bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and Pathogenesis of Staphylococcus Bloodstream Infections in Humans: a Review
Authors: LISOWSKA-ŁYSIAK KLAUDIA , LAUTERBACH RYSZARD , MIĘDZOBRODZKI JACEK , KOSECKA-STROJEK MAJA
Published: March 2021

Staphylococci are among the most frequent human microbiota components associated with the high level of bloodstream infection (BSI) episodes. In predisposed patients, there is a high risk of transformation of BSI episodes to sepsis. Both bacterial and host factors are crucial for the outcomes of BSI and sepsis. The highest rates of BSI episodes were reported in Africa, where these infections were up to twice as high as the European rates. However, there remains a great need to analyze African data for comprehensive quantification of staphylococcal BSI prevalence. The lowest rates of BSI exist in Australia. Asian, European, and North American data showed similar frequency values. Worldwide analysis indicated that both Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are the most frequent BSI agents. In the second group, the most prevalent species was Staphylococcus epidermidis, although CoNS were not identified at the species level in many studies. The lack of a significant worldwide decrease in BSI episodes indicates a great need to implement standardized diagnostic methods and research etiological factors using advanced genetic methods.
Radiolabeled curcumin as β amyloid imaging and tumor targeting imaging agents
Authors: Effendi Nurmaya
Published: March 2021

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. Curcumin shows potential pharmacological action against numerous disorders, including cancer, neurodegenerative, and infection diseases. Curcumin-based molecular imaging agents could be useful for early detection of Alzheimer Disease and tumor and monitor the progress of therapy. Radiolabeled curcumin and its derivatives become promising compounds as imaging agents. In this review, radiolabeled curcumin bearing radionuclides including fluorine-18, Technetium-99m, Iodine-125, and Gallium-68 are reviewed as an effort to develop curcumin-based probes not only for β amyloid imaging but also for tumor imaging.
Сектор безпеки і оборони України: розвиток стратегічного планування
Authors: Тимошенко Р. І. , Лобко М. М.
Published: March 2021

Викладені погляди на розв’язання проблеми розвитку стратегічного планування в секторі безпеки і оборони України, визначення системи стратегічного планування в секторі відповідно до його призначення, завдань і положень вітчизняного законодавства.
Розвиток військово-гуманітарної вищої освіти в Україні: від усвідомлення пріоритетності до концептуалізації
Authors: Сиротенко А. М. , Вітченко А. О. , Осьодло В. І. , Алещенко В. І.
Published: March 2021

Статтю присвячено обґрунтуванню концепції розвитку військово-гуманітарної вищої освіти в умовах реформування вищої військової школи, переходу Збройних Сил України на стандарти НАТО.
Аналіз стану порушеної проблеми засвідчив наявність суттєвих недоліків у її теоретико-технологічному розв’язанні, що знижують якість морально-психологічної підготовки курсантів і слухачів ВВНЗ, спричиняють виникнення цілої низки об’єктивних і суб’єктивних чинників, які негативно позначатимуться на ефективності управлінської діяльності майбутніх військових керівників. Таким чином, доведено нагальність концептуалізації вітчизняної військово-гуманітарної вищої освіти, необхідність визначення й розроблення провідних ідей, поглядів, підходів до гуманітаризації освітнього процесу у вищій військовій школі з урахуванням актуальних потреб і перспектив розбудови професійної української армії.
Авторами спроєктовано модель військово-гуманітарної вищої освіти, стисло охарактеризовано її концептуальний, цільовий, змістовий, технологічний і результативний компоненти, єдність і взаємозумовленість яких забезпечує набуття майбутніми військовими керівниками відповідних світоглядних, морально-ціннісних, інтелектуальних, емоційно-вольових, поведінково-праксеологічних якостей. Окрему увагу приділено умовам, що впливають на якість гуманітарної підготовки майбутніх офіцерів.
Peran Badan Layanan Umum dalam Politik Hukum Omnibus Law Cipta Kerja
Authors: Bareta Rizky Dian , Santoso Joko , Amin Faisal
Published: March 2021

Tujuan didirikannya negara Republik Indonesia adalah untuk mewujudkan kesejahteraan umum dan keadilan sosial bagi seluruh rakyat Indonesia. Salah satu misi yang dijalankan dalam pencapaian visi tersebut adalah dengan merekonstruksi peraturan perundang-undangan melalui omnibus law. Ada tiga hal yang disasar pemerintah dari omnibus law ini, yakni undang-undang perpajakan, cipta kerja, dan pemberdayaan UMKM. Dalam rangka pencapaiannya, salah satu terobosan dalam omnibus law cipta kerja ini adalah pemanfaatan Badan Layanan Umum sebagai alat dalam rangka penciptaan lapangan kerja oleh Pemerintah. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian normatif. Badan Layanan Umum merupakan satuan kerja pemerintah dengan fleksibilitas yang cukup tinggi jika dibandingkan dengan satuan kerja biasa dengan sebuah konsep badan otonom. Badan layanan umum di Indonesia dibentuk melalui sebuah peraturan perundang-undangan. Dalam pembentukan peraturan perundang-undangan dikenal landasan yuridis, landasan filosofis dan landasan sosiologis sebagai dasar pembentukannya. Secara umum, pembentukan badan layanan umum dalam rangka mendukung omnibus law cipta kerja dapat dipenuhi.
Los 21 a través de la mirada de Eladio
Authors: Loaiza Giraldo Mariana , Franco Becerra Juan David , Carvajal Araujo Lina María
Published: March 2021

El presente trabajo de investigación en curso, consiste en la recopilación de hechos históricos, anécdotas y vivencias de un grupo familiar conocido como Los veintiuno, pertenecientes a la vereda de Las Mangas, ubicada al sur de Santa Rosa de Cabal y aledaña a la ciudad de Pereira por la cuenca del río Otún. Los cuales han aportado de manera significativa a la formación de esta comunidad a través de valores y enseñanzas, elementos que son primordiales y que deberían prevalecer en el tiempo para dar cuenta de su trayectoria y ser fuente de recuerdos para ellos y generaciones venideras.Esta investigación es la primera fase del proyecto en donde gracias a la recolección de historias, vivencias, fotografías y grabaciones de la familia se llegó a la contextualización de una idea, la cual será la base del proyecto y dará paso a la creación de un libro ilustrado.
Calidad de vida en pacientes con hemodiálisis en una institución de salud en Pereira, 2020
Authors: Fiscal Bañol Laura Sofía , Palacios Botina Marlly Estefanía , Acevedo Osorio German
Published: March 2021

La calidad de vida se define como la percepción que tiene el individuo respecto a su salud y grado de funcionamiento en la realización de las actividades cotidianas. El objetivo del proyecto es establecer la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud en pacientes con hemodiálisis en una institución de salud de Pereira, Risaralda en el año 2020. El estudio es de tipo observacional, descriptivo y transversal, con una población conformada por los pacientes de una institución de salud del municipio de Pereira. Donde se aplicará una encuesta sociodemográfica y clínica, también del cuestionario SF-36 con sus dimensiones físicas y psicosociales. Se espera conocer la calidad de vida de las personas con hemodiálisis con el fin de entender los aspectos que se ven afectados en el diario vivir de las personas y fortalecer los programas de atención enfocados en el bienestar individual de los pacientes.
Everyday Justice in Pre-Confederation Canada: The Ledger of Thomas Burrowes, JP of Kingston Mills
Authors: Kaufman Amy
Published: March 2021

This essay combines close bibliographical analysis of the 1856–66 ledger of Thomas Burrowes, Justice of the Peace for Kingston Mills in what is now Ontario, with a wide-ranging discussion of what the document can reveal about its owner and about the practice of everyday justice in a small mill town in the years leading up to Canadian Confederation. It considers the effect of reading about law in manuscript versus printed form. It follows the intriguing evidence contained within the ledger to consider its possible uses by subsequent owners after Burrowes’s death, tracing the ledger in its circular journey from Kingston Mills to the Queen’s University Archives in Kingston via Detroit and Indiana.
Genetic variability and character association of Bangladeshi popular varieties of mustard (Brassica rapa L.)
Authors: Sultana Fahmida , Rahman Jamilur , Hasan Md Mahmudul
Published: March 2021

A study was conducted to estimate genetic variability, correlation and direct and indirect effects of yield attributes on seed yield of fourteen Bangladeshi varieties of Brassica rapa. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded in a number of secondary branches plant-1, a number of siliqua plant-1 and a number of seeds siliqua-1 indicating the effects of additive genes in controlling the traits. Significant and positive association with seed yield plant-1 were observed in the number of primary branches plant-1, a number of seeds siliqua-1, while a negative association was found in days to maturity. The path analysis revealed that the days to first flowering, number of secondary branches plant-1 and 1000 seed weight were the main contributors to seed yield. The results suggest that days to first flowering, number of primary and secondary branches plant-1 and 1000 seed weight may be considered for selection to improve the seed yield in B. rapa.

Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 44, No. 2, 95-107, 2020
Incidence, risk factors and Microorganisms for post caesarean Surgical Site Infection In A Tertiary Care Centre in Bangladesh
Authors: Mehzabin Shahfinaz , Elahi Mohmmad Mahbub , Bar Debashish , Sinha Banalata , Akter Tahmina , Alam Md Nur
Published: March 2021

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication following caesarean section (C-section) and mainly responsible for increased maternal morbidity and higher treatment costs. This study will determine the incidence and risk factors of surgical site infections following caesarean section in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH).

Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective observational study which was conducted among patients having post caesarean surgical site infections attending post-natal outdoor clinic of DMCH from January, 2019 to December, 2019. Data were collected in structured questionnaire. Culturebased microbiological methods were used to identify causal agents in postoperative wounds.

Results: Overall SSI rate following caesarian section was 4.44%.Patient related risk factors were inadequate antenatal check-up, emergency procedures, malnutrition (22.44%), anaemia (21.46%) associated comorbidity (59.46%), history of rupture membrane >12 hours (40.98%) and had history of prolonged labour pain >12 hours (16.10%).Surgery related risk factors were repeated per vaginal examinations by untrained birth attendant (21.95%) & duration of surgery>1 hour (62.93%). The most common organisms responsible for SSI were Staphylococcus aureus 44(21.46%) and Escherichia coli 31(15.12%). The most sensitive antibiotics were aminoglycosides, cephalosporin & cloxacillin.

Conclusion: Most of the risk factors for surgical site infection following caesarean section identified in this study can be modified through intervention. However the microorganisms detected from our patient showed a high degree of resistance for commonly prescribed antimicrobials in our set-up.

J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 28, No.2, October, 2019, Page 136-141
Effect of Donor Variables on Platelet Yield Among Donor Undergoing Plateletpheresis at Transfusion Medicine Department, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (Experience of 350 Procedures)
Authors: Karim Shanaz , Hoque Md Mazharul , Hoque Ehteshamul , Islam Kashfia , Mamun ABM Al
Published: March 2021

Background: The platelet transfusions help in prevention of bleeding related complications and thus prevents morbidity and mortality in thrombocytopenic patients. Platelet transfusion plays an important role in the treatment of haematological, oncological, surgical, and transplant patients. Platelets are transfused by two methods i) by fractionation of whole blood and ii) by platelet apheresis. Over the last decade there has been a trend towards the use of SDPs rather than pooled random donor platelets in thrombocytopenic patients. Optimization of platelet yield is an emerging issue to identify factors which may help in selecting donors to obtain higher platelet yields in shorter time and consequently better clinical outcome.

Objective: The quality of single donor platelets (SDP) in terms of yield influences the platelet recovery in the recipient. The aim was to identify the SDP donor factors that influence platelet yield.

Methods: The study was undertaken at transfusion medicine department, DMCH from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2017. The study included 350 plateletpheresis procedures. All procedures were performed according to manufacturer’s manual and standard operating procedure.

Results: During the period of study, 350 platelet pheresis donors were studied. All of the donors were male. Platelet yield showed high statistical significance with pre donation platelet count and its indices. (p=0.000). Statistical significant negative correlation was seen between pre donation Hb concentration and the platelet yield. (p =0.005). No statistical significance was seen height (p=0.933), weight (p=0.760) of donor on platelet yield.

Conclusion: Platelet recovery in the patient is influenced by the transfused dose of platelets, which in turn is dependent on the quality of the platelet product in terms of yield. Various donor factors such as pre donation platelet count and haemoglobin concentration may affect platelet yield.

J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 28, No.2, October, 2019, Page 179-183
Study of Liver Function Test in Cirrhotic Patient
Authors: Uddin Md Nasir , Jahan Nur Wa Bushra , Sultan Kamal , Nushrat Rumana , Ali Md Julfiker , Kabir Humayun , Biswas Prodip Kumar , Bhuiyan Md Elias , Murshed Khaled Mahbub , Sultana Shakera
Published: March 2021

Aim: The study was carried out to see the Serum Bilirubin, ALT, AST and Alkaline Phosphatase as liver function in liver cirrhotic patient.

Method: The study was carried out among 50 well-compensated patients of cirrhosis of liver irrespective of their age, sex, residence & income group. Patient was randomly selected while they were hospitalized in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University.

Result: Serum Bilirubin, AST, ALT and Alkaline Phosphatase level were done in 50 (fifty) cirrhotic patient out of whom 38 were male and 12 were female. Mild to severe level of serum bilirubin were documented in 50% patients. Two-fold and fourfold rise of ALT were formed in 48% and 10% cirrhotic patient respectively. Similar pattern of rise of AST also shown in 50% cirrhotic patient. Alkaline Phosphatase value was normal in 92% patient and of 08% two-fold rise of Alkaline Phosphatase Alkaline Phosphatase.

J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 28, No.2, October, 2019, Page 190-191
Avaliação do perfil epidemiológico das pacientes com Doença Trofoblástica Gestacional atendidas no Centro de Referência de Sergipe
Authors: Matos Mariana Moscoso Rêgo de , Menezes Marina de Pádua Nogueira , Rodrigues Larissa Maria Cardoso Lima , Mendonça Maria Nathália Prado Simões
Published: March 2021

Objetivo: Descrever o perfil epidemiológico das pacientes com Doença Trofoblástica Gestacional (DTG) em Sergipe. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo, colaborativo, realizado com pacientes do sexo feminino com diagnóstico de DTG através da aplicação de questionário. Foram avaliadas 86 mulheres com DTG atendidas no centro de referência em Sergipe, no Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Sergipe (HU-UFS). Resultados: Após análise dos 86 questionários incluídos, foi observado que maioria das pacientes estudadas são mulheres com idade igual ou superior a 35 anos (57,1%), a cor parda foi a de maior prevalência (77,8%) e em grande parte católicas (52,7%). Quanto ao nível de escolaridade até o 2º grau completo foi o mais comum (37,2%) mais da metade já haviam apresentado uma gestação prévia (60,5%). Em sua grande maioria possuem uma parceria (92,5 %) renda mensal familiar de até 1 salário mínimo (73,6%) e residentes do interior do estado de Sergipe (70,0%). Conclusão: O perfil traçado foi de mulheres com idade igual ou superior a 35 anos, pardas, católicas, com escolaridade até o 2º grau completo, com história prévia de gestação, com parceria presente, com renda mensal até 1 salário mínimo e que veem do interior de Sergipe para receber tratamento no Centro de Referência do Estado para DTG.
Functional Importance of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Channels in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Lee Kihwan , Jo Youn Yi , Chung Gehoon , Jung Jung Hoon , Kim Yong Ho , Park Chul-Kyu
Published: March 2021

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are transmembrane protein complexes that play important roles in the physiology and pathophysiology of both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nerve system (PNS). TRP channels function as non-selective cation channels that are activated by several chemical, mechanical, and thermal stimuli as well as by pH, osmolarity, and several endogenous or exogenous ligands, second messengers, and signaling molecules. On the pathophysiological side, these channels have been shown to play essential roles in the reproductive system, kidney, pancreas, lung, bone, intestine, as well as in neuropathic pain in both the CNS and PNS. In this context, TRP channels have been implicated in several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and epilepsy. Herein, we focus on the latest involvement of TRP channels, with a special emphasis on the recently identified functional roles of TRP channels in neurological disorders related to the disruption in calcium ion homeostasis.
SINO Syndrome Causative KIDINS220/ARMS Gene Regulates Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Zhang Kaihui , Sun Wenxing , Liu Yi , Lv Yuqiang , Hou Daisen , Lin Yan , Xu Wei , Zhao Jianyuan , Gai Zhongtao , Zhao Shimin , Yuan Yiyuan
Published: March 2021

Nonsense variants in KIDINS220/ARMS were identified as the main cause of spastic paraplegia, intellectual disability, nystagmus, and obesity (SINO) syndrome, a rare disease with birth defects in brachycephaly, neurological disorder, and obesity. The cause of neural cell dysfunction by KIDINS220/ARMS were extensively studied while the cause of obesity in SINO syndrome remains elusive. Here, we identified KIDINS220/ARMS as an adipocyte differentiation-regulating gene. A Chinese family, mother and her two sons, all showed severe symptoms of SINO syndrome. G-banding karyotyping, chromosome microarray analysis, and whole exome sequencing revealed a novel amber mutation, c.3934G>T (p. E1312X), which was close to the C-terminal region of KIDINS220/ARMS and resulted in the premature of the protein. Both the mRNA and protein levels of KIDINS220/ARMS gradually decreased during adipocyte differentiation. Knockdown of KINDINS220/ARMS could prompt adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation while overexpression of KIDINS220/ARMS decrease the rate of matured adipocytes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that KIDINS220/ARMS inhibits adipocyte maturation through sustained extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling. In conclusion, this is the first report about a vertical heredity of severe dominant pathogenic mutation of KIDINS220/ARMS, suggested that KIDINS220/ARMS played a negative role in adipocyte maturation, explained the cause of obesity in SINO syndrome and could highlight the importance of adipocyte differentiation in neuron functions.
From Clones to Buds and Branches: The Use of Lung Organoids to Model Branching Morphogenesis Ex Vivo
Authors: Vazquez-Armendariz Ana Ivonne , Herold Susanne
Published: March 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) organoid culture systems have rapidly emerged as powerful tools to study organ development and disease. The lung is a complex and highly specialized organ that comprises more than 40 cell types that offer several region-specific roles. During organogenesis, the lung goes through sequential and morphologically distinctive stages to assume its mature form, both structurally and functionally. As branching takes place, multipotent epithelial progenitors at the distal tips of the growing/bifurcating epithelial tubes progressively become lineage-restricted, giving rise to more differentiated and specialized cell types. Although many cellular and molecular mechanisms leading to branching morphogenesis have been explored, deeper understanding of biological processes governing cell-fate decisions and lung patterning is still needed. Given that these distinct processes cannot be easily analyzedin vivo, 3D culture systems have become a valuable platform to study organogenesisin vitro. This minireview focuses on the current lung organoid systems that recapitulate developmental events occurring before and during branching morphogenesis. In addition, we also discuss their limitations and future directions.
Senescent T Cell Induces Brown Adipose Tissue “Whitening” Via Secreting IFN-γ
Authors: Pan Xiao-Xi , Yao Kang-Li , Yang Yong-Feng , Ge Qian , Zhang Run , Gao Ping-Jin , Ruan Cheng-Chao , Wu Fang
Published: March 2021

Aging-associated chronic inflammation is a key contributing factor to a cluster of chronic metabolic disorders, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Immune cells particularly T cells accumulate in adipose tissue with advancing age, and there exists a cross talk between T cell and preadipocyte, contributing to age-related adipose tissue remodeling. Here, we compared the difference in morphology and function of adipose tissue between young (3-month-old) and old (18-month-old) mice and showed the phenomenon of brown adipose tissue (BAT) “whitening” in old mice. Flow cytometry analysis suggested an increased proportion of T cells in BAT of old mice comparing with the young and exhibited senescent characteristics. We take advantage of coculture system to demonstrate directly that senescent T cells inhibited brown adipocyte differentiation of preadipocytes in adipose tissue. Mechanistically, both in vitro and in vivo studies suggested that senescent T cells produced and released a higher level of IFN-γ, which plays a critical role in inhibition of preadipocyte-to-brown adipocyte differentiation. Taken together, the data indicate that senescent T cell-derived IFN-γ is a key regulator in brown adipocyte differentiation.
Developmental Accumulation of Gene Body and Transposon Non-CpG Methylation in the Zebrafish Brain
Authors: Ross Samuel E. , Hesselson Daniel , Bogdanovic Ozren
Published: March 2021

DNA methylation predominantly occurs at CG dinucleotides in vertebrate genomes; however, non-CG methylation (mCH) is also detectable in vertebrate tissues, most notably in the nervous system. In mammals it is well established that mCH is targeted to CAC trinucleotides by DNMT3A during nervous system development where it is enriched in gene bodies and associated with transcriptional repression. Nevertheless, the conservation of developmental mCH accumulation and its deposition by DNMT3A is largely unexplored and has yet to be functionally demonstrated in other vertebrates. In this study, by analyzing DNA methylomes and transcriptomes of zebrafish brains, we identified enrichment of mCH at CAC trinucleotides (mCAC) at defined transposon motifs as well as in developmentally downregulated genes associated with developmental and neural functions. We further generated and analyzed DNA methylomes and transcriptomes of developing zebrafish larvae and demonstrated that, like in mammals, mCH accumulates during post-embryonic brain development. Finally, by employing CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we unraveled a conserved role for Dnmt3a enzymes in developmental mCAC deposition. Overall, this work demonstrates the evolutionary conservation of developmental mCH dynamics and highlights the potential of zebrafish as a model to study mCH regulation and function during normal and perturbed development.
OGP46 Induces Differentiation of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells via Different Optimal Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhao Min , Wang Jiangyun , Qu Mei , Zhao Yao , Wang Haihua , Ke Yu , Liu Ying , Lei Zi-Ning , Liu Hong-Min , Hu Zhenbo , Wei Liuya , Chen Zhe-Sheng
Published: March 2021

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is characterized by blockage of cell differentiation leading to the accumulation of immature cells, which is the most prevalent form of acute leukemia in adults. It is well known that all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) are the preferred drugs for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). However, they can lead to irreversible resistance which may be responsible for clinical failure after complete remission (CR). Moreover, the differentiation therapy of ATRA-based treatment has not been effective against AML with t(8;21) translocation. Here we aimed to identify the differentiation effect of OGP46 on AML cell lines (HL-60, NB4, and Kasumi-1) and explore its possible mechanisms. We found that OGP46 has significant inhibitory activity against these cells by triggering cell differentiation with cell-cycle exit at G1/G0 and inhibited the colony-formation capacity of the AML cells. It was shown that OGP46 induced the differentiation of NB4 cells via the transcriptional misregulation in cancer signaling pathway by PML-RARα depletion, while it was attributed to the hematopoietic cell lineage and phagosome pathway in Kasumi-1 cells, which are all critical pathways in cell differentiation. These results highlight that OGP46 is an active agent not only in the APL cell line NB4 but also in AML-M2 cell lines, especially Kasumi-1 with t(8;21) translocation. Therefore, OGP46 may be a potential compound for surmounting the differentiation blockage in AML.
Bimetallic Coordination in Two-Dimensional Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheets Enables Highly Efficient Removal of Heavy Metal Lead (II)
Authors: Li Guiliang , Liu Yang , Shen Yi , Fang Qile , Liu Fu
Published: March 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as intriguing 2D materials because of their specific features of 2D morphology and designable skeletons, which have elicited great interest in environment remediation. In this work, 2D MOF nanosheets are fabricated via a mixed-solvent solvothermal method, and a regulation strategy of metal inorganic clusters on MOFs is used to construct two different 2D MOFs with monometallic and bimetallic coordination, that is, Ni-MOF and Ni/Cd-MOF. Binary metal coordination renders more crystal defects and vacancies in the framework; thus, compared to monometallic Ni-MOF, bimetallic Ni/Cd-MOF exhibits fewer layers (4∼5 layers), higher specific surface area, larger pore size, and higher surface electronegativity, which leads to its excellent adsorption removal for Pb2+, with higher adsorption rate and affinity, and superior adsorption capacity (950.61 mg/g, almost twice as high as that of monometallic Ni-MOF). Besides, the adsorption mechanism further confirmed that the carboxyl groups (−COO−) from organic linker on 2D MOFs serve as the main binding sites for Pb2+ coordination, and bimetallic Ni/Cd-MOF has more active −COO− sites for Pb2+ capture. Thus, the bimetallic Ni/Cd-MOF regulated by heterogeneous metal atoms shows promising application for highly efficient adsorption of heavy metal ions.
Carbon Dioxide Removal Policy in the Making: Assessing Developments in 9 OECD Cases
Authors: Schenuit Felix , Colvin Rebecca , Fridahl Mathias , McMullin Barry , Reisinger Andy , Sanchez Daniel L. , Smith Stephen M. , Torvanger Asbjørn , Wreford Anita , Geden Oliver
Published: March 2021

Since the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015, spurred by the 2018 IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C, net zero emission targets have emerged as a new organizing principle of climate policy. In this context, climate policymakers and stakeholders have been shifting their attention to carbon dioxide removal (CDR) as an inevitable component of net zero targets. The importance of CDR would increase further if countries and other entities set net-negative emissions targets. The scientific literature on CDR governance and policy is still rather scarce, with empirical case studies and comparisons largely missing. Based on an analytical framework that draws on the multi-level perspective of sociotechnical transitions as well as existing work on CDR governance, we gathered and assessed empirical material until early 2021 from 9 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) cases: the European Union and three of its Member States (Ireland, Germany, and Sweden), Norway, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Based on a synthesis of differences and commonalities, we propose a tripartite conceptual typology of the varieties of CDR policymaking: (1) incremental modification of existing national policy mixes, (2) early integration of CDR policy that treats emission reductions and removals as fungible, and (3) proactive CDR policy entrepreneurship with support for niche development. Although these types do not necessarily cover all dimensions relevant for CDR policy and are based on a limited set of cases, the conceptual typology might spur future comparative work as well as more fine-grained case-studies on established and emerging CDR policies.
Marine Sedimentary Carbon Stocks of the United Kingdom’s Exclusive Economic Zone
Authors: Smeaton Craig , Hunt Corallie A. , Turrell William R. , Austin William E. N.
Published: March 2021

Continental shelf sediments are recognized as long-term stores of globally significant quantities of carbon (C) and potentially provide an important, yet largely overlooked climate regulation service via the Earth’s C cycle. Current understanding of the spatial distribution of sedimentary C across continental shelves remains poor, inhibiting the targeted management and potential inclusion of these globally significant C stores into national C budgets. Further understanding of the spatial heterogeneity of continental shelf sediments and associated C provides a foundation to quantify the organic carbon (OC) stock and better understand the role that marine sediments play in regulating the global climate and the potential for CO2to be released through anthropogenic disturbance of these C stores. Utilizing a spectrum of available marine data, we have created bespoke sediment maps that quantify the surficial (top 10 cm) OC stock and highlight significant spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of sediments and their associated C content across the United Kingdom’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The surficial sediments within the UK EEZ are estimated to store 524 ± 68 Mt of organic carbon (OC) and 2,582 ± 168 Mt of inorganic carbon (IC). The spatial mapping of this C highlights well-defined OC accumulation hotspots in fjords, estuaries and coastal muds, while large accumulations of IC are found in the tidally swept areas around Orkney, Shetland and the South West of England. Within the well-defined OC hotspots, muddy sediments store the greatest quantity of OC; the muds offer potentially valuable opportunities for targeted future management and protection of sedimentary C stores within the UK EEZ. In the future, if areas of the seafloor were to be managed to include the protection of these valuable sedimentary C resources, we recommend an initial focus on hotspots of high sedimentary OC density.
An Exploratory Study Interrelating Emotion, Self-Efficacy and Multiple Intelligence of Prospective Science Teachers
Authors: Hernández-Barco Míriam , Cañada-Cañada Florentina , Corbacho-Cuello Isaac , Sánchez-Martín Jesús
Published: March 2021

This research offers a descriptive and inferential analysis of the emotions toward the teaching of science felt by 144 second-year students of a Primary Education bachelor’s degree course, identifying their learning styles in accordance with the theory of Multiple Intelligences, studying their perception of self-efficacy concerning the different scientific contents they would need to teach, and establishing correlations between these variables. The investigation is quantitative in character, carried out via a survey, using SPSS and JASP for the data analysis. The results show that these prospective teachers feel greater rejection toward Physics and Chemistry than toward Biology and Geology (they mainly express enthusiasm for the latter). It is possible to establish differences in the emotions that the prospective teachers feel toward science depending on which path they took in their pre-university studies (Arts or Sciences). There are correlations between feeling positive emotions and having greater self-efficacy in teaching those same scientific topics. Those who feel negative emotions, such as fear or rejection, toward Physics and Chemistry have lower self-efficacy. There are correlations between having greater self-efficacy when teaching science and having a predominantly logical-mathematical intelligence. There is also a relationship between having a predominantly logical-mathematical type of intelligence and feeling more positive emotions toward sciences. Predictors of emotional dimension and self-efficacy have been also explored by multiple regression.
Model Fit and Comparison in Finite Mixture Models: A Review and a Novel Approach
Authors: Grimm Kevin J. , Houpt Russell , Rodgers Danielle
Published: March 2021

One of the greatest challenges in the application of finite mixture models is model comparison. A variety of statistical fit indices exist, including information criteria, approximate likelihood ratio tests, and resampling techniques; however, none of these indices describe the amount of improvement in model fit when a latent class is added to the model. We review these model fit statistics and propose a novel approach, the likelihood increment percentage per parameter (LIPpp), targeting the relative improvement in model fit when a class is added to the model. Simulation work based on two previous simulation studies highlighted the potential for the LIPpp to identify the correct number of classes, and provide context for the magnitude of improvement in model fit. We conclude with recommendations and future research directions.
Local Climatic Factors Mediated Impacts of Large-Scale Climate Oscillations on the Growth of Vegetation Across the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Lei , Shen Miaogen , Shi Chunming , Shi Fangzhong , Jiang Nan , Yang Zhiyong , Ji Zhenming
Published: March 2021

Large-scale climate oscillations, particularly the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), have widespread influences on climate systems across the Tibetan Plateau (TP). It is understudied how the temporal changes in AMO and PDO affected growth of vegetation through modifying the local climatic factors in different areas across the TP. We used the AMO and PDO indices, gridded growing season mean temperature (TGS), cumulative precipitation (PGS), and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVIGS) data from 1982 to 2015 to investigate the temporal trends of these variables and the correlations of the TGS and PGS with each of the AMO and PDO indices as well as their correlations with the NDVIGS. The results showed that the warming of the TGS over the TP and the increases of the PGS in western, central, and northeastern areas of the TP may have been related to an increase of the AMO index and a decrease of the PDO index. Combining those relationships with the spatial patterns of the TGS-NDVIGS and PGS-NDVIGS correlations suggested that the changes of the AMO and PDO may have indirectly increased the NDVIGS in the central and northeastern areas of the TP by increasing TGS and PGS, in most parts of the southwestern TP by increasing PGS, and in the eastern and south-central regions of the TP by increasing TGS. In contrast, the decrease of the NDVIGS in some areas of the southeastern and southwestern TP may have been associated with a negative effect of warming as a result of changes in the AMO and PDO. These results highlight the indirect impacts of changes in large-scale climate oscillations on the growth of vegetation through modification of local climatic factors across the TP, and they suggest the substantial spatial heterogeneity of these impacts largely depends on the responses of vegetation to local climatic factors.
Iron Status May Not Affect Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Cai Jiahao , Chen Xiong , Wang Hongxuan , Wei Zixin , Li Mei , Rong Xiaoming , Li Xiangpen , Peng Ying
Published: March 2021

Background

Observational studies have shown an association of increased iron status with a higher risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Iron status might be a novel target for ALS prevention if a causal relationship exists. We aimed to reveal the causality between iron status and ALS incidence using a large two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for iron status were identified from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 48,972 individuals. The outcome data came from the largest ALS GWAS to date (20,806 cases; 59,804 controls). We conducted conservative analyses (using SNPs with concordant change of biomarkers of iron status) and liberal analyses (using SNPs associated with at least one of the biomarkers of iron status), with inverse variance weighted (IVW) method as the main analysis. We then performed sensitivity analyses including weighted median, MR-Egger and MR-pleiotropy residual sum and outlier, as well as leave-one-out analysis to detect pleiotropy.

Results

In the conservative analyses, we found no evidence of association between four biomarkers of iron status and ALS using IVW method with odds ratio (OR) 1.00 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90–1.11] per standard deviation (SD) increase in iron, 0.96 (95% CI: 0.77–1.21) in ferritin, 0.99 (95% CI: 0.92–1.07) in transferrin saturation, and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.93–1.16) in transferrin. Findings from liberal analyses were similar, and sensitivity analyses suggested no pleiotropy detected (all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest no causal effect between iron status and risk of ALS. Efforts to change the iron status to decrease ALS incidence might be impractical.
T Cell Subsets During Early Life and Their Implication in the Treatment of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Saghafian-Hedengren Shanie , Sverremark-Ekström Eva , Nilsson Anna
Published: March 2021

The immune system plays a major role in recognizing and eliminating malignant cells, and this has been exploited in the development of immunotherapies aimed at either activating or reactivating the anti-tumor activity of a patient's immune system. A wide range of therapeutic approaches involving T lymphocytes, such as programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PDL-1) inhibitors, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) blockers, and CD19-targeted T-cell therapy through chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells or CD19/CD3 bi-specific T-cell engagers, have been introduced to the field of oncology, leading to significant improvements in overall survival of adult cancer patients. During the past few years, the availability and approval of T-cell based immunotherapies have become a reality also for the treatment of childhood cancers. However, the distribution, ratio of regulatory to effector cells and the quality of T-cell responses early in life are distinct from those during adolescence and adulthood, raising the possibility that these differences impact the efficacy of immunotherapy. Herein we provide a brief overview of the properties of conventional T cell subsets during early life. Focusing on the most common cancer type during childhood, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), we describe how current conventional therapies used against ALL influence the T-cell compartment of small children. We describe early life T-cell responses in relation to immunotherapies engaging T-cell anticancer reactivity and present our opinion that it is not only immaturity of the adaptive immune system, but also the impact of an immunosuppressive environment that may prove disadvantageous in the setting of immunotherapies targeting pediatric cancer cells.
Immunity and Protective Efficacy of Mannose Conjugated Chitosan-Based Influenza Nanovaccine in Maternal Antibody Positive Pigs
Authors: Renu Sankar , Feliciano-Ruiz Ninoshkaly , Patil Veerupaxagouda , Schrock Jennifer , Han Yi , Ramesh Anikethana , Dhakal Santosh , Hanson Juliette , Krakowka Steven , Renukaradhya Gourapura J.
Published: March 2021

Parenteral administration of killed/inactivated swine influenza A virus (SwIAV) vaccine in weaned piglets provides variable levels of immunity due to the presence of preexisting virus specific maternal derived antibodies (MDA). To overcome the effect of MDA on SwIAV vaccine in piglets, we developed an intranasal deliverable killed SwIAV antigen (KAg) encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles called chitosan-based NPs encapsulating KAg (CS NPs-KAg) vaccine. Further, to target the candidate vaccine to dendritic cells and macrophages which express mannose receptor, we conjugated mannose to chitosan (mCS) and formulated KAg encapsulated mCS nanoparticles called mannosylated chitosan-based NPs encapsulating KAg (mCS NPs-KAg) vaccine. In MDA-positive piglets, prime-boost intranasal inoculation of mCS NPs-KAg vaccine elicited enhanced homologous (H1N2-OH10), heterologous (H1N1-OH7), and heterosubtypic (H3N2-OH4) influenza virus-specific secretory IgA (sIgA) antibody response in nasal passage compared to CS NPs-KAg vaccinates. In vaccinated upon challenged with a heterologous SwIAV H1N1, both mCS NPs-KAg and CS NPs-KAg vaccinates augmented H1N2-OH10, H1N1-OH7, and H3N2-OH4 virus-specific sIgA antibody responses in nasal swab, lung lysate, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid; and IgG antibody levels in lung lysate and BAL fluid samples. Whereas, the multivalent commercial inactivated SwIAV vaccine delivered intramuscularly increased serum IgG antibody response. In mCS NPs-KAg and CS NPs-KAg vaccinates increased H1N2-OH10 but not H1N1-OH7 and H3N2-OH4-specific serum hemagglutination inhibition titers were observed. Additionally, mCS NPs-KAg vaccine increased specific recall lymphocyte proliferation and cytokines IL-4, IL-10, and IFNγ gene expression compared to CS NPs-KAg and commercial SwIAV vaccinates in tracheobronchial lymph nodes. Consistent with the immune response both mCS NPs-KAg and CS NPs-KAg vaccinates cleared the challenge H1N1-OH7 virus load in upper and lower respiratory tract more efficiently when compared to commercial vaccine. The virus clearance was associated with reduced gross lung lesions. Overall, mCS NP-KAg vaccine intranasal immunization in MDA-positive pigs induced a robust cross-reactive immunity and offered protection against influenza virus.
Lymphatic Endothelial Cell Activation and Dendritic Cell Transmigration Is Modified by Genetic Deletion of Clever-1
Authors: Tadayon Sina , Dunkel Johannes , Takeda Akira , Eichin Dominik , Virtakoivu Reetta , Elima Kati , Jalkanen Sirpa , Hollmén Maija
Published: March 2021

Clever-1 also known as Stabilin-1 and FEEL-1 is a scavenger molecule expressed on a subpopulation of anti-inflammatory macrophages and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). However, its role in regulating dendritic cell (DC) trafficking and subsequent effects on immunity have remained unexplored. In this study, we demonstrate that DC trafficking from the skin into the draining lymph nodes is compromised in the absence of Clever-1. By adoptive transfer approaches we further show that the poor trafficking is due to the impaired entrance of DCs into afferent lymphatics. Despite this, injections of ovalbumin-loaded DCs into the footpads induced a stronger proliferative response of OT II T cells in the draining lymph nodes. This could be explained by the increased MHC II expression on DCs and a less tolerogenic phenotype of LECs in lymph nodes of Clever-1 knockout mice. Thus, although fewer DCs reach the nodes, they are more active in creating antigen-specific immune responses. This suggests that the DCs migrating to the draining lymph node within Clever-1 positive lymphatics experience immunosuppressive interactions with LECs. In conclusion, besides being a trafficking molecule on lymphatic vasculature Clever-1 is immunosuppressive towards migrating DCs and thus, regulates the magnitude of immune responses created by incoming DCs in the draining lymph nodes.
IL-12p40/IL-23p40 Blockade With Ustekinumab Decreases the Synovial Inflammatory Infiltrate Through Modulation of Multiple Signaling Pathways Including MAPK-ERK and Wnt
Authors: Fiechter Renée H. , de Jong Henriëtte M. , van Mens Leonieke J. J. , Fluri Inka A. , Tas Sander W. , Baeten Dominique L. P. , Yeremenko Nataliya G. , van de Sande Marleen G. H.
Published: March 2021

Background: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory joint disease within the spondyloarthritis spectrum. IL-12p40/IL-23p40 blockade reduces PsA disease activity, but its impact on synovial inflammation remains unclear.

Objectives: To investigate the cellular and molecular pathways affected by IL-12p40/IL-23p40 blockade with ustekinumab in the synovium of PsA patients.

Methods: Eleven PsA patients with at least one inflamed knee or ankle joint were included in a 24-week single-center open-label study and received ustekinumab 45 mg/sc according to standard care at week 0, 4, and 16. Besides clinical outcomes, synovial tissue (ST) samples were obtained by needle arthroscopy from an inflamed knee or ankle joint at baseline, week 12 and 24 and analyzed by immunohistochemistry, RNA-sequencing and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results: We obtained paired baseline and week 12, and paired baseline, week 12 and 24 ST samples from nine and six patients, respectively. Eight patients completed 24 weeks of clinical follow-up. At 12 weeks 6/11 patients met ACR20, 2/11 met ACR50 and 1/11 met ACR70 improvement criteria, at 24 weeks this was 3/8, 2/8 and 1/8 patients, respectively. Clinical and serological markers improved significantly. No serious adverse events occurred. We observed numerical decreases of all infiltrating cell subtypes at week 12, reaching statistical significance for CD68+ sublining macrophages. For some cell types this was even more pronounced at week 24, but clearly synovial inflammation was incompletely resolved. IL-17A and F, TNF, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-12p40 were not significantly downregulated in qPCR analysis of W12 total biopsies, only MMP3 and IL-23p19 were significantly decreased. RNA-seq analysis revealed 178 significantly differentially expressed genes between baseline and 12 weeks (FDR 0.1). Gene Ontology and KEGG terms enrichment analyses identified overrepresentation of biological processes as response to reactive oxygen species, chemotaxis, migration and angiogenesis as well as MAPK-ERK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways among the downregulated genes and of Wnt signaling pathway among the upregulated genes. Furthermore, ACR20 responders and non-responders differed strikingly in gene expression profiles in a post-hoc exploratory analysis.

Conclusions: Ustekinumab suppresses PsA synovial inflammation through modulation of multiple signal transduction pathways, including MAPK-ERK, Wnt and potentially PI3K-Akt signaling rather than by directly impacting the IL-17 pathway.