling Controls Myoblast Differentiation by Regulating MicroRNA Networks
Authors: Tan Ye-Ya , Zhang Yin , Li Bin , Ou Yang-Wen , Xie Shu-Juan , Chen Pei-Pei , Mei Shi-Qiang , Huang Qiao-Juan , Zheng Ling-Ling , Qu Liang-Hu
Published: May 2021

The unfolded protein response (UPR) plays important roles in various cells that have a high demand for protein folding, which are involved in the process of cell differentiation and development. Here, we separately knocked down the three sensors of the UPR in myoblasts and found that PERK knockdown led to a marked transformation in myoblasts from a fusiform to a rounded morphology, which suggests that PERK is required for early myoblast differentiation. Interestingly, knocking down PERK induced reprogramming of C2C12 myoblasts into stem-like cells by altering the miRNA networks associated with differentiation and stemness maintenance, and the PERK-ATF4 signaling pathway transactivated muscle differentiation-associated miRNAs in the early stage of myoblast differentiation. Furthermore, we identified Ppp1cc as a direct target gene of miR-128 regulated by the PERK signaling pathway and showed that its repression is critical for a feedback loop that regulates the activity of UPR-associated signaling pathways, leading to cell migration, cell fusion, endoplasmic reticulum expansion, and myotube formation during myoblast differentiation. Subsequently, we found that the RNA-binding protein ARPP21, encoded by the host gene of miR-128-2, antagonized miR-128 activity by competing with it to bind to the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of Ppp1cc to maintain the balance of the differentiation state. Together, these results reveal the crucial role of PERK signaling in myoblast maintenance and differentiation and identify the mechanism underlying the role of UPR signaling as a major regulator of miRNA networks during early differentiation of myoblasts.
Acid-Induced Inflammatory Cytokines in Osteoblasts: A Guided Path to Osteolysis in Bone Metastasis
Authors: Di Pompo Gemma , Errani Costantino , Gillies Robert , Mercatali Laura , Ibrahim Toni , Tamanti Jacopo , Baldini Nicola , Avnet Sofia
Published: May 2021

Bone metastasis (BM) is a dismal complication of cancer that frequently occurs in patients with advanced carcinomas and that often manifests as an osteolytic lesion. In bone, tumor cells promote an imbalance in bone remodeling via the release of growth factors that, directly or indirectly, stimulate osteoclast resorption activity. However, carcinoma cells are also characterized by an altered metabolism responsible for a decrease of extracellular pH, which, in turn, directly intensifies osteoclast bone erosion. Here, we speculated that tumor-derived acidosis causes the osteoblast–osteoclast uncoupling in BM by modulating the pro-osteoclastogenic phenotype of osteoblasts. According to our results, a low pH recruits osteoclast precursors and promotes their differentiation through the secretome of acid-stressed osteoblasts that includes pro-osteoclastogenic factors and inflammatory mediators, such as RANKL, M-CSF, TNF, IL-6, and, above the others, IL-8. The treatment with the anti-IL-6R antibody tocilizumab or with an anti-IL-8 antibody reverted this effect. Finally, in a series of BM patients, circulating levels of the osteolytic marker TRACP5b significantly correlated with IL-8. Our findings brought out that tumor-derived acidosis promotes excessive osteolysis at least in part by inducing an inflammatory phenotype in osteoblasts, and these results strengthen the use of anti-IL-6 or anti-IL-8 strategies to treat osteolysis in BM.
Humidity-Insensitive NO2 Sensors Based on SnO2/rGO Composites
Authors: Wang Yingyi , Liu Lin , Sun Fuqin , Li Tie , Zhang Ting , Qin Sujie
Published: May 2021

This study reported a novel humidity-insensitive nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gas sensor based on tin dioxide (SnO2)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composites through the sol-gel method. The sensor demonstrated ppb-level NO2 detection in p-type sensing behaviors (13.6% response to 750 ppb). Because of the synergistic effect on SnO2/rGO p-n heterojunction, the sensing performance was greatly enhanced compared to that of bare rGO. The limit of detection of sensors was as low as 6.7 ppb under dry air. Moreover, benefited from the formed superhydrophobic structure of the SnO2/rGO composites (contact angle: 149.0°), the humidity showed a negligible influence on the dynamic response (Sg) of the sensor to different concentration of NO2 when increasing the relative humidity (RH) from 0 to 70% at 116°C. The relative conductivity of the sensor to 83% relative humidity was 0.11%. In addition, the response ratio (Sg/SRH) between 750 ppb NO2 and 83% RH was 649.0, indicating the negligible impaction of high-level ambient humidity on the sensor. The as-fabricated humidity-insensitive gas sensor can promise NO2 detection in real-world applications such as safety alarm, chemical engineering, and so on.
Association Between Hemoglobin Glycation Index and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and All Cause Mortality in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Jian-di , Liang Dong-liang , Xie Yue , Chen Mei-yu , Chen Hai-hong , Sun Dan , Hu Hui-qi
Published: May 2021

Background: The hemoglobin glycation index (HGI) has been proposed as a marker to quantify inter-individual variation in hemoglobin glycosylation. However, whether HGI is associated with an increased risk of diabetic complications independent of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the association between HGI and the risk of all cause mortality and composite cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods: PubMed, and EMBASE databases were searched for related studies up to March 31, 2021. Observational studies reported associations between HGI levels and composite CVD and all cause mortality were included for meta-analysis. A random effect model was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for higher HGI.

Results: A total of five studies, comprising 22,035 patients with type two diabetes mellitus were included for analysis. The median follow-up duration was 5.0 years. After adjusted for multiple conventional cardiovascular risk factors, an increased level of HGI was associated with a higher risk of composite CVD (per 1 SD increment: HR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.04–1.26) and all cause mortality (per 1 SD increment: HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.05–1.32). However, when further adjusted for HbA1c, the association between HGI and risk of composite CVD (per 1 SD increment of HGI: HR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.93–1.10) and all cause mortality (per 1 SD increment of HGI: HR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.96–1.10) became insignificant.

Conclusions: High HGI was associated with an increased risk of composite CVD and all cause mortality after adjustment for multiple conventional cardiovascular risk factors. However, the association was mainly mediating by the level of HbA1c.
Impact of the Southern Ecuadorian Andes on Oxygen and Hydrogen Isotopes in Precipitation
Authors: Gébelin Aude , Witt Cesar , Radkiewicz Maksymilian , Mulch Andreas
Published: May 2021

Determining how the elevation of the Northern Andes has evolved over time is of paramount importance for understanding the response of the Northern Andes to deformational and geodynamic processes and its role as an orographic barrier for atmospheric vapor transport over geologic time. However, a fundamental requirement when using stable isotope data for paleoaltimetry reconstructions is knowledge about the present-day changes of δ18O and δD with elevation (isotopic lapse rate). This study defines the present-day river isotopic lapse rate near the Equator (∼3°S) based on analysis of δ18O and δD of surface waters collected from streams across the Western Cordillera and the Inter-Andean depression in Southern Ecuador. The results for the two domains show a decrease of δ18O with elevation which fits a linear regression with a slope of −0.18‰/100 m (R2= 0.73,n= 83). However, we establish a present-day lapse rate of −0.15‰/100 m for δ18O (R2= 0.88,n= 19) and -1.4‰/100 m for δD (R2= 0.93,n= 19) from water samples collected along the west facing slopes of the Western Ecuadorian Cordillera which is mainly subject to moisture transport from the Pacific. We argue that this empirical relationship, consistent with those obtained in different tropical areas of the world, can inform stable isotope paleoaltimetry reconstructions in tropical latitudes.
Joint Seismic and Gravity Data Inversion to Image Intra-Crustal Structures: The Ivrea Geophysical Body Along the Val Sesia Profile (Piedmont, Italy)
Authors: Scarponi Matteo , Hetényi György , Plomerová Jaroslava , Solarino Stefano , Baron Ludovic , Petri Benoît
Published: May 2021

We present results from a joint inversion of new seismic and recently compiled gravity data to constrain the structure of a prominent geophysical anomaly in the European Alps: the Ivrea Geophysical Body (IGB). We investigate the IGB structure along the West-East oriented Val Sesia profile at higher resolution than previous studies. We deployed 10 broadband seismic stations at 5 km spacing for 27 months, producing a new database of ∼1000 high-quality seismic receiver functions (RFs). The compiled gravity data yields 1 gravity point every 1–2 km along the profile. We set up an inversion scheme, in which RFs and gravity anomalies jointly constrain the shape and the physical properties of the IGB. We model the IGB’s top surface as a single density and shear-wave velocity discontinuity, whose geometry is defined by four, spatially variable nodes between far-field constraints. An iterative algorithm was implemented to efficiently explore the model space, directing the search toward better fitting areas. For each new candidate model, we use the velocity-model structures for both ray-tracing and observed-RFs migration, and for computation and migration of synthetic RFs: the two migrated images are then compared via cross-correlation. Similarly, forward gravity modeling for a 2D density distribution is implemented. The joint inversion performance is the product of the seismic and gravity misfits. The inversion results show the IGB protruding at shallow depths with a horizontal width of ∼30 km in the western part of the profile. Its shallowest segment reaches either 3–7 or 1–3 km depth below sea-level. The latter location fits better the outcropping lower crustal rocks at the western edge of the Ivrea-Verbano Zone. A prominent, steep eastward-deepening feature near the middle of the profile, coincident with the Pogallo Fault Zone, is interpreted as inherited crustal thickness variation. The found density and velocity contrasts of the IGB agree with physical properties of the main rock units observed in the field. Finally, by frequency-dependent analysis of RFs, we constrain the sharpness of the shallowest portion of the IGB velocity discontinuity as a vertical gradient of thickness between 0.8 km and 0.4 km.
A Synthesized Study of the Spatiotemporal Evolution of Central Yellow Sea Mud Depositional Processes During the Holocene
Authors: Zhong Fuchang , Xiang Rong , Zhang Lanlan , Yang Yiping , Zhao Meixun , Zhou Liping
Published: May 2021

The spatial distribution patterns of central Yellow Sea Mud (CYSM) thicknesses and their temporal evolution during the Holocene are here updated using data from 10 new cores, in combination with the previously-published data for 64 cores from this area. Of these 74 cores, 15 exhibit clear AMS 14C dating constraints. Three subareas of mud deposition can be delineated using analyses of spatiotemporal mud thickness distributions and the variations between these. A depocenter subarea, with mud thicknesses >4 m, lies in the northwestern part of the CYSM; the mean sedimentation rate (SR) is relatively high in this subarea, with two high SR stages occurring at ∼6.1–5.4 ka and ∼4–2.5 ka. An adjacent subarea surrounds the depocenter subarea; this subarea has mud thicknesses between 2 and 4 m, and a high mid-Holocene SR which evinces a gradually decreasing trend after 5 ka. A distal periphery subarea lies in the eastern part of the CYSM, with mud thicknesses between 0.5 and −2 m, and a low mean SR that has been generally stable over the last 7 ka. Our results indicate that both sedimentary sources and hydrological dynamics played important roles in the formation of CYSM. The Yellow River may be the principal sedimentary source for CYSM, as mud thickness decreases gradually from northwest to southeast. Different mud subareas appear to be affected by different hydrological dynamics: in the depocenter subarea, oceanic current fronts seem to play an important role in mud deposition, while in the adjacent subarea and the distal periphery subarea, weak tidal currents appear to be the dominant depositional control. The generally decreasing trend in the SR of the adjacent subarea indicate that the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) potentially controlled changes in CYSM sedimentary sources after 7 ka.
Catalytic Conversion of Starch to 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural by Tin Phosphotungstate
Authors: Hao Jiawen , Song Xueping , Jia Shaowu , Mao Wei , Yan Yuxiao , Zhou Jinghong
Published: May 2021

Heteropoly acids containing Brønsted and Lewis acids show excellent catalytic activity. Brønsted acids promote the depolymerization of polysaccharides (such as starch and cellulose) into glucose, while Lewis acids catalyze the conversion of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). Designing stable Brønsted-Lewis acid-containing bifunctional heterogeneous catalysts is crucial for the efficient catalytic conversion of polysaccharides to HMF. In this study, a series of Brønsted -Lewis acid bifunctional catalysts (SnxPW, X = 0.10–0.75) were investigated for the conversion of cassava starch to HMF. The structure of the catalysts was characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Pyridine Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The acid strength and acid capacity were also investigated. The effects of reaction time, temperature, catalyst concentration, and cassava starch concentration on the selectivity, conversion rate, and yield were examined. The results showed that, among the analyzed catalysts, Sn0.1PW presented the best ability under the test conditions for catalyzing the conversion of starch to HMF. At the optimized conditions of a reaction temperature of 160°C, a catalyst dosage of 0.50 mmol/gstarch, and a 1 h reaction time, the starch conversion rate was 90.61%, and the selectivity and yield of HMF were 59.77 and 54.12%, respectively. Our findings contribute to the development of HMF production by the dehydration of carbohydrates.
Estimating the Cooling Effect of Pocket Green Space in High Density Urban Areas in Shanghai, China
Authors: Wu Caiyan , Li Junxiang , Wang Chunfang , Song Conghe , Haase Dagmar , Breuste Jürgen , Finka Maroš
Published: May 2021

Recently, pocket green spaces (PGS), i.e., small green spaces, have attracted growing attention for their various ecological and social services. As a crucial part of urban green spaces in high-density urban areas, PGS facilitates recreation and relaxation for neighborhoods and thus improves the livability of cities at the local scale. However, whether and how the PGS cools the urban heat island effect is still unclear. This research was performed in the highly developed areas of the city of Shanghai during hot summer daytime. We applied a set of cooling effect indicators to estimate the cooling extent, cooling intensity, and cooling efficiency of PGS. We further examined whether and how landscape features within and surrounding the PGS influence its cooling effects. The results showed that 90% of PGS are cooler than their surroundings. Among the landscape features, the land surface temperature of PGS logarithmically decreased with its area, and the maximum local cool island intensity and maximum cooling area logarithmically increased with the area of PGS. The vegetation types and their composition within the PGS also influenced their surface temperature and the cooling effect. The PGS dominated by tree-shrub-grass showed the highest cooling efficiency. The surrounding landscape patterns, especially the patch density and the landscape shape index, influence the cooling effect of PGS at both class and landscape levels. These findings add new knowledge on factors influencing the cooling effect of PGS, and provide the biophysical theoretical basis for developing nature-based cooling strategies for urban landscape designers and planners.
Source-Specific Patterns of Marine Debris and Associated Ecological Impacts in the Red River Estuary of Xuan Thuy National Park, Vietnam
Authors: Giles Rachel K. , Nguyen Cindy Anh Thu , Hồ Thu Thi Yến , Nguyến Công Văn , Ngô Ngoc Thi , Rochman Chelsea M.
Published: May 2021

Vietnamese rivers are among the top ten contributors of anthropogenic debris to the ocean. However, there is limited empirical research documenting debris and its effects in Northern Vietnam. The goal of our research was to conduct the first baseline assessment of anthropogenic debris in the Red River. We aimed to understand the sources, accumulation patterns, and ecological effects of anthropogenic debris in the Red River (Song Hong) estuary. To assess debris patterns, we conducted standing stock debris surveys at sites in the mouth, and upstream of the Red River. To assess the ecological effects of anthropogenic debris on mangrove ecosystems, we measured mangrove diameter, canopy cover, and number of crab burrows/m2 in the same debris transects. Anthropogenic debris was found at all sites, and plastic was the most common material. We identified a non-significant trend, whereby ecological indices declined with increasing amounts of debris. Overall, our results demonstrate that anthropogenic debris is ubiquitous in the Red River estuary, composition varies among sites, and this debris may have adverse or neutral ecological effects on mangrove ecosystem health. Future work should conduct debris assessments at larger spatial scales, and assess ecological responses at the community or population level over extended time periods.
Unearthing the Potential of Soil eDNA Metabarcoding—Towards Best Practice Advice for Invertebrate Biodiversity Assessment
Authors: Kirse Ameli , Bourlat Sarah J. , Langen Kathrin , Fonseca Vera G.
Published: May 2021

Metabarcoding has proven to be a powerful tool to assess ecological patterns and diversity from different habitats. Terrestrial invertebrate diversity is frequently based on bulk samples, which require comparatively high sampling effort. With environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, field sampling effort can be reduced while increasing the number of recovered organism groups. However, a proof of concept is missing for several invertebrate groups, hampering the development of best-practice advice for these groups. This study aims to provide recommendations on key aspects for the processing of soil samples, from sampling effort to choice of DNA extraction method and marker genes. This study uses eDNA metabarcoding as a tool for assessing invertebrate biodiversity in soil samples, specifically comparing two DNA extraction methods (with and without a lysis step) and two genes, 18S and COI markers. The results show that the choice of marker and DNA extraction method (including a lysis step) significantly affect species detection rates and concomitantly observed invertebrate community composition. Combining methods, by using larger amounts of starting material and including a lysis step resulted in an increase of invertebrate species numbers. Together, these methods improved the detection of species with known lower population densities and allowed the assessment of temporary mesofauna. Furthermore, the choice of marker significantly influenced the diversity levels found. The 18S marker allowed the detection of a higher number of annelid and nematode OTUs, while the COI marker was more suitable for detecting changes in arthropod community structure, especially at the species level. This study makes significant advances to the field of invertebrate biodiversity assessment, particularly using metabarcoding tools by addressing several methodological considerations that are key for accurate ecological appraisals.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Kernel Traits in Aegilops tauschii
Authors: Wang Qing , Yan Ning , Chen Hao , Li Sirui , Hu Haiyan , Lin Yu , Shi Haoran , Zhou Kunyu , Jiang Xiaojun , Yu Shifan , Li Caixia , Chen Guangdeng , Yang Zisong , Liu Yaxi
Published: May 2021

Aegilops tauschii is the diploid progenitor of the D subgenome of hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Here, the phenotypic data of kernel length (KL), kernel width (KW), kernel volume (KV), kernel surface area (KSA), kernel width to length ratio (KWL), and hundred-kernel weight (HKW) for 223 A. tauschii accessions were gathered across three continuous years. Based on population structure analysis, 223 A. tauschii were divided into two subpopulations, namely T-group (mainly included A. tauschii ssp. tauschii accessions) and S-group (mainly included A. tauschii ssp. strangulata). Classifications based on cluster analysis were highly consistent with the population structure results. Meanwhile, the extent of linkage disequilibrium decay distance (r2 = 0.5) was about 110 kb and 290 kb for T-group and S-group, respectively. Furthermore, a genome-wide association analysis was performed on these kernel traits using 6,723 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Sixty-six significant markers, distributed on all seven chromosomes, were identified using a mixed linear model explaining 4.82–13.36% of the phenotypic variations. Among them, 15, 28, 22, 14, 21, and 13 SNPs were identified for KL, KW, KV, KSA, KWL, and HKW, respectively. Moreover, six candidate genes that may control kernel traits were identified (AET2Gv20774800, AET4Gv20799000, AET5Gv20005900, AET5Gv20084100, AET7Gv20644900, and AET5Gv21111700). The transfer of beneficial genes from A. tauschii to wheat using marker-assisted selection will broaden the wheat D subgenome improve the efficiency of breeding.
Haplotype Shuffling and Dimorphic Transposable Elements in the Human Extended Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II Region
Authors: Kulski Jerzy K. , Suzuki Shingo , Shiina Takashi
Published: May 2021

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) on chromosome 6p21 is one of the most single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-dense regions of the human genome and a prime model for the study and understanding of conserved sequence polymorphisms and structural diversity of ancestral haplotypes/conserved extended haplotypes. This study aimed to follow up on a previous analysis of the MHC class I region by using the same set of 95 MHC haplotype sequences downloaded from a publicly available BioProject database at the National Center for Biotechnology Information to identify and characterize the polymorphic human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-class II genes, the MTCO3P1 pseudogene alleles, the indels of transposable elements as haplotypic lineage markers, and SNP-density crossover (XO) loci at haplotype junctions in DNA sequence alignments of different haplotypes across the extended class II region (∼1 Mb) from the telomeric PRRT1 gene in class III to the COL11A2 gene at the centromeric end of class II. We identified 42 haplotypic indels (20 Alu, 7 SVA, 13 LTR or MERs, and 2 indels composed of a mosaic of different transposable elements) linked to particular HLA-class II alleles. Comparative sequence analyses of 136 haplotype pairs revealed 98 unique XO sites between SNP-poor and SNP-rich genomic segments with considerable haplotype shuffling located in the proximity of putative recombination hotspots. The majority of XO sites occurred across various regions including in the vicinity of MTCO3P1 between HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DQB3, between HLA-DQB2 and HLA-DOB, between DOB and TAP2, and between HLA-DOA and HLA-DPA1, where most XOs were within a HERVK22 sequence. We also determined the genomic positions of the PRDM9-recombination suppression sequence motif ATCCATG/CATGGAT and the PRDM9 recombination activation partial binding motif CCTCCCCT/AGGGGAG in the class II region of the human reference genome (NC_ 000006) relative to published meiotic recombination positions. Both the recombination and anti-recombination PRDM9 binding motifs were widely distributed throughout the class II genomic regions with 50% or more found within repeat elements; the anti-recombination motifs were found mostly in L1 fragmented repeats. This study shows substantial haplotype shuffling between different polymorphic blocks and confirms the presence of numerous putative ancestral recombination sites across the class II region between various HLA class II genes.
Identification and Validation of Major QTLs, Epistatic Interactions, and Candidate Genes for Soybean Seed Shape and Weight Using Two Related RIL Populations
Authors: Elattar Mahmoud A. , Karikari Benjamin , Li Shuguang , Song Shiyu , Cao Yongce , Aslam Muhammed , Hina Aiman , Abou-Elwafa Salah Fatouh , Zhao Tuanjie
Published: May 2021

Understanding the genetic mechanism underlying seed size, shape, and weight is essential for enhancing soybean cultivars. High-density genetic maps of two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations, LM6 and ZM6, were evaluated across multiple environments to identify and validate M-QTLs as well as identify candidate genes behind major and stable quantitative trait loci (QTLs). A total of 239 and 43 M-QTLs were mapped by composite interval mapping (CIM) and mixed-model-based composite interval mapping (MCIM) approaches, from which 180 and 18, respectively, are novel QTLs. Twenty-two QTLs including four novel major QTLs were validated in the two RIL populations across multiple environments. Moreover, 18 QTLs showed significant AE effects, and 40 pairwise of the identified QTLs exhibited digenic epistatic effects. Thirty-four QTLs associated with seed flatness index (FI) were identified and reported here for the first time. Seven QTL clusters comprising several QTLs for seed size, shape, and weight on genomic regions of chromosomes 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 17, and 19 were identified. Gene annotations, gene ontology (GO) enrichment, and RNA-seq analyses of the genomic regions of those seven QTL clusters identified 47 candidate genes for seed-related traits. These genes are highly expressed in seed-related tissues and nodules, which might be deemed as potential candidate genes regulating the seed size, weight, and shape traits in soybean. This study provides detailed information on the genetic basis of the studied traits and candidate genes that could be efficiently implemented by soybean breeders for fine mapping and gene cloning, and for marker-assisted selection (MAS) targeted at improving these traits individually or concurrently.
MiR-3614-5p Is a Potential Novel Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Han Lin , Sun Yanjun , Lu Cansheng , Ma Chungeng , Shi Jian , Sun Dengqun
Published: May 2021

MiR-3614-5p has been found in a variety of cancers including colorectal cancer. However, the association of miR-3614-5p with colorectal cancer is still unclear. Based on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the relationship between miR-3614-5p and colorectal cancer can be proved. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare the miR-3614-5p expression in colorectal cancer tissues and under normal conditions, respectively. The logistic regression method was further employed to analyze the relationship between miR-3614-5p and clinicopathological characteristics. Also, the correlation between miR-3614-5p and survival rate was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis. Besides, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to investigate the biological functions of miR-3614-5p. The decrease of miR-3614-5p expression of colorectal cancer was significantly correlated with N stage (OR) = 0.7 for N1&N2 vs. N0), M stage (OR = 0.5 for M1 vs. M0), pathologic stage (OR = 0.7 for Stage III & Stage IV vs. Stage I & Stage II), neoplasm type (OR = 0.5 for rectum adenocarcinoma vs. colon adenocarcinoma), and lymphatic invasion (OR = 0.6 for YES vs. NO) (all p-values < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that colorectal cancer with low miR-3614-5p has a poorer prognosis than that of high miR-3614-5p (p = 0.005). According to univariate analysis, low miR-3614-5p was associated with poor overall survival (OS) [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.599; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.418-0.857; p = 0.005]. In multivariate analysis, miR-3614-5p was closely related to OS (HR = 0.630; 95% CI: 0.405-0.978, p = 0.021). GSEA showed that the high expression phenotype of miR-3614-5p differentially enriches the P53 pathway. Meanwhile, the high expression phenotype of miR-3614-5p enhanced NK T cell activation, negative T cell selection, response to interleukin 2, and response to tumor cells. MiR-3614-5p is a possible prognostic marker of low survival rate for patients with colorectal cancer. Moreover, the P53 pathway and P38MAPK pathway may be the key pathways regulated by miR-3614-5p in colorectal cancer.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Coding and Non-coding RNA Reveals a Conserved miR164–NAC–mRNA Regulatory Pathway for Disease Defense in Populus
Authors: Chen Sisi , Wu Jiadong , Zhang Yanfeng , Zhao Yiyang , Xu Weijie , Li Yue , Xie Jianbo
Published: May 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to plant defense responses by increasing the overall genetic diversity; however, their origins and functional importance in plant defense remain unclear. Here, we employed Illumina sequencing technology to assess how miRNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) populations vary in the Chinese white poplar (Populus tomentosa) during a leaf black spot fungus (Marssonina brunnea) infection. We sampled RNAs from infective leaves at conidia germinated stage [12 h post-inoculation (hpi)], infective vesicles stage (24 hpi), and intercellular infective hyphae stage (48 hpi), three essential stages associated with plant colonization and biotrophic growth in M. brunnea fungi. In total, 8,938 conserved miRNA-target gene pairs and 3,901 Populus-specific miRNA-target gene pairs were detected. The result showed that Populus-specific miRNAs (66%) were more involved in the regulation of the disease resistance genes. By contrast, conserved miRNAs (>80%) target more whole-genome duplication (WGD)-derived transcription factors (TFs). Among the 1,023 WGD-derived TF pairs, 44.9% TF pairs had only one paralog being targeted by a miRNA that could be due to either gain or loss of a miRNA binding site after the WGD. A conserved hierarchical regulatory network combining promoter analyses and hierarchical clustering approach uncovered a miR164–NAM, ATAF, and CUC (NAC) transcription factor–mRNA regulatory module that has potential in Marssonina defense responses. Furthermore, analyses of the locations of miRNA precursor sequences reveal that pseudogenes and transposon contributed a certain proportion (∼30%) of the miRNA origin. Together, these observations provide evolutionary insights into the origin and potential roles of miRNAs in plant defense and functional innovation.
Prenatal Genetic Counseling in a Chinese Pregnant Woman With Rare Thalassemia: A Case Report
Authors: Zhong Liangying , Wang Ye , Lin Wenbin , Yao Zhenrong , Zhang Jiang , Xu Hongxu , Feng Pinning , Xu Lijuan
Published: May 2021

Background: Prenatal genetic counseling can be difficult, especially when it is related to fetuses with a rare thalassemia. An intronic variant located far from obvious regulatory sequences in the HBB gene could be very difficult to evaluate as it may affect the mRNA processing or cause β-thalassemia (β-thal). In the present study, a Chinese pregnant woman with HbJ-Bangkok and a very rare change in the second intron of the HBB gene [IVS-II-806(G>C), NM_000518.4, HBB: c.316-45G>C] in combination with α+-thalassemia was reported, which can assist in prenatal genetic counseling.

Case Report: A 26-year-old pregnant woman presented at the obstetric clinic for a routine pregnancy check at 12 weeks of gestation. Red blood counts and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were consistent with clinical manifestations of anemia. Multiplex gap-polymerase chain (gap-PCR) displayed rightward deletion (–α3.7/αα). Direct DNA sequencing of the δ-globin gene showed no mutation. Sanger sequencing of the β-globin gene showed a previously undescribed condition of double heterozygosity for HbJ-Bangkok and a very rare change in the second intron of the HBB gene [IVS-II-806(G>C), NM_000518.4, HBB: c.316-45G>C] that has not been previously reported in the HbVar database. Thus, a rare combination of α+-thal and a compound heterozygosity of HbJ-Bangkok and [IVS-II-806(G>C)] with α+-thal (–α3.7/αα) was finally diagnosed. Prenatal genetic counseling was made based on the genotype and phenotype analyses.

Conclusion: This study enlarges the mutation spectrum of β-globin gene and emphasizes DNA analysis in resolving unusual patterns in Hb analysis and the importance of sharing the observed rare undefined mutations and the possible interactions with known molecular defects, which can assist in prenatal genetic counseling.
Circular RNA as an Additional Player in the Conflicts Between the Host and the Virus
Authors: Choudhary Aditi , Madbhagat Pratibha , Sreepadmanabh M. , Bhardwaj Vipin , Chande Ajit
Published: May 2021

Circular RNA (circRNA), a relatively new member of the non-coding RNA family, has spurred great interest among researchers following its discovery as a ubiquitous class within the RNA world. Rapid progress in circRNA biology has coincided with its identification in a plethora of diverse roles including regulation of gene expression and probable coding potential, as well as competing interactions with proteins and microRNAs in various pathological conditions. Emerging evidence suggests that circRNAs also function in viral infections. The deregulation of circRNAs during viral infection has prompted investigations into the possibilities of circRNA as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) that modulates response to infection. Recently, viruses have been shown to encode circRNAs with proviral functions, providing a strong impetus for focused efforts to elucidate the networks coaxed by circRNAs during infection. This review elaborates on recent insights gained on the roles of circRNAs during virus infection and immunity.
Systemic Characterization of Novel Immune Cell Phenotypes in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Liu Hong , Lin Xin-Xiu , Huang Xiao-Bo , Huang Dong-Hui , Song Su , Chen Yang-Jiao , Tang Jing , Tao Ding , Yin Zhi-Nan , Mor Gil , Liao Ai-Hua
Published: May 2021

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a disturbing disease in women, and 50% of RPL is reported to be associated with immune dysfunction. Most previous studies of RPL focused mainly on the relationship between RPL and either T cells or natural killer (NK) cells in peripheral blood and the decidua; few studies presented the systemic profiles of the peripheral immune cell subsets in RPL women. Herein, we simultaneously detected 63 immune cell phenotypes in the peripheral blood from nonpregnant women (NPW), women with a history of normal pregnancy (NP) and women with a history of RPL (RPL) by multi-parameter flow cytometry. The results demonstrated that the percentages of naïve CD4+ T cells, central memory CD4+ T cells, naïve CD8+ T cells, mature NK cells, Vδ1+ T cells and the ratio of Vδ1+ T cells/Vδ2+ T cells were significantly higher in the RPL group than those in the NPW and NP groups, whereas the percentages of terminal differentiated CD4+ T cells, effective memory CD4+ T cells, immature NK cells and Vδ2+ T cells were significantly lower in the RPL group than those in the NPW and NP groups. Interestingly, we found that peripheral T helper (TPH) cells were more abundant in the NPW group than in the NP and RPL groups. In addition, we also determined the 5th percentile lower limit and 95th percentile upper limit of the significantly changed immunological parameters based on the files of the NPW group. Taken together, this is the first study to simultaneously characterize the multiple immune cell subsets in the peripheral blood at a relatively large scale in RPL, which might provide a global readout of the immune status for clinicians to identify clinically-relevant immune disorders and guide them to make clear and individualized advice and treatment plans.