bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MSC-NTF (NurOwn®) exosomes: a novel therapeutic modality in the mouse LPS-induced ARDS model
Authors: Kaspi Haggai , Semo Jonathan , Abramov Nathalie , Dekel Chen , Lindborg Stacy , Kern Ralph , Lebovits Chaim , Aricha Revital
Published: January 2021

Background

One of the most severe complications of the current COVID-19 pandemic is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is caused by increased amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to lung damage and loss of lung function. There are currently no effective therapies for combatting ARDS. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been suggested as a potential treatment for ARDS due to their significant immunomodulatory properties. MSC small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), including exosomes, modulate the immune response as effectively as MSCs themselves, with the added advantages of increased safety and tissue penetration.

Methods

We isolated sEVs from MSCs induced to secrete increased levels of neurotrophic and immunomodulatory factors, termed Exo MSC-NTF, and compared their ability to treat ARDS, in a lung injury LPS mouse model, to sEVs isolated from naïve MSCs (Exo MSC). Measurments of lung histopathological changes and neutrophil infiltration, blood oxygen saturation, and bronchoalveolar lavge fluid (BALF) proinflammatory cytokines and coagulation related factors were performed.

Results

We found that Exo MSC-NTF was superior to Exo MSC in reducing LPS-induced ARDS markers, including physiological lung damage such as alveolar wall thickness, fibrin presence, and neutrophil accumulation, as well as increasing oxygenation levels. Furthermore, Exo MSC-NTF reversed the imbalance in the host immune response, seen as decreased IFN-γ, IL-6, TNF-α, and RANTES levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

Conclusions

These positive preclinical results suggest that Exo MSC-NTF may be suitable as a therapy for COVID-19-induced ARDS and are more effective at combatting ARDS physiological, pathological, and biochemical symptoms than sEVs isolated from non-induced MSCs.
Nanobody: a promising toolkit for molecular imaging and disease therapy
Authors: Bao Guangfa , Tang Ming , Zhao Jun , Zhu Xiaohua
Published: January 2021

Nanobodies are the recombinant variable domains of heavy-chain-only antibodies, with many unique properties such as small size, excellent solubility, superior stability, quick clearance from blood, and deep tissue penetration. As a result, nanobodies have become a promising tool for the diagnosis and therapy of diseases. As imaging tracers, nanobodies allow an early acquisition of high-quality images, provide a comprehensive evaluation of the disease, and subsequently enable a personalized precision therapy. As therapeutic agents, nanobodies enable a targeted therapy by lesion-specific delivery of drugs and effector domains, thereby improving the specificity and efficacy of the therapy. Up to date, a wide variety of nanobodies have been developed for a broad range of molecular targets and have played a significant role in patients with a broad spectrum of diseases. In this review, we aim to outline the current state-of-the-art research on the nanobodies for medical applications and then discuss the challenges and strategies for their further clinical translation.
Increasing glycolysis by deletion of kcs1 and arg82 improved S-adenosyl-l-methionine production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chen Hailong , Zhu Nianqing , Wang Yan , Gao Xinxin , Song Yuhe , Zheng Jia , Peng Jiaping , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2021

Reprogramming glycolysis for directing glycolytic metabolites to a specific metabolic pathway is expected to be useful for increasing microbial production of certain metabolites, such as amino acids, lipids or considerable secondary metabolites. In this report, a strategy of increasing glycolysis by altering the metabolism of inositol pyrophosphates (IPs) for improving the production of S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) for diverse pharmaceutical applications in yeast is presented. The genes associated with the metabolism of IPs, arg82, ipk1 and kcs1, were deleted, respectively, in the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae CGMCC 2842. It was observed that the deletions of kcs1 and arg82 increased SAM by 83.3 % and 31.8 %, respectively, compared to that of the control. In addition to the improved transcription levels of various glycolytic genes and activities of the relative enzymes, the levels of glycolytic intermediates and ATP were also enhanced. To further confirm the feasibility, the kcs1 was deleted in the high SAM-producing strain Ymls1ΔGAPmK which was deleted malate synthase gene mls1 and co-expressed the Acetyl-CoA synthase gene acs2 and the SAM synthase gene metK1 from Leishmania infantum, to obtain the recombinant strain Ymls1Δkcs1ΔGAPmK. The level of SAM in Ymls1Δkcs1ΔGAPmK reached 2.89 g L−1 in a 250-mL flask and 8.86 g L−1 in a 10-L fermentation tank, increasing 30.2 % and 46.2 %, respectively, compared to those levels in Ymls1ΔGAPmK. The strategy of increasing glycolysis by deletion of kcs1 and arg82 improved SAM production in yeast.
Aglycemic growth enhances carbohydrate metabolism and induces sensitivity to menadione in cultured tumor-derived cells
Authors: Schmidt Cameron A. , McLaughlin Kelsey L. , Boykov Ilya N. , Mojalagbe Rafiq , Ranganathan Arthi , Buddo Katherine A. , Lin Chien-Te , Fisher-Wellman Kelsey H. , Neufer P. Darrell
Published: January 2021

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of liver malignancy and carries poor prognoses due to late presentation of symptoms. Treatment of late-stage HCC relies heavily on chemotherapeutics, many of which target cellular energy metabolism. A key platform for testing candidate chemotherapeutic compounds is the intrahepatic orthotopic xenograft (IOX) model in rodents. Translational efficacy from the IOX model to clinical use is limited (in part) by variation in the metabolic phenotypes of the tumor-derived cells that can be induced by selective adaptation to subculture conditions.

Methods

In this study, a detailed multilevel systems approach combining microscopy, respirometry, potentiometry, and extracellular flux analysis (EFA) was utilized to examine metabolic adaptations that occur under aglycemic growth media conditions in HCC-derived (HEPG2) cells. We hypothesized that aglycemic growth would result in adaptive “aerobic poise” characterized by enhanced capacity for oxidative phosphorylation over a range of physiological energetic demand states.

Results

Aglycemic growth did not invoke adaptive changes in mitochondrial content, network complexity, or intrinsic functional capacity/efficiency. In intact cells, aglycemic growth markedly enhanced fermentative glycolytic substrate-level phosphorylation during glucose refeeding and enhanced responsiveness of both fermentation and oxidative phosphorylation to stimulated energy demand. Additionally, aglycemic growth induced sensitivity of HEPG2 cells to the provitamin menadione at a 25-fold lower dose compared to control cells.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that growth media conditions have substantial effects on the energy metabolism of subcultured tumor-derived cells, which may have significant implications for chemotherapeutic sensitivity during incorporation in IOX testing panels. Additionally, the metabolic phenotyping approach used in this study provides a practical workflow that can be incorporated with IOX screening practices to aid in deciphering the metabolic underpinnings of chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity.
What was the impact of a global pandemic (COVID-19) lockdown period on experiences within an eating disorder service? A service evaluation of the views of patients, parents/carers and staff
Authors: Shaw Hannah , Robertson Sarah , Ranceva Nadia
Published: January 2021

Background

The World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a global pandemic on the 11th March 2020. As a result, the UK Government imposed severe restrictions on working and social contact as part of “lockdown.” Whilst the full extent of the pandemic’s impact on eating disorder patients is unknown, the literature suggests that patients with pre-existing mental illness may be more vulnerable to the mental health impacts. In addition, the restrictions greatly reduced the access to mental health services and presented new challenges to service delivery. A service evaluation was carried out to explore how the COVID-19 global pandemic changed service provision in a young person’s eating disorder service and how this affected patient, family and staff experiences.

Methods

An audit was carried out to explore how the lockdown period had impacted referrals and service delivery. Quantitative data was collected in an online survey and qualitative data was collected in two formats: open ended answers as part of the online survey and open-ended focus groups, structured using narrative enquiry. The 43 participants consisted of 12 patients, 19 parents/carers, and 12 staff members. Patients were under the age of 18 and had a diagnosis of an eating disorder.

Results

COVID-19 and lockdown increased the pressure on the service and changed service provision significantly. This has impacted the relational experiences for patients and their carers and staff have been faced with new challenges. Patients, parents/carers and staff all preferred face-to-face appointments over virtual options. There was no difference in service satisfaction before and during COVID-19.

Conclusions

It is possible to provide an eating disorder service in lockdown restrictions that patients and parents report high satisfaction with. Providing face-to-face appointments at the beginning of treatment and including families in the planning should be prioritised. Staff support is crucial to be able to continue delivering high quality services. The key themes are identified, and clinical recommendations are made to guide service delivery.
Glioma cells require one-carbon metabolism to survive glutamine starvation
Authors: Tanaka Kazuhiro , Sasayama Takashi , Nagashima Hiroaki , Irino Yasuhiro , Takahashi Masatomo , Izumi Yoshihiro , Uno Takiko , Satoh Naoko , Kitta Akane , Kyotani Katsusuke , Fujita Yuichi , Hashiguchi Mitsuru , Nakai Tomoaki , Kohta Masaaki , Uozumi Yoichi , Shinohara Masakazu , Hosoda Kohkichi , Bamba Takeshi , Kohmura Eiji
Published: January 2021

Cancer cells optimize nutrient utilization to supply energetic and biosynthetic pathways. This metabolic process also includes redox maintenance and epigenetic regulation through nucleic acid and protein methylation, which enhance tumorigenicity and clinical resistance. However, less is known about how cancer cells exhibit metabolic flexibility to sustain cell growth and survival from nutrient starvation. Here, we find that serine and glycine levels were higher in low-nutrient regions of tumors in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients than they were in other regions. Metabolic and functional studies in GBM cells demonstrated that serine availability and one-carbon metabolism support glioma cell survival following glutamine deprivation. Serine synthesis was mediated through autophagy rather than glycolysis. Gene expression analysis identified upregulation of methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) to regulate one-carbon metabolism. In clinical samples, MTHFD2 expression was highest in the nutrient-poor areas around “pseudopalisading necrosis.” Genetic suppression of MTHFD2 and autophagy inhibition caused tumor cell death and growth inhibition of glioma cells upon glutamine deprivation. These results highlight a critical role for serine-dependent one-carbon metabolism in surviving glutamine starvation and suggest new therapeutic targets for glioma cells adapting to a low-nutrient microenvironment.
CoPart: a context-based partitioning technique for big data
Authors: Migliorini Sara , Belussi Alberto , Quintarelli Elisa , Carra Damiano
Published: January 2021

The MapReduce programming paradigm is frequently used in order to process and analyse a huge amount of data. This paradigm relies on the ability to apply the same operation in parallel on independent chunks of data. The consequence is that the overall performances greatly depend on the way data are partitioned among the various computation nodes. The default partitioning technique, provided by systems like Hadoop or Spark, basically performs a random subdivision of the input records, without considering the nature and correlation between them. Even if such approach can be appropriate in the simplest case where all the input records have to be always analyzed, it becomes a limit for sophisticated analyses, in which correlations between records can be exploited to preliminarily prune unnecessary computations. In this paper we design a context-based multi-dimensional partitioning technique, called CoPart, which takes care of data correlation in order to determine how records are subdivided between splits (i.e., units of work assigned to a computation node). More specifically, it considers not only the correlation of data w.r.t. contextual attributes, but also the distribution of each contextual dimension in the dataset. We experimentally compare our approach with existing ones, considering both quality criteria and the query execution times.
Coloured plastic mulches: impact on soil properties and crop productivity
Authors: Amare Getachew , Desta Bizuayehu
Published: January 2021

Mulches are materials applied in a soil surface for different roles and purposes. Plastic mulches with different colour have been developed and utilized in different crop production systems. Using coloured plastic mulches is mainly focused in modifying the radiation budget and decreasing the soil water loss. Besides, it helps to regulate soil temperature, water use efficiency, plant growth, yield, quality and weed and insect infestation. In this review, the knowledge and possible application of coloured plastic mulches, which can improve the soil physical properties, growth, yield, and quality crops has been reviewed and discussed. The role of coloured plastic mulches to mitigate the harmful effect of environmental stress in crops is also examined. Various physicochemical processes leading to improved crop production under the effect of coloured plastic mulches are also discussed. The combined results indicated that, effect of coloured plastic mulches is highly significant on soil temperature, moisture and water holding capacity. While black and blue plastics increase soil temperature, clear and white decreases it. Higher number of fruits, number of roots, tubers and bulbs was recorded in use of coloured plastic mulches. Similarly, the TSS, Vitamin C and juice percentage of different plants also showed significant improvement. It is also reported that weed infestation and viral diseases is highly reduced. Coloured plastic mulches also have some negative impacts like, decrease growth and yield in some plants, increase pest infestation, microplastics contamination, soil puddling, soil structural loss and reduce activity of soil-microorganisms. Therefore, use of coloured plastic mulches require close inspection of interaction with factors like; cropping season, root zone temperature, crop type, insect pest infestation and water use efficiency factors.
A rare case of neonatal colonic obstruction caused by a solitary intestinal tumor
Authors: Sugai Yu , Hirayama Yutaka , Iinuma Yasushi , Nakaya Kengo , Aikou Takato , Taki Shotaro , Hashidate Hideki , Kinoshita Yoshiaki
Published: January 2021

Background

Intestinal obstruction caused by a tumor is very rare in newborns, and the preoperative diagnosis is difficult. We herein report a rare case of neonatal colonic obstruction due to solitary intestinal myofibroma with characteristic findings on gastrografin enema and the surgical strategy.

Case presentation

A 4-day-old female infant presented to our neonatal intensive-care unit with abdominal distention and bilious vomiting after feeding. A gastrografin enema showed that the transverse colon near the hepatic flexure was not delineated at the oral side. When pressure was applied, a small amount of contrast material moved into the mouth in the form of threads. Microcolon was not observed, and stenosis of the transverse colon was found 9 cm from the Bauhin valve. Partial resection and end-to-end anastomosis were performed. A pathological examination of the resected specimen suggested gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). After obtaining a second opinion, the histology and immunohistological markers were deemed characteristic of infantile myofibroma.

Conclusion

If string sign and a napkin ring appearance are found in a case of neonatal intestinal obstruction, surgery should be performed with a tumor in mind. In cases of neonatal intestinal obstruction caused by a tumor, the lesion should be resected with a sufficient surgical margin before the pathological examination.
Classification of postoperative edema based on the anatomic division with mandibular third molar extraction
Authors: Jeong Yeong Kon , Ku Jeong-Kui , Baik Sung Hyun , You Jae-Seek , Leem Dae Ho , Choi Sun-Kyu
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Several investigations have been performed for a postoperative edema after extraction, but the results have been controversial due to low objectivity or poorly reproducible assessments of the edema. The aim of this study was to suggest a classification and patterns of postoperative edema according to the anatomical division associated with extraction of mandibular third molar as a qualitative evaluation method.

Methods

This study was conducted forty-four mandibular third molars extracted and MRI was taken within 48 h after extraction. The postoperative edema space was classified by MRI (one anatomic component—buccinator muscle—and four fascial spaces—supra-periosteum space, buccal space, parapharyngeal space, and lingual space), and evaluated independently by two examiners. The inter-examiner reliability was calculated using Kappa statistics.

Results

The evaluation of buccinator muscle edema showed good agreement and the fascial spaces showed constant high agreement. The incidence of postoperative edema was high in the following order: supra-periosteum space (75.00%), buccinator muscle (68.18%), parapharyngeal space (54.55%), buccal space (40.91%), and lingual space (25.00%).

Conclusion

Postoperative edema could be assessed clearly by each space, which showed a different tendency between the anatomic and fascial spaces.
Genomic Alterations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Level of Evidence According to ESMO Scale for Clinical Actionability of Molecular Targets (ESCAT)
Authors: Marret Grégoire , Bièche Ivan , Dupain Célia , Borcoman Edith , du Rusquec Pauline , Ricci Francesco , Hescot Ségolène , Sablin Marie-Paule , Tresca Patricia , Bello Diana , Dubot Coraline , Loirat Delphine , Frelaut Maxime , Lecerf Charlotte , Le Tourneau Christophe , Kamal Maud
Published: January 2021

Development of high-throughput technologies helped to decipher tumor genomic landscapes revealing actionable molecular alterations. We aimed to rank the level of evidence of recurrent actionable molecular alterations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) on the basis of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Scale for Clinical Actionability of Molecular Targets (ESCAT) to help the clinicians prioritize treatment. We identified actionable alterations in 33 genes. HRAS-activating mutations were ranked in tier IB because of the efficacy of tipifarnib (farnesyltransferase inhibitor) in HRAS-mutated patients with HNSCC (nonrandomized clinical trial). Microsatellite instability (MSI), high tumor mutational burden (TMB), and NTRK fusions were ranked in tier IC because of PD-1 and TRK tyrosine kinase inhibitors tissue-agnostic approvals. CDKN2A-inactivating alterations and EGFR amplification were ranked in tier IIA because of the efficacy of palbociclib (CDK4/6 inhibitor) and afatinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) in these respective molecular subgroups in retrospective analyses of clinical trials. Molecular alterations in several genes, including PIK3CA gene, were ranked in tier IIIA because of clinical benefit in other tumor types, whereas molecular alterations in IGF1R and TP53 genes were ranked in tier IVA and tier V, respectively. The most compelling actionable molecular alterations in HNSCC according to ESCAT include HRAS-activating mutations, MSI, high TMB, NTRK fusions, CDKN2A-inactivating alterations, and EGFR amplification.
Tolerability of Breast Radiotherapy Among Carriers of ATM Germline Variants
Authors: Modlin Leslie A. , Flynn Jessica , Zhang Zhigang , Cahlon Oren , Mueller Boris , Khan Atif J. , Gillespie Erin F. , McCormick Beryl , Stadler Zsofia K. , Robson Mark E. , Powell Simon N. , Braunstein Lior Z.
Published: January 2021

PURPOSE

ATM, a gene that controls repair of DNA double-strand breaks, confers an excess lifetime risk of breast cancer among carriers of germline pathogenic variants (PV). ATM PV homozygotes are particularly sensitive to DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation. Consequently, there is concern that adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) may cause excess morbidity among heterozygous carriers of ATM PV. We evaluated the tolerability of breast RT among carriers of ATM germline variants.

METHODS

Of 167 patients with ATM germline variants presenting to our institution with breast cancer, 91 received RT. Treatment-related toxicity was ascertained from medical records and graded across organ systems. Toxicities grade > 2 were recorded from the end of treatment to last evaluable follow-up and were analyzed according to ATM variant pathogenicity.

RESULTS

Of 91 evaluable carriers of ATM variants, with a median follow-up of 32 months following RT, 25% (n = 23) harbored a PV, whereas 75% (n = 68) harbored a variant of uncertain significance (VUS). Prevalence of grade ≥ 2 toxicity unrelated to post-mastectomy reconstruction among patients with ATM PV was: 32% at the end of treatment ( v 34% for VUS carriers), 11% at 1 year of follow-up ( v 4% for VUS carriers), and 8% at the last follow-up ( v 13% for VUS carriers), consistent with previous studies of RT among unselected populations. No grade 4 or 5 toxicities were observed. ATM variant pathogenicity was not associated with local toxicity, contralateral breast cancer, or secondary malignancy in this limited cohort of patients who received breast RT.

CONCLUSION

We found no evidence of excess RT-associated toxicity among carriers of pathogenic ATM germline variants. Breast-conserving therapy and adjuvant RT may be safely considered among appropriately selected carriers of ATM germline variants.
Evaluation of Microwave Vacuum Drying as an Alternative to Freeze-Drying of Biologics and Vaccines: the Power of Simple Modeling to Identify a Mechanism for Faster Drying Times Achieved with Microwave
Authors: Bhambhani Akhilesh , Stanbro Justin , Roth Daniel , Sullivan Elizabeth , Jones Morrisa , Evans Robert , Blue Jeffrey
Published: January 2021

Vial-based lyophilization for biopharmaceuticals has been an indispensable cornerstone process for over 50 years. However, the process is not without significant challenges. Capital costs to realize a lyophilized drug product facility, for example, are very high. Similarly, heat and mass transfer limitations inherent in lyophilization result in drying cycle on the order of several days while putting practical constraints on available formulation space, such as solute mass percentage or fill volume in a vial. Through collaboration with an external partner, we are exploring microwave vacuum drying (MVD) as a faster drying process to vial lyophilization wherein the heat transfer process occurs by microwave radiation instead of pure conduction from the vial. Drying using this radiative process demonstrates greater than 80% reduction in drying time over traditional freeze-drying times while maintaining product activity and stability. Such reduction in freeze-drying process times from days to several hours is a welcome change as it enables flexible manufacturing by being able to better react to changes either in terms of product volume for on-demand manufacturing scenarios or facilities for production (e.g., scale-out over scale-up). Additionally, by utilizing first-principle modeling coupled with experimental verification, a mechanism for faster drying times associated with MVD is proposed in this article. This research, to the best of our knowledge, forms the very first report of utilizing microwave vacuum drying for vaccines while utilizing the power of simplified models to understand drying principles associated with MVD.
Equipment Capability Measurement of Laboratory Freeze-Dryers: a Comparison of Two Methods
Authors: Srinivasan Jayasree M. , Sacha Gregory A. , Kshirsagar Vaibhav , Alexeenko Alina , Nail Steven L.
Published: January 2021

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate two methods for measuring the maximum sublimation rate that a freeze-dryer will support—the minimum controllable pressure method and the choke point method. Both methods gave equivalent results, but the minimum controllable pressure method is preferred, since it is easier, faster, and less subjective. The ratio of chamber pressure to condenser pressure corresponding to the onset of choked flow was considerably higher in this investigation (up to about 20:1) than in previously published reports. This ratio was not affected by the location of the pressure gauge on the condenser; that is, on the foreline of the vacuum pump versus on the body of the condenser itself. The total water loss due to sublimation as measured by tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy was consistently within 5% of gravimetrically determined weight loss, regardless of whether the measurement took place during choked versus non-choked process conditions.
The Anesthetic Challenges of Caring for a Pediatric Patient With Incontinentia Pigmenti: A Case Report
Authors: Baig Shabaaz M. , Pandya Shah Shridevi
Published: January 2021

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare X-linked dominant disorder. We present a case of an infant with IP who was brought to the operating room for panretinal diode photocoagulation under general anesthesia. The anesthesia team was unable to obtain intravenous access even with instruments such as a vein finder and ultrasound. Anesthesia for IP patients also poses challenges such as prevention of the oculocardiac reflex, obesity and airway management, and preemptive measures for intravenous access due to skin manifestations. Patients with IP may present with many challenges for the anesthesiologist during all phases of anesthetic management.
Altered cytoskeletal arrangement in induced pluripotent stem cells and motor neurons from patients with riboflavin transporter deficiency
Authors: Niceforo Alessia , Marioli Chiara , Colasuonno Fiorella , Petrini Stefania , Massey Keith , Tartaglia Marco , Bertini Enrico , Moreno Sandra , Compagnucci Claudia
Published: January 2021

The cytoskeletal network plays a crucial role in the differentiation, morphogenesis, function and homeostasis of the nervous tissue, so that alterations in any of its components may lead to neurodegenerative diseases. Riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD), a childhood-onset disorder characterized by degeneration of motor neurons (MNs), is caused by biallelic mutations in genes encoding the human riboflavin (RF) transporters. In a patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) model of RTD, we recently demonstrated altered cell-cell contacts, energy dysmetabolism and redox imbalance. The present study focuses on cytoskeletal composition and dynamics associated to RTD, utilizing patients' iPSCs and derived MNs. Abnormal expression and distribution of α- and β-tubulin (α- and β-TUB), as well as imbalanced tyrosination of α-TUB, accompanied by an impaired ability to re-polymerize after nocodazole treatment, were found in RTD patient-derived iPSCs. Following differentiation, MNs showed consistent changes in TUB content, which was associated with abnormal morphofunctional features, such as neurite length and Ca2+ homeostasis, suggesting impaired differentiation. Beneficial effects of RF supplementation, alone or in combination with the antioxidant molecule N-acetyl cystine (NAC), were assessed. RF administration resulted in partially improved cytoskeletal features in patients' iPSCs and MNs, suggesting that redundancy of transporters may rescue cell functionality in the presence of adequate concentrations of the vitamin. Moreover, supplementation with NAC was demonstrated to be effective in restoring all the considered parameters, when used in combination with RF, thus supporting the therapeutic use of both compounds.
Ammonia Combustion Catalysts
Authors: Hinokuma Satoshi , Sato Kazuhiko
Published: January 2021

Recent developments for ammonia (NH3) combustion catalysts are covered in this highlight review. NH3 has been proposed as a renewable and carbon-free energy source. However, use of NH3 fuel poses the problems of high ignition temperature and nitrogen oxide (N2O/NOx) production. In order to overcome these issues, a novel catalytic combustion system was probed, and high performance catalysts were developed. This review introduces their research with including related studies.
Foucault e a teoria queer: seguido de Ágape e êxtase – orientações pós-seculares
Authors: De Paiva Mário Jorge
Published: January 2021

O presente texto é uma resenha crítica do livro Foucault e a teoria queer: seguido de Ágape e êxtase – orientações pós-seculares, obra composta por dois textos de Tamsin Spargo e um posfácio de Richard Miskolci. Em que observaremos os acertos e os pontos falhos do livro, mostrando como seu maior mérito é realizar uma didática introdução a Teoria Queer, e sua relação com Michel Foucault, mesmo que o texto termine por não aprofundar em uma série de questões mais avançadas.
A questão racial em “O custo dos direitos”
Authors: Silva Tales Araújo
Published: January 2021

Resenha crítica do livro “O custo dos direitos: por que a liberdade depende dos impostos”, de Stephen Holmes e Cass R. Sunstein, em que os autores discutem a teoria dos direitos fundamentais para além da limitada divisão entre direitos positivos e negativos, revelando que até mesmo aqueles didaticamente conhecidos como de primeira dimensão, como a liberdade e a propriedade, geram custos para o Estado. Aqui, evidencia-se a ligação dessas discussões às questões raciais, principalmente a partir da visão dos direitos sociais como acordos, concebida pelos autores na obra.
Os primórdios da black music brasileira e da linguagem política do orgulho negro nos anos 1960
Authors: Morais Bruno Vinícius Leite de
Published: January 2021

Este artigo utiliza a documentação fonográfica para situar o surgimento da Black Music Brasileira nos anos 1960, a partir de hibridações e incorporações de gêneros musicais estadunidenses. Nos primeiros discos lançados por Elza Soares, Jorge Ben, Wilson Simonal e Dom Salvador é identificada a articulação de subgêneros negros do jazz, no que foi chamado de Bossa Negra. Na segunda metade da década ocorre uma incorporação mais explícita do soul e o funk, consolidando a estética Black no Brasil. Nos discos pesquisados também é identificada uma abordagem temática que valoriza a cultura negra e denuncia o preconceito racial. O diálogo com elementos estrangeiros na expressão da realidade racial nas músicas e letras compõe o que está sendo proposto por Linguagem Política do Orgulho Negro.
A democracia racial como um projeto de planificação social no pensamento de Guerreiro Ramos
Authors: Pallisser Silva Nikolas , Caldas Alan
Published: January 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é investigar o projeto político gerado em torno da democracia racial pela intelligentsia negra dos anos de 1940 e 1950, com foco na perspectiva de Guerreiro Ramos. Mostramos a partir de que perspectiva esse projeto foi desenvolvido, para quem ele se dirigia, quais suas razões sociológicas e qual sua legitimidade no contexto brasileiro. Em seguida, mostramos como ele pretendia atuar na canalização das irracionalidades produzidas pela mudança da estrutura social de uma ordem escravocrata e patrimonial para uma ordem competitiva e racional-burocrática. Por fim, encerramos indicando ações do Teatro Experimental do Negro que concretamente colocavam em prática esse projeto.
Study Protocol for DeCOmPRESS: Defining the Disease Course and Immune Profile of COVID-19 in the Immunosuppressed Patient
Authors: Leacy Emma , Brady Gareth , Conlon Niall , Scott Jennifer , Dunne Jean , Phelan Thomas , McCormack William J. , Griffin Matthew D. , Kennedy Alan , Verrelli Alyssa , Molloy Eamonn , O'Sullivan Declan , Power Julie , Clarkson Michael , Zgaga Lina , O'Saughnessy Michelle , Little Mark A.
Published: January 2021

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Current advisory guidelines for high-risk groups—including people with autoimmune disease taking immunosuppressive therapies—are to take increased precautions and avoid any unnecessary contacts. The aim of the DeCOmPRESS study is to define the disease course and immune profile of COVID-19 in immunosuppressed patients. We will clinically phenotype patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) who develop COVID-19 using a customized REDCap data collection instrument embedded within the Rare Kidney Disease (RKD) Biobank. This dataset will be interoperable with the rheum-COVID, Global Rheumatology Alliance, and SPRINT-SARI datasets, facilitating international data linkage. Acute and convalescent blood samples will be analysed by flow cytometry and ELISA to define the immunophenotype and cytokine profile. Patients will track COVID-19 and AAV symptoms through a bespoke smartphone app. DeCOmPRESS study findings will rapidly inform management of immunosuppressed patients who contract COVID-19 by defining the natural history and immunological manifestations of the disease in these patients. We will also determine whether pre-existing immunosuppressant therapy lessens the cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19 disease, thereby paradoxically improving rather than worsening clinical outcomes. This protocol document details the procedures for end-to-end completion of the DeCOmPRESS project and is complemented by an associated comprehensive Study Manual (accessible at: https://www.tcd.ie/medicine/thkc/decompress/).
Is acceptance of disease and life satisfaction of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis dependent on BMI?
Authors: Górczewska Bogumiła , Jakubowska-Pietkiewicz Elżbieta
Published: January 2021

Cel pracy

Ocena poziomu akceptacji choroby i satysfakcji z życia kobiet z osteoporozą pomenopauzalną w zależności od wskaźnika masy ciała.

Metoda

Badaniem objęto grupę 198 kobiet, w wieku 72,31±8,59 lat z rozpoznaną osteoporozą pomenopauzalną w dwóch Poradniach Leczenia Osteoporozy na terenie miasta Łodzi. W pracy wykorzystano kwestionariusz Skali Akceptacji Choroby (AIS), Skali Satysfakcji z Życia (SWLS), skalę oceny bólu (VAS) oraz ankietę własnego autorstwa.

Wyniki

Średnia w skali AIS wyniosła 25,95±10,2 punktów, co świadczy o średnim poziomie akceptacji oraz adaptacji do choroby badanej grupy. Poziom satysfakcji z życia oceniany w SWLS wyniósł średnio 19,37±7,31 punktów i wskazuje na przeciętne zadowolenie z życia. W grupie badanej najniższą akceptację choroby (24,38±11,3 pkt.) miały osoby z niedowagą. Natomiast najniższą satysfakcję z życia (17,75±7,50 pkt.) wykazały kobiety z otyłością. Badane prezentowały łagodny poziom bólu oceniony w skali VAS (4,87±2,39 pkt.). Ankietowane z prawidłową masą ciała najlepiej oceniały swój stan psychiczny pod względem akceptacji choroby oraz satysfakcji z życia.

Wnioski

Poziom akceptacji choroby oraz stopień zadowolenia z życia kobiet z osteoporozą pomenopauzalną nie różni się istotnie statystycznie w zależności od wskaźnika masy ciała. Wykazano, że im większa akceptacja choroby, tym większa satysfakcja z życia osób chorych na osteoporozę. Aspekty psychologiczne (kwestionariusz AIS, SWLS) powinny być elementem oceny efektywności terapii u osób przewlekle leczonych z powodu osteoporozy pomenopauzalnej.
Managing Congestion in Matching Markets
Authors: Arnosti Nick , Johari Ramesh , Kanoria Yash
Published: January 2021

Problem definition : Participants in matching markets face search and screening costs when seeking a match. We study how platform design can reduce the effort required to find a suitable partner. Practical/academic relevance : The success of matching platforms requires designs that minimize search effort and facilitate efficient market clearing. Methodology : We study a game-theoretic model in which “applicants” and “employers” pay costs to search and screen. An important feature of our model is that both sides may waste effort: Some applications are never screened, and employers screen applicants who may have already matched. We prove existence and uniqueness of equilibrium and characterize welfare for participants on both sides of the market. Results : We identify that the market operates in one of two regimes: It is either screening-limited or application-limited. In screening-limited markets, employer welfare is low, and some employers choose not to participate. This occurs when application costs are low and there are enough employers that most applicants match, implying that many screened applicants are unavailable. In application-limited markets, applicants face a “tragedy of the commons” and send many applications that are never read. The resulting inefficiency is worst when there is a shortage of employers. We show that simple interventions—such as limiting the number of applications that an individual can send, making it more costly to apply, or setting an appropriate market-wide wage—can significantly improve the welfare of agents on one or both sides of the market. Managerial implications : Our results suggest that platforms cannot focus exclusively on attracting participants and making it easy to contact potential match partners. A good user experience requires that participants not waste effort considering possibilities that are unlikely to be available. The operational interventions we study alleviate congestion by ensuring that potential match partners are likely to be available.
Multilevel Approaches for the Critical Node Problem
Authors: Baggio Andrea , Carvalho Margarida , Lodi Andrea , Tramontani Andrea
Published: January 2021

Multilevel programming can provide the right mathematical formulations for modeling sequential decision-making problems. In such cases, it is implicit that each level anticipates the optimal reaction of the subsequent ones. Defender–attacker–defender trilevel programs are a particular case of interest that encompasses a fortification strategy, followed by an attack, and a consequent recovery defensive strategy. In “Multilevel Approaches for the Critical Node Problem,” Baggio, Carvalho, Lodi, and Tramontani study a combinatorial sequential game between a defender and an attacker that takes place in a network. The authors propose an exact algorithmic framework. This work highlights the significant improvements that the defender can achieve by taking the three-stage game into account instead of considering fortification and recovery as isolated. Simultaneously, the paper contributes to advancing the methodologies for solving trilevel programs.
POTENCIALIZANDO O ENSINO DE MATEMÁTICA ATRAVÉS DE OBJETOS DE APRENDIZAGEM
Authors: Lavor Otávio Paulino , Martins Kaliane Morais de Lucena
Published: January 2021

O processo de ensino e aprendizagem atravessa dificuldades e uma das causas é a falta de motivação do público envolvido. Como as tecnologias estão cada vez mais presentes nas escolas brasileiras, se abre possibilidades para o ensino da matemática e a demanda por sua incorporação no processo de ensino e aprendizagem na sala de aula se torna comum e tende a fazer parte do cotidiano da escola e dos alunos. Diante disto, propõe-se o uso dos objetos de aprendizagem, que são recursos tecnológicos reutilizáveis, como instrumentos didáticos nas aulas de matemática a fim de superar barreiras e dificuldades de aprendizagem. A pesquisa analisa a importância de trabalhar com objetos de aprendizagem para o ensino de matemática e para isso, questiona os professores de matemática do ensino médio de uma escola paraibana. Constatou-se que os professores tiveram formação sem o uso de tecnologias, mas estão lecionando para alunos imersos em ambiente tecnológico. A partir daí, uma oficina de objetos de aprendizagem conscientiza os professores com a apresentação dos recursos e como utilizá-los, levando a uma potencialização na construção do conhecimento e no entusiasmo para ensinar e aprender.
VISÕES SOBRE O ISEB: PERSPECTIVAS E APONTAMENTOS CRÍTICOS SOBRE O INSTITUTO
Authors: Muller Hugo
Published: January 2021

O presente artigo visa debater como que as Ciências Sociais se debruçaram sobre o Instituto Superior de Estudos Brasileiros após a sua extinção. A partir de um balanço crítico de obras referenciais sobre o Instituto, apontaremos alguns recursos teóricos e analíticos que se tornaram constantes. Proporemos a distinção entre duas fases das Ciências Sociais brasileira acerca do ISEB: a “fase crítica” e a “fase de reabilitação”.
EDUCACIÓN TECNOLÓGICA Y PROFESIONAL INTEGRADA A LA EDUCACIÓN BÁSICA EN PERSPECTIVA UNITARIA
Authors: Miranda Neves Bruno , Camargo Kerolin
Published: January 2021

O texto se propõe a apresentar conceitos centrais para a organização de práticas pedagógicas que integrem a Educação Tecnológica e Profissional à Educação Básica, com vistas ao pleno desenvolvimento das capacidades humanas dentro da perspectiva de garantia da dupla cidadania (social e econômica) nas sociedades contemporâneas. Por isso, nos dispusemos a expor as bases ético-políticas da Pedagogia Histórico-Crítica (PHC); algumas ideias chaves para organização do currículo integrado que supere a tendência hegemônica da Ideologia das Competências, e apontamentos teóricos e metodológicos para fundamentar projetos políticos pedagógicos que integrem trabalho, ciência, cultura e tecnologia para reunificação das dimensões manuais e intelectuais do trabalho.
ESCOLAS DO RIO DE JANEIRO OCUPADAS: NOVOS MOVIMENTOS SOCIAIS E A VONTADE COLETIVA ESTUDANTIL
Authors: Bastos Rafael , Da Costa Viviane Marinho
Published: January 2021

O objeto deste texto consiste na análise de ocupações de escolas públicas da rede básica de educação do estado do Rio de Janeiro. As metodologias utilizadas foram: observação participante em quatro escolas das regiões metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro e da serrana; análises das representações sociais dos discentes (obtida por meio de questionários, entrevistas e consulta a páginas em mídias sociais). Verificamos que as experiências políticas vividas, assim como o contexto contemporâneo de mobilizações sociais constantes (sobretudo por meio do uso de redes sociais), foram significativas para a construção da vontade coletiva dos sujeitos envolvidos nas ocupações. Nos apoiamos no pensamento de Gramsci para discutir as possibilidades e contradições do debate complexo que estes Novos Movimentos Sociais brasileiros protagonizam.  Esta investigação permitiu sistematizar um conjunto de categorias de conteúdo que expressam demandas contemporâneas, tais como as características da luta desses jovens por uma educação de qualidade, além do empoderamento feminino.
O DESAFIO EDUCACIONAL” DE FLORESTAN FERNANDES
Authors: Frigotto Gaudêncio
Published: January 2021

Eu nunca teria sido o sociólogo em que me converti sem o meu passado e sem a socialização pré e extraescolar que recebi através das duras lições da vida. (...) ainda que isso pareça pouco ortodoxo e anti-intelectualista, afirmo que iniciei a minha aprendizagem sociológica aos seis anos, quando precisei ganhar a vida como se fosse um adulto.” (FERNANDES, 1994, p. 1)
“It’s in our DNA”: perspectives on co-producing services in the UK voluntary sector
Authors: Hannibal Claire , Martikke Susanne
Published: January 2021

In this paper we report on the perceptions of co-production in the UK voluntary, community and social enterprise sector from those directly involved. We conducted five case studies, each involving interviews with two people who had formed a co-production relationship. We found positive perceptions of co-production from all interviewees. We suggest organisational and individual factors that are important to successful co-production and provide practical examples. We reflect on implications for practice by considering co-production relationships, time and resources.
Voluntary sector peak bodies during the COVID-19 crisis: a case study of Philanthropy Australia
Authors: Seibert Krystian , Williamson Alexandra , Moran Michael
Published: January 2021

The Australian philanthropic sector’s peak (or umbrella) membership body, Philanthropy Australia, has played a significant role in shaping sector responses to COVID-19 and influencing government policy initiatives regarding the voluntary sector. This research note explores four key actions taken by Philanthropy Australia, with a particular focus on policy advocacy. It highlights how ‘policy windows’ provide opportunities for voluntary sector peak bodies to demonstrate policy entrepreneurship, secure desirable policy outcomes and show their value to members, government and other stakeholders. ‘Bad times’ require new and innovative policy responses, and this research note provides insights into how voluntary sector peak bodies can shape policy and practice responses to major crises.
Investments in the imaginary: commercial drone speculations and relations
Authors: Jackman Anna , Jablonowski Maximilian
Published: January 2021

Drones are increasingly understood and imagined as important actors, inhabiting and transforming aerial space. From their entrenched establishment within battlefield operations, drones have spawned into a diverse ecosystem of platforms and applications, increasingly punctuating domestic urban airspace. While occupying a status as exemplars of urban innovation, the drone poses, and remains bound to, a range of techno-cultural contestations – from challenges around airspace integration, to concerns around privacy, safety and pollution. Thinking with commercial drone futures, and specifically the logistics sector, this article interrogates the role of speculation in this unfolding techno-landscape. In so doing we turn to two key sites through which the drone is anticipated – namely patents and adverts – as lenses through which to investigate projected visualisations underpinning the emergent, envisioned and anticipated drone. We argue that such drone speculations do not simply and solely envision new means of circulating goods, people and information, but rather embody and act to promote a particular set of aerial desires and social relations. Critically unpacking envisioned notions of frictionless mobility, instant consumption, and the appropriation of vertical spaces and spectra, we argue that such speculative sites and practices importantly participate in a techno-fetishist agenda positing drone technology as a privileged and panacea agent of futurity, while often eliding its implications.
Researching parental leave during a pandemic: lessons from black feminist theory and relationality
Authors: Hamilton Patricia
Published: January 2021

In this Open Space piece, my aim is to meditate on the current moment, to draw connections between relationality and black feminist theory and to harness the strategies and tools they might offer; a praxis for living and being in the world as well as changing it. In particular, I will use my project, an intersectional examination of parental leave in the UK, as a lens through which to discover what intellectual and methodological possibilities a relational approach might offer, especially as I carry out research in a post-COVID-19 world, a world in which black lives appear to matter.