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Alpha-methyl acyl-CoA racemase deficiency (AMACRD) is a rare peroxisomal disorder that results in the accumulation of pristanic acid and 16 cases have been reported in the literature. Here, we present three additional patients, two confirmed by genomic study and one suspected. Three siblings who were born to healthy unrelated parents developed recurrent episodes of encephalopathy, seizures, and behavioral disturbances. In all 3, brain MRI showed lesions in the thalami, cerebral peduncles, and mesencephalic tegmentum, as well as brain volume loss. In addition, one patient had a chronic hemispheric infarct and an acute contralateral infarct, and another had a subacute infarct involving multiple vascular territories without abnormalities on MR angiography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As marginalized graduate students and faculty, we have stories to tell about our experiences within school psychology. Many of these stories center our oppression, trauma, and exclusion but some of them also center our joy and resistance. The purpose of this collaborative autoethnographic project was to create a counterspace in which we, BIWOC faculty and graduate students, could come together to engage in storytelling and build community amongst one another as a way to survive and thrive in academia. As a result of the counterspace, we are able to provide critical feedback and recommendations for school psychology programs to better support marginalized students and faculty. And we also offer critical hope and knowledge to marginalized graduate students and faculty who are currently in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of schizophrenia, affecting approximately 1% of the global population, underscores the urgency for innovative therapeutic strategies. Recent insights into the role of neuroinflammation, the gut–brain axis, and the microbiota in schizophrenia pathogenesis have paved the way for the exploration of psychobiotics as a novel treatment avenue. These interventions, targeting the gut microbiome, offer a promising approach to ameliorating psychiatric symptoms. Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence and nanotechnology are set to revolutionize psychobiotic development and application, promising to enhance their production, precision, and effectiveness. This interdisciplinary approach heralds a new era in schizophrenia management, potentially transforming patient outcomes and offering a beacon of hope for those afflicted by this complex disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the evaluation of educational programs becomes crucial for making evidence-based decisions. This study aims to validate and pilot an assessment instrument tailored to evaluate an innovative national reading program in Chile, particularly during the critical phase of post-pandemic educational recovery. The focus of this study is to encompass three key areas: a. assessing reading proficiency in first-grade students, b. examining the utilization of technology and reading materials in early childhood education, and c. gauging the comprehension and utilization of program information by all stakeholders involved. The research design is grounded in a research and development (R&D) approach employing a mixed-method model. We engaged 11 experts in the field to assess the questionnaire's validity using the Delphi method, administered to a representative sample. Subsequently, through confirmatory factor analysis, we established the construct validity of the questionnaires, revealing goodness-offit indices such as comparative fit index (CFI) scores ranging from 0.90 to 0.92, a root means square error of approximation (RMSEA) of 0.08, and Tucker-Lewis’s index (TLI) values between 0.88 and 0.90. Reliability analysis yielded robust outcomes, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranging between 0.89 and 0.93 for the questionnaire and McDonald’s omega coefficients ranging between 0.92 and 0.93. Our study confirms the validity of the questionnaires, positioning them as dependable tools for evaluating the national reading literacy development program in Chile. These validated instruments hold the potential to facilitate further research endeavors and inform the formulation of effective public reading policies in Chile and beyond, across diverse educational landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern Industrial Revolution has ushered in a wave of technological advancements, including the proliferation of over 20 billion digital identities associated with the Internet of Things (IoT) devices worldwide. Amid this complexity, IoT has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering multitudinous solutions from the perspectives of school management, instructors, and learners. The prime objective of this article is to review the current state-of-the-art in IoT and education specifically in areas like remote laboratories, improved learning, and school management. The implemented method is systematic literature review of IoT technology's practical applications and case studies to meet these key educational stakeholders' unique needs. The studies focus on remote labs, learning experiences, and campus administration. This comprehensive analysis gathered data from sources like Scopus and WoS and summarized insights from 122 articles. These cases encompass the foundational principles of IoT, its diverse applications in higher education, its challenges, and future avenues for research. Our findings indicate that (a) the implementation of IoT-based remote laboratories has transformed engineering education by enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of labs, improving students' comprehension of complex concepts, and facilitating a more interactive and engaging educational experience, (b) the integration of IoT systems within educational settings has profoundly enhanced both teaching and learning experiences by creating interactive, immersive environments and significantly improving student engagement and understanding through personalized and hands-on learning approaches, and (c) the integration of IoT technology within educational administration has significantly advanced the digitalization of traditional school management systems, enhancing administrative efficiency in areas such as schedule management, student records, and financial operations through automation, thereby streamlining processes and enhancing responsiveness in educational institutions. However, it must be noted that the current infrastructure, particularly in public universities, often falls short of fully harnessing IoT technologies to optimize the learning experience. Investments in infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum design are imperative to fully leverage IoT's benefits for education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Physis: Revista de Saúde Coletiva is the property of CEPESC and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the field of complexity, new methodologies emerge, such as horizon architecture, which help to focus solutions that can be integrated to foster innovation in university education. Technologies are also opening up opportunities for training, such as virtual and augmented reality. This article aims to answer the question: What innovations do postgraduate students perceive in environments using horizons architecture to integrate virtual reality? In this project's training experience for students, the horizons architecture strategy was implemented with virtual reality resources and emerging technologies. The present research was conducted with a mixed methodology, using a concurrent triangulation design. The participants were chosen from a sample for non-probability convenience. Three instruments were administered to 99 graduate students in Humanities and Education: i) a semi-structured questionnaire with demographic data and interests in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ii) a semi-structured questionnaire on students' perceptions of learning and innovative projects, and iii) a validated Likert-scale questionnaire on elements and types of educational innovation. Virtual and augmented reality supported the distance education modalities and project presentations. The results show that: (a) open and systemic innovation, (b) creation of new products and services, (c) the potential of horizons architecture strategy, (d) motivation boosted by virtual and augmented reality, and (e) critical aspects of integrating virtual and augmented reality (technical and academic). It is concluded that horizons architecture with virtual reality in university education encourages complex reasoning and invites the search for new solutions. The challenge is to train citizens with critical, scientific, systemic, innovative and entrepreneurial thinking, who are also empathetic, cooperative and committed to sustainable development. This study may be valuable to teachers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers interested in innovative educational environments and technologies, especially those in graduate education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal parasites continue to be a public health problem in low- and middle-income countries. Broad use of anthelmintics during deworming programs is still necessary in many regions. However, description of the usage of these medications in general medical practice has been limited. The objective of this study was to determine the use of anthelmintic drugs and their indications in a group of Colombian patients. This was a descriptive study from a drug-dispensing database, identifying patients with prescriptions for anthelmintic drugs. A total of 381 cases were randomly selected, and their medical records were reviewed, analyzing sociodemographic, clinical, and pharmacological variables (indication of use). The lack of diagnosis registration or clinical manifestations of parasites was determined as a prescription without indication. In total, 50.9% (n = 194) of patients were female, and 67.4% of all patients were under 18 yr of age. The diagnosis of helminthiases was clearly stated in 114 (29.9%) patients, and only 4.2% (n = 16) of these had microbiological confirmation. The most commonly used anthelmintic drug was albendazole (70.4% of all prescriptions). The use of anthelmintics was not indicated in 266 cases (69.8%). Nutritional supplements or vitamin prescriptions were associated with using anthelmintics without indication (odds ratio: 2.25; 95% confidence interval: 1.26–4.03). A high proportion of patients lacked symptoms or diagnoses in their clinical records that supported the use of anthelmintic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research competencies are skills that university students must develop to create and socialize scientific products during their academic live. In this research, an experience was implemented to improve the students' competency levels through its imbrication with complex thinking and the use of Education 4.0 applications, such as remote team workflow development apps, web-based virtual reality, and social robotics. The study was sequential-quantitative and descriptive. A questionnaire was applied before and after the experience to know the perception of 105 Mexican university students, later a rubric was implemented for the teacher's assessment. The results indicate that the students perceived an improvement in their research skills, however, the evaluation showed a difference between the student's perception and the teacher's regarding improvement in said skills. The experience can be scaled to other scenarios, where disruptive teaching strategies can support research skills development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging Artificial Intelligence-enhanced technology platforms in education warrant attention to exploring new learning strategies and dynamics. Keeping up with the accelerating momentum to bring classic traditional learning activities to Artificial Intelligence-supported platforms may unbalance the interest in developing the participants' higher-order thinking. This article presents case study research of an Artificial Intelligence-based technological platform to measure complex thinking traits of higher education participants in an Ideathon learning scenario. The didactical strategy was grounded in the Transition Design approach, with Sharing Economy as the challenge. An overview of the process for developing Artificial Intelligence-supported activities, the challenges and risks identified in the development, and a classification model and enhancements for future implementation in a subsequent pilot are presented. The findings set a guideline for balancing Artificial Intelligence-powered educational activities and the development of the participants' complex thinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical rehabilitation has been widely used to restore or maintain motor capabilities of patients with upper-limb mobility limitations. Despite its effectiveness, physical rehabilitation has several difficulties in engaging patients with the multiple therapeutical sessions required to obtain measurable benefits. Novel technologies incorporate gamification strategies to encourage participants to play during the rehabilitation sessions (instead of counting repetitions), providing benefits for therapy adherence. "Serious" or also called applied games have been used as a complementary therapy for neuromuscular disorders. However, the therapy effectiveness of several serious games for health has been questioned by the clinical experts since crucial factors associated with the physical rehabilitation are not commonly included in the gameplay. This study reports the use of a physiologically aware serious game developed using surface electromyography (sEMG) to capture upper-limb muscular fatigue levels of participants. We carried out a pilot study lasting four weeks with five participants diagnosed with monoparesis/hemiparesis to evaluate the feasibility of using the fatigue-adaptive game called Force Defense as a complementary tool for physical rehabilitation in a local community-based rehabilitation center. Preliminary results suggest a positive user gameplay experience as well as good usability of the system reported by participants after the first intervention session. Moreover, we showed how the physiological adaptation was able to encourage participants to maintain exertion in the therapeutically desired zone, thus improving the system's effectiveness. Participants also improved in their functional abilities of the upper limbs and the game performance measured in pre- and post-moments and reported reduced levels of perceived fatigue after the end of the training program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Logos: Anales del Seminario de Metafísica (1575-6866) is the property of Universidad Complutense de Madrid and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Salud Bosque is the property of Universidad El Bosque and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The dynamics of change in the work environment are becoming more dizzying, given that adopting new technologies generates new knowledge and jobs. This research analyzed a case study of a Mexican university implementing alternative credentials. The method was instrumental case study research, with exploratory and descriptive categories, applying three instruments: documentary analysis of alternative credential programs, a questionnaire, and interviews with the experts involved in designing and delivering alternative credentials. In this case, the implementation of alternative credentials coincided with the reference frameworks of the European Union and the province of Ontario, Canada. Their frameworks mention the vision and institutional mission of alternative credentialing for the value offered, its definition, operation, award processes, accreditation, and quality. The case provides data for interested higher education institutions, such as why to do it, the strategy to follow, the added value offered, the elements that define it and its design, the assessment process and assignment, the timing of accreditation, and where it is recognized. This research contributes recommendations for defining and managing alternative credentials to serve as a reference for other universities interested in incorporating technologysupported educational innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista EIA is the property of Escuela de Ingenieria de Antioquia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The advancements of technology have allowed digital transformation to reach all productive sectors, including the education sector and its members. This transformation is linked to emerging technologies, the digitalization of processes and resources, and the demand for users to upgrade to the latest technological updates. This research aims to analyze digital transformation and media literacy publications that impact higher education. Its purpose is to identify the types of research and topics they address and explore the scope of digital transformation in higher education institutions. The systematic mapping method was used to analyze 298 articles published in two databases, Scopus and Web of Science (WoS). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select the articles that could be included in this research. The results show that the largest proportion of articles were found in Scopus, and used both qualitative and quantitative empirical research methods, followed by theoretical-conceptual methods and, to a lesser extent, mixed methods. Likewise, the publications originated in five continents, and the Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy had the largest number of publications, with 14. Forty-two percent of the studies were classified in the strategy category, with the most mentioned topic being digital pedagogies. This research provides a perspective on digital transformation studies in higher education institutions and their internalization approaches. This research may be of value to trainers, students, decision-makers, and researchers interested in transformation, educommunication, and educational innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are still many unanswered questions concerning viral SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis in COVID-19. Accessory proteins in SARS-CoV-2 consist of eleven viral proteins whose roles during infection are still not completely understood. Here, a review on the current knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 accessory proteins is summarized updating new research that could be critical in understanding SARS-CoV-2 interaction with the host. Some accessory proteins such as ORF3b, ORF6, ORF7a and ORF8 have been shown to be important IFN-I antagonists inducing an impairment in the host immune response. In addition, ORF3a is involved in apoptosis whereas others like ORF9b and ORF9c interact with cellular organelles leading to suppression of the antiviral response in infected cells. However, possible roles of ORF7b and ORF10 are still awaiting to be described. Also, ORF3d has been reassigned. Relevant information on the knowns and the unknowns in these proteins is analyzed, which could be crucial for further understanding of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and to design strategies counteracting their actions evading immune responses in COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Paper Trails: The US Post and the Making of the American West" by Cameron Blevins is a book that explores the role of the US Post in Anglo American settlement in the American West. Blevins uses a dataset of over one hundred thousand post offices and archival research to analyze the impact of the US Post on the West. The book challenges the myth of steady progression across the West and highlights the uneven and chaotic nature of settlement. Blevins also examines the meaning and limits of bureaucracy in the context of a nation spreading across a vast continent. The book includes images and maps, and the companion website is a useful tool for teaching about the West. Overall, "Paper Trails" provides a rich narrative about settlement in the West and offers a valuable analysis of bureaucracy during the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. [Extracted from the article]

Advances in technology, research development, and teaching practices have brought improvements in the training, levels of autonomy, and quality of life of people who need support and resources appropriate to their circumstances of disability. This article focuses on empirically analyzing the usefulness of treatments that have been supported by technology to answer the question "How do technological ecosystems being used help people with special educational needs?" The multiple case study methodology was used to address six categories of analysis: project data, objectives, processes, outputs and outcomes, technologies, and impact. The processes, open in communication, were characterized as transversal, ethical, and sustainable. The results yielded various technological ecosystems that support people with disabilities, deliver the help they need to improve their health, and provide enjoyable user experiences. At the same time, they promote the training and improvement of teaching methodologies and involve families in order to improve their knowledge, attitudes, and care of children, young people, and adults with functional diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Mexicana de Endocrinología, Metabolismo y Nutrición is the property of Publicidad Permanyer SLU and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Despite the role of pigs as a source of new Influenza A Virus viruses (IAV) potentially capable of initiating human pandemics, immune responses to swine influenza virus (SwIV) in pigs are not fully understood. Several SwIV epitopes presented by swine MHC (SLA) class I have been identified using different approaches either in outbred pigs or in Babraham large white inbred pigs, which are 85% identical by genome wide SNP analysis. On the other hand, some class II SLA epitopes were recently described in outbred pigs. In this work, Babraham large white inbred pigs were selected to identify SLA II epitopes from SwIV H1N1. PBMCs were screened for recognition of overlapping peptides covering the NP and M1 proteins from heterologous IAV H1N1 in IFNγ ELISPOT. A novel SLA class II restricted epitope was identified in NP from swine H1N1. This conserved novel epitope could be the base for further vaccine approaches against H1N1 in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contribution: This article analyzes the correlation between users’ digital competencies and their tendencies to successfully complete energy sustainability massive online open courses (MOOCs). In addition to reviewing whether digital competencies are a predictor of the effective completion of the course, this article analyzes whether participants acquire higher levels of digital competence through interaction in the course. Background: Completion rates of MOOCs typically range between 5% and 8%, with respect to registered participants. According to the literature, low rates may be due to factors such as students’ lack of motivation or digital competence limitations. Research Questions: RQ1: Is there a correlation between the level of digital competence declared by the participants and their tendency to successfully complete the MOOC? RQ2: Does participation in a MOOC improve participants’ digital competencies? Methodology: Two surveys, one pretest and one post-test (before and after the MOOCs), were applied to assess the digital competence levels of the participants. The total population of participants in the 12 MOOCs was 123 124 unique users, from which 9075 participants (pretest)—7.37% of the universe—and 6029 participants (post-test)—35.70% of the universe—were extracted as a sample. To determine its internal consistency, an exploratory factorial analysis was performed on both instruments and a Cronbach’s alpha greater than 0.8 was obtained in all of its dimensions. Findings: A significant level of moderate to high correlation between the declared levels of digital competence and the trend toward successful completion of the MOOCs under study was observed. However, a significant increase was not demonstrated in the levels of digital competence acquired in the interaction with MOOCs. Conclusions: The level of digital competence of a participant in a MOOC was a valid predictor of their tendency to finish it. Although no increase in the levels of digital competence acquired through MOOCs was demonstrated, this may be because the subject matter of the MOOCs was alien to the indicators and dimensions of the digital competence. Further research could analyze the effectiveness of MOOCs in terms of digital competition at the acquired levels of competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual rehabilitation has been used during decades to provide a more personalized, controlled, and enjoyable experience on upper-limb motor rehabilitation. Since novel virtual reality (VR) technologies are now accessible and highly immersive, the challenge for a wide dissemination of virtual rehabilitation in clinical scenarios has shifted from the hardware robustness to the software intelligence. A sophisticated technique that provides physiological intelligence to novel human-computer interaction (HCI) applications is biocybernetic adaptation. The concept emerges from the electrophysiological computing field, and it proposes using body signals to detect human states (e.g. workload or fatigue) and modulate the virtual activity accordingly. This paper evaluates the effects of using biocybernetic adaptation in a virtual rehabilitation game that aims to encourage users to exert at a desirable intensity level while interacting with the virtual environment. The system relies on surface-electromyography (sEMG) signals to detect fatigue levels in real-time and adapt the game challenge dynamically. Perceived fatigue levels, game user experience, and game performance parameters are assessed after playing the game, considering two different visualization modalities: non-immersive (conventional flat screen) and immersive (VR headset). Results revealed how the biocybernetic system in the immersive condition not only produced lower levels of perceived fatigue compared with the non-immersive, but also, created a more enjoyable and positive experience in a controlled experiment with 24 healthy subjects. Moreover, participants in the immersive condition showed a better performance in the virtual game and higher usability levels scored by users compared with the non-immersive condition. To conclude, we highlight the importance of combining novel immersive approaches with physiologically aware systems to enhance the benefits of virtual rehabilitation therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have been gaining popularity as non-formal lifelong learning educational platforms. However, they have been criticized for their low completion rate and low ability for networking. The purpose of this paper is to analyze how incorporating entrepreneurial competencies in MOOCs develops attributes of educational innovation and collaborative projects. Design/methodology/approach: The research followed a three-stage process: in first stage, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify dimensions of entrepreneurial skills and attributes of educational innovation in MOOCs. In the second stage, a quantitative study was carried out, based on the analysis of pre- and post-test surveys taken by a sample of 6,517 participants. In the last stage, the interaction analysis model/computer-mediated communication analysis model was applied through qualitative analysis, using the MAXQDA tool to identify if entrepreneurship opportunities were generated in the interactions within the discussion forums of the MOOCs. Findings: The results show that the analyzed MOOCs have an overall completion rate of 12.55 per cent, above the average of the rates found in the literature review. However, only 14.29 per cent of the participants expressed at least one opportunity to generate ventures related to the topics of energy in the discussion forums. Practical implications: This research could help instructional designers and universities to consider the inclusion of entrepreneurship issues in the design of MOOCs' content and to encourage more activities that promote networking among participants, to identify business potential from the educational materials. Originality/value: This research is one of the very few studies on entrepreneurship competencies in MOOCs to understand how the inclusion of issues related to entrepreneurship in MOOCs can generate a positive impact on participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

English teachers should write and share their writing. The authors analyze how composing sonnets added to understanding of poetic genre, literary terminology, and state standards. This article argues on behalf of more creative writing in English language arts and explains the benefits of teachers and students sharing their writing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As we age, there is an increased risk for the development of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Few studies consider that age-associated changes in the alveolar lining fluid (ALF) may increase susceptibility by altering soluble mediators of innate immunity. We assessed the impact of adult or elderly human ALF during Mtb infection in vitro and in vivo. We identified amplification of pro-oxidative and proinflammatory pathways in elderly ALF and decreased binding capability of surfactant-associated surfactant protein A (SP-A) and surfactant protein D (SP-D) to Mtb. Human macrophages infected with elderly ALF-exposed Mtb had reduced control and fewer phagosome-lysosome fusion events, which was reversed when elderly ALF was replenished with functional SP-A/SP-D. In vivo, exposure to elderly ALF exacerbated Mtb infection in young mice. Our studies demonstrate how the pulmonary environment changes as we age and suggest that Mtb may benefit from declining host defenses in the lung mucosa of the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Analisi: Quaderns de Comunicacio i Cultura is the property of Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Antigen presenting cells (APC) of the mononuclear phagocytic system include dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages (Macs) which are essential mediators of innate and adaptive immune responses. Many of the biological functions attributed to these cell subsets have been elucidated using models that utilize in vitro -matured cells derived from common progenitors. However, it has recently been shown that monocyte culture systems generate heterogeneous populations of cells, DCs, and Macs. In light of these findings, we analyzed the most commonly used bovine in vitro -derived APC models and compared them to bona fide DCs. Here, we show that bovine monocyte-derived DCs and Macs can be differentiated on the basis of CD11c and MHC class II (MHCII) expression and that in vitro conditions generate a heterologous group of both DCs and Macs with defined and specific biological activities. In addition, skin-migrating macrophages present in the bovine afferent lymph were identified and phenotyped for the first time. RNA sequencing analyses showed that these monophagocytic cells have distinct transcriptomic profiles similar to those described in other species. These results have important implications for the interpretation of data obtained using in vitro systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is a polymicrobial syndrome that results from a combination of infectious agents, such as environmental stressors, population size, management strategies, age, and genetics. PRDC results in reduced performance as well as increased mortality rates and production costs in the pig industry worldwide. This review focuses on the interactions of two enveloped RNA viruses--porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and swine influenza virus (SwIV)--as major etiological agents that contribute to PRDC within the porcine cellular innate immunity during infection. The innate immune system of the porcine lung includes alveolar and parenchymal/interstitial macrophages, neutrophils (PMN), conventional dendritic cells (DC) and plasmacytoid DC, natural killer cells, and γδ T cells, thus the in vitro and in vivo interactions between those cells and PRRSV and SwIV are reviewed. Likewise, the few studies regarding PRRSV-SwIV co-infection are illustrated together with the different modulation mechanisms that are induced by the two viruses. Alterations in responses by natural killer (NK), PMN, or γδ T cells have not received much attention within the scientific community as their counterpart antigen-presenting cells and there are numerous gaps in the knowledge regarding the role of those cells in both infections. This review will help in paving the way for future directions in PRRSV and SwIV research and enhancing the understanding of the innate mechanisms that are involved during infection with these viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bio-grafía. Escritos Sobre la Biología y su Enseñanza is the property of Universidad Pedaggica Nacional and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The impact of COVID-19 lock-downs for European (female) immunologists - our views as members of the EFIS gender and diversity task force A task force on "Gender and diversity" was recently founded by the European Federation of Immunological Societies (EFIS). In this article, we reflect on the effects and challenges of COVID-19 measurements for immunologists, and for female immunologists in particular, and immunology as a field. A survey performed by a team of researchers at the Politecnico University of Milan focused on the space wherein university faculty members all over Italy worked during the COVID-19 pandemic [8]. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: Background: Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common form of hearing loss that can be inherited or triggered by environmental insults; auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) is a SNHL subtype with unique diagnostic criteria. The genetic factors associated with these impairments are vast and diverse, but causal genetic factors are rarely characterized. Methods: A family dyad, both cochlear implant recipients, presented with a hearing history of bilateral, progressive SNHL, and ANSD. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed to identify coding sequence variants shared by both family members, and screened against genes relevant to hearing loss and variants known to be associated with SNHL and ANSD. Results: Both family members are successful cochlear implant users, demonstrating effective auditory nerve stimulation with their devices. Genetic analyses revealed a mutation (rs35725509) in the TMTC2 gene, which has been reported previously as a likely genetic cause of SNHL in another family of Northern European descent. Conclusion: This study represents the first confirmation of the rs35725509 variant in an independent family as a likely cause for the complex hearing loss phenotype (SNHL and ANSD) observed in this family dyad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ is a global transcriptional regulator associated with anti-inflammatory actions. It is highly expressed in alveolar macrophages (AMs), which are unable to clear the intracellular pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb). Although M.tb infection induces PPARγ in human macrophages, which contributes to M.tb growth, the mechanisms underlying this are largely unknown. We undertook NanoString gene expression analysis to identify novel PPARγ effectors that condition macrophages to be more susceptible to M.tb infection. This revealed several genes that are differentially regulated in response to PPARγ silencing during M.tb infection, including the Bcl-2 family members Bax (pro-apoptotic) and Mcl-1 (pro-survival). Apoptosis is an important defense mechanism that prevents the growth of intracellular microbes, including M.tb, but is limited by virulent M.tb. This suggested that M.tb differentially regulates Mcl-1 and Bax expression through PPARγ to limit apoptosis. In support of this, gene and protein expression analysis revealed that Mcl-1 expression is driven by PPARγ during M.tb infection in human macrophages. Further, 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) is critical for PPARγ activity and Mcl-1 expression. We also determined that PPARγ and 15-LOX regulate macrophage apoptosis during M.tb infection, and that pre-clinical therapeutics that inhibit Mcl-1 activity significantly limit M.tb intracellular growth in both human macrophages and an in vitro TB granuloma model. In conclusion, identification of the novel PPARγ effector Mcl-1 has determined PPARγ and 15-LOX are critical regulators of apoptosis during M.tb infection and new potential targets for host-directed therapy for M.tb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing evidence that induction of local immune responses is a key component of effective vaccines. For respiratory pathogens, for example tuberculosis and influenza, aerosol delivery is being actively explored as a method to administer vaccine antigens. Current animal models used to study respiratory pathogens suffer from anatomical disparity with humans. The pig is a natural and important host of influenza viruses and is physiologically more comparable to humans than other animal models in terms of size, respiratory tract biology and volume. It may also be an important vector in the birds to human infection cycle. A major drawback of the current pig model is the inability to analyze antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell responses, which are critical to respiratory immunity. Here we address this knowledge gap using an established in-bred pig model with a high degree of genetic identity between individuals, including the MHC (Swine Leukocyte Antigen (SLA)) locus. We developed a toolset that included long-term in vitro pig T-cell culture and cloning and identification of novel immunodominant influenza-derived T-cell epitopes. We also generated structures of the two SLA class I molecules found in these animals presenting the immunodominant epitopes. These structures allowed definition of the primary anchor points for epitopes in the SLA binding groove and established SLA binding motifs that were used to successfully predict other influenza-derived peptide sequences capable of stimulating T-cells. Peptide-SLA tetramers were constructed and used to track influenza-specific T-cells ex vivo in blood, the lungs and draining lymph nodes. Aerosol immunization with attenuated single cycle influenza viruses (S-FLU) induced large numbers of CD8+ T-cells specific for conserved NP peptides in the respiratory tract. Collectively, these data substantially increase the utility of pigs as an effective model for studying protective local cellular immunity against respiratory pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) causes a highly contagious disease in cloven-hoofed animals. A synthetic vaccine candidate consisting of dendrimeric peptides harbouring two copies of a B-epitope [VP1(136–154)] linked to a T-cell epitope [3A(21–35)] of FMDV confers protection to type O FMDV challenge in pigs. Herein we show in cattle that novel dendrimeric peptides bearing a T-cell epitope [VP1(21–40] and two or four copies of a B-cell epitope [VP1(135–160)] from type O1 Campos FMDV (termed B2T and B4T, respectively) elicited FMDV specific immune responses to similar levels to a commercial vaccine. Animals were challenged with FMDV and 100% of vaccinated cattle with B2T or B4T were protected to podal generalization. Moreover, bovines immunized with B4T were completely protected (with no clinical signs) against FMDV challenge after three vaccine doses, which was associated with titers of viral neutralizing antibodies in serum higher than those of B2T group (p< 0.05) and levels of opsonic antibodies similar to those of animals immunized with one dose of FMDV commercial vaccine. Bovines vaccinated with both dendrimeric peptides presented high levels of IgG1 anti FMDV in sera and in mucosa. When IgA in nasal secretions was measured, 20% or 40% of the animals in B2T or B4T groups respectively, showed anti-FMDV IgA titers. In addition, B2T and B4T peptides evoked similar consistent T cell responses, being recognized in vitro by lymphocytes from most of the immunized cattle in the proliferation assay, and from all animals in the IFN-γ production assay. Taken together, these results support the potential of dendrimers B2T or B4T in cattle as a highly valuable, cost-effective FMDV candidate vaccine with DIVA potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vaccination is an attractive ecological alternative to the use of acaricides for parasite control. However, effective anti-parasite vaccines against sarcoptic mange have not yet been developed. The purpose of this study was first to identify Sarcoptes scabiei immunodominant antigens and second to evaluate them as vaccine candidates in a rabbit/S. scabiei var. cuniculi model. Methods: The S. scabiei Ssλ15 immunodominant antigen was selected by immunoscreening of a S. scabiei var. hominis cDNA. The full-length cDNA was sequenced and cloned into the pGEX vector and the recombinant protein expressed in BL21 (DE3) cells and purified. A vaccination trial was performed consisting of a test group (n = 8) immunised with recAgs (a mix of two recombinant antigens, Ssλ15 and the previously described Ssλ20ΔB3) and a control group (n = 8) immunised with PBS. All analyses were performed with R Statistical Environment with a set at 0.050. Results: The full-length open reading frame of the 1,821 nt cloned cDNA encodes a 64 kDa polypeptide, the sequence of which had 96 % identity with a hypothetical protein of S. scabiei. Ssλ15 was localised by immunostaining of skin sections in the tegument surrounding the mouthparts and the coxa in the legs of mites. Rabbit immunisation with recAgs induced high levels of specific IgG (P < 0.010) and increased levels of total IgEs. However, no significant clinical protection against S. scabiei challenge was detected. Unexpectedly, the group immunised with the recAgs mix had significantly higher lesion scores (P = 0.050) although lower mean mite densities than those observed in the control group. These results might indicate that the lesions in the recAgs group were due not only to the mites density but also to an exacerbated immunological response after challenge, which is in agreement with the specific high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 and TNFα) detected after challenge in this group. Conclusions: The selected antigens delivered as recombinant proteins had no clinical protective efficacy against S. scabiei infestation although immunisation reduced mite density. However, these results pave the way for future studies on alternative production systems, adjuvants, delivery methods and combinations of antigens in order to manage stimulation of clinical protective immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRRSV is the etiological agent of one of the most important swine diseases with a significant economic burden worldwide and limitations in vaccinology. Exosomes are 30-100 nm vesicles of endocytic origin. Remarkably, immunizations with exosomes containing antigens from tumors or pathogens are capable of eliciting protective immune responses, albeit variably, in cancer and infectious diseases. Here we describe the isolation, molecular composition and immunogenicity of serum-derived exosomes from naïve animals, from PRRSV viremic animals and from animals previously PRRSV infected but already free of viruses (non viremic). Exosomes were isolated through size exclusion chromatography and characterized by different methodologies. Exosome-enriched fractions from naïve and natural infected animals contained classical tetraspanin exosomal markers (CD63 and CD81) and high concentrations of particles in the size-range of exosomes as detected by nanoparticle tracking analysis and cryo-TEM. NanoLC-MS/MS was used to identify viral antigens associated to exosomes. PRRSV-proteins were detected in serum samples from only viremic animals and from animals previously infected already free of viruses (non-viremic), but not in controls. Moreover, immune sera from pigs previously exposed to PRRSV specifically reacted against exosomes purified from non-viremic pig sera in a dose-dependent manner, a reactivity not detected when naïve sera was used in the assay. To facilitate future studies, a scaling-up process was implemented. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first molecular characterization of serum-derived exosomes from naïve pigs and pigs actively or previously infected with PRRSV. The presence of antigenic viral proteins in serum-derived exosomes free of virus, suggest their use as a novel vaccine approach against PRRSV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of rare taxa to aquatic bioassessments remains a subject of debate, and generates contrasting positions among researchers. Very little is known about the effect of lowabundance taxa (LAT) for calculating both single and multimetric macroinvertebrate-based indices, as well as the ecological status classification. In this study, we aimed to: i) identify the aquatic macroinvertebrates that need special attention during index applications given their low abundance; ii) analyse the effect of excluding LAT on single (IBMWP and IASPT) and multimetric (STAR-ICMi) biological indices; and iii) investigate the influence of LAT on river ecological status assessments. To this end, two different river basins in SE Spain and N Italy with contrasting climatic conditions and river types were selected. Our results showed that almost all the taxa at the family level can act as low-abundance taxa. In particular, the LAT belonged mainly to orders Diptera, Trichoptera, Coleoptera, Gastropoda and Hemiptera. The IndVal analysis stressed Tabanidae, Cordulegasteridae and Hydroptilidae as the most characteristic low-abundance families in the Spanish data set, while Dryopidae and Athericidae were identified mostly in N Italy. Excluding LAT affected the studied index values and the resulting bioassessment classification, except for the IASPT index. Loss of the entire LAT pool reduced the ecological status for 78% of the samples for the IBMWP index. Changing took place in 41% of the samples when considering the STAR-ICM index. Relevant changes were detected even when considering loss of 50% of the LAT, especially with the IBMWP index. Similar values and patterns were obtained in each considered quality class and river type. Our results provide useful information about controversial taxa and stress the significance of LAT in river biomonitoring. Excluding LAT is discouraged, although different responses according to the considered index were detected. The IBMWP index always obtained lower values (coupled mainly with an underestimation of ecological classes), while STAR-ICMi and, especially the IASPT index, were less affected by excluding LAT. Paying special attention to all the protocol application stages is recommended, with emphasis placed when using the IBMWP index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenge for universities in developing countries of Latin America is to provide quality education and to promote the development of the digital competencies necessary for an active citizenship. Nevertheless, the use of technology and open educational resources (OER) promote greater efficiency and social penetration. The objective of this research is to analyze how the attributes of innovation develop when OER are integrated with learning environments that promote digital skills. Case study and data recollection were applied to the interview, the log, the observation, and the document analysis. Results indicated that a combination of innovation attributes generates a change in: a) educational methodology, b) technological tools and ways to present its contents, and c) the way the teacher thinks and students act. The use of innovative elements allowed subjects to overcome space and time barriers, setting the foundation for the development of blended learning in the institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We describe an exemplary case of congestive heart failure (CHF) symptoms controlled with milrinone. We also analyze the benefits and risks of milrinone administration in an unmonitored setting.Method: We describe the case of a patient with refractory leukemia and end-stage CHF who developed severe dyspnea after discontinuation of milrinone. At that point, despite starting opioids, she had been severely dyspneic and anxious, requiring admission to the palliative care unit (PCU) for symptom control. After negotiation with hospital administrators, milrinone was administered in an unmonitored setting such as the PCU. A multidisciplinary team approach was also provided.Results: Milrinone produced a dramatic improvement in the patient's symptom scores and performance status. The patient was eventually discharged to home hospice on a milrinone infusion with excellent symptom control.Significance Of Results: This case suggests that milrinone may be of benefit for short-term inpatient administration for dyspnea management, even in unmonitored settings and consequently during hospice in do-not-resuscitate (DNR) patients. This strategy may reduce costs and readmissions to the hospital related to end-stage CHF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]