bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memória e aprendizagem de L2
Authors: Mello Aline , Grzechota Jeize de Fátima Batista , Zimmer Márcia
Published: June 2022

O processo de aquisição do conhecimento envolve percepção, atenção, memória e ação e nem sempre acontece de forma consciente. A aquisição de conhecimento pressupõe um processo de conversão em que tudo aquilo que é captado pelo aprendiz é decodificado de acordo com sua identidade e suas experiências. Com base nesse conceito, o presente trabalho tem por objetivo fazer um apanhado teórico sobre a relação entre o construto memória e aprendizagem de uma língua estrangeira ou adicional. Esse estudo apresenta teorias relacionadas à produção em língua estrangeira, à automatização do conhecimento, ao processamento de informações e à transferência interlinguística, e conta com aporte teórico da ciência cognitiva com foco na abordagem conexionista.
A sequência didática e a metacognição como estratégia para leitura à distância em Língua Portuguesa
Authors: Dos Santos Valdenildo , Loroza Claudia Valéria Gonçalves
Published: June 2022

Este artigo apresenta reflexões sobre a prática pedagógica no uso de atividades inspiradas em sequências didáticas, conforme modelo proposto por Schneuwly e Dolz (2004), em que o gênero discursivo atua como ferramenta metacognitiva no trabalho com práticas de leitura e escrita em contexto escolar. São apresentadas observações sobre o uso da metacognição no processo de aprendizagem no ensino a distância a partir de acompanhamento de alunos do Centro de Ensino de Jovens e Adultos (CEJA) – RJ, modalidade semipresencial, por meio de questionário e observação de seu comportamento em torno da leitura de textos antes e após a sequência de atividades metacognitivas em que executaram as tarefas propostas. O trabalho leva à constatação de que a autorregulação é fator determinante no desenvolvimento de uma postura autônoma na administração da própria aprendizagem.
Gestão e cotidiano escolar: espaço de reflexão?
Authors: Martins Elcimar Simão , Costa Elisangela André da Silva , Leite Maria Cleide da Silva Ribeiro
Published: June 2022

A reflexão sobre a prática, sustentada em referenciais teóricos como Schön (1992) e Alarcão (2011), é capaz de colaborar com o desvelamento das contradições existentes no cotidiano, que dicotomizam o pensar e o agir, assim como os processos e os produtos. Dentro desse contexto surgiu o presente estudo que objetiva investigar uma experiência de gestão na construção de uma escola reflexiva, evidenciando os desafios presentes nesse processo. A estratégia de aproximação com a realidade foi a entrevista reflexiva com uma das gestoras. Os resultados apontam que a vivência da reflexão junto ao coletivo escolar é um desafio que demanda preparo, diálogo e respeito às diferenças, podendo ser considerada como uma experiência de desenvolvimento profissional e pessoal para os sujeitos e de desenvolvimento institucional para a escola.
INTERAÇÕES NA SALA DE AULA:
Authors: Lima Eliane Soares de
Published: June 2022

Em face do discurso de mudança fortalecido pela publicação dos últimos referenciais curriculares nacionais, propompos discutir a transformação imposta à prática dos professores do ensino básico. O objetivo é o de apresentar uma racionalização da atividade docente concebida em sua dimensão narrativa, ou seja, como ação que constrói no seu desenrolar a significação de uma situação regida por códigos de conduta, normas e procedimentos (pré-)estabelecidos. Para isso, examinaremos as mudanças ocorridas na dinâmica de funcionamento narrativo da prática didático-pedagógica tradicional a esta que se tem chamado de renovada. Espera-se, assim, poder colaborar de alguma maneira com a necessidade de esclarecimento e divulgação, entre os professores, sobre essa problemática.
DISCUSSÃO DE GRUPO ALIADA A TECNOLOGIA DIGITAL DE INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO NO PROCESSO DE DESENVOLVIMENTO DA ESCRITA
Authors: Gitahy Raquel Rosan Christino , FERNANDEZ ARTEMISA PIAI SILVA DE , Terçariol Adriana Aparecida de Lima
Published: June 2022

O presente artigo objetiva investigar como a discussão de grupo, aliada a tecnologia digital da informação e comunicação, influi no desenvolvimento da produção de textos dissertativos. Foram participantes da pesquisa um grupo de 06 (seis) estudantes de um curso particular de redação, com idades entre 18 (dezoito) e 25 (vinte e cinco) anos. Os dados foram coletados combinando-se a observação da discussão em grupo e análise documental de textos dissertativos produzidos. Conclui-se que o grupo de discussão auxiliou na aprendizagem colaborativa e no desenvolvimento do pensamento crítico, possibilitando com que o aluno mostrasse conhecimento em seu texto escrito sobre o que estava dizendo; a quem estava dizendo; as estratégias de dizer e se colocasse como autor do texto.
HILDEGARDA DE BINGEN E O PODER FEMININO NO SÉCULO XII:
Authors: Jimenez Michele de Oliveira , Oliveira Terezinha
Published: June 2022

Hildegarda de Bingen (1098-1179) viveu e escreveu durante um período de grandes transformações na sociedade medieval: surgimento das cidades e início do comércio, cruzadas, combate às heresias dos cátaros e crescimento das ordens religiosas. Nesse sentido, este artigo pretende demonstrar como as virtudes obediência e humildade foram utilizadas para justificar a manutenção da ordem social no século XII, de acordo com a obra Scivias de Hildegarda de Bingen. Para tanto, o trabalho apresentará uma pequena biografia de Hildegarda de Bingen, uma breve contextualização do século XII, descrição das virtudes obediência e humildade, e como foram utilizadas para justificar as hierarquias sociais entre os homens, de forma a garantir a manutenção da ordem social no século XII.
Greve dos professores do estado de São Paulo: efeitos de (im)parcialidade em manchetes de dois jornais paulistas
Authors: Mareco Raquel Tiemi Masuda , Passetti Maria Célia Cortez
Published: June 2022

A partir de um corpus extraído de manchetes jornalísticas da Folha Online e do Estadão Online, sobre a greve dos professores do estado de São Paulo, procuramos verificar se os efeitos de sentido produzidos nessas manchetes apontam para algum tipo de filiação a posicionamentos (favoráveis ou contrários) em relação ao fato noticiado. A análise tem como aporte teórico a Análise do Discurso de linha francesa e a teoria da comunicação. Ambos os jornais produziram efeitos de parcialidade, por meio do agendamento e do enquadramento das manchetes, porém, a Folha Online se mostrou mais filiada a um posicionamento contrário à greve, enquanto o Estadão Online demonstrou maior filiação a um posicionamento favorável.
v. 3, n. 4 (2011)
Authors: Mezzomo Frank Antônio
Published: June 2022

Expediente e Sumário
O ritual cotidiano de uma professora de sociologia do Ensino Médio e sua performance em sala de aula
Authors: Santos Renata Oliveira dos
Published: June 2022

O presente artigo tem por objetivo relacionar os conceitos de ritual e performance com a atuação diária de uma professora de sociologia, do Ensino Médio, em sala de aula. Refletir sobre a ação específica desse tipo de profissional tanto dentro quanto fora do ambiente escolar, revela como um ato corriqueiro como o de preparar aula realizado por muitos professores, pode ser compreendido como um ritual, assim como, sua exposição final uma performance. Além disso, ao entender essa atuação torna-se possível também compreender como a formação acadêmica do professor muitas vezes influencia na maneira como este percebe a educação e a sala de aula.
CREB Ameliorates Osteoarthritis Progression Through Regulating Chondrocytes Autophagy via the miR-373/METTL3/TFEB Axis
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Li Xilei , Li Yusheng , Yang Xucheng , Liao Runzhi , Wang Haoyi , Yang Junxiao
Published: June 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by articular cartilage degradation. Dysregulated autophagy is a major cause of OA. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we found that the expression of element-binding protein (CREB) was downregulated in both cartilage tissues of OA patients and mouse OA model. In tert-butyl hydroperoxide solution-treated chondrocytes, increased apoptosis and autophagic blockage were attenuated by CREB overexpression. Mechanically, MiR-373 directly targeted the 3′UTR of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) and led to its downregulation. METTL3 epigenetically suppressed TFEB. The upregulation of miR-373 by CREB overexpression induced the release of TFEB from METTL3 and restored the autophagy activity of chondrocytes. Taken together, our study showed that CREB alleviates OA injury through regulating the expression of miR-373, which directly targeted METTL3, and finally relieved TFEB from METTL3-mediated epigenetic suppression. The CREB/miR-373/METTL3/TFEB axis may be used as a potential target for the treatment of OA.
New Role for Photoexcited Na2 Eosin Y via the Direct Hydrogen Atom Transfer Process in Photochemical Visible-Light-Induced Synthesis of 2-Amino-4H-Chromene Scaffolds Under Air Atmosphere
Authors: Mohamadpour Farzaneh
Published: June 2022

The Knoevenagel–Michael cyclocondensation of malononitrile, aryl aldehydes, and resorcinol was used as a multicomponent green tandem strategy for the metal-free synthesis of 2-amino-4H-chromene scaffolds. Through a visible-light-induced process, the photo-excited state functions derived from Na2 eosin Y were used as direct hydrogen atom transfer catalysts in aqueous ethanol at ambient temperature. The purpose of this study was to examine the further use of an organic dye that does not contain metal and is inexpensive and commercially available. Na2 eosin Y is synthesized by photochemical means using the least amount of catalyst, which results in excellent yields, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness, high atom economy, time-saving features, and ease of operation. As a result, some properties of green and sustainable chemistry are met. This kind of cyclization can be performed on a gram scale, indicating the potential utility of this reaction in industry.
A Sandwich-Type Electrochemical Immunosensor Using Antibody-Conjugated Pt-Doped CdTe QDs as Enzyme-Free Labels for Sensitive HER2 Detection Based on a Magnetic Framework
Authors: Ehzari Hosna , Safari Meysam
Published: June 2022

Tumor markers are highly sensitive and play an important role in the early diagnosis of cancer. We developed an electrochemical sandwich-type immunosensor that detects human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Magnetic framework (Fe3O4@ TMU-24) and AuNPs (Fe3O4@ TMU-24 -AuNPs) are utilized in this sensing platform. In addition to their high specific surface area and excellent biocompatibility, Fe3O4@ TMU-24-AuNPs nanocomposites exhibited excellent electrocatalytic properties. The primary antibody of HER2 (Ab1) was immobilized on the surface of the Fe3O4@ TMU-24-AuNPs. In this sensing method, palatine doped to CdTe QDs (Pt: CdTe QDs) is utilized as a novel labeling signal biomolecule (secondary antibodies). Pt: CdTe QDs own good biocompatibility and excellent catalytic performance. The amperometric technique was used to achieve the quantitative determination of HER2 by using a sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor. Under the optimum conditions, the dependency of the current signal and HER2 concentration showed a linear region from 1 pg ml−1–100 ng ml−1 with 0.175 pg ml−1 as the limit of detection. This biosensing device also showed long stability and good reproducibility, which can be used for the quantitative assay of HER2.
Approaches to Improve the Quantitation of Oxytocin in Human Serum by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hering Anke , Jieu Beverly , Jones Alun , Muttenthaler Markus
Published: June 2022

The neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) regulates several peripheral and central functions and is a molecule of interest in psychiatric diseases such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety and depression. The study of OT in human serum samples is however hampered by inconsistent sample preparation and analysis as well as low endogenous blood concentration (1–10 pM). This results in varying reports on OT’s blood levels and interpretation of OT’s role in different (patho)physiological states. Quantitative mass spectrometry (MS) is a highly promising technology to address this problem but still requires large sample volumes to achieve adequate sensitivity and reliability for the quantitation of compounds at low concentrations. We therefore systematically evaluated sample preparation methods for MS to achieve a reliable sample preparation protocol with good peptide recovery, minimal matrix effects and good overall method efficiency in line with FDA guidelines for bioanalytic method development and validation. Additionally, we investigated a strategy to improve the ionization efficiency of OT by adding charged and/or hydrophobic moieties to OT to improve the lower limit of quantitation. Optimized sample preparation in combination with OT modification with a quaternary pyridinium ion improved the sensitivity of OT by ∼40-fold on a tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (API4000 QTRAP), resulting in a lower limit of quantitation of 5 pM in water (linear range 5 pM – 1 mM) and 2 nM in human serum (linear range 2 nM – 1 mM) compared to 200 pM in water and 86 nM in serum with unmodified OT. This approach and protocol provide a solid foundation towards method development for OT quantitation using MS, which should be of high value for fundamental research as well as clinical monitoring of OT upon drug treatments.
Reservoir Characteristics and Resource Potential Analysis of Transitional Shale Gas in Southern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Shan Changan , Ye Congchen , Zhang Zhao , Zou Chen , He Fangyu , Zhang Hanbing , Mei Jue , Yin Kaigui , Shi Yakun , Li Boshuo , Zhang Fengqi , Diao Yifan
Published: June 2022

Natural gas is a clean and efficient energy source. Shale gas, one of the unconventional natural gases, is becoming an indispensable part of natural gas. Compared with marine facies shale gas, which has large-scale exploitation, marine and continental transitional facies shale gas have greater development potential. It could be the new direction of development in the future. In this article, the basic geological characteristics, sedimentary environment, and reservoir characteristics of organic-rich transitional facies shale in the southern Sichuan basin are analyzed by lithologic characteristics, chemical element analysis, reservoir space, gas bearing characteristics, and so on and are compared with domestic and abroad transitional shale gas. The results show that the sedimentary period of transitional shale of Upper Permian Leping Formation has a high paleoproductivity level and deposition rate favorable for the accumulation of organic matter in southern Sichuan basin. It was warm and humid paleoclimatic by Sr, V, Cr, Ni, Co, and other trace elements analysis. According to the experimental test analysis of reservoir characteristics, the organic matter is mainly type Ⅲ kerogen, and the thermal evolution degree is mainly overmature in the reservoir. The reservoir space is mainly of microfractures and micropores. The main types of micropore development are intergranular pore, intragranular pore, and organic pore. Compared with other shale gas regions that form industrial airflow, the study region with large thickness, highly brittle mineral content, high level of organic carbon content, and excellent gas-bearing characteristics, it has favorable conditions for shale gas accumulation. The southern Sichuan basin could be the key area for breakthroughs in the exploration and development of transitional shale gas in the next step.
Building Student Entrepreneurship Activities Through the Synergy of the University Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
Authors: Astuty Eriana , Yustian Okky Rizkia , Ratnapuri Chyntia Ika
Published: June 2022

Student entrepreneurship activities can be a driving force for the emergence of young entrepreneurs. Therefore, universities are making efforts to equip their students with the requisite entrepreneurial knowledge and skills for a conducive university entrepreneurial ecosystem. The present study employs a quantitative approach and survey-type research. The research method uses the explanatory method with research objects, including the internal environment of the institution, external environmental support, student entrepreneurial orientation, student entrepreneurial intentions, and student entrepreneurial activities. Data were collected through online questionnaires, which were randomly distributed to 456 students of 7 state universities and 11 private universities across Java and Sumatra, Indonesia. Descriptive and multivariate data analyses with a structural equation model was carried out using the IBM SPSS Amos 20.0 software. The study has propounded a research novelty called Entrepreneurship Eclectic Education, which combines several techniques, designs, and methods that have been proven valid, reliable, and feasible for adoption in universities. Such novelty is likely to trigger student performance in their entrepreneurial activities in the university's entrepreneurial ecosystem. This is realized through a synergy between the internal and external environment of the institution that can foster an entrepreneurial orientation and then trigger students' entrepreneurial intentions, which leads to the creation of student entrepreneurial activities. This study offers valuable recommendations for higher education decision-makers to re-orient the entrepreneurship curriculum and create a conducive university entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Perceived Stress, Individual Psychological Resources, and Social Resources Among Computer Science Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Höhne Elisabeth , Fekete Sándor P. , Schild Jonas , Zander Lysann
Published: June 2022

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, university students worldwide have experienced drastic changes in their academic and social lives, with the rapid shift to online courses and contact restrictions being reported among the major stressors. In the present study, we aimed at examining students’ perceived stress over the course of the pandemic as well as individual psychological and social coping resources within the theoretical framework of the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping in the specific group of STEM students. In four cross-sectional studies with a total of 496 computer science students in Germany, we found that students reported significantly higher levels of perceived stress at both measurement time points in the second pandemic semester (October/November 2020; January/February 2021) as compared to the beginning of the first (April/May 2020), indicating that students rather became sensitized to the constant pandemic-related stress exposure than habituating to the “new normal”. Regarding students’ coping resources in the higher education context, we found that both high (a) academic self-efficacy and (b) academic online self-efficacy as well as low (c) perceived social and academic exclusion among fellow students significantly predicted lower levels of students’ (d) belonging uncertainty to their study program, which, in turn, predicted lower perceived stress at the beginning of the first pandemic semester. At the beginning of the second pandemic semester, we found that belonging uncertainty still significantly mediated the relationship between students’ academic self-efficacy and perceived stress. Students’ academic online self-efficacy, however, no longer predicted their uncertainty about belonging, but instead had a direct buffering effect on their perceived stress. Students’ perceived social and academic exclusion among fellow students only marginally predicted their belonging uncertainty and no longer predicted their perceived stress 6 months into the pandemic. We discuss the need and importance of assessing and monitoring students’ stress levels as well as faculty interventions to strengthen students’ individual psychological and social coping resources in light of the still ongoing pandemic.
The Inclusion of Children on the Autism Spectrum in the Design of Learning Technologies: A Small-Scale Exploration of Adults’ Perspectives
Authors: Boyle Bryan , Arnedillo-Sanchez Inmaculada
Published: June 2022

This research explores the inclusion of children on the autism spectrum in the design of educational technology from the perspectives of adult co-designers. A group of five non-verbal children with a diagnosis of autism participated in a series of four design workshops over the course of 6 weeks. Using a participatory design approach, a small team of three teachers and two technology developers worked alongside the children to design a language development and literacy app for use in a special education classroom. The outcome of this process was a stand-alone education app that comprised many of the contributions made by children during the workshops. The inclusion of children with autism in technology design ensures the end-product reflects their education needs and requirements. Using a qualitative approach, this small-scale study sought to examine the participation of children with autism through the various stages of the design process from the perspectives of their teachers and technology designers. Data were collected through individual interviews and a focus group with teachers and technology designers. Three major themes emerged from thematic analysis: (1) valuing contribution; (2) the challenge of listening; and (3) ownership in outcome. Emerging subthemes highlight challenges described by teachers and designers in facilitating and maintaining meaningful participation in design activities and their efforts to address these. Findings emphasise the value of participation while questioning participatory practices for specific phases of design. The study explores the challenges of equalising power between adults and children with autism in participatory design projects. It uncovers tension between the desire to ensure the authentic participation of children with autism where communication and engagement is significantly compromised by the complexity of their disability. The small number of participants and the modest scope of this design project limit the generalisability of the findings. However, it points to the value of recognising children’s contributions and the importance of striving to incorporate these in the final design artefact.
Intraoperative Management of the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Transected or Invaded by Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Masuoka Hiroo , Miyauchi Akira
Published: June 2022

Thyroid cancer often invades the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), causing vocal cord paralysis. In such patients, the invaded portion of the RLN usually needs to be resected through curative surgery. We attempt to preserve the nerve by performing sharp dissection in such cases. During nerve dissection, an intraoperative nerve monitoring system helps identify the course of the RLN in the fibrous tissue around the tumor or even within the tumor, and also helps evaluate the nerve integrity. Because of extensive dissection, the preserved RLN may become much thinner than its original thickness. We refer to this procedure as “partial layer resection” of the RLN. In our cases, although the dissected RLNs became thinner, we found that vocal cord function recovered in most patients. If the RLN is fully involved by thyroid cancer or response of the vocal cord against electric stimulation to the RLN is lost, we resect the portion of the RLN together with the tumor and repair it using one of the reconstruction techniques. When a unilateral RLN is resected, the vocal cord on that side is paralyzed. Symptoms include hoarseness, mis-swallowing, and short phonation. RLN reconstruction using one of the reconstruction techniques leads to the recovery of phonatory and swallowing function, although the normal motion of the vocal cord on the side of the anastomosis is not restored. We used direct anastomosis, free nerve grafting, ansa cervicalis-RLN anastomosis, and vagus-RLN anastomosis to reconstruct the RLN. Thyroid cancer often invades the RLN near the Berry’s ligament. In such patients, surgeons might assume that reconstruction of the RLN may not be possible because the peripheral stump of the RLN cannot be observed. However, if we divide the inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscles along the lateral edge of the thyroid cartilage, the peripheral RLN can be identified, and nerve reconstruction can be performed. We refer to this procedure as “laryngeal approach”.In summary, of the patients with thyroid cancer who required resection of the RLN, RLN reconstruction led to the recovery of phonatory function. We suggest that all thyroid surgeons familiarize themselves with these reconstruction techniques.
Effects of Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in Maternal Body on Infants
Authors: Qi Shi-Yu , Xu Xue-Ling , Ma Wen-Zhi , Deng Shou-Long , Lian Zheng-Xing , Yu Kun
Published: June 2022

There are many organochlorine pollutants in the environment, which can be directly or indirectly exposed to by mothers, and as estrogen endocrine disruptors can cause damage to the lactation capacity of the mammary gland. In addition, because breast milk contains a lot of nutrients, it is the most important food source for new-born babies. If mothers are exposed to organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), the lipophilic organochlorine contaminants can accumulate in breast milk fat and be passed to the infant through breast milk. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate organochlorine contaminants in human milk to estimate the health risks of these contaminants to breastfed infants. In addition, toxic substances in the mother can also be passed to the fetus through the placenta, which is also something we need to pay attention to. This article introduces several types of OCPs, such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), methoxychlor (MXC), hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), endosulfan, chlordane, heptachlorand and hexachlorobenzene (HCB), mainly expounds their effects on women’s lactation ability and infant health, and provides reference for maternal and infant health. In addition, some measures and methods for the control of organochlorine pollutants are also described here.
GPHB5 Is a Biomarker in Women With Metabolic Syndrome: Results From Cross-Sectional and Intervention Studies
Authors: Xiang Ting , Zhang Siliang , Li Qinge , Li Ling , Liu Hua , Chen Chen , Yang Gangyi , Yang Mengliu
Published: June 2022

Background

Animal studies have found that GPHB5 has a similar effect on system metabolism as TSH. However, the relationship between GPHB5 and metabolic diseases remains unknown. This study investigates the relationship between GPHB5 and MetS in young women.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis was undertaken to explore the relationship between GPHB5 and metabolic-related genes and signaling pathways. EHC and OGTT were performed on all individuals. Lipid-infusion, physical activity, and cold-exposure tests were performed on healthy individuals. Serum GPHB5 concentrations were measured by an ELISA kit.

Results

PPI network showed that 11 genes interacted with GPHB5, in which POMC and KISS1R were involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. GO analysis showed 56 pathways for BP and 16 pathways for MF, in which OPRM1 and MCR families were related to energy metabolism. KEGG analysis found that GPHB5 is associated with lipolysis and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathways. The levels of circulating GPHB5 were significantly increased, while serum adiponectin levels were lower in MetS women compared with healthy women. Obese/overweight individuals had lower adiponectin levels and higher GPHB5 levels. Circulating GPHB5 levels were positively correlated with BMI, WHR, blood pressure, FBG, 2 h-BG, HbA1c, FIns, 2h-Ins, LDL-C, FFA, HOMA-IR, and AUCg, etc. but negatively correlated with HDL-C, adiponectin, and M-values. Serum GPHB5 levels did not change significantly during the OGTT, EHC, and lipid infusion. Physical activity and cold-exposure tests did not lead to changes in GPHB5 levels. GLP-1RA treatment resulted in a significant decrease in serum GPHB5 levels.

Conclusions

GPHB5 may be a biomarker for MetS.
Advanced Paternal Age and Future Generations
Authors: Chan Peter T. K. , Robaire Bernard
Published: June 2022

Paternal age at conception has been increasing. In this review, we first present the results from the major mammalian animal models used to establish that increasing paternal age does affect progeny outcome. These models provide several major advantages including the possibility to assess multi- transgenerational effects of paternal age on progeny in a relatively short time window. We then present the clinical observations relating advanced paternal age to fertility and effects on offspring with respect to perinatal health, cancer risk, genetic diseases, and neurodevelopmental effects. An overview of the potential mechanism operating in altering germ cells in advanced age is presented. This is followed by an analysis of the current state of management of reproductive risks associated with advanced paternal age. The numerous challenges associated with developing effective, practical strategies to mitigate the impact of advanced paternal age are outlined along with an approach on how to move forward with this important clinical quandary.
Hypothalamic Estrogen Signaling and Adipose Tissue Metabolism in Energy Homeostasis
Authors: Torres Irizarry Valeria C. , Jiang Yuwei , He Yanlin , Xu Pingwen
Published: June 2022

Obesity has become a global epidemic, and it is a major risk factor for other metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic disease. Accumulating evidence indicates that there is sex-specific metabolic protection and disease susceptibility. For instance, in both clinical and experimental studies, males are more likely to develop obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. In line with this, males tend to have more visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) and less brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenic activity, both leading to an increased incidence of metabolic disorders. This female-specific fat distribution is partially mediated by sex hormone estrogens. Specifically, hypothalamic estrogen signaling plays a vital role in regulating WAT distribution, WAT beiging, and BAT thermogenesis. These regulatory effects on adipose tissue metabolism are primarily mediated by the activation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in neurons, which interacts with hormones and adipokines such as leptin, ghrelin, and insulin. This review discusses the contribution of adipose tissue dysfunction to obesity and the role of hypothalamic estrogen signaling in preventing metabolic diseases with a particular focus on the VMH, the central regulator of energy expenditure and glucose homeostasis.
Growth Hormone Stimulation Testing: To Test or Not to Test? That Is One of the Questions
Authors: Yau Mabel , Rapaport Robert
Published: June 2022

The evaluation of children with short stature includes monitoring over a prolonged period to establish a growth pattern as well as the exclusion of chronic medical conditions that affect growth. After a period of monitoring, evaluation, and screening, growth hormone stimulation testing is considered when the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is entertained. Though flawed, growth hormone stimulation tests remain part of the comprehensive evaluation of growth and are essential for the diagnosis of growth hormone (GH) deficiency. Variables including testing length, growth hormone assay and diagnostic cut off affect results. Beyond the intrinsic issues of testing, results of GH stimulation testing can be influenced by patient characteristics. Various factors including age, gender, puberty, nutritional status and body weight modulate the secretion of GH.
Prevention and Treatment of Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis in Adults: Consensus Recommendations From the Belgian Bone Club
Authors: Laurent Michaël R. , Goemaere Stefan , Verroken Charlotte , Bergmann Pierre , Body Jean-Jacques , Bruyère Olivier , Cavalier Etienne , Rozenberg Serge , Lapauw Bruno , Gielen Evelien
Published: June 2022

Glucocorticoids are effective immunomodulatory drugs used for many inflammatory disorders as well as in transplant recipients. However, both iatrogenic and endogenous glucocorticoid excess are also associated with several side effects including an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is a common secondary cause of osteoporosis in adults. Despite availability of clear evidence and international guidelines for the prevention of GIOP, a large treatment gap remains. In this narrative review, the Belgian Bone Club (BBC) updates its 2006 consensus recommendations for the prevention and treatment of GIOP in adults. The pathophysiology of GIOP is multifactorial. The BBC strongly advises non-pharmacological measures including physical exercise, smoking cessation and avoidance of alcohol abuse in all adults at risk for osteoporosis. Glucocorticoids are associated with impaired intestinal calcium absorption; the BBC therefore strongly recommend sufficient calcium intake and avoidance of vitamin D deficiency. We recommend assessment of fracture risk, taking age, sex, menopausal status, prior fractures, glucocorticoid dose, other clinical risk factors and bone mineral density into account. Placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy of alendronate, risedronate, zoledronate, denosumab and teriparatide in GIOP. We suggest monitoring by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and vertebral fracture identification one year after glucocorticoid initiation. The trabecular bone score might be considered during DXA monitoring. Extended femur scans might be considered at the time of DXA imaging in glucocorticoid users on long-term (≥ 3 years) antiresorptive therapy. Bone turnover markers may be considered for monitoring treatment with anti-resorptive or osteoanabolic drugs in GIOP. Although the pathophysiology of solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation-induced osteoporosis extends beyond GIOP alone, the BBC recommends similar evaluation, prevention, treatment and follow-up principles in these patients. Efforts to close the treatment gap in GIOP and implement available effective fracture prevention strategies into clinical practice in primary, secondary and tertiary care are urgently needed.
Distributed Economic Dispatch Based on Finite-Time Double-Consensus Algorithm of Integrated Energy System
Authors: Yang Jun , Du Jianhai
Published: June 2022

To reduce the operating cost and enhance the energy utilization efficiency of the integrated energy system (IES), an economic dispatch algorithm is proposed based on finite-time double-consensus. First, an economic dispatch model of IES under two modes of operation, islanded and grid-connected, is constructed considering energy transmission losses. After that, the optimal improved incremental cost and power output allocation of the IES can be found out in finite time. The proposed algorithm contains two finite-time consistency protocols simultaneously that can solve the optimal values of the incremental cost of electricity and heat of integrated energy system, solving the strong coupling problem of multi-energy systems. The proposed algorithm not only has a faster convergence rate but also enables switching freely between the two operation modes. In addition, a distributed method for quickly discovering the total system power mismatch is proposed in the process of algorithm solving. The finite-time convergence of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated. Finally, the IES simulation based on the IEEE 30-node power system and the Bali 32-node thermal system is established. The analysis of the simulation results shows that the algorithm proposed in this paper is effective.
Climate Change Affects Reproductive Phenology in Lianas of Australia’s Wet Tropics
Authors: Vogado Nara O. , Engert Jayden E. , Linde Tore L. , Campbell Mason J. , Laurance William F. , Liddell Michael J.
Published: June 2022

Lianas are increasing in abundance in many tropical forests. This increase can alter forest structure and decrease both carbon storage and tree diversityviaantagonistic relationships between lianas and their host trees. Climate change is postulated as an underlying driver of increasing liana abundances,viaincreases in dry-season length, forest-disturbance events, and atmospheric CO2concentrations; all factors thought to favour lianas. However, the impact of climate change on liana reproductive phenology, an underlying determinant of liana abundance, has been little studied, particularly outside of Neotropical forests. Over a 15-year period (2000–2014), we examined the phenological patterns of a liana community in intact rainforests of the Wet Tropics bioregion of Australia; a World Heritage Area and hotspot of floral diversity. Specifically, we assessed (1) flowering and fruiting patterns of liana species; (2) potential climate drivers of flowering and fruiting activity; and (3) the influence of El Niño-related climatic disturbances on liana phenology. We found that flowering and fruiting of the studied liana species increased over time. Liana reproduction, moreover, rose in apparent response to higher temperatures and reduced rainfall. Finally, we found flowering and fruiting of the liana species increased following El Niño events. These results suggest that liana reproduction and abundance are likely to increase under predicted future climate regimes, with potentially important impacts on the survival, growth, and reproduction of resident trees and thus the overall health of Australian tropical rainforests.
Use of an Edaphic Microarthropod Index for Monitoring Wildfire Impact on Soil in Mediterranean Pine Forests
Authors: Lisa Chiara , Paffetti Donatella , Marchi Enrico , Nocentini Susanna , Travaglini Davide
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of the Biological Soil Quality index (QBS-ar index) for monitoring the impact of wildfires on Mediterranean pine forests soils. The QBS-ar is a simplified eco-morphological index, based on edaphic microarthropods. We analyzed the QBS-ar values of pine stands burned one or two times and at different time spans from fire (from 10 days to 11 years after fire), in comparison to the unburned control area. Effect of fire on the biological soil quality evaluated with QBS-ar index was analyzed using univariate and multivariate techniques. Our results showed a significant variation of QBS-ar values between burned areas and those never burned. The impact of fire on the QBS-ar index and the microarthropod community was higher in the areas burned twice. A relevant average dissimilarity of taxonomic groups was found between the control area and the area burned twice, but also between the control area and the one observed 3 months after the fire. The taxa that contributed more to the dissimilarity were Pseudoscorpiones and Diplopoda, which reduced their presence after fire. Our study shows that the QBS-ar index is a dependable method for monitoring the impact of fire on soil quality in forest ecosystems and indicates that edaphic microarthropods communities in these Mediterranean pine forests return to the before fire condition 11 years after fire. The QBS-ar index could therefore be a useful tool for monitoring forest ecosystem rehabilitation after fire.
Application of Genetic, Genomic and Biological Pathways in Improvement of Swine Feed Efficiency
Authors: Davoudi Pourya , Do Duy Ngoc , Colombo Stefanie M. , Rathgeber Bruce , Miar Younes
Published: June 2022

Despite the significant improvement of feed efficiency (FE) in pigs over the past decades, feed costs remain a major challenge for producers profitability. Improving FE is a top priority for the global swine industry. A deeper understanding of the biology underlying FE is crucial for making progress in genetic improvement of FE traits. This review comprehensively discusses the topics related to the FE in pigs including: measurements, genetics, genomics, biological pathways and the advanced technologies and methods involved in FE improvement. We first provide an update of heritability for different FE indicators and then characterize the correlations of FE traits with other economically important traits. Moreover, we present the quantitative trait loci (QTL) and possible candidate genes associated with FE in pigs and outline the most important biological pathways related to the FE traits in pigs. Finally, we present possible ways to improve FE in swine including the implementation of genomic selection, new technologies for measuring the FE traits, and the potential use of genome editing and omics technologies.
A Novel Signature of Necroptosis-Associated Genes as a Potential Prognostic Tool for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Jing , Huo Hongqi , Lu Rong
Published: June 2022

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) arises from squamous cells in the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx. Although HNSCC is sensitive to radiotherapy, patient prognosis is poor. Necroptosis is a novel programmed form of necrotic cell death. The prognostic value of necroptosis-associated gene expression in HNSCC has not been explored.

Material and Methods: We downloaded mRNA expression data of HNSCC patients from TCGA databases and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, and compared gene expression between tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and necroptosis-related prognostic genes. A model with necroptosis-related genes was established to predict patient prognosis via LASSO method and Kaplan-Meier analysis. GSE65858 data set (n = 270) from GEO was used to verify the model’s predictive ability. Gene set enrichment analyses, immune microenvironment analysis, principal component analysis, and anti-tumor compound IC50 prediction were also performed.

Results: We identified 49 DEGs and found 10 DEGs were associated with patient survival (p < 0.05). A risk model of 6-gene signature was constructed using the TCGA training data set and further validated with the GEO data set. Patients in the low-risk group survived longer than those in the high-risk group (p < 0.05) in the GEO validation sets. Functional analysis showed the two patient groups were associated with distinct immunity conditions and IC50.

Conclusion: We constructed a prognostic model with 6 necroptosis-associated genes for HNSCC. The model has potential usage to guide treatment because survival was different between the two groups.
Potentiality of Exosomal Proteins as Novel Cancer Biomarkers for Liquid Biopsy
Authors: Hu Chunmiao , Jiang Wei , Lv Mingjin , Fan Shuhao , Lu Yujia , Wu Qingjun , Pi Jiang
Published: June 2022

Liquid biopsy has been rapidly developed in recent years due to its advantages of non-invasiveness and real-time sampling in cancer prognosis and diagnosis. Exosomes are nanosized extracellular vesicles secreted by all types of cells and abundantly distributed in all types of body fluid, carrying diverse cargos including proteins, DNA, and RNA, which transmit regulatory signals to recipient cells. Among the cargos, exosomal proteins have always been used as immunoaffinity binding targets for exosome isolation. Increasing evidence about the function of tumor-derived exosomes and their proteins is found to be massively associated with tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis in recent years. Therefore, exosomal proteins and some nucleic acids, such as miRNA, can be used not only as targets for exosome isolation but also as potential diagnostic markers in cancer research, especially for liquid biopsy. This review will discuss the existing protein-based methods for exosome isolation and characterization that are more appropriate for clinical use based on current knowledge of the exosomal biogenesis and function. Additionally, the recent studies for the use of exosomal proteins as cancer biomarkers are also discussed and summarized, which might contribute to the development of exosomal proteins as novel diagnostic tools for liquid biopsy.
Attenuated Duck Hepatitis A Virus Infection Is Associated With High mRNA Maintenance in Duckling Liver via m6A Modification
Authors: Wu Liping , Quan Weili , Zhang Yi , Wang Mingshu , Ou Xumin , Mao Sai , Sun Di , Yang Qiao , Wu Ying , Wei Yaxun , Jia Renyong , Chen Shun , Zhu Dekang , Liu Mafeng , Zhao Xinxin , Zhang Shaqiu , Huang Juan , Gao Qun , Tian Bin , Cheng Anchun
Published: June 2022

Host translation is generally modulated by viral infection, including duck hepatitis A virus (DHAV) infection. Previously, we reported that cellular protein synthesis in a cell model of duck embryo fibroblasts is significantly inhibited by DHAV infection but not viral proteins, suggesting that an important viral-host interaction occurs at the translational level. In this study, we aim to further understand the impact of DHAV virulence on cellular N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, which is essential to a wide variety of RNA biological processes, such as mRNA stabilization and translation. Using m6A antibody-based immunoprecipitation, m6A-seq, and LC–MS/MS, we observed that m6A-modified mRNA exists in both virulent and attenuated DHAV-infected duckling livers. Importantly, m6A levels in mRNA were much higher in attenuated DHAV-infected livers compared with virulent DHAV-infected livers, suggesting virulence-dependent regulation of m6A modification. Analysis of modification motifs indicated that GAAGAAG is the most enriched motif. Combined m6A-seq and RNA-seq data analysis indicated a generally positive correlation between m6A and mRNA expression levels in DHAV-infected duckling livers. GO analysis of genes with decreased or increased m6A levels showed that these genes were enriched in various terms, including oxidation–reduction processes and antiviral immune responses. Collectively, our work reveals DHAV virulence-dependent coordination between m6A modification and mRNA expression in duckling livers.
Meta-Analysis of Human Antibodies Against Plasmodium falciparum Variable Surface and Merozoite Stage Antigens
Authors: Takashima Eizo , Kanoi Bernard N. , Nagaoka Hikaru , Morita Masayuki , Hassan Ifra , Palacpac Nirianne M. Q. , Egwang Thomas G. , Horii Toshihiro , Gitaka Jesse , Tsuboi Takafumi
Published: June 2022

Concerted efforts to fight malaria have caused significant reductions in global malaria cases and mortality. Sustaining this will be critical to avoid rebound and outbreaks of seasonal malaria. Identifying predictive attributes that define clinical malaria will be key to guide development of second-generation tools to fight malaria. Broadly reactive antibodies against variable surface antigens that are expressed on the surface of infected erythrocytes and merozoites stage antigens are targets of naturally acquired immunity and prime candidates for anti-malaria therapeutics and vaccines. However, predicting the relationship between the antigen-specific antibodies and protection from clinical malaria remains unresolved. Here, we used new datasets and multiple approaches combined with re-analysis of our previous data to assess the multi-dimensional and complex relationship between antibody responses and clinical malaria outcomes. We observed 22 antigens (17 PfEMP1 domains, 3 RIFIN family members, merozoite surface protein 3 (PF3D7_1035400), and merozoites-associated armadillo repeats protein (PF3D7_1035900) that were selected across three different clinical malaria definitions (1,000/2,500/5,000 parasites/µl plus fever). In addition, Principal Components Analysis (PCA) indicated that the first three components (Dim1, Dim2 and Dim3 with eigenvalues of 306, 48, and 29, respectively) accounted for 66.1% of the total variations seen. Specifically, the Dim1, Dim2 and Dim3 explained 52.8%, 8.2% and 5% of variability, respectively. We further observed a significant relationship between the first component scores and age with antibodies to PfEMP1 domains being the key contributing variables. This is consistent with a recent proposal suggesting that there is an ordered acquisition of antibodies targeting PfEMP1 proteins. Thus, although limited, and further work on the significance of the selected antigens will be required, these approaches may provide insights for identification of drivers of naturally acquired protective immunity as well as guide development of additional tools for malaria elimination and eradication.