bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibroinflammatory Signatures Increase with Age in the Human Ovary and Follicular Fluid
Authors: Machlin Jordan H. , Barishansky Seth J. , Kelsh John , Larmore Megan J. , Johnson Brian W. , Pritchard Michele T. , Pavone Mary Ellen , Duncan Francesca E.
Published: May 2021

The female reproductive system ages before any other organ system in the body. This phenomenon can have tangible clinical implications leading to infertility, miscarriages, birth defects and systemic deterioration due to estrogen loss. “Fibroinflammation” is a hallmark of aging tissues; there is an increase in inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic tissue in the aging ovarian stroma. We systematically evaluated immunomodulatory factors in human follicular fluid, which, like the stroma, is a critical ovarian microenvironment directly influencing the oocyte. Using a cytokine antibody array, we identified a unique fibroinflammatory cytokine signature in follicular fluid across an aging series of women (27.7–44.8 years). This signature (IL-3, IL-7, IL-15, TGFβ1, TGFβ3 and MIP-1) increased with chronologic age, was inversely correlated to anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, and was independent of body mass index (BMI). We focused on one specific protein, TGFβ3, for further validation. By investigating this cytokine in human cumulus cells and ovarian tissue, we found that the age-dependent increase in TGFβ3 expression was unique to the ovarian stroma but not other ovarian sub-compartments. This study broadens our understanding of inflammaging in the female reproductive system and provides a defined fibroinflammatory aging signature in follicular fluid and molecular targets in the ovary with potential clinical utility.
Feasibility of Reusing Damaged Steel Beams in Temporary Structures
Authors: El-Ariss Bilal , Elkholy Said
Published: May 2021

This study addresses the feasibility of reusing pre-damaged steel beams in temporary structures. The extensive structural investigation of notch-damaged, unrepaired, and laterally unsupported steel beams was performed experimentally and numerically. The simply supported specimens were tested in two-point loading with the study parameters being the location and size of the notch. Some beams had one notch on one edge of the tension flange at different locations, and some beams had two notches on both edges of the tension flange. Three-dimensional numerical models were generated to simulate the behavior of the test beams. After verifying the model, the numerical analysis was extended to cover additional different notch depths and widths. The study showed that the capacity of beams with single notch was more influenced by the notch depth increase than it was by the increase in the notch width. Beams with double notches exhibited an even more pronounced and distinct decrease in the capacity as the notch depth and width increased. This investigation supports the feasibility of reusing pre-damaged steel beams in temporary structures under service loads and certain levels of damage, where the behavior of such beams is within the elastic range and the beam maximum defection is less than the allowable one.
Editorial for Special Issue “Functional Coordination Polymers and Metal–Organic Frameworks”
Authors: Rossin Andrea
Published: May 2021

Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Coordination Polymers (CPs) are at the forefront of contemporary coordination chemistry research, as witnessed by the impressive (and ever-growing) number of publications appearing in the literature on this topic in the last 20 years (Figure 1), reaching almost 4000 papers in 2020 [...]
Mitochondrial DNA Suggests the Introduction of Honeybees of African Ancestry to East-Central Europe
Authors: Oleksa Andrzej , Kusza Szilvia , Tofilski Adam
Published: May 2021

In Europe, protecting the genetic diversity of Apis mellifera is usually perceived in the context of limiting the spread of the evolutionary C-lineage within the original range of the M-lineage. However, due to climate change and large-scale ongoing movement of breeding individuals, the expansion of bees from the African A-lineage could represent another threat. This issue has not yet been investigated in detail, although A-mitotypes occur in South-West and South Europe due to natural gene flow. Here, we determine the diversity of mtDNA in honey bees from East-Central Europe. We sequenced the COI-COII region in 427 bees sampled along two 900 km transects (17.5° N and 23° E). We found that 1.64% of bees (95% CI: 0.66–3.35 %) had A-mitotypes. It is unlikely that their presence in the area resulted from natural migration but instead human driven introductions of hybrids of African ancestry. This expansion deserves more attention, as it may contribute to the dissemination of undesirable traits, parasites and diseases.
The Oldest Evolutionary Lineage of Trichoneura Loew, 1850 (Diptera, Limoniidae) and the First Evidence of This Genus in Cretaceous Spanish Amber
Authors: Kania-Kłosok Iwona , Krzemiński Wiesław , Kopeć Katarzyna , Arillo Antonio
Published: May 2021

A new subgenus Cretalinea subgen. nov. of Trichoneura (Diptera, Limoniidae) is established with one new species: Trichoneura (Cretalinea) xavieri subgen. et sp. nov. This is the first report of the genus Trichoneura in Spanish amber and the first record of the genus from the Lower Cretaceous period. The oldest described species of Trichoneura is compared with other species of the genus with particular reference to those known species from the Upper Cretaceous. A list and key of fossil species of Trichoneura are given.
Carcasses at Fixed Locations Host a Higher Diversity of Necrophilous Beetles
Authors: von Hoermann Christian , Lackner Tomáš , Sommer David , Heurich Marco , Benbow M. Eric , Müller Jörg
Published: May 2021

In contrast to other necromass, such as leaves, deadwood, or dung, the drivers of insect biodiversity on carcasses are still incompletely understood. For vertebrate scavengers, a richer community was shown for randomly placed carcasses, due to lower competition. Here we tested if scavenging beetles similarly show a higher diversity at randomly placed carcasses compared to easily manageable fixed places. We sampled 12,879 individuals and 92 species of scavenging beetles attracted to 17 randomly and 12 at fixed places exposed and decomposing carcasses of red deer, roe deer, and red foxes compared to control sites in a low range mountain forest. We used rarefaction-extrapolation curves along the Hill-series to weight diversity from rare to dominant species and indicator species analysis to identify differences between placement types, the decay stage, and carrion species. Beetle diversity decreased from fixed to random locations, becoming increasingly pronounced with weighting of dominant species. In addition, we found only two indicator species for exposure location type, both representative of fixed placement locations and both red listed species, namely Omosita depressa and Necrobia violacea. Furthermore, we identified three indicator species of Staphylinidae (Philonthus marginatus and Oxytelus laqueatus) and Scarabaeidae (Melinopterus prodromus) for larger carrion and one geotrupid species Anoplotrupes stercorosus for advanced decomposition stages. Our study shows that necrophilous insect diversity patterns on carcasses over decomposition follow different mechanisms than those of vertebrate scavengers with permanently established carrion islands as important habitats for a diverse and threatened insect fauna.
Transcriptome Analysis of the Regulatory Mechanism of FoxO on Wing Dimorphism in the Brown Planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Xu Nan , Wei Sheng-Fei , Xu Hai-Jun
Published: May 2021

The brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, can develop into either short-winged (SW) or long-winged (LW) adults according to environmental conditions, and has long served as a model organism for exploring the mechanisms of wing polyphenism in insects. The transcription factor NlFoxO acts as a master regulator that directs the development of either SW or LW morphs, but the underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. Here, we microinjected SW-destined morphs with double stranded-RNA (dsRNA) targeting NlFoxO (dsNlFoxO) to change them into LW-winged morphs. In parallel, SW-destined morphs microinjected with dsRNA targeting the gene encoding green fluorescence protein (dsGfp) served as a negative control. The forewing and hindwing buds of 5th-instar nymphs collected at 24, 36, and 48 h after eclosion (hAE) were used for RNA sequencing. We obtained a minimum of 43.4 million clean reads from forewing and hindwing buds at a single developmental time. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in various Gene Ontology (GO) terms, including cellular process, binding, and cell part. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment pathway analysis showed that up-regulated genes in dsNlFoxO-treated forewing and hindwing buds were largely associated with the cell cycle and DNA replication. Furthermore, most up-regulated genes displayed higher expression at 24-, and 36-hAE relative to 48 hAE, indicating that wing cells in LW-destined wings might actively proliferate during the first 36 h in 5th-instar nymphs. Our findings indicated that LW development in BPH was likely dependent on the duration of cell proliferation in the 5th-instar stage, which sheds light on the molecular basis of wing polymorphism in insects.
Peptidic Connexin43 Therapeutics in Cardiac Reparative Medicine
Authors: Marsh Spencer R. , Williams Zachary J. , Pridham Kevin J. , Gourdie Robert G.
Published: May 2021

Connexin (Cx43)-formed channels have been linked to cardiac arrhythmias and diseases of the heart associated with myocardial tissue loss and fibrosis. These pathologies include ischemic heart disease, ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. A number of Cx43 mimetic peptides have been reported as therapeutic candidates for targeting disease processes linked to Cx43, including some that have advanced to clinical testing in humans. These peptides include Cx43 sequences based on the extracellular loop domains (e.g., Gap26, Gap 27, and Peptide5), cytoplasmic-loop domain (Gap19 and L2), and cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal domain (e.g., JM2, Cx43tat, CycliCX, and the alphaCT family of peptides) of this transmembrane protein. Additionally, RYYN peptides binding to the Cx43 carboxyl-terminus have been described. In this review, we survey preclinical and clinical data available on short mimetic peptides based on, or directly targeting, Cx43, with focus on their potential for treating heart disease. We also discuss problems that have caused reluctance within the pharmaceutical industry to translate peptidic therapeutics to the clinic, even when supporting preclinical data is strong. These issues include those associated with the administration, stability in vivo, and tissue penetration of peptide-based therapeutics. Finally, we discuss novel drug delivery technologies including nanoparticles, exosomes, and other nanovesicular carriers that could transform the clinical and commercial viability of Cx43-targeting peptides in treatment of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and other indications requiring oral or parenteral administration. Some of these newly emerging approaches to drug delivery may provide a path to overcoming pitfalls associated with the drugging of peptide therapeutics.
Development and Validation of the Pain and State of Health Inventory (PHI): Application for the Perioperative Setting
Authors: Stuhlreyer Julia , Klinger Regine
Published: May 2021

Currently, general measurements and evaluations of the quality of recovery are difficult because no adequate measuring tools are available. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a universal tool that assesses patient-relevant criteria—postoperative pain, state of health, and somatic parameters. For this purpose, a pain and state of health inventory (PHI, Schmerz- und Befindlichkeitsinventar (SBI) in German) has been developed. In this study, we describe its development and validation. The development phase was led by an expert panel and was divided into three subphases: determining the conceptual structure, testing the first editions, and adjusting the inventory for a finalized edition. For the purpose of validation, the PHI was filled in by 132 patients who have undergone total knee replacement and was analyzed using principal component analysis. Construct validity was tested by correlating the items with validated questionnaires. The results showed that the inventory can test pain, state of health, and somatic parameters with great construct validity. Furthermore, the inventory is accepted by patients, map changes, and supports to initiate adequate treatment. In conclusion, the PHI is a universal tool that can be used to assess the quality of recovery in the perioperative setting and allow immediate intervention.
Association of Urine Metanephrine Levels with CardiometaBolic Risk: An Observational Retrospective Study
Authors: Parasiliti-Caprino Mirko , Obert Chiara , Lopez Chiara , Bollati Martina , Bioletto Fabio , Bima Chiara , Egalini Filippo , Berton Alessandro Maria , Prencipe Nunzia , Settanni Fabio , Gasco Valentina , Mengozzi Giulio , Ghigo Ezio , Maccario Mauro
Published: May 2021

No research has explored the role of catecholamine metabolites in the stratification of cardiovascular risk. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between urine metanephrines and cardiometabolic risk/complications. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we collected the data of 1374 patients submitted to the evaluation of urine metanephrines at the City of Health and Science University Hospital of Turin between 2007 and 2015, mainly for investigating the suspicion of secondary hypertension or the secretion of an adrenal lesion. The univariate analysis showed associations between metanephrines and cardiometabolic variables/parameters, particularly considering noradrenaline metabolite. At univariate regression, normetanephrine was associated with hypertensive cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.11–1.25; p < 0.001) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.03–1.20; p = 0.004), while metanephrine was associated with hypertensive cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.06–1.43; p = 0.006) and microalbuminuria (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.03–1.60; p = 0.018). At multivariate regression, considering all major cardiovascular risk factors as possible confounders, normetanephrine retained a significant association with hypertensive cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.07–1.22; p < 0.001) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.02–1.19; p = 0.017). Moreover, metanephrine retained a significant association with the presence of hypertensive cardiomyopathy (OR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.01–1.41; p = 0.049) and microalbuminuria (OR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.03–1.69; p = 0.019). The study showed a strong relationship between metanephrines and cardiovascular complications/metabolic alterations. Individuals with high levels of these indirect markers of sympathetic activity should be carefully monitored, and they may benefit from an aggressive treatment to reduce the cardiometabolic risk.
Gender-Based Quantitative Analysis of the Grand Piano Sign in Mechanically Aligned Total Knee Arthroplasty in Asians
Authors: Cho Byung-Woo , Nam Ji-Hoon , Koh Yong-Gon , Min Ji-Hwan , Park Kwan-Kyu , Kang Kyoung-Tak
Published: May 2021

In mechanically aligned (MA) total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the grand piano sign helps surgeons to further ensure the proper external rotation of the femoral component. The goal of this study was to determine the sex-related differences in the shape of the anterior resection surface using 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) models. MRI scans were performed on 267 consecutive patients (202 women and 65 men) with osteoarthritis who underwent TKA in order to reconstruct a 3D model. Virtual anterior condylar resection was performed based on the surgical transepicondylar axis (sTEA), Whiteside’s line (WSL), and flexion-extension axis (FEA). On the anterior resection surface, both lateral length (LatL) and medial length (MedL) were measured, and the ratio between the two (MedL/LatL) was calculated. The mediolateral width of the distal femur (ML) and anterior resection surface (M′L′) were measured, and the ratio between the M′L′ and ML (M′L′/ML) was calculated. Both the lateral deviation (LD) and the ratio between LD and ML (LD/ML) were also determined. Morphological classification of the anterior resection surface was conducted based on the presence of a definite medial peak. When based on the sTEA or WSL, the MedL/LatL of female subjects was significantly greater than that of male subjects (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The MedL/LatL of the FEA was consistently larger than that obtained using the sTEA or WSL. Among female subjects, the MedL/LatL of the sTEA was significantly greater than that of the WSL, although this was not the case in either the total study population or the male subjects alone. When based on the sTEA, the M′L′/ML was statistically greater in the female subjects (p < 0.01). The LD was greater in the male subjects (p < 0.01), but there was no difference between the male and female subjects when comparing the LD/ML (p = 0.93). The proportion of double- and single-peak types was not significantly different between the sexes (p = 0.196). Surgeons should be aware that the shape of the anterior resection surface may differ depending on the sex of the patient. The results of this study provide more consistent surgical outcomes as well as fundamental anatomical data for designing suitable prostheses applicable to the Korean population.
Coenzyme Q10 in Mitochondrial and Lysosomal Disorders
Authors: Hargreaves Iain P.
Published: May 2021

Within the mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC), coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a key role as an electron carrier transporting electron derived from complex I (NADH: Ubiquinone reductase) and complex II (succinate: Ubiquinone oxidoreductase) to complex III (ubiquinol: Cytochrome c reductase) [...]
Production of IL-31 in CD45RO+CLA+H4R+ T Cells in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Bang Chul Hwan , Song Ji Young , Song Yu Mee , Lee Ji Hyun , Park Young Min , Lee Jun Young
Published: May 2021

IL-31 is involved in pruritus in atopic dermatitis (AD) and the pathogenesis of AD. However, the mechanism of IL-31 production is not fully understood. We sought to investigate the association between CD45RO+CLA+H4R+ T cells and IL-31 production. Immunofluorescence studies were performed retrospectively on punch-biopsy specimens from five people with AD and three healthy controls. In addition, blood samples were collected prospectively from eight patients with AD and eight healthy controls for sorting CD45RO+CLA+H4R+ T cells. There was no overlap of patients between the biopsy group and the blood sampling group. Sorted cells were stimulated with 4-methylhistamine (4MH), and the level of IL-31 was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunofluorescence showed co-localization of H4R and IL-31 in lesional AD skin but not in normal skin of healthy controls. The proportion of CLA+H4R+ T cells among CD3+CD45RO+ lymphocytes was 18.3 ± 6.2% in patients with AD and 11.2 ± 7.6% in healthy controls. In the AD group, production of IL-31 by CD45RO+CLA+H4R+ T cells increased from 32.4 ± 13.3 pg/mL to 47.5 ± 18.7 pg/mL by 4MH stimulation after 24 h (p < 0.001). However, in the control group, production of IL-31 was 20.1 ± 10.6 pg/mL without and 22.1 ± 9.3 pg/mL with 4MH stimulation (p > 0.05). According to our study, CD45RO+CLA+H4R+ T cells are an important source of IL-31 in AD, and may be a target for treatment of IL-31-induced pruritus.
Relationship between 30 Days Mortality and Incidence of Intraoperative Cardiac Arrest According to the Timing of ECMO
Authors: Kim Taehwa , Lee Seungeun , Lee Sungkwang
Published: May 2021

Background: Recently, the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in noncardiac surgery, such as thoracic surgery, has increased. However, there have been no studies on the mortality and incidence of intraoperative cardiac arrest with or without ECMO during thoracic surgery. Methods: Between January 2011 and October 2018, 63 patients received ECMO support during thoracic surgery. All patients who applied ECMO from starting at any time before surgery to the day of surgery were included. Patients were divided into the emergency ECMO group and the non-emergency ECMO group according to the timing of ECMO. We compared the factors related to 30 day mortality using Cox regression analysis. Results: The emergency ECMO and non-emergency ECMO groups comprised 27 and 36 patients, respectively. On the operation day, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was a very important result, and only occurred in the emergency ECMO group (n = 20, 74.1% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). The most common cause of ECMO indication was the CPR in the emergency ECMO group and respiratory failure in the non-emergency ECMO group. There were significant differences in 30 day mortality between the emergency ECMO group and the non-emergency ECMO group (n = 12, 44.4% vs. n = 3, 8.3%, p = 0.001). The Kaplan–Meier analysis curve for 30 day mortality showed that the emergency ECMO group had a significantly higher rate of 30 day mortality than the non-emergency ECMO group (X2 = 14.7, p < 0.001). Conclusions: A lower incidence of intraoperative cardiac arrest occurred in the non-emergency ECMO group than in the emergency ECMO group. Moreover, 30 day mortality was associated with emergency ECMO.
Handgrip Strength Correlated with Falling Risk in Patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Jimenez Kathryn Anne , Kwon Ji-Won , Yoon Jayeong , Lee Hwan-Mo , Moon Seong-Hwan , Suk Kyung-Soo , Kim Hak-Sun , Lee Byung Ho
Published: May 2021

Background: Few studies have investigated associations between hand grip strength (HGS) and the surgical outcomes of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). Methods: This study was designed as a prospective observational study of 203 patients who had undergone fusion surgery for DCM. We divided the patients according to sex and HGS differences. Clinical outcome parameters, including HGS, a fall diary and four functional mobility tests (alternative step test, six-meter walk test, timed up and go test, and sit-to-stand test) were measured preoperatively, at 3 months and 1 year after surgery. Results: Mean patient ages were 59.93 years in the male group and 67.33 years in the female group (p = 0.000; independent t-test). The mean HGS of both hands improved significantly at postoperative 3 months and 1 year in all patients (p = 0.000 for both; ANOVA). In male patients, preoperative risk of falls was negatively correlated with HGS (p = 0.000). In female patients, pre- and postoperative risk of falls were correlated negatively with HGS (p = 0.000). The postoperative incidence of falls decreased in both groups (p = 0.000) Conclusions: Postoperative HGS in patients with DCM is correlated with postoperative falls and functional outcome differently, when comparing male and female patients, for predicting favorable outcomes and neurologic deficit recovery after surgery in DCM patients.
Amyloid Goiter in Familial Mediterranean Fever: Description of 42 Cases from a French Cohort and from Literature Review
Authors: Vergneault Hélène , Terré Alexandre , Buob David , Buffet Camille , Dumont Anael , Ardois Samuel , Savey Léa , Pardon Agathe , Michel Pierre-Antoine , Boffa Jean-Jacques , Grateau Gilles , Georgin-Lavialle Sophie
Published: May 2021

Our aim was to describe the main features of amyloid goiter in adults with amyloidosis secondary to familial Mediterranean fever. Therefore, we analyzed cases from a French cohort of familial Mediterranean fever patients with amyloidosis and from literature review. Forty-two cases were identified: 9 from the French cohort and 33 from literature review. Ninety percent of patients were on hemodialysis for renal amyloidosis before the development of goiter. The goiter grew up rapidly in 88% of cases; 75.6% of patients were euthyroid, 58% displayed dyspnea, and 44.8% dysphagia. Various features were seen on ultrasound, from diffuse to multinodular goiter. When it was performed, fine-needle aspiration biopsy almost always revealed amyloidosis. Thirty-one patients underwent thyroidectomy: to manage compressive symptoms (72%) or rule out malignancy (27%). Histology showed mature adipose tissue in 64% of cases and lymphocytic infiltration in 21.4%. In conclusion, amyloid goiter in familial Mediterranean fever preferentially occurs in patients with end stage renal failure. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy seems to be a sensitive exam for diagnosis, but thyroidectomy remains sometimes necessary to rule out malignancy or release compressive symptoms.
Serum Levels of miR-148b and Let-7b at Diagnosis May Have Important Impact in the Response to Treatment and Long-Term Outcome in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Kouri Nikoleta M. , Stangou Maria , Lioulios George , Mitsoglou Zoi , Serino Grazia , Chiurlia Samantha , Cox Sharon Natasha , Stropou Persia , Schena Francesco P. , Papagianni Aikaterini
Published: May 2021

Background/aims: Previous studies showed that two microRNAs, let-7b and miR-148, which regulate the O-glycosylation process of IgA1, may predict diagnosis of primary IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The combined analysis of their serum levels in calculated statistical models may act as serum biomarkers for the diagnosis of primary IgAN. In the present study, we aimed to assess their impact not only on clinical and histological findings at onset but also on renal function after a long-term follow-up. Patients and methods: We enrolled 61 Caucasian patients with biopsy-proven IgAN. Serum levels of miR-148b, let-7b, and galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) at the time of diagnosis were measured using real-time quantitative PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using the monoclonal antibody KM55, respectively. Their values along with calculated Models 1 and 2 were correlated with histologic scoring system (Oxford classification system) and with renal function at diagnosis and after 11.9 ± 6.6 years. Fifty-five healthy volunteers were enrolled as controls. Results: No significant correlation was found between miRNA and Gd-IgA1 levels and eGFR and proteinuria at diagnosis. A significant negative association was detected between the presence of crescents and serum levels of let-7b (p = 0.002), miR-148b (p = 0.01), and Models 1 and 2 (p = 0.02 and p = 0.007, respectively). At the end of follow-up, eGFR correlated with let-7b levels (p = 0.01), Model 1 (p = 0.002), and Model 2 (p = 0.004). Patients with fast progression of the renal damage had significantly increased levels of let-7b (p = 0.01), Model 1 (p = 0.003), and Model 2 (p = 0.005) compared to slow progressors, as did those who reached ESKD (p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). Results were most prominent in those treated with corticosteroids. Finally, cut off levels in Models 1 and 2 could also predict the renal function outcome after long-term follow-up. Conclusions: Serum levels of let-7b and miR-148b and their combination, may serve as predictors for long-term renal function outcomes, particularly in patients treated with corticosteroids.
Lateral Deflection Behavior of Perforated Steel Plates: Experimental and Numerical Approaches
Authors: Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Park Doo-Hwan , Kim Seul-Kee , Kim Jeong-Dae , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of the lateral deflection of a simply supported perforated steel plate subjected to axial compression. Investigating the lateral deflection of the perforated plate is of great significance because the buckling limit of structural members can be predicted not only by strength but also by displacement (or deflection). For this purpose, we conducted buckling experiments by considering various variables of the perforated plate, such as opening size, thickness, and aspect ratio. In addition, a series of elastoplastic large deflection analyses were performed using the commercial finite element analysis program, and the calculated results were compared along with the experimental results. Finally, practical curves, which can predict lateral deflection with an increase in axial displacement, and the occurrence point of ultimate strength are reported in this study. The results showed that there was a distinct difference in the behavior of lateral deflection between perforated plates with different opening ratios. The local buckling occurred mainly around the opening and was more dominant with an increase in the opening ratio. In addition, the ultimate strength of the perforated plate was determined at the end of the local buckling phase.
Beach Nourishment: A 21st Century Review
Authors: Moreno Luis J. , Muñoz-Perez Juan J.
Published: May 2021

Long-term erosion is experienced by most of the coastlines worldwide, and it is usually attributed not only to sea level rise but also to the retention of sand in dams, the occupation of dry beaches by urbanized areas, the disturbance of the natural patterns of longshore drift, the mining of sand as building material for construction, and so on [...]
Effects of Respiratory Muscle Training on Baroreflex Sensitivity, Respiratory Function, and Serum Oxidative Stress in Acute Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Wang Hung-Chen , Lin Yu-Tsai , Huang Chih-Cheng , Lin Meng-Chih , Liaw Mei-Yun , Lu Cheng-Hsien
Published: May 2021

Background: respiratory complications are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). We examined the effects of respiratory muscle training (RMT) in patients with acute cervical SCI. Methods: this prospective trial enrolled 44 adults with acute cervical SCI, of which twenty received RMT and twenty-four did not receive RMT. Respiratory function, cardiovascular autonomic function, and reactive oxidative species (ROS) were compared. The experimental group received 40-min high-intensity home-based RMT 7 days per week for 10 weeks. The control group received a sham intervention for a similar period. The primary outcomes were the effects of RMT on pulmonary and cardiovascular autonomic function, and ROS production in individuals with acute cervical SCI. Results: significant differences between the two groups in cardiovascular autonomic function and the heart rate response to deep breathing (p = 0.017) were found at the 6-month follow-up. After RMT, the maximal inspiratory pressure (p = 0.042) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) (p = 0.006) improved significantly, while there was no significant difference in the maximal expiratory pressure. Significant differences between the two groups in tidal volume (p = 0.005) and the rapid shallow breathing index (p = 0.031) were found at 6 months. Notably, the SF-36 (both the physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summaries) in the RMT group had decreased significantly at the 6-month follow-up, whereas the clinical scores did not differ significantly (p = 0.333) after RMT therapy. Conclusions: High-intensity home-based RMT can improve pulmonary function and endurance and reduce breathing difficulties in patients with respiratory muscle weakness after injury. It is recommended for rehabilitation after spinal cord injury.
The Effect of Industry Restructuring on Peer Firms
Authors: Holcomb Alex , Mason Paul
Published: May 2021

We study the bond price reaction of a merged firms peers, in order to better understand how the market responds to a restructuring. We argue that a merger announcement may signal the possibility of a merger wave to the industry, and in doing so, increase the conditional probability that peer firms might themselves be acquired in the future. However, while peer firm equity holders expect a direct benefit from a potential acquisition—in the form of a price premium—peer firm bond holders can only expect an indirect benefit—in the form of a risk reduction. Consistent with these hypotheses, we show that price reactions are stronger for firms that have a higher unconditional probability of being acquired ex-ante. In addition, we document that, cross-sectionally, the abnormal returns we observe from peer bondholders are concentrated among firms that have the highest expected risk reduction benefit from a potential acquisition. In order to distinguish a potential reduction in risk as the explicit return driver, we show that abnormal bond returns within firm (between different bond issues) are also concentrated among issues that have the highest expected risk reduction benefit.
Factors of labor productivity growth in the agro-industrial complex
Authors: Androsov S. , Kostrova Yu.
Published: May 2021

At the present stage, increasing labor productivity is a necessary condition for the effective development of both an individual enterprise and society as a whole, which is due to the reduction in the number of economically active population due to demographic changes [1]. This problem is particularly acute in the agricultural sector, as the population in rural areas is declining at a higher rate than in urban areas, and the need for high-quality food products is increasing. In this regard, the study of factors and directions of increasing labor productivity in agro-industrial production does not lose its relevance and requires additional study.
Assessment and problems of improving the efficiency of the use of labor resources in agriculture
Authors: Volchenkova A. , Kravchenko T.
Published: May 2021

The article deals with the problem of the efficiency of the use of labor resources in the agricultural sector. At the same time, the role of socio-economic groups in changing the level of agricultural labor productivity is noted. In dynamics, the indicators that characterize this group of factors and the reasons for their changes are considered. The authors substantiate the direction of the impact on the activation of underutilized reserves of agricultural labor efficiency growth.
Ministers’ Perceptions of Faith-Based Communities in Mental Health Services
Authors: Jacqueline Burse  , Tracey Marie Barnett  , Lester R. Collins  , Alexa Smith Osborne  , Natasha Stewart
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to explore faith-based leaders’ perceptions regarding provision of mental health services among their congregants and within the African American community. Previous research suggests that formal mental health services are less utilized by African Americans, however church leaders have historically provided congregants with faith-based mental health services (Allen, Davey & Davey, 2010). A secondary analysis of de-identified data on a sample of 246 African American ministry leaders was conducted. Findings suggested that most congregant leaders were able to recognize when individuals inconspicuously desired more of an evidence-based approach to mental health care, rather than the current offering of biblical expertise. A lower percentage of faith-based leaders had knowledge of mental health disorders and wanted to collaborate with others to increase health and wellness. The findings also suggest that faith-based pastors and leaders have a desire to address issues related to mental health in collaboration with mental health professionals, such as social workers and other community partners.
CLINICAL, SUBCLINICAL FEATURES AND THE RISK FACTORS OF GESTATIONAL TROPHOBLASTIC NEOPLASIA AT HUE CENTRAL HOSPITAL
Authors: Ngo Thi Minh Thao , Vo Hoang Lam , Dang Van Tan , Le Lam Huong
Published: May 2021

Aim: To determine clinical and subclinical features and the risk factors of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia at Hue Central Hospital.

Medthods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 01/2018 -12/2019 in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Deparment of Hue Central Hospital. This study included 54 women who were diagnosed gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (FIGO 2002) and 54 molar pregnancy women monitored and treated in a stable condition.

Results: In gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) group, age group with women who were ≥ 40 was 4.5 times higher at risk factors of GTN (p < 0.05), the history of stillbirth had 5.2 times higher at risk (p < 0.05). History of molar pregnancy accounted for 20.4% with OR = 4.3 (95% CI = 1.2 - 16.3). The risk in the number of births ≥ 3 was 5.1 times higher (p < 0.05). The rate of toxemia in GTN group was 66.7% with OR = 8.6; 95%CI =3.3-21.4 (p < 0.05). The women with hyperthyroidism were 3.1 times higher at risk of GTN. The risk of bilateral theca-lutein cyst in GTN group was 12.6 times more than that of control group. The percentage of beta hCG level > 100.000 mUI/ml before treatment in GTN group was 75.9% with 6.8 times higher at risk of GTN (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: A history of molar pregnancy, birth multiple times,a history of stillbirth, presence of hyperthyroidism, the bilateral theca-lutein cyst > 4 weeks, the percentage of beta hCG level > 100.000 mUI/ml before treatment, are risk factors found to be associated with the gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

Key words: Molar pregnancy, gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, risk factors
РОЛЬ І ФУНКЦІЇ ДЕРЖАВИ У ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЇ СОЦІАЛЬНО-ЕКОНОМІЧНИХ СИСТЕМ
Authors: Stativka N. , Bubliy M.
Published: May 2021

У статті досліджено роль і функції держави у трансформації соціально-економічних систем. Доведено, що процес трансформації соціально-економічної системи відбувається під впливом як ринкової тенденції до рівноваги, так і державної політики: держава виступає суб’єктом трансформаційних перетворень. Регулююча роль держави у трансформації соціально-економічної системи полягає у здійсненні необхідних реформ, інституційних змін, у сприянні розвитку вітчизняної економіки на тлі протидії негативним наслідкам глобалізації. Держава, впливаючи на напрями трансформації соціально-економічної системи, формує систему пріоритетів розвитку відповідно до цілей бізнесу та інтересів соціуму, а також обмежень, які висуває національна і світова система господарювання.
ПЕРЕРОЗПОДІЛ ФУНКЦІЙ ТА ПОВНОВАЖЕНЬ МІЖ МІСЦЕВИМ ТА СУБРЕГІОНАЛЬНИМ РІВНЯМИ ВЛАДИ ПРИ УТВОРЕННІ УКРУПНЕНИХ РАЙОНІВ
Authors: Нестеренко В.В.  , Nesterenko V.V.
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто питання ефективності розподілу функцій і повноважень між суб’єктамивлади субрегіонального та базового рівня в умовах децентралізації, реформи місцевогосамоврядування та територіальної організації влади в Україні. Проаналізовано діяльністьорганів виконавчої влади та місцевого самоврядування базового й районного рівнів на при-кладі роботи Коломацької селищної ради, Коломацької районної ради та Коломацької ра-йонної державної адміністрації Харківської області щодо практики втілення децентралізаціїпротягом 2017–2020 рр. Зроблено висновок, що більшість повноважень та функцій, які до ре-форми знаходилися на субрегіональному рівні, доцільно передати на базовий рівень адмі-ністративно-територіальний устрою (рівень громад), а на субрегіональному рівні залишитивиключно повноваження державної влади для забезпечення надзору за законністю рішень,прийнятих ОМС базового рівня, та юридичного супроводу їх діяльності, координації роботитериторіальних підрозділів ЦОВВ.
ВИКОРИСТАННЯ НОВІТНІХ ІНСТРУМЕНТІВ КОМУНІКАЦІЇ ОРГАНІВ ВЛАДИ І ГРОМАДСЬКОСТІ
Authors: Lopatchenko I.S
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто важливість комунікації органів влади і громадськості, як елемент розвиткуУкраїни як правової, демократичної і соціальної держави. Проаналізовано сучасний стан за-конодавчого регулювання комунікативних процесів органів влади і громадськості. З’ясованоосновні типи, цінності, принципи та інструменти комунікації органів влади і громадськості.Встановлено, величезний потенціал використання новітніх інструментів комунікації органіввлади і громадськості, а також його вплив на покращення якості публічного управління вУкраїні й значного прогресу у розрізі надання якісних державних послуг громадянам.
АКТУАЛІЗАЦІЯ ПУБЛІЧНО-УПРАВЛІНСЬКОЇ ПРОБЛЕМАТИКИ В ЕКОЛОГІЧНІЙ СФЕРІ: СВІТОВИЙ ТА ВІТЧИЗНЯНИЙ ВИМІРИ
Authors: Holynska O.V.  , Bieloshapka T.V.
Published: May 2021

Проаналізовано наукові публікації, де розкрито важливість публічного управління вгалузі охорони навколишнього природного середовища. Розглянуто законодавчу базу тапраці науковців, в яких досліджено сучасний стан публічного управління в галузі охоронинавколишнього природного середовища. Підкреслено необхідність екологізації публічногоадміністрування та виділено важливі її напрями як на регіональному, так і місцевому рівнях.Наголошено на актуальності формування екологічної свідомості суспільства як передумовидля подальшого сталого розвитку територій та держави.
ІНТЕГРАЦІЯ НОВОЇ МОДЕЛІ СОЦІАЛЬНОГО ЗАХИСТУ НАСЕЛЕННЯ НА РІВНІ ГРОМАД
Authors: Davtian S.G.  , Yelchiieva O.R.
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто сучасний стан надання соціальних послуг населенню, питання створен-ня та інтеграції нової моделі соціального захисту населення на рівні громад. Дослідженоосновні напрями інтегрованої моделі системи соціального захисту населення: інтеграціяврядування, інтеграція стратегій, інтеграція процесів. Проаналізовані зміни в системно-організаційних зв’язках існуючої моделі надання соціальних послуг та розглянуто механізмивзаємодії між суб’єктами нової моделі надання соціальних послуг в територіальній громаді.
Кібербезпека як один з пріоритетів національної політики
Authors: Dziundziuk V. B.  , Kotukh Ye. V.
Published: May 2021

У статті виокремлено базові складові політики у сфері кібербезпеки в Україні, сформульовано низку пропозицій для підвищення ефективності стратегій і політики кібербезпеки, запропоновано низку принципів, на яких має ґрунтуватися політика кібербезпеки в Україні.
Особливості запровадження організаційно-фасилітативного механізму при залученні громадян до електоральної комунікації
Authors: Mykhailov M. O.
Published: May 2021

Потужним чинником демократизації електорального процесу є активні дії громадськості, спрямовані на моніторинг і контроль відповідності виборчого процесу вимогам законодавства. Розвиток інформаційного суспільства уможливлює ситуацію, коли виборчий процес протікає під щільним контролем громадянського суспільства. У статті акцентовано увагу на підвищенні ефективності публічного управління виборчим процесом шляхом успішного поєднання професійності спеціалістів-управлінців і високого рівня компетентності громадськості щодо контролю за виборчим процесом.

Громадянське суспільство постає реальним суб’єктом впливу на електоральні процеси в Україні. Завдяки вмілому й креативному використанню новітніх інформаційно-комунікаційних технологій виборчі перегони останніх років дали старт Інтернет-проєктам, зробили вибори більш прозорими та відкритими, й звузили поле для відвертих маніпуляцій і фальсифікацій виборів.

У статті розкрито особливості організаційних та фасилітативних механізмів забезпечення участі інститутів громадського суспільства в електоральній комунікації, які спрямовані на збір інформації щодо порушень виборчого законодавства. Функціонування цих ініціатив можливе завдяки поширенню дієвих інструментів громадського моніторингу та контролінгу виборчого процесу.

Охарактеризовано електоральні комунікації, які сьогодні активно здійснюються завдяки інноваційному розвитку інформаційно-комунікаційним технологіям, серед яких – електронні та цифрові ресурси, розглянуто особливості запровадження організаційного та фасилітативного механізмів у забезпеченні участі громадськості до електоральної комунікації.
Тенденції розвитку лідерства в західноєвропейських країнах: досвід для України
Authors: Storozhev R. I.
Published: May 2021

На сучасному етапі інтеграції Української держави до європейської спільноти перед вітчизняними лідерами постають нові завдання, які вимагають підвищення ефективності публічного управління та публічного адміністрування на засадах демократизму, людиноцентризму.

Актуальність теми розвитку публічного лідерства в Україні тісно пов’язана з вивченням досвіду зарубіжних країн щодо механізмів формування та розвитку публічного лідерства, що характеризується високим рівнем моральних цінностей, відповідальністю, комунікативністю, скромністю. Нова управлінська парадигма, яка впроваджується в публічне управління та публічне адміністрування України також вимагає впровадження нових якостей публічного лідерства, які проявляються через утвердження моральних цінностей в особистості лідера, його моделей поведінки в реформуванні публічної служби. На нашу думку, такі якості лідерства, як делегування повноважень у органах публічної влади, міжгалузеве співробітництво в публічному управлінні зумовлюють розвиток лідерства у контексті освітніх тенденцій зарубіжних країн.

Сьогодні важливим аспектом у розвитку публічного лідерства є мобілізаційний аспект зусиль усіх керівників і підлеглих публічної влади та лідерів інститутів громадянського суспільства для подолання кризових явищ та проведення складних реформ в публічному управлінні. До таких кризових явищ належить забезпечення стабільності в умовах всесвітньої боротьби з пандемією GOVID-19. Однак проблема розвитку публічного лідерства у цьому аспекті не знайшла належного відображення у сучасних наукових джерелах.

У статті розкрито пріоритетні моделі публічного лідерства західноєвропейських країн як передумову формування успішної особистості, успішних лідерських якостей, тенденцією якого є такий важливий чинник як публічність, оскільки до 90-х років ХХ ст. далеко не всі державні управлінці європейських країн були публічними.
Державна політика в галузі енергоефективності та енергозбереження як стратегічний напрямок розвитку України
Authors: Ulianchenko Y. O.
Published: May 2021

Енергозбереження є частиною загальної політики держави з ресурсозбереження, яка в умовах ринкової економіки спрямована на раціональне та економне використання мінерально-сировинних ресурсів з метою досягнення сталого розвитку національної економіки. Останнім часом енергозбереження та енергоефективність стають одними з стратегічних напрямків розвитку національної економіки. Доведено необхідність застосування відповідних механізмів та інструментів реалізації державної політики в цій галузі. Викладено основні заходи з енергозбереження в різних галузях національної економіки. Здійснено аналіз моделей державної політики енергозбереження в зарубіжних країнах. Визначено проблеми формування та виконання державних програм у цій сфері та охарактеризовано напрями їх вирішення в Україні. Розглянуто питання створення правого, організаційного, економічного забезпечення формування державної політики з енергозбереження.
Вдосконалення організаційної компетентності посадових осіб місцевого самоврядування в умовах децентралізації владних повноважень в Україні
Authors: Dzeha V. D.
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто організаційну компетентність посадових осіб місцевого самоврядування як здатність до лідерства та здійснення ефективної комунікації й вирішення міжособистісних конфліктів у колективі, застосування знань і вмінь щодо прийняття управлінських рішень у межах своєї компетенції, навичок та досвіду збору й аналізу інформації із застосуванням сучасних комп’ютерних й інформаційних технологій.

Запропоновано напрями вдосконалення організаційної компетентності посадових осіб місцевого самоврядування в умовах децентралізації владних повноважень шляхом розвитку чинного законодавства України у сфері місцевого самоврядування та запровадження нових знань з публічного управління та адміністрування, зокрема основ менеджеризму, для прискорення й якісної реалізації процесів реформування місцевого самоврядування.
Дієвість правових механізмів гарантування місцевого самоврядування
Authors: Pavlov Ye. O.
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто питання дієвості правових механізмів гарантування місцевого самоврядування, в тому числі юридичних осіб, що наділяються повноваженнями, в межах яких діють самостійно і несуть відповідальність за свою діяльність. Проаналізовано окремі повноваження органів виконавчої влади, що надані органам місцевого самоврядування чинним законодавством, у здійсненні яких вони є підконтрольними відповідними органами виконавчої влади.