bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIRECTIONS OF ADAPTATION OF DOMESTIC ENTERPRISES TO CHANGING FINANCIAL CONDITIONS
Authors:   State Tax University, Ananieva Yuliia
Published: October 2023

The article considers the key aspects of adaptation of enterprises to changing financial conditions in the conditions of globalization and digital transformation. The authors emphasize the importance of analyzing the external environment, optimizing financial management, diversifying funding sources, as well as the role of internal audit and control in the process of enterprise adaptation. Special attention is paid to the challenges and opportunities that arise for enterprises as a result of digital transformation. The article is based on the analysis of modern research, publications and practical experience of companies. The research findings can be useful for company managers, financial directors, auditors and other specialists in the field of management and finance. The article also emphasizes the need for continuous training and development of personnel in the context of adaptation to digital innovations. Education and training of employees are identified as key elements of successful digital transformation. The authors also consider the issue of corporate culture and its influence on the process of adaptation of the enterprise to changing conditions. The article presents recommendations for the implementation of modern technological solutions, in particular cloud technologies, artificial intelligence and blockchain, which can contribute to increasing the efficiency of business processes and provide competitive advantages in the market. It is substantiated that adaptation to changing financial conditions and digital transformation requires a comprehensive approach that combines strategic planning, innovative technologies and human capital. Only such an approach will allow enterprises not only to survive in conditions of rapid changes, but also to prosper, ensuring stable development and long-term success in the market. The issue of ethics and social responsibility in the conditions of digital transformation is considered. It is important to ensure that innovative solutions and technologies are used in the interests of the community, respecting the principles of transparency, confidentiality and data security. Only a comprehensive approach to this challenge will allow enterprises to reach new horizons of development and ensure their competitiveness in the future.
Covariates of success in quitting smoking: a systematic review of studies from 2008 to 2021 conducted to inform the statistical analyses of quitting outcomes of a hospital-based tobacco dependence treatment service in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hock Emma S. , Franklin Matthew , Baxter Susan , Clowes Mark , Chilcott James , Gillespie Duncan
Published: October 2023

Background Smoking cessation interventions are being introduced into routine secondary care in the United Kingdom (UK), but there are person and setting-related factors that could moderate their success in quitting smoking. This review was conducted as part of an evaluation of the QUIT hospital-based tobacco dependence treatment service (https://sybics-quit.co.uk). The aim of the review was to identify a comprehensive set of variables associated with quitting success among tobacco smokers contacting secondary healthcare services in the UK who are offered support to quit smoking and subsequently set a quit date. The results would then be used to inform the development of a statistical analysis plan to investigate quitting outcomes. Methods Systematic literature review of five electronic databases. Studies eligible for inclusion investigated quitting success in one of three contexts: (a) the general population in the UK; (b) people with a mental health condition; (c) quit attempts initiated within a secondary care setting. The outcome measures were parameters from statistical analysis showing the effects of covariates on quitting success with a statistically significant (i.e., p-value <0.05) association. Results The review identified 29 relevant studies and 14 covariates of quitting success, which we grouped into four categories: demographics (age; sex; ethnicity; socio-economic conditions; relationship status, cohabitation and social network), individual health status and healthcare setting (physical health, mental health), tobacco smoking variables (current tobacco consumption, smoking history, nicotine dependence; motivation to quit; quitting history), and intervention characteristics (reduction in amount smoked prior to quitting, the nature of behavioural support, tobacco dependence treatment duration, pharmacological aids). Conclusions In total, 14 data fields were identified that should be considered for inclusion in datasets and statistical analysis plans for evaluating the quitting outcomes of smoking cessation interventions initiated in secondary care contexts in the UK. PROSPERO registration CRD42021254551 (13/05/2021)
A sense of freedom: Exploring everyday experiences of cycling in an Irish regional city
Authors:   University College Cork, Hogan Eileen , Jeffers Becci
Published: October 2023

In current policy and planning discourse, there is great interest in reimagining and redesigning cities as more cycling-friendly spaces. Research shows that good cycling infrastructure is the first step to increasing cycling rates. However, social and cultural factors are also important for understanding the attractions of cycling and barriers to cycling but these tend to be under-explored in transport policy and research. In partnership with the Cork Environmental Forum and the Cork Cycling Campaign, this study set out to develop social scientific knowledge about cycling as a social practice, focusing on Cork as a case study of an Irish regional city, with a view to informing pro-cycling policy.
Cerebral venous thrombosis in reproductive age
Authors: Manysheva K. B. , Abusueva B. A. , Abusueva Z. A. , Bagandov B. R. , Magomedova Sh. Z.
Published: October 2023

Relevance. Cerebral venous thrombosis is a relatively rare pathological condition that often leads to the development of ischemic and/or hemorrhagic stroke.

Objective. Describe a clinical case of cerebral venous thrombosis, accompanied by the ischemic stroke with hemorrhagic transformation, in a reproductive age woman taking a combined estrogen-progestin drug from the group of oral contraceptives.

Patients and methods. The analysis based on the anamnesis data, clinical, laboratory and instrumental examination of the patient.

Results. A clinical case of a 23-year-old patient who had an acute ischemic stroke with hemorrhagic transformation is presented. According to the history data and instrumental methods, the stroke was caused by thrombosis of the cerebral sinuses, which developed on the background of hormonal contraception use. The clinical case is accompanied by MRI images of the patient's brain.

Conclusions. The risk of cerebral venous thrombosis in women with hormonal contraceptives use is almost 8 times higher than in those who do not receive hormone therapy. The occurrence of neurological symptoms in women of reproductive age requires a thorough study of the life history, obstetric/gynecological and pharmacological history to establish the fact of estrogen-progestin drugs use for contraception or treatment of hormonal disorders. The described case focuses on the importance of a delicate approach to prescribing hormonal therapy in the treatment of gynecological and other pathological conditions, and indicates the necessity to consider and recommend other contraceptives for young patients.
Case study of use of EpiTapp® app in structural focal epilepsy as component of rehabilitation program
Authors: Narodova E. A. , Shnayder N. A. , Narodova V. V.
Published: October 2023

Introduction. In 2022, new clinical guidelines ‘Epilepsy and status epilepticus in adults and children’ were released, according to which it is recommended for adult patients with epilepsy to include behavioral methods in the form of self-management programs in addition to standard antiepileptic therapy as rehabilitation measures in comprehensive care for patients with epilepsy in order to improve the quality of life, cognitive functions and adherence to treatment. Considering the urgency of this problem and the opportunities offered by new clinical guidelines, there has been interest in a more detailed study of the EpiTapp® technique as an element of a self-management program in addition to standard antiepileptic therapy as a comprehensive care, using the example of a patient with structural focal epilepsy (SFE).

Objective. To present a clinical case of using the EpiTapp® application as part of a self-management program in addition to standard antiepileptic therapy as a comprehensive care for an adult patient with SFE.

Materials and methods. The study used the author's technique of brush tapping (RF patent No. 2606489 dated 10.01.2017). Patient A. used the EpiTapp® application in addition to the antiepileptic therapy she received, as a part of rehabilitation program for self-management of epileptic seizures, on an outpatient basis.

Results. The analysis of the diary of observation of epileptic seizures showed that in 93 % of cases, patient A. managed to stop the incipient motor focal seizure (FS) and prevent its transformation into a bilateral tonic-clonic seizure. Thus, against the background of regular use of the EpiTapp® method, the patient's frequency of FS decreased by 55.8 % by visit 4 compared to visit 2. Patient A. rated the effectiveness and safety of the EpiTapp® application by 95 %.

Conclusions. Thus, the use of the EpiTapp® application allowed a woman with difficult-to-treat SFE to gain control over epileptic seizures without changing the regimen and dose of antiepileptic therapy.
Diagnostic screening for risk of cerebral venous thrombosis in young patients taking oral contraceptives
Authors: Putilina M. V. , Teplova N. V.
Published: October 2023

Cerebral venous thrombosis is rarely diagnosed in young patients, approximately 3–4 cases per a million people in the general population. This is probably due to the fact that the clinical manifestations of CVT are nonspecific and vary from isolated headaches to individual neurological symptoms. On the other hand, the detection of this pathology is difficult due to the lack of awareness of physicians about the diagnostic screening of risk factors. In recent years, risk factors associated with disorders in the blood coagulation system (genetically determined and acquired coagulopathy) and changes in the vascular wall have come to the fore, especially in female patients using oral contraceptives. However, the prescription of this group of drugs does not take into account the risk of developing vascular complications, such as cerebral vein thrombosis, so the concept of primary vigilance in adolescents with menstrual irregularities and women of reproductive age when prescribing hormonal drugs should be based on careful screening for changes in the coagulation system. organism. The concept of primary vigilance in the appointment of hormonal drugs should be based on careful screening for congenital or acquired changes in the coagulation system of the body. Significant genetic mutations for diagnosis are Leiden and F2-prothrombin G20210A, methylenetetrohydrophosphate reductase (MTHFR), plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-I), factor VII, glycoprotein (GP IIIa), deficiency of proteins C, S, and antithrombin. It is advisable to include the determination of vitamins B in screening. In non-pregnant women, folate deficiency can only be detected in erythrocytes, while normal in plasma. If any mutation is found in a patient, it is necessary to examine his next of kin to clarify their genetic profile and timely use of preventive measures against thrombosis, it is recommended to replace oral contraceptives with other methods of contraception. If a history of thrombosis has previously occurred, lifelong treatment with anticoagulants is indicated.
History of creation and development of emergency medical care in City of Moscow
Authors: Plavunov N. F. , Serov I. A. , Rozhenetsky A. N. , Kadyshev V. A.
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to the history of the creation and development of emergency medical care for the population of Moscow. The stages of the activity of the home care centers, the night emergency room at the Ambulance Station and their subsequent organization in the district emergency centers are considered. The main regulatory and legal documentation is indicated, in the development of which the heads of the Station n. a. A. S. Puchkov and A. M. Nechaev took part. The work on the creation of a system of emergency and emergency medical care for adults and children in Moscow, the rules of action of the doctor of the emergency room upon receipt of appeals is shown. The article describes the search for effective ways to solve organizational and material problems in the field of emergency and emergency medical care at different stages of the development of the emergency service. The role of the Moscow Ambulance and Emergency Medical Care Station in the development and implementation of organizational and methodological measures to improve the work of emergency departments in the capital is shown. A description of a major project is given, the purpose of which was the full integration of emergency medical care for adults and children into the structure of the Ambulance and emergency Medical Care Station in Moscow at the present stage, the organization of a Single city dispatch center for emergency and emergency medical care with the formation of a single information space, the previous preparatory work for receiving calls on a single federal number 103 on the base of the Station. During its history, the Moscow emergency medical Service has passed a difficult path. Thanks to the efforts made, the service is now an integral part of the Ambulance n. a. A. S. Puchkov and Emergency Medical Care Station in Moscow.
Experience and prospects of using virtual reality technologies in medicine
Authors: Dyachenko D. A. , Kovalenko A. A. , Vasiliev Yu. L.
Published: October 2023

VR/AR technologies make it possible not only to facilitate the work of operating surgeons, but also to make the training of young specialists more effective, because the drawings in the textbook do not provide a complete understanding of the structure of the human body.The purpose of this review is to qualitatively assess the use of VR technologies in medicine, which can be considered from three sides: in teaching students, in the work of doctors, and for the rehabilitation of patients.Materials and methods. An information search was conducted on the resources of eLibrary, PubMed, CyberLeninka over the past 10 years. The keywords were the terms of augmented and virtual reality, as well as a set of keywords for associated comorbidity.Conclusions. In minimally invasive operations, MR technologies can improve the accuracy of surgical intervention, which will increase the likelihood of success of the operation. MR technologies are a more promising area in medicine than VR and AR technologies. Mixed reality technologies can be used in student education, preoperative planning, and during the surgical operation itself. The relative speed of creating an MR image makes it faster and more accurate to make a diagnosis, develop a patient treatment regimen, as well as more efficient and simple communication between doctors and patients
Düzce İli’nin Kır ve Şehir Nüfusunun Tespiti (1935 - 2022)
Authors: OLĞAÇ İrem , DOĞAN Mesut
Published: October 2023

Araştırmanın konusu, Düzce İli’nin Kır ve Şehir Nüfusunun 1935 – 2022 yılları özelinde tespit ve analiz edilmesidir. Kır ve şehir nüfusunun tespiti, demografik yapının anlaşılması, kalkınma planlamalarının sağlıklı bir şekilde yapılmasında sağlamak ve var olan kaynakların etkin bir şekilde kullanılması ve yönetilmesi açısından önemlidir. Düzce İl sınırlarının esas alındığı bu çalışmanın amacı; Düzce İli’nin kır ve şehir nüfusunu tespit ederek ilin demografik yapısını anlamak ve bu doğrultuda ilin kalkınma planlamalarının sağlıklı bir şekilde yapılmasına olanak oluşturmaktır. Ayrıca var olan kaynakların etkin bir şekilde kullanılması ve yönetilmesine katkı sağlayacak öneriler geliştirmektir. Bu çalışmada, TÜİK tarafından belirlenen idari kriter esas alınarak il ve ilçe merkezinde yaşayanlar şehir köy, nahiye ve bucaklarda yaşayanlar ise kır nüfusu olarak ele alınmıştır. 1935-2000 yılları arasındaki veriler Genel Nüfus Sayımlarıyla Devlet İstatistik Enstitüsü (DİE) ve 2000-2022 yılları arasındaki veriler ise Adrese Dayalı Nüfus Kayıt Sistemi (ADNKS) üzerinden temin edilerek Düzce’nin kır-şehir nüfusunda meydana gelen gelişmeler tespit edilmiştir. TÜİK’ten elde edilen verilerle oluşturulan harita için ArcGIS/ ArcMap 10.4.1 programları içerisinde bulunan Kernel Yoğunluk Analizi yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Ayrıca konuyla ilgili literatür taraması, bilgi arama ve gözlem yöntemleriyle elde edilen veriler Word, Excel ve ArcGIS/ArcMap 10.4.1 programlarından yararlanılarak tablo ve haritalarla desteklenmiştir. Bu doğrultuda Düzce İli’nin kır-şehir nüfusunun tarihsel gelişimi, nüfus artış oranları, nüfus yoğunlukları ve cinsiyete göre dağılımları alt başlıklar içerisinde incelenmiştir. Çalışma sonucunda kır nüfusunun 1935-2022 yılları arasında düzenli bir şekilde azalmasına rağmen, 2008 yılına kadar toplam nüfus içerisindeki oranının şehir nüfusuna oranla daha fazla olduğu gözlemlenmiştir. Ancak bu durum 2008 yılı itibariyle tersi yönde değişmiştir.
Benefits and risks of gene drives for invasive plant management - the case for common tansy
Authors: Croghan Lori , Smith Alan G. , Tancos Matthew A. , Anderson Neil O. , Becker Roger L.
Published: October 2023

Invasive plants cause significant environmental and economic damage, but land managers have few control options. Common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is prevalent in many US states and is one of the most reported invasive plants in Minnesota. Controlling common tansy poses a challenge due to its extensive distribution and association with diverse plant communities. A gene drive is being explored as a genetic biocontrol method for the management of several non-native invasives, including common tansy in North America. Gene drives have emerged as a novel biotechnology application with potential to improve public health, promote conservation, and increase agricultural productivity. In common tansy, gene drives could be developed to target genes that would reduce or eliminate female fertility and consequently inhibit common tansy seed production. Using common tansy as an example, we outline risks associated with the use of gene drive technology for invasive plant control and explain how risks may be mitigated. Understanding potential benefits and risks associated with gene drives in the early stages of development is crucial. Mitigating risks, receiving stakeholder input, and navigating the regulatory environment will play an important role in gene drive development and deployment.
Combined 3D bioprinting and tissue-specific ECM system reveals the influence of brain matrix on stem cell differentiation
Authors: Zamponi Martina , Mollica Peter A. , Khodour Yara , Bjerring Julie S. , Bruno Robert D. , Sachs Patrick C.
Published: October 2023

We have previously shown that human and murine breast extracellular matrix (ECM) can significantly impact cellular behavior, including stem cell fate determination. It has been established that tissue-specific extracellular matrix from the central nervous system has the capacity to support neuronal survival. However, the characterization of its influence on stem cell differentiation and its adaptation to robust 3D culture models is underdeveloped. To address these issues, we combined our 3D bioprinter with hydrogels containing porcine brain extracellular matrix (BMX) to test the influence of the extracellular matrix on stem cell differentiation. Our 3D bioprinting system generated reproducible 3D neural structures derived from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). We demonstrate that the addition of BMX preferentially influences 3D bioprinted mESCs towards neural lineages compared to standard basement membrane (Geltrex/Matrigel) hydrogels alone. Furthermore, we demonstrate that we can transplant these 3D bioprinted neural cellular structures into a mouse’s cleared mammary fat pad, where they continue to grow into larger neural outgrowths. Finally, we demonstrate that direct injection of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCS) and neural stem cells (NSCs) suspended in pure BMX formed neural structures in vivo. Combined, these findings describe a unique system for studying brain ECM/stem cell interactions and demonstrate that BMX can direct pluripotent stem cells to differentiate down a neural cellular lineage without any additional specific differentiation stimuli.
Significant variation of filamentation phenotypes in clinical Candida albicans strains
Authors: Brandquist Nichole D. , Lampman Cierra , Smith Elias J. , Basilio Lizeth , Almansob Akram , Iwen Peter C. , Blankenship Jill R.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Candida albicans is an opportunistic human pathogen that typically resides as part of the microbiome in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of a large portion of the human population. This fungus lacks a true sexual cycle and evolves in a largely clonal pattern. The ability to cause disease is consistent across the species as strains causing systemic infections appear across the known C. albicans intra-species clades.

Methods

In this work, strains collected from patients with systemic C. albicans infections isolated at the Nebraska Medicine clinical laboratory were typed by MLST analysis. Since the ability to form filaments has been linked to pathogenesis in C. albicans, these clinical strains, as well as a previously genotyped set of clinical strains, were tested for their ability to filament across a variety of inducing conditions.

Results

Genotyping of the clinical strains demonstrated that the strains isolated at one of the major medical centers in our region were as diverse as strains collected across the United States. We demonstrated that clinical strains exhibit a variety of filamentation patterns across differing inducing conditions. The only consistent pattern observed in the entire set of clinical strains tested was an almost universal inability to filament in standard solid inducing conditions used throughout the C. albicans field. A different solid filamentation assay that produces more robust filamentation profiles from clinical strains is proposed in this study, although not all strains expected to filament in vivo were filamentous in this assay.

Discussion

Our data supports growing evidence that broad phenotypic diversity exists between the C. albicans type strain and clinical strains, suggesting that the type strain poorly represents filamentation patterns observed in most clinical isolates. These data further highlight the need to use diverse clinical strains in pathogenesis assays.
Co-infection and co-localization of Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus and Epstein-Barr virus in HIV-associated Kaposi sarcoma: a case report
Authors: Julius Peter , Kang Guobin , Siyumbwa Stepfanie , Musumali Jane , Tso For Yue , Ngalamika Owen , Kaile Trevor , Maate Fred , Moonga Phyllis , West John T. , Angeletti Peter , Wood Charles
Published: October 2023

Kaposi sarcoma (KS), a multifocal vascular neoplasm frequently observed in HIV-positive individuals, primarily affects the skin, mucous membranes, visceral organs, and lymph nodes. KS is associated primarily with Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) infection. In this case report, we present a rare occurrence of co-infection and co-localization of KSHV and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in KS arising from the conjunctiva, which, to our knowledge, has not been reported previously. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and EBV-encoded RNA in situ hybridization (EBER-ISH) were utilized to demonstrate the presence of KSHV and EBV infection in the ocular KS lesion. Nearly all KSHV-positive cells displayed co-infection with EBV. In addition, the KS lesion revealed co-localization of KSHV Latency-Associated Nuclear Antigen (LANA) and EBV Epstein Barr virus Nuclear Antigen-1 (EBNA1) by multi-colored immunofluorescence staining with different anti-EBNA1 antibodies, indicating the possibility of interactions between these two gamma herpesviruses within the same lesion. Additional study is needed to determine whether EBV co-infection in KS is a common or an opportunistic event that might contribute to KS development and progression.
Perinatal asphyxia and hypothermic treatment from the endocrine perspective
Authors: Improda Nicola , Capalbo Donatella , Poloniato Antonella , Garbetta Gisella , Dituri Francesco , Penta Laura , Aversa Tommaso , Sessa Linda , Vierucci Francesco , Cozzolino Mariarosaria , Vigone Maria Cristina , Tronconi Giulia Maria , del Pistoia Marta , Lucaccioni Laura , Tuli Gerdi , Munarin Jessica , Tessaris Daniele , de Sanctis Luisa , Salerno Mariacarolina
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Perinatal asphyxia is one of the three most important causes of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Therapeutic hypothermia represents the standard treatment for infants with moderate-severe perinatal asphyxia, resulting in reduction in the mortality and major neurodevelopmental disability. So far, data in the literature focusing on the endocrine aspects of both asphyxia and hypothermia treatment at birth are scanty, and many aspects are still debated. Aim of this narrative review is to summarize the current knowledge regarding the short- and long-term effects of perinatal asphyxia and of hypothermia treatment on the endocrine system, thus providing suggestions for improving the management of asphyxiated children.

Results

Involvement of the endocrine system (especially glucose and electrolyte disturbances, adrenal hemorrhage, non-thyroidal illness syndrome) can occur in a variable percentage of subjects with perinatal asphyxia, potentially affecting mortality as well as neurological outcome. Hypothermia may also affect endocrine homeostasis, leading to a decreased incidence of hypocalcemia and an increased risk of dilutional hyponatremia and hypercalcemia.

Conclusions

Metabolic abnormalities in the context of perinatal asphyxia are important modifiable factors that may be associated with a worse outcome. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the possible occurrence of endocrine complication, in order to establish appropriate screening protocols and allow timely treatment.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in vitamin D binding protein and 25-hydroxylase genes affect vitamin D levels in adolescents of Arab ethnicity in Kuwait
Authors: Rahman Abdur , Abu-Farha Mohamed , Channanath Arshad , Hammad Maha M. , Anoop Emil , Chandy Betty , Melhem Motasem , Al-Mulla Fahd , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Abubaker Jehad
Published: October 2023

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is widespread in the Arab world despite ample sunshine throughout the year. In our previous study, lifestyle and socio-demographic factors could explain only 45% of variability in vitamin D levels in Kuwaiti adolescents, suggesting that genetics might contribute to VDD in this region. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the 25-hydroxylase (CYP2R1) and the GC globulin (GC) genes have been reported to affect vitamin D levels in various ethnic groups in adults. In this study, we investigated the association of two SNPs from GC (rs4588 and rs7041) and three SNPs from CYP2R1 (rs10741657, rs11023374 and rs12794714) with vitamin D levels and VDD in a nationally representative sample of adolescents of Arab ethnicity from Kuwait. Multivariable linear regression, corrected for age, sex, parental education, governorate, body mass index, and exposure to sun, demonstrated that each of the 5 study variants showed significant associations with plasma 25(OH)D levels in one or more of the additive, recessive, and dominant genetic models - the rs10741657 under all the three models, rs12794714 under both the additive and recessive models, rs7041 under the recessive model; and rs4588 and rs11023374 under the dominant model. Minor alleles at rs4588 (T), rs7041 (A), rs11023374 (C), and rs12794714 (A) led to a decrease in plasma 25(OH)D levels - rs4588:[β (95%CI) = -4.522 (-8.66,-0.38); p=0.033]; rs7041:[β (95%CI) = -6.139 (-11.12,-1.15); p=0.016]; rs11023374:[β (95%CI) = -4.296 (-8.18,-0.40); p=0.031]; and rs12794714:[β (95%CI) = -3.498 (-6.27,-0.72); p=0.014]. Minor allele A at rs10741657 was associated with higher levels of plasma 25(OH)D levels [β (95%CI) = 4.844 (1.62,8.06); p=0.003)] and lower odds of vitamin D deficiency (OR 0.40; p=0.002). These results suggest that the CYP2R1 and GC SNP variants are partly responsible for the high prevalence of VDD in Kuwait. Genotyping these variants may be considered for the prognosis of VDD in Kuwait.
Physical exercise as a friend not a foe in acute kidney diseases through immune system modulation
Authors: Costanti-Nascimento Ana Carolina , Brelaz-Abreu Leonilia , Bragança-Jardim Elayne , Pereira Welbert de Oliveira , Camara Niels Olsen Saraiva , Amano Mariane Tami
Published: October 2023

Regular and moderate exercise is being used for therapeutic purposes in treating several diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and even chronic kidney diseases (CKDs). Conversely, extenuating physical exercise has long been pointed out as one of the sources of acute kidney injury (AKI) due to its severe impact on the body’s physiology. AKI development is associated with increased tubular necrosis, which initiates a cascade of inflammatory responses. The latter involves cytokine production, immune cell (macrophages, lymphocytes, and neutrophils, among others) activation, and increased oxidative stress. AKI can induce prolonged fibrosis stimulation, leading to CKD development. The need for therapeutic alternative treatments for AKI is still a relevant issue. In this context arises the question as to whether moderate, not extenuating, exercise could, on some level, prevent AKI. Several studies have shown that moderate exercise can help reduce tissue damage and increase the functional recovery of the kidneys after an acute injury. In particular, the immune system can be modulated by exercise, leading to a better recovery from different pathologies. In this review, we aimed to explore the role of exercise not as a trigger of AKI, but as a modulator of the inflammatory/immune system in the prevention or recovery from AKI in different scenarios. In AKI induced by ischemia and reperfusion, sepsis, diabetes, antibiotics, or chemotherapy, regular and/or moderate exercise could modulate the immune system toward a more regulatory immune response, presenting, in general, an anti-inflammatory profile. Exercise was shown to diminish oxidative stress, inflammatory markers (caspase-3, lactate dehydrogenase, and nitric oxide), inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1b, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), modulate lymphocytes to an immune suppressive phenotype, and decrease tumor necrosis factor-β (TGF-β), a cytokine associated with fibrosis development. Thus, it creates an AKI recovery environment with less tissue damage, hypoxia, apoptosis, or fibrosis. In conclusion, the practice of regular moderate physical exercise has an impact on the immune system, favoring a regulatory and anti-inflammatory profile that prevents the occurrence of AKI and/or assists in the recovery from AKI. Moderate exercise should be considered for patients with AKI as a complementary therapy.
Multi-omics analysis reveals interferon-stimulated gene OAS1 as a prognostic and immunological biomarker in pan-cancer
Authors: Yang Runyu , Du Yue , Zhang Mengyao , Liu Yi , Feng Hui , Liu Ruimin , Yang Bingyu , Xiao Jiayi , He Pengcheng , Niu Fan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

OAS1(2’-5’-oligoadenylate synthetase 1) is a member of the Interferon-Stimulated Genes which plays an important role in the antiviral process. In recent years, the role of OAS1 in tumors has attracted attention, and it was found to be associated with prognosis in several tumors. However, the mechanism by which OAS1 affects tumors is unclear and pan-cancer study of OAS1 is necessary to better understand its implication in cancers.

Methods

The expression, prognostic value, genetic alteration, alternative splicing events of OAS1 in pan-cancers were analyzed using TCGA, GTEx, HPA, GEPIA and OncoSplicing databases. OAS1 associated immune cell infiltration was evaluated using the ESTIMATE, xCell, CIBERSORT and QUANTISEQ algorithm. Single cell transcriptome data download using TISH database. Finally, the roles of the OAS1 on apoptosis, migration and invasion were investigated in two pancreatic cancer cells.

Results

Our results revealed significant differences in OAS1 expression among various tumors, which had prognostic implications. In addition, we investigated the impact of OAS1 on genomic stability, methylation status, and other factors across different types of cancer, and the effects of these factors on prognosis. Notably, our study also demonstrated that OAS1 overexpression can contribute to CTL dysfunction and macrophage M2 polarization. In addition, cell experiments showed that the knockdown of OAS1 could reduce the invasive ability and increased the apoptosis rate of PAAD cells.

Discussion

These results confirmed that OAS1 could be a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for its potential role in CTL dysfunction and macrophage M2 polarization.
Targeting the dendritic cell-T cell axis to develop effective immunotherapies for glioblastoma
Authors: Gardam Bryan , Gargett Tessa , Brown Michael P. , Ebert Lisa M.
Published: October 2023

Glioblastoma is an aggressive primary brain tumor that has seen few advances in treatments for over 20 years. In response to this desperate clinical need, multiple immunotherapy strategies are under development, including CAR-T cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, oncolytic viruses and dendritic cell vaccines, although these approaches are yet to yield significant clinical benefit. Potential reasons for the lack of success so far include the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, the blood-brain barrier, and systemic changes to the immune system driven by both the tumor and its treatment. Furthermore, while T cells are essential effector cells for tumor control, dendritic cells play an equally important role in T cell activation, and emerging evidence suggests the dendritic cell compartment may be deeply compromised in glioblastoma patients. In this review, we describe the immunotherapy approaches currently under development for glioblastoma and the challenges faced, with a particular emphasis on the critical role of the dendritic cell-T cell axis. We suggest a number of strategies that could be used to boost dendritic cell number and function and propose that the use of these in combination with T cell-targeting strategies could lead to successful tumor control.
Immune cells are associated with mortality: the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Seshadri Gokul , Vivek Sithara , Prizment Anna , Crimmins Eileen M. , Klopack Eric T. , Faul Jessica , Guan Weihua , Meier Helen C. S. , Thyagarajan Bharat
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Age-related immunosenescence is characterized by changes in immune cell subsets and is associated with mortality. However, since immunosenescence is associated with other concurrent age-related changes such as inflammation and multi-organ dysfunction, it is unclear whether the association between age-related immunosenescence and mortality is independent of other concurrent age-related changes. To address these limitations, we evaluated the independent association between immune cell subsets and mortality after adjustment for age-related inflammation and biologic age.

Methods

Data for this study was obtained from the 2016 interview of the Health and Retirement Study (N=6802). Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association between 25 immune cell subsets (11 T-cell subsets, 4 B-cell subsets, 3 monocyte subsets, 3 natural killer cell subsets, 3 dendritic cell subsets, and neutrophils) and 4-year mortality adjusting for covariates such as the Klemera-Doubal algorithm biological age, chronological age, gender, race/ethnicity, BMI, smoking status, comorbidity index, CMV seropositivity, and inflammatory latent variable comprising C-reactive protein, and 4 cytokines (interleukin-10, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, interleukin-6, and soluble tumor necrosis factor).

Results

Four hundred and seventy-six participants died during the study period with an overall median follow up time of 2.5 years. After controlling for covariates and adjustment for sample-weights, total T cells [HR: 0.86, p=0.004], NK CD56LO cells [HR: 0.88, p=0.005], and neutrophils [HR: 1.22, p=0.004] were significantly associated with mortality.

Conclusions

These findings support the idea that an aging immune system is associated with short-term mortality independent of age-related inflammation or other age-related measures of physiological dysfunction. If replicated in other external cohorts, these findings could identify novel targets for both monitoring and intervention to reduce the age-related mortality.
Ferroptosis: the emerging player in remodeling triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Li Jie , He Dejiao , Li Sicheng , Xiao Jun , Zhu Zhanyong
Published: October 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous breast tumor type that is highly malignant, invasive, and highly recurrent. Ferroptosis is a unique mode of programmed cell death (PCD) at the morphological, physiological, and molecular levels, mainly characterized by cell death induced by iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides, which plays a substantial role in a variety of diseases, including tumors and inflammatory diseases. TNBC cells have been reported to display a peculiar equilibrium metabolic profile of iron and glutathione, which may increase the sensitivity of TNBC to ferroptosis. TNBC possesses a higher sensitivity to ferroptosis than other breast cancer types. Ferroptosis also occurred between immune cells and tumor cells, suggesting that regulating ferroptosis may remodel TNBC by modulating the immune response. Many ferroptosis-related genes or molecules have characteristic expression patterns and are expected to be diagnostic targets for TNBC. Besides, therapeutic strategies based on ferroptosis, including the isolation and extraction of natural drugs and the use of ferroptosis inducers, are urgent for TNBC personalized treatment. Thus, this review will explore the contribution of ferroptosis in TNBC progression, diagnosis, and treatment, to provide novel perspectives and therapeutic strategies for TNBC management.
Summer distribution of the Mediterranean sperm whale: insights from the acoustic Accobams survey initiative
Authors: Lerebourg Clara , Boisseau Oliver , Ridoux Vincent , Virgili Auriane
Published: October 2023

The Mediterranean sperm whale population, Physeter macrocephalus, is listed as endangered due to population decline caused by human activities. To mitigate the impact of these activities, accurate knowledge of their distribution and abundance is crucial. During their long dives, sperm whales are not available to visual observation, but since they produce sounds when they dive, they are available to acoustic detection. Therefore, we aimed to use towed acoustic data to model their habitat and fill the knowledge gap on Mediterranean sperm whale distribution. Generalised additive models were used to link the number of sperm whales detected acoustically during the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative in 2018 with different environmental variables integrated over different depth classes, encompassing the depth range used by the species for foraging. Sperm whale distribution was influenced by water temperature at the bottom, eddy kinetic energy between 200 and 600 m, as well as gradients of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a concentrations. The abundance of sperm whales was estimated at 2,959 individuals [2,077 - 4,265] in the sampled areas of the Mediterranean Sea. We predicted that sperm whales were mainly distributed in summer along the continental slope of the north-western Mediterranean basin from the Balearic Islands to the Ligurian Sea and off the Algerian coast. They were present throughout the western Mediterranean Sea and in the northern Ionian Sea. In contrast, predicted densities were low in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. The use of acoustic data compensated for the main difficulty in studying sperm whales, the unavailability of animals at the surface during visual observation and the paucity of visual data. We thus encourage more systematic use of passive acoustics to study sperm whale distribution. The model highlighted a higher concentration of sperm whales in the western Mediterranean basin than in the eastern basin in summer, opening up avenues to improve the conservation of this endangered Mediterranean sub-population.
Mangrove forest mapping from object-oriented multi-feature ensemble classification using Sentinel-2 images
Authors: Zhang Han , Xia Qing , Dai Shuo , Zheng Qiong , Zhang Yunfei , Deng Xingsheng
Published: October 2023

Accurate mapping of mangrove forests is crucial for understanding their ecosystem function and developing effective management policies. However, the absence of an operational multi-feature fusion approach and an ensemble classification system restricts the achievement of this goal. This study aims to develop an object-oriented multi-feature ensemble classification scheme (OMEC). First, an enhanced mangrove spectral index (EMSI) is established by analyzing the spectral reflectance differences between mangrove forests and other land cover types. Sentinel-2 images are segmented into objects using the multi-resolution segmentation method. Then, spectral, textural, and geometric features are extracted, and these features (including EMSI) are inputted into the nearest neighbor classifier to implement mangrove classification. The experiment was conducted in three typical mangrove areas in China using Sentinle-2 images. The results demonstrate that EMSI exhibits good spectral separability for mangroves and performs well in the ensemble classification scheme. The overall accuracy of mangrove classification exceeds 90%, with a Kappa coefficient greater than 0.88. The object-oriented multi-feature ensemble classification scheme significantly improves accuracy and exhibits excellent performance. The method enhances the accuracy of mangrove classification, enriches the approach to mangrove remote sensing interpretation, and offers data support and scientific references for the restoration, management, and protection of coastal wetlands.
Unraveling the genomic diversity and ecological potential of the genus Demequina: insights from comparative analysis of different saline niche strains
Authors: Gao Lei , Fang Bao-Zhu , Lu Chun-Yan , Hong Kun-Hui , Huang Xin-Yu , She Ting-Ting , Xiao Min , Li Wen-Jun
Published: October 2023

During an investigation of the culturable microbial diversity of sediments with salinity from tidal flats and saline lake, seven strains of the genus Demequina were harvested. The genomic analysis and physiological characteristics of strains of this genus have unveiled their significant potential in degrading complex carbon source such as lignin, hemicellulose, chitin, and oligosaccharides. In addition, these strains show potential abilities in nitrite ammonification and sulfide oxidation. These findings not only improved our understanding of their metabolic model, but also provided valuable insights into their ecological roles. Four new species of the genus Demequina are described: Demequina litoralis sp. nov., with SYSU T00192T designated as the type species; Demequina zhanjiangensis sp. nov., with SYSU T00b26T as the type species; Demequina lignilytica sp. nov., with SYSU T00068T as the type species; and Demequina muriae sp. nov., with EGI L300058T as the type species. Additionally, strains SYSU T0a273, SYSU T00039-1, and SYSU T00039 are identified as different strains of Demequina lignilytica. Our study thus sheds light on the diversity, biological significance, and ecological contribution of the Demequina genus in different habitats.
Estimation of primary production from the light absorption of phytoplankton and photosynthetically active radiation in the South China Sea
Authors: Zhao Hongwuyi , Cao Wenxi , Deng Lin , Liao Jianzu , Zeng Kai , Zheng Wendi , Zhang Yuanfang , Xu Jie , Zhou Wen
Published: October 2023

A model was constructed to estimate Primary production (PP) and examine the effect of the dominant phytoplankton group on PP, using a dataset collected in 2019 in the South China Sea (SCS) based on phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443nm [aph(443)] and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). There was a significant log-log linear correlation between PP and the product of aph(443) and PAR (aph(443)×PAR), with an adjusted R2 of 0.64. The model was validated using K-fold cross-validation and an in situ dataset collected in 2018 in the SCS basin. The results showed that the model had good generalisability and was suitable across marine environments, including basin, coastal, and offshore areas. The model was more sensitive to changes in PAR than changes in aph(443). Phytoplankton in the diatom-dominant and haptophyte-dominant clusters were in the light-limited stage, and their PP values increased with increasing aph(443)×PAR. However, Prochlorococcus-dominant samples exhibited photoinhibition, and the PP values decreased with increasing aph(443)×PAR, likely due to their bio-optical characteristics. The model’s predictive power was related to the photo-physiological state of dominant phytoplankton, which performs well in light-limited conditions but not in cases of massive photoinhibition. This study provides insight into the development of phytoplankton-specific aph-based PP models.
Research on the presence of cigarette butts and their leaching of chemical pollutants and microparticles: the case of Dalian, China
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Gu Chenting , Jiao Yaqian , Yang Qiying
Published: October 2023

Cigarette butts (CBs) can contain high amounts of toxic substances such as heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and microplastics, all of them can result from the incomplete decomposition of CBs. However, limited research exists on the pollution caused by littered CBs in China and the emissions of toxic substances from different Chinese cigarette brands.Therefore, the main objective of this study was to assess the quantity of CBs littered in Dalian city, China, and to evaluate the emissions of heavy metals, PAHs, and microplastics from different cigarette brands. During the survey, a total of 10,591 CBs items and 35 cigarette brands were collected. ICP-MS analysis confirmed the presence of 17 types of heavy metals in the highest abundance brand of CBs, with concentrations ranging from 0.02 μg/L (U and La) to 395 μg/L (Mn). In the lowest abundance brand of CBs, 15 types of heavy metals were detected, with concentrations ranging from 0.08 μg/L (U) to 297 μg/L (Mn). Additionally, a total of 9 PAHs, including compounds such as naphthalene and acenaphthylene, were detected in both the highest and lowest abundance brands of CBs using HPLC-MS/MS, with concentrations ranging from 0.40 ng/L (Anthracene) to 92.12 ng/L (Naphthalence). Microplastics and particles were also identified by light microscopy and SEM. Based on cigarette consumption data in China, it is estimated that annually 360,000 tons of plastic waste are generated by CBs in the environment. Considering the presence of CBs in urban and beach environments, the release of these toxic substances poses a threat to water resources.