bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic intervention against gastro-intestinal helminth parasites of buffaloes
Authors: Rahman Md Shajedur , Hoque Md Fazlul , Rima Umma Kulsum , Rumi Nazmi Ara , Hasan Md Mahmudul
Published: June 2023

The study was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of different commercially available anthelmintic against gastrointestinal helminth parasites of buffaloes in Dinajpur district over a period of one year from July 2009 to June 2010. A total of 232 samples were randomly collected from buffaloes of which 199 (85.78%) were found to be positive with the help of “Modified Stoll’s Dilution Technique. Out of positive samples 40 Fasciolia infected buffaloes were selected for anthelmintic trial and 10 cases were selected for control. The anthelmintic efficacy of Triclabendazole and Nitroxynil were determined on the basis of faecal egg counts. The trial demonstrated  excellent efficacy of Nitroxynil (Nitronex®, Renata Ltd.)@ 1.5 ml/ 50kg body weight against fascioliasis significantly (p<0.01 & p< 0.05) reduce the EPG on day 7 , 14 and 21  post –treatment as 54.04%, 70.68% 100% respectively and Triclabendazole (Fasinex®, Novartis Ltd.)@ 12 mg/kg body weight also significantly (p<0.01 & p< 0.05) reduce the epg on day  7 , 14 , 21 and 28  post –treatment as 53.94%, 60.04%, 83.36% and 100% respectively. Out of positive samples, 40 cases were selected randomly for anthelmintic trial against nematodiasis. The anthelmintic efficacy of Thiophanate and Levamisole on faecal egg counts of nematodiasis affected buffalo were determined. The trial demonstrated the efficacy of Thiophanate (Nemafax® Rampart power Ltd.)  @ 1 gm/ 14 kg body weight against nematodiasis was significantly (p<0.01) reduces the EPG of faeces on day 7 , 14 , 21 and 28 post –treatment 52.61%, 59.28%, 72.80% and 100%respectively. The efficacy of Levamisole (Ralnex®, Novartis Ltd.) @ 7.5 mg/ kg body weight against nematodiasis was significantly (p<0.01) reduces the EPG of faeces on day 7, 14, and 21 post –treatment day 60.02%, 83.39% and 100% respectively.

Asian Australas. J. Biosci. Biotechnol. 2016, 1 (3), 448-452
Evaluation of the growth performance of fishes in industrial waste fed ponds under Rajshahi City Corporation
Authors: Hossain Md Rayhan , Hossain Md Akhter , Dey Shishir Kumer , Sultana Sayeeda , Akter Rubia
Published: June 2023

Growth performance of fishes was evaluated for a period of six months (May to October, 2007) in industrial waste fed ponds located at Rajshahi City under three different treatments of species variation namely Tl (Labeo rohita, Catla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cyprinus carpio) in non waste pond, T2 (L. rohita, C. catla, C. mrigala, H. molitrix, C. carpio, Labeo bata) in industrial waste fed pond and T3 (L. rohita, C. catla, C. mrigala, H. molitrix, C. carpio, L. bata, Oreochromis nilotica) in waste fed pond. All the treatments were replicated twice. Stocking density 14,000 individuals/ha was same for all the treatments. The average initial weight of fish was 28.9g. Treatments had no significant effect on the mean SGR and survival rate of fishes except C. carpio. Mean SGR (%, bwd-1), weight gain (g), final weight (g) and survival rate (%) varied from 1.14±0.26 (T2) to 1.67±0.44 (T1), 34.00±2.81 (T2), to 114.22±12.37 (T1), 235.75±2.59 (T3) to 752.50±4.50 (T1), 60.50±4.50 (T3) to 82.50±2.50% (T2), respectively. Total fish yield (Kg/ha) significantly (P<0.05) varied from 2234.50±24.40 (T2), to 2532.50±1.50 (T1). Mean water temperature [(27.73±0.50 (T1) to 28.09±0.53°C (T2)], dissolved oxygen [(4.45±0.18 (T3) to 6.00±0.22 mg/l (T2)], pH (7.73±0.11 (T1) to 8.32±0.15 (T3)], ammonia-nitrogen [(0.0069±0.0018 (T1) to 0.039±0.0029 mg/1 (T3)] and total alkalinity (95.09±3.22 (T1) to 160.49±18.97 mg/I (T2) significantly (P<0.05) varied under the different treatments.

Asian Australas. J. Biosci. Biotechnol. 2016, 1 (3), 492-503
Antibacterial activity of copper nanoprticles and Watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br.) extracts
Authors: Oraibi Asma G , Mohsien Rana A , Habeeb Mallic
Published: June 2023

This study was aimed to detect the antibacterial activity of N. officinale leaves water and ethanol extract alone or mixed with a specific concentrations of copper nanoparticles (800mg/L). Studied Bacterial samples consist of two gram-positive bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and two gram-negative bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes). Results showed that there was a significant increase in the mean inhibition zone at 1:1 (v/v) of  1.0mg/10ml copper nanoparticles and water leaves extract (J) and 1:1 (v/v) of  0.5mg/10ml mg/10ml  copper nanoparticles and ethanol leaves extract (F)  compared with 0.5mg/10ml leaves water extract (B) and 0.5mg/10ml leaves ethanol extract (C), but there was no significant differences obtained between the types of treatments and the standard antibiotic that used as control (250 mg/10ml Cefotaxime), the highest mean inhibition zone was recorded in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria compared with other bacterial species. The interaction revealed that the highest mean inhibition zone obtained in 1:1 (v/v) of  1.0mg/10ml copper nanoparticles and water leaves extract (J) in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and the lowest mean inhibition zone observed in 1.0mg/10ml copper nanoparticles (I) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria while mean inhibition zone significantly increased in E. coli bacteria at 1:1 (v/v) of  0.5mg/10ml mg/10ml  copper nanoparticles and ethanol leaves extract (F), 1:1 (v/v) of  1.0mg/10ml copper nanoparticles and water leaves extract (J), and 1:1 (v/v) of  1.0mg/10ml copper nanoparticles and ethanol leaves extract (K). No significant differences recorded in the mean inhibition zone of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in various treatments.
Asian Australas. J. Biosci. Biotechnol. 2016, 1 (3), 564-571
Citra Pemimpin Daerah di Media Sosial: Analisis Isi Tweet Mengenai Sutiaji di Twitter
Authors: Nuswantari Sekar Arum
Published: June 2023

This research looks at the discussion of regional leaders from the point of view of political imagery on Twitter. Twitter is one of the media used in political communication, whether for political campaigns or public discussions. This study intends to describe three things. First, to explain how the trend of opinion regarding Sutiaji's image as mayor on Twitter. Second, describe how Sutiaji's image on Twitter is based on image aspects. Third, look at the type of user account that talks about Sutiaji. Researchers analyzed tweets using qualitative content analysis methods, which were collected from June 10, 2022 to June 16, 2022. After tweets were collected, the analysis was carried out using opinion tendencies (positive, neutral, and negative) and image aspects, namely competence, leadership, integrity, and personal characteristics. As a result, Sutiaji's image tends to be neutral in discussions on Twitter. When viewed from the type of account, more negative discussions are uploaded by personal accounts. Many positive discussions came from media and government accounts. Many discussions about aspects of personal characteristics, leadership and competence.

Abstrak

Penelitian ini melihat pembahasan mengenai pemimpin daerah dari sudut pandang citra politik di Twitter. Twitter merupakan salah satu media yang digunakan dalam komunikasi politik, baik untuk kampanye politik, ataupun diskusi publik. Penelitian ini bermaksud mendeskripsikan tiga hal. Pertama, menjelaskan bagaimana kecenderungan opini mengenai citra Sutiaji sebagai walikota di Twitter. Kedua, mendeskripsikan bagaimana citra Sutiaji di Twitter berdasarkan aspek-aspek citra. Ketiga, melihat jenis akun pengguna yang membahas tentang Sutiaji. Peneliti menganalisis tweet menggunakan metode analisis isi kualitatif. Setelah tweet terkumpul, analisis dilakukan menggunakan kecenderungan opini (positif, netral, dan negatif) dan aspek-aspek citra yaitu kompetensi, kepemimpinan, integritas, dan karakteristik personal. Hasilnya, citra Sutiaji cenderung netral dalam pembahasan di Twitter. Jika dilihat dari jenis akun, pembahasan negatif lebih banyak diunggah oleh akun personal. Pembahasan positif banyak berasal dari akun media dan pemerintah. Pembahasan banyak mengenai apek karakteristik personal, kepemimpinan dan kompetensi.
Pengaruh Terpaan dan Kredibilitas Instagram @Netflixid Terhadap Pemenuhan Kebutuhan Informasi Trailer Film Bagi Followers
Authors: Hendarsih Virda Gines , Banowo Emilianshah
Published: June 2023

The study aims to determine whether there is an influence of the exposure and credibility of the Instagram account @netflixid fulfillment of information needs of film trailers for followers. The approach used is quantitative and uses the positivism paradigm. The uses and gratification theory and new media theory are theories used in this study. Questionnaires become research data collection instrument in collecting the required data. The population in this study is followers of the Instagram account @netflixid with as many as 1 million followers and a sample of 400 respondents from calculations using the Slovin formula. The results of this study are the effect of exposure and credibility on the fulfillment of information needs of film trailers for followers by 31,1% and the influence of other factors. The level of correlation between variables shows a medium level and positive relationship. This study also shows that Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted, which means that there is influence and credibility particularly and simultaneously on fulfillment of information needs of film trailers for followers.

Abstrak

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan agar mengetahui adakah terpaan dan kredibilitas akun Instagram @netflixid memengaruhi pemenuhan kebutuhan informasi trailer film bagi followers. Pendekatan pada kajian ini, yaitu pendekatan kuantitatif dan menggunakan paradigma positivisme. Teori uses and gratification dan teori new media merupakan teori yang dipergunakan pada kajian ini. Kuesioner sebagai instrumen pengambilan data penelitian dalam mengumpulkan data yang diperlukan. Populasi kajian ini merupakan followers akun Instagram @netflixid sebanyak 1 juta dengan sampel sejumlah 400 responden dari hitungan mempergunakan rumus Slovin. Hasil yang diperoleh pada kajian ini memperlihatkan terpaan dan kredibilitas memengaruhi pemenuhan kebutuhan informasi sebesar 31,1% dan sisanya dipengaruhi faktor lainnya. Tingkat korelasi antar variabel menunjukkan tingkat hubungan yang sedang dan positif. Kajian ini pun mempunyai hasil Ho tertolak, sedangkan Ha diterima yang bisa diperjelas bila terpaan dan kredibilitas secara parsial dan simultan memengaruhi pemenuhan kebutuhan informasi trailer film bagi followers.
Pengaruh Fitur Stiker Line dan Voice Call Terhadap Efektivitas Komunikasi Interpersonal
Authors: Kardia Trisnia Anchali
Published: June 2023

Individual communication has been changed by the rapid development of information technology, especially social media. This study aims to analyze the effect of LINE sticker features and voice calls on the effectiveness of interpersonal communication. This research uses a quantitative approach with associative methods. The research population is LINE users for at least 1 year. Data was collected by distributing questionnaires via google form and obtaining samples using the purposive sampling method. The study utilized the Structural Equation Model (SEM) approach with the Smart PLS version 3.2.9 application to analyze research data. The results obtained show that the LINE sticker and voice call features have a positive and significant influence on the effectiveness of interpersonal communication.

Abstrak

Komunikasi individu telah diubah oleh pesatnya perkembangan teknologi informasi, khususnya media sosial. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh fitur stiker LINE dan voice call terhadap efektivitas komunikasi interpersonal. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan metode asosiatif. Populasi penelitian merupakan pengguna LINE minimal 1 tahun. Data dikumpulkan dari penyebaran kuesioner melalui google form dan untuk mendapatkan sampel menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Penelitian memanfaatkan pendekatan Structural Equation Model (SEM) dengan aplikasi SmartPLS versi 3.2.9 untuk menganalisis data penelitian. Hasil yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa fitur stiker LINE dan voice call memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap efektifitas komunikasi interpersonal.
A Cognitive Behavioral Defense Mechanism of Plants Against Herbivory
Authors: Lokare Priya Dilip , Kumar Anil , Bhaskar Kul , Patra Kamal Kant , Agrawal Sneh , Jadhav Sangita , Patil Devidas Narhar , Khodade Hrishikesh Haribhau
Published: June 2023

Plants interactions with animals, insects, and pathogens is the need of ecosystem. Herbivory is the most critical part of food chain. In an ecosystem, the relationship between prey and predators and mutualism are inevitable breathing junctions. Plants are eaten by herbivores, but plants in return have evolved in such a way which affect herbivores and other organisms that come in contact with them at every level from basic biological interaction to genetics. In other words, plants have adapted strategies to defend themselves against herbivory.Mainly, there are two defense strategies, 1) direct defense responses and 2) indirect defense responses. The former one includes production of such enzymes which reduce the digestibility of consumed food,reallocation of resources, morphological adaptations, and the production of specialized bioactive molecules such as alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids, glucosinolates.The later one includes the production of volatiles and extrafloral nectars to attract pollinators and other microorganisms to reduce enemy pressure and for their own benefit, pollination. All these strategies are to intoxicate or repel the insect herbivores and to reduce the herbivory.
PEMERIKSAAN DAN PENYULUHAN KESEHATAN (DESA SUKARSA KECAMATAN SALAWU KABUPATEN TASIKMALAYA)
Authors: Perceka Andhika Lungguh Perceka , Wahyudin Wahyudin , Hasbi Hasbi Taobah Ramdani , Desy Desy Syswianti , Susan Susan Susyanti
Published: June 2023

Health checks and counseling to residents of Sukarasa Village, Salawu Tasikmalaya have goals and targets for lecturers to instill a sense of empathy and increase a sense of help among fellow believers. Along with increasing the incidence of various chronic diseases, this activity is carried out for screening/detecting chronic diseases and degenerative diseases as the age of local residents increases. With this health check, it is hoped that residents can find out whether the individual is suffering from a degenerative disease or not, and can improve preventive measures. In addition to health checks, community service activities also include free treatment aimed at people who are sick, both infectious and non-infectious diseases. The purpose of this activity is to treat sick residents with curative therapy and can slightly reduce the cost of patient treatment. The methodology of this activity is through health education and free health checks to villagers. From a number of 70 patients who were treated in Sukarasa Village, 37 men and 43 women were found, of which 25 had cholesterol, 15 had uric acid, 10 had sugar and 20 were normal/healthy.
Development of a character qualities test for medical students in Korea using polytomous item response theory and factor analysis: a preliminary scale development study
Authors: Hur Yera , Seo Dong Gi
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a test scale to measure the character qualities of medical students as a follow-up study on the 8 core character qualities revealed in a previous report.Methods: In total, 160 preliminary items were developed to measure 8 core character qualities. Twenty questions were assigned to each quality, and a questionnaire survey was conducted among 856 students in 5 medical schools in Korea. Using the partial credit model, polytomous item response theory analysis was carried out to analyze the goodness-of-fit, followed by exploratory factor analysis. Finally, confirmatory factor and reliability analyses were conducted with the final selected items.Results: The preliminary items for the 8 core character qualities were administered to the participants. Data from 767 students were included in the final analysis. Of the 160 preliminary items, 25 were removed by classical test theory analysis and 17 more by polytomous item response theory assessment. A total of 118 items and sub-factors were selected for exploratory factor analysis. Finally, 79 items were selected, and the validity and reliability were confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis and intra-item relevance analysis.Conclusion: The character qualities test scale developed through this study can be used to measure the character qualities corresponding to the educational goals and visions of individual medical schools in Korea. Furthermore, this measurement tool can serve as primary data for developing character qualities tools tailored to each medical school’s vision and educational goals.
A fantasia colonial no Brasil contemporâneo:
Authors: Lopes Jean , Silva Tarcisio Torres
Published: June 2023

Este trabalho analisa a atuação de seis artistas brasileiros contemporâneos cuja produção se coloca em uma perspectiva decolonial, isto é, tem como parâmetro uma visão crítica em relação ao aprisionamento político, epistêmico e cultural imposto pelo pensamento europeu. Seus trabalhos mantêm forte posição de combate às práticas neocoloniais que ecoam nas sociedades contemporâneas, consolidando uma conduta de dominação nos planos político, econômico, cultural e social. A análise dos artistas foi organizada de acordo com suas temáticas: Aline Mattos e Rosana Paulino tratam do racismo e do passado escravocrata brasileiro. Jaider Esbell e Daiara Tukano trazem a questão mitológica indígena como representação de seu universo sempre ameaçado pela presença do homem branco. Auá Mendes e Rosa Luz contemplam, em suas produções aqui analisadas, o corpo dissidente transgênero em um mundo heteronormativo. Ao mesmo tempo, o artigo traz impressões da escritora e artista Jota Mombaça registradas no livro “Não vão nos matar agora”, estabelecendo um diálogo de sua escrita sobre questões decoloniais com as obras analisadas. Com isso, buscamos ressaltar a proximidade que tem o pensamento de Jota Mombaça com a produção dos artistas selecionados cujas manifestações buscam refletir sobre temas em comum como racismo, gênero, desigualdade e ativismo.
In vitro strategies for mimicking dynamic cell–ECM reciprocity in 3D culture models
Authors: Urciuolo F. , Imparato G. , Netti P. A.
Published: June 2023

The extracellular microenvironment regulates cell decisions through the accurate presentation at the cell surface of a complex array of biochemical and biophysical signals that are mediated by the structure and composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). On the one hand, the cells actively remodel the ECM, which on the other hand affects cell functions. This cell–ECM dynamic reciprocity is central in regulating and controlling morphogenetic and histogenetic processes. Misregulation within the extracellular space can cause aberrant bidirectional interactions between cells and ECM, resulting in dysfunctional tissues and pathological states. Therefore, tissue engineering approaches, aiming at reproducing organs and tissues in vitro, should realistically recapitulate the native cell–microenvironment crosstalk that is central for the correct functionality of tissue-engineered constructs. In this review, we will describe the most updated bioengineering approaches to recapitulate the native cell microenvironment and reproduce functional tissues and organs in vitro. We have highlighted the limitations of the use of exogenous scaffolds in recapitulating the regulatory/instructive and signal repository role of the native cell microenvironment. By contrast, strategies to reproduce human tissues and organs by inducing cells to synthetize their own ECM acting as a provisional scaffold to control and guide further tissue development and maturation hold the potential to allow the engineering of fully functional histologically competent three-dimensional (3D) tissues.
Regulation of mitochondrial morphology and cristae architecture by the TLR4 pathway in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Castro-Sepulveda Mauricio , Tuñón-Suárez Mauro , Rosales-Soto Giovanni , Vargas-Foitzick Ronald , Deldicque Louise , Zbinden-Foncea Hermann
Published: June 2023

In skeletal muscle (SkM), a reduced mitochondrial elongate phenotype is associated with several metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the mechanisms contributing to this reduction in mitochondrial elongate phenotype in SkM have not been fully elucidated. It has recently been shown in a SkM cell line that toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) contributes to the regulation of mitochondrial morphology. However, this has not been investigated in human SkM. Here we found that in human SkM biopsies, TLR4 protein correlated negatively with Opa1 (pro-mitochondrial fusion protein). Moreover, the incubation of human myotubes with LPS reduced mitochondrial size and elongation and induced abnormal mitochondrial cristae, which was prevented with the co-incubation of LPS with TAK242. Finally, T2DM myotubes were found to have reduced mitochondrial elongation and mitochondrial cristae density. Mitochondrial morphology, membrane structure, and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake were restored to healthy levels in T2DM myotubes treated with TAK242. In conclusion, mitochondrial morphology and mitochondrial cristae seem to be regulated by the TLR4 pathway in human SkM. Those mitochondrial alterations might potentially contribute to insulin resistance in the SkM of patients with T2DM.
Tropical blue carbon: solutions and perspectives for valuations of carbon sequestration
Authors: Hilmi Nathalie , Benitez Carranco Maria Belen , Broussard David , Mathew Maryann , Djoundourian Salpie , Cassotta Sandra , Safa Alain , Maliki Samir , Descroix-Comanducci Florence , Allemand Denis , Berthomieu Claude , Hall-Spencer Jason M. , Ferrier-Pagès Christine
Published: June 2023

Tropical marine ecosystems provide a wide range of provisioning, regulating, supporting and cultural services to millions of people. They also largely contribute to blue carbon sequestration. Mangroves, seaweeds, and seagrass habitats are important because they store large amounts of organic carbon while fish play a fundamental role in the carbon transport to deep waters. Protecting and restoring tropical marine ecosystems is of great value to society because their decline impairs the vital services they provide, such as coastal protection and seafood supplies. In this marine policy paper, we present options for enhancing blue carbon sequestration in tropical coastal areas. In addition, we outline the economic value of four components of coastal ecosystems (mangroves, seagrass beds, seaweed forests and fish) and discuss the economic levers society can apply to ensure the end of the current gross mismanagement of tropical blue carbon ecosystems. Market-based solutions, such as carbon taxes or fines for violations that use the ‘polluter pays' principle, can be very effective in achieving national or international climate agreements. Private investment can also finance the preservation of blue carbon ecosystems. One widely known financing method for blue carbon conservation, particularly of mangroves, is the use of municipal bonds, which can be issued like traditional bonds to finance the day-to-day obligations of cities, states and counties. Non-philanthropic investments can also be used in order to protect these ecosystems, such as debt-for-nature swaps and the improved application of regulatory frameworks. Overall, the protection of tropical marine ecosystems is an ecological imperative and should also be seen as an opportunity for new revenue streams and debt reduction for countries worldwide.
Association of body mass index, metabolic health status and clinical outcomes in acute myocardial infarction patients: a national registry-based study
Authors: Sia Ching-Hui , Ko Junsuk , Zheng Huili , Ho Andrew Fu-Wah , Foo David , Foo Ling-Li , Lim Patrick Zhan-Yun , Liew Boon Wah , Chai Ping , Yeo Tiong-Cheng , Yip James W. L. , Chua Terrance , Chan Mark Yan-Yee , Tan Jack Wei Chieh , Bulluck Heerajnarain , Hausenloy Derek J.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Obesity is an important risk factor for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but the interplay between metabolic health and obesity on AMI mortality has been controversial. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the risk of short- and long-term all-cause mortality by obesity and metabolic health in AMI patients using data from a multi-ethnic national AMI registry.

Methods

A total of 73,382 AMI patients from the national Singapore Myocardial Infarction Registry (SMIR) were included. These patients were classified into four groups based on the presence or absence of metabolic diseases, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, and hypertension, and obesity: (1) metabolically-healthy-normal-weight (MHN); (2) metabolically-healthy-obese (MHO); (3) metabolically-unhealthy-normal-weight (MUN); and (4) metabolically-unhealthy-obese (MUO).

Results

MHO patients had reduced unadjusted risk of all-cause in-hospital, 30-day, 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year mortality following the initial MI event. However, after adjusting for potential confounders, the protective effect from MHO on post-AMI mortality was lost. Furthermore, there was no reduced risk of recurrent MI or stroke within 1-year from onset of AMI by the MHO status. However, the risk of 1-year mortality was higher in female and Malay AMI patients with MHO compared to MHN even after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusion

In AMI patients with or without metabolic diseases, the presence of obesity did not affect mortality. The exception to this finding were female and Malay MHO who had worse long-term AMI mortality outcomes when compared to MHN suggesting that the presence of obesity in female and Malay patients may confer worsened outcomes.
Hyperglycemia exerts disruptive effects on the secretion of TGF-β1 and its matrix ligands, decorin and biglycan, by mesenchymal sub-populations and macrophages during bone repair
Authors: Yusop Norhayati , Moseley Ryan , Waddington Rachel J.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Bone has a high capacity for repair, but for patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the associated hyperglycemia can significantly delay osteogenic processes. These patients respond poorly to fracture repair and bone grafts, leading to lengthy care plans due to arising complications. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and M2 macrophages are both major sources of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), a recognized mediator for osteogenesis and whose bioavailability and activities are further regulated by matrix small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs), decorin and biglycan. The aim of this study was to investigate how in vivo and in vitro hyperglycemic (HGly) environments can influence the levels of TGF-β1, decorin, and biglycan during bone repair, with additional consideration for how long-term glucose exposure and cell aging can also influence this process.

Results

Following bone healing within a T2DM in vivo model, histological and immunolabeling analyses of bone tissue sections confirmed delayed healing, which was associated with significantly elevated TGF-β1 levels within the bone matrices of young diabetic rats, compared with their normoglycemic (Norm) and aged counterparts. Studies continued to assess in vitro the effects of normal (5.5 mM) and high (25 mM) glucose exposure on the osteogenic differentiation of compact bone-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (CB-MSCs) at population doubling (PD)15, characterized to contain populations of lineage-committed osteoblasts, and at PD150, where transit-amplifying cells predominate. Short-term glucose exposure increased TGF-β1 and decorin secretion by committed osteoblasts but had a lesser effect on transit-amplifying cells. In contrast, the long-term exposure of CB-MSCs to high glucose was associated with decreased TGF-β1 and increased decorin secretion. Similar assessments on macrophage populations indicated high glucose inhibited TGF-β1 secretion, preventing M2 formation.

Discussion

Collectively, these findings highlight how hyperglycemia associated with T2DM can perturb TGF-β1 and decorin secretion by MSCs and macrophages, thereby potentially influencing TGF-β1 bioavailability and signaling during bone repair.
Circular structures on the seabed: differentiating between natural and anthropogenic origins—Examples from the Southwestern Baltic Sea
Authors: Díaz-Mendoza Giuliana Andrea , Krämer Knut , von Rönn Gitta Ann , Schwarzer Klaus , Heinrich Christoph , Reimers Hans-Christian , Winter Christian
Published: June 2023

Hydroacoustic observations of shallow marine environments reveal a variety of seafloor structures–both of natural and anthropogenic origin. Natural processes can result in features with circular geometries on the seafloor, such as kettles, sinkholes or iceberg pits, but human activities such as dredging, dumping, or detonating explosives can also cause similar shapes. Explaining the origin of these features is difficult if there are only few observations or if competing natural and anthropogenic processes have acted in the same area. Even though the location of dredging and dumping operations and munition blasting may be well documented in many parts of the global coastal ocean today, little information might be available about human practices in the past. In this study, more than 3,000 circular features were identified in side-scan sonar (SSS) datasets covering 1,549 km2 of shallow waters in the southwestern Baltic Sea. Additional data obtained by multibeam echosounder (MBES), sub-bottom profiler (SBP), and different SSS was considered in the analysis of 205 circular features that were characterized based on their sedimentology, morphology, SSS and SBP acoustic signatures. Characteristic differences between the structures allow their classification into six classes, which provide insight into their formation mechanisms. The obtained parameters (morphology, MBES and SSS acoustic backscatter, SBP characteristics and spatial distribution) allow the classification to be applied to the entire SSS dataset, resulting in the classification of 2,903 features. The mapped circular features have diameters between 6 and 77 m and correspond to pockmarks, dumping spots and explosion craters in water depths ranging from 8 m up to 25 m. Despite this rather multi-methodological approach, the origin of some observed features still cannot be explained with certainty, leaving room for further investigations of natural processes and human impacts on the seafloor.
Value transmission in primary schools: are teachers’ acculturation orientations a moderator?
Authors: Auer Petra , Makarova Elena , Döring Anna K. , Demo Heidrun
Published: June 2023

The transmission of human values to primary school pupils is key, which is acknowledged in curricula in a variety of cultural contexts worldwide. The present study presents data from the multicultural and multilingual region of Bolzano in Northern Italy (n = 422 pupils in k = 30 classrooms). In addition to class teachers’ values as predictors of their pupils’ values we investigated whether teachers’ acculturation orientations would strengthen the relationship between teachers’ and children’s values, thereby acting as moderators. We focused on the opposing acculturation orientations of integration-transformation versus exclusion. A multilevel analysis showed that teachers’ conservation values (tradition, conformity, and security) significantly predicted their pupils’ conservation values, and that teachers’ openness to change values (self-direction, stimulation, and hedonism) significantly predicted their pupils’ openness to change values. This indicates successful value transmission in the classroom. Teachers’ self-transcendence (benevolence and universalism) and self-enhancement (achievement and power) values did not significantly predict pupils’ values. As expected, teachers’ acculturation orientations were related to their values, but they did not play a role in predicting pupils’ values. Implications for value transmission in the school context and for acculturation research are discussed.
Serum protein N-glycome patterns reveal alterations associated with endometrial cancer and its phenotypes of differentiation
Authors: Zhang Zejian , Cao Zhen , Wang Jinhui , Li Zepeng , Wang Tao , Xiang Yang
Published: June 2023

Background

Aberrant N-glycosylation and its involvement in pathogenesis have been reported in endometrial cancer (EC). Nevertheless, the serum N-glycomic signature of EC remains unknown. Here, we investigated serum N-glycome patterns of EC to identify candidate biomarkers.

Methods

This study enrolled 34 untreated EC patients and 34 matched healthy controls (HC) from Peking Union Medical College Hospital. State-of-the-art MS-based methods were employed for N-glycans profiling. Multivariate and univariate statistical analyses were used to identify discriminative N-glycans driving classification. Receiver operating characteristic analyses were performed to evaluate classification accuracy.

Results

EC patients displayed distinct differences in serum N-glycome and had abnormal high-mannose and hybrid-type N-glycans, fucosylation, galactosylation, and linkage‐specific sialylation compared with HC. The glycan panel built with the four most discriminative and biologically important derived N-glycan traits could accurately identify EC (random forest model, the area under the curve [AUC]=0.993 [95%CI 0.955-1]). The performance was validated by two other models. Total hybrid-type N-glycans significantly associated with the differentiation types of EC could effectively stratify EC into well- or poorly-differentiated subgroups (AUC>0.8).

Conclusion

This study provides the initial evidence supporting the utility of serum N-glycomic signature as potential markers for the diagnosis and phenotyping of EC.
The effects of adherence to recommended antenatal services on adverse pregnancy outcomes in Northwest Ethiopia: multilevel and propensity score matching (PSM) modeling
Authors: Zelka Muluwas Amentie , Yalew Alemayehu Worku , Debelew Gurmesa Tura
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Adverse pregnancy outcomes are a personal and social crisis caused by easily preventable pregnancy-related problems. Despite that, studies on the effectiveness of adherence to the continuity of antenatal care (ANC) services are scarce. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effectiveness of the continuity of ANC services and the determinants of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

A prospective follow-up study design was conducted from March 2020 to January 2021 in Northwest Ethiopia among randomly selected study subjects. Data were collected by trained data collectors using pre-tested structured questionnaires and analyzed using STATA Software version 14. A multilevel regression model was used to identify determinant factors, whereas the propensity score matching (PSM) model was used to look at the effectiveness of adherence to ANC services on adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Among 2,198 study participants, 26.8% had adverse pregnancy outcomes, with 95% CI: 24.9–28.7 [abortion (6.1%; 95% CI: 5.1–7.1), low birth weight (11.5%; 95% CI: 10.2–12.9), and preterm birth (10.9; 95% CI: 9.6–12.3)]. Determinant factors were iron-folic acid supplementation (AOR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.68), delayed initiation of ANC visits at 4–6 months (AOR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.32, 0.8), initiation of ANC visits after 6 months (AOR = 0.2; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.66), received four ANC visits (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.49), an average time of rupture of the amniotic membrane of between 1 and 12 h (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.97), and pregnancy-related problems (AOR = 1.89; 95% CI: 1.24, 2.9). As a treatment effect, completion of a continuum of visit-based ANC (ATET;β = −0.1, 95% CI: −0.15, −0.05), and continuum of care via space dimension (ATET;β = −0.11, 95% CI: −0.15, −0.07) were statistically significant on the reduction of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion

In the study area, the rate of adverse pregnancy outcomes was high. Even though adherence to the continuity of ANC services via time and space dimensions is effective in the prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes, programmatically important factors were also detected. Therefore, key strategies for promoting the uptake of antenatal services and strengthening iron-folic acid supplementation are strongly recommended.
Human metapneumovirus driven IFN-β production antagonizes macrophage transcriptional induction of IL1-β in response to bacterial pathogens
Authors: Loevenich Simon , Montaldo Nicola P. , Wickenhagen Arthur , Sherstova Tatyana , van Loon Barbara , Boyartchuk Victor , Anthonsen Marit W.
Published: June 2023

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a pneumovirus that may cause severe respiratory disease in humans. HMPV infection has been found to increase susceptibility to bacterial superinfections leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The molecular mechanisms underlying HMPV-mediated increase in bacterial susceptibility are poorly understood and largely understudied. Type I interferons (IFNs), while critical for antiviral defenses, may often have detrimental effects by skewing the host immune response and cytokine output of immune cells. It is currently unknown if HMPV skews the inflammatory response in human macrophages triggered by bacterial stimuli. Here we report that HMPV pre-infection impacts production of specific cytokines. HMPV strongly suppresses IL-1β transcription in response to LPS or heat-killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumonia, while enhancing mRNA levels of IL-6, TNF-α and IFN-β. We demonstrate that in human macrophages the HMPV-mediated suppression of IL-1β transcription requires TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and signaling via the IFN-β-IFNAR axis. Interestingly, our results show that HMPV pre-infection did not impair the LPS-stimulated activation of NF-κB and HIF-1α, transcription factors that stimulate IL-1β mRNA synthesis in human cells. Furthermore, we determined that sequential HMPV-LPS treatment resulted in accumulation of the repressive epigenetic mark H3K27me3 at the IL1B promoter. Thus, for the first time we present data revealing the molecular mechanisms by which HMPV shapes the cytokine output of human macrophages exposed to bacterial pathogens/LPS, which appears to be dependent on epigenetic reprogramming at the IL1B promoter leading to reduced synthesis of IL-1β. These results may improve current understanding of the role of type I IFNs in respiratory disease mediated not only by HMPV, but also by other respiratory viruses that are associated with superinfections.
Antigen presentation by clonally diverse CXCR5+ B cells to CD4 and CD8 T cells is associated with durable response to immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Ding Lizhong , Sun Lu , Bu Melissa T. , Zhang Yanjun , Scott Lauren N. , Prins Robert M. , Su Maureen A. , Lechner Melissa G. , Hugo Willy
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Increased T cell infiltration and interferon gamma (IFNγ) pathway activation are seen in tumors of melanoma patients who respond to ICI (immune checkpoint inhibitor) or MAPK pathway inhibitor (MAPKi) therapies. Yet, the rate of durable tumor control after ICI is almost twice that of MAPKi, suggesting that additional mechanisms may be present in patients responding to ICI therapy that are beneficial for anti-tumor immunity.

Methods

We used transcriptional analysis and clinical outcomes from patients treated with ICI or MAPKi therapies to delineate immune mechanisms driving tumor response.

Results

We discovered response to ICI is associated with CXCL13-driven recruitment of CXCR5+ B cells with significantly higher clonal diversity than MAPKi. Our in vitro data indicate that CXCL13 production was increased in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells by anti-PD1, but not MAPKi, treatment. Higher B cell infiltration and B cell receptor (BCR) diversity allows presentation of diverse tumor antigens by B cells, resulting in activation of follicular helper CD4 T cells (Tfh) and tumor reactive CD8 T cells after ICI therapy. Higher BCR diversity and IFNγ pathway score post-ICI are associated with significantly longer patient survival compared to those with either one or none.

Conclusions

Response to ICI, but not to MAPKi, depends on the recruitment of CXCR5+ B cells into the tumor microenvironment and their productive tumor antigen presentation to follicular helper and cytotoxic, tumor reactive T cells. Our study highlights the potential of CXCL13 and B cell based strategies to enhance the rate of durable response in melanoma patients treated with ICI.
No adaptation to warming after selection for 800 generations in the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi BOF 92
Authors: Zhou Cong , Zhang Di , Yi Xiangqi , Beardall John , Gao Kunshan
Published: June 2023

Ocean warming is suggested to exert profound effects on phytoplankton physiology and growth. Here, we investigated how the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi (BOF 92, a non-calcifying strain) responded to changes in temperature in short- and long-term thermal treatments. The specific growth rate after 10 days of acclimation increased gradually with increasing temperatures (14, 17, 21, 24, 28°C) and peaked at ~23°C, followed by a significant decrease to 28°C. Chlorophyll a content, cell size, photosynthetic rate, and respiratory rate increased significantly from 14°C to 24°C, but the cellular particulate organic carbon (POC) and nitrogen (PON) showed the lowest values at the optimal temperature. In contrast, during long-term thermal treatments at 17°C and 21°C for 656 days (~790 generations for 17°C treatment; ~830 generations for 21°C treatment), the warming significantly stimulated the growth in the first 34 days and the last 162 days, but there was no significant difference in specific growth rate from Day 35 to Day 493. Chlorophyll a content, cell size, cellular POC/PON, and the ratio of POC to PON, showed no significant difference between the warming and control for most of the duration of the long-term exposure. The warming-selected population did not acquire persistent traits in terms of growth and cell quotas of POC and PON, which resumed to the levels in the control temperature treatment after about 9 generations in the shift test. In summary, our results indicate that warming by 4°C (17°C and 21°C) enhanced the growth, but did not result in adaptative changes in E. huxleyi (BOF 92) over a growth period of about 800 generations, reflecting that mild or non-stressful warming treatment to E. huxleyi isolated from cold seas does not alter its phenotypic plasticity.
Effect of aramid core-spun yarn on impact resistance of aramid/epoxy composite
Authors: Miao Yajing , Ni Jiahuan , Zhu Kai , Liu Yizhou , Chang Yu , Gong Zixin , Yang Dan , Zhang Xin
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The surface of aramid filament is smooth, which is a great defect for impact resistance and composite molding of aramid/epoxy composite. In this study, a new type of yarn—aramid core-spun yarn is introduced to the fabrication of compositematerials. It increases the friction among yarns and optimizes the performance of yarns.

Methods: To verify the improvement of yarn in the composite material, the hand lay-up process is used, and the first layer and the fourth layer are replaced by core-spun yarns in a four-layer composite configuration.

Results and Discussion: The energy absorption, and the damage of the impacted surface and the back surface are evaluated through the drop weight impact test. The yarn pull-out test can reflect the internal friction of fabric. The results show that the average energy absorption of new yarn in the first layer is 10 J cm2/g more than that in the fourth layer at a 90°/45°/-45°/0° configuration after the normalization, but the conclusion is contrary when the structure is -45°/0°/90°/45°. Under the structure of 90°/45°/-45°/0°, the damaged area of the fabric is larger when the aramid core-spun yarn is laid on the first layer, while a contrary result can be found for the structure of -45°/0°/90°/45°. The fundamental research will provide design ideas and supports for aramid composite.
Construction and validation of a predictive risk model for nosocomial infections with MDRO in NICUs: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Zhou Jinyan , Luo Feixiang , Liang Jianfeng , Cheng Xiaoying , Chen Xiaofei , Li Linyu , Chen Shuohui
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to construct and validate a predictive risk model (PRM) for nosocomial infections with multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO) in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), in order to provide a scientific and reliable prediction tool, and to provide reference for clinical prevention and control of MDRO infections in NICUs.

Methods

This multicenter observational study was conducted at NICUs of two tertiary children’s hospitals in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Using cluster sampling, eligible neonates admitted to NICUs of research hospitals from January 2018 to December 2020 (modeling group) or from July 2021 to June 2022 (validation group) were included in this study. Univariate analysis and binary logistic regression analysis were used to construct the PRM. H-L tests, calibration curves, ROC curves and decision curve analysis were used to validate the PRM.

Results

Four hundred and thirty-five and one hundred fourteen neonates were enrolled in the modeling group and validation group, including 89 and 17 neonates infected with MDRO, respectively. Four independent risk factors were obtained and the PRM was constructed, namely: P = 1/ (1+ e−X), X = −4.126 + 1.089× (low birth weight) +1.435× (maternal age ≥ 35 years) +1.498× (use of antibiotics >7 days) + 0.790× (MDRO colonization). A nomogram was drawn to visualize the PRM. Through internal and external validation, the PRM had good fitting degree, calibration, discrimination and certain clinical validity. The prediction accuracy of the PRM was 77.19%.

Conclusion

Prevention and control strategies for each independent risk factor can be developed in NICUs. Moreover, clinical staff can use the PRM to early identification of neonates at high risk, and do targeted prevention to reduce MDRO infections in NICUs.