bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Greenlandic Question: An International Relations Analysis of a Post-Independence Inuit Nation
Authors: Wood Jonathan
Published: August 2021

Greenland is a sub-national jurisdiction of the Kingdom of Denmark, yet holds a special position within due to the Self-Rule Act of 2009. For decades, Greenlandic politicians have clamored for independence in various ways. This article explores through an International Relations Theory lens as to the schools and modes of IR that Greenland has used in the past in order to predict how an independent Greenland may act in the future. By exploring these theories, the paper shines light on which theories and strategies may be best for Greenlanders.
MODELLING IN SCIENCE AND EDUCATION: THE WAY TO GET THE BETTER RESULTS IN REAL THROUGH THE USE OF AN IDEALIZED UNDERSTANDING
Authors: Lakhvich Todar
Published: August 2021

The initial period of Science was almost completely empirical. Both Science itself and Science Education were based on the experiment. Then Science gained the new paradigm which was rather formal by nature and fundamental in methodological meaning. Still the tool for interconversion between the empiric and theoretical moieties seems to be the core point of the consideration and can be associated with the problem of modeling, which is one of the most important in modern Science. Earlier we postulated (Lakhvich, Kostareva, Lehankova, 2009; Lakhvich, 2010) that adequate modelling and visualization in particular is to be the core element for the modern Educational model and paradigm for Science. A great number of publications, devoting to the problem, confirm dramatically its relevance. Still the discussion in many aspects manifested the initial stage of the recognition, models mostly being discussed in terms of object recognition and computational modeling. We consider the category of modelling is more comprehensive and can be discussed in various aspects, some of them are all-pervading philosophy principle (Harnad, 1987), psychological tool for cognition (Lakhvich, Kostareva, Lehankova, 2009) and finally the model having for Science its own complex structure.
COMPARISON ON VIEWS OF NATURE OF SCIENCE BETWEEN MATH AND PHYSICS STUDENTS
Authors: Shi Wei-Zhao , Wang Jingying
Published: August 2021

University lecturers stress the importance of science and non-science students developing informed views of nature of science. However, few previous researches have conducted to explore students’ NOS views within specific majors. Consequently, this research used the questionnaire of VNOS-D (View of Nature of Science, the version D) to assess the views of nature of science between math and physics students. From the survey of 311 students, it was found that both math and physics students scored relatively lower on the subjective and social & cultural dimension than others. However, on the tentativeness dimension, the third year and the fourth year physics students showed significantly more sophisticated views than math counterparts. In addition, the differences across grade levels were found on the observation & inference dimension in both math and physics major groups. Some possible explanations were provided. The findings indicated that majors and grade levels influenced the views on some special dimensions of NOS. Key words: math and physics students, university science education, views of nature of science.
Nivel de satisfacción en el aprendizaje del idioma inglés en un entorno totalmente digital por tiempos de Covid-19
Authors: Cabezas Arévalo Leonardo Efraín
Published: August 2021

Introducción: La pandemia acarreo que las clases presenciales se desarrollen en un entorno completamente virtual lo que ha traído diferentes ventajas y desventajas para los estudiantes. Por este motivo los estudiantes tienen diferentes niveles de satisfacción en el desarrollo de sus clases. Ya que estos son indicadores que permiten el mejoramiento continuo se deben implementar cuestionarios con frecuencia para conocer el estatus de satisfacción los estudiantes. Objetivo: Identificar los niveles de satisfacción de los estudiantes de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo en clases de inglés como lengua extranjera en un entorno Online. Metodología: 124 estudiantes participaron en la encuesta de satisfacción que contaba con 9 preguntas en total. Las opciones fueron ordenadas del 1 al 5 en donde 1 correspondía a: “muy insatisfecho”, 2: “insatisfecho”, 3: “ni satisfecho ni insatisfecho”, 4: “satisfecho” y 5 “muy satisfecho”. Se empleó el software Microsoft Form para la elaboración de la encuesta y se difundió a través de la Microsoft Teams. Resultados:  En los cuestionamientos existieron preferencias en la elección de la opción 4 “satisfecho” lo que demuestra niveles altos de satisfacción en la mayoría de los estudiantes mientras que la opción 2 “insatisfecho” fue la menos escogida identificando de esta manera los bajos índices de insatisfacción del estudiante. Conclusión: Los niveles de satisfacción fueron altos para todas las interrogantes lo cual enaltece la educación virtual y se consolida como una alternativa educativa para la enseñanza y aprendizaje del idioma inglés como lengua extranjera.
Long-term Clinical Outcomes of Implantable Collamer Lens
Authors: Kim Bu Ki , Chung Young Taek
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation in myopic patients.Methods: This retrospective study included 129 eyes of 68 patients who underwent ICL implantation for correction of myopia with a 10-year follow-up.Results: Ten years after ICL implantation, the mean uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities (LogMAR) were 0.03 ± 0.13 and -0.07 ± 0.06, respectively. Ten years postoperatively, 52.7% and 84.5% of the eyes were within ± 0.5 and ± 1.0 diopters, respectively. The mean efficacy and safety indices were 0.91 ± 0.22 and 1.07 ± 0.19, respectively. There was no significant difference between mean preoperative (13.52 ± 2.88 mmHg) and postoperative (13.59 ± 3.55 mmHg) intraocular pressures. The endothelial cell density decreased from before surgery to 10 years after surgery (3,074 ± 365 cells/mm2, 2,812 ± 406 cells/mm2, respectively; mean decrease: 8.5 ± 10.8%; p = 0.011). Eight eyes (6.2%) developed cataract during follow-up, which was symptomatic in three eyes (2.3%) and treated with ICL explantation and phacoemulsification. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment occurred in one eye (0.8%) and was treated with vitrectomy.Conclusions: ICL implantation for the correction of myopia had good efficacy and safety outcomes during long-term follow-up of 10 years. However, patients should be closely monitored for complications such as cataract formation, endothelial cell loss, and retinal detachment.
Combined Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Laser Photocoagulation to Treat Retinal Arterial Macroaneurysms
Authors: Kim Tae Hoon , Kim Chang Zoo , Lee Seung Uk , Lee Sang Joon
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effects of intravitreal bevacizumab injection combined with laser photocoagulation in patients with retinal microaneurysms.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 21 eyes of 21 patients who underwent intravitreal bevacizumab injection and/or laser photocoagulation to treat retinal macroaneurysms. Eleven eyes received the combination therapy (CT) and 10 eyes monotherapy (MT) (either bevacizumab injection or laser photocoagulation). Changes in visual acuity, central macular thickness, macroaneurysm size and location, blood pressure, and the lipid level were compared between the two groups.Results: The mean patient age was 74.0 ± 10.5 years and the mean study period 7.0 ± 5.3 months. The mean macroaneurysm diameter of the CT group was 480.00 ± 292.30 μm and that of the MT group 328.75 ± 87.09 μm. The diameter was significantly larger in the CT group (p = 0.002). The initial visual acuities were 0.91 ± 0.66 and 0.88 ± 0.83 in the CT and MT groups, respectively. At the 4-month follow-up, the visual acuities were 0.33 ± 0.26 and 0.17 ± 0.29 in the CT and MT groups, respectively, and had significantly improved only in the CT group (p = 0.042). The initial central macular thicknesses were 441.82 ± 226.81 and 541.63 ± 401.97 μm in the CT and MT groups, respectively. At the 4-month follow-up, the figures were 293.60 ± 46.10 and 269.00 ± 48.34 μm in the CT and MT groups, respectively, and had significantly decreased only in the CT group (p = 0.043). Compared to the initial findings, the proportion of patients whose final visual acuities improved by more than two lines were 73% and 40%, respectively, thus significantly higher in the CT group (p < 0.001).Conclusions: Combined intravitreal bevacizumab injection and laser photocoagulation treatment of retinal macroaneurysms improve visual acuity and decrease macular thickness.
Characteristics of Patients with Accommodative Esotropia Who Need Glasses for Stable Alignment after Myopic Shift
Authors: Kim Min Woo , Lee Donghun , Kim Myung Mi
Published: August 2021

Purpose: We analyzed the characteristics of patients with refractive accommodative esotropia (RAET) who required glasses for stable alignment after a myopic shift.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients diagnosed with RAET at the initial visit, and who had developed a myopic shift in both eyes over the 5-year follow-up period. To evaluate clinical factors associated with the persistence of esotropia after myopia, the enrolled patients were divided into two groups; patients with RAET who needed glasses for stable alignment after a myopic shift (unstable group) and patients with RAET whose esotropia resolved after a myopic shift (stable group).Results: A total of 55 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up period was 13.8 ± 5.7 years (5-27 years). Spherical equivalent (SE) refractive errors at the initial visit were +3.1 ± 1.6 diopters (D) (+1.00 to +7.25 D) and -1.5 ± 0.9 D (-4.38 to -0.5 D) at the last visit. Of the 55 RAET patients, 24 were included in the unstable group and 31 were included in the stable group. No significant differences in gender, age at diagnosis, SE refractive error, or angle of esotropia with glasses were observed between the two groups. However, significantly more patients failed the Lang I test or had anisometropia over 1.5 D at the last visit, and the duration between the onset of esotropia and prescribing glasses was significantly longer in the unstable group than in the stable group.Conclusions: Glasses may be needed for stable alignment even after a myopic shift in RAET patients with long durations of misalignment, poor stereopsis, and anisometropia.
One-and-a-half Syndrome Associated with Multiple Sclerosis in a 14-year-old Girl
Authors: Lim Yeon Ju , Lee Soo Jung
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To report the case of a 14-year-old female patient with one-and-a-half syndrome subsequently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis involving the pons.Case summary: A 14-year-old girl without any underlying disease presented with difficulty focusing and mild headache for 5 days. The patient showed conjugate gaze palsy to the left, limited adduction in the left eye, and abducting nystagmus in the right eye, which indicated one-and-half syndrome. T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple punctate hyperintensities in the pontine tegmentum, bilateral cerebral white matter, and cerebellum. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed oligoclonal bands and multiple sclerosis was diagnosed. The patient was treated with intravenous steroids and beta-interferon. Seven weeks later, limitation of eyeball movement and nystagmus had resolved completely.Conclusions: At the young age of 14 years, a patient presenting with one-and-a-half syndrome was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Children with multiple sclerosis may experience severe physical and cognitive impairments, and brainstem involvement predicts an especially poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and active treatment may help to prevent poor outcomes.
Infliximab-related Optic Neuritis in a Patient with Crohn's Disease: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Park Su Hwan , Kang Min Seung , Kim Sang Yoon , Lee Ji-Eun , Kim Su Jin
Published: August 2021

Purpose: We report a case of optic neuritis related to infliximab treatment in a patient with Crohn’s disease, along with a review of the relevant literature.Case summary: A 22-year-male patient complained of blurred vision in the left eye for 2-3 weeks. His best-corrected visual acuity was 8/20 in the left eye. Relative afferent pupillary defect was detected in the left eye and the pupils were of equal size. There was no pain on ocular movement. The results of slit-lamp and fundus examinations were normal. A visual field test revealed a central to inferior visual field defect in the left eye. Orbit magnetic resonance imaging revealed perineural enhancement of the left optic nerve. He had a 5-year history of Crohn’s disease and had been treated with intravenous infliximab (600 mg every 2 weeks). A diagnosis of retrobulbar optic neuritis associated with infliximab was made. He was infused with high-dose methylprednisolone, which was changed to per oral administration. His visual acuity and visual field defect improved after 3 months.Conclusions: Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors, such as infliximab, may cause optic neuritis. Therefore, history-taking is important for differential diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
TEOLOJİK-EPİSTEMOLOJİK BİR MESELE OLARAK KARL RAHNER’DA ATEİZM VE ATEİSTLERİN KURTULUŞUNUN İMKANI SORUSU
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Sevcan
Published: August 2021

Bu çalışma, dini kapsayıcılık yaklaşımının temsilcisi olarak bilinen Karl Rahner’ın kurtuluş teorisinin tüm yönleriyle anlaşılabilmesinin, onun ateizmi ve ateistlerin kurtuluşunun imkânı sorusunu, teolojik ve felsefi bir mesele olarak ele alışının incelenmesi ile mümkün olduğu iddiasına dayanmaktadır. Bu iddiaya dayalı olarak çalışma, Rahner’ın ateizme yaklaşımını ve ateistlerin kurtuluşu konusunu teolojik, varoluşsal ve epistemolojik bir mesele olarak değerlendirmesini incelemektedir. İlk olarak, daha çok teolojik olarak nitelendirilebilecek yönüyle, Rahner’ın modern çağın çoğulcu karakterinin bir unsuru olarak değerlendirdiği ve Hıristiyanlık karşısında bir tehdit olarak nitelendirdiği, sosyal bir fenomen olarak ateizm anlayışı ele alınmaktadır. Daha sonra Rahner’ın modern çağda Hıristiyanlığın karşılaştığı tehditlerle başa çıkma yollarından biri olarak geliştirdiği ve kurtuluş teorisinin özünü teşkil eden anonim Hıristiyanlık tanımlaması ile bu tanımlamanın altında yatan felsefi arka plan ortaya koyulmaktadır. Son olarak da Rahner’ın kurtuluş teorisinin zemininde yer alan kavramları kullanarak inşa ettiği epistemolojisini insan ve Tanrı arasındaki ilişki türlerinden biri olan ateizm anlayışına, yani varoluşsal ve epistemolojik bir kategori olarak ateizm yaklaşımına uygulamasını incelemekte; onun felsefi açıdan ateizmi ele alışını ortaya koymaktadır.
A competitividade da carne bovina brasileira à luz das cinco forças de Porter: estudo de caso em um frigorífico na região noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Prochnow Darlan Ariel , Schorn Raissa Castro , Brum Argemiro Luís , Thesing Nelson José , Allebrandt Sérgio Luís , Carneiro Cleiton Jardel , Mueller Airton Adelar , Gallon Alexandra Alf
Published: August 2021

O mercado da carne bovina apresenta dados que colocam o Brasil em posição de destaque no cenário global, tanto como produtor quanto como consumidor. Deste modo, o presente estudo tem, como objetivo geral, investigar a competitividade da carne bovina brasileira, à luz do modelo das cinco forças de Porter, através do estudo em uma indústria frigorífica da região Noroeste do rio Grande do Sul. A metodologia da pesquisa conta com o estudo de caso único. Com abordagem qualitativa, a pesquisa foi operacionalizada através de entrevista semiestruturada com gestor e a respectiva análise de conteúdo, para trabalhar os elos da cadeia produtiva da carne bovina, às variações de demanda dos consumidores e as possíveis mudanças culturais e econômicas. Os achados da pesquisa apontam oscilação positiva na demanda pela carne bovina, o que retrata a força deste mercado, tanto no cenário nacional como internacional. Ainda, algumas ameaças à essa demanda são presentes, como o crescimento da cultura vegetariana.
Spontaneous multiple cutaneous mixed tumors in Japanese giant salamander Andrias japonicus
Authors: Kadekaru S , Shimoda H , Kuwabara K , Une Y
Published: August 2021

We examined 7 cutaneous mixed tumors in 2 wild-captured Japanese giant salamanders Andrias japonicus. The tumors were either already present and/or increased in size, or newly occurred during capativity. We sampled the 7 tumors from these animals and 3 verrucose protrusions from 3 unaffected animals, as controls, and examined them pathologically and virologically. The tumors (5 mm to 4 cm in size) were papillary protrusions or pendulated on the skin surface. The cut surface of the tumors was white, lobulated, partially hard, and contained mucus. All tumors presented similar histological characteristics of a hyaline structure and exhibited biphasic proliferation, with neoplastic epithelial cells partially composing the pseudo-ductal structure and staining positive for cytokeratin AE1/AE3. Vimentin 3B4-positive blast-like mesenchymal cells proliferated to fill the gaps in the epithelial components. Transition from unique mucous gland to neoplastic tissue was observed. The hyaline structure was stained blue by AZAN stain, Alcian blue-periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) double stain, and toluidine blue (TB) stain of pH 7.0, but was unstained by TB with pH values of 4.1 and 2.5. The mucus in the neoplastic tissue and in the mucous gland in verrucose protrusions was stained blue by Alcian blue-PAS double stain; TB staining at pH 7.0, 4.1, and 2.5 revealed metachromasy. No virus was detected in the tumors. The 7 tumors were diagnosed as cutaneous mixed tumors, and it was confirmed that the neoplastic cells originated from the mucous gland in the dermis. The biological behavior and pathological development of tumors should be elucidated because the tumors have the potential to negatively affect A. japonicus.
KAJIAN PENYALAHGUNAAN NARKOBA DALAM PERSPEKTIF PENDIDIKAN AGAMA KRISTEN
Authors: Boiliu Fredik Melkias , Harefa Desetina , Lidya S Dewi , Lahagu Ardianto , Sinaga Solmeriana
Published: August 2021

This article aims to discuss drug abuse in the perspective of Christian religious education. Narcotics are basically good drugs when used according to the dosage or doctor's recommendations for health. However, if someone uses it without medical indication or without a doctor's instructions because of the disease or other things recommended by the doctor, it will cause addiction / addiction and dependence popularly known as narcotics. In this case, without the indication (use) recommended by a doctor or an improper dose it will be dangerous to human health and can even cause sudden death. Bible neither directly addresses the topic of drug abuse nor mentions literal prohibition on narcotics and their use. However, it does not mean drug abuse is allowed. In Christian faith, believers must abstain from drugs because drugs can damage both physically and spiritually. In Corinthians 7: 1, it explains "purify yourselves from all things that can defile body and spirit, so that your position may be perfect in the fear of God". This means that as a Christian, he must protect and purify his body so that he does not sin. Thus, drugs can damage the body, both soul and mind, so drug use is not allowed. In this article, the author uses literature review and literature research methods, utilizing written ideas as a source of emphasis on the interpretation and analysis of the meaning of the.
“BEING UNITED WE CLOSE, BEING APART WE DIE”: COMMON COMBAT AGAINST COVID-19 IN DENSEST VILLAGE
Authors: Panjaitan Nofrida , Adianto Joko
Published: August 2021

The spread of pneumonia cases caused by a new type of Coronavirus (Novel Coronavirus) SARS Cov-2 was established by WHO called Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) on February 2020 and designated as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. However, an interesting phenomenon arises, despite the high number of COVID-19 spread in Jakarta. That is as of April 10, 2020, 50 out of 267 urban villages in Jakarta are declared free of COVID-19 (not infected with the virus) and one of them is the most populous village in Jakarta called the most densely populated urban village in Southeast Asia, namely Kalianyar in Tambora Sub District, West Jakarta.This study aims to find out how does Kalianyar combat the spread of COVID-19, recalling that considering the nature of the virus transmission, Kalianyar has high potential to be a vulnerable zone. The research was conducted through a qualitative analysis on a case study of Kalianyar aiming to examine the deep explanation and understanding of distinctive implementation and to obtain the lesson learned from the implementation of Fournier's idea seeing how the common process occurs. The common process occurring within social organization in Kalianyar shows that there are relational and reciprocal relationships resulting from each activity related to the three axes as suggested by Fournier.
AtMYB12-Expressing Transgenic Tobacco Increases Resistance to Several Phytopathogens and Aphids
Authors: Ding Xiangyu , Zhang Haimiao , Li Ming , Yin Ziyi , Chu Zhaohui , Zhao Xiangyu , Li Yang , Ding Xinhua
Published: August 2021

Phytopathogens and pests are two major factors that limit the growth of plants. The expression of a flavonoid regulator gene, AtMYB12(AT2G47460), has been reported to increase the endogenous flavonoid content of tobacco and tomato. Previous research has only focused on the regulation mechanism of v-myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (MYB) transcription factors under single stress conditions. Here, research showed that AtMYB12 was involved in regulating the resistance of tobacco to multiple biological stresses such as phytopathogens and aphid. We reported that transgenic tobacco carrying AtMYB12 was more resistant to Ralstonia solanacearum when the up-regulated expression of several defense-related markers, such as NbPR1a, NbNOA1, and NbrbohB, was activated, suggesting that the priming defense of a plant may contribute to bacterial disease resistance. The improvement of the resistance of AtMYB12-expressing transgenic tobacco is achieved by promoting the production of ROS, H2O2, and NO. AtMYB12-expressing transgenic tobacco also has resistance to fungal pathogens, such as Colletotrichum nicotianae Averna and Alternaria alternate. The enrichment of flavonols components, such as rutin, which directly inhibit the growth of C. nicotianae and A. alternate, may also contribute to the defense mediated by AtMYB12 over-expression. At the same time, the results also confirm that AtMYB12-expressing transgenic tobacco enhanced plant resistance to aphid-infested (Aphidoidea) pests. These results suggest that the AtMYB12 gene is a good candidate for pest and disease control, with limited resistance costs and enrichment in flavonols, and that AtMYB12 has a potential in the breeding of disease-resistant tobacco crops.
Unraveling the Local Relation Between Tissue Composition and Human Brain Mechanics Through Machine Learning
Authors: Linka Kevin , Reiter Nina , Würges Jasmin , Schicht Martin , Bräuer Lars , Cyron Christian J. , Paulsen Friedrich , Budday Silvia
Published: August 2021

The regional mechanical properties of brain tissue are not only key in the context of brain injury and its vulnerability towards mechanical loads, but also affect the behavior and functionality of brain cells. Due to the extremely soft nature of brain tissue, its mechanical characterization is challenging. The response to loading depends on length and time scales and is characterized by nonlinearity, compression-tension asymmetry, conditioning, and stress relaxation. In addition, the regional heterogeneity–both in mechanics and microstructure–complicates the comprehensive understanding of local tissue properties and its relation to the underlying microstructure. Here, we combine large-strain biomechanical tests with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and develop an extended type of constitutive artificial neural networks (CANNs) that can account for viscoelastic effects. We show that our viscoelastic constitutive artificial neural network is able to describe the tissue response in different brain regions and quantify the relevance of different cellular and extracellular components for time-independent (nonlinearity, compression-tension-asymmetry) and time-dependent (hysteresis, conditioning, stress relaxation) tissue mechanics, respectively. Our results suggest that the content of the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin is highly relevant for both the quasi-elastic behavior and viscoelastic effects of brain tissue. While the quasi-elastic response seems to be largely controlled by extracellular matrix proteins from the basement membrane, cellular components have a higher relevance for the viscoelastic response. Our findings advance our understanding of microstructure - mechanics relations in human brain tissue and are valuable to further advance predictive material models for finite element simulations or to design biomaterials for tissue engineering and 3D printing applications.
CircRNF111 Protects Against Insulin Resistance and Lipid Deposition via Regulating miR-143-3p/IGF2R Axis in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lin Xihua , Du Ying , Lu Weina , Gui Weiwei , Sun Shuiya , Zhu Yiyi , Wang Gangliang , Eserberg Daniel Turunen , Zheng Fenping , Zhou Jiaqiang , Wu Fang , Li Hong
Published: August 2021

Abnormal expression of circRNAs (circular RNAs), a subclass of non-coding RNAs, has been documented in numerous human diseases. Herein, we explored whether circRNAs act as ceRNAs (competing endogenous RNAs) to modulate the pathological process-insulin resistance, as well as dyslipidemia of MetS (Metabolic Syndrome). The profile of circRNAs in serume of MetS and control samples was characterized by circRNA deep sequencing. We identified circRNF111 as a key downregulated circRNA involved in MetS. The decreased expression of circRNF111 in the serum samples of MetS was directly linked to excessive insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Loss-of-function experiments showed that circRNF111 knockdown inhibited the glucose uptake and the Akt signaling pathway, meanwhile increased the deposition of triglycerides in adipogenic differentiated hADSCs (human adipose-derived stem cells). Mechanistically, circRNF111 sponged miR-143-3p and functioned via targeting miR-143-3p along with its downstream target gene IGF2R. The role along with the mechanism of circRNF111 sponging miR-143-3p in MetS was also explored in obese mice triggered by high-fat die. Therefore, our data suggest a protective role of the novel circRNA-circRNF111 in MetS progression. CircRNF111 inhibition enhances insulin resistance and lipid deposition in MetS through regulating miR-143-3p-IGF2R cascade. This provides a promising therapeutic approach for MetS.
Transcriptome Analysis in a Mouse Model of Premature Aging of Dentate Gyrus: Rescue of Alpha-Synuclein Deficit by Virus-Driven Expression or by Running Restores the Defective Neurogenesis
Authors: Micheli Laura , Creanza Teresa Maria , Ceccarelli Manuela , D’Andrea Giorgio , Giacovazzo Giacomo , Ancona Nicola , Coccurello Roberto , Scardigli Raffaella , Tirone Felice
Published: August 2021

The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and the subventricular zone are neurogenic niches where neural stem and progenitor cells replicate throughout life to generate new neurons. The Btg1 gene maintains the stem cells of the neurogenic niches in quiescence. The deletion of Btg1 leads to an early transient increase of stem/progenitor cells division, followed, however, by a decrease during adulthood of their proliferative capability, accompanied by apoptosis. Since a physiological decrease of neurogenesis occurs during aging, the Btg1 knockout mouse may represent a model of neural aging. We have previously observed that the defective neurogenesis of the Btg1 knockout model is rescued by the powerful neurogenic stimulus of physical exercise (running). To identify genes responsible for stem and progenitor cells maintenance, we sought here to find genes underlying this premature neural aging, and whose deregulated expression could be rescued by running. Through RNA sequencing we analyzed the transcriptomic profiles of the dentate gyrus isolated from Btg1 wild-type or Btg1 knockout adult (2-month-old) mice submitted to physical exercise or sedentary. In Btg1 knockout mice, 545 genes were deregulated, relative to wild-type, while 2081 genes were deregulated by running. We identified 42 genes whose expression was not only down-regulated in the dentate gyrus of Btg1 knockout, but was also counter-regulated to control levels by running in Btg1 knockout mice, vs. sedentary. Among these 42 counter-regulated genes, alpha-synuclein (Snca), Fos, Arc and Npas4 showed significantly greater differential regulation. These genes control neural proliferation, apoptosis, plasticity and memory and are involved in aging. In particular, Snca expression decreases during aging. We tested, therefore, whether an Snca-expressing lentivirus, by rescuing the defective Snca levels in the dentate gyrus of Btg1 knockout mice, could also reverse the aging phenotype, in particular the defective neurogenesis. We found that the exogenous expression of Snca reversed the Btg1 knockout-dependent decrease of stem cell proliferation as well as the increase of progenitor cell apoptosis. This indicates that Snca has a functional role in the process of neural aging observed in this model, and also suggests that Snca acts as a positive regulator of stem cell maintenance.
Current Understanding of Osteoimmunology in Certain Osteoimmune Diseases
Authors: Zhou Anqi , Wu Bingfeng , Yu Hui , Tang Yufei , Liu Jiayi , Jia Yinan , Yang Xiaoyu , Xiang Lin
Published: August 2021

The skeletal system and immune system seem to be two independent systems. However, there in fact are extensive and multiple crosstalk between them. The concept of osteoimmunology was created to describe those interdisciplinary events, but it has been constantly updated over time. In this review, we summarize the interactions between the skeletal and immune systems in the co-development of the two systems and the progress of certain typical bone abnormalities and bone regeneration on the cellular and molecular levels according to the mainstream novel study. At the end of the review, we also highlighted the possibility of extending the research scope of osteoimmunology to other systemic diseases. In conclusion, we propose that osteoimmunology is a promising perspective to uncover the mechanism of related diseases; meanwhile, a study from the point of view of osteoimmunology may also provide innovative ideas and resolutions to achieve the balance of internal homeostasis.
Triglyceride to HDL-Cholesterol Ratio and the Incident Risk of Ischemic Heart Disease Among Koreans Without Diabetes: A Longitudinal Study Using National Health Insurance Data
Authors: Park Byoungjin , Jung Dong Hyuk , Lee Hye Sun , Lee Yong Jae
Published: August 2021

Background: Early insulin resistance without diabetes can cause cardiovascular disease, which is a public health challenge. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the triglyceride to high-density lipid (HDL)-cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL-C), which could reflect insulin resistance from the beginning, on the incident risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD).

Methods: We assessed 16,455 individuals (8,426 men and 8,029 women) without diabetes in a community-dwelling Korean cohort using National Health Insurance data. Participants were classified based on the TG/HDL-C quartiles. Using multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression models, we prospectively examined the hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for IHD over 50 months after baseline enrolment.

Results: During the follow-up period, 321 (2.0%) participants developed IHD. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, the HRs of IHD for TG/HDL-C quartiles were 1.00, 1.61 (95% CI, 1.05–2.48), 1.85 (95% CI, 1.21–2.81), and 2.29 (95% CI, 1.50–3.51), respectively. Compared with men, women showed higher HRs for the risk of incident IHD in the fourth quartile [HR (95% CI) = 2.98 [1.50–5.88] and 1.80 [1.02–3.17], respectively). Compared with metabolic syndrome, TG/HDL-C had a more powerful predictive value for IHD.

Conclusions: In Koreans without diabetes, an increased TG/HDL-C precedes future IHD. Additionally, sex differences may merit serious consideration when interpreting TG/HDL-C for assessing cardiovascular risks in clinical practice.
Roles and Mechanisms of Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors in Vascular Aging
Authors: Cao Fen , Wu Kun , Zhu Yong-Zhi , Bao Zhong-Wu
Published: August 2021

Vascular aging is characterized by alterations in the constitutive properties and biological functions of the blood vessel wall. Endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are indispensability elements in the inner layer and the medial layer of the blood vessel wall, respectively. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors, as a hypoglycemic agent, play a protective role in reversing vascular aging regardless of their effects in meliorating glycemic control in humans and animal models of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through complex cellular mechanisms, including improving EC dysfunction, promoting EC proliferation and migration, alleviating EC senescence, obstructing EC apoptosis, suppressing the proliferation and migration of VSMCs, increasing circulating endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) levels, and preventing the infiltration of mononuclear macrophages. All of these showed that DPP4 inhibitors may exert a positive effect against vascular aging, thereby preventing vascular aging-related diseases. In the current review, we will summarize the cellular mechanism of DPP4 inhibitors regulating vascular aging; moreover, we also intend to compile the roles and the promising therapeutic application of DPP4 inhibitors in vascular aging-related diseases.
A Novel Maximum Power Point Tracking Strategy Based on Enhanced Real-Time Adaptive Step-Size Modified Control for Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Zhou Junfeng , Zhang Yubo , Zhang Shuxiao , Guo Yuanjun , Yang Zhile , Feng Wei , Zhang Yanhui
Published: August 2021

With the development of society, the demand for energy keeps increasing. Solar energy has received widespread concern for its renewable and environmentally friendly advantages. As one of the most efficient solar energy devices, the output power of photovoltaic (PV) cells is easily affected by the external environment. In order to solve the problem of the maximum power output of PV cells, this paper proposed a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method. Based on the online particle swarm optimization (PSO) variable step length algorithm, the pulse width modulation (PWM) control module parameters are set according to the parameters of the PV cells’ output voltage. By dynamically adjusting the output voltage step of the PV cells online, the output of the PV cells is stabilized near the maximum power point (MPP). The simulation results concluded that the method and model could accurately adjust the output voltage according to the external environment changes in real time and reduce the voltage fluctuation at the MPP, providing a new idea to solve the problem of MPPT of PV cells.
Social and Ecological Elements for a Perspective Approach to Citizen Science on the Beach
Authors: Fanini Lucia , Costa Leonardo Lopes , Zalmon Ilana Rosental , Riechers Maraja
Published: August 2021

Sandy beaches are ecotonal environments connecting land and sea, hosting exclusive resident organisms and key life stages of (often charismatic) fauna. Humans also visit sandy beaches where tourism, in particular, moves billions of people every year. However, instead of representing a connection to nature, the attitude toward visiting the beach is biased concerning its recreational use. Such “sun, sea, and sand” target and its display seem to be deeply rooted in social systems. How could scientists engage the newest generations and facilitate an exit from this loop, fostering care (including participative beach science), and ultimately sustainable sandy beach use? To tackle this question, we applied the concept of social–ecological systems to the Littoral Active Zone (LAZ). The LAZ is a unit sustaining beach functionalities, though it includes relevant features making a beach attractive to the public. Out of the analysis of the system LAZ in its social and ecological templates, we extracted elements suitable to the planning of citizen science programs. The perspective of leverage points was integrated to the needs identified in the analysis, through reconnecting–restructuring–rethinking the components of the system. Two cross-cutting approaches were marked as important to social and ecological designs and break through the dominant perception of beaches as mere piles of sand: the physical dimension (LAZ) of the beach as a unit, and the use of communication through social media, suitable to both monitoring and scientific data collection, and to data communication and hedonistic display of a day on the beach.
Protective Effect of TNFRSF11A rs7239667 G > C Gene Polymorphism on Coronary Outcome of Kawasaki Disease in Southern Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Linyuan , Lin Kun , Wang Yishuai , Yu Hongyan , Li Jinqing , Fu Lanyan , Xu Yufen , Wei Bing , Mai Hanran , Jiang Zhiyong , Che Di , Pi Lei , Gu Xiaoqiong
Published: August 2021

Background

The main symptoms of Kawasaki disease (KD) are inflammatory vasculitis characterized by fever lasting 1–2 weeks, failure to respond to antibiotic treatment, conjunctivitis, redness of the lips and mouth, strawberry tongue, and painless enlargement of the neck lymph nodes. Studies have been shown that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and TNF receptor family members are abnormally expressed in the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, also revealing that these two play a significant role in the pathogenesis of KD. The purpose of our study is to determine the relationship between TNFRSF11A rs7239667 and the pathogenesis of KD and Coronary artery lesions in KD.

Methods and Results

In this study, TNFRSF11A (rs7239667) genotyping was performed in 1396 patients with KD and 1673 healthy controls. Our results showed that G > C polymorphism of TNFRSF11A (rs7239667) was not associated with KD susceptibility. In addition, the patients with KD were divided into CAA and NCAA groups according to whether they had coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) or not, and the TNFRSF11A rs7239667 genotyping was performed in the two groups. After gender and age calibration, We found that genotype CC of TNFRSF11A may be a protective factor in KD coronary artery damage (adjusted OR = 0.69 95% CI = 0.49–0.99 P = 0.0429) and is more significant in children with KD ≤ 60 months (adjusted OR = 0.49 95% CI = 0.49–0.93 P = 0.0173).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that TNFRSF11A rs7239667 G > C polymorphism maybe play a protective gene role for the severity of KD coronary artery injury and is related to age, which has not been previously revealed.
Exploring Social Remittances and Transnational Activism Amongst Transgender Refugees
Authors: Soloaga Isabel
Published: August 2021

This paper explores how transgender refugees living in the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States leverage social remittances and transnational ties to advocate for their rights within intolerant receiving countries. Even after migration, their frequent experiences of persecution in so-called “safe” countries often necessitate a continuation of their activism. This study centers on the lived experiences of transgender refugees through a combination of case studies, interviews, and participatory photography. Focusing on three case studies, it analyzes the role of social remittances and transnational ties in the activism of transgender refugees. The results illustrate how transgender individuals build activist networks through interpersonal connections, especially within what research participants described as “chosen families” in receiving countries. Grassroots nonprofit organizations serving transgender refugees prove essential to building this collectivity formation. Such organizations act as loci of activism and allow for safe sharing of lifesaving social remittances to those still living in origin countries. In addition, new technologies, including end-to-end encrypted messaging platforms, allow for the secure one-on-one exchange of ideas and survival practices around gender identity. This sharing creates a ripple effect, leading to the creation of robust transnational networks between transgender activists worldwide. I argue that systemic oppression, racism, and transphobia in receiving countries push transgender refugees, victims of violence worldwide, into roles as activists. By investing in chosen families, participating in nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting transgender refugees, and sharing their activism worldwide through transnational networks, transgender refugee activists fight to access their fundamental human rights.
Coupled Antigen and BLIMP1 Asymmetric Division With a Large Segregation Between Daughter Cells Recapitulates the Temporal Transition From Memory B Cells to Plasma Cells and a DZ-to-LZ Ratio in the Germinal Center
Authors: Merino Tejero Elena , Lashgari Danial , García-Valiente Rodrigo , He Jiaojiao , Robert Philippe A. , Meyer-Hermann Michael , Guikema Jeroen E. J. , Hoefsloot Huub , van Kampen Antoine H. C.
Published: August 2021

Memory B cells and antibody-secreting plasma cells are generated within germinal centers during affinity maturation in which B-cell proliferation, selection, differentiation, and self-renewal play important roles. The mechanisms behind memory B cell and plasma cell differentiation in germinal centers are not well understood. However, it has been suggested that cell fate is (partially) determined by asymmetric cell division, which involves the unequal distribution of cellular components to both daughter cells. To investigate what level and/or probability of asymmetric segregation of several fate determinant molecules, such as the antigen and transcription factors (BCL6, IRF4, and BLIMP1) recapitulates the temporal switch and DZ-to-LZ ratio in the germinal center, we implemented a multiscale model that combines a core gene regulatory network for plasma cell differentiation with a model describing the cellular interactions and dynamics in the germinal center. Our simulations show that BLIMP1 driven plasma cell differentiation together with coupled asymmetric division of antigen and BLIMP1 with a large segregation between the daughter cells results in a germinal center DZ-to-LZ ratio and a temporal switch from memory B cells to plasma cells that have been observed in experiments.
Occurrence State of Carbon and Electrolyte in Anode Carbon Residue From Electrolytic Aluminum
Authors: Mao Song , Zhang Qin
Published: August 2021

Anode carbon residue is produced in the production of electrolytic aluminum. Its properties need to be studied for secondary utilization. In this paper, mineralogy of anode carbon residue from an electrolytic aluminum plant in Guizhou was studied. The anode residue chemical composition, structure, mineral composition, occurrence state of main elements, etc, was investigated. The results show that: Anode carbon residue is mainly composed of 14 minerals such as cryolite, cryolithionite, elpasolite and graphite. Among them, the opaque minerals are mainly graphite and the transparent minerals are mainly cryolite. Carbon in the form of independent mineral occurrence in graphite; fluoride in the form of independent mineral occurrence in cryolite, cryolithionite, elpasolite and fluorite; aluminum in the form of independent mineral occurrence in cryolite, cryolithionite, elpasolite, aluminium oxide and magnesium aluminate; sodium in the form of independent mineral occurrence in cryolite, cryolithionite, elpasolite. The mineralogical characteristics and occurrence state of carbon and electrolyte were studied, which provided a basis for the separation and recovery of carbon and electrolyte in anode carbon residue.
Single Cell Transcriptome Helps Better Understanding Crosstalk in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Du Chunyang , Ren Yunzhuo , Li Guixin , Yang Yan , Yan Zhe , Yao Fang
Published: August 2021

Years of research revealed that crosstalk extensively existed among kidney cells, cell factors and metabolites and played an important role in the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). In the last few years, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology provided new insight into cellular heterogeneity and genetic susceptibility regarding DKD at cell-specific level. The studies based on scRNA-seq enable a much deeper understanding of cell-specific processes such as interaction between cells. In this paper, we aim to review recent progress in single cell transcriptomic analyses of DKD, particularly highlighting on intra- or extra-glomerular cell crosstalk, cellular targets and potential therapeutic strategies for DKD.
Clinical Characteristics and the Long-Term Post-recovery Manifestations of the COVID-19 Patients—A Prospective Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mohiuddin Chowdhury Abu Taiub Mohammed , Karim Md Rezaul , Ali Md. Ahasan , Islam Jahirul , Li Yarui , He Shuixiang
Published: August 2021

Objective: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a global issue. In addition to managing acute cases, post-COVID-19 persisting symptoms/complaints and different hematological values are of great concern. These have an impact on the patient's well-being and are yet to be evaluated. Therefore, clinical and primary diagnosis based on routine laboratory findings bears high importance during the initial period of COVID-19, especially in regions with fewer diagnostic facilities.

Methods: Clinical information and associated complaints of the COVID-19 illness confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were collected directly from the patients. Regular follow-ups were obtained on the phone every 2 weeks following recovery for 20 weeks. Initial hematological and radiology findings of the hospitalized patients except for intensive care unit (ICU) and high dependency units (HDUs) and a follow-up evaluation after 4 weeks following recovery were analyzed.

Results: The post-COVID-19 persisting symptoms/complaints were found among 21.4% of symptomatic patients, which persisted for ≥20 weeks and had a significant relationship with the duration of COVID-19 illness and the existing comorbidity (p < 0.05). Post-COVID-19 primary type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM, 0.64%) and hypertension (HTN, 1.28%) and unstable DM (54.55%) and HTN (34.78%) to the pre-existing diabetic and hypertensive patients were observed. Post-recovery remarkable changes in the laboratory values included leukocytosis (16.1%), lymphocytosis (14.5%), and an increased prothrombin time (PT, 25.8%). Abnormalities in the D-dimer, serum ferritin, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels were present to an extent. Laboratory findings like chest X-ray, ESR, white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocyte count, C-reactive protein (CRP), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum ferritin, PT, D-dimer, and serum creatinine are important markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of COVID-19 illness (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Post-COVID-19 persisting symptoms and the changes in the laboratory values need to be considered with importance and as a routine clinical measure. Post-COVID-19 periodic follow-up for evaluating the patient's physical condition and the biochemical values should be scheduled with care and managed accordingly to prevent future comorbidity in patients with the post-COVID-19 syndrome.