bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial Inhibition by Sodium Azide Induces Assembly of eIF2α Phosphorylation-Independent Stress Granules in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Eiermann Nina , Stoecklin Georg , Jovanovic Bogdan
Published: May 2022

Mitochondrial stress is involved in many pathological conditions and triggers the integrated stress response (ISR). The ISR is initiated by phosphorylation of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF) 2α and results in global inhibition of protein synthesis, while the production of specific proteins important for the stress response and recovery is favored. The stalled translation preinitiation complexes phase-separate together with local RNA binding proteins into cytoplasmic stress granules (SG), which are important for regulation of cell signaling and survival under stress conditions. Here we found that mitochondrial inhibition by sodium azide (NaN3) in mammalian cells leads to translational inhibition and formation of SGs, as previously shown in yeast. Although mammalian NaN3-induced SGs are very small, they still contain the canonical SG proteins Caprin 1, eIF4A, eIF4E, eIF4G and eIF3B. Similar to FCCP and oligomycine, other mitochodrial stressors that cause SG formation, NaN3-induced SGs are formed by an eIF2α phosphorylation-independent mechanisms. Finally, we discovered that as shown for arsenite (ASN), but unlike FCCP or heatshock stress, Thioredoxin 1 (Trx1) is required for formation of NaN3-induced SGs.
TGFβ-Treated Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Selectively Promote Anti-Adipogenesis in Thyroid-Associated Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Shin Hyun-Ah , Park Mira , Banga Jasvinder Paul , Lew Helen
Published: May 2022

Orbital fibroblasts (OFs) in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) are differentiated from pre-adipocytes and mature adipocytes; increased lipid and fat expansion are the major characteristics of ophthalmic manifestations. Human placental mesenchymal stem cells (hPMSCs) were reported to immunomodulate pathogenesis and suppress adipogenesis in TAO OFs. Here, we prepared transforming growth factor β (TGFβ, 20 ng/mL)-treated hPMSCs (TGFβ-hPMSCs) in order to enhance anti-adipogenic effects in vitro and in TAO mice. TAO OFs were grown in a differentiation medium and then co-cultured with hPMSCs or TGFβ-hPMSCs. TAO OFs were analyzed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Oil red O staining, and western blotting. The results showed that TGFβ-hPMSCs reduced the expression of adipogenic, lipogenic, and fibrotic genes better than hPMSCs in TAO OFs. Moreover, the adipose area decreased more in TAO mice injected with TGFβ-hPMSCs compared to those injected with hPMSCs or a steroid. Further, TGFβ-hPMSCs inhibited inflammation as effectively as a steroid. In conclusion, TGFβ-hPMSCs suppressed adipogenesis and lipogenesis in vitro and in TAO mice, and the effects were mediated by the SMAD 2/3 pathways. Furthermore, TGFβ-hPMSCs exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic functions, which suggests that they could be a new and safe method to promote the anti-adipogenic function of hPMSCs to treat TAO patients.
Brain Proteome and Behavioural Analysis in Wild Type, BDNF+/− and BDNF−/− Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Exposed to Two Different Temperatures
Authors: Maffioli Elisa , Angiulli Elisa , Nonnis Simona , Grassi Scalvini Francesca , Negri Armando , Tedeschi Gabriella , Arisi Ivan , Frabetti Flavia , D’Aniello Salvatore , Alleva Enrico , Cioni Carla , Toni Mattia
Published: May 2022

Experimental evidence suggests that environmental stress conditions can alter the expression of BDNF and that the expression of this neurotrophin influences behavioural responses in mammalian models. It has been recently demonstrated that exposure to 34 °C for 21 days alters the brain proteome and behaviour in zebrafish. The aim of this work was to investigate the role of BDNF in the nervous system of adult zebrafish under control and heat treatment conditions. For this purpose, zebrafish from three different genotypes (wild type, heterozygous BDNF+/− and knock out BDNF−/−) were kept for 21 days at 26 °C or 34 °C and then euthanized for brain molecular analyses or subjected to behavioural tests (Y-maze test, novel tank test, light and dark test, social preference test, mirror biting test) for assessing behavioural aspects such as boldness, anxiety, social preference, aggressive behaviour, interest for the novel environment and exploration. qRT-PCR analysis showed the reduction of gene expression of BDNF and its receptors after heat treatment in wild type zebrafish. Moreover, proteomic analysis and behavioural tests showed genotype- and temperature-dependent effects on brain proteome and behavioural responding. Overall, the absent expression of BDNF in KO alters (1) the brain proteome by reducing the expression of proteins involved in synapse functioning and neurotransmitter-mediated transduction; (2) the behaviour, which can be interpreted as bolder and less anxious and (3) the cellular and behavioural response to thermal treatment.
Fatty Acid Fingerprints and Hyaluronic Acid in Extracellular Vesicles from Proliferating Human Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes
Authors: Mustonen Anne-Mari , Paakkonen Tommi , Matilainen Johanna , Rilla Kirsi , Käkelä Reijo , Malinen Marjo , Takabe Piia , Oikari Sanna , Capra Janne , Sihvo Sanna P. , Ryökäs Pauliina , Nieminen Petteri
Published: May 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) function as conveyors of fatty acids (FAs) and other bioactive lipids and can modulate the gene expression and behavior of target cells. EV lipid composition influences the fluidity and stability of EV membranes and reflects the availability of lipid mediator precursors. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) secrete EVs that transport hyaluronic acid (HA). FLSs play a central role in inflammation, pannus formation, and cartilage degradation in joint diseases, and EVs have recently emerged as potential mediators of these effects. The aim of the present study was to follow temporal changes in HA and EV secretion by normal FLSs, and to characterize the FA profiles of FLSs and EVs during proliferation. The methods used included nanoparticle tracking analysis, confocal laser scanning microscopy, sandwich-type enzyme-linked sorbent assay, quantitative PCR, and gas chromatography. The expression of hyaluronan synthases 1–3 in FLSs and HA concentrations in conditioned media decreased during cell proliferation. This was associated with elevated proportions of 20:4n-6 and total n-6 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) in high-density cells, reductions in n-3/n-6 PUFA ratios, and up-regulation of cluster of differentiation 44, tumor necrosis factor α, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, and PPAR-γ. Compared to the parent FLSs, 16:0, 18:0, and 18:1n-9 were enriched in the EV fraction. EV counts decreased during cell growth, and 18:2n-6 in EVs correlated with the cell count. To conclude, FLS proliferation was featured by increased 20:4n-6 proportions and reduced n-3/n-6 PUFA ratios, and FAs with a low degree of unsaturation were selectively transferred from FLSs into EVs. These FA modifications have the potential to affect membrane fluidity, biosynthesis of lipid mediators, and inflammatory processes in joints, and could eventually provide tools for translational studies to counteract cartilage degradation in inflammatory joint diseases.
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Extraradical Mycelium Promotes Si and Mn Subcellular Redistribution in Wheat Grown under Mn Toxicity
Authors: Faria Jorge M. S. , Conceição Taiana A. , Teixeira Dora Martins , Brito Isabel , Barrulas Pedro , Pinto Ana Paula , Vaz Margarida , Carvalho Mário
Published: May 2022

Manganese (Mn) and aluminum (Al) toxicities are serious edaphic limitations to crop production in acidic soils. Excess Mn can be countered using a stress-adapted soil microbiota that establish symbiotic relationships with native plants. The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) associated with Lolium rigidum L. develop extraradical mycelia (ERM) that quickly colonize wheat and lead to greater shoot growth by promoting stress-evading mechanisms that are not yet completely explained. In the present study, wheat growth was assessed after 3 weeks on disturbed and undisturbed (intact ERM) acidic soil where the native non-mycotrophic Silene gallica L. or strongly mycotrophic L. rigidum were previously developed. The physiological and biochemical mechanisms responsible for increased growth were analyzed by assessing wheat leaf chlorophyll content, photosystem II quantum yield and performance index, enzymatic activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and contents and subcellular localization of Mn, Mg, Si and K. The soil from native plants had a beneficial effect on shoot weight and chlorophyll levels. The highest benefits were obtained for wheat grown in soil with intact ERM associated with L. rigidum. In this condition, where earlier mycorrhization was favored, the Mn content decreased, alongside the content of Si, while the Mg/Mn ratio increased. Mn was redirected to the apoplast, while Si was redirected to the symplast. The activity of APX, GPX and SOD increased, probably due to increased metabolic growth (higher shoot weight and chlorophyll content). Understanding the mechanisms induced by native AMF responsible for increasing wheat performance can contribute to the establishment of sustainable approaches for crop production in acidic soils with Mn toxicity. The use of native plant AMF developers can improve the sustainable use of natural resources in the scope of greener agricultural practices.
5GAKA-LCCO: A Secure 5G Authentication and Key Agreement Protocol with Less Communication and Computation Overhead
Authors: Xiao Yuelei , Gao Shan
Published: May 2022

There are still some shortcomings in the latest version of the 5G authentication and key agreement (AKA) protocol, which is specified by the third-generation partnership project (3GPP). To overcome these shortcomings, an improved primary authentication and key agreement protocol for 5G networks (5G-IPAKA) were proposed. However, one of the shortcomings of the 5G AKA protocol has not been completely overcome in the 5G-IPAKA protocol, resulting in denial of service (DoS) attacks against both the serving network (SN) and the home network (HN). In addition, the 5G AKA protocol has large communication and computation overhead, while the 5G-IPAKA protocol has an even larger communication and computation overhead. These will lead to a great deal of energy consumption. To solve these problems, a secure 5G authentication and key agreement protocol, with less communication and computation overhead (5GAKA-LCCO) is proposed. Then, the 5GAKA-LCCO protocol is proven secure in both the strand space model and the Scyther tool. Further discussion and comparative analysis show that the 5GAKA-LCCO protocol can completely overcome the shortcomings of the latest version of the 5G AKA protocol and is better than the recently improved 5G AKA protocols in overcoming these shortcomings. Additionally, the 5GAKA-LCCO protocol has less communication and computation overhead than the 5G AKA protocol and the recently improved 5G AKA protocols.
Motivating Machines: The Potential of Modeling Motivation as MoA for Behavior Change Systems
Authors: Taj Fawad , Klein Michel C. A. , Van Halteren Aart
Published: May 2022

The pathway through which behavior change techniques have an effect on the behavior of an individual is referred to as the Mechanism of Action (MoA). Digitally enabled behavior change interventions could potentially benefit from explicitly modelling the MoA to achieve more effective, adaptive, and personalized interventions. For example, if ‘motivation’ is proposed as the targeted construct in any behavior change intervention, how can a model of this construct be used to act as a mechanism of action, mediating the intervention effect using various behavior change techniques? This article discusses a computational model for motivation based on the neural reward pathway with the aim to make it act as a mediator between behavior change techniques and target behavior. This model’s formal description and parametrization are described from a neurocomputational sciences prospect and elaborated with the help of a sub-question, i.e., what parameters/processes of the model are crucial for the generation and maintenance of motivation. An intervention scenario is simulated to show how an explicit model of ‘motivation’ and its parameters can be used to achieve personalization and adaptivity. A computational representation of motivation as a mechanism of action may also further advance the design, evaluation, and effectiveness of personalized and adaptive digital behavior change interventions.
Quantifying Lithium Ion Exchange in Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI) on Graphite Anode Surfaces
Authors: Ho Janet S. , Zhu Zihua , Stallworth Philip , Greenbaum Steve G. , Zhang Sheng S. , Xu Kang
Published: May 2022

Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI) has been identified as the most important and least understood component in lithium-ion batteries. Despite extensive studies in the past two decades, a few mysteries remain: what is the chemical form of and degree of mobility of Li+ in the interphase? What fraction of Li+ is permanently immobilized in the SEI, while the rest are still able to participate in the cell reactions via the ion-exchange process with Li+ in the electrolyte? This study attempted to answer, in part, these questions by using 6Li and 7Li-isotopes to label SEIs and electrolytes, and then quantifying the distribution of permanently immobilized and ion-exchangeable Li+ with solid-state NMR and ToF-SIMS. The results showed that the majority of Li+ were exchanged after one SEI formation cycle, and a complete exchange after 25 cycles. Ion exchange by diffusion based on concentration gradient in the absence of applied potential also occurred simultaneously. This knowledge will provide a foundation for not only understanding but also designing better SEIs for future battery chemistries.
Is Obesity a Risk Factor for Carotid Atherosclerotic Disease?—Opportunistic Review
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Cunha Pedro , Carneiro Alexandre , Vila Isabel , Cunha Cristina , Silva Cristina , Longatto-Filho Adhemar , Mesquita Amílcar , Cotter Jorge , Correia-Neves Margarida , Mansilha Armando
Published: May 2022

Obesity is a risk factor for coronary atherosclerosis. However, the influence of adipose tissue in carotid atherosclerosis is not completely understood. No systematic review/meta-analysis was previously performed to understand if obesity is a risk factor for carotid atherosclerosis. This paper aims to provide an opportunistic review of the association between obesity and carotid atherosclerosis and define the role of the different adipose tissue depots in the characteristics of carotid stenosis. The databases PubMed and Cochrane Library were searched on 15–27 April and 19 May 2021. A total of 1750 articles published between 1985 and 2019 were identified, 64 were preselected, and 38 papers (35,339 subjects) were included in the final review. The most frequent methods used to determine obesity were anthropometric measures. Carotid plaque was mostly characterized by ultrasound. Overall obesity and visceral fat were not associated with the presence of carotid plaque when evaluated separately. Waist-hip ratio, however, was a significant anthropometric measure associated with the prevalence of carotid plaques. As it reflected the ratio of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue, the balance between these depots could impact the prevalence of carotid plaques.
Comparison of Glycemic Variability and Hypoglycemic Events in Hospitalized Older Adults Treated with Basal Insulin plus Vildagliptin and Basal–Bolus Insulin Regimen: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Batule Sol , Ramos Analía , Pérez-Montes de Oca Alejandra , Fuentes Natalia , Martínez Santiago , Raga Joan , Pena Xoel , Tural Cristina , Muñoz Pilar , Soldevila Berta , Alonso Nuria , Umpierrez Guillermo , Puig-Domingo Manel
Published: May 2022

Background: The basal–bolus insulin regimen is recommended in hospitalized patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), but has an increased risk of hypoglycemia. We aimed to compare dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4-i) and basal–bolus insulin glycemic outcomes in hospitalized type 2 DM patients. Methods and patients: Our prospective randomized study included 102 elderly T2DM patients (82 ± 9 years, HbA1c 6.6% ± 1.9). Glycemic control: A variability coefficient assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (Free Style® sensor), mean insulin dose and hypoglycemia rates obtained with the two treatments were analyzed. Results: No differences were found between groups in glycemic control (mean daily glycemia during the first 10 days: 152.6 ± 38.5 vs. 154.2 ± 26.3 mg/dL; p = 0.8). The total doses Kg/day were 0.40 vs. 0.20, respectively (p < 0.001). A lower number of hypoglycemic events (9% vs. 15%; p < 0.04) and lower glycemic coefficient of variation (22% vs. 28%; p < 0.0002) were observed in the basal–DPP4-i compared to the basal–bolus regimen group. Conclusions: Treatment of inpatient hyperglycemia with basal insulin plus DPP4-i is an effective and safe regimen in old subjects with T2DM, with a similar mean daily glucose concentration, but lower glycemic variability and fewer hypoglycemic episodes compared to the basal bolus insulin regimen.
CD8+ T Cells in OA Knee Joints Are Differentiated into Subsets Depending on OA Stage and Compartment
Authors: Platzer Hadrian , Trauth Richard , Nees Timo A. , Tripel Elena , Gantz Simone , Schiltenwolf Marcus , Moradi Babak , Rosshirt Nils
Published: May 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is no longer considered a purely degenerative disease. OA is defined as a disease of the entire joint, in which inflammation occurs in various joint tissues. The overall aim of this study was to analyze the presence and polarization of CD8+ T cell subsets in OA knee joints, in relation to the OA stage and compartment (synovial fluid (SF), synovial membrane (SM,) peripheral blood (PB)). A quantitative flow analysis of CD8+ T cell subsets to compare the SF, SM, PB, was performed in patients with different stages of OA (early, unicondylar and bicondylar OA). Samples of the SF, SM and PB were harvested from a total of 55 patients at the time of surgery. Early OA was confirmed by independent surgeons intraoperatively. Uni- and bicondylar OA was confirmed and graded by two plane radiographs. Samples were analyzed by flow cytometry for surface markers, and cytokines by intracellular staining (ICS). CD8+ T cells were shown to be differentiated into pro-inflammatory IFN-γ producing Tc1 and IL-17A producing Tc17, as well as anti-inflammatory IL-4 producing Tc2. All CD8+ T cell subsets (Tc1, Tc17, and Tc2) were detected in both the SM and SF. The percentage of CD8+ T cell subsets of the total CD8+ T cell population was dependent on the OA stage and compartment. Compared with the peripheral blood (PB), the proportion of CD8+IFN-γ+ Tc1 and CD8+IL-17A+ Tc17 was significantly increased in OA SF. This was confirmed in our data for both early OA and end-stage OA. In the SM samples of end-stage OA patients, the proportion of CD8+IL-17A+ Tc17 was significantly increased compared to the PB. Comparing SF and SM samples of end-stage OA patients, the proportion of CD8+IFN-γ+ Tc1 was significantly increased in SF, whereas there were no differences concerning CD8+IL-4+ Tc2 and CD8+IL-17A+ Tc17. End-stage OA samples showed a significant increase of CD8+IL-4+ Tc2 in the SM for both unicondylar and bicondylar OA compared to early OA. CD8+ T cells infiltrating the SM and SF in OA knees are differentiated into IFN-γ-, IL-17A-, and IL-4-producing CD8+ T cell subsets (Tc1, Tc17, Tc2). This differentiation depends on the OA stage and OA compartment. Further investigation of CD8+ T cell subsets and their interaction with other inflammatory cells such as CD4+ T cells and macrophages may help to identify novel therapeutic anti-inflammatory strategies for containing OA progression.
Correlation of Clinical Fibrillar Layer Detection and Corneal Thickness in Advanced Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy
Authors: Özer Orlando , Mestanoglu Mert , Howaldt Antonia , Clahsen Thomas , Schiller Petra , Siebelmann Sebastian , Reinking Niklas , Cursiefen Claus , Bachmann Björn , Matthaei Mario
Published: May 2022

Central subendothelial geographic deposits are formed as a fibrillar layer (FL) in advanced Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). Previous studies demonstrated a significant decrease in corneal endothelial cell (CEC) density and an increase in focal corneal backscatter in the FL area. The present study investigated the association of the FL with edema formation and its localization. Patients (n = 96) presenting for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for advanced FECD were included. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy with FECD grading was followed by Scheimpflug imaging with en face backscatter analysis and pachymetric analysis. FL dimensions were measured, and correlation with pachymetric values was performed. An FL was detected in 74% of all eyes (n = 71). Pachymetric values in FL-positive versus FL-negative eyes were for corneal thickness at the apex (ACT) 614 ± 52 µm and 575 ± 46 µm (p = 0.001), for peripheral corneal thickness at 1 mm (PCT1mm) 616 ± 50 µm and 580 ± 44 µm (p = 0.002), for PCT2mm 625 ± 48 µm and 599 ± 41 µm (p = 0.017), for PCT3mm 651 ± 46 µm and 635 ± 40 µm (p = 0.128) and for PCT4mm 695 ± 52 µm and 686 ± 43 µm (p = 0.435), respectively. Correlation analysis indicated a weak correlation for the FL maximum vertical caliper diameter with ACT and PCT1mm values but no further relevant correlations. In FL-positive eyes, increased focal corneal backscatter and increased corneal thickness showed primarily central and inferotemporal localization. In conclusion, Scheimpflug imaging shows an association of the FL with increased corneal thickness in advanced FECD and shows localization of the FL and increased corneal thickness in the central and inferotemporal region. This may provide important information for progression assessment and therapeutic decision making in FECD patients in the future.
Global and Regional Burden of Bacterial Antimicrobial Resistance in Urinary Tract Infections in 2019
Authors: Li Xuhui , Fan Hua , Zi Hao , Hu Hankun , Li Binghui , Huang Jiao , Luo Pengcheng , Zeng Xiantao
Published: May 2022

Background: There are still no detailed data about the burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in urinary tract infections (UTI). Concrete knowledge of global and regional bacterial AMR data is crucial for developing informed programs and policies to control bacterial AMR and for prudent use of antibiotics to optimize antibiotic therapy in patients with UTI. This study aimed to provide comprehensive global and regional estimates for the AMR burden of UTI in 2019. Methods: Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD), including death, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), year lived with disability (YLD), and years of life lost (YLL) for bacterial AMR in UTI for 7 GBD super-regions, 21 regions, 14 pathogens, 13 antibiotic classes, and 66 pathogen-antibiotic combinations in 2019. The estimates were based on two counterfactual scenarios: drug-susceptible infection and no infection. Results: Globally, there were 64.89 thousand deaths (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 45.86–93.35) attributed to and 0.26 million deaths (95% UI: 0.18–0.36) associated with bacterial AMR in UTI in 2019. Among regions, the all-age death rates were higher in southern Latin America, tropical Latin America, and Europe and lower in sub-Saharan Africa. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae accounted for more than 50% of deaths attributable to and associated with AMR, and resistance was high among multiple types of antibiotic class, including fluoroquinolones, carbapenems, and third-generation cephalosporins. There were 2 pathogen-drug combinations that caused more than 6000 resistance-attributable deaths: third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli and fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli. Conclusions: AMR in UTI is an unignorable health problem, both for the management of urology disease and for global antibiotic resistance. Special tailored strategies, including enhanced surveillance and rational use of antibiotics, should be developed for different regions according to the region-specific pathogen-antibiotic situations and resources.
Predictors of Poor Outcome among Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Nationally Representative Sample of the Saudi Arabian Population
Authors: Almutairi Masaad Saeed , Assiri Ahmed M. , Almohammed Omar A.
Published: May 2022

The outbreak and continuing impact of COVID-19 have significantly increased the rates of hospitalization and admissions to intensive care units (ICU). This study evaluates clinical outcomes in critically ill patients and investigates variables tied to poor prognosis. A secondary database analysis was conducted to investigate the predictors of poor outcome among critically ill COVID-19 patients in Saudi Arabia. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between various demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and COVID-19 symptoms and patients’ poor prognosis, as a composite outcome. A total of 2257 critically ill patients were identified (male (71.8%), and elderly (37.3%)). The mortality rate was 50.0%, and the composite poor outcome was 68.4%. The predictors of poor outcome were being elderly (OR = 4.79, 95%CI 3.19–7.18), obesity (OR = 1.43, 95%CI 1.1–1.87), having a severe or critical case at admission (OR = 6.46, 95%CI 2.34–17.8; OR = 22.3, 95%CI 11.0–45, respectively), and some signs and symptoms of COVID-19 such as shortness of breath, feeling fatigued or headache, respiratory rate ≥ 30/min, PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 300, and altered consciousness. In conclusion, identifying high-risk populations that are expected to have a poor prognosis based on their criteria upon admission helps policymakers and practitioners better triage patients when faced with limited healthcare resources.
Outcome after Thrombectomy of Acute M1 and Carotid-T Occlusions with Involvement of the Corticospinal Tract in Postinterventional Imaging
Authors: Reitz Sarah Christina , Gerhard Ellen , Breuer Stella , Bohmann Ferdinand Oliver , Pfeilschifter Waltraud , Berkefeld Joachim
Published: May 2022

Objectives: Until now, thrombectomy studies have provided little reliable information about the correlation between the infarct topography and clinical outcome of acute stroke patients with embolic large-vessel occlusions. Therefore, we aimed to analyze whether infarcts of the corticospinal tracts in the central white matter (CWM) or the internal capsule on postinterventional imaging controls are associated with poor clinical outcome after thrombectomy. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed imaging data from 70 patients who underwent endovascular thrombectomy for emergent middle cerebral artery or carotid-T occlusions. Inclusion criteria were postinterventional infarct demarcation in the regions of the internal capsule, caudate, lentiform nucleus, and CWM. Primary outcome was the mRS after 90 days and secondary endpoints were subgroup analyses regarding additional cortical infarction. Conclusions: In this exploratory study, we found no indication that infarcts in the course of the corticospinal tracts predict poor clinical outcome after successful thrombectomy in patients with embolic carotid-T or M1 occlusions. In our analysis, a significant number of patients showed a favorable 90 day outcome. Additional cortical infarcts may have a greater impact on the risk of an unfavorable outcome. Results: Good clinical outcome after 90 days (mRS 0–2) was shown in 36 out of 70 patients (51.4%), with excellent clinical outcome (mRS 0–1) in 23 patients (32.9%). Here, 58.6% patients lived at home without nursing service after 90 days. Patients with minimal additional cortical infarction in postinterventional imaging had a 75.6% better chance of excellent outcome.
Novel Computed Tomography Variables for Assessing Tricuspid Valve Morphology: Results from the TRIMA (Tricuspid Regurgitation IMAging) Study
Authors: Cammalleri Valeria , Carpenito Myriam , De Stefano Domenico , Ussia Gian Paolo , Bono Maria Caterina , Mega Simona , Nusca Annunziata , Cocco Nino , Nobile Edoardo , De Filippis Aurelio , Vitez Luka , Quattrocchi Carlo Cosimo , Grigioni Francesco
Published: May 2022

Background: Computed tomography (CT) is the recommended imaging technique for defining the anatomical suitability for current transcatheter technologies and planning tricuspid valve (TV) intervention. The aim of the Tricuspid Regurgitation IMAging (TRIMA) study was to assess the geometrical characteristics of the TV complex using novel CT parameters. Methods: This prospective, single-center study enrolled 22 consecutive patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation, who underwent a cardiac CT study dedicated to the right chambers. The following variables were obtained: annulus area and perimeter, septal-lateral and antero-posterior diameters, tenting height, and anatomical regurgitant orifice area. Moreover, the following novel annular parameters were assessed: distance between commissures, distance between TV centroid and commissures, and angles between centroid and commissures. Results: A significant phasic variability during the cardiac cycle existed for all variables except for eccentricity, angles, and distance between the postero-septal and antero-posterior commissure and distance between the centroid and antero-posterior commissure. There was a significant relationship between the TV annulus area and novel annular parameters, except for annular angles. Additionally, novel annular variables were found to predict the annulus area. Conclusions: These novel additional variables may provide an initial platform from which the complexity of the TV annular morphology can continue to be better understood for further improving transcatheter therapies.
Development and Initial Feasibility of a Hospital-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Intervention to Improve Retention in Care for Out-of-Care Persons with HIV: Lessons Learned from an Open Pilot Trial
Authors: Dindo Lilian , Moitra Ethan , Roddy McKenzie K. , Ratcliff Chelsea , Markham Christine , Giordano Thomas
Published: May 2022

Roughly 40% of persons with HIV (PWH) are not consistently involved in HIV care in the US. Finding out-of-care PWH is difficult, but hospitalization is common and presents an opportunity to re-engage PWH in outpatient care. The aims of this study were to (1) develop an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based intervention for hospitalized, out-of-care PWH who endorse avoidance-coping to improve HIV treatment engagement; (2) examine the intervention’s initial feasibility and acceptability; and (3) to revise the study protocol (including the intervention), based on stakeholder feedback, in preparation for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing ACT to treatment as usual. Therapists and HIV care experts developed a four-session ACT-based intervention to be delivered during hospitalization. Fifteen hospitalized patients with poorly controlled HIV enrolled in the open trial, eight completed four sessions, two completed three sessions, and seven provided qualitative feedback. Patients universally liked the intervention and the holistic approach to mental health and HIV care. Refinements included repeating key concepts, including representative graphics, and translating to Spanish. Among the patients who attended ≥3 ACT sessions, 5/10 attended a HIV-care follow-up visit and 5/7 who had labs had a viral load <20 2-months post-intervention. Next steps include conducting a randomized clinical trial exploring the impact of the refined intervention to treatment as usual on retention in care and viral load. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04481373.
Multi-Class CNN for Classification of Multispectral and Autofluorescence Skin Lesion Clinical Images
Authors: Lihacova Ilze , Bondarenko Andrey , Chizhov Yuriy , Uteshev Dilshat , Bliznuks Dmitrijs , Kiss Norbert , Lihachev Alexey
Published: May 2022

In this work, we propose to use an artificial neural network to classify limited data of clinical multispectral and autofluorescence images of skin lesions. Although the amount of data is limited, the deep convolutional neural network classification of skin lesions using a multi-modal image set is studied and proposed for the first time. The unique dataset consists of spectral reflectance images acquired under 526 nm, 663 nm, 964 nm, and autofluorescence images under 405 nm LED excitation. The augmentation algorithm was applied for multi-modal clinical images of different skin lesion groups to expand the training datasets. It was concluded from saliency maps that the classification performed by the convolutional neural network is based on the distribution of the major skin chromophores and endogenous fluorophores. The resulting classification confusion matrices, as well as the performance of trained neural networks, have been investigated and discussed.
Pelvic Fractures—An Underestimated Problem? Incidence and Mortality Risk after Pelvic Fracture in Austria, 2010–2018
Authors: Behanova Martina , Haschka Judith , Reichardt Berthold , Dimai Hans-Peter , Resch Heinrich , Zwerina Jochen , Kocijan Roland
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Pelvic fractures (PFs) are related to osteoporosis, and represent a serious individual and socioeconomic burden. (2) Methods: We examined age- and sex-standardised incidence rates (SIRs) of PF, along with rates of all-cause overall and one-year mortality among patients with PF. We compared the mortality rates between PF patients and a matched fracture-free cohort. Patients ≥50 years old in Austria hospitalised with PF in 2010–2018, along with their dates of death, were recorded. (3) Results: We identified 54,975 patients with PF, of whom 70.9% were women. Between 2010 and 2018 the SIR of PF increased in men by 10.0%—from 125.3 (95% Confidence Interval 118.9–132.0) to 137.8 (95% CI 131.8–144.0) per 100,000—and in women by 2.7%—from 218.7 (95% CI 212.0–225.6) to 224.7 (95% CI 218.3–231.3) per 100,000. The one-year post-PF mortality rate was higher in men than in women (13.0% and 11.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). Pelvic fracture patients aged ≥65 had an elevated mortality risk (Hazard Ratio 1.75, 95% CI 1.71–1.79, p < 0.001) compared to controls. (4) Conclusions: There is a clear increase in the incidence of PF in the elderly population, with a greater increase in men over time. Pelvic fracture itself contributes to increased mortality in individuals aged 65 and above.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Head-Split Fractures—A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Imiolczyk Jan-Philipp , Brunner Ulrich , Imiolczyk Tankred , Freislederer Florian , Endell David , Scheibel Markus
Published: May 2022

Head-split fractures are proximal humerus fractures (PHF) that result from fracture lines traversing the articular surface. While head-split fractures are rare, surgical treatment of these complex injuries can be extremely challenging and is associated with high rates of complications. Treatment using primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been associated with moderate complication rates and reproducible clinical results. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes, and complication rates of RSA for head-split PHF. Twenty-six patients were evaluated based on Constant Score (CS) and range of motion of both shoulders and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV). Radiographic analysis evaluated tuberosity healing, prosthetic loosening and scapular notching. Patients achieved good clinical results with a CS of 73.7 points and SSV of 82% after a mean follow-up of 50 months. The relative CS comparing operated versus the unaffected shoulder was 92%. Greater tuberosity healing was achieved in 61%. Patients who suffered a high-energy trauma reached a significantly greater functional outcome. Patients who suffered multifragmentation to the humeral head performed the worst. There were no cases of loosening; scapular notching was visible in two cases. The complication rate was 8%. RSA is an adequate treatment option with for head-split PHF in elderly patients.
Design of a Broadband Cavity Baffle Bender Transducer
Authors: Zhao Zhiwei , Wu Jinqiu , Qi Xiaofei , Qiao Gang , Zhang Wenbo , Zhang Chaofan , Guo Kang
Published: May 2022

As low-frequency and broadband acoustic emission capability is beneficial to the detection range and acoustic communication speed of small scale autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV), this type of transducer is required, especially in cases of complex acoustic environments. A broadband bender transducer with cavity baffle that suits small scale AUV is proposed. Rather than additional benders, a passive cavity baffle, which would be capable of providing mutual radiation and a fluid cavity mode, is introduced to a single bender. The bending resonant frequency is reduced by the mutual radiation between the bender and the cavity baffle, the cavity baffle extends the lower limit of the available frequency band of the transducer, the liquid resonant frequency behind the former expands the higher limit, then the cavity baffle bender transducer fills the role of radiating low-frequency and broadband emissions through multimode coupling. The finite element method is used to analyze the acoustic performance of the transducer under different baffle conditions. Then, a prototype of the broadband cavity baffle bender transducer is developed according to the optimized parameters of simulation. The acoustic parameters of the prototype were measured in an anechoic pool. The resonant frequency measured in water of the bender itself is 3 kHz, and the −3dB bandwidth is 560 Hz. The prototype test results show that the cavity baffle scheme can improve the −3dB bandwidth of the bender from 560 Hz to 1000 Hz, which fundamentally realizes the expectations of the prototype design.
Influence of Commercial-Scale Seaweed Cultivation on Water Quality: A Case Study in a Typical Laver Culture Area of the Yellow Sea, North China
Authors: Liang Zhourui , Wang Wenjun , Liu Lulei , Li Guoliang , Xia Bin
Published: May 2022

Seaweeds are important to marine ecosystems through biogeochemical processes. Laver are the most widely farmed seaweeds with the largest culture area in China. This study analyzes the water quality characteristics in a large-scale laver culture area (Taoluo) by comparing a small-scale laver culture area and non-culture areas, thereby assessing the changes in water quality due to large-scale laver cultivation. Particulate organic carbon and/or dissolved organic carbon decreased while the total suspended solid increased seasonally or with the distance from the coast. The concentrations of total nitrogen as well as dissolved inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus were generally higher near the shore and decreased seasonally in Taoluo. Substantial spatial variation in nutrient parameters between culture and non-culture sites was observed. Moreover, significant variations between culture and non-culture sites on a spatio-temporal scale were mostly observed in December compared with September and October. Furthermore, more clusters were found in December based on the water quality characteristics in various sampling sites using a hierarchical clustering analysis. These results suggested that more spatial deviation in water quality parameters between culture and non-culture sites were found in December; thus it can be hypothesized that the changes in water quality due to large-scale cultivation for laver was likely to occur in northern China in winter, i.e., the period of best growth status for the cold-temperate species of laver (e.g., Neopyropia yezoensis). We hope that this study can help to further understand the effects of seaweed farming on marine environments.
Sustained Hyperglycemia and Its Relationship with the Outcome of Hospitalized Patients with Severe COVID-19: Potential Role of ACE2 Upregulation
Authors: Vargas-Rodriguez Jose , Valdés Aguayo José , Garza-Veloz Idalia , Martinez-Rendon Jacqueline , del Refugio Rocha Pizaña Maria , Cabral-Pacheco Griselda , Juárez-Alcalá Vladimir , Martinez-Fierro Margarita
Published: May 2022

Chronic hyperglycemia increases the risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms, but the related mechanisms are unclear. A mean glucose level upon hospital admission >166 mg/dl correlates positively with acute respiratory distress syndrome in patients with hyperglycemia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between sustained hyperglycemia and the outcome of hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. We also evaluated the effect of high glucose concentrations on the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We carried out a case-control study with hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 with and without sustained hyperglycemia. In a second stage, we performed in vitro assays evaluating the effects of high glucose concentrations on ACE2 gene expression. Fifty hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 were included, of which 28 (56%) died and 22 (44%) recovered. Patients who died due to COVID-19 and COVID-19 survivors had a high prevalence of hyperglycemia (96.4% versus 90.9%), with elevated central glucose upon admission (197.7 mg/dl versus 155.9 mg/dl, p = 0.089) and at discharge (185.2 mg/dl versus 134 mg/dl, p = 0.038). The mean hypoxemia level upon hospital admission was 81% in patients who died due to COVID-19 complications and 88% in patients who survived (p = 0.026); at the time of discharge, hypoxemia levels were also different between the groups (68% versus 92%, p ≤ 0.001). In vitro assays showed that the viability of A549 cells decreased (76.41%) as the glucose concentration increased, and the ACE2 gene was overexpressed 9.91-fold after 72 h (p ≤ 0.001). The relationship between hyperglycemia and COVID-19 in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 plays an important role in COVID-19-related complications and the outcome for these patients. In patients with chronic and/or sustained hyperglycemia, the upregulation of ACE2, and its potential glycation and malfunction, could be related to complications observed in patients with COVID-19.
A PDE Model of Breast Tumor Progression in MMTV-PyMT Mice
Authors: Mohammad Mirzaei Navid , Tatarova Zuzana , Hao Wenrui , Changizi Navid , Asadpoure Alireza , Zervantonakis Ioannis K. , Hu Yu , Chang Young Hwan , Shahriyari Leili
Published: May 2022

The evolution of breast tumors greatly depends on the interaction network among different cell types, including immune cells and cancer cells in the tumor. This study takes advantage of newly collected rich spatio-temporal mouse data to develop a data-driven mathematical model of breast tumors that considers cells’ location and key interactions in the tumor. The results show that cancer cells have a minor presence in the area with the most overall immune cells, and the number of activated immune cells in the tumor is depleted over time when there is no influx of immune cells. Interestingly, in the case of the influx of immune cells, the highest concentrations of both T cells and cancer cells are in the boundary of the tumor, as we use the Robin boundary condition to model the influx of immune cells. In other words, the influx of immune cells causes a dominant outward advection for cancer cells. We also investigate the effect of cells’ diffusion and immune cells’ influx rates in the dynamics of cells in the tumor micro-environment. Sensitivity analyses indicate that cancer cells and adipocytes’ diffusion rates are the most sensitive parameters, followed by influx and diffusion rates of cytotoxic T cells, implying that targeting them is a possible treatment strategy for breast cancer.
Gender Differences in Risk-Taking Investment Strategies in Defined Contribution Plans
Authors: Giannikos Christos I. , Korkou Efstathia
Published: May 2022

We study gender differences in risk-taking investment strategies in Defined Contribution (DC) Plans with the help of data from the US Federal Reserve Board’s Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). By DC plans, we refer not only to employer-sponsored plans such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s, but also to Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Roth and Keogh accounts. We suggest our own split of the SCF DC plans into risk-free and risky ones, and we build risky shares of total DC plans. We compare the risky shares of females and males in two different settings. In the first setting, we work with two samples of single people, and in the second setting we work with an extended SCF sample. In both settings, we conclude that there are no significant differences in the risky shares of total DC plans between (single) women and (single) men but that there are significant gender differences in risky IRAs and 401(k)s between (single) women and (single) men. We conclude with policy implications.
A Systematic Robust Design Method to Reduce Products’ Environmental Impact Variations
Authors: Spreafico Christian
Published: May 2022

Reducing the environmental impact of a device arising from unexpected failures should be an environmental goal. However, this problem can be difficult to tackle, especially due to the limitations of the traditional eco-design methods, which are more used to reduce the baseline impacts. This study proposes a novel method to overcome this limitation, working at the intersection of conceptual design, robust design, and eco-assessment. Based on the inquiry-based approach, the method consists of 52 questions, systematically organised on 4 hierarchical levels dedicated to the formulation of the initial environmental problem, the definition of the design goal, and the strategy and the selection of the methods, tools, and solutions to be applied. The method was applied in two real case studies about an adsorption air dryer and a medium-voltage circuit breaker by providing different solutions, where the most promising one was able to avoid the environmental impact variations up to 2% of the total impacts of the device. The method could be a starting point to build a design theory that is dedicated to this sector, still largely unexplored, while this vocation towards conceptual design is an appeal for a contamination of the more routine fields of robust and eco-design on the educational, application, and research levels.
Correction: Hansma, H.G. Potassium at the Origins of Life: Did Biology Emerge from Biotite in Micaceous Clay? Life 2022, 12, 301
Authors: Hansma Helen Greenwood
Published: May 2022

The author wishes to make the following correction to this paper [...]