bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of the location of pneumothorax in chest X-rays using small artificial neural networks and a simple training process
Authors: Cho Yongil , Kim Jong Soo , Lim Tae Ho , Lee Inhye , Choi Jongbong
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance achieved by using fully-connected small artificial neural networks (ANNs) and a simple training process, the Kim-Monte Carlo algorithm, to detect the location of pneumothorax in chest X-rays. A total of 1,000 chest X-ray images with pneumothorax were taken randomly from NIH (the National Institutes of Health) public image database and used as the training and test sets. Each X-ray image with pneumothorax was divided into 49 boxes for pneumothorax localization. For each of the boxes in the chest X-ray images contained in the test set, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was 0.882, and the sensitivity and specificity were 80.6% and 83.0%, respectively. In addition, a common currently used deep-learning method for image recognition, the convolution neural network (CNN), was also applied to the same dataset for comparison purposes. The performance of the fully-connected small ANN was better than that of the CNN. Regarding the diagnostic performances of the CNN with different activation functions, the CNN with a sigmoid activation function for fully-connected hidden nodes was better than the CNN with the rectified linear unit (RELU) activation function. This study showed that our approach can accurately detect the location of pneumothorax in chest X-rays, significantly reduce the time delay incurred when diagnosing urgent diseases such as pneumothorax, and increase the effectiveness of clinical practice and patient care.
The ATF6β-calreticulin axis promotes neuronal survival under endoplasmic reticulum stress and excitotoxicity
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Thi , Le Thuong Manh , Hattori Tsuyoshi , Takarada-Iemata Mika , Ishii Hiroshi , Roboon Jureepon , Tamatani Takashi , Kannon Takayuki , Hosomichi Kazuyoshi , Tajima Atsushi , Taniuchi Shusuke , Miyake Masato , Oyadomari Seiichi , Tanaka Takashi , Kato Nobuo , Saito Shunsuke , Mori Kazutoshi , Hori Osamu
Published: June 2021

While ATF6α plays a central role in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response, the function of its paralogue ATF6β remains elusive, especially in the central nervous system (CNS). Here, we demonstrate that ATF6β is highly expressed in the hippocampus of the brain, and specifically regulates the expression of calreticulin (CRT), a molecular chaperone in the ER with a high Ca2+-binding capacity. CRT expression was reduced to ~ 50% in the CNS of Atf6b−/− mice under both normal and ER stress conditions. Analysis using cultured hippocampal neurons revealed that ATF6β deficiency reduced Ca2+ stores in the ER and enhanced ER stress-induced death. The higher levels of death in Atf6b−/− neurons were recovered by ATF6β and CRT overexpressions, or by treatment with Ca2+-modulating reagents such as BAPTA-AM and 2-APB, and with an ER stress inhibitor salubrinal. In vivo, kainate-induced neuronal death was enhanced in the hippocampi of Atf6b−/− and Calr+/− mice, and restored by administration of 2-APB and salubrinal. These results suggest that the ATF6β-CRT axis promotes neuronal survival under ER stress and excitotoxity by improving intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis.
Photobiomodulation has rejuvenating effects on aged bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Eroglu Binnur , Genova Evan , Zhang Quanguang , Su Yun , Shi Xingming , Isales Carlos , Eroglu Ali
Published: June 2021

The plasticity and proliferative capacity of stem cells decrease with aging, compromising their tissue regenerative potential and therapeutic applications. This decline is directly linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Here, we present an effective strategy to reverse aging of mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) by restoring their mitochondrial functionality using photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. Following the characterization of young and aged MSCs, our results show that a near-infrared PBM treatment delivering 3 J/cm2 is the most effective modality for improving mitochondrial functionality and aging markers. Furthermore, our results unveil that young and aged MSCs respond differently to the same modality of PBM: whereas the beneficial effect of a single PBM treatment dissipates within 7 h in aged stem cells, it is lasting in young ones. Nevertheless, by applying three consecutive treatments at 24-h intervals, we were able to obtain a lasting rejuvenating effect on aged MSCs. Our findings are of particular significance for improving autologous stem cell transplantation in older individuals who need such therapies most.
The first genotype II African swine fever virus isolated in Africa provides insight into the current Eurasian pandemic
Authors: Njau Emma P. , Domelevo Entfellner Jean-Baka , Machuka Eunice M. , Bochere Edwina N. , Cleaveland Sarah , Shirima Gabriel M. , Kusiluka Lughano J. , Upton Chris , Bishop Richard P. , Pelle Roger , Okoth Edward A.
Published: June 2021

African swine fever (ASF) caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV) is ranked by OIE as the most important source of mortality in domestic pigs globally and is indigenous to African wild suids and soft ticks. Despite two ASFV genotypes causing economically devastating epidemics outside the continent since 1961, there have been no genome-level analyses of virus evolution in Africa. The virus was recently transported from south-eastern Africa to Georgia in 2007 and has subsequently spread to Russia, eastern Europe, China, and south-east Asia with devastating socioeconomic consequences. To date, two of the 24 currently described ASFV genotypes defined by sequencing of the p72 gene, namely genotype I and II, have been reported outside Africa, with genotype II being responsible for the ongoing pig pandemic. Multiple complete genotype II genome sequences have been reported from European, Russian and Chinese virus isolates but no complete genome sequences have yet been reported from Africa. We report herein the complete genome of a Tanzanian genotype II isolate, Tanzania/Rukwa/2017/1, collected in 2017 and determined using an Illumina short read strategy. The Tanzania/Rukwa/2017/1 sequence is 183,186 bp in length (in a single contig) and contains 188 open reading frames. Considering only un-gapped sites in the pairwise alignments, the new sequence has 99.961% identity with the updated Georgia 2007/1 reference isolate (FR682468.2), 99.960% identity with Polish isolate Pol16_29413_o23 (MG939586) and 99.957% identity with Chinese isolate ASFV-wbBS01 (MK645909.1). This represents 73 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) relative to the Polish isolate and 78 SNPs with the Chinese genome. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Tanzania/Rukwa/2017/1 clusters most closely with Georgia 2007/1. The majority of the differences between Tanzania/Rukwa/2017/1 and Georgia 2007/1 genotype II genomes are insertions/deletions (indels) as is typical for ASFV. The indels included differences in the length and copy number of the terminal multicopy gene families, MGF 360 and 110. The Rukwa2017/1 sequence is the first complete genotype II genome from a precisely mapped locality in Africa, since the exact origin of Georgia2007/1 is unknown. It therefore provides baseline information for future analyses of the diversity and phylogeography of this globally important genetic sub-group of ASF viruses.
Scalable 18,650 aqueous-based supercapacitors using hydrophobicity concept of anti-corrosion graphite passivation layer
Authors: Chomkhuntod Praeploy , Iamprasertkun Pawin , Chiochan Poramane , Suktha Phansiri , Sawangphruk Montree
Published: June 2021

Scalable aqueous-based supercapacitors are ideal as future energy storage technologies due to their great safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, the corrosion of metal current collectors e.g., aluminium (Al) foil in aqueous solutions limits their practical applications. In this work, we demonstrate a low-cost, scalable, and simple method to prepare an anti-corrosion current collector using a concept of hydrophobicity by coating the hydrophobic graphite passivation layer on the Al foil via a roll-to-roll coating technology at the semi-automation scale of production pilot plant of 18,650 cylindrical supercapacitor cells. All qualities of materials, electrodes, and production process are therefore in the quality control as the same level of commercial supercapacitors. In addition, the effects of the graphite coating layer have been fundamentally evaluated. We have found that the graphite-coated layer can improve the interfacial contact without air void space between the activated carbon active material layer and the Al foil current collector. Importantly, it can suppress the corrosion and the formation of resistive oxide film resulting in better rate capability and excellent cycling stability without capacitance loss after long cycling. The scalable supercapacitor prototypes here in this work may pave the way to practical 18,650 supercapacitors for sustainable energy storage systems in the future.
Metabolomic and lipidomic changes triggered by lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation in transgenic APdE9 mice
Authors: Puris Elena , Kouřil Štěpán , Najdekr Lukáš , Loppi Sanna , Korhonen Paula , Kanninen Katja M. , Malm Tarja , Koistinaho Jari , Friedecký David , Gynther Mikko
Published: June 2021

Peripheral infections followed by systemic inflammation may contribute to the onset of Alzheimer`s disease (AD) and accelerate the disease progression later in life. Yet, the impact of systemic inflammation on the plasma and brain tissue metabolome and lipidome in AD has not been investigated. In this study, targeted metabolomic and untargeted lipidomic profiling experiments were performed on the plasma, cortices, and hippocampi of wild-type (WT) mice and transgenic APdE9 mice after chronic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment, as well as saline-treated APdE9 mice. The lipidome and the metabolome of these mice were compared to saline-treated WT animals. In the brain tissue of all three models, the lipidome was more influenced than the metabolome. The LPS-treated APdE9 mice had the highest number of changes in brain metabolic pathways with significant alterations in levels of lysine, myo-inositol, spermine, phosphocreatine, acylcarnitines and diacylglycerols, which were not observed in the saline-treated APdE9 mice. In the WT mice, the effect of the LPS administration on metabolome and lipidome was negligible. The study provided exciting information about the biochemical perturbations due to LPS-induced inflammation in the transgenic AD model, which can significantly enhance our understanding of the role of systemic inflammation in AD pathogenesis.
TXNDC2 joint molecular marker is associated with testis pathology and is an accurate predictor of sperm retrieval
Authors: Javadirad Seyed-Morteza , Mokhtari Mohammad
Published: June 2021

The association of PRM1/2 with male azoospermia is well-documented, but the relationship between TXNDC2 deficiency and the azoospermia phenotype, sperm retrieval, and pathology has not been elucidated. Here we identified the association of TXNDC2 and protamines in evaluating testis pathology and sperm retrieval. An extensive microarray meta-analysis of men with idiopathic azoospermia was performed, and after undergoing several steps of data quality controls, the data passing QC were pooled and batch effect corrected. As redox imbalance has been shown to have a variable relationship with fertility, our relative expression studies began with candidate protamination and thioredoxin genes. We constructed a logistic regression model of TXNDC2 with PRM1 and PRM2 genes, and collective ROC analysis indicated a sensitivity of 96.8% and specificity of 95.5% with a ROC value of 0.995 (SE = 0.0070, 95% CI 0.982–1.000). These results demonstrate that TXNDC2, PRM1, and PRM2 combined have a robust power to predict sperm retrieval and correlate with severe azoospermia pathology.
A cohort study to investigate sex-specific differences in ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis outcomes
Authors: Scott Jennifer , Canepa Carolina , Buettner Antonia , Ryan Louise , Moloney Bróna , Cormican Sarah , Walsh Cathal , White Arthur , Salama Alan D. , Little Mark A.
Published: June 2021

Data surrounding sex-specific differences in ANCA-associated vasculitis glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) outcomes is sparse. We hypothesised that the previously observed increased risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in males is driven by sex-specific variation in immunosuppression dosing. Patients were recruited to the Irish Rare Kidney Disease Registry or followed by the Royal Free Hospital vasculitis team (2012–2020). Inclusion criteria: prior diagnosis of ANCA-GN (biopsy proven pauci-immune glomerulonephritis) and positive serology for anti-MPO or -PR3 antibodies. Renal and patient survival, stratified by sex and Berden histological class, was analysed. The cumulative- and starting dose/kilogram of induction agents and prednisolone, respectively, was compared between sexes. 332 patients were included. Median follow-up was time 40.2 months (IQR 17.3–69.2). 73 (22%) reached ESKD and 47 (14.2%) died. Overall 1- and 5-year renal survival was 82.2% and 76.7% in males and 87.1% and 82.0% in females, respectively (p 0.13). The hazard ratio for ESKD in males versus females, after adjustment for age, ANCA serology, baseline creatinine and histological class was 1.07 (95% CI 0.59–1.93). There was no difference between sexes in the dose/kilogram of any induction agent. We did not observe a strong impact of sex on renal outcome in ANCA-GN. Treatment intensity does not vary by sex.
A possible relation between Arctic sea ice and late season Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall extremes
Authors: Chatterjee Sourav , Ravichandran Muthalagu , Murukesh Nuncio , Raj Roshin P. , Johannessen Ola M.
Published: June 2021

The out-of-phase inter-decadal co-variability between summer (JJA) sea ice extent (SIE) in the Kara Sea (KS) sector of the Arctic Ocean and Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (ISMR) is found to be weakened during the recent decades with rapidly declining SIE in the KS (since the 1980s). However, SIE in the KS and frequency of ISMR extremes are found to have a consistent out-of-phase relation during the rapidly declining SIE periods. A possible physical mechanism for the relation between the late-season ISMR extremes and summer SIE in the KS is suggested, focusing on the recent years since the 1980s.
Exploring the evidence for epigenetic regulation of environmental influences on child health across generations
Authors: Breton Carrie V. , Landon Remy , Kahn Linda G. , Enlow Michelle Bosquet , Peterson Alicia K. , Bastain Theresa , Braun Joseph , Comstock Sarah S. , Duarte Cristiane S. , Hipwell Alison , Ji Hong , LaSalle Janine M. , Miller Rachel L. , Musci Rashelle , Posner Jonathan , Schmidt Rebecca , Suglia Shakira F. , Tung Irene , Weisenberger Daniel , Zhu Yeyi , Fry Rebecca
Published: June 2021

Environmental exposures, psychosocial stressors and nutrition are all potentially important influences that may impact health outcomes directly or via interactions with the genome or epigenome over generations. While there have been clear successes in large-scale human genetic studies in recent decades, there is still a substantial amount of missing heritability to be elucidated for complex childhood disorders. Mounting evidence, primarily in animals, suggests environmental exposures may generate or perpetuate altered health outcomes across one or more generations. One putative mechanism for these environmental health effects is via altered epigenetic regulation. This review highlights the current epidemiologic literature and supporting animal studies that describe intergenerational and transgenerational health effects of environmental exposures. Both maternal and paternal exposures and transmission patterns are considered, with attention paid to the attendant ethical, legal and social implications.
Neuroprotective effects of NDEELNK from sea cucumber ovum against scopolamine-induced PC12 cell damage through enhancing energy metabolism and upregulation of the PKA/BDNF/NGF signaling pathway
Authors: Zhao Yue , Dong Yifei , Ge Qi , Cui Pengbo , Sun Na , Lin Songyi
Published: June 2021

The NDEELNK improved the cholinergic system, increased SOD activity, decreased ROS production and enhanced cellular energy metabolism and upregulated the expression of p-PKA, BNDF and NGF.
Full-colour solvatochromic fluorescence emitted from a semi-aromatic imide compound based on ESIPT and anion formation
Authors: Tabuchi Atsuko , Hayakawa Teruaki , Kuwata Shigeki , Ishige Ryohei , Ando Shinji
Published: June 2021

A colourless organic crystal exhibits reddish fluorescence (FL) with a quite large Stokes shift in the crystalline state, as well as full-colour FL in solution depending on the solvent and excitation wavelength, owing to the balance among the normal, anionic, and ESIPT FLs.
Throwing light on the current developments of two-dimensional metal–organic framework nanosheets (2D MONs)
Authors: Khan Shabnam , Shahid M.
Published: June 2021

Current advancements in the chemistry of two dimensional metal organic framework nanosheets (2D MONs) are sketched out in this perspective.
Giant negative Poisson's ratio in two-dimensional V-shaped materials
Authors: Ma Xikui , Liu Jian , Fan Yingcai , Li Weifeng , Hu Jifan , Zhao Mingwen
Published: June 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) auxetic materials with exceptional negative Poisson's ratios (NPR) are drawing increasing interest due to their potential use in medicine, fasteners, tougher composites and many other applications.
Transition-metal-free decarbonylative alkylation towards N-aryl α-hydroxy amides via triple C–C bond cleavages and their selective deuteration
Authors: Sun Chengyu , Yu Yang , Zhang Xiao , Liu Yonghai , Sun Chengtao , Kai Guoyin , Shi Lei , Li Hao
Published: June 2021

A transition-metal-free decarbonylative alkylation reaction for the synthesis of N-aryl α-hydroxy amides via precise cleavages and reorganizations of three C–C σ bonds has been developed.
Functional group introduction and aromatic unit variation in a set of π-conjugated macrocycles: revealing the central role of local and global aromaticity
Authors: Rimmele Martina , Nogala Wojciech , Seif-Eddine Maryam , Roessler Maxie M. , Heeney Martin , Plasser Felix , Glöcklhofer Florian
Published: June 2021

Insights into how the optoelectronic properties of π-conjugated macrocycles evolve as a result of systematic structural changes are presented, helping to develop structure–property relationships and molecular design guidelines.
γ-Ray irradiation-induced unprecedent optical, frictional and electrostatic performances on CVD-prepared monolayer WSe2
Authors: Wu Xiongli , Zheng Xuejun , Zhang Guangbiao , Chen Xinnan , Dong Hui
Published: June 2021

Our work showed a new defect inducing technique to engineer the bandgap and control the optical, frictional and electrostatic properties of atomically thin WSe2.
Preparation, characterization, and feasibility study of Sr/Zn-doped CPP/GNS/UHMWPE composites as an artificial joint component with enhanced hardness, impact strength, tribological and biological performance
Authors: Zhang Kaixuan , Peng Xu , Cheng Can , Zhao Yang , Yu Xixun
Published: June 2021

A new kind of metalo-organic particle (Sr/Zn-doped CPP/GNS), synthesized using spark plasma sintering (SPS), was used as a filler to enhance the comprehensive performance of UHMWPE for applications in joint replacement.
Acid-catalyzed transformation of cassane diterpenoids from Caesalpinia bonduc to aromatic derivatives
Authors: Liu Ting , Ning Zunxi , Yin Yan , Qi Shizhou , Gao Huiyuan
Published: June 2021

Transformations of cassane diterpenoids from Caesalpinia bonduc into aromatic derivatives, either in CDCl3 or in CHCl3 irradiated with UV light or catalyzed by AlCl3, were described.
Correction: N/O co-enriched graphene hydrogels as high-performance electrodes for aqueous symmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Yong , Wei Liang , Liu Xijun , Ma Wenhui , Wang Jiankai , Fan Shan
Published: June 2021

Correction for ‘N/O co-enriched graphene hydrogels as high-performance electrodes for aqueous symmetric supercapacitors’ by Yong Zhang et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 19737–19746, DOI: 10.1039/D1RA01863A.
An experimental approach probing the conformational transitions and energy landscape of antibodies: a glimmer of hope for reviving lost therapeutic candidates using ionic liquid
Authors: Shmool Talia A. , Martin Laura K. , Bui-Le Liem , Moya-Ramirez Ignacio , Kotidis Pavlos , Matthews Richard P. , Venter Gerhard A. , Kontoravdi Cleo , Polizzi Karen M. , Hallett Jason P.
Published: June 2021

Probing the energy landscape and thermodynamics of biomolecules for drug design.
Enantiopure nanohoops through racemic resolution of diketo[n]CPPs by chiral derivatization as precursors to DBP[n]CPPs
Authors: Wassy Daniel , Hermann Mathias , Wössner Jan S. , Frédéric Lucas , Pieters Grégory , Esser Birgit
Published: June 2021

Racemic resolution of diketone-embedded cycloparaphenylenes by derivatization with a chiral auxiliary provides scalable access to enantiopure hoops with chiroptical properties.
Highly efficient on-DNA amide couplings promoted by micelle forming surfactants for the synthesis of DNA encoded libraries
Authors: Hunter James H. , Anderson Matthew J. , Castan Isaline F. S. F. , Graham Jessica S. , Salvini Catherine L. A. , Stanway-Gordon Harriet A. , Crawford James J. , Madin Andrew , Pairaudeau Garry , Waring Michael J.
Published: June 2021

Highly efficient forward and reverse on-DNA amide couplings were developed exploiting hydrophobic linkers in combination with the micelle forming surfactant TPGS-750M. The method is highly effective for a wide range of substrates in the synthesis of DNA-encoded libraries.
Force-dependent bond dissociation explains the rate-dependent fracture of vitrimers
Authors: Song Zhaoqiang , Shen Tong , Vernerey Franck J. , Cai Shengqiang
Published: June 2021

We find that, in contrast to most viscoelastic polymers previously studied, the intrinsic fracture toughness of vitrimer strongly depends on the loading rate while its bulk dissipation associated with crack extension has weak rate-dependence.
Photothermal effect enables markedly enhanced oxygen reduction and evolution activities for high-performance Zn–air batteries
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Pan Shuang , Song Huanhuan , Guo Wengai , Gu Fan , Yan Chengzhan , Jin Huile , Zhang Lijie , Chen Yihuang , Wang Shun
Published: June 2021

A simple yet robust strategy was reported to markedly boost the performance of ZABs via capitalizing on the photothermal effect.
Tannic acid decorated AuPd lavender-like nanochains for enhanced oxygen reduction electrocatalysis
Authors: Yin Shuli , Liu Songliang , Jiao Shiqian , Zhang Hugang , Xu You , Wang Ziqiang , Li Xiaonian , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: June 2021

Tannic acid decorated AuPd lavender-like nanochain catalysts have been synthesized for the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction with excellent activity, stability and methanol tolerance.
Multifunctional layered hybrid perovskites
Authors: Milić Jovana V.
Published: June 2021

Layered hybrid perovskites incorporating organic moieties with enhanced functionalities within the perovskite scaffold enable the development of advanced multifunctional materials.
Systemic inflammation down-regulates glyoxalase-1 expression: an experimental study in healthy males
Authors: G.H. Driessen Rob , Kiers Dorien , G. Schalkwijk Casper , L.J.M. Scheijen Jean , Gerretsen Jelle , Pickkers Peter , C.G. van de Poll Marcel , C.C. van der Horst Iwan , C.J.J. Bergmans Dennis , Kox Matthijs , C.T. van Bussel Bas
Published: June 2021

Background: Hypoxia and inflammation are hallmarks of critical illness, related to multiple organ failure. A possible mechanism leading to multiple organ failure is hypoxia- or inflammation-induced down-regulation of the detoxifying glyoxalase system that clears dicarbonyl stress. The dicarbonyl methylglyoxal (MGO) is a highly reactive agent produced by metabolic pathways such as anaerobic glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. MGO leads to protein damage and ultimately multi-organ failure. Whether detoxification of MGO into D-lactate by glyoxalase functions appropriately under conditions of hypoxia and inflammation is largely unknown. We investigated the effect of inflammation and hypoxia on the MGO pathway in humans in vivo.

Methods: After prehydration with glucose 2.5% solution, ten healthy males were exposed to hypoxia (arterial saturation 80–85%) for 3.5 h using an air-tight respiratory helmet, ten males to experimental endotoxemia (LPS 2 ng/kg i.v.), ten males to LPS+hypoxia and ten males to none of these interventions (control group). Serial blood samples were drawn, and glyoxalase-1 mRNA expression, MGO, methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone-1 (MG-H1), D-lactate and L-lactate levels, were measured serially.

Results: Glyoxalase-1 mRNA expression decreased in the LPS (β (95%CI); -0.87 (-1.24; -0.50) and the LPS+hypoxia groups; -0.78 (-1.07; -0.48) (P<0.001). MGO was equal between groups, whereas MG-H1 increased over time in the control group only (P=0.003). D-Lactate was increased in all four groups. L-Lactate was increased in all groups, except in the control group.

Conclusion: Systemic inflammation downregulates glyoxalase-1 mRNA expression in humans. This is a possible mechanism leading to cell damage and multi-organ failure in critical illness with potential for intervention.
Manufacturing of animal products by the assembly of microfabricated tissues
Authors: Jo Byeongwook , Nie Minghao , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: June 2021

With the current rapidly growing global population, the animal product industry faces challenges which not only demand drastically increased amounts of animal products but also have to limit the emission of greenhouse gases and animal waste. These issues can be solved by the combination of microfabrication and tissue engineering techniques, which utilize the microtissue as a building component for larger tissue assembly to fabricate animal products. Various methods for the assembly of microtissue have been proposed such as spinning, cell layering, and 3D bioprinting to mimic the intricate morphology and function of the in vivo animal tissues. Some of the demonstrations on cultured meat and leather-like materials present promising outlooks on the emerging field of in vitro production of animal products.
Strategies for inclusion of growth factors into 3D printed bone grafts
Authors: Longoni Alessia , Li Jun , Lindberg Gabriella C.J. , Rnjak-Kovacina Jelena , Wise Lyn M. , Hooper Gary J. , Woodfield Tim B.F. , Kieser David C. , Lim Khoon S.
Published: June 2021

There remains a critical need to develop new technologies and materials that can meet the demands of treating large bone defects. The advancement of 3-dimensional (3D) printing technologies has allowed the creation of personalized and customized bone grafts, with specific control in both macro- and micro-architecture, and desired mechanical properties. Nevertheless, the biomaterials used for the production of these bone grafts often possess poor biological properties. The incorporation of growth factors (GFs), which are the natural orchestrators of the physiological healing process, into 3D printed bone grafts, represents a promising strategy to achieve the bioactivity required to enhance bone regeneration. In this review, the possible strategies used to incorporate GFs to 3D printed constructs are presented with a specific focus on bone regeneration. In particular, the strengths and limitations of different methods, such as physical and chemical cross-linking, which are currently used to incorporate GFs to the engineered constructs are critically reviewed. Different strategies used to present one or more GFs to achieve simultaneous angiogenesis and vasculogenesis for enhanced bone regeneration are also covered in this review. In addition, the possibility of combining several manufacturing approaches to fabricate hybrid constructs, which better mimic the complexity of biological niches, is presented. Finally, the clinical relevance of these approaches and the future steps that should be taken are discussed.
Functional roles of female sex hormones and their nuclear receptors in cervical cancer
Authors: Lee Seoung-Ae , Baik Seunghan , Chung Sang-Hyuk
Published: June 2021

There has been little progress for several decades in modalities to treat cervical cancer. While the cervix is a hormone-sensitive tissue, physiologic roles of estrogen receptor α (ERα), progesterone receptor (PR), and their ligands in this tissue are poorly understood. It has hampered critical assessments of data in early epidemiologic and clinical studies for cervical cancer. Experimental evidence obtained from studies using mouse models has provided new insights into the molecular mechanism of ERα and PR in cervical cancer. In a mouse model expressing human papillomavirus (HPV) oncogenes, exogenous estrogen promotes cervical cancer through stromal ERα. In the same mouse model, genetic ablation of PR promotes cervical carcinogenesis without exogenous estrogen. Medroxyprogesterone acetate, a PR-activating drug, regresses cervical cancer in the mouse model. These results support that ERα and PR play opposite roles in cervical cancer. They further support that ERα inhibition and PR activation may be translated into valuable treatment for a subset of cervical cancers.
Online, Asynchronous Hearing Education and Research Project for Ethnically Diverse Adolescents via Interprofessional Collaboration and Electronic Service-Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Pilot Study on the Needs and Challenges
Authors: Deshpande Shruti Balvalli
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study discusses the creation of an online, asynchronous presentation to educate adolescents about prevention of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) through interprofessional collaborations and electronic service-learning (eSL) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

The Hearing Education and Research (HEAR) presentation, which included activities and videos to educate a group of ethnically diverse adolescents (n= 100) on NIHL, was created by 11 doctor of audiology (AuD) students through online collaborations toward course-related eSL requirements. Adolescents responded to a baseline survey to assess hearing health–related behaviors prior to reviewing the presentation. A postprogram survey was administered 1 week after the presentation to assess change in knowledge and attitudes toward NIHL prevention. Online collaborations with schoolteachers helped with project implementation. Postreflection papers written by AuD students regarding the eSL activities were analyzed. Lastly, suggestions from a focus group of educators were included that highlight the role of interprofessional collaborations to enhance school-based hearing conservation opportunities.

Results

The HEAR presentation resulted in changes in knowledge about NIHL among the adolescents. Postreflection papers by the AuD students indicated that the eSL activity served as a high-impact pedagogical assignment, especially during the academic challenges of the pandemic. Feedback from a focus group of schoolteachers helped outline ideas for future implementation of sustainable hearing conservation programs in school settings.

Conclusion

The pilot data collected in this study serve as a proof of concept for future hearing conservation projects in school-based settings via interprofessional collaborations and by engaging university students via eSL.
Application of ecologically balanced technologies of rice cultivation in the Krasnodar Territory
Authors: Prikhodko Igor , Vladimirov Stanislav , Alexandrov Daniel
Published: June 2021

The domestic and foreign research in the field of rice cultivation carried out over the past 10-15 years has identified four main promising technologies that can reduce the cost of rice produced: 1 - intermittent flooding; 2 - periodic moistening without creating a layer of water; 3 - sprinkling, including surface irrigation; 4 - drip irrigation. Drip irrigation of rice is the most priority area of research, since it can significantly reduce the irrigation rate, labor costs, the cost of rice production and anthropogenic load. The purpose of our research was to develop a new technology of rice cultivation with drip irrigation adapted for the climatic and soil conditions of the Krasnodar Territory. As a result of the research carried out, a drip irrigation technological scheme was developed and implemented for LLC “Chernoerkovskoye” of the Slavyansky District of the Krasnodar Territory. The developed scheme of rice cultivation on drip irrigation has proven its effectiveness, which was expressed in improving the reclamation state of soils, increasing the profitability of production by 22% and increasing the yield by 20%, reducing the irrigation rate by an average of 5.3 times, the cost of rice grain by 15% and labor intensity by 34%.
Optimization of the electrostatic fumigation process of grain seeds in a transferled layer
Authors: Shubkin Sergey , Buneev Sergey , Slivinsky Evgeny , Radin Sergey , Yeletskikh Sergey
Published: June 2021

The article presents the results of studies of the process of electrostatic fumigation of seeds of leguminous crops with an ionized fumigating agent in a drum-type installation by methods of mathematical planning. A complete factorial experiment of type 23 is implemented. An equation is obtained that adequately describes this process, and its graphic interpretation is given. Practical recommendations are given for the development of regimes for industrial fumigation of seeds of leguminous crops, allowing to predict the conditions of the process.
Estimation of grain productivity and biochemical indicators of the winter bread wheat varieties depending on the forecrop
Authors: Nekrasova Оlesya , Kravchenko Nina , Marchenko Dmitry , Nekrasov Evgeny
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the study was to estimate the effect of sunflower and pea on the amount of productivity, protein and gluten percentage in grain. The objects of the study were 13 winter bread wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum L.) developed by the Agricultural Research Center “Donskoy”. The study was carried out in 2018-2020 on the fields of the department of winter wheat breeding and seed production. The forecrops were peas and sunflower. The study results showed that the varieties ‘Volny Don’ (6.1 t / ha), ‘Krasa Dona’ (6.1 t / ha) and ‘Lidiya’ (6.0 t / ha), when sown after peas, gave the largest yields. The varieties ‘Volny Don’ (4.9 t / ha) and ‘Polina’ (4.8 t / ha) which were sown after sunflower, showed the best productivity. The analysis of qualitative indicators established that the maximum percentage of protein and gluten in grain was identified in the varieties ‘Podarok Krymu’ (16.3%; 28.3%) and ‘Volnitsa’ (16.1%; 28.5%), which were sown after peas; and the same varieties showed good results (‘Podarok Krymu’ (16.2%; 27.4%) and ‘Volnitsa’ (15.7%; 27.8%)), when sown after sunflower.
Study of the dynamics of the coefficient of external friction of seeds crops with shell
Authors: Khozyaev Igor , Savenkov Dmitriy , Kirischiev Oleg , Kirischieva Ylia , Tupolskikh Tatiana
Published: June 2021

The article is devoted to the study of the coefficients of external friction of grain agricultural products-friction in static and dynamic modes, as the most important physical and mechanical characteristics of bulk materials. The description of carousel laboratory unit, program, methodology and results of studies on the practical determination of the coefficients of external friction for typical agricultural grain products according to the materials typical of the working bodies of the production machines. As a result of the research, it was found that in the range of linear velocities from 0 to 1.75 m/s, there is a change in the friction coefficients, which has a nonlinear character.
Evaluation of antigenic load in pregnant sows and identification of isoimmunization markers in offspring to increase productive and reproductive indicators for obtaining biologically safe organic products
Authors: Agarkov Alexander , Shulunova Angelina , Agarkov Nikolay , Sidelnikov Alexander , Nekrasova Irina
Published: June 2021

Immunological aspects of the relationship in the functional system “mother-fetus” are consciously important both in the scientific and practical direction of the life of living organisms. The formation of the main parameters of isoimmunization is an equivalent aspect in relation to the basics of the formation of artificial tolerance mechanisms. Changes in immunological reactivity to viral and bacterial antigens may cause increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. Different levels of this condition in newborn and adult animal organisms should be based on the fact that the fetus and newborn after birth first comes into contact with the antigen, while the adult body already has partial sensitization. Chronic carrier of pathogens in animals and their influence on the spread of the infectious process is an urgent problem of modern veterinary medicine. The possibility of vaccination in newborns is limited by the presence of maternal antibodies that have an immunosuppressive effect.The immunological relationship between the fetal mother’s body in a non-inbred population should be considered in two aspects: the effects caused by maternal antigens in the fetus; the effect of fetal antigens on the mother’s body. Level of functional reserves of the pregnant body is important in the prevention of intrauterine infection.
The use of sprouted barley grain in the diet of meat hens of the parent herd
Authors: Tatiyanicheva Olga , Popova Oksana , Khokhlova Alla , Maslova Natalya , Ovchinnikova Tatiyana
Published: June 2021

The use of sprouted barley grain for an adult poultry of a parent flock of meat production is of scientific and practical interest. According to the research methodology, we formed 4 groups of experimental birds, at the age of 140 days, 10 chickens and 10 cockerels in each. The test period lasted 280 days. The poultry of the control group received a standard complete feed containing barley grains in an amount of 20% by weight of the compound feed, in accordance with the adopted feeding scheme. Poultry of groups 2,3,4 received in addition to the main diet sprouted barley grain in the amount of 20 g per head. In this experiment, the question of the effectiveness of using sprouted grain, depending on the feeding regime, was considered. A positive trend was revealed when feeding sprouted grain in addition to a complete feed, in the evening.
The role of endogenous intoxication in pathogenetic mechanisms of heat stress in cattle
Authors: Rud Ekaterina , Kuzminova Elena , Semenenko Marina , Semenenko Ksenia , Abramov Andrey
Published: June 2021

The article presents the results of studies to identify the role of endogenous intoxication in the pathogenetic mechanisms of heat stress in cows in a comparative aspect between healthy animals and animals with hepatopathology. The obtained data indicate that in summer period in a farm located on the flat territory of the Krasnodar region the cattle are influenced by the heat stress. The relationship between the state of moderate heat stress in dairy cattle and the dynamics of a number of indicators characterizing the syndrome of endogenous intoxication of their body was revealed. The increase in the concentration of medium mass molecules (MMM) in healthy livestock was almost two times lower than in animals with fatty hepatosis. The obtained results can serve as a rationale for the development of an effective strategy for pharmacological correction of heat stress in cattle.
Feline coronavirus infection
Authors: Ermakov Aleksey , Lipilkina Tatyana , Lipilkin Pavel , Popov Igor
Published: June 2021

The main feature of feline coronavirus infection is its manifestation in the form of peritonitis. Feline infectious peritonitis is a highly lethal disease that lacks primary prevention and therapy. Therefore, feline infectious peritonitis is an epizootic problem in the near future. In our review, we demonstrate the current clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions for feline infectious peritonitis, as well as hypotheses of origin.
Use of big data technologies in animal husbandry
Authors: Sokolov Alexander , Batova Vera , Volkov Andrey
Published: June 2021

The growing interest in big data is driven by several identified factors. Nowadays, humanity uses a large number of equipment that generates multi-format signals and the amount of the generated information is growing exponentially, but the biggest part of this data is unstructured information. In this regard, choosing relevant information and achieving correct interpretations of its flow are becoming more relevant and complex issues. The technologies of Big data allow processing huge volumes and diverse compositions of information that can be regularly updated and located in different sources. The use of theses technologies leads to an increased work efficiency and competitiveness, and develops new knowledge. In this paper, the purpose of the study is to investigate and identify the opportunities of business processes’ digitization in agricultural production.
Features of fish breeding in water with electrochemical redox potential
Authors: Bakhareva Anna , Grozesku Yulia , Zhandalgarova Adelya , Sergeeva Yulia , Mazlov Alexey
Published: June 2021

One of the most significant factors in regulating the parameters of redox reactions occurring in any liquid medium is the electron activity or redox potential (RP) of this medium. Water that has a negative RP is easily absorbed by the body and replenishes the cells with lost negative charges and energy. As a result of the conducted studies, it was found that the hydrochemical parameters in the experimental and control variants were within the standard values for growing tilapia juveniles. It was found that the redox potential of the blood of juvenile tilapia has a negative value of - 96 mV. It is recorded that at a sufficiently low water temperature for thermophilic tilapia (21 °C) and at a negative RP (-212 mV), a high growth rate of fish is observed. It was found that the use of water with a redox potential of -100 mV is the most effective, since the linear weight gain of juveniles increases by 41 % in comparison with the control. Tilapia juveniles grown in structured water have the highest levels of hemoglobin (62-64 g/l) and total serum protein (13.3-14.3 g/l).
Effect of sodium orthovanadate on ovulation isolated ovarian follicles in Siberian Sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) In Vitro
Authors: Balashov Dmitry , Kovalev Konstantin
Published: June 2021

Effects of sodium orthovanadate on oocyte ovulation were examined during in vitro culture of Siberian sturgeon ovarian follicles from hibernating fish. It was shown that sodium orthovanadate stimulates ovulation of Siberian sturgeon oocytes in a dose-dependent manner. The stimulating or inhibitory effect of vanadate depends on the time of addition to the incubation medium. It was also shown that the stimulating effects of orthovanadate depend on the physiological status of hibernating females whose oocytes were isolated
Estimation the influence of vitamin-mineral complex on reproductive characteristics of sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus L.)
Authors: Ponomareva Elena , Grigoriev Vadim , Sorokina Marina , Kovaleva Angelika , Geraskin Peter , Tazhbaeva Dinara
Published: June 2021

The article provides data on the use of a complex preparation, which includes sodium selenite and tocopherol (vitamin E) in the form of injections for sterlet breeders (Acipenser ruthenus Linnaeus, 1758). Obtained data confirm the ability of E-selenium to regulate metabolic processes towards the formation of reproductive tissue by optimizing them. Positive dynamics is manifested during the gametogenesis, in particular, the number of individuals with reproductive cells at the IV stage of maturity is increased.
Health of the territory’s population: the main factors and trends in reducing their impact
Authors: Kurdyukov Vladimir , Agafonov Sergey , Zhikharev Dmitriy , Kanurny Sergey
Published: June 2021

An analysis of the situation in one of the regions of the Russian Federation was carried out on the basis of the official information available. Mortality in the region has been declining for several years until 2020. However, the trend continued in the largest city of the region. Comparison of the estimated pollutant emission masses in Rostov-on-Don with the maximum permissible load on the ecosystem shows their exceedance by the main pollutants by a tenfold, which indicates the importance of the environmental factor for public health. It was noted that under restrictions associated with the outbreak of infectious diseases, the environmental factor for the territory had declined and other factors were likely to increase. Different approaches can offer a range of tools, which implies the need for scientific discussion based on current developments. Refusal to explore alternatives creates moral risks for the informed party. The experience of 2020 allowed accumulating competencies and working out actions for the formation and implementation of a strategy of behaviour in the future. One of the dominant factors contributing to the improvement of public health is the preservation and strengthening of immunity. Common effective means of increasing immunity in urban environments are considered.
Synergism of the action of some stabilisers against the destruction of polymer materials
Authors: Zhukova Irina , Flik Evgeniya , Shubina Elena , Mishurov Vladimir , Kashparov Ivan
Published: June 2021

The process of thermal-oxidative degradation of polymer materials has been studied on the example of polyethylene in the presence of quinones and / or nitroxyl radicals. The synergistic effect of the positive action of a mixture of stabilisers from a number of quinones and nitroxyl radicals on the destructive process of polyethylene has been established. It has been shown that the rate of degradation has significantly slowed down when an equimolecular mixture of 4-acetylamino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylhexahydropyridine-1-oxyl and 2,6-di-tert-amyl-1,4-cyclohexadienone inhibitors has been introduced into the polymer. The kinetics of the initiated thermo-destructive process of polyethylene oxidation in the presence and absence of stabilisers has been studied. A mechanism of joint action of stabilisers based on their interaction with radicals and the breakage of radical chains, as well as a mechanism for the regeneration of stabilisers, has been proposed.
Problems of introducing a system of paid water use in irrigated agriculture in water-deficient regions of Russia (on the example of the Rostov region)
Authors: Kharitonov Grigory
Published: June 2021

In the face of climate change, regulation of water use is essential. On the example of the Rostov region, the necessity of introducing paid water for agricultural lands was considered. Rostov region is one of the largest producers of agricultural products, including wheat and sunflower. At the same time, this territory belongs to arid territories and needs irrigation of agricultural land. The Lower Don basin on the territory of the Rostov region includes the territory from the Tsimlyansk reservoir to the river mouth. The quality of water resources and river runoff of large waterways in the Don region is largely determined by small rivers, whose environmental problems are also associated with a high anthropogenic load, indicating intense economic activity. The article discusses the possibilities of using the system of payment for water use for agriculture. It is shown that the introduction of a system of tariffs for irrigation water, as well as the modernization of existing legal norms, will reduce the anthropogenic load on the ecosystem. The systemic regulation of water use should ultimately lead to the modernization of the system of irrigation canals and the cleaning of small rivers in the region.