bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implantação do sistema de governança na Universidade Federal do Ceará na percepção dos gestores
Authors: Carvalho de Santana Pinho Ruth , Teixeira Brasil Maria de Fátima
Published: January 2021

Este estudo tem o objetivo de analisar a implantação do Sistema Governança na Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC). A instauração da Governança emana de novas práticas que tendem a mudar o foco da gestão, inclusive nas instituições da Administração Pública brasileira, voltando-o para os interesses dos usuários. Esta configura uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa-quantitativa, descritiva quanto aos objetivos, por intermédio de um estudo de caso realizado na UFC. A respeito dos procedimentos técnicos foram utilizadas pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais. No tocante ao instrumento de coleta, utilizou-se o questionário. Foram realizadas análises indutivas e comparativas, bem como estatística multivariada. De forma geral, destaca-se que a Secretaria de Governança constitui fator de sucesso para a Governança na UFC, porquanto é um lócus que pensa e instrumentaliza a governança nessa instituição. Por sua vez, o tamanho e a diversidade da UFC constituem um fator crítico, pois dificultam a implantação de uma cultura de Governança. Conclui-se que a UFC dispõe de todas as condições para o êxito do processo de implantação da Governança, dado o esforço que a sua gestão empreende nesse sentido. Importa destacar o fato de que o elemento-chave está nas pessoas da Instituição. Essas precisam ser formadas, motivadas e envolvidas para que não se tornem antagonistas do processo, de modo que os agentes se achem corresponsáveis pelo êxito da Governança.
THEORETICAL FUNDAMENTALS OF FATTENING CATTLE IN HISTORICAL AND MODERN RETROSPECTION (according to the bibliography of Academician G. Bogdanov)
Authors: Rudenko Yevhen , Kunets Victoria
Published: January 2021

An attempt is made to concentrate this research in the field of the scientific heritage of Academician UAAS G. Bogdanov, due to certain retrospective and prospective reasons. The main scientific research of Bogdanov O. devoted to the development of theoretical bases of animals’ feeding farms, technologies of feed production and use were carried out in the period connected with work at the Research Institute of Animal Husbandry of the Forest-Steppe and Polissya of the USSR (1956–1976, now the Institute of Animal Husbandry NAAS). Developing the theoretical and practical positions of the classics of domestic zootechnical science I.Belgovsky and P. Pshenichny, Academician G. Bogdanov together with the scientific school created by him laid the foundation for the domestic and made a significant contribution to the world science of farm animal feeding and technology production of high quality feed. The creative heritage of the scientist includes patterns of energy, protein, amino acid, mineral, vitamin nutrition of cattle, pigs, sheep; norms and technologies of full-fledged feeding of farm animals; theoretical bases of formation of meat productivity of cattle in ontogenesis and substantiation of breed technologies of intensive beef production in Ukraine. The result long period of work of the scientist and his colleagues was represented in 2012 of the conceptual work "Theory and practice of normalized feeding of cattle". Research in the physiology and biochemistry of ruminants has led to the creation of new concepts for the evaluation of feed protein and protein rationing for highly productive animals, which gave impetus to the development of innovative feed additives based on protected protein and starch. Given the topic of our article, the work of the scientist, dedicated to the feeding of highly productive cattle, is singled out and considered.
FEATURES OF THE KARYOTYPE OF WHITE-HEADED COWS OF UKRAINIAN BREED
Authors: Starodub Lubov
Published: January 2021

The White-Headed Ukrainian breed of cattle belongs to breeds of a dairy direction of productivity and belongs to small disappearing breeds. According to calculations, in accordance with the FAO recommendations, the White-Headed Ukrainian breed of cattle is at risk. The aim of the work was to establish the karyotype variability of White-Headed Ukrainian cows, whose animals belong to closed gene pool herds. Cytogenetic monitoring showed that the quantitative chromosome abnormalities, in particular aneuploidy, in White-Headed Ukrainian cows of two groups according to the purpose of the cow (selection nucleus and production group) did not exceed the spontaneous level of this variability (1.5-8.3%) and was 6.0% and 7.0% respectively.

A multiple increase in the number of chromosomes (polyploidy) was not detected. The average value of metaphase plates with asynchronous differences in the centromeric regions of chromosomes was 1.0% and corresponded to the level of this variability characteristic of the species Bos taurus. The frequency of structural chromosome abnormalities (chromosomal breaks) in animals of the two groups was 2.3% and 2.0%, respectively, which corresponds to the norm characteristic of cattle with spontaneous mutagenesis. The results of the micronucleus test showed that the proportion of lymphocytes with micronuclei in animals of the two groups was in the range of 4.8 - 5.0%, dinuclear lymphocytes 5.6-6.4 %, and the proportion of dividing cells (mitotic index) was 2.8-3.8 %. The frequency of cells with aneuploidy in cows of the Ukrainian Black-Spotted dairy breed of this farm was established higher than the spontaneous level. The difference between the mean values on this basis in cows of White-Headed Ukrainian and Ukrainian Black-Spotted dairy breeds was statistically significant at P> 0.99. In cows of the Ukrainian Black-Spotted dairy breed under conditions of intensive use, an increase in the frequency of metaphases with aneuploidy was observed, which was not manifested in cows of the White-Headed Ukrainian breed.
RESULTS OF BREEDING VALUE EVALUATION OF SOWS WITH THE USE OF TRADITIONAL AND INNOVATIVE METHODS
Authors: Khalak V.I. , Kozir V.S. , Rudenko Yevhen
Published: January 2021

The article presents the results of research on the reproductive qualities of sows of different breeding value, as well as determines the economic efficiency of their use in the industrial complex. The study was conducted in agricultural formations of the Dnipropetrovsk region (LLC "Druzhba-Kaznacheyivka", LLC "Vidrodzhennia") and the laboratory of animal husbandry of the State Institution Institute of Grain Crops NAAS. The work was performed according to the research program of NAAS №30 "Innovative technologies of breeding, industrial and organic production of pig products" ("Pig breeding").

Evaluation of sows on the grounds of reproductive qualities was carried out taking into account the following indicators: fertility, head; high fertility, kg, number of piglets at weaning, head, nest weight at the time of weaning at the age of 28 days, kg, nest weight at the time of weaning at the age of 60 days (estimated), kg, safety, %. The breeding value of animals was determined by the multiplicity and weight of the nest at the time of weaning (according to Annex 7 of the Instructions for grading pigs) and the selection index of reproductive qualities of sows (SIVYAS). The index of alignment (homogeneity) of the sow's nest by live weight of piglets at the time of their birth (ІВГ0) was calculated according to the method of V.I. Khalak (2012), the economic efficiency of research results - according to conventional methods. Biometric processing of research results was performed according to the methods of G.F. Lakin (1990).

It was found that sows of the "elite" class were superior to peers of the "extracurricular" class in terms of multiplicity, several piglets at weaning, nest weight at weaning at 28 days and nest weight at weaning at 60 days (estimated) by an average of 28, 76%. The difference between sows of classes M + and M- (distribution class for SIVYAS) in terms of multiplicity, number of piglets at the time of weaning, the weight of the nest at the time of weaning at the age of 28 days and weight of the nest at the time of weaning at the age of 60 days (estimated) is 34.32. 34.78, 27.60 and 28.30 %, respectively. The coefficients of pair correlation between the absolute indicators of reproductive qualities of sows, the index "alignment (homogeneity) of the sow's nest by live weight of piglets at birth" and the selection index of reproductive qualities of sows (SIVYAS) at 83.33-100.0 % are reliable from -0.446 to +0.989. The criterion for the selection of highly productive animals according to the Instructions for grading pigs is the class "elite", according to the selection index of reproductive qualities of sows (SIVYAS) - 97.85-123.99 and more points.

The use of sows of the class "elite" and М+ (according to SIVYAS) provides additional products at the level of +11.84 - 16.49 %.
THE LEVEL OF NERVOUS BALANCE IN HUCUL HORSE BREED OF DIFFERENT TYPES
Authors: Golovach M. J. , Golovach M. M.
Published: January 2021

The level of nervous balance of Hucul horses of different types and lines was studies. It was found that Hucul horses have a relatively high level of nervous balance, the highest balance was characterized by mares of the riding-harness type, which in the fear test received the highest average number of points, while mares of the primary type - the lowest. Horses of the riding type received the highest average number of points when evaluated by the test in the labyrinth.

According to the results of the fear test, the highest scores belong to the stallions of the riding-harness type, and the lowest - to the stallions of the primary type. According to the sound test, the stallions of the primary type received the most points, and according to the test in the labyrinth - the stallions of the riding type.

It is established that the analyzed signs of a nervous balance of stallions and mares of different lines and types are genetically determined. Thus, among the mares, the most balanced were the daughters of Pegazik from the line of the Hroby. Gwint's daughters from the Gurgul line are also highly valued. Pedro's daughters from the Goral line were the lowest in the fear test.

In the fear test, the sons of Gwint from the Gurgul line were the highest, and the sons of Pedro from the Goral line were the lowest. In the test in the labyrinth with the best mental abilities were the sons of Pegazik from the line of the Hroby, the worst - the sons of Gwint from the line of Gurgul. Despite the difficulties in overcoming the labyrinth, the sons of Gwint had the highest ostentatious stride lengths.

The largest average stride length among horses of the three groups was obtained by stallions and mares of the riding type, and the smallest by stallions and mares of the primary type. Mares and stallions of the riding harness type took an intermediate place according to that indicator.

The results of our research confirm the possibility of the practical application of the method of assessing the nervous balance of horses. The value of this method lies in its use not only in breeding work but also in practical application to increase economic efficiency.
Adsorptive Removal of As(V) from Aqueous Solution onto Steel Slag Recovered Iron – Chitosan Composite: Response Surface Modeling and Kinetics
Authors: Nagarajan Vijayanand , Ganesan Raja , Govindan Srinivasan , Govindaraj Prabha
Published: January 2021

In the present work iron particles was recovered by dry magnetic separation, from waste steel slag, doped with chitosan for adsorbent prepared, characterized and evaluated for the removal of As(V) from an aqueous solution. The adsorption of As(V) was optimized by using response surface methodology through Box-Behnken design model, which gave high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.9175), and a predictive model of quadratic polynomial equation. Analysis of variance and Fischer's F-test were used to govern the parameters which interrupt the adsorption of As(V).The adsorbent was characterized by FTIR, XRD and SEM. Optimal conditions, including adsorbent dosage, pH, temperature, initial ion concentration and contact time for the removal of As(V), were found to be 0.8 g, pH 4, 308 K, 10 mg L−1 and 3 h, respectively. Langmuir isotherm model fitted better compared to the Freundlich model having a maximum adsorption capacity of 11.76 mg g−1, a high regression coefficient value of 0.993 and least chi-square value of 0.1959. The process was found to follow monolayer adsorption and pseudo-second-order kinetics. Thermodynamic parameters such as ∆S, ∆H and ∆G indicated the feasibility, spontaneous and endothermic nature of adsorption. Successful regeneration of the adsorbent implies its applicability to the removal of arsenic from real life wastewater.
Evolutionarily Conserved Long Non-coding RNA Regulates Gene Expression in Cytokine Storm During COVID-19
Authors: Morenikeji Olanrewaju B. , Bernard Kahleel , Strutton Ellis , Wallace Madeleine , Thomas Bolaji N.
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus is a family of viruses including alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-coronaviruses. Only alpha- and betacoronaviruses have been observed to infect humans. Past outbreaks of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, both betacoronavirus, are the result of a spillover from animals. Recently, a new strain termed SARS-CoV-2 emerged in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Severe cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). One contributor to the development of ARDS is cytokine storm, an overwhelming inflammatory immune response. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are genetic regulatory elements that, among many functions, alter gene expression and cellular processes. lncRNAs identified to be pertinent in COVID-19 cytokine storm have the potential to serve as disease markers or drug targets. This project aims to computationally identify conserved lncRNAs potentially regulating gene expression in cytokine storm during COVID-19. We found 22 lncRNAs that can target 10 cytokines overexpressed in COVID-19 cytokine storm, 8 of which targeted two or more cytokine storm cytokines. In particular, the lncRNA non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD), targeted five out of the ten identified cytokine storm cytokines, and is evolutionarily conserved across multiple species. These lncRNAs are ideal candidates for further in vitro and in vivo analysis.
Isolation and Identification of Organics-Degrading Bacteria From Gas-to-Liquid Process Water
Authors: Surkatti Riham , Al Disi Zulfa A. , El-Naas Muftah H. , Zouari Nabil , Van Loosdrecht Mark C. M. , Onwusogh Udeogu
Published: January 2021

The gas-to-liquid (GTL) process generates considerable amounts of wastewater that are highly acidic and characterized by its high chemical oxygen demand (COD) content, due to the presence of several organic pollutants, such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, and fatty acids. The presence of these organics in the process water may lead to adverse effect on the environment and aquatic life. Thus, it is necessary to reduce the COD content of GTL process water to an acceptable limit before discharging or reusing the treated water. Due to several advantages, biological treatment is often utilized as the main step in GTL process water treatment plants. In order to have a successful biotreatment process, it is required to choose effective and suitable bacterial strains that have the ability to degrade the organic pollutants in GTL process water. In this work, bacterial strains were isolated from the GTL process water, identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and then used in the biodegradation process. The detailed identification of the strains confirmed the presence of three organics-degrading bacteria identified as Alcaligenes faecalis, Stenotrophomonas sp., and Ochrobactrum sp. Furthermore, biodegradation experiments were carried out and confirmed that the pure culture as well as the mixed culture consortium of the bacterial strains has the ability to reduce the organic pollutants in GTL process water. However, the growth rate and biodegradation efficiency depend on the type of strains and the initial COD content. Indeed, the removal percentage and growth rate were enhanced after 7 days for all cultures and resulted in COD reduction up to 60%. Moreover, the mixed culture of bacterial strains can tolerate and treat GTL process water with a variety of ranges of COD contents.
TET-Mediated Epigenetic Regulation in Immune Cell Development and Disease
Authors: Tsiouplis Nikolas James , Bailey David Wesley , Chiou Lilly Felicia , Wissink Fiona Jane , Tsagaratou Ageliki
Published: January 2021

TET proteins oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and further oxidation products in DNA. The oxidized methylcytosines (oxi-mCs) facilitate DNA demethylation and are also novel epigenetic marks. TET loss-of-function is strongly associated with cancer; TET2 loss-of-function mutations are frequently observed in hematological malignancies that are resistant to conventional therapies. Importantly, TET proteins govern cell fate decisions during development of various cell types by activating a cell-specific gene expression program. In this review, we seek to provide a conceptual framework of the mechanisms that fine tune TET activity. Then, we specifically focus on the multifaceted roles of TET proteins in regulating gene expression in immune cell development, function, and disease.
Potential Role of Phytochemicals Against Matrix Metalloproteinase Induced Breast Cancer; An Explanatory Review
Authors: Khan Yusra Habib , Uttra Ambreen Malik , Qasim Sumera , Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Alotaibi Nasser Hadal , Rasheed Maria , Alzarea Abdulaziz Ibrahim , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Alruwaili Nabil Khulaif , Khan Salah-Ud-Din , Alanazi Abdullah Salah
Published: January 2021

World Health Organization (WHO) estimated breast cancer as one of the most prevailed malignancy around the globe. Its incident cases are gradually increasing every year, resulting in considerable healthcare burden. The heterogeneity of breast cancer accounts for its differential molecular subtyping, interaction between pathways, DNA damaging, and chronic inflammation. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of zinc-containing, calcium dependent endopeptidases which play a substantial role in breast carcinogenesis through several mechanisms. These mechanisms include remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM), cell proliferation, and angiogenesis which promote metastasis and result in tumor progression. In this context, compounds bearing MMP inhibitory potential can serve as potent therapeutic agents in combating MMPs provoked breast cancer. Current systematic review aimed to encompass the details of potent natural lead molecules that can deter MMPs-provoked breast cancer. Following the critical appraisal of literature, a total ofn= 44 studies that explored inhibitory effect of phytochemicals on MMPs were included in this review. These phytoconstituents include alkaloids (n= 11), flavonoids (n= 23), terpenoids (n= 7), and lignans (n= 2). The most common inhibitory methods used to evaluate efficacy of these phytoconstituents included Gelatin Zymography, Western Blotting, and real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. Moreover, current limitations, challenges, and future directions of using such compounds have been critically discussed. This review underscores the potential implications of phytochemicals in the management of breast cancer which could lessen the growing encumbrance of disease.
A Labeling Strategy for Living Specimens in Long-Term/Super-Resolution Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Han Yubing , Zhang Zhimin , Liu Wenjie , Yao Yuanfa , Xu Yingke , Liu Xu , Kuang Cuifang , Hao Xiang
Published: January 2021

Despite the urgent need to image living specimens for cutting-edge biological research, most existing fluorescent labeling methods suffer from either poor optical properties or complicated operations required to realize cell-permeability and specificity. In this study, we introduce a method to overcome these limits—taking advantage of the intrinsic affinity of bright and photostable fluorophores, no matter if they are supposed to be live-cell incompatible or not. Incubated with living cells and tissues in particular conditions (concentration and temperature), some Atto and BODIPY dyes show live-cell labeling capability for specific organelles without physical cell-penetration or chemical modifications. Notably, by using Atto 647N as a live-cell mitochondrial marker, we obtain 2.5-time enhancement of brightness and photostability compared with the most commonly used SiR dye in long-term imaging. Our strategy has expanded the scientist's toolbox for understanding the dynamics and interactions of subcellular structures in living specimens.
Generation of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Pseudotyped Virus for Viral Entry and Neutralization Assays: A 1-Week Protocol
Authors: Condor Capcha Jose Manuel , Lambert Guerline , Dykxhoorn Derek M. , Salerno Alessandro G. , Hare Joshua M. , Whitt Michael A. , Pahwa Savita , Jayaweera Dushyantha T. , Shehadeh Lina A.
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus requires reliable assays for studying viral entry mechanisms which remains poorly understood. This knowledge is important for the development of therapeutic approaches to control SARS-CoV-2 infection by permitting the screening for neutralizing antibodies and other agents that can block infection. This is particularly important for patients who are at high risk for severe outcomes related to COVID-19. The production of pseudotyped viral particles may seem like a daunting task for a non-virology laboratory without experience in the two most commonly used pseudotyping systems, namely retro/lentiviruses and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) which lacks the VSV envelope glycoprotein (VSVΔG). By incorporating the most up-to-date knowledge, we have developed a detailed, easy-to-follow novel protocol for producing SARS-CoV-2 spike-bearing pseudovirus using the VSV-ΔG system. We describe the infection assay which uses GFP fluorescence as a measure of infection in a 24-well live imaging system. We present results of our optimization of the system to enhance viral infection levels through the over-expression of human ACE2 receptor and the overexpression of at least one of two proteases - TMPRSS2 or Furin, as well as, supplementation with Poloxamer 407 (P407) and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) as adjuvants. We show that the system works efficiently in three unrelated, clinically relevant cell lines: human 293T (renal epithelial) cells, human Calu-3 (lung epithelial) cells, and the non-human primate (African Green Monkey) cell line, Vero-E6 (renal epithelial) cells. In addition, we have used this system to show infection of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPS-CMs). This system is efficient (virus generation, titration, and infection assays can be performed in 1 week), quantitative, inexpensive, and readily scalable for application in drug development and therapeutic screening approaches.
Improving Detectability of Seafloor Deformation From Bottom Pressure Observations Using Numerical Ocean Models
Authors: Dobashi Yoichiro , Inazu Daisuke
Published: January 2021

We investigated ocean bottom pressure (OBP) observation data at six plate subduction zones around the Pacific Ocean. The six regions included the Hikurangi Trough, the Nankai Trough, the Japan Trench, the Aleutian Trench, the Cascadia Subduction Zone, and the Chile Trench. For the sake of improving the detectability of seafloor deformation using OBP observations, we used numerical ocean models to represent realistic oceanic variations, and subtracted them from the observed OBP data. The numerical ocean models included four ocean general circulation models (OGCMs) of HYCOM, GLORYS, ECCO2, and JCOPE2M, and a single-layer ocean model (SOM). The OGCMs are mainly driven by the wind forcing. The SOM is driven by wind and/or atmospheric pressure loading. The modeled OBP was subtracted from the observed OBP data, and root-mean-square (RMS) amplitudes of the residual OBP variations at a period of 3–90 days were evaluated by the respective regions and by the respective numerical ocean models. The OGCMs and SOM driven by wind alone (SOMw) contributed to 5–27% RMS reduction in the residual OBP. When SOM driven by atmospheric pressure alone (SOMp) was added to the modeled OBP, residual RMS amplitudes were additionally reduced by 2–15%. This indicates that the atmospheric pressure is necessary to explain substantial amounts of observed OBP variations at the period. The residual RMS amplitudes were 1.0–1.7 hPa when SOMp was added. The RMS reduction was relatively effective as 16–42% at the Hikurangi Trough, the Nankai Trough, and the Japan Trench. The residual RMS amplitudes were relatively small as 1.0–1.1 hPa at the Nankai Trough and the Chile Trench. These results were discussed with previous studies that had identified slow slips using OBP observations. We discussed on further accurate OBP modeling, and on improving detectability of seafloor deformation using OBP observation arrays.
Geochemistry of Coastal Permafrost and Erosion-Driven Organic Matter Fluxes to the Beaufort Sea Near Drew Point, Alaska
Authors: Bristol Emily M. , Connolly Craig T. , Lorenson Thomas D. , Richmond Bruce M. , Ilgen Anastasia G. , Choens R. Charles , Bull Diana L. , Kanevskiy Mikhail , Iwahana Go , Jones Benjamin M. , McClelland James W.
Published: January 2021

Accelerating erosion of the Alaska Beaufort Sea coast is increasing inputs of organic matter from land to the Arctic Ocean, and improved estimates of organic matter stocks in eroding coastal permafrost are needed to assess their mobilization rates under contemporary conditions. We collected three permafrost cores (4.5–7.5 m long) along a geomorphic gradient near Drew Point, Alaska, where recent erosion rates average 17.2 m year−1. Down-core patterns indicate that organic-rich soils and lacustrine sediments (12–45% total organic carbon; TOC) in the active layer and upper permafrost accumulated during the Holocene. Deeper permafrost (below 3 m elevation) mainly consists of Late Pleistocene marine sediments with lower organic matter content (∼1% TOC), lower C:N ratios, and higher δ13C values. Radiocarbon-based estimates of organic carbon accumulation rates were 11.3 ± 3.6 g TOC m−2 year−1during the Holocene and 0.5 ± 0.1 g TOC m−2 year−1during the Late Pleistocene (12–38 kyr BP). Within relict marine sediments, porewater salinities increased with depth. Elevated salinity near sea level (∼20–37 in thawed samples) inhibited freezing despite year-round temperatures below 0°C. We used organic matter stock estimates from the cores in combination with remote sensing time-series data to estimate carbon fluxes for a 9 km stretch of coastline near Drew Point. Erosional fluxes of TOC averaged 1,369 kg C m−1 year−1during the 21st century (2002–2018), nearly doubling the average flux of the previous half-century (1955–2002). Our estimate of the 21st century erosional TOC flux year−1from this 9 km coastline (12,318 metric tons C year−1) is similar to the annual TOC flux from the Kuparuk River, which drains a 8,107 km2area east of Drew Point and ranks as the third largest river on the North Slope of Alaska. Total nitrogen fluxes via coastal erosion at Drew Point were also quantified, and were similar to those from the Kuparuk River. This study emphasizes that coastal erosion represents a significant pathway for carbon and nitrogen trapped in permafrost to enter modern biogeochemical cycles, where it may fuel food webs and greenhouse gas emissions in the marine environment.
Consequences of β-Thalassemia or Sickle Cell Disease for Ovarian Follicle Number and Morphology in Girls Who Had Ovarian Tissue Cryopreserved
Authors: Mamsen Linn Salto , Kristensen Stine Gry , Pors Susanne Elisabeth , Bøtkjær Jane Alrø , Ernst Erik , Macklon Kirsten Tryde , Gook Debra , Kumar Ajay , Kalra Bhanu , Andersen Claus Yding
Published: January 2021

Women with β-thalassemia (BT) and sickle cell disease (SCD) have a high risk of infertility and premature ovarian insufficiency. Different fertility preserving strategies, including ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and oocyte cryopreservation has been considered, and healthy babies have been born after successful OTC and transplantation. We evaluated follicle number and follicle health in ovarian tissue from a cohort of BT and SCD patients who underwent OTC before the age of 18 years. Patients undergoing OTC from 2002 to 2019 were included. A total of 14 girls and adolescents with BT and four with SCD, aged 2.8–17.4 years at OTC were included together with a reference group of 43 girls and adolescents with non-anemia diseases considered to have normal ovaries aged 0.6–17.9 years at OTC. Ovarian follicle density was measured in cortex biopsies and compared to the reference group. Expression of proteins associated with follicular health was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Follicles were detected in the ovarian cortex biopsies from all patients with BT and SCD. The follicle densities were within the 95% prediction interval of the reference group in all cases. A similar expression of six proteins essential for follicular health was detected using immunohistochemistry in BT, SCD, and references. OTC should be considered an option for young girls and adolescents with BT and SCD.
Sodium-Based Batteries: In Search of the Best Compromise Between Sustainability and Maximization of Electric Performance
Authors: Karabelli Duygu , Singh Soumya , Kiemel Steffen , Koller Jan , Konarov Aishuak , Stubhan Frank , Miehe Robert , Weeber Max , Bakenov Zhumabay , Birke Kai Peter
Published: January 2021

Till 2020 the predominant key success factors of battery development have been overwhelmingly energy density, power density, lifetime, safety, and costs per kWh. That is why there is a high expectation on energy storage systems such as lithium-air (Li-O2) and lithium-sulfur (Li-S) systems, especially for mobile applications. These systems have high theoretical specific energy densities compared to conventional Li-ion systems. If the challenges such as practical implementation, low energy efficiency, and cycle life are handled, these systems could provide an interesting energy source for EVs. However, various raw materials are increasingly under critical discussion. Though only 3 wt% of metallic lithium is present in a modern Li-ion cell, absolute high amounts of lithium demand will rise due to the fast-growing market for traction and stationary batteries. Moreover, many lithium sources are not available without compromising environmental aspects. Therefore, there is a growing focus on alternative technologies such as Na-ion and Zn-ion batteries. On a view of Na-ion batteries, especially the combination with carbons derived from food waste as negative electrodes may generate a promising overall cost structure, though energy densities are not as favorable as for Li-ion batteries. Within the scope of this work, the future potential of sodium-based batteries will be discussed in view of sustainability and abundance vs. maximization of electric performance. The major directions of cathode materials development are reviewed and the tendency towards designing high-performance systems is discussed. This paper provides an outlook on the potential of sodium-based batteries in the future battery market of mobile and stationary applications.
Modeling the Effects of Hydrodynamics on Thermal Stratification and Algal Blooms in the Xiangxi Bay of Three Gorges Reservoir
Authors: Xu Hui , Yan Meng , Long Lianghong , Ma Jun , Ji Daobin , Liu Defu , Yang Zhengjian
Published: January 2021

Algal blooms have been reported in some tributary bays since the initial impoundment of Three Gorges Reservoir, which has seriously affected the water ecology and drinking water safety. Hydrodynamics plays a crucial role in algae growth. The recent numerical models of hydrodynamics and water quality are effective to identify the effects of hydrodynamics on phytoplankton and find potential strategies for controlling algal blooms. In this study, the CE-QUAL-W2 model was applied to simulate the hydrodynamics and algal blooms in the Xiangxi Bay (XXB) of the Three Gorges Reservoir. The model performed well in simulating flow patterns, water temperature profile, and algal blooms. The results indicated that the hydrodynamics showed the spatial and temporal differences in the XXB. In the mouth area, the intensity and plunge depth of density currents were dynamic and characterized by a typical seasonal pattern. The transformation of density currents from interflow to overflow will provide more opportunities for vertical mixing, resulting in un-stratification and reducing of algal blooms. However, in the middle and upper areas, strong stratification and low velocity at upstream provide enough favorable conditions for the growth of algae and increase algal blooms. The simulation results revealed that the variation of mixing depth explains the spatial and temporal differences of Chl.a. It played a vital role in seasonal stratification and the dynamics of phytoplankton succession in XXB.
DNA Methylation Is Responsive to the Environment and Regulates the Expression of Biosynthetic Gene Clusters, Metabolite Production, and Virulence in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Bonner Christopher , Sproule Amanda , Rowland Owen , Overy David , Subramaniam Rajagopal
Published: January 2021

Histone modifications play a significant role in the regulation of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) in the phytopathogen Fusarium graminearum, by contrast, epigenetic regulation by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) is less documented. In this study, we characterized two DNMTs (FgDIM-2 and FgRID) in F. graminearum, with homologies to “Deficient in methylation” (DIM-2) and “Repeat-induced point (RIP) deficient” (RID) from Neurospora. The loss of DNMTs resulted in not only a decrease in average methylation density in the nutrient-poor, compared to nutrient-rich conditions, but also differences in the genes expressed between the WT and the DNMT mutant strains, implicating the external environment as an important trigger in altering DNA methylation patterns. Consequently, we observed significant changes in the regulation of multiple BGCs and alterations in the pathogenicity of the fungus.
The FpPPR1 Gene Encodes a Pentatricopeptide Repeat Protein That Is Essential for Asexual Development, Sporulation, and Pathogenesis in Fusarium pseudograminearum
Authors: Wang Limin , Xie Shunpei , Zhang Yinshan , Kang Ruijiao , Zhang Mengjuan , Wang Min , Li Haiyang , Chen Linlin , Yuan Hongxia , Ding Shengli , Liang Shen , Li Honglian
Published: January 2021

Fusarium crown rot (FCR) and Fusarium head blight (FHB) are caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum and are newly emerging diseases of wheat in China. In this study, we characterized FpPPR1, a gene that encodes a protein with 12 pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) motifs. The radial growth rate of the ΔFpppr1 deletion mutant was significantly slower than the wild type strain WZ-8A on potato dextrose agar plates and exhibited significantly smaller colonies with sector mutations. The aerial mycelium of the mutant was almost absent in culture tubes. The ΔFpppr1 mutant was able to produce spores, but spores of abnormal size and altered conidium septum shape were produced with a significant reduction in sporulation compared to wild type. ΔFpppr1 failed to cause disease on wheat coleoptiles and barley leaves using mycelia plugs or spore suspensions. The mutant phenotypes were successfully restored to the wild type levels in complemented strains. FpPpr1-GFP signals in spores and mycelia predominantly overlapped with Mito-tracker signals, which substantiated the mitochondria targeting signal prediction of FpPpr1. RNAseq revealed significant transcriptional changes in the ΔFpppr1 mutant with 1,367 genes down-regulated and 1,333 genes up-regulated. NAD-binding proteins, thioredoxin, 2Fe-2S iron-sulfur cluster binding domain proteins, and cytochrome P450 genes were significantly down-regulated in ΔFpppr1, implying the dysfunction of mitochondria-mediated reductase redox stress in the mutant. The mating type idiomorphic alleles MAT1-1-1, MAT1-1-2, and MAT1-1-3 in F. pseudograminearum were also down-regulated after deletion of FpPPR1 and validated by real-time quantitative PCR. Additionally, 21 genes encoding putative heterokaryon incompatibility proteins were down-regulated. The yellow pigmentation of the mutant was correlated with reduced expression of PKS12 cluster genes. Taken together, our findings on FpPpr1 indicate that this PPR protein has multiple functions in fungal asexual development, regulation of heterokaryon formation, mating-type, and pathogenesis in F. pseudograminearum.
Identification of Key MicroRNAs and Mechanisms in Prostate Cancer Evolution Based on Biomarker Prioritization Model and Carcinogenic Survey
Authors: Lin Yuxin , Miao Zhijun , Zhang Xuefeng , Wei Xuedong , Hou Jianquan , Huang Yuhua , Shen Bairong
Published: January 2021

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is occurred with increasing incidence and heterogeneous pathogenesis. Although clinical strategies are accumulated for PCa prevention, there is still a lack of sensitive biomarkers for the holistic management in PCa occurrence and progression. Based on systems biology and artificial intelligence, translational informatics provides new perspectives for PCa biomarker prioritization and carcinogenic survey.

Methods: In this study, gene expression and miRNA-mRNA association data were integrated to construct conditional networks specific to PCa occurrence and progression, respectively. Based on network modeling, hub miRNAs with significantly strong single-line regulatory power were topologically identified and those shared by the condition-specific network systems were chosen as candidate biomarkers for computational validation and functional enrichment analysis.

Results: Nine miRNAs, i.e., hsa-miR-1-3p, hsa-miR-125b-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p, hsa-miR-182-5p, hsa-miR-198, hsa-miR-22-3p, hsa-miR-24-3p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, and hsa-miR-499a-5p, were prioritized as key players for PCa management. Most of these miRNAs achieved high AUC values (AUC > 0.70) in differentiating different prostate samples. Among them, seven of the miRNAs have been previously reported as PCa biomarkers, which indicated the performance of the proposed model. The remaining hsa-miR-22-3p and hsa-miR-499a-5p could serve as novel candidates for PCa predicting and monitoring. In particular, key miRNA-mRNA regulations were extracted for pathogenetic understanding. Here hsa-miR-145-5p was selected as the case and hsa-miR-145-5p/NDRG2/AR and hsa-miR-145-5p/KLF5/AR axis were found to be putative mechanisms during PCa evolution. In addition, Wnt signaling, prostate cancer, microRNAs in cancer etc. were significantly enriched by the identified miRNAs-mRNAs, demonstrating the functional role of the identified miRNAs in PCa genesis.

Conclusion: Biomarker miRNAs together with the associated miRNA-mRNA relations were computationally identified and analyzed for PCa management and carcinogenic deciphering. Further experimental and clinical validations using low-throughput techniques and human samples are expected for future translational studies.
The Characteristics of Chemosensory and Opsin Genes in Newly Emerged and Sexually Mature Agrilus planipennis, an Important Quarantine Forest Beetle
Authors: Shen Sifan , Fan Zhizhi , Zhang Xun , Kong Xiangbo , Liu Fu , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Xinhua , Hu Xiumei , Zhang Sufang
Published: January 2021

The emerald ash borer (EAB),Agrilus planipennis, is a highly destructive quarantine pest. The olfactory and visual systems ofA. planipennisplay different but critical roles at newly emerged and sexually mature stages; however, the molecular basis underlying these differences remain unclear. Consequently, based on deep transcriptome sequencing, we evaluated the expression levels of chemosensory-related proteins and opsins at the two developmental stages ofA. planipennis. We found 15 new chemosensory-related genes in our transcriptome assembly compared with the previous genome assembly, including 6 that code for odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and 9 for chemosensory proteins (CSPs). The expression of several chemosensory-related genes (OBP7, OBP10, CSP1, andCSP12) differed markedly between newly emerged and sexually matureA. planipennis. We also found that the expression ofUV opsin 2andLW opsin 1was higher in sexually mature maleA. planipennis, which may be associated with their strong visual mate detection ability. This study forms the basis for further investigation of the chemosensory and visual system ofA. planipennis, and these differentially expressed genes between newly emerged and sexually mature stages may serve as targets for the management of this destructive forest pest after sexual maturity.
Long Non-coding RNA SNHG17 Upregulates RFX1 by Sponging miR-3180-3p and Promotes Cellular Function in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Tao , Zhou Xujun , Wei Hailiang , Yan Shuguang , Hui Yi , Liu Yonggang , Guo Hui , Li Qian , Li Jingtao , Chang Zhanjie , Mu Xiao-Xin
Published: January 2021

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common types of cancer that is associated with poor quality of life in patients and a global health burden. The mechanisms involved in the development and progression of HCC remain poorly understood.

Methods

Hepatocellular carcinoma human samples and cell lines were subjected to qRT-PCR for expression assessment. CCK-8 assay, Transwell migration and invasion assay, were applied for cell function detection. Animal experiment was used to measure the function of SNHG17 on cell growth in vivo. Western blot was conducted to evaluate the level of EMT in cells. RIP, RNA pull-down and luciferase reporter assays were performed to assess the correlation between SNHG17, miR-3180-3p and RFX1.

Results

Our study demonstrated that SNHG17 was upregulated in HCC human samples and involved cell proliferation, migration, invasion progress. SNHG17 promoted HCC cell growth and metastasis in vivo. Furthermore, we investigated the downstream factor of SNHG17, SNHG17 acted as a molecular sponge for miR-3180-3p, and SNHG17 regulated RFX1 expression via miR-3180-3p. SNHG17 promotes tumor-like behavior in HCC cells via miR-3180-3p/RFX1.

Conclusion

We determined RFX1 as the target of miR-3810-3p; SNHG17 enhanced the progression of HCC via the miR-3180-3p/RFX1 axis. Taken together, our findings may provide insight into the molecular mechanism involved in the progression of HCC and develop SNHG17 as a novel therapeutic target against HCC.
Cell Type-Specific Predictive Models Perform Prioritization of Genes and Gene Sets Associated With Autism
Authors: Guan Jinting , Wang Yang , Lin Yiping , Yin Qingyang , Zhuang Yibo , Ji Guoli
Published: January 2021

Bulk transcriptomic analyses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have revealed dysregulated pathways, while the brain cell type-specific molecular pathology of ASD still needs to be studied. Machine learning-based studies can be conducted for ASD, prioritizing high-confidence gene candidates and promoting the design of effective interventions. Using human brain nucleus gene expression of ASD and controls, we construct cell type-specific predictive models for ASD based on individual genes and gene sets, respectively, to screen cell type-specific ASD-associated genes and gene sets. These two kinds of predictive models can predict the diagnosis of a nucleus with known cell type. Then, we construct a multi-label predictive model for predicting the cell type and diagnosis of a nucleus at the same time. Our findings suggest that layer 2/3 and layer 4 excitatory neurons, layer 5/6 cortico-cortical projection neurons, parvalbumin interneurons, and protoplasmic astrocytes are preferentially affected in ASD. The functions of genes with predictive power for ASD are different and the top important genes are distinct across different cells, highlighting the cell-type heterogeneity of ASD. The constructed predictive models can promote the diagnosis of ASD, and the prioritized cell type-specific ASD-associated genes and gene sets may be used as potential biomarkers of ASD.
Case Report: Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Gain-of-Function and Spectrin Deficiency: A Life-Threatening Case of Severe Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Ciullini Mannurita Sara , Goda Rayan , Schiavo Ebe , Coniglio Maria Luisa , Azzali Annachiara , Fotzi Ilaria , Tondo Annalisa , Tintori Veronica , Frenos Stefano , Sanvito Maria Chiara , Vignoli Marina , Luceri Cristina , Bigagli Elisabetta , Grassi Alessia , D’Elios Mario Milco , Favre Claudio , Gambineri Eleonora
Published: January 2021

STAT3 gain-of-function (GOF) mutations can be responsible for an incomplete phenotype mainly characterized by hematological autoimmunity, even in the absence of other organ autoimmunity, growth impairment, or severe infections. We hereby report a case with an incomplete form of STAT3 GOF intensified by a concomitant hereditary hematological disease, which misleads the diagnosis. The patient presented with lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, hypogammaglobulinemia, and severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) with critical complications, including stroke. A Primary Immune Regulatory Disorders (PIRD) was suspected, and molecular analysis revealed a de novo STAT3 gain-of-function mutation. The response to multiple immune suppressive treatments was ineffective, and further investigations revealed a spectrin deficiency. Ultimately, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from a matched unrelated donor was able to cure the patient. Our case shows an atypical presentation of STAT3 GOF associated with hereditary spherocytosis, and how achievement of a good long-term outcome depends on a strict clinical and laboratory monitoring, as well as on prompt therapeutic intervention.
A Decade Experience on Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Phenotype in Oman, Bridging to Newborn Screening
Authors: Al Sukaiti Nashat , Ahmed Khwater , Alshekaili Jalila , Al Kindi Mahmood , Cook Matthew C. , Farsi Tariq Al
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) results from various monogenic defects that impair immune function and brings on early severe and life-threatening infections. The main stay of treatment for SCID is hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) with near normal survival at 5 years for an early transplant done at or before the age of 3.5 months of life and the patient is maintained free of infections. Although overall rare, it constitutes a major burden on affected children, their families and on the health system especially in communities with a high rate of consanguinity where incidence and prevalence of recessive inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are expected to be high.

Method

Here, we report the clinical, immunological, and molecular findings in 36 children diagnosed with SCID from a single tertiary center in Oman for the last decade.

Results

We observed a median annual incidence rate of 4.5 per 100,000 Omani live births, and 91.7% of affected children were born to consanguineous parents. Twenty-three children (63.9%) fulfilled the criteria for typical SCID. The median age at onset, diagnosis and diagnostic delay were 54, 135, and 68 days, respectively. The most common clinical manifestations were pneumonia, septicemia, and chronic diarrhea. Eleven children (30.6%) have received hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) with a survival rate of 73%. The most frequent genetic cause of SCID in this cohort (n = 36) was (RAG-1), encoding for recombination activating gene (n = 5, 13.9%). Similarly, Major histocompatibility complex type II deficiency accounted for (n = 5, 13.9%) of our cohort.

Conclusion

Our report broadens the knowledge of clinical and molecular manifestations in children with SCID in the region and highlights the need to initiate newborn based screening program (NBS) program.