bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Training “Boda-boda” Riders on Community-Based Referrals for Maternal Outcome: A Case of Busoga Region, Uganda
Authors: Kharim Mwebaza Muluya , John Francis Mugisha , Peter Kithuka , Kenneth Rucha Kibaara , David Gangu Muwanguzi , George Ochieng Otieno , Andre Yitambe
Published: July 2021

Many pregnant mothers miss antenatal care attendance and health facility deliveries despite several interventions either due to knowledge gap on the benefits or lack of transport means to reach the health centre. Therefore, training of “boda-boda” (motor-cycle) riders in Busoga Region in Uganda was conducted to determine its effect on health facility-based deliveries. The study was a non-randomized control trial with intervention and control groups from selected health centers and communities in Busoga Region. Interventions included the training of boda-boda riders for 5 days to give them knowledge; with a six months follow-up to determine the impact of training. Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Descriptive statistical analysis was computed for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings revealed improved knowledge of boda-boda riders on maternal referrals from 49.1% to 79.0% in the intervention arm compared to 43.8% to 45.2% in the control arm. Use of boda-boda transport by mothers improved from 0% to 70.5% in the intervention arm compared to only 0% to 51.2% in the control arm. Also, of the 70.5% of the mothers who used boda-boda transport, 69.4% were transported by trained boda-boda riders and only 30.6% by un-trained boda-boda riders. Apart from age (p=0.000; CI=2.785 – 53.284) and ownership of the motorcycle (p=0.002; CI=0.992 – 8.658), the rest of the socio-demographic determinants of health facility-based deliveries were not statistically significant. Age of boda-boda riders (25–34 years, p=0.000) and ownership of the play a pivotal role in the improvement of health facility-based deliveries. Training of boda-boda riders and other key stakeholders impacted on the community based maternal referrals in the study area.
Endometrial HOXA10 mRNA Expression in PCOS Patients at High Risk for Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Authors: Yurci Arzu , Ersahin Suphan
Published: July 2021

Background: This study was designed to determine whether the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) contributes to the subfertility in PCOS. Endometrial HOXA-10 mRNA expression, a well-characterized gene essential to endometrial receptivity, was evaluated in PCOS patients whose embryos are planned to be frozen due to the risk of OHSSS. Methods: Twent-five women with PCOS in high risk group for OHSS and age and BMI matched 25 non-PCOS infertile patients were included the study. Five fertile women were accepted as positive control. Following egg collection each group of subject underwent total embryo freezing. After the egg collection, endometrial sampling was performed with a pipella cannula from each gruop of participant and fertile control. Expression levels of HOXA-10 mRNA were determined by RT-PCR. Gene expression results are presented as Ct (cycle threshold), ΔCt, and ΔΔCt. Reults: Average ΔCt value of HOXA-10 mRNA in PCOS, non-PCOS and fertile groups were found to 5.88, 6.77, and 7.79 respectively. Compared to endometrial HOXA-10 mRNA levels of fertile cases, the HOXA-10 mRNA levels of the patients in the PCOS group were found to be significantly lower (ΔCt 7.79 vs. ΔCt 5.88, p<0.002). Similarly, endometrial HOXA-10 mRNA levels in the non-PCOS control group were significantly lower than the HOXA-10 mRNA levels in the fertile group (ΔCt 6.77 vs. ΔCt 7.79, p<0.001). HOXA-10 mRNA levels in endometrial samples taken from patients in the PCOS group were found to be significantly lower than the HOXA-10 mRNA levels in non-PCOS control group. Conclusions: HOXA-10 mRNA levels were found to be lower in PCOS patients with high risk for OHSS compared to both fertile and infertile patients without PCOS. OHSS risk in PCOS decreases endometrial HOXA-10 mRNA expression.
Nota sobre la conformidad a derecho del acuerdo adoptado por la Mesa del Senado en su reunión del día 17 de marzo de 2020, relativo a la limitación de la convocatoria de sesiones del Pleno y de las comisiones del Senado durante el Estado de Alarma
Authors: Del Senado Secretaría General
Published: July 2021

Nota sobre la conformidad a derecho del Acuerdo adoptado por la Mesa del Senado en su reunión del día 17 de marzo de 2020, relativo a la limitación de la convocatoria de sesiones del Pleno y de las comisiones del Senado durante el Estado de Alarma.
The Effects of Interpersonal Stress and Resilience on Adjustment to College Life of Students Participating in Residential College(RC) Program
Authors:   Dept. of Police Administration, Kyung Woon University, Associate professor, Do Jae-Hyun , Kim Sae-Joung ,   Dept. of Sport For All, Kyung Woon University, Assistant professor, Park Min-Kyoung ,   Dept. of Dental Hygiene, Kyung Woon University, Assistant professor
Published: July 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of college life adaptation, stress and resilience on RC program participants.,The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the expansion of exchanges between students through various RC operations on university life. Methods: The collected data were analyzed by correlation analysis for the relationship between college life adaptation and interpersonal stress resilience.(SPSS ver. 23.0, p<0.05). In order to examine the differences between the students who participated in the program and the students who did not participate in the RC program conducted in the dormitory, the study conducted interpersonal stress, university life adaptation test, and resilience test. Results: The results of this study were conducted on the students who participated in the RC program operated by the university, and the importance of interpersonal relations was confirmed in the adaptation to college life. Stable interpersonal relationships can increase adaptability to college life. Conclusions: Through this study, it is expected that stable college life will be maintained through positive activities with various people.
Dental Hygiene Students’ Knowledge of and Attitudes and Behavior toward the Elderly
Authors:   Institute of Basic Science for Well-Aging, Youngsan University, Senior researcher, Lee Hye-Jin , Lee Hye-Jin ,   Dept. of Dental Hygiene, Howon University, Associate professor
Published: July 2021

Objectives: This study examines dental hygiene students’ knowledge of and attitudes and behavior toward elderly individuals. As the population of elderly people increases, the need for dental services for this group increases as well. Methods: A frequency analysis, correlation analysis, and one-way ANOVA were conducted using SPSS 25.0. Results: Participants had various levels of knowledge and differing attitudes and behavior toward elderly patients; subjects who were interested in older people had more positive attitudes toward the elderly, as did younger, less experienced participants and those who work with older people. Conclusions: Future studies should use additional measurement tools and include different groups of participants to improve understanding of dental hygiene students’ attitudes towards the elderly.
Osmanlı Devleti'nde Ruhsatsız Kitap Basımı ve Telif Hakkı İhlali Suçları
Authors: SÜMBÜL Sinan
Published: July 2021

Bu makalede, güncel sorunlardan biri olan telif hakkı ihlallerinin, Osmanlı Devleti’ndeki tarihi örnekleri incelenmiştir. Makalede amaç, telif hakkı sorununu arşiv belgeleri üzerinden inceleyerek konunun tarihi seyrini ortaya çıkarmak ve telif hakkı ihlallerinin çözümü konusunda yapılan uygulamaları değerlendirmektir. Üretilen bir eser üzerinde onu üretenin sahip olduğu hakları ifade eden telif hakları kavramı, yazının icadı ile ortaya çıkmıştır. Ancak matbaanın icadı, ruhsatsız kitap basımına imkân vererek telif hakkı ihlallerinin yaşanmasında önemli bir rol oynamıştır. Bu bakımdan konuyla ilgili birincil kaynaklar olan arşiv belgelerinde ruhsatsız kitap basımına ilişkin örnekler incelenmiştir. Çalışmada, arşiv belgeleri üzerinden yapılacak değerlendirmelerin Osmanlı Devleti’nde telif hakkı ihlalleri konusunda yeni bilgiler ortaya çıkaracağı ve yeni bakış açılarının geliştirilmesine katkı sağlayacağı hipotezi benimsenmiştir. Makale hazırlanırken, tarihsel yöntem ile belgesel tarama tekniği kullanılmıştır. Arşiv belgeleri üzerinde yapılan inceleme sonucunda, Osmanlı Devleti’nde ruhsatsız kitap basımının ve telif hakkı ihlallerinin sıklıkla yaşandığı ortaya çıkarılmıştır.
Türkiye’de Halk Kütüphanesi Yönetim ve Hizmet Yapısının Yenilikçi Örgüt Kültürü Açısından Değerlendirilmesi ve Yenilikçi Örgüt Kültürü Stratejisi ve Eylem Planı Önerisi
Authors: ALACA Erdinç , YILMAZ Bülent
Published: July 2021

Bu araştırmanın temel amacı, Türkiye’deki il halk kütüphanelerinin mevcut örgüt kültürü yapısını değerlendirerek, yenilikçi yönetim ve hizmet yapısına sahip olunamamasının nedenlerini belirlemek ve bu durumun yenilikçi örgüt kültürü ile ilişkisini ortaya koymaktır. Ayrıca, çalışma bulgularına dayanarak Türkiye için ulusal nitelikte yenilikçi örgüt kültürü strateji eylem planı önerisi geliştirmek de amaçlanmaktadır. Araştırma, Türkiye’deki il halk kütüphanelerinde görev yapan ve Bilgi ve Belge Yönetimi Bölümü mezunu toplam 323 yönetici ve kütüphaneciyi ve Kütüphaneler ve Yayımlar Genel Müdürlüğü’nde yönetici statüsünde görev yapan yedi yöneticiyi kapsamaktadır. Araştırma örneklemi olasılığa dayalı tabakalı örneklem yöntemine göre basit rastgele biçimde belirlenen 182 katılımcıdan oluşmaktadır. Araştırma betimleme yöntemi ile gerçekleştirilmiş, veriler anket ve yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme tekniği ile elde edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda, kütüphanecilerin il halk kütüphanelerinin mevcut yönetim ve hizmet geliştirme yaklaşımlarından memnun olmadıkları, mevcut durumda hiyerarşi kültürünün baskın olduğu ve onun yerine adokrasi/yaratıcı kültürün hedeflendiği/uygun görüldüğü ortaya çıkarılmıştır. Çalışmada, ayrıca kültürel bir değişimin gerektiği de anlaşılmış olup, bu değişim sürecine temel oluşturabilecek yenilikçi örgüt kültürü stratejisi ve eylem planı önerisi sunulmuştur.
Experience of EU countries on ethical aspects of patenting biotechnologies in the field of medicine and pharmacy
Authors: Ponomarova Olena
Published: July 2021

Keywords: patenting, ethics, biotechnological inventions, medicine, pharmaceuticals,health

The progress ofmodern biotechnological achievements poses new ethical and social challenges to society.Research using biotechnology in medicine and pharmacy leads to more in-depthknowledge of diseases. With the help of biotechnology, it becomes possible to treatpreviously incurable diseases. It is worth noting that today with the possibility ofusing biotechnological developments, the scientific community in a very short timewas able to successfully invent vaccines against COVID-19.During clinical trials, the safety of study subjects should be unneglected for therapid introduction of the product to the market. Ethics and innovation in modern societyalways go hand in hand, especially in the field of health care. The worldwidespread of COVID-19 underscores the importance of maintaining a balance betweenethics and intellectual property rights when human lives are in mortal danger.Society is concerned about the ethics of patenting life, namely, the possibility ofpatenting genes, cell lines and human tissues. The Directive states that the humanbody cannot be invented at certain stages of its formation and development, includinggerm cells, as well as the simple discovery of one of its components, including the sequenceor partial sequence of a gene.Patents that relate to the human gene are particularly critically examined ethically.Ethics, morality, and law are interrelated components and are extremely importantfor society to accept the invention. EU patent law is based on ethical principles. Thus, theadoption of the Directive was envisaged for the development of the EU economy, the abilityto regulate controversial issues regarding the patenting of biotechnological inventionsby criteria of ethics and morality and to harmonize EU legislation.Owners who run biotechnology institutions (organizations) must protect the results ofresearch, and obtaining patents is the most effective way. After all, long-term researchand development of new products or processes require significant financial costs. The intellectualproperty product must be protected by a patent, including biotechnological inventions.
Issues of the protection of intellectual property in process euro-atlantic integration
Authors: Zaikivskyi Oleksandr , Onistrat Oleksandr
Published: July 2021

Key words: Euro-Atlantic integration, intellectual property, objects of intellectualproperty rights, infringement of intellectual property rights, scientific and technical cooperation,military-technical cooperation

Some issues concerning the protection of intellectualproperty in the process of Euro-Atlantic integration are considered, in particularthe peculiarities of the protection of intellectual property in the implementation of internationalcooperation of Ukraine and the protection of national interests in theprocess of this cooperation. The legislation of Ukraine regulating activities related tointernational scientific and technical and military-technical cooperation is analysed.The importance of intellectual property protection at all stages of international cooperationof Ukraine and the need to improve the legislation on the regulation of intellectualproperty protection in the process of this cooperation is determined. It is suggested totake a number of measures to address issues related to the protection of intellectualproperty in the process of international cooperation of Ukraine and the protection of nationalinterests regarding the use of intellectual property rights in the process of thiscooperation.The protection of intellectual property in international cooperation should be ensuredprimarily by bilateral agreements on this issue, which should be concluded at thebeginning of cooperation in any field, as well as agreements on the protection of classifiedinformation. These agreements should define the basic principles for concludingagreements (contracts) and be aimed at mutual protection of information, prevention ofinfringement of the rights for the results of intellectual activity when using them in thecourse of cooperation.To deal with this issue, it is necessary to systematically and comprehensively approachthe improvement of legislation on intellectual property in the defence sector, especially on the protection of national interests in the implementation of cooperation inthe process of Euro-Atlantic integration. It is necessary to clearly define in the legislationthe obligations of all subjects to ensure the protection of intellectual property at allstages of cooperation, as well as expanding the list of violations and responsibility fortheir implementation, especially for actions that threaten infringement of intellectualproperty rights measures to ensure the protection of intellectual property rights.
The Neolithic Revolution : agriculture, sedentary lifestyle and its consequences
Authors: Martin-Merino Mario
Published: July 2021

The adoption of agriculture in the Neolithic was one of the most important events in human history. The appearance and subsequent expansion of agriculture in different areas of the planet took place approximately 10,000 to 5,000 years ago. Before that, humans used hunter-gatherer techniques to procure their livelihood. The transition to agriculture, which later led to the emergence and development of the first urban civilizations, allowed to obtain an unimaginable wealth and material prosperity for the Neolithic hunter-gatherer populations, which has caused this process to have been called the “Neolithic Revolution”. However, not all were advantages. In some cases, the adoption of agriculture and a sedentary way of life had consequences whose effects are being felt today.
The Cultural Trade Index: An Introduction
Authors: Kabanda Patrick
Published: July 2021

The Cultural Trade Index aims to shed light on cultural trade and stimulate interest in how this little-known area can contribute to economic diversification, boost shared prosperity, and reduce extreme poverty. As the first index of its kind, the Cultural Trade Index would gather cultural trade data scattered across different sources, place them in one place, and show how countries are performing. The key objective is to help inform decision making to advance cultural trade for development. Since culture is not restricted to monetary gain, a Cultural Exchange Index could also be created to complement the Cultural Trade Index. The Cultural Exchange Index would rank countries according to their participation in international cultural exchanges. Comprehensive research efforts would be needed for these ideas to make meaningful contributions to cultural trade and development policy.
Creative Trade for Human Development
Authors: Kabanda Patrick
Published: July 2021

In recent years, international trade in creative goods and services has been expanding. But this upward march is not lifting all boats. Although many developing countries are endowed with vast cultural wealth, they still lag behind. In addition, women are not faring well. Much needs to be done to expand creative trade for human development. Suggestions here include implementing a Women Artisan Trade Initiative, creating a cultural trade index, developing appropriate intellectual property initiatives, and considering creative trade in economic diversification strategies.
Comments on the article Population characteristics of colorectal cancer in the Ulyanovsk region according to the regional cancer register
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: July 2021

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Laser coagulation in combination with LIFT for transsphincteric anal fistulas
Authors: Vasiliev S. V. , Nedozimovanyi A. I. , Popov D. E. , Gor I. V. , Moshkova T. A.
Published: July 2021

Aim: to improve the results of fistula treatment, to evaluate the effectiveness of the combined use of LIFT and FiLaC techniques.

Patients and methods: the study included 35 patients with transsphincter fistulas of cryptopglandular etiology involved more than 1/3 of the sphincter. All patients underwent surgery with laser energy (the laser conductor speed is 1 mm per second, the wavelength is 1470 nm, the radiation output is 13 W) after the LIFT procedure.

Results: the primary healing rate was 28/35 (80,0%). The patients who failed the combined procedure (cases of prolonged healing more than 3 months) underwent a second procedure ReFiLaC, which led to the closure of fistula in 2 of 3 patients. A median follow-up period was 10,2 months. No incontinence to solid and liquid stools was detected.

Conclusion: preliminary results of the study permits to assess the potential of the combined low-invasive approach for anal fistulas as positive.
Immunonutrition for Pediatric Patients With Cow's Milk Allergy: How Early Interventions Could Impact Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Carucci Laura , Coppola Serena , Luzzetti Anna , Voto Luana , Giglio Veronica , Paparo Lorella , Nocerino Rita , Berni Canani Roberto
Published: July 2021

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common food allergies and one of the main causes of food-induced anaphylaxis in the pediatric age. Moreover, up to 45% of CMA children develop other atopic manifestations later in life, a phenomenon commonly named atopic march. Thus, CMA imposes a significant cost to health care systems as well as to families, and has emerged as one of the most expensive allergic diseases. The immunonutrition strategy builds its foundation on the ability of selected dietary factors to modulate immune system development and function. Recent studies highlighted the potential of immunonutrition in the management of CMA. This review is focused on the mechanisms and long-term clinical outcomes of the immunonutrition approach in children with CMA.
Supervised Learning Using Homology Stable Rank Kernels
Authors: Agerberg Jens , Ramanujam Ryan , Scolamiero Martina , Chachólski Wojciech
Published: July 2021

Exciting recent developments in Topological Data Analysis have aimed at combining homology-based invariants with Machine Learning. In this article, we use hierarchical stabilization to bridge between persistence and kernel-based methods by introducing the so-called stable rank kernels. A fundamental property of the stable rank kernels is that they depend on metrics to compare persistence modules. We illustrate their use on artificial and real-world datasets and show that by varying the metric we can improve accuracy in classification tasks.
Age-Dependent Regulation of Notch Family Members in the Neuronal Stem Cell Niches of the Short-Lived Killifish Nothobranchius furzeri
Authors: Bagnoli Sara , Terzibasi Tozzini Eva
Published: July 2021

Background:The annual killifishNothobranchius furzeriis a new experimental model organism in biology, since it represents the vertebrate species with the shortest captive life span and also shows the fastest maturation and senescence recorded in the laboratory. Here, we use this model to investigate the age-dependent decay of neurogenesis in the telencephalon (brain region sharing the same embryonic origin with the mammalian adult niches), focusing on the expression of the Notch pathway genes.

Results:We observed that the major ligands/receptors of the pathway showed a negative correlation with age, indicating age-dependent downregulation of the Notch pathway. Moreover, expression ofnotch1awas clearly limited to active neurogenic niches and declined during aging, without changing its regional patterning. Expression ofnotch3is not visibly influenced by aging.

Conclusion:Both expression pattern and regulation differ betweennotch1aandnotch3, with the former being limited to mitotically active regions and reduced by aging and the latter being present in all cells with a neurogenic potential, regardless of the level of their actual mitotic activity, and so is less influenced by age. This finally suggests a possible differential role of the two receptors in the regulation of the niche proliferative potential throughout the entire fish life.
A Composite Lactide-Mineral 3D-Printed Scaffold for Bone Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Fairag Rayan , Li Li , Ramirez-GarciaLuna Jose Luis , Taylor M. Scott , Gaerke Brian , Weber Michael H. , Rosenzweig Derek H. , Haglund Lisbet
Published: July 2021

Orthopedic tumor resection, trauma, or degenerative disease surgeries can result in large bone defects and often require bone grafting. However, standard autologous bone grafting has been associated with donor site morbidity and/or limited quantity. As an alternate, allografts with or without metallic or polyether-etherketone have been used as grafting substitutes. However, these may have drawbacks as well, including stress shielding, pseudarthrosis, disease-transmission, and infection. There is therefore a need for alternative bone substitutes, such as the use of mechanically compliant three-dimensional (3D)-printed scaffolds. Several off-the-shelf materials are available for low-cost fused deposition 3D printing such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL). We have previously described the feasibility of 3D-printed PLA scaffolds to support cell activity and extracellular matrix deposition. In this study, we investigate two medical-grade filaments consistent with specifications found in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard for semi-crystalline polylactide polymers for surgical implants, a pure polymer (100M) and a copolymeric material (7415) for their cytocompatibility and suitability in bone tissue engineering. Moreover, we assessed the impact on osteo-inductive properties with the addition of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) minerals and assessed their mechanical properties. 100M and 7415 scaffolds with the additive β-TCP demonstrated superior mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiation detectedviaincreased alkaline phosphatase activity (6-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively) and mineralized matrix deposition (14-fold and 5-fold, respectively)in vitro. Furthermore, we evaluatedin vivocompatibility, biosafety and bone repair potential in a rat femur window defect model. 100M+β-TCPimplants displayed a positive biosafety profile and showed significantly enhanced new bone formation compared to 100M implants evidenced by μCT (39 versus 25% bone volume/tissue volume ratio) and histological analysis 6 weeks post-implantation. These scaffolds are encouraging composite biomaterials for repairing bone applications with a great potential for clinical translation. Further analyses are required with appropriate evaluation in a larger critical-sized defect animal model with long-term follow-up.
ER-Phagy: A New Regulator of ER Homeostasis
Authors: Yang Ming , Luo Shilu , Wang Xi , Li Chenrui , Yang Jinfei , Zhu Xuejing , Xiao Li , Sun Lin
Published: July 2021

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is one of the most important cellular organelles and is essential for cell homeostasis. Upon external stimulation, ER stress induces the unfolded protein response (UPR) and ER-associated degradation (ERAD) to maintain ER homeostasis. However, persistent ER stress can lead to cell damage. ER-phagy is a selective form of autophagy that ensures the timely removal of damaged ER, thereby protecting cells from damage caused by excessive ER stress. As ER-phagy is a newly identified form of autophagy, many receptor-mediated ER-phagy pathways have been discovered in recent years. In this review, we summarize our understanding of the maintenance of ER homeostasis and describe the receptors identified to date. Finally, the relationships between ER-phagy and diseases are also discussed.
Stress Hormones: Emerging Targets in Gynecological Cancers
Authors: Chen Guoqiang , Qiu Lei , Gao Jinghai , Wang Jing , Dang Jianhong , Li Lingling , Jin Zhijun , Liu Xiaojun
Published: July 2021

In the past decade, several discoveries have documented the existence of innervation in ovarian cancer and cervical cancer. Notably, various neurotransmitters released by the activation of the sympathetic nervous system can promote the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells and regulate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, a better understanding of the mechanisms involving neurotransmitters in the occurrence and development of gynecological cancers will be beneficial for exploring the feasibility of using inexpensive β-blockers and dopamine agonists in the clinical treatment of gynecological cancers. Additionally, this article provides some new insights into targeting tumor innervation and neurotransmitters in the tumor microenvironment.
LncRNA NORAD Promotes Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury and Atherosclerosis Through Suppressing VEGF Gene Transcription via Enhancing H3K9 Deacetylation by Recruiting HDAC6
Authors: Kai Huihua , Wu Qiyong , Yin Ruohan , Tang Xiaoqiang , Shi Haifeng , Wang Tao , Zhang Ming , Pan Changjie
Published: July 2021

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and the leading cause of mortality globally. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in CAD development. To date, the effect of lncRNA non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) on atherosclerosis in CAD remains unclear. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lncRNA NORAD on vascular endothelial cell injury and atherosclerosis. Here, ox-LDL-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and high-fat-diet (HFD)-fed ApoE–/– mice were utilized as in vitro and in vivo models. The present study found that lncRNA NORAD expression was increased in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs and thoracic aorta of atherosclerotic mice, and knockdown of lncRNA NORAD alleviated vascular endothelial cell injury and atherosclerosis development in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of lncRNA NORAD aggravated ox-LDL-reduced or atherosclerosis-decreased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in HUVECs and thoracic aorta of mice to ameliorate vascular endothelial cell injury and atherosclerosis development. Moreover, nucleus lncRNA NORAD suppressed VEGF gene transcription through enhancing H3K9 deacetylation via recruiting HDAC6 to the VEGF gene promoter in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs. In addition, VEGF reduced FUS (FUS RNA binding protein) expression by a negative feedback regulation in HUVECs. In summary, lncRNA NORAD enhanced vascular endothelial cell injury and atherosclerosis through suppressing VEGF gene transcription via enhancing H3K9 deacetylation by recruiting HDAC6. The findings could facilitate discovering novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for CAD.
Ferroptosis and Its Potential Role in Metabolic Diseases: A Curse or Revitalization?
Authors: Duan Jia-Yue , Lin Xiao , Xu Feng , Shan Su-Kang , Guo Bei , Li Fu-Xing-Zi , Wang Yi , Zheng Ming-Hui , Xu Qiu-Shuang , Lei Li-Min , Ou-Yang Wen-Lu , Wu Yun-Yun , Tang Ke-Xin , Yuan Ling-Qing
Published: July 2021

Ferroptosis is classified as an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death (RCD) attributed to the accumulation of lipid hydroperoxides and redox imbalance. In recent years, accumulating researches have suggested that ferroptosis may play a vital role in the development of diverse metabolic diseases, for example, diabetes and its complications (e.g., diabetic nephropathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and atherosclerosis [AS]), metabolic bone disease and adrenal injury. However, the specific physiopathological mechanism and precise therapeutic effect is still not clear. In this review, we summarized recent advances about the development of ferroptosis, focused on its potential character as the therapeutic target in metabolic diseases, and put forward our insights on this topic, largely to offer some help to forecast further directions.
Emerging Exosomes and Exosomal MiRNAs in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Feng Jia , Zhang Yifan , Zhu Zhihan , Gu Chenyang , Waqas Ahmed , Chen Lukui
Published: July 2021

Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious traumatic event to the spinal cord with considerable morbidity and mortality. This injury leads to short- and long-term variations in the spinal cord, and can have a serious effect on the patient’s sensory, motor, or autonomic functions. Due to the complicated pathological process of SCI, there is currently no successful clinical treatment strategy. Exosomes, extracellular vesicles (EVs) with a double-layer membrane structure of 30–150 nm diameter, have recently been considered as critical mediators for communication between cells and tissues by transferring proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Further studies verified that exosomes participate in the pathophysiological process of several diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, and could have a significant impact in their treatment. As natural carriers of biologically active cargos, exosomes have emerged as pathological mediators of SCI. In this review article, we critically discuss the functions of exosomes as intracellular mediators and potential treatments in SCI and provide an outlook on future research.
Advanced Inorganic Nitride Nanomaterials for Renewable Energy: A Mini Review of Synthesis Methods
Authors: Ma Yin , Xiong Lijun , Lu Yao , Zhu Wenqiang , Zhao Haihong , Yang Yahui , Mao Liqiu , Yang Lishan
Published: July 2021

Inorganic nitride nanomaterials have attracted widespread attention for applications in renewable energy due to novel electrochemical activities and high chemical stabilities. For different renewable energy applications, there are many possibilities and uncertainties about the optimal nitride phases and nanostructures, which further promotes the exploration of controllable preparation of nitride nanomaterials. Moreover, unlike conventional nitrides with bulk or ceramic structures, the synthesis of nitride nanomaterials needs more accurate control to guarantee the target nanostructure along with the phase purity, which make the whole synthesis still a challenge to achieve. In this mini review, we mainly summarize the synthesis methods for inorganic nitride nanomaterials, including chemistry vapor deposition, self-propagation high-temperature synthesis, solid state metathesis reactions, solvothermal synthesis, etc. From the perspective of nanostructure, several novel nitrides, with nanostructures like nanoporous, two-dimensional, defects, ternary structures, and quantum dots, are showing unique properties and getting extensive attentions, recently. Prospects of future research in design and synthesis of functional inorganic nitrides are also discussed.
Complete Revascularisation in Impella-Supported Infarct-Related Cardiogenic Shock Patients Is Associated With Improved Mortality
Authors: Schäfer Andreas , Westenfeld Ralf , Sieweke Jan-Thorben , Zietzer Andreas , Wiora Julian , Masiero Giulia , Sanchez Martinez Carolina , Tarantini Giuseppe , Werner Nikos
Published: July 2021

Background: Acute myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) still has high likelihood of in-hospital mortality. The only trial evidence currently available for the intra-aortic balloon pump showed no benefit of its routine use in AMI-CS. While a potential benefit of complete revascularisation has been suggested in urgent revascularisation, the CULPRIT-SHOCK trial demonstrated no benefit of multivessel compared to culprit-lesion only revascularisation in AMI-CS. However, mechanical circulatory support was only used in a minority of patients.

Objectives: We hypothesised that more complete revascularisation facilitated by Impella support is related to lower mortality in AMI-CS patients.

Methods: We analysed data from 202 consecutive Impella-treated AMI-CS patients at four European high-volume shock centres (age 66 ± 11 years, 83% male). Forty-seven percentage (n = 94) had cardiac arrest before Impella implantation. Revascularisation was categorised as incomplete if residual SYNTAX-score (rS) was >8.

Results: Overall 30-day mortality was 47%. Mortality was higher when Impella was implanted post-PCI (Impella-post-PCI: 57%, Impella-pre-PCI: 38%, p = 0.0053) and if revascularisation was incomplete (rS ≤ 8: 37%, rS > 8: 56%, p = 0.0099). Patients with both pre-PCI Impella implantation and complete revascularisation had significantly lower mortality (33%) than those with incomplete revascularisation and implantation post PCI (72%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Our retrospective analysis suggests that complete revascularisation supported by an Impella microaxial pump implanted prior to PCI is associated with lower mortality than incomplete revascularisation in patients with AMI-CS.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients With Heart Failure With Mid-Range Ejection Fraction
Authors: Maeder Micha T. , Weber Lukas , Buser Marc , Brenner Roman , Joerg Lucas , Rickli Hans
Published: July 2021

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is common in patients with heart failure (HF). The role of PH in patients with HF with reduced (HFrEF) and preserved (HFpEF) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) has been extensively characterized during the last years. In contrast, the pathophysiology of HF with mid-range LVEF (HFmrEF), and in particular the role of PH in this context, are largely unknown. There is a paucity of data in this field, and the prevalence of PH, the underlying mechanisms, and the optimal therapy are not well-defined. Although often studied together there is increasing evidence that despite similarities with both HFrEF and HFpEF, HFmrEF also differs from both entities. The present review provides a summary of the current concepts of the mechanisms and clinical impact of PH in patients with HFmrEF, a proposal for the non-invasive and invasive diagnostic approach required to define the pathophysiology of PH and its management, and a discussion of future directions based on insights from mechanistic studies and randomized trials. We also provide an outlook regarding gaps in evidence, future clinical challenges, and research opportunities.
Immune Profile of SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern
Authors: La Porta Caterina A. M. , Zapperi Stefano
Published: July 2021

The spread of the current Sars-Cov-2 pandemics leads to the development of mutations that are constantly monitored because they could affect the efficacy of vaccines. Three recently identified mutated strains, known as variants of concern, are rapidly spreading worldwide. Here, we study possible effects of these mutations on the immune response to Sars-Cov-2 infection using NetTepi a computational method based on artificial neural networks that considers binding and stability of peptides obtained by proteasome degradation for widely represented HLA class I alleles present in human populations as well as the T-cell propensity of viral peptides that measures their immune response. Our results show variations in the number of potential highly ranked peptides ranging between 0 and 20% depending on the specific HLA allele. The results can be useful to design more specific vaccines.
COVID-19 Impact on Community-Based Participatory Randomized Controlled Trials—Lessons From the Oral Health Disparities in Children Consortium
Authors: Ramos-Gomez Francisco J. , Martin Molly A. , Nelson Suchitra S. , Borrelli Belinda , Henshaw Michelle M. , Curtan Shelley , Lindau Helen E. , Rueras Nicolle , Sandoval Anna S. , Gansky Stuart A.
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on nearly every sector of science and industry worldwide, including a significant disruption to clinical trials and dentistry. From the beginning of the pandemic, dental care was considered high risk for viral transmission due to frequent aerosol-generating procedures. This resulted in special challenges for dental providers, oral health care workers, patients, and oral health researchers. By describing the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic had on four community-based randomized clinical trials in the Oral Health Disparities in Children (OHDC) Consortium, we highlight major challenges so researchers can anticipate impacts from any future disruptions.
Rare Genetic Disorders Affecting the Periodontal Supporting Tissues in Adolescence
Authors: Kapferer-Seebacher Ines , Foradori Lena , Zschocke Johannes , Schilke Reinhard
Published: July 2021

In adolescents periodontal destruction may be the primary manifestation of an as yet unrecognized rare systemic disease, and it may be up to the periodontist to make the correct tentative diagnosis. Many genetic diseases that present with primary periodontal manifestations in adolescence affect immune function, sometimes with only mild or absent systemic features. They include periodontal Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (lack of attached gingiva, various connective tissue abnormalities), Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome (palmoplantar hyperkeratosis), and plasminogen deficiency (fibrin deposition within mucous membranes). Other immune disorders with severe periodontitis manifesting in adolescence are usually diagnosed in early childhood due to unmistakeable systemic features. They include Cohen syndrome (developmental disorder, truncal obesity, and microcephaly), Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (oculocutaneous albinism, bleeding diathesis, and other systemic manifestations), glycogen storage disease type 1b, and Chediak-Higashi syndrome (pyogenic infections, albinism, and neuropathy). The structural integrity of periodontal tissue is affected in genodermatoses such as Kindler syndrome, a type of epidermolysis bullosa. In primary hyperoxaluria, inflammatory periodontal destruction is associated with renal calculi. Breakdown of periodontal tissues independent of dental plaque biofilm-induced periodontitis is found in hypophosphatasia (highly variable skeletal hypomineralization) or isolated odontohypophosphatasia, hypophosphatemic rickets and primary hyperparathyroidism. Finally, alveolar osteolysis mimicking localized periodontitis may be due to neoplastic processes, e.g., in neurofibromatosis type 1 (typical skin features including café au lait macules and neurofibromas), Langerhans cell histiocytosis (locally destructive proliferation of bone marrow-derived immature myeloid dendritic cells), and Gorham-Stout disease (diffuse cystic angiomatosis of bone).
Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Chemicals and Cardiovascular Disease: Experimental and Epidemiological Evidence
Authors: Meneguzzi Alessandra , Fava Cristiano , Castelli Marco , Minuz Pietro
Published: July 2021

Polyfluoro- and perfluoro–alkyl substances (PFAS) are organic chemicals extensively used worldwide for industry and consumer products. Due to their chemical stability, PFAS represent a major cause of environmental pollution. PFAS accumulate in animal and human blood and tissues exerting their toxicity. We performed a review of the epidemiological studies exploring the relationship between exposure to PFAS and thromboembolic cardiovascular disease. An increase in cardiovascular disease or death related to PFAS exposure has been reported from cross-sectional and longitudinal observational studies with evidence concerning the relation with early vascular lesions and atherosclerosis. Several studies indicate an alteration in lipid and glucose metabolism disorders and increased blood pressure as a possible link with cardiovascular thromboembolic events. We also examined the recent evidence indicating that legacy and new PFAS can be incorporated in platelet cell membranes giving a solid rationale to the observed increase risk of cardiovascular events in the populations exposed to PFAS by directly promoting thrombus formation. Exposure to PFAS has been related to altered plasma membrane fluidity and associated with altered calcium signal and increased platelet response to agonists, both in vitro and ex vivo in subjects exposed to PFAS. All the functional responses are increased in platelets by incorporation of PFAS: adhesion, aggregation, microvesicles release and experimental thrombus formation. These findings offer mechanistic support the hypothesis that platelet-centred mechanisms may be implicated in the increase in cardiovascular events observed in populations chronically exposed to PFAS.
Protecting Stem Cell Derived Pancreatic Beta-Like Cells From Diabetogenic T Cell Recognition
Authors: Castro-Gutierrez Roberto , Alkanani Aimon , Mathews Clayton E. , Michels Aaron , Russ Holger A.
Published: July 2021

Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune attack directed at pancreatic beta cells predominantly mediated by T cells. Transplantation of stem cell derived beta-like cells (sBC) have been shown to rescue diabetes in preclinical animal models. However, how sBC will respond to an inflammatory environment with diabetogenic T cells in a strict human setting has not been determined. This is due to the lack of model systems that closely recapitulates human T1D. Here, we present a reliable in vitro assay to measure autologous CD8 T cell stimulation against sBC in a human setting. Our data shows that upon pro-inflammatory cytokine exposure, sBC upregulate Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) class I molecules which allows for their recognition by diabetogenic CD8 T cells. To protect sBC from this immune recognition, we utilized genome engineering to delete surface expression of HLA class I molecules and to integrate an inducible overexpression system for the immune checkpoint inhibitor Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1). Genetically engineered sBC that lack HLA surface expression or overexpress PD-L1 showed reduced stimulation of diabetogenic CD8 T cells when compared to unmodified cells. Here, we present evidence that manipulation of HLA class I and PD-L1 receptors on sBC can provide protection from diabetes-specific immune recognition in a human setting.
Long-Term Effects of the Harvesting of Trapa natans on Local Water Quality and Aquatic Macrophyte Community in Lake Erhai, China
Authors: Yuan Changbo , Bai Xiaohu , Zhu Tianshun , Wen Zihao , Cao Te , Zhang Xiaolin , Ni Leyi
Published: July 2021

Trapanatansis one of the main species causing the swamping in the littoral zones of Erhai Lake. It commonly forms a dense canopy on the water surface in the growing season (June–September), which hampers the local water quality and habitat of submerged macrophytes, and releases nutrients to the water after death in autumn and winter, resulting in the deterioration of local water quality. At present, there are many and positive research studies on the short-term effects of harvesting water chestnut on water quality and aquatic plants, but long-term observation results are lacking. In response to the above problems, we studied responses of water quality and aquatic plant community to the removal ofTrapain littoral zone of a northern bay in Erhai from August 2014 to January 2017. This could be the first attempt to discover the long-term effects of floating-leaved vegetation management in the freshwater ecosystem. The results showed that the artificial removal ofTrapasignificantly improved the local water quality in the growing season, for example, the concentrations of total nitrogen (TN), dissolved nitrogen (DN), total phosphorus (TP), and dissolved phosphorus (DP) in the non-Trapazone (NTZ) were much lower than the concentrations of those in the adjacentTrapazone (TZ). And the biomass of aquatic macrophyte community (BAMC) was significantly increased in the NTZ, up to the maximum value of about 21 kg/m2in fresh weight. However, the diversity indexes of the community in the NTZ declined. Therefore, we suggested that although the removal ofTrapaimproved the water quality and increased the productivity of the submerged aquatic plant community, it reduced the species diversity of the aquatic plant community in the long run. This is another issue that we need to pay attention to in the later management in Erhai Lake.
Forecast of Hemorrhagic Fever With Renal Syndrome and Meteorological Factors of Three Cities in Liaoning Province, China, 2005–2019
Authors: Sun Wanwan , Liu Zhidong , Liu Qiyong , Li Wen , Lu Liang
Published: July 2021

Background: Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is an endemic in China, accounting for 90% of HFRS cases worldwide and growing. Therefore, it is urgent to monitor and predict HFRS cases to make control measures more effective. In this study, we applied generalized additive models (GAMs) in Liaoning Province, an area with many HFRS cases. Our aim was to determine whether GAMs could be used to accurately predict HFRS cases and to explore the association between meteorological factors and the incidence of HFRS.

Methods: HFRS data from Liaoning were collected from January 2005 to May 2019 and used to construct GAMs. Generalized cross-validation (GCV) and adjusted R-square (R2) values were used to evaluate the constructed models. The interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used as an index to assess the quality of the proposed models.

Results: HFRS cases of the previous month and meteorological factors with different lag times were used to construct GAMs for three cities in Liaoning. The three models predicted the number of HFRS cases in the following month. The ICCs of the three models were 0.822, 0.832, and 0.831. Temperature and the number of cases in the previous month had a positive association with HFRS.

Conclusion: GAMs applied to HFRS case data are an important tool for HFRS control in China. This study shows that meteorological factors have an effect on the occurrence of HFRS. A mathematical model based on surveillance data could also be used in forecasting. Our study will inform local CDCs and assist them in carrying out more effective measures for HFRS control and prevention through simple modeling and forecasting.