bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Publishing classification systems on the Internet: representation and use
Authors: Kononova E. V. , Sukiasyan E. R.
Published: April 2021

Classification systems are published primarily in the book form, for various purposes and in different versions. They are identified by the number or year of publication. The authors propose another variant of maintaining classification systems, i.e. in the card format.

The authors discuss the issues of presenting classification schedules of popular classification systems on the Internet with special focus on their applications. They explain why privately owned classification systems, like Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and Universal Decimal Classification (UDC), are not published on the Internet, while the systems supported by government organizations (e.g. national libraries) are traditionally published openly. The authors provide the example of the Library of Congress Classification (LCC), which is the United States’ National Classification System and which is published on open access. The project of the open presentation of the Library-Bibliographical Classification (LBC) in several versions supplemented with indices on the website of the Russian State Library (RSL) is described in more detail. The possibilities for their use are analyzed.
Análise bibliométrica da produção científica utilizando microtomografia computadorizada apresentada nas reuniões anuais da Sociedade Brasileira de Pesquisa Odontológica
Authors: Costa Moan Jéfter Fernandes , Mendonça Alice Castro Guedes , Ferreira Leonardo de Freitas , Dantas Hugo Victor , Vieira Basilio Rodrigues , Dantas Eugenia Livia de Andrade
Published: April 2021

A microtomografia computadorizada utiliza o princípio de raios-x para formação de imagens bi e tridimensionais de amostras pequenas com alta resolução. O encontro anual da Sociedade Brasileira de Pesquisa Odontológica (SBPqO) é o maior evento de produção científica em Odontologia do país. O perfil dos trabalhos expostos pode identificar características da pesquisa científica produzida nacionalmente. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar retrospectivamente a produção científica envolvendo microtomografia computadorizada (Micro-CT) nos suplementos das reuniões do SBPqO de 2009 a 2018. Após leitura dos anais de todos os anos utilizando os descritores “Microtomografia Computadorizada”, “Micro-CT”, “MicroCT”, “mCT”, “mTC” e “µCT”, a amostra final foi um total de 348 estudos utilizando Micro-CT. O ano com maior número de resumos foi 2016 (22,7%; n=79). Os estudos foram mais frequentes na região Sudeste (86,2%; n=300), com mais estudos na área de endodontia (35,0%; n=122), sendo os elementos dentários humanos mais utilizados como amostras (53,7%; n=187). Houve aumento no número de pesquisas envolvendo Micro-CT, mas houve maior concentração para a região Sudeste e para a área de endodontia. Assim, destaca-se a necessidade de disseminação do conhecimento para que outras áreas também possam utilizar essa ferramenta e aumentar o escopo da produção odontológica.
Perfil de exames citopatológicos realizados pelo Centro de Saúde da Mulher de Piripiri, Piauí do período de outubro de 2018 a outubro de 2019
Authors: Lima Wybson Fontinele , Sousa Marcos Roberto Nascimento , Silva Marcelo da , Oliveira Ana Paula Melo , Barros Sabrina Sousa , Rocha Gabriel Mauriz de Moura , Araújo Rossandra Ribeiro Marreiros de , Carvalho Genyvana Criscya Garcia , Leite Neirigelson Ferreira de Barros , Oliveira Guilherme Antônio Lopes de
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Definir o perfil dos exames de citopatologia ginecológica realizados no Centro de Saúde da Mulher de outubro de 2018 a outubro de 2019. Metodologia: trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva de abordagem quantitativa e de natureza documental, no qual foram utilizados dados de registros secundários no período analisado, sendo consideradas as informações da quantidade de alterações vistas nos exames realizados, casos relacionados ao vírus HPV, a quantidade de biópsias realizadas e as faixas etárias das pacientes assistidas nos meses escolhidos. Resultados: observou-se que uma maior expressão de alterações ASC-US detectadas nos exames registrados, além de detecção de HPV em quase todos os meses analisados. Conclusão verifica-se a necessidade de acompanhar e dar valor aos dados e informações sobre os serviços assistenciais da área da citopatologia, para evitar subnotificações e proporcionar um maior controle desses dados reforçando a busca ativa de patologias relacionadas ao colo uterino, como o câncer.
Percepção dos idosos em tratamento de hemodiálise
Authors: Florencio Ana Claudia Barbosa , Alencar Bianca Teshima de , Marins Helena Gonçalves , Alencar Rafael Teshima de , Campos Samira Michel Garcia , Hartwig Shaiana Vilella
Published: April 2021

Conforme a população envelhece, aumenta o número de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, dentre elas a insuficiência renal crônica, que em fase terminal leva o paciente a realizar uma terapia renal substitutiva, um dos métodos é na forma de hemodiálise, um tratamento que mantêm a vida, porém exige do paciente conviver com as restrições impostas pelas condições de saúde e tratamento. O objetivo deste trabalho é reconhecer as principais dificuldades vivenciadas pelos idosos em tratamento de hemodiálise no município de Cáceres-MT. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, exploratório, de abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 16 idosos, entre os meses de agosto à novembro de 2020 para a entrevista utilizou-se um questionário semiestruturado contendo perguntas abertas. Entre os idosos entrevistados, 50% eram do sexo masculino e 50% feminino, com uma idade que variou de 60 a 81 anos. Após a análise das entrevistas obtivemos três categorias: percepções e vivências acerca do impacto da doença e o processo de aceitação do tratamento de hemodiálise; o idoso em tratamento de hemodiálise: principais dificuldades vivenciadas; e fé, família e equipe multiprofissional: enfrentamento da doença e apoio na adesão ao tratamento. Este estudo revelou que o idoso em hemodiálise convive com várias limitações e dificuldades, necessitando do total apoio dos familiares, sociedade, principalmente a equipe de enfermagem, ajudando-lhes na resolução das dificuldades encontradas, saber ouvi-los e compreendê-los em sua individualidade e magnitude, criando ações educativas para promover uma melhor qualidade de vida para que apesar das limitações estes idosos possam viver melhor.
Avaliação do desempenho de sistema de irrigação por gotejamento em cultivo de maracujá
Authors: Andrade Antonio Ricardo Santos de , Silva Edijailson Gonçalves da , Silva Edes Torres da , Pereira Rodrigo Gomes , Silva Jennifer Ferreira da , Costa Claudia Machado , Zamora Valentin Rubén Orcón , Cruzb Adiel Felipe da Silva , Ferreira Maria Emanuely da Silva , Silva Maria Gorete dos Santos , Noronha Danilo Araújo de
Published: April 2021

A constante avaliação do desempenho dos sistemas de irrigação torna-se necessária para verificar se as condições previstas no projeto condizem com o observado em campo. Desta forma, objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho de sistemas de irrigação localizada visando a indicar as medidas de uniformidade. O trabalho foi conduzido na Fazenda Areião, área experimental da ESALQ/USP, Piracicaba/SP, cultivada com maracujá. A avaliação baseou-se nos seguintes coeficientes de desempenho: coeficiente de uniformidade de Christiansen (CUC), coeficiente de uniformidade de distribuição (CUD), coeficiente de uniformidade estatístico (CUE) e eficiência de aplicação (Ea) dos dados de distribuição de volume de água obtidos de teste realizado em campo. No presente trabalho os resultados mostraram que CUC (89,86%), CUD (90,37%) e CUE (99,88%) estão dentro dos padrões de classificação de desempenho dos emissores e eficiência média de aplicação foi de 83,03%, indicando que a avaliação de desempenho do sistema de irrigação por gotejamento, encontra-se em perfeitas condições de operação.
Coautoria na produção científica em Programa de Pós-graduação na Forma Associativa: Uma análise de Redes Sociais
Authors: Souza Samuel Fernando Machado Alves , Cruz Maria do Socorro Batista de Jesus , Oliveira Manoel Messias Santos de , Almeida Clayton Silva de , Batista Wilson Otto Gomes , Barreto Maria Raidalva Nery , Santos Filho Eudaldo Francisco dos , Araújo José Mário , Sampaio Romilson Lopes , Souza Antônio Carlos dos Santos
Published: April 2021

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar a rede de coautoria formada a partir do número de publicações e interações entre os autores do Programa de Pós-Graduação Multi-institucional em Difusão do Conhecimento – (PPGDC) para verificar se a partir da entrada de novos docentes e discentes houve um aumento no número de produções acadêmicas e de coautorias no período de 2017-2019. A metodologia utilizada se caracteriza por uma abordagem exploratória, cujos métodos adotados são a análise de redes sociais e a revisão de literatura que investigou estudos sobre o conceito de ARS de coautoria e produção científica, utilizando os motores de busca: Science Direct e Google Scholar. A coleta dos dados ocorreu através da Plataforma Sucupira da CAPES. Os relatórios foram disponibilizados em formato “.xls”, com o uso do software Microsoft Excel, e a partir das análises, tornou-se possível a criação e composição da rede de produção intelectual e coautoria do PPGDC, através das ferramentas Pajek e Gephi. Como resultado principal, foi possível observar que, em virtude da introdução de novos participantes ao Programa, houve um acréscimo do número de autores e relações entre os mesmos. Apesar disso, nota-se que a rede é constituída por grandes grupos conectados, que publicam intensamente entre seus pares, mas com pouca conexão entre esses grupos, evidenciando a necessidade de uma maior cooperação e colaboração científica.
PERSPECTIVAS DA FELICIDADE
Authors:   UEMG - Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais - Unidade Frutal, CARVALHO Isaar Soares de
Published: April 2021

This article examines the various interpretations of the theme of happiness, placed under an interdisciplinary perspective, both in relation to their presence in culture in general and in Philosophy, Politics, Religion, Literature and Music. Our main objective is to contribute to the study of such a vast and multidisciplinary topic. Methodologically, a bibliographic review is made in physical and digital collections, starting from the assumptions inscribed in the various forms of interpretation of the concept of happiness, especially in relation to the historical and social conditions of human existence. As a result of the research, we saw that happiness is a broad concept and finding it fully is rare, since it cannot be interpreted literally, because what goes well is relative, partial, and the concept of wholeness is more of an ideal than that a reality.
Improvement of corner separation prediction using an explicit non-linear RANS closure
Authors: Sun Wei , Xu Liping
Published: April 2021

In this paper, an investigation into the effect of explicit non-linear turbulence modelling on anisotropic turbulence flows is presented. Such anisotropic turbulence flows are typified in the corner separations in turbomachinery. The commonly used Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) turbulence closures, in which the Reynolds stress tensor is modelled by the Boussinesq (linear) constitutive relation with the mean strain-rate tensor, often struggle to predict corner separation with reasonable accuracy. The physical reason for this modelling deficiency is partially attributable to the Boussinesq hypothesis which does not count for the turbulence anisotropy, whilst in a corner separation, the flow is subject to three-dimensional (3D) shear and the effects due to turbulence anisotropy may not be ignored. In light of this, an explicit non-linear Reynolds stress-strain constitutive relation developed by Menter et al. is adopted as a modification of the Reynolds-stress anisotropy. Coupled with the Menter’s hybrid "k-ω" ⁄"k-ε" turbulence model, this non-linear constitutive relation gives significantly improved predictions for the corner separation flows within a compressor cascade, at both the design and off-design flow conditions. The mean vorticity field are studied to further investigate the physical reasons for these improvements, highlighting its potential for the widespread applications in the corner separation prediction.
Myeloid MKL1 Disseminates Cues to Promote Cardiac Hypertrophy in Mice
Authors: Liu Li , Zhao Qianwen , Lin Lin , Yang Guang , Yu Liming , Zhuo Lili , Yang Yuyu , Xu Yong
Published: April 2021

Cardiac hypertrophy is a key pathophysiological process in the heart in response to stress cues. Although taking place in cardiomyocytes, the hypertrophic response is influenced by other cell types, both within the heart and derived from circulation. In the present study we investigated the myeloid-specific role of megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1) in cardiac hypertrophy. Following transverse aortic constriction (TAC), myeloid MKL1 conditional knockout (MFCKO) mice exhibit an attenuated phenotype of cardiac hypertrophy compared to the WT mice. In accordance, the MFCKO mice were protected from excessive cardiac inflammation and fibrosis as opposed to the WT mice. Conditioned media collected from macrophages enhanced the pro-hypertrophic response in cardiomyocytes exposed to endothelin in an MKL1-dependent manner. Of interest, expression levels of macrophage derived miR-155, known to promote cardiac hypertrophy, were down-regulated in the MFCKO mice compared to the WT mice. MKL1 depletion or inhibition repressed miR-155 expression in macrophages. Mechanistically, MKL1 interacted with NF-κB to activate miR-155 transcription in macrophages. In conclusion, our data suggest that MKL1 may contribute to pathological hypertrophy via regulating macrophage-derived miR-155 transcription.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Non-syndromic Orofacial Clefts in a Multiethnic Sample of Families and Controls Identifies Novel Regions
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Nandita , Feingold Eleanor , Moreno-Uribe Lina , Wehby George , Valencia-Ramirez Luz Consuelo , Muñeton Claudia P. Restrepo , Padilla Carmencita , Deleyiannis Frederic , Christensen Kaare , Poletta Fernando A. , Orioli Ieda M. , Hecht Jacqueline T. , Buxó Carmen J. , Butali Azeez , Adeyemo Wasiu L. , Vieira Alexandre R. , Shaffer John R. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Weinberg Seth M. , Leslie Elizabeth J. , Marazita Mary L.
Published: April 2021

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most prevalent craniofacial birth defects worldwide and create a significant public health burden. The majority of OFCs are non-syndromic and vary in prevalence by ethnicity. Africans have the lowest prevalence of OFCs (~ 1/2,500), Asians have the highest prevalence (~1/500), Europeans and Latin Americans lie somewhere in the middle (~1/800 and 1/900, respectively). Thus, ethnicity appears to be a major determinant of the risk of developing OFC. The Pittsburgh Orofacial Clefts Multiethnic study was designed to explore this ethnic variance, comprising a large number of families and individuals (~12,000 individuals) from multiple populations worldwide: US and Europe, Asians, mixed Native American/Caucasians, and Africans. In this current study, we analyzed 2,915 OFC cases, 6,044 unaffected individuals related to the OFC cases, and 2,685 controls with no personal or family history of OFC. Participants were grouped by their ancestry into African, Asian, European, and Central and South American subsets, and genome-wide association run on the combined sample as well as the four ancestry-based groups. We observed 22 associations to cleft lip with or without cleft palate at 18 distinct loci withp-values < 1e-06, including 10 with genome-wide significance (<5e-08), in the combined sample and within ancestry groups. Three loci - 2p12 (rs62164740,p= 6.27e-07), 10q22.2 (rs150952246,p= 3.14e-07), and 10q24.32 (rs118107597,p= 8.21e-07) are novel. Nine were in or near known OFC loci -PAX7, IRF6, FAM49A, DCAF4L2, 8q24.21,NTN1, WNT3-WNT9B, TANC2, andRHPN2. The majority of the associations were observed only in the combined sample, European, and Central and South American groups. We investigated whether the observed differences in association strength were (a) purely due to sample sizes, (b) due to systematic allele frequency difference at the population level, or (c) due to the fact certain OFC-causing variants confer different amounts of risk depending on ancestral origin, by comparing effect sizes to observed allele frequencies of the effect allele in our ancestry-based groups. While some of the associations differ due to systematic differences in allele frequencies between groups, others show variation in effect size despite similar frequencies across ancestry groups.
Src Homology 2 Domain-Containing Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Promotes Inflammation and Accelerates Osteoarthritis by Activating β-Catenin
Authors: Tao Tenghui , Luo Danni , Gao Chenghao , Liu Hui , Lei Zehua , Liu Wenbin , Zhou Chuankun , Qi Dahu , Deng Zhenhan , Sun Xuying , Xiao Jun
Published: April 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic articular disease characterized by cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling and osteophyte formation. Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase (SHP2) has not been fully investigated in the pathogenesis of OA. In this study, we found that SHP2 expression was significantly increased after interleukin-1β (IL-1β) treatment in primary mouse chondrocytes. Inhibition of SHP2 using siRNA reduced MMP3, MMP13 levels, but increased AGGRECAN, COL2A1, SOX9 expressionin vitro. On the contrary, overexpression of SHP2 exerted the opposite results and promoted cartilage degradation. Mechanistically, SHP2 activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling possibly through directly binding to β-catenin. SHP2 also induced inflammation through activating Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways. Ourin vivostudies showed that SHP2 knockdown effectively delayed cartilage destruction and reduced osteophyte formation in the mouse model of OA induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Altogether, our study identifies that SHP2 is a novel and potential therapeutic target of OA.
Proteomic Changes Associated With Sperm Fertilizing Ability in Meat-Type Roosters
Authors: Vitorino Carvalho Anaïs , Soler Laura , Thélie Aurore , Grasseau Isabelle , Cordeiro Luiz , Tomas Daniel , Teixeira-Gomes Ana-Paula , Labas Valérie , Blesblois Elisabeth
Published: April 2021

The molecular basis of male fertility remains unclear, especially in chickens, where decades of genetic selection increased male fertility variability as a side effect. As transcription and translation are highly limited in sperm, proteins are key molecules defining their functionality, making proteomic approaches one of the most adequate methods to investigate sperm capacity. In this context, it is interesting to combine complementary proteomic approaches to maximize the identification of proteins related to sperm-fertilizing ability. In the present study, we aimed at identifying proteins related to fertility in meat-type roosters, showing fertility variability. Fertile roosters (fertility rates higher than 70% after artificial insemination) differed from subfertile roosters (fertility rates lower than 40%) in their sperm mass motility. Fertile and subfertile sperm protein contents were compared using two complementary label-free quantitative proteomic methods: Intact Cell MALDI-TOF-Mass Spectrometry and GeLC-MS/MS. Combining the two strategies, 57 proteins were identified as differentially abundant. Most of them were described for the first time as differentially abundant according to fertility in this species. These proteins were involved in various molecular pathways including flagellum integrity and movement, mitochondrial functions, sperm maturation, and storage in female tract as well as oocyte–sperm interaction. Collectively, our data improved our understanding of chicken sperm biology by revealing new actors involved in the complexity of male fertility that depends on multiple cell functions to reach optimal rates. This explains the inability of reductionist in vitro fertility testing in predicting male fertility and suggests that the use of a combination of markers is a promising approach.
Impact of Thrombocytopenia in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: A Propensity-Matched Comparison of 190 Consecutive Watchman Implantations
Authors: Zhang Xiaochun , Jin Qinchun , Hu Jialu , Kong Dehong , Pan Cuizhen , Chen Dandan , Chen Shasha , Li MIngfei , Zhou Daxin , Ge Junbo
Published: April 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to provide data on the long-term efficacy and safety of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic thrombocytopenia (cTCP).

Methods: Between January 2016 and December 2018, a total of 32 AF patients with thrombocytopenia (platelet count <100*10∧9/L) undergoing LAAO at our center were identified and their outcomes were compared with a propensity-matched cohort (match ratio 1:5) of patients without cTCP who had also been indicated for LAAO.

Results: Between the cTCP patients and the control group, no difference was found on the incidence of stroke (0 vs. 3.13%, p = 0.592), systematic thromboembolisation (0 vs. 0.63%, p > 0.9) and device-related thrombus (DRT) (3.13 vs. 2.50%, p > 0.9). Major (12.50 vs. 3.75%, p = 0.065) and minor bleeding (15.63 vs. 1.25%, p = 0.002) was more frequent in cTCP patients but no statistical difference was reached in major bleeding. Moreover, thrombocytopenia was also identified as an independent predictor of any bleeding events (OR: 8.150, 95% CI: 2.579–25.757, p < 0.001), while an inverse relationship between higher absolute platelet count and stroke events was revealed (OR: 1.015; 95% CI: 1.002~1.029, p = 0.022). However, in both groups we saw a significant reduction in observed annualized rates of non-procedural complications compared with the predicted values. In the cTCP and control groups, clinical thromboembolism was reduced by 100 and 74.32%, and major bleeding by 42.47 and 71.67%, respectively.

Conclusion: Our preliminary results indicate that LAAO using the Watchman device could be a safe and effective means of preventing stroke in AF patients with or without thrombocytopenia, but bleeding complications should be monitored intensively in cTCP patients.
Leading an Assessment Reform: Ensuring a Whole-School Approach for Decision-Making
Authors: Alonzo Dennis , Leverett Jade , Obsioma Elisha
Published: April 2021

The ability of teachers to use assessment data to inform decisions related to learning and teaching defines teaching effectiveness. However, to maximise the benefits of teacher decision-making, there is a need to ensure that all teachers across the school are supported to engage in a whole-school approach to ensuring that all students across different stages are supported. This paper reports on a case study of a school in building an assessment culture with a strong focus on using a range of data for teacher decision-making. We used an auto-ethnography to reflect on our experiences in leading this assessment reform. Using the lens of activity theory, we have identified structural, organisational, social and behavioral factors that contribute to the success of the program.
Equity Leadership for English Learners During COVID-19: Early Lessons
Authors: Lavadenz Magaly , Kaminski Linda R. G. , Armas Elvira G. , López Grecya V.
Published: April 2021

This article provides the findings of an exploratory, qualitative study on distance learning policies and practices from a purposeful sample of five California school districts and 25 district and school leaders with large numbers and/or larger percentages of current or former English Learners. To understand the extent to which leaders address English Learners’/Emergent Bilinguals’ (EL/EM) needs during the pandemic, we posed the following research question: What are leaders’ local policies and practices in designing and implementing distance learning to promote equity for English Learners? We gathered three key district policy documents across three moments during the pandemic: (1) COVID-19 Operations Written Reports (Spring 2020), (2) School Reopening Plans (Summer 2020), and (3) Learning Continuity and Attendance Plans (Fall 2020). We also conducted interviews and triangulated data sources using grounded theory to analyze and understand how equity is framed and implemented. Data triangulation and iterative rounds of coding allowed us to identify three inter-related findings: (1) leading in the crisis of connectivity and bridging the digital divide; (2) maximizing diverse ELs’ learning experiences; and, (3) building from collaborative leadership cultures to collaborative virtual leadership cultures. Using these key findings, we conceptualized the framework for equity leadership for English Learners to address the needs of this underserved population. We conclude with a call for further examination, in both leadership preparation as well as in policy implementation research.
Novel Roles of Follistatin/Myostatin in Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling and Adipose Browning: Potential for Therapeutic Intervention in Obesity Related Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Pervin Shehla , Reddy Srinivasa T. , Singh Rajan
Published: April 2021

Obesity is a global health problem and a major risk factor for several metabolic conditions including dyslipidemia, diabetes, insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. Obesity develops from chronic imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. Stimulation of cellular energy burning process has the potential to dissipate excess calories in the form of heatviathe activation of uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) in white and brown adipose tissues. Recent studies have shown thatactivationof transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway significantly contributes to the development of obesity, and blockade or inhibition is reported to protect from obesity by promoting white adipose browning and increasing mitochondrial biogenesis. Identification of novel compounds that activate beige/brown adipose characteristics to burn surplus calories and reduce excess storage of fat are actively sought in the fight against obesity. In this review, we present recent developments in our understanding of key modulators of TGF-β signaling pathways including follistatin (FST) and myostatin (MST) in regulating adipose browning and brown adipose mass and activity. While MST is a key ligand for TGF-β family, FST can bind and regulate biological activity of several TGF-β superfamily members including activins, bone morphogenic proteins (BMP) and inhibins. Here, we review the literature supporting the critical roles for FST, MST and other proteins in modulating TGF-β signaling to influence beige and brown adipose characteristics. We further review the potential therapeutic utility of FST for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Identification of Active Surface Species in Molten Carbonates Using in situ Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wu Tao , Huang Kevin
Published: April 2021

Here we report the results of a study on active surface species of a pristine and modified (Li-Na)2CO3 eutectic using in situ Raman spectroscopy technique. The effects of gas compositions, temperature, time, and alkaline earth have been systematically studied. The species of CO42–, HCO4–, and C2O52– are identified as the three major active species on the surface of (Li-Na)2CO3 eutectic by a combined Raman spectroscopy and theoretical density functional theory calculations. The results further reveal that CO42–, HCO4–, and C2O52– are preferably formed in the presence of O2, H2O, and high CO2 concentration. With the addition of Ba to the pristine (Li-Na)2CO3 eutectic, the Raman CO42–/HCO4– shifts become more pronounced.
Liquid PRF Reduces the Inflammatory Response and Osteoclastogenesis in Murine Macrophages
Authors: Kargarpour Zahra , Nasirzade Jila , Panahipour Layla , Miron Richard J. , Gruber Reinhard
Published: April 2021

Macrophage activation and osteoclastogenesis are hallmarks of inflammatory osteolysis and may be targeted by the local application of liquid platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). Liquid PRF is produced by a hard spin of blood in the absence of clot activators and anticoagulants, thereby generating an upper platelet-poor plasma (PPP) layer, a cell-rich buffy coat layer (BC; termed concentrated-PRF or C-PRF), and the remaining red clot (RC) layer. Heating PPP has been shown to generate an albumin gel (Alb-gel) that when mixed back with C-PRF generates Alb-PRF having extended working properties when implanted in vivo. Evidence has demonstrated that traditional solid PRF holds a potent anti-inflammatory capacity and reduces osteoclastogenesis. Whether liquid PRF is capable of also suppressing an inflammatory response and the formation of osteoclasts remains open. In the present study, RAW 264.7 and primary macrophages were exposed to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), lactoferrin, and agonists of Toll-like receptors (TLR3 and TLR7) in the presence or absence of lysates prepared by freeze-thawing of liquid PPP, BC, Alb-gel, and RC. For osteoclastogenesis, primary macrophages were exposed to receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and human transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in the presence or absence of PPP, BC, Alb-gel, RC lysates and hemoglobin. We show here that it is mainly the lysates prepared from PPP and BC that consistently reduced the agonist-induced expression of interleukin 6 (IL6) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) in macrophages, as determined by RT-PCR and immunoassay. With respect to osteoclastogenesis, lysates from PPP and BC but also from RC, similar to hemoglobin, reduced the expression of osteoclast marker genes tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K, as well as TRAP histochemical staining. These findings suggest that liquid PRF holds a potent in vitro heat-sensitive anti-inflammatory activity in macrophages that goes along with an inhibition of osteoclastogenesis.
The mTOR Deficiency in Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Protects Mouse Cardiac Allografts by Inducing Allograft Tolerance
Authors: Li Jiawei , Chen Juntao , Zhang Mingnan , Zhang Chao , Wu Renyan , Yang Tianying , Qiu Yue , Liu Jingjing , Zhu Tongyu , Zhang Yi , Rong Ruiming
Published: April 2021

Background

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can prevent allograft rejection and induce immune tolerance in transplantation models. Previous studies have demonstrated that inhibition of mTOR signaling can enhance the MDSC protective effect in heart transplantation (HTx) by promoting MDSC expansion. In addition, mTOR inhibition is related to autophagy. The present study investigated the protective mechanism of mTOR-deficient monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSCs) in mouse HTx.

Methods

Myeloid-specific mTOR conditional knockout mice were generated to obtain mTOR−/− M-MDSCs. The proliferation and immunosuppressive function of mTOR−/− M-MDSCs were determined by flow cytometry and T cell proliferation assays. The mTOR−/− M-MDSC intracellular autophagy levels were determined using western blotting and electron microscopy. RNAseq analysis was performed for wild-type (WT) and mTOR−/− M-MDSCs. Allogeneic HTx mouse model was established and treated with WT or mTOR−/− M-MDSCs. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry assays were performed to determine WT and mTOR−/− M-MDSC-induced immune tolerance.

Results

The mTOR deficiency promoted M-MDSC differentiation and enhanced intracellular autophagy levels in vivo and in vitro. mTOR deficiency also enhanced the immunosuppressive function of M-MDSCs. In addition, infusing with WT and mTOR−/− M-MDSCs prolonged cardiac allograft survival and established immune tolerance in recipient mice by inhibiting T cell activation and inducing regulatory T cells.

Conclusion

mTOR deficiency enhances the immunosuppressive function of M-MDSCs and prolongs mouse cardiac allograft survival.
Migratory Behavior of an Eastern North Pacific Gray Whale From Baja California Sur to Chirikov Basin, Alaska
Authors: Urbán R Jorge , Jiménez-López Esther , Guzmán Héctor M. , Viloria-Gómora Lorena
Published: April 2021

Eastern gray whales undertake annual migrations between summer feeding grounds in the Bering and Chukchi Seas and winter breeding and calving lagoons in the west coast of Baja California, Mexico. On February 12, 2017, three adult gray whales were sighted at San José del Cabo, Mexico, in which one individual, named “María,” was tagged using a satellite telemetry transmitter (PTT). The PTT stopped the signal on July 11, 2017. María traveled 11,387 km during 149 days from San José del Cabo to the Chirikov Basin. The migration route was aligned close to the coastline (<23 km) from February to April. After passing Kodiak Island in May, María started traveling far away from the coastline (>70 km) into the Bering Sea, including the Chirikov Basin. During March, April, and May, María traveled long distances at relatively high speeds, in contrast to the lower speed during February, early March, and the arrival time to the feeding areas in May, June, and July. The total distance traveled by María during its migration from Ojo de Liebre Lagoon to the Chirikov Basin was 8,863 km during 61.5 days with an average speed of 5.5 km h–1; this excludes the 14 days and 591 km that María spent feeding on the coast of Kodiak Island in late April. The information provided by this tagged whale documents a single whales’ migration, which is consistent with previous studies and constitutes the most complete northbound reported migration of an eastern gray whale.
Case Report: Emphysematous Cystitis and Pyelonephritis Induced by Uterine Prolapse in a Subject With Untreated Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Iwamoto Hideyuki , Anno Takatoshi , Takenouchi Haruka , Takahashi Kaio , Horiya Megumi , Kimura Yukiko , Kawasaki Fumiko , Kaku Kohei , Tomoda Koichi , Uehara Shinya , Kaneto Hideaki
Published: April 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often accompanied by a lot of complications due to chronic hyperglycemia and inflammation. Emphysematous cystitis and pyelonephritis are rare types of urinary tract infections and are often complicated with DM. Herein, we report a case of emphysematous cystitis and pyelonephritis complicated with untreated DM. In addition, this case was very rare and interesting in that her emphysematous cystitis and pyelonephritis were induced by severe uterine prolapse, obstructive uropathy and urination disorders. Both uterine prolapse and DM should be appropriately treated because both can lead to the development of emphysematous cystitis and pyelonephritis.
Colistin-Resistant mcr-1-Positive Escherichia coli ST131-H22 Carrying blaCTX–M–15 and qnrB19 in Agricultural Soil
Authors: Lopes Ralf , Furlan João Pedro Rueda , dos Santos Lucas David Rodrigues , Gallo Inara Fernanda Lage , Stehling Eliana Guedes
Published: April 2021

The pandemic Escherichia coli sequence type 131 (ST131) carrying plasmid-mediated colistin resistance mcr genes has emerged worldwide causing extraintestinal infections, with lineages belonging to three major clades (A, B, and C). Clade B is the most prevalent in animals, contaminating associated meat products, and can be transmitted zoonotically. However, the blaCTX–M–15 gene has only been associated with C2 subclade so far. In this study, we performed a genomic investigation of an E. coli (strain S802) isolated from a kale crop in Brazil, which exhibited a multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile to clinically significant antimicrobials (i.e., polymyxin, broad-spectrum cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones). Whole-genome sequencing analysis revealed that the S802 strain belonged to serotype O25:H4, ST131/CC131, phylogenetic group B2, and virotype D5. Furthermore, S802 carried the clade B-associated fimH22 allele, genes encoding resistance to clinically important antimicrobials, metals, and biocides, and was phylogenetically related to human, avian, and swine ST131-H22 strains. Additionally, IncHI2-IncQ1, IncF [F2:A-:B1], and ColE1-like plasmids were identified harboring mcr-1.1, blaCTX–M–15, and qnrB19, respectively. The emergence of the E. coli ST131-H22 sublineage carrying mcr-1.1, blaCTX–M–15, and qnrB19 in agricultural soil represents a threat to food and environmental safety. Therefore, a One Health approach to genomic surveillance studies is required to effectively detect and limit the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and their resistance genes.
Genome-Wide Changes of Regulatory Non-Coding RNAs Reveal Pollen Development Initiated at Ecodormancy in Peach
Authors: Yu Jiali , Bennett Dennis , Dardick Christopher , Zhebentyayeva Tetyana , Abbott Albert G. , Liu Zongrang , Staton Margaret E.
Published: April 2021

Bud dormancy is under the regulation of complex mechanisms including genetic and epigenetic factors. To study the function of regulatory non-coding RNAs in winter dormancy release, we analyzed the small RNA and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression from peach (Prunus persica) floral buds in endodormancy, ecodormancy and bud break stages. Small RNAs underwent a major shift in expression primarily between dormancy and flowering with specific pairs of microRNAs and their mRNA target genes undergoing coordinated differential expression. From endodormancy to ecodormancy, ppe-miR6285 was significantly upregulated while its target gene, an ASPARAGINE-RICH PROTEIN involved in the regulation of abscisic acid signaling, was downregulated. At ecodormancy, ppe-miR2275, a homolog of meiosis-specific miR2275 across angiosperms, was significantly upregulated, supporting microsporogenesis in anthers at a late stage of dormancy. The expression of 785 lncRNAs, unlike the overall expression pattern in the small RNAs, demonstrated distinctive expression signatures across all dormancy and flowering stages. We predicted that a subset of lncRNAs were targets of microRNAs and found 18 lncRNA/microRNA target pairs with both differentially expressed across time points. The genome-wide differential expression and network analysis of non-coding RNAs and mRNAs from the same tissues provide new candidate loci for dormancy regulation and suggest complex noncoding RNA interactions control transcriptional regulation across these key developmental time points.
N6-Methyladenosine, DNA Repair, and Genome Stability
Authors: Qu Fei , Tsegay Pawlos S. , Liu Yuan
Published: April 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in mRNAs and non-coding RNAs is a newly identified epitranscriptomic mark. It provides a fine-tuning of gene expression to serve as a cellular response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. m6A is involved in regulating genes in multiple cellular pathways and functions, including circadian rhythm, cell renewal, differentiation, neurogenesis, immunity, among others. Disruption of m6A regulation is associated with cancer, obesity, and immune diseases. Recent studies have shown that m6A can be induced by oxidative stress and DNA damage to regulate DNA repair. Also, deficiency of the m6A eraser, fat mass obesity-associated protein (FTO) can increase cellular sensitivity to genotoxicants. These findings shed light on the novel roles of m6A in modulating DNA repair and genome integrity and stability through responding to DNA damage. In this mini-review, we discuss recent progress in the understanding of a unique role of m6As in mRNAs, lncRNAs, and microRNAs in DNA damage response and regulation of DNA repair and genome integrity and instability.
Human Cord Blood Derived Unrestricted Somatic Stem Cells Restore Aquaporin Channel Expression, Reduce Inflammation and Inhibit the Development of Hydrocephalus After Experimentally Induced Perinatal Intraventricular Hemorrhage
Authors: Purohit Deepti , Finkel Dina A. , Malfa Ana , Liao Yanling , Ivanova Larisa , Kleinman George M. , Hu Furong , Shah Shetal , Thompson Carl , Joseph Etlinger , Wolin Michael S. , Cairo Mitchell S. , La Gamma Edmund F. , Vinukonda Govindaiah
Published: April 2021

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a severe complication of preterm birth associated with cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and commonly, accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Histologically, IVH leads to subependymal gliosis, fibrosis, and disruption of the ependymal wall. Importantly, expression of aquaporin channels 1 and 4 (AQP1 and AQP4) regulating respectively, secretion and absorption of cerebrospinal fluids is altered with IVH and are associated with development of post hemorrhagic hydrocephalus. Human cord blood derived unrestricted somatic stem cells (USSCs), which we previously demonstrated to reduce the magnitude of hydrocephalus, as having anti-inflammatory, and beneficial behavioral effects, were injected into the cerebral ventricles of rabbit pups 18 h after glycerol-induced IVH. USSC treated IVH pups showed a reduction in ventricular size when compared to control pups at 7 and 14 days (both, P < 0.05). Histologically, USSC treatment reduced cellular infiltration and ependymal wall disruption. In the region of the choroid plexus, immuno-reactivity for AQP1 and ependymal wall AQP4 expression were suppressed after IVH but were restored following USSC administration. Effects were confirmed by analysis of mRNA from dissected choroid plexus and ependymal tissue. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) isoforms, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) mRNA, as well as protein levels, were significantly increased following IVH and restored towards normal with USSC treatment (P < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-10 (IL-10) mRNA was reduced in IVH, but significantly recovered after USSC injection (P < 0.05). In conclusion, USSCs exerted anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing both TGF-β specific isoforms, CTGF and MMP-9, recovered IL-10, restored aquaporins expression towards baseline, and reduced hydrocephalus. These results support the possibility of the use of USSCs to reduce IVH consequences in prematurity.
Frequency, Progression, and Current Management: Report of 16 New Cases of Nonfunctional Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and Comparison With Previous Reports
Authors: Mowrey Kate , Northrup Hope , Rougeau Peyton , Hashmi S. Shahrukh , Krueger Darcy A. , Ebrahimi-Fakhari Daniel , Towbin Alexander J. , Trout Andrew T. , Capal Jamie K. , Franz David Neal , Rodriguez-Buritica David
Published: April 2021

Background: Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic condition that causes benign tumors to grow in multiple organ systems. Nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) are a rare clinical feature of TSC with no specific guidelines outlined for clinical management at this time. Our purpose is to calculate the frequency of nonfunctional PNETs as well as characterize the presentation, current clinical management, and assess the impact of systemic mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) on nonfunctional PNETs in TSC.

Methods: This retrospective chart review was performed by a query of the TS Alliance's Natural History Database and the Cincinnati Children's Hospital TSC Database for patients with nonfunctional PNET. Clinical data from these two groups was summarized for patients identified to have a nonfunctional PNET and compared to previously reported cases with TSC and nonfunctional PNETs.

Results: Our calculated frequency of nonfunctional PNETs is 0.65%. We identified 16 individuals, nine males and seven females, with a median age of 18.0 years (interquartile range: −15.5 to 25.5). Just over half (56.3%, n = 9) of the patients provided results from genetic testing. Six had pathogenic variants in TSC2 whereas three had pathogenic variants in TSC1. The average age at PNET diagnosis was 15.0 years (range: 3–46 years). Almost all individuals were diagnosed with a PNET during routine TSC surveillance, 56.3% (n = 9) by MRI, 12.5% (n = 2) by CT, 25% (n = 4) by ultrasound, and 6.2% (n = 1) through a surgical procedure. Follow up after diagnosis involved 68.8% (n = 11) having serial imaging and nine of the sixteen individuals proceeding with surgical removal of the PNET. Eight individuals had a history of using systemic mTOR inhibitors. Tumor growth rate was slightly less in individuals taking an mTOR inhibitor (−0.8 mm/yr, IQR: −2.3 to 2.2) than those without (1.6 mm/yr; IQR: −0.99 to 5.01, p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Nonfunctional PNETs occurred at younger ages in our TSC cohort and more commonly compared to ages and prevalence reported for the general population. PNETs in patients on systemic mTOR inhibitors had lower rates of growth. The outcome of this study provides preliminary evidence supporting the use of mTOR inhibitor therapy in conjunction with serial imaging as medical management for nonfunctional PNETs as an alternative option to invasive surgical removal.
Premature Mortality, Risk Factors, and Causes of Death Following Childhood-Onset Neurological Impairments: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abuga Jonathan A. , Kariuki Symon M. , Kinyanjui Samson M. , Boele van Hensbroek Michael , Newton Charles R.
Published: April 2021

Background: Neurological impairment (NI) and disability are associated with reduced life expectancy, but the risk and magnitude of premature mortality in children vary considerably across study settings. We conducted a systematic review to estimate the magnitude of premature mortality following childhood-onset NI worldwide and to summarize known risk factors and causes of death.

Methods: We searched various databases for published studies from their inception up to 31st October 2020. We included all cohort studies that assessed the overall risk of mortality in individuals with childhood-onset epilepsy, intellectual disability (ID), and deficits in hearing, vision and motor functions. Comparative measures of mortality such as the standardized mortality ratio (SMR), risk factors and causes were synthesized quantitatively under each domain of impairment. This review is registered on the PROSPERO database (registration number CRD42019119239).

Results: The search identified 2,159 studies, of which 24 studies were included in the final synthesis. Twenty-two (91.7%) studies originated from high-income countries (HICs). The median SMR was higher for epilepsy compared with ID (7.1 [range 3.1–22.4] vs. 2.9 [range 2.0–11.6]). In epilepsy, mortality was highest among younger age groups, comorbid neurological disorders, generalized seizures (at univariable levels), untreatable epilepsy, soon after diagnosis and among cases with structural/metabolic types, but there were no differences by sex. Most deaths (87.5%) were caused by non-epilepsy-related causes. For ID, mortality was highest in younger age groups and girls had a higher risk compared to the general population. Important risk factors for premature mortality were severe-to-profound severity, congenital disorders e.g., Down Syndrome, comorbid neurological disorders and adverse pregnancy and perinatal events. Respiratory infections and comorbid neurological disorders were the leading causes of death in ID. Mortality is infrequently examined in impairments of vision, hearing and motor functions.

Summary: The risk of premature mortality is elevated in individuals with childhood-onset NI, particularly in epilepsy and lower in ID, with a need for more studies for vision, hearing, and motor impairments. Survival in NI could be improved through interventions targeting modifiable risk factors and underlying causes.