bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Expression of Plasma miRNA-320a and let-7b-5p in Heroin-Dependent Patients and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Liu Haixiong , Xu Wenjin , Feng Jiying , Ma Hong , Zhang Jianbin , Xie Xiaohu , Zhuang Dingding , Shen Wenwen , Liu Huifen , Zhou Wenhua
Published: June 2021

Heroin use disorder is a chronic and relapsing disease that induces persistent changes in the brain. The diagnoses of heroin use disorders are mainly based on subjective reports and no valid biomarkers available. Recent researches have revealed that circulating miRNAs are useful non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosing brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. However, studies on circulating miRNAs for the diagnosis of heroin use disorders are rarely reported. In this study, we investigated the differential expression of plasma miRNAs in 57 heroin-dependent patients. Based on literature research and microarray analysis, two candidate miRNAs, miR-320a and let-7b-5p, were selected and analyzed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. The results showed miR-320a and let-7b were significantly upregulated in plasma of the heroin-dependent patients compared to that in healthy controls. The area under curves (AUCs) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of miR-320a and let-7b-5p were 0.748 and 0.758, respectively. The sensitivities of miR-320a and let-7b-5p were 71.9 and 70.2%, while the specificities of miR-320a and let-7b-5p were 76.1 and 78.3%, respectively. The combination of these two miRNAs predicted heron dependence with an AUC of 0.782 (95% CI 0.687–0.876), with 73.7% sensitivity and 82.6% specificity. Our findings suggest a potential use for circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis of heroin abuse.
COVID-19 Preparedness and Response: Validation of a Rapid Assessment Tool to Evaluate Priorities of Health Workers at the Grassroots Level
Authors: Tran Bach Xuan , Hoang Chi Linh , Nguyen Nguyen Thao Thi , Le Huong Thi , Pham Hai Quang , Hoang Men Thi , Nguyen Tu Huu , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: June 2021

Since the initial phases of the COVID-19 outbreak, international recommendations for disease control have been readily available. However, blind implementation of these recommendations without grassroot-level support could result in public distrust and low adherence. This study evaluated the use of a public health priorities survey to rapidly assess perceptions of local health workers. A cross-sectional study using a web-based survey was conducted among 5,847 health workers and medical students from January to February 2020 to evaluate the level of prioritization of various public health measures. Measures with the highest levels of prioritization were “Early prevention, environmental sanitation, and improvement of population health” and “Mobilization of community participation in disease control,” which were concordant with policies implemented by the Vietnamese government. This study also demonstrated a high level of internal validity among survey items and shared ranking of priorities among all occupational groups. The use of this public health priorities survey was found to be effective in identifying priorities as identified by grassroots health workers to provide real-time feedback to the national government. However, future iterations of this survey should consider limiting the use of each prioritization score to ensure that responses represent the reality of source limitations and consider focusing on medical professionals and community workers due medical students' limited experience with Vietnam's healthcare infrastructure.
Dissemination Dynamics of Receding Words: A Diachronic Case Study of Whom
Authors: Bohmann Axel , Bohmann Martin , Hinrichs Lars
Published: June 2021

We explore the relationship between word dissemination and frequency change for a rapidly receding feature, the relativizer whom. The success of newly emerging words has been shown to correlate with high dissemination scores. However, the reverse—a correlation of lower dissemination scores with receding features—has not been investigated. Based on two established and two newly developed measures of word dissemination—across texts, linguistic environments, registers, and topics—we show that a general correlation between dissemination and frequency does not obtain in the case of whom. Different dissemination measures diverge from each other and show internally variable developments. These can, however, be explained with reference to the specific sociolinguistic history of whom over the past 300 years. Our findings suggest that the relationship between dissemination and word success is not static, but needs to be contextualized against different stages in individual words’ life-cycles. Our study demonstrates the applicability of large-scale, quantitative measures to qualitatively informed sociolinguistic research.
Runners Adapt Different Lower-Limb Movement Patterns With Respect to Different Speeds and Downhill Slopes
Authors: Sundström David , Kurz Markus , Björklund Glenn
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of slope and speed on lower-limb kinematics and energy cost of running. Six well-trained runners (VO2max 72 ± 6 mL·kg−1·min−1) were recruited for the study and performed (1) VO2max and energy cost tests and (2) an experimental running protocol at two speeds, 12 km·h−1 and a speed corresponding to 80% of VO2max (V80, 15.8 ± 1.3 km·h−1) on three different slopes (0°, −5°, and −10°), totaling six 5-min workload conditions. The workload conditions were randomly ordered and performed continuously. The tests lasted 30 min in total. All testing was performed on a large treadmill (3 × 5 m) that offered control over both speed and slope. Three-dimensional kinematic data of the right lower limb were captured during the experimental running protocol using eight infrared cameras with a sampling frequency of 150 Hz. Running kinematics were calculated using a lower body model and inverse kinematics approach. The generic model contained three, one, and two degrees of freedom at the hip, knee, and ankle joints, respectively. Oxygen uptake was measured throughout the experimental protocol. Maximum hip extension and flexion during the stance phase increased due to higher speed (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). Knee extension at the touchdown and maximal knee flexion in the stance phase both increased on steeper downhill slopes (both p < 0.05). Ground contact time (GCT) decreased as the speed increased (p < 0.01) but was unaffected by slope (p = 0.73). Runners modified their hip movement pattern in the sagittal plane in response to changes in speed, whereas they altered their knee movement pattern during the touchdown and stance phases in response to changes in slope. While energy cost of running was unaffected by speed alone (p = 0.379), a shift in energy cost was observed for different speeds as the downhill gradient increased (p < 0.001). Energy cost was lower at V80 than 12 km·h−1 on a −5° slope but worse on a −10° slope. This indicates that higher speeds are more efficient on moderate downhill slopes (−5°), while lower speeds are more efficient on steeper downhill slopes (−10°).
Spatiotemporal Small Non-coding RNAs Expressed in the Germline as an Early Biomarker of Testicular Toxicity and Transgenerational Effects Caused by Prenatal Exposure to Nanosized Particles
Authors: Yokota Satoshi , Takeda Ken , Oshio Shigeru
Published: June 2021

In recent years, an apparent decline in human sperm quality has been observed worldwide. One in every 5.5 couples suffers from infertility, with male reproductive problems contributing to nearly 40% of all infertility cases. Although the reasons for the increasing number of infertility cases are largely unknown, both genetic and environmental factors can be contributing factors. In particular, exposure to chemical substances during mammalian male germ cell development has been linked to an increased risk of infertility in later life owing to defective sperm production, reproductive tract obstruction, inflammation, and sexual disorders. Prenatal exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) is no exception. In animal experiments, maternal exposure to NMs has been reported to affect the reproductive health of male offspring. Male germ cells require multiple epigenetic reprogramming events during their lifespan to acquire reproductive capacity. Given that spermatozoa deliver the paternal genome to oocytes upon fertilization, we hypothesized that maternal exposure to NMs negatively affects male germ cells by altering epigenetic regulation, which may in turn affect embryo development. Small non-coding RNAs (including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, tRNA-derived small RNAs, and rRNA-derived small RNAs), which are differentially expressed in mammalian male germ cells in a spatiotemporal manner, could play important regulatory roles in spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. Thus, the evaluation of RNAs responsible for sperm fertility is of great interest in reproductive toxicology and medicine. However, whether the effect of maternal exposure to NMs on spermatogenesis in the offspring (intergenerational effects) really triggers multigenerational effects remains unclear, and infertility biomarkers for evaluating paternal inheritance have not been identified to date. In this review, existing lines of evidence on the effects of prenatal exposure to NMs on male reproduction are summarized. A working hypothesis of the transgenerational effects of sperm-derived epigenomic changes in the F1 generation is presented, in that such maternal exposure could affect early embryonic development followed by deficits in neurodevelopment and male reproduction in the F2 generation.
Vaccination Failure in Eradication and Control Programs for Bovine Viral Diarrhea Infection
Authors: Antos Aleksandra , Miroslaw Pawel , Rola Jerzy , Polak Miroslaw Pawel
Published: June 2021

Vaccination against bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is one of the key elements to protect cattle herds from this economically important disorder. Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is a pestivirus infecting animals at all ages with significant impact on reproductive, digestive, and respiratory systems. Financial burden caused by this pathogen prompts many farmers to introduce vaccination as the control and prophylactic measure especially when persistently infected (PI) individuals, being the main source of the virus in the herd, are removed after test-and-cull approach. The aim of the study was to compare the serological response in cattle herds where new PI calves were identified without prior removal of PI animals or despite their removal and after the introduction of whole herd vaccination against BVDV infection. Overall seroprevalence in 5 vaccinated herds was 91.7 and 83.3% using ELISA and virus neutralization test, respectively. Despite high titers for both vaccine and field strains of BVDV in analyzed herds the analysis of comparative strength of neutralization indicated that 41.4% of positive samples did not have a predominant titer against one specific subtype of BVDV. In 3 herds BVDV-1b subtype was identified while in 2 others it was BVDV-1d, while the vaccine used was based on BVDV-1a which was never identified in Poland so far. To increase the success of the BVDV eradication program, a careful approach is suggested when planning herd vaccination. Comparison of existing field strains and their similarity with vaccine strains at antigenic and genetic levels can be a useful approach to increase the effectiveness of vaccination and efficient protection of fetuses from persistent infection.
Efficacy of Clarithromycin Depends on the Bacterial Density in Clarithromycin-Heteroresistant Helicobacter pylori Infections: An In Situ Detected Susceptibility and Quantitative Morphometry-Based Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Jewel Ju Ea , Kocsmár Ildikó , Buzás György Miklós , Szirtes Ildikó , Rusz Orsolya , Diczházi Csaba , Szijártó Attila , Hritz István , Schaff Zsuzsa , Kiss András , Kocsmár Éva , Lotz Gábor
Published: June 2021

The global rise in clarithromycin (Cla) resistance is considered to be the main contributor of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) eradication failures. In nearly half of the Cla-resistant Hp infections, Cla-susceptible bacteria are simultaneously present with the Cla-resistant ones (Cla-heteroresistance). The proportion of resistant bacteria in the bacterial population (R-fraction) and its predictive role for the use of Cla-based therapies in Cla-heteroresistant infections has not yet been investigated. Our retrospective study analyzed gastric biopsy samples of 62 Hp-positive patients with Cla-heteroresistant infection. Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization technique was used to visualize the coexistence of resistant and susceptible bacteria within one tissue sample. R-fraction was quantified on multichannel microimages by digital morphometry. Resistant bacteria had a patchy distribution within the whole bacterial population causing high diversity among the investigated areas. Patients were subdivided into two major groups according to whether a Cla-based eradication attempt was conducted before or after the biopsy sampling. R-fraction was significantly lower among cases having only one previous Cla-based eradication attempt vs. those that had multiple previous eradications, including at least one Cla-containing therapy (0.41 vs. 0.89, p = 0.0308). Majority of the patients without previous eradication attempt had successful eradication with Cla-containing regimen (59.26%), verified by a negative 13C-urea breath test or control biopsy. Multivariable model indicated that the therapeutic outcome using Cla-based regimens depended on the bacterial density rather than the R-fraction. Our study raises the potential use of Cla-containing eradication therapies in certain Cla-heteroresistant Hp infections, taking into account the possible predictive role of bacterial density.
Correction: Lu et al. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis Identifies Key Modules and Hub Genes Associated with Mycobacterial Infection of Human Macrophages. Antibiotics 2021, 10, 97
Authors: Lu Lu , Wei Ran-Lei , Bhakta Sanjib , Waddell Simon J. , Boix Ester
Published: June 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Making Potent CAR T Cells Using Genetic Engineering and Synergistic Agents
Authors: Park Chi Hoon
Published: June 2021

Immunotherapies are emerging as powerful weapons for the treatment of malignancies. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cells have shown dramatic clinical results in patients with hematological malignancies. However, it is still challenging for CAR T cell therapy to be successful in several types of blood cancer and most solid tumors. Many attempts have been made to enhance the efficacy of CAR T cell therapy by modifying the CAR construct using combination agents, such as compounds, antibodies, or radiation. At present, technology to improve CAR T cell therapy is rapidly developing. In this review, we particularly emphasize the most recent studies utilizing genetic engineering and synergistic agents to improve CAR T cell therapy.
Radial Club Hand Treated by Paley Ulnarization Generation 3: Is This the New Centralization?
Authors: Deszczynski Jaroslaw M. , Albrewczynski Tomasz , Shannon Claire , Paley Dror
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Patients treated with the two previous generations of ulnarization developed a bump related to the ulnar head becoming prominent on the radial side of the hand. To finally remedy this problem, a third generation of ulnarization was developed to keep the ulnar head contained. While still ulnar to the wrist center, the center of the wrist remains ulnar to the ulnar head, with the ulnar head articulating directly with the trapezoid and when present the trapezium. (2) Methods: Between 2019 and 2021, 22 radial club hands in 17 patients were surgically corrected with this modified version of ulnarization. (3) Results: In all 17 patients, the mean HFA (hand–forearm-angle) correction was 68.5° (range 12.2°–88.7°). The mean ulna growth was 1.3 cm per year (range 0.2–2 cm). There were no recurrent radial deviation deformities more than 15° of the HFA. (4) Conclusions: This new version of ulnarization may solve the problem of the ulna growing past the carpus creating a prominent ulnar bump. The results presented are preliminary but promising. Longer-term follow-up is needed to fully evaluate this procedure.
DG-GMsFEM for Problems in Perforated Domains with Non-Homogeneous Boundary Conditions
Authors: Alekseev Valentin , Vasilyeva Maria , Kalachikova Uygulaana , Chung Eric T.
Published: June 2021

Problems in perforated media are complex and require high resolution grid construction to capture complex irregular perforation boundaries leading to the large discrete system of equations. In this paper, we develop a multiscale model reduction technique based on the Discontinuous Galerkin Generalized Multiscale Finite Element Method (DG-GMsFEM) for problems in perforated domains with non-homogeneous boundary conditions on perforations. This method implies division of the perforated domain into several non-overlapping subdomains constructing local multiscale basis functions for each. We use two types of multiscale basis functions, which are constructed by imposing suitable non-homogeneous boundary conditions on subdomain boundary and perforation boundary. The construction of these basis functions contains two steps: (1) snapshot space construction and (2) solution of local spectral problems for dimension reduction in the snapshot space. The presented method is used to solve different model problems: elliptic, parabolic, elastic, and thermoelastic equations with non-homogeneous boundary conditions on perforations. The concepts for coarse grid construction and definition of the local domains are presented and investigated numerically. Numerical results for two test cases with homogeneous and non-homogeneous boundary conditions are included, as well. For the case with homogeneous boundary conditions on perforations, results are shown using only local basis functions with non-homogeneous boundary condition on subdomain boundary and homogeneous boundary condition on perforation boundary. Both types of basis functions are needed in order to obtain accurate solutions, and they are shown for problems with non-homogeneous boundary conditions on perforations. The numerical results show that the proposed method provides good results with a significant reduction of the system size.
Multi-Layered Documentation of Heritage Villages: The Case of Tinbak, Qatar
Authors: Ferwati M. Salim , Al-Hammadi Mariam , Marthya Khalida Lifam , El-Menshawy Sherine , Althbah Haya Aidh
Published: June 2021

Heritage settlements have long histories that consist of multiple layers of urban layouts, building forms, and culture. Looking at the first layer that formed the initiation stage of the growth becomes a difficult task because of the disguise of other successive layers. This article studies the abandoned village of Tinbak in Qatar that exemplifies a settlement at its initial stage of development. The method of examining a societal normative image of culturally suitable domiciliary development adds to the understanding of a heritage settlement layout. However, the village lacks literature sources and urban and architectural documentation. So, this article presents the first documentation of the tangible characteristics of both urban morphology and architectural typology. Site visits, oral documentation, photographic records and a 3D Faro scanner with a 130 m range were utilized to record and document the physical environment.
Machine Learning for Communications
Authors: Aggarwal Vaneet
Published: June 2021

Due to the proliferation of applications and services that run over communication networks, ranging from video streaming and data analytics to robotics and augmented reality, tomorrow’s networks will be faced with increasing challenges resulting from the explosive growth of data traffic demand with significantly varying performance requirements [...]
Improved Immune Algorithm Combined with Steepest Descent Method for Optimal Design of IPMSM for FCEV Traction Motor
Authors: Son Ji-Chang , Baek Myung-Ki , Park Sang-Hun , Lim Dong-Kuk
Published: June 2021

In this paper, an improved immune algorithm (IIA) was proposed for the torque ripple reduction optimal design of an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) for a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) traction motor. When designing electric machines, both global and local solutions of optimal designs are required as design result should be compared in various aspects, including torque, torque ripple, and cogging torque. To lessen the computational burden of optimization using finite element analysis, the IIA proposes a method to efficiently adjust the generation of additional samples. The superior performance of the IIA was verified through the comparison of optimization results with conventional optimization methods in three mathematical test functions. The optimal design of an IPMSM using the IIA was conducted to verify the applicability in the design of practical electric machines.
Anticipation Next: System-Sensitive Technology Development and Integration in Work Contexts
Authors: Janböcke Sarah , Zajitschek Susanne
Published: June 2021

When discussing future concerns within socio-technical systems in work contexts, we often find descriptions of missed technology development and integration. The experience of technology that fails whilst being integrated is often rooted in dysfunctional epistemological approaches within the research and development process. Thus, ultimately leading to sustainable technology-distrust in work contexts. This is true for organizations that integrate new technologies and for organizations that invent them. Organizations in which we find failed technology development and integrations are, in their very nature, social systems. Nowadays, those complex social systems act within an even more complex environment. This urges the development of new anticipation methods for technology development and integration. Gathering of and dealing with complex information in the described context is what we call Anticipation Next. This explorative work uses existing literature from the adjoining research fields of system theory, organizational theory, and socio-technical research to combine various concepts. We deliberately aim at a networked way of thinking in scientific contexts and thus combine multidisciplinary subject areas in one paper to present an innovative way to deal with multi-faceted problems in a human-centred way. We end with suggesting a conceptual framework that should be used in the very early stages of technology development and integration in work contexts.
Pathology of the Aorta and Aorta as Homograft
Authors: Thiene Gaetano , Basso Cristina , Della Barbera Mila
Published: June 2021

The aorta is not a rigid tube, it is an “organ” with lamellar units, consisting of elastic fibers, extracellular matrix and smooth muscle cells in between as parenchyma. Several diseases may occur in the natural history of the aorta, requiring replacement of both semilunar cusps and ascending aorta. They may be congenital defects, such as bicuspid aortic valve and isthmal coarctation with aortopathy; genetically determined, such as Marfan and William syndromes; degenerative diseases, such as atherosclerosis and medial necrosis with aortic dilatation, valve incompetence and dissecting aneurysm; inflammatory diseases such as Takayasu arteritis, syphilis, giant cell and IgM4 aortitis; neoplasms; and trauma. Aortic homografts from cadavers, including both the sinus portion with semilunar cusps and the tubular portion, are surgically employed to replace a native sick ascending aorta. However, the antigenicity of allograft cells, in the lamellar units and interstitial cells in the cusps, is maintained. Thus, an immune reaction may occur, limiting durability. After proper decellularization and 6 months’ implantation in sheep, endogenous cell repopulation was shown to occur in both the valve and aortic wall, including the endothelium, without evidence of inflammation and structural deterioration/calcification in the mid-term. The allograft was transformed into an autograft.
Finite Element Analysis for Nonlinear Unbonded Circular Fiber-Reinforced Elastomeric Bearings
Authors: Castillo Ruano Pablo , Strauss Alfred
Published: June 2021

In recent years, interest in low-cost seismic isolation systems has increased. The replacement of the steel reinforcement in conventional elastomeric bearings for a carbon fiber reinforcement is a possible solution and has garnered increasing attention. To investigate the response of fiber-reinforced elastomeric bearings (FREBs) under seismic loads, it is fundamental to understand its mechanical behavior under combined vertical and horizontal loads. An experimental investigation of the components presents complexities due to the high loads and displacements tested. The use of a finite element analysis can save time and resources by avoiding partially expensive experimental campaigns and by extending the number of geometries and topologies to be analyzed. In this work, a numerical model for carbon fiber-reinforced bearings is implemented, calibrated, and validated and a set of virtual experiments is designed to investigate the behavior of the bearings under combined compressive and lateral loading. Special focus is paid to detailed modeling of the constituent materials. The elastomeric matrix is modeled using a phenomenological rheological model based on the hyperelastic formulation developed by Yeoh and nonlinear viscoelasticity. The model aims to account for the hysteretic nonlinear hyper-viscoelastic behavior using a rheological formulation that takes into consideration hyperelasticity and nonlinear viscoelasticity and is calibrated using a series of experiments, including uniaxial tension tests, planar tests, and relaxation tests. Special interest is paid to capturing the energy dissipated in the unbonded fiber-reinforced elastomeric bearing in an accurate manner. The agreement between the numerical results and the experimental data is assessed, and the influence of parameters such as shape factor, aspect ratio, vertical pressure, and fiber reinforcement orientation on stress distribution in the bearings as well as in the mechanical properties is discussed.
How the Covid-19 Pandemic Influenced the Approach to Risk Management in Cycling Events
Authors: Bazzanella Filippo , Muratore Nunzio , Schlemmer Philipp Alexander , Happ Elisabeth
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us to live in social isolation and has brought an important element of social life, the events industry, to a complete standstill. In resurrecting the events industry, the most urgent focus is on managing the risk of any crowd-control measures with a view to reducing to zero the danger of the virus spreading. This research focuses on the main issue of the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the organization of sports events (SEs), and in particular, cycling competitions. This study, therefore, aims to provide deeper insights into (a) the measures introduced to face the health emergency situation in cycling events, (b) the comparison of these measures with previous experiences in similar SE contexts, and (c) the possible evolution of organizational models for cycling events in the post-pandemic era. Fifteen semi-structured interviews with cycling athletes, managers, and officials constitute the methodological basis for this study. The results show that countermeasures have been taken that are effective in dealing with pandemic characteristics and are likely to be applied in the future, while others will be phased out or used again only when necessary. This study enhances scientific knowledge by analyzing a renewed approach to risk management for SEs, with a specific focus on pandemics and medical risks. Finally, the study shows that cycling events need to adapt the specifics of such a new approach to the standards projected on future scenarios for which the COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way.
Can SARS-CoV-2 Induce Uterine Vascular Anomalies and Poor Contractile Response?—A Case Report
Authors: Lesnic Anca , Haj Hamoud Bashar , Poenaru Mircea-Octavian , Moldovan Valentin-Tiberiu , Chicea Radu , Sima Romina-Marina , Popescu Mihai , Ples Liana
Published: June 2021

We are reporting a case of a 36 year-old Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive hypertensive primigravida with postpartum uterine atony that required emergency subtotal hysterectomy at Saint John Hospital Bucur Maternity Bucharest. The maternity was designated as the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Maternity for Bucharest and Ilfov County since March 2020. The patient was mildly symptomatic for SARS-CoV-2, infection confirmed with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The caesarean section was performed and a live male fetus was born, 2630 g and Apgar Score of 9 (the male fetus was negative for SARS-CoV-2). Postpartum hysterectomy with adnexal preservation was performed because of uterine atony. The postoperative evolution was favorable. The patient was discharged with her baby 10 days after birth. Given the limited resources, the placenta, the umbilical cord and the uterus were not tested for SARS-CoV-2. The pathology exam revealed that on the maternal side there were specific uterine atony lesions as well as endometrial and miometrial ischaemia. The placenta had nonspecific findings: chronic ischemic lesions with small villi, fibrin deposits in the materno-fetal interface. The peculiarity of the case is that we report the morphological findings of the placenta and uterus resulted from intrapartum uterine atonia in a patient with gestational arterial hypertension, premature birth and COVID-19. Further studies are required to characterize the pattern of such intricate conditions.
Peripheral Artery Disease and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The Forgotten Diseases in COVID-19 Pandemic. Results from an Observational Study on Real-World Management
Authors: Natale Francesco , Capasso Raffaele , Casalino Alfonso , Crescenzi Clotilde , Sangiuolo Paolo , Golino Paolo , Loffredo Francesco S. , Cimmino Giovanni
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives: It is well established that patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) as well abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) have an increased cardiovascular (CV) mortality. Despite this higher risk, PAD and AAA patients are often suboptimality treated. This study assessed the CV profile of PAD and AAA patients, quantifying the survival benefits of target-based risk-factors modification even in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: PAD and AAA patients admitted for any reason to the Vascular Unit from January 2019 to February 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Biochemical and CV profiles as well as ongoing medical therapies were recorded. Benefits of CV risk-factors control were estimated using the SMART-REACH model. A follow-up visit during the year 2020 was scheduled. Results: A total of 669 patients were included. Of these, 190 showed AAA and 479 PAD at any stage. Only 54% of PAD and 41% of AAA patients were on lipid-lowering drugs with non-optimal low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels for most of them. A better control of all modifiable CV risk-factors based on the current guidelines would offer an absolute risk reduction of the mean 10-year CV risk by 9% in PAD and 14% in AAA. Unfortunately, the follow-up visit was lost because of COVID-19 limitations. Conclusions: Lipid profiles of PAD and AAA patients were far from guideline-based targets, and medical management was suboptimal. In our center, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted on the strict surveillance required in these very high-risk patients. The achievement of guideline-based therapeutic targets would definitively confer additional significant benefits in reducing the CV risk in these patients.
Sasso Pisano Geothermal Field Environment Harbours Diverse Ktedonobacteria Representatives and Illustrates Habitat-Specific Adaptations
Authors: Arif Sania , Willenberg Corinna , Dreyer Annika , Nacke Heiko , Hoppert Michael
Published: June 2021

The hydrothermal steam environment of Sasso Pisano (Italy) was selected to investigate the associated microbial community and its metabolic potential. In this context, 16S and 18S rRNA gene partial sequences of thermophilic prokaryotes and eukaryotes inhabiting hot springs and fumaroles as well as mesophilic microbes colonising soil and water were analysed by high-throughput amplicon sequencing. The eukaryotic and prokaryotic communities from hot environments clearly differ from reference microbial communities of colder soil sites, though Ktedonobacteria showed high abundances in various hot spring samples and a few soil samples. This indicates that the hydrothermal steam environments of Sasso Pisano represent not only a vast reservoir of thermophilic but also mesophilic members of this Chloroflexi class. Metabolic functional profiling revealed that the hot spring microbiome exhibits a higher capability to utilise methane and aromatic compounds and is more diverse in its sulphur and nitrogen metabolism than the mesophilic soil microbial consortium. In addition, heavy metal resistance-conferring genes were significantly more abundant in the hot spring microbiome. The eukaryotic diversity at a fumarole indicated high abundances of primary producers (unicellular red algae: Cyanidiales), consumers (Arthropoda: Collembola sp.), and endoparasite Apicomplexa (Gregarina sp.), which helps to hypothesise a simplified food web at this hot and extremely nutrient-deprived acidic environment.
Identification of Resistance Determinants for a Promising Antileishmanial Oxaborole Series
Authors: Van den Kerkhof Magali , Leprohon Philippe , Mabille Dorien , Hendrickx Sarah , Tulloch Lindsay B. , Wall Richard J. , Wyllie Susan , Chatelain Eric , Mowbray Charles E. , Braillard Stéphanie , Ouellette Marc , Maes Louis , Caljon Guy
Published: June 2021

Current treatment options for visceral leishmaniasis have several drawbacks, and clinicians are confronted with an increasing number of treatment failures. To overcome this, the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) has invested in the development of novel antileishmanial leads, including a very promising class of oxaboroles. The mode of action/resistance of this series to Leishmania is still unknown and may be important for its further development and implementation. Repeated in vivo drug exposure and an in vitro selection procedure on both extracellular promastigote and intracellular amastigote stages were both unable to select for resistance. The use of specific inhibitors for ABC-transporters could not demonstrate the putative involvement of efflux pumps. Selection experiments and inhibitor studies, therefore, suggest that resistance to oxaboroles may not emerge readily in the field. The selection of a genome-wide cosmid library coupled to next-generation sequencing (Cos-seq) was used to identify resistance determinants and putative targets. This resulted in the identification of a highly enriched cosmid, harboring genes of chromosome 2 that confer a subtly increased resistance to the oxaboroles tested. Moderately enriched cosmids encompassing a region of chromosome 34 contained the cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor (cpsf) gene, encoding the molecular target of several related benzoxaboroles in other organisms.
Optical Properties of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Load and Release on Silica Nanoparticle Platform
Authors: Nguyen Trong Nghia , Nguyen Thi Thuy , Nghiem Thi Ha Lien , Nguyen Duc Toan , Tran Thi Thu Ha , Vu Duong , Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc , Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen , Nguyen Van Tien , Nguyen Minh Hue
Published: June 2021

Silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) synthesized by the Stober method were used as drug delivery vehicles. Doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX·HCl) is a chemo-drug absorbed onto the SiO2 NPs surfaces. The DOX·HCl loading onto and release from the SiO2 NPs was monitored via UV-VIS and fluorescence spectra. Alternatively, the zeta potential was also used to monitor and evaluate the DOX·HCl loading process. The results showed that nearly 98% of DOX·HCl was effectively loaded onto the SiO2 NPs’ surfaces by electrostatic interaction. The pH-dependence of the process wherein DOX·HCl release out of DOX·HCl-SiO2 NPs was investigated as well. For comparison, both the free DOX·HCl molecules and DOX·HCl-SiO2 NPs were used as the labels for cultured cancer cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy images showed that the DOX·HCl-SiO2 NPs were better delivered to cancer cells which are more acidic than healthy cells. We propose that engineered DOX·HCl-SiO2 systems are good candidates for drug delivery and clinical applications.
The Effect of Vicinal Difluorination on the Conformation and Potency of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors
Authors: Ariawan A. Daryl , Mansour Flora , Richardson Nicole , Bhadbhade Mohan , Ho Junming , Hunter Luke
Published: June 2021

Histone deacetylase enzymes (HDACs) are potential targets for the treatment of cancer and other diseases, but it is challenging to design isoform-selective agents. In this work, we created new analogs of two established but non-selective HDAC inhibitors. We decorated the central linker chains of the molecules with specifically positioned fluorine atoms in order to control the molecular conformations. The fluorinated analogs were screened against a panel of 11 HDAC isoforms, and minor differences in isoform selectivity patterns were observed.
Interferometric Instrument for Thickness Measurement on Blown Films
Authors: Norgia Michele , Pesatori Alessandro
Published: June 2021

Real-time measurement of plastic film thickness during production is extremely important to guarantee planarity of the final film. Standard techniques are based on capacitive measurements, in close contact with the film. These techniques require continuous calibration and temperature compensation, while their contact can damage the film. Different optical contactless techniques are described in literature, but none has found application to real production, due to the strong vibration of the films. We propose a new structure of low-coherence fiber interferometer able to measure blown film thickness during productions. The novel fiber-optic setup is a cross between an autocorrelator and a white light interferometer, taking the advantages of both approaches.
Hazards to Aircraft Crews, Passengers, and Equipment from Thunderstorm-Generated X-rays and Gamma-Rays
Authors: Stephan Karl D. , Shmatov Mikhail L.
Published: June 2021

Both observational and theoretical research in the area of atmospheric high-energy physics since about 1980 has revealed that thunderstorms produce X-rays and gamma-rays into the MeV region by a number of mechanisms. While the nature of these mechanisms is still an area of active research, enough observational and theoretical data exists to permit an evaluation of hazards presented by ionizing radiation from thunderstorms to aircraft crew, passengers, and equipment. In this paper, we use data from existing studies to evaluate these hazards in a quantitative way. We find that hazards to humans are generally low, although with the possibility of an isolated rare incident giving rise to enough radiation dose to produce noticeable symptoms. On the other hand, unshielded computer memory chips in avionics systems stand a small but non-zero chance of severe damage from thunderstorm-generated radiation and would not leave easily detectable traces of the occurrence. Should a rare phenomenon called ball lightning occur near or within an aircraft, the possibility exists of substantial damage to both equipment and personnel. Overall, radiation hazards from thunderstorms appear to be low, but should be considered and investigated with radiation monitoring equipment on sample flights.
Restoring the Balance between People, Places, and Profits: A Psychosocial Analysis of Uneven Community Development and the Case for Placemaking Processes
Authors: Toolis Erin E.
Published: June 2021

Recent years have seen a paradigm shift from individualistic, market-based models of community development to more sustainable and human-centered approaches that emphasize inclusion and participation. Yet processes of privatization in the era of neoliberalism threaten these efforts by concentrating profits for elites while impoverishing everyday people and the environments they inhabit, resulting in profoundly uneven access to resources, inclusion, and participation. This analysis examines the psychosocial processes that produce and are produced by these unequal and segregated settings, as well as the causes and correlates of this imbalance in the context of the United States. Then, empirical literature is reviewed exploring the harmful consequences that inequality entails for individual and societal wellbeing, arguing that inequality (a) undermines opportunity by limiting access to resources and constraining upward mobility, (b) undermines community by dissolving trust and cohesion, (c) undermines ecosystems health by accelerating environmental degradation, and (d) undermines democracy by reducing the political power of the non-wealthy relative to the wealthy. Finally, four placemaking principles are proposed as a way to promote more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive community development.
Mesodiencephalic modulation in complex therapy of diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Kuzminov G. G. , Marchenkova L. A. , Frolkov V. K.
Published: June 2021

The effect of mesodiencephalic modulation on the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, insulin and cortisol secretion, the severity of neurological disorders and pain syndrome has been studied in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. It has been established that the addition of a standard therapeutic complex with MDM-therapy reduces the neurological symptoms of the disease and the severity of the pain syndrome by half, as well as significantly improves the insulin regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. It has been proven that MDM-therapy reduces the body’s insulin resistance, which makes it possible to recommend this physical factor for the treatment of diseases associated with metabolic syndrome. The hypothesis of the systemic nature of MDM-therapy and its effect on the formation of adaptive responses is considered.
Search for algorithms for treatment of non-specific septic spondylodiscitis
Authors: Obolensky V. N. , Sytnik A. V.
Published: June 2021

The treatment results of 30 patients with non-specific purulent diseases of the spine were analyzed using various methods — primary or secondary stabilization of the spinal column, local negative pressure method, prolonged local antibiotic therapy method and various implants. The results were rated as «excellent» in 16 patients, «good» in 7 people, «satisfactory» in 4 cases (relapses) and 3 patients died. The results obtained indicate the need for a personalized approach to treatment tactics, the feasibility of staged treatment and the use of additional methods.
The use of autologous mesenchymal stem cells to improve the functional state of the liver after its resection (clinical observation)
Authors: Kotkas I. E. , Zemlyanoi V. P.
Published: June 2021

The article provides a clinical observation with an assessment of biochemical indicators and changes in liver volume in the patient after liver resection. A peculiarity of this clinical observation is that intraoperative (during liver resection) administration of autologous mesenchymal stem cells was performed on this patient. In the postoperative period, the patient was not given protein and hepatotropic preparations. As a result of the use of cellular technologies, on the 15th day after the operation, the patient recovered protein function of the liver; 10 days after the operation, the level of prothrombin time and transaminases normalized; on day 5 after the operation, alkaline phosphatase and GGTP were normalized. Previously, we proved that autologous mesenchymal stem cells introduced through the portal vein of the liver are fixed directly in the liver tissue. These results were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The introduced cell structures were visualized by pre-labeling them with iron oxide nanoparticles. The search for new ways to restore liver function after resections is a significant task in liver surgery, which in the future will help to improve the postoperative results of treatment of patients and reduce the bed-day.
Efficiency and safety of sclerotherapy for recurrent nodular goiter
Authors: Rodoman G. V. , Sumedi I. R. , Sviridenko N. V. , Shalaeva T. I. , Meloyan M. M.
Published: June 2021

At present, patients with recurrent nodular goiter account for a significant portion of patients operated on for nodular goiter. At the same time, the comorbid background characteristic of this age group and the technical difficulties of the intervention on cicatricial tissues of the neck cause a high risk of complications of the operation, 3–7 times higher than with primary thyroid interventions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of treatment of recurrent nodular goiter using an alternative minimally invasive method — sclerotherapy. The study included 30 patients previously operated on for nodular goiter. All had 4 courses of sclerotherapy, each included 5 sessions with a frequency of 1 session per week, followed by a follow-up period of 3 months. Polydocanol was used as a sclerosant. The analysis showed that sclerotherapy for recurrent nodular goiter allows all patients to reduce recurrent nodular formations, and in almost a third of cases, complete reduction of the nodes. On average, the decrease in the volume of thyroid residues was 9.6 ± 1.5 ml, and the size of nodular formations decreased by 17.2 ± 1.3 mm (3.7 times — from 23.6 ± 1.4 mm to 6.4 ± 0.7 mm, P <0.001). Nodes more than 3 cm, initially 19 %, ceased to be detected after the third course of sclerotherapy. In all cases, managed to eliminate hormonal imbalances in patients who initially had functional autonomy, as well as signs of compression of the neck organs. At the same time, sclerotherapy of nodules of the thyroid gland using polydocanol as a sclerosant is a safe minimally invasive treatment method, is not accompanied by severe pain and the risk of hypoparathyroidism and laryngeal paresis.
Features of the assessment of tangible assets extracted from retired items of fixed assets
Authors: Sotnikova L.V.
Published: June 2021

The article considers the features of the assessment of material and production stocks extracted from retired items of fixed assets, which, in accordance with FSB 5/2019, which entered into force on January 1, 2021, and PBU 16/02, updated in 2019, are evaluated in different ways, depending on the purpose — to use them in the reporting organization or to sell them to the side. The article presents examples of the assessment and accounting of the material values extracted from the objects of fixed assets, depending on the ratio and value of the residual value of the disposed objects of fixed assets, the cost of dismantling the object of fixed assets, the cost of preparing the extracted material values for sale and evaluating them at the net sale value.