bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory Effect of Lactiplantibacillusplantarum and Lactococcus lactis Autochtonous Strains against Listeria monocytogenes in a Laboratory Cheese Model
Authors: Pisano Maria Barbara , Fadda Maria Elisabetta , Viale Silvia , Deplano Maura , Mereu Federica , Blažić Marijana , Cosentino Sofia
Published: March 2022

In the present study, six Lactococcus lactis and seven Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains isolated from artisanal Sardinian dairy products were evaluated for their efficacy in controlling the growth of Listeria monocytogenes during the storage of miniature fresh cheese manufactured on a laboratory scale to exploit their possible use as biopreservatives. The strains were tested for antimicrobial activity and some technological characteristics before using them in miniature fresh cheese to evaluate their in situ antilisterial effect. Our results showed that five strains (L. lactis 16FS16-9/20234-11FS16 and Lpb. plantarum 1/14537-4A/20045) could be considered suitable candidates for use as protective cultures in fresh cheese manufacture since they significantly lowered the pathogen counts by 3–4 log units compared to the control; however, all strains tested were capable of decreasing L. monocytogenes numbers. Our results suggest that the single and combined action of the acidifying power and the production of bacteriocin of these strains was capable of controlling and/or reducing the growth of L. monocytogenes. Considering their technological characteristics, they might be used as starter/adjunct cultures to increase the safety of the products, perhaps in association with other antimicrobial hurdles.
Chlorella pyrenoidosa Polysaccharides as a Prebiotic to Modulate Gut Microbiota: Physicochemical Properties and Fermentation Characteristics In Vitro
Authors: Lv Kunling , Yuan Qingxia , Li Hong , Li Tingting , Ma Haiqiong , Gao Chenghai , Zhang Siyuan , Liu Yonghong , Zhao Longyan
Published: March 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the prebiotic potential of Chlorella pyrenoidosa polysaccharides to provide useful information for developing C. pyrenoidosa as a green healthy food. C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides were prepared and their physicochemical characteristics were determined. The digestibility and fermentation characteristics of C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides were evaluated using in vitro models. The results revealed that C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides were composed of five non-starch polysaccharide fractions with monosaccharide compositions of Man, Rib, Rha, GlcA, Glc, Gal, Xyl and Ara. C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides could not be degraded under saliva and the gastrointestinal conditions. However, the molecular weight and contents of residual carbohydrates and reducing sugars of C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides were significantly reduced after fecal fermentation at a moderate speed. Notably, C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides could remarkably modulate gut microbiota, including the promotion of beneficial bacteria, inhibition of growth of harmful bacteria, and reduction of the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Intriguingly, C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides can promote growth of Parabacteroides distasonis and increase short-chain fatty acid contents, thereby probably contributing to the promotion of intestinal health and prevention of diseases. Thus, these results suggested that C. pyrenoidosa polysaccharides had prebiotic functions with different fermentation characteristics compared with conventional prebiotics such as fructooligosaccharide, and they may be a new prebiotic for improving human health.
Physicochemical Properties and Whey Proteomes of Camel Milk Powders Produced by Different Concentration and Dehydration Processes
Authors: Zou Zhengzheng , Duley John A. , Cowley David M. , Reed Sarah , Arachchige Buddhika J. , Bhandari Bhesh , Shaw Paul N. , Bansal Nidhi
Published: March 2022

Camel milk powder production is an alternative to preserve the perishable milk for later-date consumption. However, the impacts of dehydration processes on bioactive compounds in camel milk are largely unknown. Hence, the present study attempted to compare the physicochemical properties and protein profiles of camel milk powders produced by different concentration and dehydration processes. Six camel milk powders were produced by freeze- and spray-drying methods in conjunction with two liquid concentration techniques, namely spray dewatering and reverse osmosis. The results of proteomic analysis showed that direct freeze-dried camel milk powder had the least changes in protein profile, followed by direct spray-dried powder. The camel milk powders that underwent concentration processes had more profound changes in their protein profiles. Among the bioactive proteins identified, lactotransferrin and oxidase/peroxidase had the most significant decreases in concentration following processing. On the contrary, glycosylation-dependent cell adhesion molecule 1, peptidoglycan recognition protein 1, and osteopontin increased in concentration. The results revealed that direct freeze drying was the most ideal method for preserving the bioactive proteins during camel milk powder production. However, the freeze-drying technique has cost and scalability constraints, and the current spray-drying technique needs improvement to better retain the bioactivity of camel milk during powder processing.
Microwave- and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Cucurbitane-Type Triterpenoids from Momordica charantia L. Cultivars and Their Antiproliferative Effect on SAS Human Oral Cancer Cells
Authors: Lee Yu-Tsung , Pao Li-Heng , Chen Chi-Yuan , Huang Sui-Qing , Kumaran Alaganandam , Chyuan Jong-Ho , Chiu Chun-Hui
Published: March 2022

Cucurbitane-type triterpenoids are a major class of bioactive compounds present in bitter melon. In the present study, six different cultivars of bitter melon were extracted by using microwave- or ultrasound-assisted techniques to identify the prominent method that can extract the majority of cucurbitane-type triterpenoids. A UHPLC–MS/MS (ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry) system was used for the identification and quantification of ten cucurbitane-type triterpenoids. The results suggest that the use of microwave-assisted extraction on cultivars 4 and 5 produced higher amounts of the selected cucurbitane-type triterpenoids. The interpretation of principal component analysis also identified that cultivar 4 is significantly different from the others in which the compounds 3β,7β,25-trihydroxycucurbita-5,23(E)-dien-19-al and momordicine I were found in higher quantities. Upon further evaluation, it was also identified that these two triterpenoids can act as antiproliferative agents due to their effects on SAS human oral cancer cell lines.
Post-Mortem Quantitation of Amphetamine in Cadaveric Fluids in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Asmari Ahmed I. , Al-Solami Faiz D. , Al-Zahrani Abdulnasser E. , Zughaibi Torki A.
Published: March 2022

Amphetamine abuse is a known problem in Saudi Arabia; it is estimated that 40% of drug abusers misuse amphetamines. Here, our aim was to perform an up-to-date epidemiological study of amphetamine-related postmortem cases in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in which 235 postmortem cases were included. The largest number of cases was recorded for the groups aged between 31 and 40 years (86 cases) and the lowest number of cases was recorded for the group aged between 61 and 70 years old (5 cases). Amphetamine was co-ingested with other drug(s) in 55% of the total cases (blood with sodium fluoride (BN), median, 0.3 mg/L). Approximately 23% of all deaths were due to other co-ingested drugs (BN, median, 0.2 mg/L). Amphetamines alone were detected in 107 cases, (BN, median, 0.5 mg/L). Amphetamine was the sole cause of death in 16% of the studied cases (BN, median, 1.0 mg/L). The combination of amphetamine and a pre-existing disease were observed in 9.4% of all deaths (BN, median, 0.7 mg/L). The causes of death were determined to be accidental in the majority (47%) of cases, homicides in 26% of cases, suicides in 11% of cases, and unknown in 7% of cases. This is the first discussion of the amphetamine concentration in bile in amphetamine-related deaths, the relationship between amphetamine concentration in different bodily fluids, and the amphetamine concentration in putrefied corpses. This study concluded that amphetamine abuse in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, increased over 400% between 2012 and 2018, and 41% of these cases involved violence. This result also suggests that preventive programs targeting youth and adolescent students are required to keep schools and universities free from drugs, especially amphetamines.
Genome-Wide Association Study Adjusted for Occupational and Environmental Factors for Bladder Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Takeuchi Takumi , Hattori-Kato Mami , Okuno Yumiko , Zaitsu Masayoshi , Azuma Takeshi
Published: March 2022

This study examined the effects of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the development of bladder cancer, adding longest-held occupational and industrial history as regulators. The genome purified from blood was genotyped, followed by SNP imputation. In the genome-wide association study (GWAS), several patterns of industrial/occupational classifications were added to logistic regression models. The association test between bladder cancer development and the calculated genetic score for each gene region was evaluated (gene-wise analysis). In the GWAS and gene-wise analysis, the gliomedin gene satisfied both suggestive association levels of 10−5 in the GWAS and 10−4 in the gene-wise analysis for male bladder cancer. The expression of the gliomedin protein in the nucleus of bladder cancer cells decreased in cancers with a tendency to infiltrate and those with strong cell atypia. It is hypothesized that gliomedin is involved in the development of bladder cancer.
Effects of an Eye-Tracking Linkage Attention Training System on Cognitive Function Compared to Conventional Computerized Cognitive Training System in Patients with Stroke
Authors: Moon Sung-Jun , Park Chan-Hee , Jung Sang In , Yu Ja-Won , Son Eun-Chul , Lee Hye Na , Jeong Hyeonggi , Jang Sueun , Park Eunhee , Jung Tae-Du
Published: March 2022

Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of an eye-tracking linkage attention training system on cognitive function compared to a conventional computerized cognitive training system in stroke patients with cognitive impairment. Methods: This retrospective study was enrolled 40 stroke patients who received cognitive rehabilitation. The intervention consisted of 30 sessions and 30 min per session. Before and after the intervention, we assessed cognitive functions by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-K) and activities of daily living by Modified Barthel Index (K-MBI) and administered a computerized neuropsychological test (CNT). Results: In both groups, there were significant improvements in MMSE-K and K-MBI (p < 0.05). In the visual and auditory attention test of the CNT, the eye-tracking linkage attention training group was significantly improved after intervention (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the conventional computerized cognitive training group. In addition, there were significant improvements in all memory tests of the CNT in the eye-tracking linkage attention training group. However, in the conventional computerized cognitive training group, there were significant improvements in some memory tests of the CNT. Conclusions: The training of poststroke cognitive impairment patients using an eye-tracking linkage attention training system may improve visuospatial attention and may be helpful for the improvement of short-term memory and independent performances in daily life activities.
Comparison of Different Self-Sampling Devices for Molecular Detection of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): A Pilot Study
Authors: Sechi Illari , Cocuzza Clementina , Martinelli Marianna , Muresu Narcisa , Castriciano Santina , Sotgiu Giovanni , Piana Andrea
Published: March 2022

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, and it is well known that high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infections are the necessary carcinogenic factors for the development of cervical tumors. Moreover, the interaction between HPV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may increase the risk of cancer progression. Self-sampling has been demonstrated to represent a valid and well-accepted alternative, favoring women’s participation in screening programs. This study aimed to investigate the use of FLOQSwabs® (FS) as compared to two other vaginal self-collection devices for the detection of hrHPV and other sexually transmitted infections. Methods: Cervical and vaginal self-samples were collected, using two different combinations of vaginal self-sampling devices, from 40 women referred to colposcopy for a documented abnormal Pap smear. All samples were tested for hrHPV and seven STI pathogens using two commercial molecular assays. Results: Data on hrHPV detection from the first group of women showed an almost perfect agreement (kappa: 0.89) between cervical vs. FS vaginal self-samples, and a substantial agreement (kappa: 0.79) between cervical and HerSwab™ (HS) samples. In the second group of women, an almost perfect agreement (kappa: 0.90) was demonstrated in the detection of hrHPV between cervical samples vs. FS, and a moderate agreement (kappa: 0.60) for cervical vs. Evalyn®Brush (EB) self-collected samples. STI detections showed a very good agreement (kappa: 0.89 and kappa: 1.00) both among FS vs. HS and FS vs. EB, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the different devices used. The most frequently detected hrHPV genotypes in the studied population were HPV 16, 31, 35, 51, and 56; whilst the most frequently identified STI pathogens were Ureaplasma parvum and Mycoplasma hominis. Overall, investigated women did not report any discomfort in using the different vaginal self-collection devices. Conclusion: Evaluation of the three different vaginal self-collection devices confirmed their overall good acceptability by the studied population, as well as a similar agreement for hrHPV detection as compared to cervical samples. Our study indicated that the use of self-collected samples offers an alternative strategy to improve women’s participation in cervical cancer screening programs, but also underlined the importance of evaluating the concordance in hrHPV detection of collection devices in combination with the molecular hrHPV assay.
Epidemiological Algorithm for Early Detection of COVID-19 Cases in a Mexican Oncologic Center
Authors: González-Escamilla Moisés , Pérez-Ibave Diana Cristina , Burciaga-Flores Carlos Horacio , Ortiz-Murillo Vanessa Natali , Ramírez-Correa Genaro A. , Rodríguez-Niño Patricia , Piñeiro-Retif Rafael , Rodríguez-Gutiérrez Hazyadee Frecia , Alcorta-Nuñez Fernando , González-Guerrero Juan Francisco , Vidal-Gutiérrez Oscar , Garza-Rodríguez María Lourdes
Published: March 2022

An early detection tool for latent COVID-19 infections in oncology staff and patients is essential to prevent outbreaks in a cancer center. (1) Background: In this study, we developed and implemented two early detection tools for the radiotherapy area to identify COVID-19 cases opportunely. (2) Methods: Staff and patients answered a questionnaire (electronic and paper surveys, respectively) with clinical and epidemiological information. The data were collected through two online survey tools: Real-Time Tracking (R-Track) and Summary of Factors (S-Facts). Cut-off values were established according to the algorithm models. SARS-CoV-2 qRT-PCR tests confirmed the positive algorithms individuals. (3) Results: Oncology staff members (n = 142) were tested, and 14% (n = 20) were positives for the R-Track algorithm; 75% (n = 15) were qRT-PCR positive. The S-Facts Algorithm identified 7.75% (n = 11) positive oncology staff members, and 81.82% (n = 9) were qRT-PCR positive. Oncology patients (n = 369) were evaluated, and 1.36% (n = 5) were positive for the Algorithm used. The five patients (100%) were confirmed by qRT-PCR. (4) Conclusions: The proposed early detection tools have proved to be a low-cost and efficient tool in a country where qRT-PCR tests and vaccines are insufficient for the population.
Outcomes of Acute Coronary Syndrome in Hospitalized Patients with Celiac Disease, a United States Nationwide Experience
Authors: Gupta Kamesh , Sawalha Khalid , Pundlik Shayal , Abozenah Mohammad , Naseem Khadija , Al-Akchar Mohammad , Khan Ahmad
Published: March 2022

Background: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Coronary artery disease alone accounted for approximately 13% of deaths in the US in 2016. Some studies have suggested an increased prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in chronic inflammatory conditions, such as celiac disease (CD). Chronic subclinical systemic inflammation, decreased absorption of cardio-protective nutrients and drugs have all been postulated as the driving mechanisms for this increased risk of CAD. Methods: We reviewed a Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2007 to 2017, using Acute Coronary syndrome as a principal diagnosis with CD as the secondary diagnosis, utilizing validated ICD-9-CM and ICD-10 codes. We examined the annual trends in the number of cases and hospitalization charges yearly and used survey regression to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for hospital mortality and other outcomes. Results: We identified a total of 8,036,307 ACS hospitalizations from 2007 to 2017, of which 5917 (0.07%) had a diagnosis for CD. The proportion of patients with CD in ACS hospitalizations increased from 0.015% in 2007 to 0.076% in 2017. These patients were significantly older (70.3 vs. 67.4 years, p < 0.02), more likely female (51.9% vs. 39.5%, p < 0.01), and more likely to be white (93.8% vs. 76.6%; p < 0.01) than ACS patients without CD. After adjusting for age, gender, race, Charlson Comorbidity index and hospital level characteristics, ACS hospitalizations for CD patients had a lower odds ratio for hospital mortality (aOR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.23–0.67; p < 0.01). Additionally, length of stay in this patient population was shorter (4.53 vs. 4.84 days, p < 0.01) but the mean hospitalization charges were higher (USD 64,058 vs. USD 60,223, p < 0.01). Conclusion: We found that the number of ACS-related admissions in CD patients has risen more than five-fold between 2007 and 2017. However, the odds of in-hospital mortality in these patients is not higher than patients without CD. The results of our study demonstrate that although the systemic inflammation related to CD is associated with an increasing prevalence of ACS hospitalizations, on the contrary, the mortality rate is significantly higher in patients without celiac disease.
Valorization of Hazelnut Shells as Growing Substrate for Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms
Authors: Puliga Federico , Leonardi Pamela , Minutella Francesco , Zambonelli Alessandra , Francioso Ornella
Published: March 2022

Recently, the cultivation of hazel is undergoing a large expansion. Italy is the world’s second largest producer of hazelnuts, with a production of around 98,530 tons in 2019. The processing of hazelnuts produces large amounts of waste, especially woody pericarps, due to the cracking process, generally used for domestic heating, causing air pollution. The high lignin content present in the pericarps makes them a suitable substrate for the cultivation of edible and medicinal mushrooms. To this aim, Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, and Pleurotus cornucopiae were grown and cultivated on different hazelnut-shell-based substrates: Hazelnut Shell (HS), Hazelnut Shell and Wheat Straw (HS-WS), and Wheat Straw mixed with Beech Chips (WS-BC) as control. In vitro mycelial grow rate, the degradation capacity of the lignocellulosic fraction, the biological efficiency, and the qualitative differences between mushrooms growing on different substrates by using Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy were investigated. Our results suggested the ability of G. lucidum, L. edodes, and P. cornucopiae to grow and decay the lignocellulosic fraction of HS. Cultivation trials showed a similar biological efficiency but a different Fruiting Body Production (FBP) in the presence of HS with respect to the control. ATR-FTIR analysis provided a chemical insight for the examined fruiting bodies, and differences were found among the substrates studied. These results provide attractive perspectives both for more sustainable management and for the improvement of mushroom cultivation efficiency.
Prevalence of High Bleeding Risk among Hospitalized Suspected NSTEMI Patients
Authors: Kesti Henri , Mäkinen Henna , Mattila Kalle , Jaakkola Samuli , Lintu Mikko , Porela Pekka
Published: March 2022

In recent years, guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) have placed more emphasis on identifying patients at high bleeding risk (HBR). We set out to investigate the prevalence of HBR patients according to the Academic Research Consortium for High Bleeding Risk (ARC–HBR) criteria in hospitalized patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Consecutive patients were retrospectively enrolled between January and June 2019 from the emergency department (ED) of a tertiary hospital. The discharge diagnosis and baseline data were manually collected using electronic patient records and database searches. Patients with non-cardiac diagnoses were excluded. Overall, 212 patients were included in the study. A total of 146 (68.9%) patients were diagnosed with NSTEMI (Type 1), 47 (22.2%) with unstable angina pectoris (UAP) and 19 (9.0%) with “other.” HBR was detected in 47.6% (n = 101) of all patients. Common criteria for HBR among ACS patients were age (40.4%), chronic kidney disease (33.7%), and the use of oral anticoagulation medicines (20.2%). In conclusion, nearly half of the patients hospitalized for ACS fulfilled HBR criteria. According to contemporary guidelines, the management of HBR patients differs from that of non-HBR patients, and thus, a more comprehensive screening for HBR may be considered in clinical practice.
A Better Cardiopulmonary Fitness Is Associated with Improved Concentration Level and Health-Related Quality of Life in Primary School Children
Authors: Köble Katharina , Postler Tanja , Oberhoffer-Fritz Renate , Schulz Thorsten
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to examine the physical fitness (PF) levels of primary school children and to determine the associations among PF, concentration, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in a subcohort. PF was assessed in 6533 healthy primary school-age children (aged 6–10 years, 3248 boys and 3285 girls) via standardized test batteries. Concentration was measured with the d2-R test, and KINDL questionnaires were used to determine HRQOL. Analysis of variance showed an increase in PF with age in all PF dimensions (all p < 0.001), except cardiopulmonary fitness (estimated VO2max) in girls (p = 0.129). Boys performed better in nearly all PF dimensions, except curl-ups, in all children aged ≥7 years (p < 0.05). Concentration levels increased in boys and girls aged 7–9 years (p < 0.001), whereas HRQOL did not (p = 0.179). The estimated VO2max had a strong impact on concentration (β = 0.16, p < 0.001) and HRQOL (β = 0.21, p < 0.001) in 9- to 10-year-olds. Cardiopulmonary fitness is important for improved concentration and better HRQOL in primary school-age children. However, longitudinal data are needed to provide further insight into the intraindividual relationships of PF and concentration over the course of child development and set up targeted prevention programs.
Morphology and Vessel Density of the Macula in Preterm Children Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Czeszyk Agnieszka , Hautz Wojciech , Jaworski Maciej , Bulsiewicz Dorota , Czech-Kowalska Justyna
Published: March 2022

Background: Retinal morphology changes may be associated with prematurity and can lead to visual impairment. Optical coherence tomography angiography may contribute to understanding the pathomechanism of structural and vascular retinal impairment in premature children. The aim of this study was to assess an influence of prematurity, neonatal clinical characteristics, and a history of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) on the morphology and retinal vascularity of macula in children. Methods: A case–control study of 123 preterm children and 86 full-term children was performed. The age of the subjects was 10.45 years (IQR: 8.12–12.77), while the age of the control group was 11.78 years (IQR: 8.81–13.79). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA, angio-OCT) were performed using RTVueXR Avanti (Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA). Ganglion cell complex (GCC), foveal thickness (FT), parafoveal thickness (PFT), size of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in superficial plexus, superficial capillary vessel density (sVD), deep capillary vessel density (dVD), central choroidal thickness (CCT), and presence of macular hypoplasia were analyzed. The association between OCT/angio-OCT results and clinical characteristics including the degree of ROP and therapy requirements was assessed in preterm infants. Results: Foveal morphology was affected in preterm children with high incidence of foveal hypoplasia (24.77%). GCC was thinner in preterm children compared to controls: avgGG 93 μm vs. 100 μm, p < 0.001. No associations between GCC and gestational age (R = −0.085; p = 0.228) and birth weight (R = −0.054; p = 0.446) were found. FAZ in preterm group was smaller than in controls (0.13 ± 0.09 vs. 0.22 ± 0.09; p < 0.001). FAZ area correlated with gestational age (R = 0.456; p < 0.001) and birth weight (R = 0.472; p < 0.001). Deep vessel density in the fovea was higher in preterm children than in control group (p < 0.001). PFT was significantly lower in preterm children compared to control group. However, increased thickness in the fovea was noted in preterm children (p < 0.001). FT was inversely correlated with gestational age (R = −0.562; p < 0.001) and birth weight (R = −0.508, p < 0.001). CCT was lower in preterm children (312 μm vs. 337.5 μm, p < 0.001) Parameters of GCC and FT were higher in patients with ROP required treatment compared to patients without ROP and spontaneously regressed retinopathy. FAZ was smaller in patients with retinopathy than in preterm children without ROP. Conclusion: Prematurity has a significant negative impact on GCC, macular morphology, and vascularization. In premature children, decreased FAZ, increased FT, and vessel density were strongly associated with gestational age, birth weight, Apgar score, ROP stage, and treatment requirement. Optical coherence tomography angiography is a useful tool for detecting retinal changes in premature children.
Innovative Medial Cushioning Orthoses Affect Peroneus Longus Electromyographic Activity during Running
Authors: Sanchez-Gomez Ruben , Gomez-Carrion Alvaro , Martinez-Sebastian Carlos , Alou Luis , Sevillano David , Nuñez-Fernandez Almudena , Sanz-Wozniak Paola , de la Cruz-Torres Blanca
Published: March 2022

Background: Over-supination processes of the foot and ankle involving peroneus longus (PL) damage during running sports have been treated conservatively with passive control tools, such as tapes, braces, or external ankle supports, but the effect of orthoses with typical lateral wedging orthoses (TLWO) on the muscular activity of PL during running remains unclear. Here we investigate the effects of innovative medial cushioning orthoses (IMCO) on PL activity during the full running gait cycle. In addition, we wished to ascertain the effects of innovative medial cushioning orthoses (IMCO) on PL activity during running. Methods: Thirty-one healthy recreational runners (mean age 34.5 ± 3.33) with neutral foot posture index scores, were selected to participate in the present study. They ran on a treadmill at 9 km/h wearing seven different orthoses (NRS, IMCO 3 mm, IMCO 6 mm, IMCO 9 mm, TLWO 3 mm, TLWO 6 mm and TLWO 9 mm), randomly performed on the same day while electromyographic activity of the PL muscle was recorded. Statistical intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to test reliability was carried out and the Wilcoxon test with Bonferroni’s correction was developed to analyze the differences between the conditions. Results: the reliability of all assessments showed data higher than 0.81, that is, “almost perfect reliability”; all EMG PL values wearing either TLWO or IMCO showed a statistically significant reduction versus NRS during the fully analyzed running gait cycle; the highest difference was set on NRS 23.08 ± 6.67 to TLWO 9 mm 17.77 ± 4.794 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Muscular EMG activity of the PL during the full running gait cycle decreases when wearing either TLWO or IMCO relative to NRS; therefore, these orthoses could be prescribed to treat the strain and overload pathologies of PL. In addition, IMCO—as it less thick, compared with TLWO—can be used when aiming to achieve better running economy.
Thyroid Function Alteration in Obesity and the Effect of Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Cordido María , Juiz-Valiña Paula , Urones Paula , Sangiao-Alvarellos Susana , Cordido Fernando
Published: March 2022

The most common endocrine disease in obesity is hypothyroidism and secondary endocrine alterations, including abnormal thyroid function, are frequent in obesity. It is unclear whether impaired thyroid function is the cause or the consequence of increased adiposity; furthermore, there are no clear data regarding the best way to dose levothyroxine for patients with both hypothyroidism and obesity, and the effect of bariatric surgery (BS). The aim of the present article is to review some controversial aspects of the relation between obesity and the thyroid: (1) Thyroid function in obesity and the effect of BS (2) Thyroid hormone treatment (THT) in obese patients with hypothyroidism and the effect of BS. In summary: In morbidly obese patients, TSH is moderately increased. Morbid obesity has a mild central resistance to the thyroid hormone, reversible with weight loss. In morbidly obese hypothyroid patients, following weight loss, the levothyroxine dose/kg of ideal weight did not change, albeit there was an increment in the levothyroxine dose/kg of actual weight. From a clinical practice perspective, in morbid obesity, diagnosing mild hypothyroidism is difficult, BS improves the altered thyroid function and THT can be adapted better if it is based on ideal weight.
Yearly Incidence of Stroke and Bleeding in Atrial Fibrillation with Concomitant Hyperthyroidism: A National Discharge Database Study
Authors: Zhang Juqian , Bisson Arnaud , Fauchier Grégoire , Bodin Alexandre , Herbert Julien , Ducluzeau Pierre Henri , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Fauchier Laurent
Published: March 2022

Background: Hyperthyroidism is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), and the latter is a major risk factor for stroke. Aim: We aimed to investigate the yearly incidence of stroke and bleeding in AF patients with and without concomitant hyperthyroidism from the French National Hospital Discharge Database. Methods: Admissions with AF between January 2010 and December 2019 were retrospectively identified and retrieved from the French national database. Incidence rates of ischaemic stroke and bleeding were compared in AF patients with and without concomitant hyperthyroidism. The associations of risk factors with ischaemic stroke were assessed by Cox regression. Results: Overall 2,421,087 AF patients, among whom 32,400 had concomitant hyperthyroidism were included in the study. During the follow-up (mean: 2.0 years, standard deviation SD: 2.2 years), the yearly incidence of ischaemic stroke was noted to be 2.6 (95% confidence interval CI: 2.5–2.8) in AF patients with concomitant hyperthyroidism, and 2.3 (95%CI: 2.3–2.4) in non-thyroid AF patients. Hyperthyroidism was noted as an independent risk factor for ischaemic stroke (adjusted hazard ratio aHR: 1.133, 95%CI: 1.080–1.189) overall, particularly within the first year of hyperthyroidism diagnosis (aHR 1.203, 95%CI 1.120–1.291), however, the association became non-significant in subsequent years (aHR 1.047, 95%CI 0.980–1.118). Major bleeding incidence was lower in the hyperthyroid AF group in comparison to the non-thyroid AF group (incidence ratio: 5.1 vs. 5.4%/year, p < 0.001). The predictive value of CHA2DS2VASc and HAS-BLED scores for ischaemic stroke and bleeding events, respectively, did not differ significantly between AF patients with or without concomitant hyperthyroidism. Conclusions: Hyperthyroidism seems to be an independent risk factor of ischaemic stroke in AF patients, particularly within the first year of hyperthyroidism diagnosis.
Capsid Assembly Modulators as Antiviral Agents against HBV: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Perspectives
Authors: Taverniti Valerio , Ligat Gaëtan , Debing Yannick , Kum Dieudonne Buh , Baumert Thomas F. , Verrier Eloi R.
Published: March 2022

Despite a preventive vaccine being available, more than 250 million people suffer from chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, a major cause of liver disease and HCC. HBV infects human hepatocytes where it establishes its genome, the cccDNA with chromosomal features. Therapies controlling HBV replication exist; however, they are not sufficient to eradicate HBV cccDNA, the main cause for HBV persistence in patients. Core protein is the building block of HBV nucleocapsid. This viral protein modulates almost every step of the HBV life cycle; hence, it represents an attractive target for the development of new antiviral therapies. Capsid assembly modulators (CAM) bind to core dimers and perturb the proper nucleocapsid assembly. The potent antiviral activity of CAM has been demonstrated in cell-based and in vivo models. Moreover, several CAMs have entered clinical development. The aim of this review is to summarize the mechanism of action (MoA) and the advancements in the clinical development of CAMs and in the characterization of their mod of action.
Human Amniotic Membrane for the Treatment of Cryptoglandular Anal Fistulas
Authors: Ratto Carlo , Parolini Ornella , Marra Angelo Alessandro , Orticelli Valentina , Parello Angelo , Campennì Paola , De Simone Veronica , Trojan Diletta , Litta Francesco
Published: March 2022

Background: Implantation of the amniotic membrane and their derivatives can have a beneficial effect on tissue repair and regeneration. We report for the first time the implant of an amniotic membrane in a patient affected by cryptoglandular anal fistula. Methods: A patch of human amniotic membrane was implanted in a female patient affected by an anterior transphincteric fistula. Following an accurate curettage of the anal fistula, the cryopreserved amniotic membrane was thawed and then washed in the operating room; one side of the membrane was transfixed with a resorbable suture thus creating an implantable fusiform patch. The membrane was subsequently implanted into the fistula tract from the external to the internal opening. The inner and outer parts of the membrane were then sutured to the internal and external fistula openings. Results: No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. The patient was discharged one day after the procedure after an uneventful hospitalization. At the 1-week, 1- and 3-month follow-up visits no pain (VAS 0) was referred by the patient and no inflammation was evident at the level of the previous external fistula opening. Conclusions: The implant of human amniotic membrane in a patient affected by cryptoglandular anal fistula was safely and easily performed. Moreover, future studies to assess the efficacy in the long-term follow-up are needed.
Congenital Zika Syndrome: Genetic Avenues for Diagnosis and Therapy, Possible Management and Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Gullo Giuseppe , Scaglione Marco , Cucinella Gaspare , Riva Arianna , Coldebella Davide , Cavaliere Anna Franca , Signore Fabrizio , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Spagnol Giulia , Laganà Antonio Simone , Noventa Marco , Zaami Simona
Published: March 2022

Zika virus (ZIKV) was discovered in Uganda in 1947 and was originally isolated only in Africa and Asia. After a spike of microcephaly cases in Brazil, research has closely focused on different aspects of congenital ZIKV infection. In this review, we evaluated many aspects of the disease in order to build its natural history, with a focus on the long-term clinical and neuro-radiological outcomes in children. The authors have conducted a wide-ranging search spanning the 2012–2021 period from databases PubMed, PubMed Central, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus. Different sections reflect different points of congenital ZIKV infection syndrome: pathogenesis, prenatal diagnosis, clinical signs, neuroimaging and long-term developmental outcomes. It emerged that pathogenesis has not been fully clarified and that the clinical signs are not only limited to microcephaly. Given the current absence of treatments, we proposed schemes to optimize diagnostic protocols in endemic countries. It is essential to know the key aspects of this disease to guarantee early diagnosis, even in less severe cases, and an adequate management of the main chronic problems. Considering the relatively recent discovery of this congenital infectious syndrome, further studies and updated long-term follow-up are needed to further improve management strategies for this disease.
Detection of Vulnerable Coronary Plaques Using Invasive and Non-Invasive Imaging Modalities
Authors: van Veelen Anna , van der Sangen Niels M. R. , Delewi Ronak , Beijk Marcel A. M. , Henriques Jose P. S. , Claessen Bimmer E. P. M.
Published: March 2022

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) mostly arises from so-called vulnerable coronary plaques, particularly prone for rupture. Vulnerable plaques comprise a specific type of plaque, called the thin-cap fibroatheroma (TFCA). A TCFA is characterized by a large lipid-rich necrotic core, a thin fibrous cap, inflammation, neovascularization, intraplaque hemorrhage, microcalcifications or spotty calcifications, and positive remodeling. Vulnerable plaques are often not visible during coronary angiography. However, different plaque features can be visualized with the use of intracoronary imaging techniques, such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), potentially with the addition of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), or optical coherence tomography (OCT). Non-invasive imaging techniques, such as computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and nuclear imaging, can be used as an alternative for these invasive imaging techniques. These invasive and non-invasive imaging modalities can be implemented for screening to guide primary or secondary prevention therapies, leading to a more patient-tailored diagnostic and treatment strategy. Systemic pharmaceutical treatment with lipid-lowering or anti-inflammatory medication leads to plaque stabilization and reduction of cardiovascular events. Additionally, ongoing studies are investigating whether modification of vulnerable plaque features with local invasive treatment options leads to plaque stabilization and subsequent cardiovascular risk reduction.
Decreased Serum Levels of SIRT1 and SIRT3 Correlate with Severity of Skin and Lung Fibrosis and Peripheral Microvasculopathy in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Manetti Mirko , Rosa Irene , Fioretto Bianca Saveria , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Romano Eloisa
Published: March 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a severe autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by widespread peripheral microvasculopathy, and progressive cutaneous and visceral fibrosis, leading to significant organ dysfunction. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a family of NAD-dependent protein deacetylases with pleiotropic effects on a variety of biological processes, including metabolism, cell survival, and aging. In the last decades, increasing studies have explored the contribution of SIRTs to the pathogenesis of SSc, highlighting a significant antifibrotic effect of both SIRT1 and SIRT3. On these bases, the aim of this study was to measure circulating SIRT1 and SIRT3 levels by enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay in a well-characterized cohort of SSc patients (n = 80) and healthy controls (n = 71), focusing on their possible association with disease clinical features, and their potential as biomarkers reflecting SSc activity and severity. Significantly decreased serum levels of both SIRT1 and SIRT3 were found in SSc patients compared to controls. In SSc, the reduction in circulating SIRT1 and SIRT3 associated with a greater extent of cutaneous fibrosis, presence of interstitial lung disease, and worse pulmonary function. Serum SIRT1 and SIRT3 decrease also correlated with the severity of nailfold microvascular damage, with SIRT3 levels being additionally related to the occurrence of digital ulcers. The levels of these two proteins showed a direct correlation with one another in the circulation of SSc patients. Of the two SIRTs, serum SIRT3 was found to better reflect disease activity and severity in a logistic regression analysis model. Our findings suggest that serum SIRT1 and SIRT3 may represent novel potential biomarkers of increased risk for a more severe, life-threatening SSc disease course.
Quantifying Estuarine Hydrometeorological Coastal Hazards Using a Combined Field Observation and Modeling Approach
Authors: Dohner Stephanie M. , DuVal Carter B.
Published: March 2022

Coastal development and its associated site management have rapidly expanded to estuarine environments while continuing to increase worldwide. With the growth of coastal management projects, field observations are required to understand how anthropogenic construction, coastal defense, environmental restoration, and conservation areas will react to the typical, extreme, and long-term conditions at the proposed sites. To address these unknowns, we present a multi-faceted coastal risk assessment of a unique, recently nourished estuarine beach near the mouth of the Delaware Bay Estuary by merging rapid-response remote sensing platforms, hydrodynamic models, and publically available monitoring datasets. Specifically, hydrometeorological events from 2015 to 2019 were the focus of peak-over-threshold statistics, event type definition, and clustered event interval determination. The 95th percentile thresholds were determined to be the following: 0.84 m for the significant wave height, 13.5 m/s for the 10-m elevation wind speed, and 0.4 m for the total water level residuals. Tropical and extra-tropical cyclones, light gales, or cold and stationary fronts proved to be the meteorological causes of the sediment mobility, inducing the hydrodynamics at the site. Using these event types and exceedance instances, clustered meteorological events were defined as having an interval greater than twelve hours but less than five days to be considered clustered. Clustered events were observed to cause greater volumetric change than individual events, and are currently underrepresented in coastal risk planning and response in the region. Coastal monitoring field measurements should consider clustered events when conducting post-hazardous or erosional event response surveys. This work highlights the importance of clustered hydrometeorological events causing estuarine coastal risk, and how to quantify these effects through combined field observations and modeling approaches.
Genome Sequencing and Analysis of Trichoderma (Hypocreaceae) Isolates Exhibiting Antagonistic Activity against the Papaya Dieback Pathogen, Erwinia mallotivora
Authors: Tamizi Amin-Asyraf , Mat-Amin Noriha , Weaver Jack A. , Olumakaiye Richard T. , Akbar Muhamad Afiq , Jin Sophie , Bunawan Hamidun , Alberti Fabrizio
Published: March 2022

Erwinia mallotivora, the causal agent of papaya dieback disease, is a devastating pathogen that has caused a tremendous decrease in Malaysian papaya export and affected papaya crops in neighbouring countries. A few studies on bacterial species capable of suppressing E. mallotivora have been reported, but the availability of antagonistic fungi remains unknown. In this study, mycelial suspensions from five rhizospheric Trichoderma isolates of Malaysian origin were found to exhibit notable antagonisms against E. mallotivora during co-cultivation. We further characterised three isolates, Trichoderma koningiopsis UKM-M-UW RA5, UKM-M-UW RA6, and UKM-M-UW RA3a, that showed significant growth inhibition zones on plate-based inhibition assays. A study of the genomes of the three strains through a combination of Oxford nanopore and Illumina sequencing technologies highlighted potential secondary metabolite pathways that might underpin their antimicrobial properties. Based on these findings, the fungal isolates are proven to be useful as potential biological control agents against E. mallotivora, and the genomic data opens possibilities to further explore the underlying molecular mechanisms behind their antimicrobial activity, with potential synthetic biology applications.
Basic Research in Atherosclerosis: Technologies of Personalized Medicine
Authors: Ragino Yuliya , Striukova Evgeniia , Shakhtshneider Elena
Published: March 2022

The first national conference with international participation, “Fundamental aspects of atherosclerosis: scientific research for improving the technologies of personalized medicine”, was held in Novosibirsk on 15 October 2021 [...]
Risk of Heart Failure in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Receiving Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation and Undefined Duration of Antiplatelets
Authors: Chien Li-Nien , Chen Chun-Chao , Chang Ya-Hui , Yu Fa-Chang , Tsai Chen-Ting , Liu Hung-Yi , Yeh Hung-I , Lin Chao-Feng
Published: March 2022

It remains unknown as to whether the use of new-generation drug-eluting stent (NG-DES) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who receive an undefined duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) reduces the risk of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF). In this population-based retrospective cohort study, we applied propensity score matching to select 6831 pairs of patients with STEMI who had similar baseline characteristics and received either NG-DES or bare-metal stent (BMS) implantation between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2016. The risk of stent-associated HHF was evaluated, wherein death was considered a competing risk. Rates of cumulative incidence competing risk for HHF at the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 year follow-up were lower in the NG-DES group (3.79%, 5.21%, 6.15%, 7.01%, and 8.29%, respectively) than in the BMS group (4.51%, 6.21%, 7.32%, 8.33%, and 9.83%, respectively). NG-DES implantation was associated with a lower risk of HHF than BMS implantation after 5 years, with an adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio of 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.72–0.92, p = 0.001). These results accord with those of patients who received DAPT for >6 months. Our findings highlight that NG-DESs may reduce HHF risk in patients with STEMI receiving an undefined duration of DAPT.