bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biophysical Considerations in the Rational Design and Cellular Targeting of Flexible Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Farokhirad Samaneh , Kandy Sreeja Kutti , Tsourkas Andrew , Ayyaswamy Portonovo , Eckmann David , Radhakrishnan Ravi
Published: April 2021

It is becoming evident that engineered physicochemical characteristics of nanoparticles (NPs) are essential to improve their biological function for their cellular delivery and uptake. How NP mechanical properties impact multivalent ligand-receptor mediated binding to cell surfaces, the avidity of NP adhesion to cells, and cooperative effects due to crowding remain largely unknown or unquantified, and how tuning NPs' stiffness impacts their propensity for internalization is not clear. Here we focus on exploring the binding mechanisms of three distinct NPs that differ in type and rigidity (core-corona flexible NP, rigid NP, and rigid-tethered NP) but are otherwise similar in size and ligand surface density; moreover, for the case of flexible NP, we tune NP stiffness by varying the internal crosslinking density. We employed our recent spatial biophysical modeling of NP binding to membranes together with thermodynamic analysis powered by free energy calculations and show that efficient cellular targeting and uptake of NP functionalized with targeting ligand molecules can be shaped by factors including NP flexibility and crowding, receptor-ligand binding avidity, state of the membrane cytoskeleton, and curvature inducing proteins. Owing to this multitude of factors, we demonstrate that the binding avidity of a flexible NP depends on engineered changes in NP flexibility in a non-intuitive fashion because of significant enthalpy entropy compensations arising from multiple competing terms associated with NP, receptor density, and membrane. Analyses of the individual enthalpic and entropic contributions associated with NP, membrane, and receptor-ligand binding and receptor diffusion collectively illuminate this complex dependence of avidity on crosslinking. We find that the NP binding avidity can be engineered in a crowded environment by tuning their flexibility. We also find that when the cell membrane is bound to the cytoskeletal proteins via the pinning sites, the pinning sites' presence does not limit the binding avidity of both flexible and rigid-tethered NPs. Furthermore, we show that the membrane tension and pinning density, and the stiffness of flexible NPs can be tuned to alter the adhesion energy landscape and eventually improve the adhesion efficiency of flexible NPs. We also probed the effects of curvature-inducing proteins and receptor-ligand binding interactions on NP uptake. We found that complete uptake of both rigid-tethered NPs, and flexible NPs can be achieved by tuning NP stiffness and membrane tension even under moderate levels of ligand-densities in use for physiologically relevant applications. These findings provide strong evidence that NP flexibility is an important design parameter for rationally engineering NP targeting and uptake in a crowded cellular adhesion microenvironment.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Sierra Leone (#CCG)
Authors: Allington Lucy , Cannone Carla , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Charbonnier Flora , Halloran Claire , Hirmer Stephanie , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger
Published: April 2021

Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to starting energy system modelling in developing countries, thereby causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Sierra Leone, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and two stylized scenarios (Fossil Future and Least Cost) for 2020–2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.
Life-threatening, delayed epistaxis after Le Fort I osteotomy: a case report
Authors: Eleuch Amir , Rejeb Maha Ben , Ayadi Anis , Ayachi Samia , Moatemri Ramzi , Khochtali Habib
Published: May 2021

Introduction: When performing a Le Fort 1 osteotomy, there is always a risk of injuring the internal maxillary artery or one of its branches. This diagnosis should be considered when confronted to recurrent or massive epistaxis following surgery.Case presentation: The authors present a case of a life-threatening, delayed and massive epistaxis caused by a ruptured pseudoaneuvrysm of the right sphenopalatine artery as a post-operative complication of a Le Fort I osteotomy successfully managed by anterior and posterior nasal packing.Conclusion: Despite its simplicity and attested reliability, Le Fort I osteotomy is not completely free of complications.
Why the energy transition is not enough
Authors: Leiva Benjamin , Schramski John
Published: May 2021

Efforts to accommodate the growth in global energy consumption within a fragile biosphere are primarily focused on managing the transition towards a low-carbon energy mix. We show evidence that a more fundamental problem exists through a scaling relation, akin to Kleiber’s Law, between society’s energy consumption and material stocks. Humanity’s energy consumption scales at 0.78 of its material stocks, which implies predictable environmental pressure regardless of the energy mix. If true, future global energy scenarios imply vast amounts of materials and corresponding environmental degradation, which have not been adequately acknowledged. Thus, limits to energy consumption are needed regardless of the energy mix to stabilize human intervention in the biosphere.
Replacement renal therapy in the treatment of patients with a severe course of the new coronavirus infection
Authors: Аvdeykin S. N. , Kostin D. M. , Srednyakov A. V. , Kazakov D. N. , Matyushkov N. I. , Tyurin I. N. , Protsenko D. N.
Published: May 2021

Objective: to study the use of RRT methods and their influence on the results of treatment of patients with severe COVID-19.

Subjects and methods. We retrospectively analyzed the data of 283 patients with COVID-19 in the intensive care units of Moscow City Hospital no. 40 in 2020 who had received RRT as one of the treatment methods.

Results. Frequency of RRT in COVID-19 patients in ICU of Moscow City Hospital no. 40 for 2020 made 5.7% (504 out of 8.711 patients treated in ICU received RRT). In 86% of cases, RRT was performed for renal indications. At the time of initiation of RRT, the studied groups did not differ according to SOFA score. The frequency of using dialysis units with high and low cut-off point in the groups of survived and deceased patients differed significantly. The surgery itself started at relatively the same time from the onset and statistically significantly earlier in the group of survivors from the beginning of tracheal intubation (4.9 ± 0.5 vs 6.8 ± 0.3 days, p = 0.0013). Against the background of ongoing therapy, overall severity of the state progressed in the group of deceased patients to 9.9 ± 0.2 SOFA scores, while in the group of survivors there was an improvement to 6.1 ± 0.4 scores.
Changes in the levels of some cytokines when using blood purification in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Polushin Yu. S. , Аkmalova R. V. , Sokolov D. V. , Bovkun I. V. , Gavrilova E. G. , Shlyk I. V. , Parshin E. V. , Lapin S V. , Tkachenko O. Yu.
Published: May 2021

The use of high-adsorption membrane hemofiltration in COVID-19 positive patients to reduce the severity of a cytokine storm is clearly beneficial but at the same time, there are no certain procedures for its practical use.

The objective:to study the change in the levels of IL-6 and IL-18 in response to prolonged (24-72 hours) high-adsorption membrane hemofiltration.

Subjects and methods. We retrospectively analyzed the data on IL-6 and IL-18 levels and their changes in 69 patients who were COVID-19 positive and had different degrees of lung damage, they had received high-adsorption membrane hemofiltration during their stay at the intensive care unit. The extent of lung lesions was the following: 4 people had CT-2, 44 people had CT-3, and 21 patients had CT-4. 18 patients had an unfavorable outcome of the disease. High-adsorption membrane hemofiltration (Prismaflex) was used in the group of patients who had clinical signs of the rapid progression of the disease and also such laboratory findings as elevated values of C-reactive protein (above 100 mg/L), ferritin (more than 600 μg/L), and progression of lymphopenia. This intervention lasted for 24 hours at CT-2/3, and 48 hours at CT-4. The effluent dose was 30.0 ± 6.4 ml/kg/h. The levels of IL-6, IL-18, and procalcitonin were tested before and after the completion of the intervention, and the difference between their concentration before and after high-adsorption membrane hemofiltration was calculated. The potential association between received data (IL-6, IL-18, delta of IL-6, delta of IL-18) and degree of lung damage and outcomes was analyzed.

Results.It was detected that the more the lungs were affected, the lower levels of IL-6 and IL-18 were and vice versa and this correlation was not associated with the use of tocilizumab (used in 44 people). The maximum decrease in the level of cytokines was observed in the group of patients with CT-2. There was a significant association between the delta of IL-6 (F = 6.69; p ≤ 0.05) and the outcome which was especially pronounced in people with a favorable outcome.

Conclusion.As the inflammation progresses in the lungs, the levels of IL-6 and IL-18 decrease which may be a manifestation of the depletion of the cytokine storm. The use of prolonged high-adsorption membrane hemofiltration (24-48 h) allows reducing the level of cytokines. The delta value reflects a decrease in IL-6 concentration, it significantly correlates with the outcome which indicates the importance of using this method in a continuous mode.
Modeling alloantibody formation to high-incidence red blood cell antigens in immune responders using genotypic data
Authors: Brunker P.A.R. , Ravindran K. , Shirey R.S.
Published: April 2021

Alloimmunization to red blood cell antigens is unpredictable and poorly understood. Patients who are negative for high-incidence antigens (HIAs) are at risk for developing the corresponding antibodies. Molecular methods can easily predict the lack of an antigen and thus, the risk of an individual to become immunized. We examined the prevalence and risk factors for HIA alloimmunization in patients at risk based on genotyping results. Genotyping using a molecular method (HEA BeadChip™, Immucor, Warren, NJ) was performed on all patient specimens referred for molecular testing over 45 months; serologic and clinical data were analyzed. We used simple and multiple logistic regression to model the risk factors for alloimmunization to an HIA. Of the 2591 patients genotyped, 32 (1.2%) were homozygous for at least one variant predicting absence of an HIA. Of these 32 patients, prior transfusion or pregnancy history was available for 29 (91%). Four susceptible patients made an antibody to an HIA (12.5% of all, 13.8% of those with a documented exposure). Two of these four patients (50%) had made an alloantibody to another antigen. The odds of forming an antibody to an HIA were not related to the total number of transfusions (p = 0.47), the total number of alloantibodies (p = 0.61), or diagnosis of sickle cell disease (p = 0.77) in simple logistic regression. Adjustment for the other two variables in a multiple logistic regression was also not significant for each variable (p = 0.6, p = 0.7, and p = 0.7, respectively). Although they had a known exposure to alloantigens through transfusion or pregnancy, 86.2 percent of patients (25 of 29) at risk for alloantibody formation to an HIA in fact did not mount an immune response to that antigen. Possible risk factors including the number of transfused units or the total number of alloantibodies made were not predictors of making an alloantibody to an HIA in our sampling. Our results suggest that other patient-specific risk factors for alloimmunization exist.
Immunohematology

2017;33:9–14.
Postpartum acute hemolytic transfusion reactions associated with anti-Lea in two pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia
Authors: Marchese M.
Published: April 2021

Lewis blood group antibodies, which are mostly naturally occurring and considered clinically insignificant, have rarely been documented as a cause of acute hemolytic transfusion reactions (AHTRs). This report presents two cases of AHTRs caused by anti-Lea occurring in postpartum black females (one group B, one group AB) whose pregnancies were complicated by preeclampsia. Neither anti-Lea was detected by automated solid-phase red cell adherence technology in pre-transfusion testing. Therefore, red blood cell units, compatible by electronic crossmatch, were issued and transfused. The subsequent transfusion reactions were characterized by acute intravascular hemolysis, evidenced by both clinical and laboratory criteria. These two cases demonstrate that, even when least anticipated, hemolytic transfusion reactions may occur. As expected, neither live-born neonate was affected by hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Because both transfusion reactions occurred in non–group O, postpartum black females with pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, possible links between in vivo hemolytic anti-Lea, non–group O pregnant black females, and preeclampsia may require additional investigation.
Immunohematology

2017;33:114–118.
A Caucasian JK*A/JK*B woman with Jk(a+b–) red blood cells, anti-Jkb, and a novel JK*B allele c.1038delG
Authors: Ramsey G. , Sumugod R.D. , Lindholm P.F. , Zinni J.G. , Keller J.A. , Horn T. , Keller M.A.
Published: April 2021

The Kidd blood group on the red blood cell (RBC) glycoprotein urea transporter-B has a growing number of weak and null alleles in its gene SLC14A1 that are emerging from more widespread genotyping of blood donors and patients. We investigated a 64-year-old Caucasian woman of Polish-Czech descent who developed anti-Jkb detected in solid-phase RBC adherence testing within 12 days after 7 units of RBCs were transfused. Her RBCs subsequently typed Jk(a+b–) by licensed reagents and human antisera. Nevertheless, in RBC genotyping (BioArray HEA BeadChip, Immucor, Warren, NJ) performed in our transfusion service on all patients with alloantibodies, her Kidd typing was JK*A/JK*B based on the Jka/Jkb single nucleotide polymorphism in exon 9 (c.838G>A, p.Asp280Asn). Genomic analysis and cDNA sequencing of her JK*B allele revealed a novel single-nucleotide deletion of c.1038G in exon 11, predicting a frameshift and premature stop (p.Thr346Thrfs*5) after translation of nearly 90 percent of the expressed exons 4–11. This allele has been provisionally named JK*02N.14, subject to approval by the International Society of Blood Transfusion Working Party. The site of this variant is closer to the C-terminus than that of any allele associated with the Jk(a–b–) phenotype reported to date. Routine genotyping of patients with RBC alloantibodies can reveal variants posing potential risk of alloimmunization. Continuing investigation of Kidd variants may shed light on the structure of Kidd antigens and the function of urea transporter-B.
Immunohematology

2016;32:91–95.
How to recognize and resolve reagent-dependent reactivity: a review
Authors: Patch G.C. , Hutchinson C.F. , Lang N.A. , Khalife G.
Published: April 2021

Reagent-dependent reactivity can be described as agglutination of red blood cells (RBCs) in serologic testing that is not related to the interaction of RBC antigens and antibodies that the test system is intended to detect. In other words, reagent-dependent reactivity results in false-positive agglutination reactions in serologic testing. These false-positive reactions can cause confusion in antigen typing and RBC antibody detection and identification procedures, and may result in delays in patient transfusion. It is imperative that reagent-dependent reactivity is recognized and resolved during the investigation of ABO discrepancies, positive RBC antibody screens and antibody identification panels, and crossmatch reactivity.
Immunohematology

2016;32:96–99.
Inhibition of blood group antibodies by soluble substances
Authors: Byrne K.M. , Mercado C.M.C. , Nnabue T.N. , Paige T.D. , Flegel W.A.
Published: May 2021

The presence of multiple alloantibodies or an antibody to a high-prevalance antigen in a patient sample can pose challenges in antibody identification. The pattern of reactivity seen on an antibody panel may show various strengths of reactivity by different methods of testing or same strength of reactivity at one or more phases of testing. To ensure proper identification, multiple investigative tools may be used. We review one of these methods—inhibition by soluble substances—which has become an expansion of our toolbox within the past 10 years. Alloantibodies can be inhibited using specific soluble substances. These soluble substances occur naturally in various fluids or can be manufactured. When a patient sample contains multiple antibodies, clinically significant or not, inhibition of one may help determine specificities of others. Specific inhibition of a particular antibody will also help to confirm its presence.
The folded spin-1/2 XXZ model: II. Thermodynamics and hydrodynamics with a minimal set of charges
Authors: Zadnik Lenart , Bidzhiev Kemal , Fagotti Maurizio
Published: May 2021

We study the (dual) folded spin-1/2 XXZ model in the thermodynamic limit.
We focus, in particular, on a class of ``local'' macrostates that includes Gibbs ensembles.
We develop a thermodynamic Bethe Ansatz description and work out generalised hydrodynamics at the leading order. Remarkably, in the ballistic scaling limit the junction of two local macrostates results in a discontinuity in the profile of essentially any local observable.
THE ROLE OF YOUTH IN DIGITALIZING FALAK SCIENCE IN ISLAMICASTRO APPLICATIONS
Authors: Ramdhani Fajri Zulia
Published: May 2021

This research starts from academic awareness when realizing Falak keyword in the Play Store. It shows fifteen Falak aplications by programmers without validated Falak competence.This is crucial, because Falak regulates not only astronomical or social relations, but also theological. One of these applications were developed by Falak youth, namely Muhammad Faishol Amin with his Islamicastro. This research discusses digitization of Falak by Islamicastro and youth Falak contributions. This research is qualitative type that based going exploring. Primary and secondary data collection is done by documentation and interviews. The research data is processed in three stages, codification, presentation, and conclusion drawing. Then data were analyzed with descriptive analysis and inductive thingking methods. The conclusion is Islamicastro helps Falak practitioners by his data accuracy in the field. From literatures, algorithm of Islamicastro uses the ephemeris method, the spherical astronomy, and the renewal of vincety method. Muhammad Faishol Amin are agents of change as UU No. 40 of 2009 whose part is anacted role, prescribed role, and role models.
Study of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) effect on surveillance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
Authors: Ibeobi Samuel , Pan Xuchao
Published: May 2021

The contemporary deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for commercial purposes and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) threat to mechatronic devices necessitates the study of EMP on surveillance UAVs. This research paper describes the effect of EMP interference on the structure, communication and cabling circuit of the UAV. This was achieved using the CST microwave studio with an induced plane wave referring to MIL-STD464 and applying the transmission line matric solver method. The cable field coupling for bi-directional, uni-directional radiation and uni-directional irradiation were carried out with a constant resistive load of 50 Ω and the induced coupling currents and voltages, current in space domain, TLM mesh is obtained indicating the susceptibility of the UAV under different conditions of EMP interference and the electromagnetic distribution in the UAV circuit layout. Experimentally, the UAV is setup with an EMP generator and its response was observed at 12 m, 10 m and 8 m from the radiation source with the corresponding field strengths.
Evaluating User Experience of a Mobile Health Application ‘Halodoc’ using User Experience Questionnaire and Usability Testing
Authors: Mochammad Aldi Kushendriawan  , Harry Budi Santoso  , Panca O. Hadi Putra  , Martin Schrepp
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to evaluate the user experience of a mobile health application called Halodoc to keep the user using the application and keep from losing a potential source of revenue for Halodoc. Halodoc is one of the companies that use the internet to provide health services for its users. Halodoc has services such as features for consultation with doctors, online medicine purchases, and hospital appointments. Halodoc’s vision is to simplifying healthcare, but there are still many complaints and negative reviews about Halodoc on Google play store and Apple store about the usability. This paper uses a mixed-method approach using User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) and Usability Testing. The results of the analysis were used as a reference for making the improvement designs. The results of the UEQ evaluation showed accordingly to the UEQ benchmark already a good level of UX. However, the usability test uncovered some concrete areas for improvement.
Omic markers identification for predicting risks of negative effects in children with elevated copper and nickel contents in blood
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Zaitseva N.V. , Zemlyanova M.A. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation,   Perm State University, 15 Bukireva Str., Perm, 614990, Russian Federation, Koldibekova Yu.V. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Bulatova N.I. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Proteomic profiling is a promising procedure for examining and substantiating molecular mechanisms of body reactions occurrence and development as a response to adverse impacts; it allows detecting and examining these reactions at early stages in their development prior to cellular damage and damage to organs. Studies aimed at increasing efficiency of adverse effects prediction are especially vital for solving tasks related to early detection and prevention of consequences associated with exposure to chemical environmental factors, first of all, ambient air. Our research goal was to identify omic-markers for predicting risks of negative effects in children with elevated copper and nickel contents in blood. We performed proteomic blood plasma examination in children and modeled cause-and-effect relations. Children with copper and nickel contents in their blood being 3.5 times higher than physiological standard had approximately 20 protein stains that were authentically different from those detected in children from the reference group. We detected correlations between an increase in relative volume of three protein stains including apolipoprotein A-I, anchor protein of A-kinase 9, vitronectin, and a decrease in relative volume of one protein strain including transthyretin and elevated copper and nickel contents in blood (R2=0.30–0.44; р=0.0001–0.008). All the above-mentioned proteins have predictive significance when it comes down to negative effects related to neuroregulation disorders and endothelial dysfunction. It was proven that there was a risk of predicted negative effects such as greater frequency of nervous and cardiovascular system diseases in case copper and nickel contents in blood were elevated (R2=0.35–0.96; р=0.0001–0.013). The established list of potential target molecules (apolipoprotein A-I, vitronectin, anchor protein of A-kinase 9, and transthyretin) and genes that coded their expression (APOA1, VTN,AKAP9,TTR) was substantiated as omic-markers indicating a possibility that negative effects might occur in the cardiovascular and nervous system.
Assessment and classification of food products as per health risks caused by chemical and microbiological contamination
Authors:   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 12a the 3rd micro-district, Angarsk, 665827, Russian Federation, Bogdanova O.G. ,   East Siberia State University of Technology and Management, Bldg. 1, 40v Klyuchevskaya Str., Ulan-Ude, 670013, Russian Federation, Molchanova O.A. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 12a the 3rd micro-district, Angarsk, 665827, Russian Federation,   Federal Service for Surveillance over Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing, Buryatiya Region office, 45b Klyuchevskaya Str., Ulan-Ude, 670013, Russian Federation, Tarmaeva I.Yu. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, 2/14 Ustinsky lane, Moscow, 109240, Russian Federation, Efimova N.V. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 12a the 3rd micro-district, Angarsk, 665827, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Our research goal was to reveal priority food products (FP) distributed on a regional consumer market as per health risks they caused for population. The research was accomplished with statistic, analytical, and mathematical procedures as well as using comparative analysis procedure. We analyzed laboratory data on sanitary-chemical and physical-chemical parameters collected over 2010–2019; our analysis revealed there were insignificant risks excluding FP contamination with nitrates. Special attention should be paid to microbiological contamination as overall parameters related to it remain steady over the compared 5-year periods. We also have detected unfavorable trends as average parameters have grown authentically over the last 5 years against 2010–2014 when it comes to fruit and vegetables, poultry, fish products, and alcoholic beverages with growth rates varying from 3.53 times to 1.44 times. Having accomplished all the necessary calculations, we established that in Buryatia, just as in the Russian Federation in general, there were no food products that could cause extremely high health risks. But at the same time, the examined regional market had certain differences from the overall Russian one. High health risks were caused by poultry and it was not the case in the country in general. Bakery, confectionary, and fish products that caused high health risks in the country as a whole caused only significant risks in the region. Milk products also were assigned into a high risk category. We performed complex assessment and classified FP as per their quality and safety using health risk analysis methodology; it allowed us to determine priorities resulted from microbiological contamination of poultry and this fact is vital for population health in Buryatia.
Anthrax cattle burials as a potential threat caused by changes in cryolite zones in the northern European part of Russia
Authors:   N. Laverov Federal Center for Integrated Arctic Research of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Naberezhnaya Severnoi Dviny, Arkhangel'sk, 163000, Russian Federation, Iglovsky S.A. , Kriauciunas V.V. ,   N. Laverov Federal Center for Integrated Arctic Research of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Naberezhnaya Severnoi Dviny, Arkhangel'sk, 163000, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Over recent years there have been registered anthrax cases among animals and people in Russia. Anthrax cattle burials remain a basic risk factor that causes epizootic deterioration. A lot of such burials do not correspond to sanitary-epidemiologic requirements especially those located in zones where long-term frozen rocks are now being developed in the northern European part of the country. Our research goal was to examine a situation with anthrax cattle burials in the chosen regions, especially bearing in mind climatic changes and changes in cryolite zones as well as to assess future prospects regarding them. It is especially vital for native people who live in tundra and breed their numerous deer herds there. To achieve the goal, several tasks were accomplished. First, we performed preliminary analysis of anthrax cattle burials distribution in the northern European part of the country and places that were unfavorable as per anthrax. Then, locations of such zones were compared with available data on contemporary development of the cryolite zone in the northern European part of the country. It was necessary to assess future changes in the cryolite zone and describe occurring problems related to anthrax cattle burials being widely spread there as well as to suggest possible ways to solve them. Over the last 50 years considerable spots in the cryolite zone have thawed through completely or partially, especially in an area close to the south border of frozen earth. It is important to know an actual situation with anthrax cattle burials given changing climatic conditions and to assess their future prospects. In order to prevent emergencies in zones where geocryological processes have been activated it is necessary to measure temperature on anthrax cattle burials territories, to assess geocryological threats, to create mathematical models for probable negative events occurrence, as well as to accomplish certain anti-epidemic, anti-epizootic, and preventive activities.
Creating zones in administrative districts located in the Russian arctic region specific as per threats of cattle burials decay due to permafrost degradation
Authors:   Institute of Economic Forecasting of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 47 Nakhimovskii Ave., Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation, Revich B.A. , Shaposhnikov D.A. ,   Institute of Economic Forecasting of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 47 Nakhimovskii Ave., Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation, Raichich S.R. ,   Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 3A Novogireevskaya Str., Moscow, 111123, Russian Federation, Saburova S.A. ,   Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 3A Novogireevskaya Str., Moscow, 111123, Russian Federation, Simonova E.G. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 2/6 Bol'shaya Pirogovskaya Str., Moscow, 119435, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Climatic changes have already resulted and will continue to result in gradual degradation of active upper layers in permafrost due to increased average air temperature in summer. Anthrax is an example of a climate-depending bacterial infection; anthrax agent creates spores that remain viable for a long period of time they spend in cryptobiosis in permafrost. Apparent permafrost degradation is already detected in most arctic regions in Russia and it can lead to anthrax burials decay thus creating elevated risks of the infection among farm animals and people who live on these territories. Our research goal was to create specific zones in municipal districts via combining data on permafrost, number of anthrax cattle burials, ascending trends in average long-term temperatures, and population density. We developed two relative hazard coefficients for characterizing anthrax outbreaks probability for animals and local population. Basing on numeric values obtained for these two coefficients, 70 administrative districts located in 15 RF subjects in the Arctic zone were listed in a descending order as per risks of the infection occurrence. We created two score scales showing relative hazard; they indicated that the highest population risk was typical for urban districts as population density there was much high than in rural ones. Our calculations should be helpful for determining priorities when preventive activities are developed on arctic and sub-arctic territories that are endemic as per anthrax. It is also important to obtain an actual list of cattle burials and to develop spatial-time models showing anthrax outbreaks occurrence taking into account climatic warming and permafrost degradation.
Gut microbiota as risk factor causing obesity in children
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Petrova P.Yu. , Aga A.D. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Trapeznikova E.S. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Budanova E.V. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Nowadays obesity resulting from abnormal or excessive fat deposits in a body has become a true epidemic. Risk factors that cause the disease include improper lifestyle, hereditary predisposition, as well as metabolic activity of gut microbiota. Research works performed over the last decades indicate that microbes that create colonies in human intestines play a significant role in maintaining proper metabolism. There is a correlation between disorders in gut microbiota structure and immune disorders, elevated susceptibility to infections, and obesity. There is more and more evidence that gut microbiota and its overall bacterial genome exert their influence on nutrients assimilation and regulate energy metabolism and fat accumulation. Certain differences were detected in microbiota gut structure in children and adults with obesity and people with proper body mass index. Delivery and feeding are among key factors influencing gut microbiota formation in a child. Thus, research results indicate that natural birth, as opposed to cesarean section, can prevent obesity occurrence in a child. Breast-feeding also makes a substantial contribution into development of an infant since breast milk is balanced food that provides optimal metabolism in an infant’s body and helps creating proper gut microbiota. At the same time, according to data obtained via numerous research works, artificial feeding can be related to obesity occurrence in future. Ways to fight obesity include medication therapy, dietary nutrition, physical activity as well as bariatric surgery; the latter is nowadays considered to be the most efficient procedure on the matter. Reduction in body mass via influencing gut microbiota is a promising trend in research in the sphere. Despite there are objective data on benign effects produced by probiotics and prebiotics on gut microbiota, experts haven’t been able to reach agreement on their efficiency yet.
Historical, Cultural, and Religious Influences in Anatomy and Physiology and their Relevance to Diversity and Inclusion
Authors: Meyer Edgar
Published: May 2021

There have been many cultural and religious influences on the studies of anatomy and physiology throughout history. This article provides a brief survey of historical and cultural influences on medicine and anatomy and physiology specifically. These historical and cultural influences include the lifetime and strategic contributions of early physicians, scientists, and scholars as well as the contributions of entire cultures through the social sciences and the religious and non-religious humanities. Discussion of these historical, cultural, and religious topics can be integrated into anatomy and physiology classrooms as lessons that promote diversity and inclusion and cultural humility among faculty and students. Examples of such lessons are described in this article in alignment with the diversity and inclusion goals that were incorporated into the revised Human Anatomy and Physiology Society (HAPS) Learning Goals for Students. These learning goals showcase the increasing emphasis that HAPS has been ascribing to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Retraction Notice: Tocotrienols and its Role in Cardiovascular Health- a Lead for Drug Design
Authors: Vasanthi Hannah R. , Parameswari R. P. , Das Dipak K.
Published: April 2021

The article has been retracted by the Editorial office of the journal Current Pharmaceutical Design, due to some inconsistencies
in the article [1]. The article appeared to be copied verbatim from published papers. Upon checking these facts, we have
established that considerable portions of this review are made up of text copied verbatim from other published material. The
Publisher has retracted this article in accordance with good ethical practices.

REFERENCE

[1] Vasanthi HR, Parameswari RP and Das DK. Tocotrienols and its Role in Cardiovascular Health- a Lead for Drug Design. Curr Pharm
Des 2011; 17(21): 2170-5.

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Do Naturally Occurring Antioxidants Protect Against Neurodegeneration
of the Dopaminergic System? A Systematic Revision in Animal Models of
Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Costas Carmen , Faro Lilian R.F.
Published: May 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease and is
characterized by a significant decrease in dopamine levels, caused by progressive degeneration of
the dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway. Multiple mechanisms have been implicated
in its pathogenesis, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, mitochondrial
dysfunction, insufficient support for neurotrophic factors and cell apoptosis. The absence
of treatments capable of slowing or stopping the progression of PD has increased the interest
in the natural antioxidant substances present in the diet, since they have multiple beneficial properties
and it is possible that they can influence the mechanisms responsible for the dysfunction
and death of dopaminergic neurons. Thus, the purpose of this systematic review is to analyze the
results obtained in a set of studies carried out in the last years, which describe the neuroprotective,
antioxidant and regenerative functions of some naturally occurring antioxidants in experimental
models of PD. The results show that the exogenous no enzymatic antioxidants can significantly
modify the biochemical and behavioral mechanisms that contribute to the pathophysiology of
Parkinsonism in experimental animals. Therefore, it is possible that they may contribute to effective
neuroprotection by providing a significant improvement in neuropathological markers. In conclusion,
the results of this review suggest that exogenous antioxidants can be promising therapeutic
candidates for the prevention and treatment of PD.
Hindering the Synchronization Between miR-486-5p and H19 lncRNA by Hesperetin
Halts Breast Cancer Aggressiveness Through Tuning ICAM-1
Authors: Abdallah Ramah M. , Elkhouly Aisha M. , Soliman Raghda A. , El Mechawy Nehad , El Sebaei Ahmed , Motaal Amira A. , El-Askary Hesham , Youness Rana A. , Assal Reem A.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Recently, a novel crosstalk between non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has been casted.
However, this has been seldom investigated in metastatic BC (mBC). H19 and miR-486-5p role in mBC are
controversial. ICAM-1 is a recently recognized metastatic engine in mBC. Natural compounds were recently
found to alter ncRNAs/target circuits. Yet, Hesperitin’s modulatory role in altering such circuits has never been
investigated in mBC.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of hesperitin on miR-486-5p/H19/ICAM-1 axis.

Methodology:

BC patients (n=20) were recruited in the study. Bioinformatic analysis was performed using different
prediction softwares. MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells were cultured and transfected using several
oligonucleotides or treated with serial dilutions of hesperitin. RNA was extracted and gene expression analysis
was performed using q-RT-PCR. ICAM-1 protein levels were assessed using human ICAM-1 Elisa Kit.
Cytotoxic potential of hesperitin against normal cells was assessed by LDH assay. Several functional analysis
experiments were performed such as MTT, colony forming and migration assays.

Results:

The study showed that miR-486-5p and H19 had paradoxical expression profiles in BC patients. miR-
486-5p mimics and H19 siRNAs repressed ICAM-1 and halted mBC hallmarks. A novel crosstalk between miR-
486-5p and H19 was observed highlighting a bi-directional relationship between them. Hesperetin restored the
expression of miR-486-5p, inhibited H19 lncRNA and ICAM-1 expression and selectively regressed mBC cell
aggressiveness.

Conclusion:

miR-486-5p and H19 are inter-connected upstream regulators for ICAM-1 building up miR-486-
5p/H19/ICAM-1 axis that has been successfully tuned in mBC cells by hesperitin.
TSH Variations in Chronic Heart Failure Outpatients: Clinical Correlates and Outcomes
Authors: Terlizzese Paola , Albanese Miriam , Grande Dario , Parisi Giuseppe , Gioia Margherita Ilaria , Brunetti Natale Daniele , Lisi Francesco , Lisco Giuseppe , Di Serio Francesca , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Triggiani Vincenzo , Iacoviello Massimo
Published: May 2021

Background:

Hypothyroidism is a frequently observed comorbidity in patients with
chronic heart failure (CHF), possibly giving rise to unfavorable outcomes.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of TSH changes over time on cardiac function
and prognosis of outpatients with CHF.

Methods:

Patients underwent clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic evaluations at
baseline and after 12 months. Moreover, blood chemistry tests were performed to evaluate renal
function, cardiac biomarkers, fT3, fT4, and TSH levels. Based on TSH serum levels, patients were
retrospectively classified into four categories: Group 1, patients with improved thyroid function at
one-year follow up vs. baseline; Group 2, patients with stable and mildly high TSH values (3.74 –
10 mUI/L); Group 3, patients with worsening thyroid function; Euthyroid patients Group, TSH levels
within the normal range of reference at baseline as well as at 12 months follow-up. We considered
as end-points: one-year changes of laboratory and echocardiographic parameters; hospitalizations
due to worsening of HF (acute decompensated heart failure - ADHF); death for all causes.

Results:

Among 257 patients, 174 (67.7%) were euthyroid at baseline and after 12 months. Group
1 patients (n. 22, 8.6%) showed a significant improvement in systolic and diastolic function, filling
pressures, NT-proBNP and Galectin-3. Group 2 patients (n. 34, 13.2%) did not exhibit significant
modifications in studied parameters. Group 3 patients (n. 27, 10.5%) showed worsening of diastolic
function and NT-proBNP and a greater risk of ADHF (HR: 2.12; 95%CI: 1.20-3.74; p: 0.009)
and death (HR: 4.05; 95%CI: 2.01-8.15; p<0.001).

Conclusion:

In patients with CHF, changes in thyroid function over time influenced echocardiographic
parameters and biomarkers reflecting modifications of cardiac function and prognosis, thus
suggesting the clinical relevance of thyroid deficiency screening and correction.
Characteristics of the Iron-responsive Element (IRE) Stems in the Untranslated Regions of Animal mRNAs
Authors: Wang Bin , Thompson Michael S. , Adkins Kevin M.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Iron-responsive Elements (IREs) are hairpin structures located in the 5’ or 3’ untranslated region of some animal mRNAs. IREs have a highly conserved terminal loop and a UGC/C or C bulge five bases upstream of the terminal loop, which divides the hairpin stem into an upper stem and a lower stem.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the base-pair composition of the upper and lower stems of IREs to determine whether they are highly conserved among mRNAs from different genes.

Methods:

The mRNA sequences of six 5’IREs and five 3’IREs from several animal species were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The folding free energy of each IRE mRNA sequence was predicted using the RNAfold WebServer.

Results:

We found that the upper and lower stems of IREs are not highly conserved among the mRNAs of different genes. There are no statistically significant differences in the IRE structures or folding free energies between mammalian and non-mammalian species relative to either the ferritin heavy chain 5’IRE or ferroportin 5’IRE. There are no overall significant differences in the folding free energies between UGC/C-containing 5’IREs and C-bulge-containing 5’IREs, or between 5’IREs and 3’IREs.

Conclusion:

Further studies are needed to investigate whether the variations in IRE stem composition are responsible for fine-tuning the IRE/Iron-Regulatory Protein interactions among different mRNAs to maintain the balance of cellular iron metabolism, and to identify whether evolutionary processes drive the base-pair composition of the upper and lower stems of IREs toward any particular configuration.
Knowledge Sharing sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Kompetensi dan Kinerja Pegawai (Studi pada Pusat Pelatihan dan Pengembangan dan Pemetaaan Kompetensi Aparatur Sipil Negara Lembaga Administrasi Negara)
Authors: Nugroho Candra Setya
Published: May 2021

Knowledge is a strategic asset of an organization which is still largely in the minds of its employees. Therefore the organization needs to make special efforts to catch it. The PKASN LAN Puslatbang LAN attempts to capture this knowledge through knowledge sharing among its employees. Knowledge sharing aims to improve the knowledge and performance of employees. This research aims to find out various knowledge sharing methods applied by PKASN LAN Puslatbang, knowing the supporting factors of implementing knowledge sharing, and knowing the inhibiting factors. The research method that will be used is descriptive qualitative method. Based on the research that has been done, it is obtained that the knowledge sharing in the PKASN Puslatbang is carried out through employee meeting methods, inhouse training, discussions between employees, and other methods. Supporting factors are organizational culture, human resources, and leadership support. The inhibiting factors are institutional, governance, and the absence of rewards for employees who share their knowledge.