bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Деякі проблеми розгляду справ про банкрутство державних підприємств
Authors: ГРАБОВАН ЛІЛІЯ
Published: July 2021

Основна мета законодавства про банкрутство полягає в утворенні умов для відновлення платоспроможності боржників та якомога повнішого задоволення вимог кредиторів. Досягнення цієї мети безпосередньо залежить від особливостей правового статусу боржника, його фінансового стану й обраного у процедурі банкрутства способу погашення боргів. Унаслідок відсутності протягом тривалого часу ефективного механізму правового регулювання банкрутства державних підприємств, введення численних мораторіїв на проведення процедур банкрутства, кредитори позбавлені можливості захистити свої права й отримати задоволення вимог, а державні підприємства – відновити свою платоспроможність. Вказані обставини також безпосередньо впливають на процесуальну діяльність суду при розгляді справи про банкрутство державних підприємств.
Метою статті є розгляд особливостей банкрутства державних підприємств, процедурних питань, окреслення проблематики, яка виникає при застосуванні норм Кодексу України з процедур банкрутства (КУзПБ) та спеціального законодавства при розгляді справ про банкрутство.
У статті проаналізовано низку законодавчих актів, які поряд із КУзПБ регу люють питання проведення процедур банкрутства відносно різних видів державних підприємств. Виділені проблеми застосування, що спричинені їхньою суперечністю та неузгодженістю. Визначено правові підходи до розгляду справ про банкрутство державних підприємств на прикладах практики господарських судів.
Зроблені висновки про те, що виключення державних підприємств із переліку суб’єктів банкрутства призводить до нарощування обсягу заборгованості внаслідок застосування штрафних санкцій, нарахування яких було б зупинено у межах справ про банкрутство через введення мораторію.
Змістовно законодавство про банкрутство державних підприємств не координується із вимогами ринкового саморегулювання, умовами формування здорового конкурентного середовища та принципами рівності всіх суб’єктів господарювання.
Разом із невідповідністю нормам законодавства про банкрутство за суттю, вказані норми є неузгодженими і за формою (процесом), що ускладнює їхнє застосування та впливає на фінансовий стан підприємств і процесуальну діяльність суду.
Запропоновано зміни до законодавства про банкрутство державних підприємств.
Isolation, characterization and biocontrol efficacy of a T4-like phage virulent to multidrug-resistant Enterobacter hormaechei
Authors: Lin W , Li D , Gao M , Qin W , Xu L , Pan L , Liu W , Fan H , Mi Z , Tong Y
Published: July 2021

Enterobacter hormaecheiis an important emerging pathogen, often exhibiting resistance to multiple clinically important antibiotics. In this study,E. hormaecheiwas found, for the first time, to be lethal to fish. Bacteriophages are considered potential treatments for bacterial infections. The lytic phage vB_EhoM-IME523 (abbreviated ‘IME523’) infecting multidrug-resistantE. hormaecheiwas isolated from hospital sewage. IME523 exhibits T4-like morphology, including a prolate icosahedral head 110 ± 1.89 nm (mean ± SD) long and 82 ± 0.75 nm wide, and a contractile tail of ca. 110 ± 0.91 nm in length. The complete genome length of phage IME523 is 172763 bp, with a G + C content of 39.97%. The whole genome sequence of IME523 has a 93.10% average nucleotide identity (ANI) and a 53.3%in silicoDNA-DNA hybridization (isDDH) value with the closest-relatedEnterobacterphage vB_EclM_CIP9 (‘CIP9’). ANI andisDDH values between IME523 and other phages were lower than 78 and 22%, respectively. IME523 and CIP9 formed a monophyletic branch in a phylogenetic tree based on the terminase large subunit, DNA polymerase protein and whole genome phylogenetic analysis. Results suggest that IME523 is a novel species in the subfamilyTevenvirinaeand forms a novel genus together with CIP9. No IME523 open reading frame was found to be associated with virulence factors or antibiotic resistance genes. IME523 showed promising protection to zebrafish and brocade carp againstE. hormaecheichallenge.
A systems approach to understanding the connection between farm systems resilience and pasture resilience
Authors: Stevens David , Casey Marie , Edwards Paul , Maxwell Thomas
Published: July 2021

Farm systems resilience in New Zealand pasture-based farming is influenced by external drivers such as environmental regulation, and internal drivers such as existence, expressed as profitability. We examine ten published case studies of farm systems change to provide insight into management interventions to these drivers and their impacts on pasture resilience. Nutrient supply was key to increasing pasture longevity, water use efficiency and animal feed supply. Manipulating water use efficiency through irrigation and legume (predominantly lucerne) use increased nitrogen use efficiency and added pasture supply for animal consumption. Monitoring the pasture supply and animal response ensured both animal feed requirements and pasture conditions for future growth were met. Theresilience of pastures was improved when monitoring guided adaptive management application to ensure whole-farm resilience.
Temporary Storage of the Human Nasal Tissue and Cell Sheet for Wound Repair
Authors: Kasai Yoshiyuki , Morino Tsunetaro , Dobashi Izumi , Mori Eri , Yamamoto Kazuhisa , Kojima Hiromi
Published: July 2021

Temporary storage of nasal tissues and nasal cell sheets, which entails transportation between hospitals and cell culture facilities, is an important issue in regenerative medicine. Herein, we investigated the preservation of chilled and frozen nasal tissues and expiry dates of ready-to-use nasal cell sheets. Although the cell number in preserved tissues was lower than that in fresh tissue, nasal cell sheets could be fabricated from tissues that had been refrigerated for 5 days and frozen–thawed over 5 days. Moreover, the nasal mucosal cell sheets were preserved in a non-hazardous buffer. The cell number, viability, and structure were not maintained in saline containing E-cadherin for 2 days; however, these were maintained in Hank’s balanced salt solution for 2 days, but not for 5 days. To assess the proliferation capacity of cells in the stored cell sheets, we performed cell sheet grafting assays in vitro. Cell sheets stored in Hank’s balanced salt solution for 2 days adhered to collagen gel and expanded normally. Our results show that nasal tissues can be stored temporarily in refrigerators or deep freezers, and Hank’s balanced salt solution can be used for preservation of ready-to-use cell sheets for a few days.
Indomethacin Treatment Post-irradiation Improves Mouse Parotid Salivary Gland Function via Modulation of Prostaglandin E2 Signaling
Authors: Gilman Kristy E. , Camden Jean M. , Woods Lucas T. , Weisman Gary A. , Limesand Kirsten H.
Published: July 2021

Annually, >600,000 new cases of head and neck cancer (HNC) are diagnosed worldwide with primary treatment being surgery and radiotherapy. During ionizing radiation (IR) treatment of HNC, healthy salivary glands are collaterally damaged, leading to loss of function that severely diminishes the quality of life for patients due to increased health complications, including oral infections and sores, cavities, and malnutrition, among others. Therapies for salivary hypofunction are ineffective and largely palliative, indicating a need for further research to uncover effective approaches to prevent or restore loss of salivary gland function following radiotherapy. Previous work in our lab implicated prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) as an inflammatory mediator whose release from radiation-exposed cells promotes salivary gland damage and loss of function. Deletion of the P2X7 purinergic receptor for extracellular ATP reduces PGE2 secretion in irradiated primary parotid gland cells, and salivary gland function is enhanced in irradiated P2X7R–/– mice compared to wild-type mice. However, the role of PGE2 signaling in irradiated salivary glands is unclear and understanding the mechanism of PGE2 action is a goal of this study. Results show that treatment of irradiated mice with the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indomethacin, which reduces PGE2 production via inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), improves salivary gland function compared to irradiated vehicle-treated mice. To define the signaling pathway whereby PGE2 induces salivary gland dysfunction, primary parotid gland cells treated with PGE2 have increased c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) activation and cell proliferation and reduced amylase levels and store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). The in vivo effects of blocking PGE2 production were also examined and irradiated mice receiving indomethacin injections have reduced JNK activity at 8 days post-irradiation and reduced proliferation and increased amylase levels at day 30, as compared to irradiated mice without indomethacin. Combined, these data suggest a mechanism whereby irradiation-induced PGE2 signaling to JNK blocks critical steps in saliva secretion manifested by a decrease in the quality (diminished amylase) and quantity (loss of calcium channel activity) of saliva, that can be restored with indomethacin. These findings encourage further attempts evaluating indomethacin as a viable therapeutic option to prevent damage to salivary glands caused by irradiation of HNC in humans.
Positive Effects of Three-Dimensional Collagen-Based Matrices on the Behavior of Osteoprogenitors
Authors: Lin Zhikai , Nica Cristina , Sculean Anton , Asparuhova Maria B.
Published: July 2021

Recent research has demonstrated that reinforced three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrices can provide a stable scaffold for restoring the lost volume of a deficient alveolar bone. In the present study, we aimed to comparatively investigate the migratory, adhesive, proliferative, and differentiation potential of mesenchymal stromal ST2 and pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells in response to four 3D collagen-based matrices. Dried acellular dermal matrix (DADM), hydrated acellular dermal matrix (HADM), non-crosslinked collagen matrix (NCM), and crosslinked collagen matrix (CCM) did all enhance the motility of the osteoprogenitor cells. Compared to DADM and NCM, HADM and CCM triggered stronger migratory response. While cells grown on DADM and NCM demonstrated proliferative rates comparable to control cells grown in the absence of a biomaterial, cells grown on HADM and CCM proliferated significantly faster. The pro-proliferative effects of the two matrices were supported by upregulated expression of genes regulating cell division. Increased expression of genes encoding the adhesive molecules fibronectin, vinculin, CD44 antigen, and the intracellular adhesive molecule-1 was detected in cells grown on each of the scaffolds, suggesting excellent adhesive properties of the investigated biomaterials. In contrast to genes encoding the bone matrix proteins collagen type I (Col1a1) and osteopontin (Spp1) induced by all matrices, the expression of the osteogenic differentiation markers Runx2, Alpl, Dlx5, Ibsp, Bglap2, and Phex was significantly increased in cells grown on HADM and CCM only. Short/clinically relevant pre-coating of the 3D biomaterials with enamel matrix derivative (EMD) or recombinant bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rBMP-2) significantly boosted the osteogenic differentiation of both osteoprogenitor lines on all matrices, including DADM and NCM, indicating that EMD and BMP-2 retained their biological activity after being released from the matrices. Whereas EMD triggered the expression of all osteogenesis-related genes, rBMP-2 upregulated early, intermediate, and late osteogenic differentiation markers except for Col1a1 and Spp1. Altogether, our results support favorable influence of HADM and CCM on the recruitment, growth, and osteogenic differentiation of the osteoprogenitor cell types. Furthermore, our data strongly support the biofunctionalization of the collagen-based matrices with EMD or rBMP-2 as a potential treatment modality for bone defects in the clinical practice.
Tumor Associated Macrophages, as the Dominant Immune Cells, Are an Indispensable Target for Immunologically Cold Tumor—Glioma Therapy?
Authors: Tong Ni , He Zhenqiang , Ma Yujie , Wang Zheng , Huang Ziming , Cao Haihong , Xu Lanyang , Zou Yuheng , Wang Wanyu , Yi Chenpeng , Yin Zhixin , Wang Qirui
Published: July 2021

Tumor microenvironment (TME) is the cornerstone of the occurrence, development, invasion and diffusion of the malignant central nerve system (CNS) tumor, glioma. As the largest number of inflammatory cells in glioma TME, tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and their secreted factors are indispensable to the progression of glioma, which is a well-known immunologically “cold” tumor, including the growth of tumor cells, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, cancer immunosuppression and metabolism. TAMs intimately interface with the treatment failure and poor prognosis of glioma patients, and their density increases with increasing glioma grade. Recently, great progress has been made in TAM-targeting for anti-tumor therapy. According to TAMs’ function in tumorigenesis and progression, the major anti-tumor treatment strategies targeting TAMs are to hinder macrophage recruitment in TME, reduce TAMs viability or remodel TAMs phenotype from M2 to M1. Different approaches offer unique and effective anti-tumor effect by regulating the phagocytosis, polarization and pro-tumor behaviors of macrophages in the therapy of glioma. The present review summarizes the significant characteristics and related mechanisms of TAMs and addresses the related research progress on targeting TAMs in glioma.
Highly Water-Dispersible Graphene Nanosheets From Electrochemical Exfoliation of Graphite
Authors: Park Si-Woo , Jang Byungkwon , Kim Han , Lee Jimin , Park Ji Young , Kang Sung-Oong , Choa Yong-Ho
Published: July 2021

The electrochemical exfoliation of graphite has been considered to be an effective approach for the mass production of high-quality graphene due to its easy, simple, and eco-friendly synthetic features. However, water dispersion of graphene produced in the electrochemical exfoliation method has also been a challenging issue because of the hydrophobic properties of the resulting graphene. In this study, we report the electrochemical exfoliation method of producing water-dispersible graphene that importantly contains the relatively low oxygen content of <10% without any assistant dispersing agents. Through the mild in situ sulfate functionalization of graphite under alkaline electrochemical conditions using a pH buffer, the highly water-dispersible graphene could be produced without any additional separation processes of sedimentation and/or centrifugation. We found the resulting graphene sheets to have high crystalline basal planes, lateral sizes of several μm, and a thickness of <5 nm. Furthermore, the high aqueous dispersion stability of as-prepared graphene could be demonstrated using a multi-light scattering technique, showing very little change in the optical transmittance and the terbiscan stability index over time.
Comprehensive Description of Pathogens and Antibiotic Treatment Guidance in Children With Community-Acquired Pneumonia Using Combined Mass Spectrometry Methods
Authors: Sun Liying , Zhang Chi , An Shuhua , Chen Xiangpeng , Li Yamei , Xiu Leshan , Xu Baoping , Xie Zhengde , Peng Junping
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the value of molecular methods in the management of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children. Previously developed mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods combined with quantitative real-time PCR (combined-MS methods) were used to describe the aetiology and evaluate antibiotic therapy in the enrolled children. Sputum collected from 302 children hospitalized with CAP were analyzed using the combined-MS methods, which can detect 19 viruses and 12 bacteria related to CAP. Based on the results, appropriate antibiotics were determined using national guidelines and compared with the initial empirical therapies. Respiratory pathogens were identified in 84.4% of the patients (255/302). Co-infection was the predominant infection pattern (51.7%, 156/302) and was primarily a bacterial-viral mixed infection (36.8%, 111/302). Compared with that using culture-based methods, the identification rate for bacteria using the combined-MS methods (61.8%, 126/204) increased by 28.5% (p <0.001). Based on the results of the combined-MS methods, the initial antibiotic treatment of 235 patients was not optimal, which mostly required switching to β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations or reducing unnecessary macrolide treatments. Moreover, using the combined-MS methods to guide antibiotic therapy showed potential to decrease the length of stay in children with severe CAP. For children with CAP, quantitative molecular testing on sputum can serve as an important complement to traditional culture methods. Early aetiology elucidated using molecular testing can help guide the antibiotic therapy.
Suspending Syntax: Bodily Strain and Progressivity in Talk
Authors: Hofstetter Emily , Keevallik Leelo , Löfgren Agnes
Published: July 2021

People speak not only under relaxed conditions but also during strenuous activities, and grammatical resources can be used to achieve displays of strain. This study looks at the relationship between progressivity of talk and bodily strain, focusing on the practice of temporarily suspending syntax while the speaker is accomplishing a physically challenging task. Based on examples from two different physical activities, rock climbing and opera rehearsals, the paper argues that the practice of suspending syntax is a resource available across contexts to render prominence to the strained body and highlight ongoing movement or other bodily action. By placing the strain-based display of incapacity to talk at a moment when the emerging syntactic structure is incomplete, participants maintain rights to resume talk while also presenting themselves as possessing the physical capacity to do so. Suspending syntax is shown to be a minutely timed speakers’ technique that takes advantage of the emergent nature of syntax and that demonstrates how speakers organize language in relation to the sensing and moving body.
Examining Drivers of Divergence in Recorded and Perceived Human-Carnivore Conflict Hotspots by Integrating Participatory and Ecological Data
Authors: Wilkinson Christine E. , Brashares Justin S. , Bett Alice C. , Kelly Maggi
Published: July 2021

Human-carnivore conflict is a global challenge with complex and context-specific causes and consequences. While spatial analyses can use ecological principles to predict patterns of conflict, solutions to mitigate conflict must also be locally adaptable, sustainable, and culturally-sensitive. In Nakuru County, Kenya, rapid development and land subdivision have exacerbated conflict by isolating wildlife in protected areas that are increasingly adjacent to human settlements. In an effort to understand local perspectives on carnivore conflict, and to apply this information toward locally-based conservations actions, we conducted gender-stratified interviews and participatory mapping sessions with 378 people in 16 villages near two ecologically isolated protected areas in Kenya: Lake Nakuru National Park and Soysambu Conservancy. Specifically, we developed a method for associating interview responses and demographic information with spatial participatory data to examine how local perceptions of conflict compared to spatially-explicit records of livestock depredation in the region from 2010 to 2018. We mapped kernel densities of recorded and perceived risk of human-carnivore conflict and then tested for potential social and ecological predictors of divergences found between the two datasets. Mismatched hotspots of observed and perceived risk of conflict were correlated with several ecological and socioeconomic factors. Regions with higher NDVI exhibited more perceived conflict, while the opposite held true for verified conflict. Road density was positively correlated with both types of conflict, and both types of conflict increased closer to protected areas. Livestock ownership, visitation to Lake Nakuru National Park, if the participant's child walked to school, and male gender identity were associated with more perceived conflict reports. Education level and national park visitation were associated with more positive attitudes toward carnivores. Our results show that while observed and perceived conflict may ultimately be equally important for understanding and managing human-carnivore conflict, they may be driven by markedly different social and ecological processes. We suggest that integrating the spatially explicit experiences and perspectives of local communities with more traditional ecological methods is critical to identifying lasting and socially just forms of conflict mitigation.
Cardiac Shock Wave Therapy Ameliorates Myocardial Ischemia in Patients With Chronic Refractory Angina Pectoris: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Weijing Liu , Ximin Fan , Jianying Shen , Mengyun Zhu , Xuehua Fan , Yawei Xu , Liqiong Hong
Published: July 2021

Background: Cardiac shock wave therapy (CSWT) is a non-invasive new option for the treatment of chronic refractory angina pectoris (CRAP). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficiency of CSWT in the treatment of CRAP.

Methods: Eighty-seven patients with CRAP were randomly allocated into CWST group (n = 46) and Control group (n = 41). Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) grade of angina pectoris, Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) score, 6-min walk test (6MWT), weekly dosage of nitroglycerin, and myocardial perfusion on D-SPECT were determined at baseline and during the follow-up period. Adverse events were also evaluated.

Results: CSWT was well-tolerated in the CSWT patients. CSWT significantly improved the CCS grade, SAQ score, and 6MWT (p < 0.05). Imaging examinations showed that the ischemic area was reduced after CSWT. However, no significant changes were observed in the Control group.

Conclusions: CSWT may improve the myocardial perfusion and reduce clinical symptoms without increasing adverse effects in CRAP patients. It provides a non-invasive and safe clinical therapy for CRAP patients.

Clinical Trial registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03398096.
Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells for 90% Post Combustion CO2 Capture From a New Build CCGT
Authors: Ferguson Suzanne , Tarrant Anthony
Published: July 2021

This paper presents the findings of the techno-economic assessment undertaken by Wood for the UK Government Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy on the large-scale deployment of Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFCs) for post-combustion CO2 capture integrated with a new build combined cycle gas turbine power plant for the generation of low carbon electricity. The findings are compared with a state of the art proprietary amine scrubbing technology. Based on a new build power plant to be installed in the North East of England, with a power train comprising two trains of H-class gas turbines each with a dedicated steam turbine, the configuration presented utilises MCFCs between the gas turbine exhausts and their heat recovery steam generators and cryogenic separation for unconverted fuel recycle and CO2 purification. It was found that the proposed configuration could achieve 92% CO2 capture from the overall power plant with MCFCs while achieving 42% of additional new power production with only 2.6 %-points of thermal efficiency penalty compared to a conventional proprietary amine benchmark. While the total project capital cost increased by 65%, the high overall thermal efficiency and additional power generated resulted in a Levelised Cost of Electricity almost identical to the benchmark at £70/MWh (US$97/MWh). A number of areas are identified for potential further improvement in this scheme. It is concluded that use of MCFC technology, which also has the capability to be tailored for hydrogen production and combined heat and power services, shows significant potential to be competitive with, or exceed, the cost and technical performance of current state of the art technologies for post-combustion CO2 capture.
A Place for Space: The Shift to Online Space Education During a Global Pandemic
Authors: Roche Joseph , Bell Laura , Hurley Mairéad , D’Arcy Grace , Owens Brendan , Jensen Aaron M. , Jensen Eric A. , Gonzalez Jorge R. , Russo Pedro
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 global pandemic has transformed the relationship between science and society. The ensuing public health crisis has placed aspects of this relationship in harsh relief; perceptions of scientific credibility, risk, uncertainty, and democracy are all publicly debated in ways unforeseen before the pandemic. This unprecedented situation presents opportunities to reassess how certain disciplines contribute to the public understanding of science. Space education has long provided a lens through which people can consider the intersection of the natural world with society. Space science is critical to understanding how human activity and pollution affect global warming, which in turn, inextricably links it to perceptions of the natural world, environmental change, science communication, and public engagement. The pandemic has caused a dramatic shift in how space education projects connect with public audiences, with participation pivoting to online engagement. This transition, coupled with the renewed societal examination of trust in science, means that it is an ideal time for the field of space education to reflect on its development. Whether it evolves into its own distinct field, or remains an area that straddles disciplinary boundaries, such as science education, communication, and public engagement, are crucial considerations when scientific trust, accountability, and responsibility are in question. This paper describes the current state of space education, recent advances in the field, and relevant COVID-19 challenges. The experience of an international space education project in adapting to online engagement is recounted, and provides a perspective on potential future directions for the field.
COVID-19 and Forests in Canada and the United States: Initial Assessment and Beyond
Authors: Stanturf John A. , Mansuy Nicolas
Published: July 2021

Information on the initial effects of a novel coronavirus, COVID-19, during 2020 on forests in Canada and the United States was derived from existing published studies and reports, news items, and policy briefs, amplified by information from interviews with key informants. Actions taken by governments and individuals to control the spread of the virus and mitigate economic impacts caused short-term disruptions in forest products supply chains and accelerated recent trends in consumer behavior. The COVID-19 containment measures delayed or postponed forest management and research; a surge in visitation of forests near urban areas increased vandalism, garbage accumulation, and the danger of fire ignitions. Forests and parks in remote rural areas experienced lower use, particularly those favored by international visitors, negatively affecting nearby communities dependent upon tourism. Physical distancing and isolation increased on-line shopping, remote working and learning; rather than emerging as novel drivers of change, these actions largely accelerated existing trends. On-line shopping sales had a positive effect on the packaging sector and remote working had a negative effect on graphic paper manufacturing. More time at home and low interest rates increased home construction and remodeling, causing historically high lumber prices and localized material shortages. The response to the pandemic has shown that rapid social change is possible; COVID-19 presents a once in-a-lifetime opportunity to shift the global development paradigm toward greater sustainability and a greener, more inclusive economy, in which forests can play a key role. In both Canada and the United States, the notion of directing stimulus and recovery spending beyond meeting immediate needs toward targeting infrastructure development has momentum.
Multi-Level Analyses of Genome-Wide Association Study to Reveal Significant Risk Genes and Pathways in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Li Ting , Li He , Li Yue , Dong Shu-An , Yi Ming , Zhang Qiu-Xia , Feng Bin , Yang Li , Shi Fu-Dong , Yang Chun-Sheng
Published: July 2021

Background

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system and it is understandable that environmental and genetic factors underlie the etiology of NMOSD. However, the susceptibility genes and associated pathways of NMOSD patients who are AQP4-Ab positive and negative have not been elucidated.

Methods

Secondary analysis from a NMOSD Genome-wide association study (GWAS) dataset originally published in 2018 (215 NMOSD cases and 1244 controls) was conducted to identify potential susceptibility genes and associated pathways in AQP4-positive and negative NMOSD patients, respectively (132 AQP4-positive and 83 AQP4-negative).

Results

In AQP4-positive NMOSD cases, five shared risk genes were obtained at chromosome 6 in AQP4-positive NMOSD cases by using more stringent p-Values in both methods (p < 0.05/16,532), comprising CFB, EHMT2, HLA-DQA1, MSH5, and SLC44A4. Fifty potential susceptibility gene sets were determined and 12 significant KEGG pathways were identified. Sixty-seven biological process pathways, 32 cellular-component pathways, and 29 molecular-function pathways with a p-Value of <0.05 were obtained from the GO annotations of the 128 pathways identified. In the AQP4 negative NMOSD group, no significant genes were obtained by using more stringent p-Values in both methods (p < 0.05/16,485). The 22 potential susceptibility gene sets were determined. There were no shared potential susceptibility genes between the AQP4-positive and negative groups, furthermore, four significant KEGG pathways were also identified. Of the GO annotations of the 165 pathways identified, 99 biological process pathways, 37 cellular-component pathways, and 29 molecular-function pathways with a p-Value of <0.05 were obtained.

Conclusion

The potential molecular mechanism underlying NMOSD may be related to proteins encoded by these novel genes in complements, antigen presentation, and immune regulation. The new results may represent an improved comprehension of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying NMOSD.
A Potential Immune-Related Long Non-coding RNA Prognostic Signature for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Pan Xue , Bi Fangfang
Published: July 2021

Ovarian cancer (OC), the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women, largely because of late diagnosis. Recent studies suggest that the expression levels of immune-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the prognosis of OC; however, the potential of immune-related lncRNAs as prognostic factors in OC remains unexplored. In this study, we aimed to identify a potential immune-related lncRNA prognostic signature for OC patients. We used RNA sequencing and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus database to identify immune-related lncRNAs that could serve as useful biomarkers for OC diagnosis and prognosis. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to identify the immune-related lncRNAs with prognostic value. Functional annotation of the data was performed through the GenCLiP310 website. Seven differentially expressed lncRNAs (AC007406.4, AC008750.1, AL022341.2, AL133351.1, FAM74A7, LINC02229, and HOXB-AS2) were found to be independent prognostic factors for OC patients. The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated that patients in the high-risk group had a poorer survival outcome than those in the low-risk group. The receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that the predictive potential of the immune-related lncRNA signature for OC was robust. The prognostic signature of the seven lncRNAs was successfully validated in the GSE9891, GSE26193 datasets and our clinical specimens. Multivariate analyses suggested that the signature of the seven lncRNAs was an independent prognostic factor for OC patients. Finally, we constructed a nomogram model and a competing endogenous RNA network related to the lncRNA prognostic signature. In conclusion, our study reveals novel immune-related lncRNAs that may serve as independent prognostic factors in OC.
The Hitchhiker Guide to CD4+ T-Cell Depletion in Lentiviral Infection. A Critical Review of the Dynamics of the CD4+ T Cells in SIV and HIV Infection
Authors: Le Hingrat Quentin , Sereti Irini , Landay Alan L. , Pandrea Ivona , Apetrei Cristian
Published: July 2021

CD4+T-cell depletion is pathognomonic for AIDS in both HIV and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infections. It occurs early, is massive at mucosal sites, and is not entirely reverted by antiretroviral therapy (ART), particularly if initiated when T-cell functions are compromised. HIV/SIV infect and kill activated CCR5-expressing memory and effector CD4+T-cells from the intestinal lamina propria. Acute CD4+T-cell depletion is substantial in progressive, nonprogressive and controlled infections. Clinical outcome is predicted by the mucosal CD4+T-cell recovery during chronic infection, with no recovery occurring in rapid progressors, and partial, transient recovery, the degree of which depends on the virus control, in normal and long-term progressors. The nonprogressive infection of African nonhuman primate SIV hosts is characterized by partial mucosal CD4+T-cell restoration, despite high viral replication. Complete, albeit very slow, recovery of mucosal CD4+ T-cells occurs in controllers. Early ART does not prevent acute mucosal CD4+T-cell depletion, yet it greatly improves their restoration, sometimes to preinfection levels. Comparative studies of the different models of SIV infection support a critical role of immune activation/inflammation (IA/INFL), in addition to viral replication, in CD4+T-cell depletion, with immune restoration occurring only when these parameters are kept at bay. CD4+T-cell depletion is persistent, and the recovery is very slow, even when both the virus and IA/INFL are completely controlled. Nevertheless, partial mucosal CD4+T-cell recovery is sufficient for a healthy life in natural hosts. Cell death and loss of CD4+T-cell subsets critical for gut health contribute to mucosal inflammation and enteropathy, which weaken the mucosal barrier, leading to microbial translocation, a major driver of IA/INFL. In turn, IA/INFL trigger CD4+T-cells to become either viral targets or apoptotic, fueling their loss. CD4+T-cell depletion also drives opportunistic infections, cancers, and comorbidities. It is thus critical to preserve CD4+T cells (through early ART) during HIV/SIV infection. Even in early-treated subjects, residual IA/INFL can persist, preventing/delaying CD4+T-cell restoration. New therapeutic strategies limiting mucosal pathology, microbial translocation and IA/INFL, to improve CD4+T-cell recovery and the overall HIV prognosis are needed, and SIV models are extensively used to this goal.
The Role of Macrophages During Zebrafish Injury and Tissue Regeneration Under Infectious and Non-Infectious Conditions
Authors: Bohaud Candice , Johansen Matt D. , Jorgensen Christian , Ipseiz Natacha , Kremer Laurent , Djouad Farida
Published: July 2021

The future of regenerative medicine relies on our understanding of the mechanistic processes that underlie tissue regeneration, highlighting the need for suitable animal models. For many years, zebrafish has been exploited as an adequate model in the field due to their very high regenerative capabilities. In this organism, regeneration of several tissues, including the caudal fin, is dependent on a robust epimorphic regenerative process, typified by the formation of a blastema, consisting of highly proliferative cells that can regenerate and completely grow the lost limb within a few days. Recent studies have also emphasized the crucial role of distinct macrophage subpopulations in tissue regeneration, contributing to the early phases of inflammation and promoting tissue repair and regeneration in late stages once inflammation is resolved. However, while most studies were conducted under non-infectious conditions, this situation does not necessarily reflect all the complexities of the interactions associated with injury often involving entry of pathogenic microorganisms. There is emerging evidence that the presence of infectious pathogens can largely influence and modulate the host immune response and the regenerative processes, which is sometimes more representative of the true complexities underlying regenerative mechanics. Herein, we present the current knowledge regarding the paths involved in the repair of non-infected and infected wounds using the zebrafish model.
Magnitude of Intestinal Parasitosis, Malnutrition, and Predictors of Anemia Among Nonpregnant Reproductive-Age Women Attending Healthcare Services in Olenchity General Hospital, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Yada Tesema Abera , Dessie Yadeta , Darghawth Rasha , Wilfong Tara , Kure Mohammed Abdurke , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: July 2021

Background

Anemia and malnutrition remain a public health challenge in developing worlds. Anemia during a nonpregnant state is one of the neglected medical conditions affecting reproductive-age women around the world. Globally, it is estimated that one-third of all reproductive-age women are anemic. Although it has negative consequences and extensive burden, anemia in nonreproductive-age women is rarely studied in Africa. In Ethiopia, studies investigating anemia and malnutrition among nonpregnant reproductive-age women are limited. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess intestinal parasitic infection, malnutrition, and predictors of anemia among nonpregnant reproductive-age women in Olenchity General Hospital, central Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 405 nonpregnant reproductive-age women in Olenchity General Hospital, central Ethiopia from February 14 to March 24, 2018. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and tested to determine hemoglobin levels by using a hematology analyzer machine. Collected data were entered into EpiData version 3.02 and exported to SPSS version 20 (IBM SPSS Statistics, 2012) for further analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors independently associated with anemia after controlling for possible confounders. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05.

Result

Overall, the magnitude of anemia was found to be 47.4% [95% CI (42.7, 52.6)], of which 34.8% were mild, 11.4% were moderate, and 1.2% were severely anemic. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection, wasting, and overweight was 34.6%, 26.2%, and 8.1%, respectively. Having no formal education [AOR=2.25, CI (1.02, 4.97)], using three to five sanitary pads per day during menses [AOR=1.66 CI (1.02, 2.68)], history of chewing khat [AOR= 4.45, CI (1.18, 16.83)], being from households with mild food insecurity [AOR=3.41, CI (1.10, 10.58)], and intestinal parasitic infection [AOR=2.28, CI (1.39, 3.47)] were factors independently associated with anemia.

Conclusion

The magnitude of anemia, malnutrition, and intestinal parasitic infection among nonpregnant reproductive-age women was found to be a considerable public health problem. Therefore, attention should be given to nonpregnant reproductive-age women visiting different healthcare services to reduce risks of anemia and malnutrition for possible future pregnancies and to ensure women’s health. Deworming of nonpregnant reproductive-age women is also very crucial to reduce the risks of anemia.
A Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Praziquantel-Susceptible and Praziquantel-Resistant Schistosoma mansoni Reveals Distinct Response Between Male and Female Animals
Authors: Pinto-Almeida António , Mendes Tiago M. F. , Ferreira Pedro , Abecasis Ana B. , Belo Silvana , Anibal Fernanda F. , Allegretti Silmara M. , Galinaro Carlos A. , Carrilho Emanuel , Afonso Ana
Published: July 2021

Schistosomiasis is a chronic neglected tropical disease saddling millions of people in the world, mainly children living in poor rural areas. Praziquantel (PZQ) is currently the only drug used for the treatment and control of this disease. However, the extensive use of this drug has brought concern about the emergence of PZQ-resistance/tolerance bySchistosoma mansoni. Studies ofSchistosomaspp. genome, transcriptome, and proteome are crucial to better understand this situation. In thisin vitrostudy, we compare the proteomes of aS. mansonivariant strain stably resistant to PZQ and isogenic to its fully susceptible parental counterpart, identifying proteins from male and female adult parasites of PZQ-resistant and PZQ-susceptible strains, exposed and not exposed to PZQ. A total of 60Schistosomaspp. proteins were identified, some of which present or absent in either strain, which may putatively be involved in the PZQ-resistance phenomenon. These proteins were present in adult parasites not exposed to PZQ, but some of them disappeared when these adult parasites were exposed to the drug. Understanding the development of PZQ-resistance inS. mansoniis crucial to prolong the efficacy of the current drug and develop markers for monitoring the potential emergence of drug resistance.
A Minireview on Biodiscovery in Antarctic Marine Benthic Invertebrates
Authors: Avila Conxita , Angulo-Preckler Carlos
Published: July 2021

Antarctic marine benthic invertebrates are an underexplored source of natural products for biodiscovery. Bioactive marine natural products from Antarctica are reviewed here for their potential use as drugs, considering the main examples in Porifera (15 species), Cnidaria (eight species), Mollusca (one species), Bryozoa (one species), Nemertea (one species), Echinodermata (six species), and Tunicata (five species). A wide variety of bioactivities are reported here, from antitumoral to antimicrobial activities, as well as against neurodegenerative diseases and others. If we aim to use their chemodiversity for human benefits we must maintain the biodiversity, solving the supply problem, speeding up the process, and decreasing research costs to fully exploit the benefits of biodiscovery in Antarctic Marine Natural Products in a near future in a sustainable way.
Processes Influencing Autocompaction Modulate Coastal Wetland Surface Elevation Adjustment With Sea-Level Rise
Authors: Rogers Kerrylee , Saintilan Neil
Published: July 2021

The fate of coastal wetlands and their ecosystem services is dependent upon maintaining substrate elevations within a tidal frame that is influenced by sea-level rise. Development and application of morphodynamic models has been limited as few empirical studies have measured the contribution of key processes to surface elevation change, including mineral and organic matter addition, autocompaction of accumulating sediments and deep subsidence. Accordingly, many models presume that substrates are in equilibrium with relative sea-level rise (RSLR) and the composition of substrates are relatively homogenous. A 20-year record of surface elevation change and vertical accretion from a large tidal embayment in Australia coupled with analyses of inundation frequency and the character of sediments that have accumulated above mean sea level was analyzed to investigate processes influencing surface elevation adjustment. This study confirms the varying contribution of addition, decomposition and compression of organic material, and mineral sediment consolidation. Autocompaction of substrates was proportional to the overburden of accumulating sediments. These processes operate concurrently and are influenced by sediment supply and deposition. Vertical accretion was linearly related to accommodation space. Surface elevation change was related to vertical accretion and substrate organic matter, indicated by carbon storage above mean sea level. Surface elevation change also conformed to models that initially increase and then decrease as accommodation space diminishes. Rates of surface elevation change were largely found to be in equilibrium with sea-level rise measured at the nearest tide gauge, which was estimated at 3.5 mm y–1 over the period of measurements. As creation of new accommodation space with sea-level rise is contrary to the longer-term history of relative sea-level stability in Australia since the mid-Holocene, striking stratigraphic variation arises with deeper sediments dominated by mineral sands and surficial sediments increasingly fine grained and having higher carbon storage. As the sediment character of substrates was found to influence rates of surface elevation gain, we caution against the unqualified use of models derived from the northern hemisphere where substrates have continuously adjusted to sea-level rise and sediment character is likely to be more homogenous.
Prolonged Active Prone Positioning in Spontaneously Breathing Non-intubated Patients With COVID-19-Associated Hypoxemic Acute Respiratory Failure With PaO2/FiO2 >150
Authors: Pierucci Paola , Ambrosino Nicolino , Di Lecce Valentina , Dimitri Michela , Battaglia Stefano , Boniello Esterina , Portacci Andrea , Resta Onofrio , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana
Published: July 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to new approaches to manage patients outside the ICU, including prone positioning in non-intubated patients.

Objectives: To report the use of prolonged active prone positioning in spontaneously breathing patients with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory failure. Spontaneously breathing vs non-invasive respiratory support for COVID19 associated acute respiratory failure.

Methods: Patients with PaO2/FiO2 > 150, with lung posterior consolidations as assessed by means of lung ultrasound, and chest x-ray were studied. Under continuous pulse oximetry (SpO2) monitoring, patients maintained active prone position. A PaO2/FiO2 < 150 was considered as treatment failure and patients had to be switched to non-invasive respiratory support. Retrospectively, data of 16 patients undergoing who refused proning and underwent non-invasive respiratory support were used as controls. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients maintaining prolonged prone position and discharged home. Secondary outcomes included improvement in oxygenation, hospital length of stay, and 6-month survival.

Results: Three out of 16 (18.7%) patients did not tolerate the procedure. Three more patients showed a worsening in PaO2/FiO2 to <150 and required non-invasive support, two of whom finally needing endotracheal intubation. After 72 h, 10 out of 16 (62.5%) patients improved oxygenation [PaO2/FiO2: from 194.6 (42.1) to 304.7 (79.3.2) (p < 0.001)] and were discharged home. In the control group, three out of 16 failed, required invasive ventilatory support, and died within 1 month in ICU. Thirteen were successful and discharged home.

Conclusion: In non-intubated spontaneously breathing COVID-19 patients with PaO2/FiO2 >150, active prolonged prone positioning was feasible and tolerated with significant improvement in oxygenation.