bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Galectin-3 as a Non-Invasive Marker for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Bajraktari Ganimete , Elger Tanja , Huss Muriel , Loibl Johanna , Albert Andreas , Kandulski Arne , Müller Martina , Tews Hauke Christian , Buechler Christa
Published: May 2024

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a serious liver disease associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Galectin-3, an inflammatory and fibrotic molecule, has elevated circulating levels in patients with chronic liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aims to clarify whether galectin-3 can differentiate between patients with IBD, PSC, and PSC-IBD. Our study measured serum galectin-3 levels in 38 healthy controls, 55 patients with IBD, and 22 patients with PSC (11 patients had underlying IBD and 11 patients did not), alongside the urinary galectin-3 of these patients and 18 controls. Serum and urinary galectin-3 levels in IBD patients were comparable to those in controls. Among IBD patients, those with high fecal calprotectin, indicating severe disease, exhibited lower serum and elevated urinary galectin-3 levels compared to those with low calprotectin levels. Serum galectin-3 levels were inversely correlated with C-reactive protein levels. PSC patients displayed higher serum and urinary galectin-3 levels than IBD patients, with the highest serum levels observed in PSC patients with coexisting IBD. There was no correlation between serum and urinary galectin-3 levels and laboratory indicators of liver injury in both IBD and PSC patients. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that serum and urinary galectin-3 levels can distinguish IBD from PSC patients, and also reveals higher serum galectin-3 levels in PSC-IBD patients compared to those with isolated PSC.
Paediatric Atopic Dermatitis: The Unexpected Impact on Life with a Specific Look at the Molecular Level
Authors: Artusa Silvia , Mazzuca Giorgia , Piacentini Giorgio , Castagnoli Riccardo , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Pietrobelli Angelo , Pecoraro Luca
Published: May 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a condition with a multifactorial aetiology that affects the skin. It most often begins at preschool age and involves the skin. The disease’s main symptom is intense itching, which occurs especially at night and affects the child’s sleep, negatively impacting the quality of life of affected children and, consequently, their families. The difficulty in resting during the night leads to many problems during the day, particularly behavioural disorders and difficulties in paying attention at school, which results in learning impairment. The unexpected symptoms of AD are caused by pathophysiological processes that include many molecular pathways and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-31, IL-1, IL-2, TNF-a, and IL-6. Drawing on a comprehensive review of the literature in PubMed/MedLine, our review offers an in-depth exploration of both the psychosocial impacts of AD and the molecular processes that contribute to this disorder.
Examination of the Complex Molecular Landscape in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vadadokhau Uladzislau , Varga Imre , Káplár Miklós , Emri Miklós , Csősz Éva
Published: May 2024

The escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, presents a critical global health challenge, necessitating deeper insights into their molecular underpinnings. Our study integrates proteomics and metabolomics analyses to delineate the complex molecular landscapes associated with T2D and obesity. Leveraging data from 130 subjects, including individuals with T2D and obesity as well as healthy controls, we elucidate distinct molecular signatures and identify novel biomarkers indicative of disease progression. Our comprehensive characterization of cardiometabolic proteins and serum metabolites unveils intricate networks of biomolecular interactions and highlights differential protein expression patterns between T2D and obesity cohorts. Pathway enrichment analyses reveal unique mechanisms underlying disease development and progression, while correlation analyses elucidate the interplay between proteomics, metabolomics, and clinical parameters. Furthermore, network analyses underscore the interconnectedness of cardiometabolic proteins and provide insights into their roles in disease pathogenesis. Our findings may help to refine diagnostic strategies and inform the development of personalized interventions, heralding a new era in precision medicine and healthcare innovation. Through the integration of multi-omics approaches and advanced analytics, our study offers a crucial framework for deciphering the intricate molecular underpinnings of metabolic disorders and paving the way for transformative therapeutic strategies.
Fetal Kidney Grafts and Organoids from Microminiature Pigs: Establishing a Protocol for Production and Long-Term Cryopreservation
Authors: Inage Yuka , Fujimori Koki , Takasu Masaki , Matsui Kenji , Kinoshita Yoshitaka , Morimoto Keita , Koda Nagisa , Yamamoto Shutaro , Shimada Kentaro , Yokoo Takashi , Kobayashi Eiji
Published: May 2024

Fetal organs and organoids are important tools for studying organ development. Recently, porcine organs have garnered attention as potential organs for xenotransplantation because of their high degree of similarity to human organs. However, to meet the prompt demand for porcine fetal organs by patients and researchers, effective methods for producing, retrieving, and cryopreserving pig fetuses are indispensable. Therefore, in this study, to collect fetuses for kidney extraction, we employed cesarean sections to preserve the survival and fertility of the mother pig and a method for storing fetal kidneys by long-term cryopreservation. Subsequently, we evaluated the utility of these two methods. We confirmed that the kidneys of pig fetuses retrieved by cesarean section that were cryopreserved for an extended period could resume renal growth when grafted into mice and were capable of forming renal organoids. These results demonstrate the usefulness of long-term cryopreserved fetal pig organs and strongly suggest the effectiveness of our comprehensive system of pig fetus retrieval and fetal organ preservation, thereby highlighting its potential as an accelerator of xenotransplantation research and clinical innovation.
In Vitro Evaluation of Phytobiotic Mixture Antibacterial Potential against Enterococcus spp. Strains Isolated from Broiler Chicken
Authors: Wódz Karolina , Chodkowska Karolina A. , Iwiński Hubert , Różański Henryk , Wojciechowski Jakub
Published: May 2024

Enterococcus spp. are normal intestinal tract microflorae found in poultry. However, the last decades have shown that several species, e.g., Enterococcus cecorum, have become emerging pathogens in broilers and may cause numerous losses in flocks. In this study, two combinations (H1 and H2) of menthol, 1,8-cineol, linalool, methyl salicylate, γ-terpinene, p-cymene, trans-anethole, terpinen-4-ol and thymol were used in an in vitro model, analyzing its effectiveness against the strains E. cecorum, E. faecalis, E. faecium, E. hirae and E. gallinarum isolated from broiler chickens from industrial farms. To identify the isolated strains classical microbiological methods and VITEK 2 GP cards were used. Moreover for E. cecorum a PCR test was used.. Antibiotic sensitivity (MIC) tests were performed for all the strains. For the composition H1, the effective dilution for E. cecorum and E. hirae strains was 1:512, and for E. faecalis, E. faecium and E. gallinarum, 1:1024. The second mixture (H2) showed very similar results with an effectiveness at 1:512 for E. cecorum and E. hirae and 1:1024 for E. faecalis, E. faecium and E. gallinarum. The presented results suggest that the proposed composition is effective against selected strains of Enterococcus in an in vitro model, and its effect is comparable to classical antibiotics used to treat this pathogen in poultry. This may suggest that this product may also be effective in vivo and provide effective support in the management of enterococcosis in broiler chickens.
Platelet Biorheology and Mechanobiology in Thrombosis and Hemostasis: Perspectives from Multiscale Computation
Authors: Tuna Rukiye , Yi Wenjuan , Crespo Cruz Esmeralda , Romero JP , Ren Yi , Guan Jingjiao , Li Yan , Deng Yuefan , Bluestein Danny , Liu Zixiang Leonardo , Sheriff Jawaad
Published: May 2024

Thrombosis is the pathological clot formation under abnormal hemodynamic conditions, which can result in vascular obstruction, causing ischemic strokes and myocardial infarction. Thrombus growth under moderate to low shear (<1000 s−1) relies on platelet activation and coagulation. Thrombosis at elevated high shear rates (>10,000 s−1) is predominantly driven by unactivated platelet binding and aggregating mediated by von Willebrand factor (VWF), while platelet activation and coagulation are secondary in supporting and reinforcing the thrombus. Given the molecular and cellular level information it can access, multiscale computational modeling informed by biology can provide new pathophysiological mechanisms that are otherwise not accessible experimentally, holding promise for novel first-principle-based therapeutics. In this review, we summarize the key aspects of platelet biorheology and mechanobiology, focusing on the molecular and cellular scale events and how they build up to thrombosis through platelet adhesion and aggregation in the presence or absence of platelet activation. In particular, we highlight recent advancements in multiscale modeling of platelet biorheology and mechanobiology and how they can lead to the better prediction and quantification of thrombus formation, exemplifying the exciting paradigm of digital medicine.
Heat-Stress Impacts on Developing Bovine Oocytes: Unraveling Epigenetic Changes, Oxidative Stress, and Developmental Resilience
Authors: Feng Xiaoyi , Li Chongyang , Zhang Hang , Zhang Peipei , Shahzad Muhammad , Du Weihua , Zhao Xueming
Published: May 2024

Extreme temperature during summer may lead to heat stress in cattle and compromise their productivity. It also poses detrimental impacts on the developmental capacity of bovine budding oocytes, which halt their fertility. To mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress, it is necessary to investigate the mechanisms through which it affects the developmental capacity of oocytes. The primary goal of this study was to investigate the impact of heat stress on the epigenetic modifications in bovine oocytes and embryos, as well as on oocyte developmental capacity, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, transzonal projections, and gene expression levels. Our results showed that heat stress significantly reduced the expression levels of the epigenetic modifications from histone H1, histone H2A, histone H2B, histone H4, DNA methylation, and DNA hydroxymethylation at all stages of the oocyte and embryo. Similarly, heat stress significantly reduced cleavage rate, blastocyst rate, oocyte mitochondrial-membrane potential level, adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) level, mitochondrial DNA copy number, and transzonal projection level. It was also found that heat stress affected mitochondrial distribution in oocytes and significantly increased reactive oxygen species, apoptosis levels and mitochondrial autophagy levels. Our findings suggest that heat stress significantly impacts the expression levels of genes related to oocyte developmental ability, the cytoskeleton, mitochondrial function, and epigenetic modification, lowering their competence during the summer season.
Influence of Cold Stress on Physiological and Phytochemical Characteristics and Secondary Metabolite Accumulation in Microclones of Juglans regia L.
Authors: Terletskaya Nina V. , Shadenova Elvira A. , Litvinenko Yuliya A. , Ashimuly Kazhybek , Erbay Malika , Mamirova Aigerim , Nazarova Irada , Meduntseva Nataliya D. , Kudrina Nataliya O. , Korbozova Nazym K. , Djangalina Erika D.
Published: May 2024

The current study investigated the impact of cold stress on the morphological, physiological, and phytochemical properties of Juglans regia L. (J. regia) using in vitro microclone cultures. The study revealed significant stress-induced changes in the production of secondary antioxidant metabolites. According to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses, the stress conditions profoundly altered the metabolism of J. regia microclones. Although the overall spectrum of metabolites was reduced, the production of key secondary antioxidant metabolites significantly increased. Notably, there was a sevenfold (7×) increase in juglone concentration. These findings are crucial for advancing walnut metabolomics and enhancing our understanding of plant responses to abiotic stress factors. Additionally, study results aid in identifying the role of individual metabolites in these processes, which is essential for developing strategies to improve plant resilience and tolerance to adverse conditions.
Loss of Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Afferents in APPswe/PS1ΔE9 Transgenic Mouse Model of Cerebral Amyloidosis Preferentially Occurs Near Amyloid Plaques
Authors: Lee Michael K. , Chen Gang
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by a loss of neurons in the cortex and subcortical regions. Previously, we showed that the progressive degeneration of subcortical monoaminergic (MAergic) neurons seen in human AD is recapitulated in the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 (APP/PS) transgenic mouse model. Because degeneration of cholinergic (Ach) neurons is also a prominent feature of AD, we examined the integrity of the Ach system in the APP/PS model. The overall density of Ach fibers is reduced in APP/PS1 mice at 12 and 18 months of age but not at 4 months of age. Analysis of basal forebrain Ach neurons shows no loss of Ach neurons in the APP/PS model. Thus, since MAergic systems show overt cell loss at 18 months of age, the Ach system is less vulnerable to neurodegeneration in the APP/PS1 model. We also examined whether the proximity to Aβ deposition affected the degeneration of Ach and 5-HT afferents. We found that the areas closer to the edges of compact Aβ deposits exhibit a more severe loss of afferents than the areas that are more distal to Aβ deposits. Collectively, the results indicate that the APP/PS model recapitulates the degeneration of multiple subcortical neurotransmitter systems, including the Ach system. In addition, the results indicate that Aβ deposits cause global as well as local toxicity to subcortical afferents.
Impressive Short-Term Improvement in Functional Outcome and Quality of Life after Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) in the Orthogeriatric Patient in a Prospective Monocentric Trial
Authors: Reinhard Jan , Michalk Katrin , Schiegl Julia Sabrina , Pagano Stefano , Grifka Joachim , Maderbacher Günther , Meyer Matthias , Kappenschneider Tobias
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) represents the most frequent chronic joint disease worldwide. Facing an aging population, resulting from the demographic change, the number of primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) will further increase. Although the geriatric patient strongly differs from the younger one, the current literature on elective orthopedic surgery in the geriatric patient is scarce. This work analyses, whether geriatric patients receiving primary THA significantly improve in terms of their (1) mobility and functional outcome and (2) health-related quality of life at four to six weeks as well as three months postoperatively. Methods: In a prospective study design, we analyzed 101 geriatric patients with osteoarthritis of the hip receiving primary THA. The study is part of the ongoing “Special Orthopaedic Geriatrics” (SOG) trial, which is funded by the German Federal Joint Committee (GBA). In addition to a preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and the EQ5D-5L were imposed preoperatively (t0), at four to six weeks (t1), and at three months (t2) postoperatively. Results: The 101 enrolled patients had a mean age of 78.1 ± 4.9 years. The total WOMAC score and almost all subcategories significantly improved at four to six weeks as well as three months postoperatively in comparison to the preoperative results (p < 0.001). The same was observed for the EQ-5D-5L, showing significant improvement in overall health at both time points (p < 0.001) and all subcategories (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study implies that a geriatric patient benefits as much from elective primary THA as a younger patient. However, the preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment with screening for risk factors is of utmost importance. Regarding the aging population, a lot of effort is needed to obtain more knowledge about geriatric patients receiving elective orthopedic surgery.
Low Bone Mineral Density on Computed Tomography: Association with Poor Survival after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Demirel Caglayan , Halavina Kseniya , Hamzaraj Kevin , Klement Johanna , El-Shaer Manar , Hemetsberger Rayyan , Winter Max Paul , Koschatko Sophia , Jantsch Charlotte , Andreas Martin , Loewe Christian , Kammerlander Andreas , Hengstenberg Christian , Bartko Philipp E.
Published: May 2024

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has evolved as first-line therapy for severe aortic valve stenosis (AS), with pre-procedural computed tomography (CT) providing critical anatomical information. While primarily used for anatomical planning, TAVR-CT also offers an opportunity to assess low bone mineral density (BMD), a known indicator of frailty. Despite this, the prognostic role of BMD in TAVR patients remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate BMD on routine TAVR-CT and its impact on long-term survival. Methods: In this retrospective study, 770 consecutive TAVR patients (mean age 80.7 ± 6.7 years, 54.0% males) between November 2015 and March 2022 were included. BMD was measured from a single axial image at the thoracic vertebral level on unenhanced CT scans. Cox regression models assessed the impact of BMD on mortality, and Restricted Cubic Spline models identified potential mortality thresholds. Results: The mean BMD value, as measured on non-contrast CT, was 147.5 ± 5.4 Hounsfield units, demonstrating a noteworthy association with mortality (adjusted hazard ratio per 100 HU decrease: 1.27 [95%CI: 1.01–1.59], p = 0.041). Restricted cubic spline analysis indicated that BMD below 200 HU was linked to a substantial increase in mortality risk. Upon crude Cox regression analysis, every 100 HU decrease was associated with a 32% increase in risk for death (HR 1.32 [95%CI: 1.068–1.65)], p = 0.010). Conclusions: In conclusion, low BMD on TAVR-CT is independently associated with reduced survival, suggesting its potential as a tool for comprehensive frailty assessment and improved risk prediction in TAVR patients.
Short-Term Benefits from Manual Therapy as an Adjunct Treatment for Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness Symptoms: A Preliminary Prospective Case Series
Authors: Harper Brent A. , Steinbeck Larry
Published: May 2024

Persistent dizziness and balance deficits are common, often with unknown etiology. Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (3PD) is a relatively new diagnosis with symptoms that may include dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-vertiginous dizziness and be persistent the majority of time over a minimum of 90 days. The purpose of this case series was to investigate short-term outcomes of reducing dizziness symptoms using a manual therapy intervention focused on restoring mobility in the fascia using a pragmatically applied biomechanical approach, the Fascial Manipulation® method (FM®), in patients with 3PD. The preliminary prospective case series consisted of twelve (n = 12) patients with persistent complaints of dizziness who received systematic application of manual therapy to improve fascial mobility after previously receiving vestibular rehabilitation. The manual therapy consisted of strategic assessment and palpation based on the model proposed in the FM® Stecco Method. This model utilizes tangential oscillations directed toward the deep fascia at strategic points. Six males (n = 6) and females (n = 6) were included with a mean age of 68.3 ± 19.3 years. The average number of interventions was 4.5 ± 0.5. Nonparametric paired sample t-tests were performed. Significant improvements were observed toward the resolution of symptoms and improved outcomes. The metrics included the Dizziness Handicap Inventory and static and dynamic balance measures. The Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores decreased (i.e., improved) by 43.6 points (z = −3.1 and p = 0.002). The timed up and go scores decreased (i.e., improved) by 3.2 s (z = −2.8 and p = 0.005). The tandem left increased (i.e., improved) by 8.7 s (z = 2.8 and p = 0.005) and the tandem right increased (i.e., improved) by 7.5 s (z = 2.8 and p = 0.005). Four to five manual therapy treatment sessions appear to be effective for short-term improvements in dizziness complaints and balance in those with 3PD. These results should be interpreted with caution as future research using rigorous methods and a control group must be conducted.
Developing the Physical Performance in Youth Soccer: Short-Term Effect of Dynamic–Ecological versus Traditional Training Approach for Sub-Elite U13 Players—An Ecological Exploratory Cluster Randomised Trial
Authors: Sannicandro Italo , Agostino Samuel , Abate Daga Massimiliano , Veglio Franco , Abate Daga Federico
Published: May 2024

Currently, research in youth soccer consists of methodological choices that can raise activity volumes and exercise intensity to promote proper training for youth soccer demands. Therefore, the present cluster randomised trial aims to evaluate the effects of the dynamic–ecological approach on the physical performance parameters compared with a traditional one in a group of sub-elite U13 players. Thirty-five male children (age 12.16 ± 0.55 years; weight 45.59 ± 7.15 kg; height 145.5 ± 4.2 cm; BMI 15.8 ± 2.1 kg·m−2) were recruited for this trial from two teams belonging to sub-elite soccer schools and randomly assigned to a dynamic–ecological approach (DEA) or a traditional training (TTG) group. The training program lasted six weeks and consisted of 18 training sessions of 90 min each (3 sessions per week). The sample was evaluated by the standing long jump (SLJ), hop test (HT), 10 m sprint (10 m), 10 × 5 m shuttle run test (SRT), and leg raise test (LR). The DEA group showed significantly higher results in the SLJ (p < 0.001), HT left leg (p < 0.001), 10 m sprint (p < 0.001), and SRT (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the dynamic–ecological approach provides higher performance adaptations. Therefore, this approach can be considered a suitable method to optimise pre-pubertal player training, mainly when no fitness or strength coach is available.
Parental Attitudes toward Gifted Students and Gifted Education: Attitude Profiles and Predictors
Authors: Jung Jae Yup , Lee Jihyun
Published: May 2024

In this study, an investigation was conducted into the types of attitudes that parents may have of gifted students and gifted education, and the predictors of these attitudes. Using data collected from 331 parents of students enrolled in a Christian faith-based school system in one of the eight states/territories of Australia, multiple analyses, including exploratory factor analysis and latent profile analysis, were performed. The results revealed three subgroups of parents, each representing distinct attitude profiles (i.e., “strong”, “moderate” and “weak” supporters of gifted students and gifted education). Furthermore, we found nine variables to be potential predictors of parent attitudes, including perceptions of the giftedness of one’s child, and the anticipated socio-emotional and academic impacts of giftedness and gifted education. Some of the important contributions of the study to the research literature included the distinction made by parents between attitudes toward gifted education adaptations and attitudes toward special gifted education settings, and the comparatively large number of parents who are moderately (rather than strongly or weakly) supportive of gifted students and gifted education.
Four Storm Surge Cases on the Coast of São Paulo, Brazil: Weather Analyses and High-Resolution Forecasts
Authors: Chou Sin Chan , Sondermann Marcely , Chagas Diego José , Gomes Jorge Luís , Souza Celia Regina de Gouveia , Ruiz Matheus Souza , Sampaio Alexandra F. P. , Ribeiro Renan Braga , Ferreira Regina Souza , Silva Priscila Linhares da , Harari Joseph
Published: May 2024

The coast of São Paulo, Brazil, is exposed to storm surges that can cause damage and floods. These storm surges are produced by slowly traveling cyclone–anticyclone systems. The motivation behind this work was the need to evaluate high-resolution forecasts of the mean sea-level pressure and 10 m winds, which are the major drivers of the wave model. This work is part of the activity in devising an early warning system for São Paulo coastal storm surges. For the evaluation, four case studies that had a major impact on the coast of São Paulo in 2020 were selected. Because storm surges that reach the coast may cause coastal flooding, precipitation forecasts were also evaluated. The mesoscale Eta model produces forecasts with a 5 km resolution for up to an 84 h lead time. The model was set up in a region that covers part of southeast and south Brazil. The ERA5 reanalysis was used to describe the large-scale synoptic conditions and to evaluate the weather forecasts. The cases showed a region in common between 35° S, 40° S and 35° W, 45° W where the low-pressure center deepened rapidly on the day before the highest waves reached the coast of São Paulo, with a mostly eastward, rather than northeastward, displacement of the associated surface cyclone and minimal or no tilt with height. The winds on the coast were the strongest on the day before the surge reached the coast of São Paulo, and then the winds weakened on the day of the maximum wave height. The pattern of the mean sea-level pressure and 10 m wind in the 36 h, 60 h, and 84 h forecasts agreed with the ERA5 reanalysis, but the pressure was slightly underestimated. In contrast, the winds along the coast were slightly overestimated. The 24 h accumulated precipitation pattern was also captured by the forecast, but was overestimated, especially at high precipitation rates. The 36 h forecasts showed the smallest error, but the growth in the error for longer lead times was small, which made the 84 h forecasts useful for driving wave models and other local applications, such as an early warning system.
Association between Hearing Aid Use and Cognitive Function in Persons with Hearing Impairment Stratified by Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Tomida Kouki , Lee Sangyoon , Makino Keitaro , Katayama Osamu , Harada Kenji , Morikawa Masanori , Yamaguchi Ryo , Nishijima Chiharu , Fujii Kazuya , Misu Yuka , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional analysis of the association between hearing aid use and cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults with hearing impairment, stratified by cardiovascular risk level. This cross-sectional study covers 1857 hearing-impaired individuals selected among 10,674 community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years of age) in Japan. We investigate the association between hearing aid use and cognitive decline stratified by cardiovascular risk level, by assessing self-reported hearing impairment and hearing aid use, absolute cardiovascular risk, cognitive function, and potential confounding factors. The association between hearing impairment severity and increased cardiovascular risk, and the benefit of hearing aid use in preventing cognitive decline, were examined in a binomial logistic regression analysis, with the presence of cognitive decline as the objective variable. In the low cardiovascular risk group, hearing aid users had a lower odds ratio for decline in executive function than non-users (odds ratio = 0.61, 95% confidence interval: 0.39–0.98). However, there was no significant association between hearing aid use and cognitive decline in the high cardiovascular risk group (p > 0.05). Among older adults with hearing impairment, hearing aid use was associated with the maintenance of executive function in individuals of low cardiovascular risk.
Follistatin as a Potential Biomarker for Identifying Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Erbakan Ayşe N. , Mutlu H. Hicran , Uzunlulu Mehmet , Caştur Lütfullah , Akbaş Muhammet Mikdat , Kaya Fatoş N. , Erbakan Mehmet , İşman Ferruh K. , Oğuz Aytekin
Published: May 2024

Metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) refers to obese individuals with a favorable metabolic profile, without severe metabolic abnormalities. This study aimed to investigate the potential of follistatin, a regulator of metabolic balance, as a biomarker to distinguish between metabolically healthy and unhealthy obesity. This cross-sectional study included 30 metabolically healthy and 32 metabolically unhealthy individuals with obesity. Blood samples were collected to measure the follistatin levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). While follistatin did not significantly differentiate between metabolically healthy (median 41.84 [IQR, 37.68 to 80.09]) and unhealthy (median 42.44 [IQR, 39.54 to 82.55]) individuals with obesity (p = 0.642), other biochemical markers, such as HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, C-peptide, and AST, showed significant differences between the two groups. Insulin was the most significant predictor of follistatin levels, with a coefficient of 0.903, followed by C-peptide, which exerted a negative influence at −0.624. Quantile regression analysis revealed nuanced associations between the follistatin levels and metabolic parameters in different quantiles. Although follistatin may not serve as a biomarker for identifying MHO and metabolically unhealthy obesity, understanding the underlying mechanisms that contribute to metabolic dysfunction could provide personalized strategies for managing obesity and preventing associated complications.
IL-8 (CXCL8) Correlations with Psychoneuroimmunological Processes and Neuropsychiatric Conditions
Authors: Shkundin Anton , Halaris Angelos
Published: May 2024

Interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8), an essential CXC chemokine, significantly influences psychoneuroimmunological processes and affects neurological and psychiatric health. It exerts a profound effect on immune cell activation and brain function, suggesting potential roles in both neuroprotection and neuroinflammation. IL-8 production is stimulated by several factors, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) known to promote inflammation and disease progression. Additionally, CXCL8 gene polymorphisms can alter IL-8 production, leading to potential differences in disease susceptibility, progression, and severity across populations. IL-8 levels vary among neuropsychiatric conditions, demonstrating sensitivity to psychosocial stressors and disease severity. IL-8 can be detected in blood circulation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and urine, making it a promising candidate for a broad-spectrum biomarker. This review highlights the need for further research on the diverse effects of IL-8 and the associated implications for personalized medicine. A thorough understanding of its complex role could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric conditions.
Effect of Surgeon Volume on Mechanical Complications after Resection Arthroplasty with Articulating Spacer
Authors: Ko Chih-Yuan , Tsai Chun-Hao , Fong Yi-Chin , Chen Hui-Yi , Chen Hsien-Te , Lin Tsung-Li
Published: May 2024

Two-stage revision with an antibiotic-loaded cement articulating spacer is a standard treatment for chronic prosthetic knee infection (PKI); however, mechanical complications can occur during the spacer period. There is limited evidence on the association between surgeon volume and mechanical complications after resection arthroplasty (RA) using an articulating spacer. This study aimed to compare the rates of mechanical complications and reoperation after RA with articulating spacers by surgeons with high volumes (HV) and low volumes (LV) of RA performed and analyzed the risk factors for mechanical failure. The retrospective study investigated 203 patients treated with PKIs who underwent RA with articulating spacers and were divided according to the number of RAs performed by the surgeons: HV (≥14 RAs/year) or LV (<14 RAs/year). Rates of mechanical complications and reoperations were compared. Risk factors for mechanical complications were analyzed. Of the 203 patients, 105 and 98 were treated by two HV and six LV surgeons, respectively. The mechanical complication rate was lower in HV surgeons (3.8%) than in LV surgeons (36.7%) (p < 0.001). The reoperation rate for mechanical complications was lower in HV surgeons (0.9%) than in LV surgeons (24.5%) (p < 0.001). Additionally, 47.2% of patients required hinge knees after mechanical spacer failure. Medial proximal tibial angle < 87°, recurvatum angle > 5°, and the use of a tibial spacer without a cement stem extension were risk factors for mechanical complications. Based on these findings, we made the following three conclusions: (1) HV surgeons had a lower rate of mechanical complications and reoperation than LV surgeons; (2) mechanical complications increased the level of constraint in final revision knee arthroplasty; and (3) all surgeons should avoid tibial spacer varus malalignment and recurvatum deformity and always use a cement stem extension with a tibial spacer.
Baroreflex Sensitivity as a Surrogate Biomarker for Concurrently Assessing the Severity of Arterial Stiffness and Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hsieh Dong-Yi , Lai Yun-Ru , Huang Chih-Cheng , Chen Yung-Nien , Wu Szu-Ying , Chiu Wen-Chan , Cheng Ben-Chung , Lin Ting-Yin , Chiang Hui-Ching , Lu Cheng-Hsien
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate whether baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) could serve as a reliable metric for assessing cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and concurrently act as a surrogate biomarker for evaluating the severity of arterial stiffness and CAN in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Participants underwent brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) as well as autonomic function evaluations encompassing the Sudoscan-based modified composite autonomic scoring scale (CASS), baroreflex sensitivity, and heart rate variability in time domains and frequency domains. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of independent variables on baPWV and modified CASS. Participants with higher baPWV values were older, with longer diabetes duration, lower body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial blood pressure. They also exhibited a higher prevalence of retinopathy as the underlying disease and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age and BRS were significantly associated with baPWV while diabetes duration, UACR, and BRS were significantly associated with modified CASS. Our study confirms the significant association of BRS with baPWV and modified CASS in T2DM, highlighting its pivotal role in linking microvascular and macrovascular complications. This supports BRS as a surrogate marker for assessing both the severity of arterial stiffness and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy in T2DM, enabling the early identification of complications.
Growing in Scarcity: Pre-Hispanic Rain-Fed Agriculture in the Semi-Arid and Frost-Prone Andean Altiplano (Bolivia)
Authors: Cruz Pablo , Joffre Richard , Saintenoy Thibault , Vacher Jean-Joinville
Published: May 2024

Ancient Andean agricultural landscapes have been the subject of a large number of archaeological and agro-ecological studies, which generally refer to regions with favourable environmental conditions or, in the case of arid and semi-arid environments, those with irrigation facilities. The aim of this article is to present and analyse the pre-Hispanic rain-fed farming systems widely represented in two adjacent regions of Bolivia’s arid and cold southern Altiplano. The search for archaeological agricultural areas combined aerial analysis and field surveys. Agro-ecological characterisation was based on historical and ethnographic studies of the region’s present-day populations. Despite their geographical proximity, similar environmental conditions, and same agropastoral way of life, the typology of cultivated areas developed in the southern altiplano differs significantly. Within this same framework of adaptation and resilience, the sectorisation of agricultural systems observed in these two regions reveals a regional productive specialisation that favoured internal exchanges and exchanges with other regions. These differences are related to two models of non-centralised, low-inequality societies—one strongly based on cohesion and the other characterised by greater fragmentation and social conflict—underlining the limits of strict environmental determinism in shaping agricultural landscapes. These results provide new food for thought in the debate on the use and value of rain-fed agricultural practices and more broadly on the diversity of adaptations by human societies in extreme and unstable environmental contexts.
Analytical Model of Tapered Thread Made by Turning from Different Machinability Workpieces
Authors: Onysko Oleh , Kopei Volodymyr , Barz Cristian , Kusyi Yaroslav , Baskutis Saulius , Bembenek Michal , Dašić Predrag , Panchuk Vitalii
Published: May 2024

High-precision tapered threads are widely used in hard-loaded mechanical joints, especially in the aggressive environment of the drilling of oil and gas wells. Therefore, they must be made of workable materials often difficult to machine. This requires the use of high-performance cutting tools, which means the application of non-zero geometric parameters: rake and edge inclination angles. This study is based on analytical geometry methodology and describes the theoretical function of the thread profile as convoluted surfaces dependent on the tool’s geometric angles. The experiments were conducted using a visual algorithm grounded on the obtained function and prove the practical use of the scientific result. They predict the required accuracy of thread made using a lathe tool with a rake angle of up to 12°.
Resonant Fatigue Tests on Polished Drill Pipe Specimens
Authors: Santus Ciro , Romanelli Lorenzo , Bertini Leonardo , Burchianti Alessandro , Inoue Tomoya
Published: May 2024

In this study, the fatigue strength of polished drill pipe specimens was investigated and compared with previous test results of corroded and not-corroded pipes. The resonant fatigue test rig, which was designed and implemented by the University of Pisa, is initially presented by providing a detailed description of the set-up of the machine, the calibration of the strain gauges, the control system, and the correct identification of the vibrational node locations. A polishing rig was also designed and put into operation to remove the corrosion pits from the outer surface of almost the entire length of the drill pipe specimens. After the fatigue tests with the resonant rig, and the observation of the fatigue fracture of the specimens, a few samples were extracted from different zones (corroded and not corroded) of the failed drill pipe specimens. This allowed for investigations to be carried out using a scanning electronic microscope. The obtained results were analyzed using the Murakami model, and a discussion is presented about the effect of the corrosion pits on the fatigue strength.
Novel Robust Estimation-Based Control of One-Sided Lipschitz Nonlinear Systems Subject to Output and Input Delays
Authors: Ahmad Sohaira , Rehan Muhammad , Ibrar Anas , Ali Muhammad Umair , Zafar Amad , Kim Seong Han
Published: May 2024

This paper highlights the design of a controller established on estimated states for one-sided Lipschitz (OSL) nonlinear systems subject to output and input delays. The controller has been devised by involving Luenberger-like estimated states. The stability of the time-delayed nonlinear system is reckoned by assuming a Lyapunov functional for delayed dynamics and for which a delay-range dependent criterion is posed with a delay ranging between known upper and lower bounds. The time derivative of the functional is further exploited with linear matrix inequality (LMI) procedures, and employing Wirtinger’s inequality for the integral terms instead of the traditional and more conservative Jensen’s condition. Moreover, a sufficient and necessary solution is derived for the proposed design by involving the tedious decoupling technique to attain controller and observer gain simultaneously. The proposed methodology validates the observer error stability between observers and states asymptotically. The solution of matrix inequalities was obtained by employing cone-complementary linearization techniques to solve the tiresome constraints through simulation tools by convex optimization. Additionally, a novel scheme of an observer-based controller for the linear counterpart is also derived for one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems with multiple delays. Finally, the effectualness of the presented observer-based controller under input and output delays for one-sided Lipschitz nonlinear systems is validated by considering a numerical simulation of mobile systems in Cartesian coordinates.
Most Probable Dynamics of the Single-Species with Allee Effect under Jump-Diffusion Noise
Authors: Abebe Almaz T. , Yuan Shenglan , Tesfay Daniel , Brannan James
Published: May 2024

We explore the most probable phase portrait (MPPP) of a stochastic single-species model incorporating the Allee effect by utilizing the nonlocal Fokker–Planck equation (FPE). This stochastic model incorporates both non-Gaussian and Gaussian noise sources. It has three fixed points in the deterministic case. One is the unstable state, which lies between the two stable equilibria. Our primary focus is on elucidating the transition pathways from extinction to the upper stable state in this single-species model, particularly under the influence of jump-diffusion noise. This helps us to study the biological behavior of species. The identification of the most probable path relies on solving the nonlocal FPE tailored to the population dynamics of the single-species model. This enables us to pinpoint the corresponding maximum possible stable equilibrium state. Additionally, we derive the Onsager–Machlup function for the stochastic model and employ it to determine the corresponding most probable paths. Numerical simulations manifest three key insights: (i) when non-Gaussian noise is present in the system, the peak of the stationary density function aligns with the most probable stable equilibrium state; (ii) if the initial value rises from extinction to the upper stable state, then the most probable trajectory converges towards the maximally probable equilibrium state, situated approximately between 9 and 10; and (iii) the most probable paths exhibit a rapid ascent towards the stable state, then maintain a sustained near-constant level, gradually approaching the upper stable equilibrium as time goes on. These numerical findings pave the way for further experimental investigations aiming to deepen our comprehension of dynamical systems within the context of biological modeling.
Adaptive RBF Neural Network Tracking Control of Stochastic Nonlinear Systems with Actuators and State Constraints
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Li Yinguang
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the adaptive neural network (NN) tracking control problem for stochastic nonlinear systems with multiple actuator constraints and full-state constraints. The issue of system full-state constraints is tackled by a generalized barrier Lyapunov function (GBLF), and the output constraints of the system are considered to be in the form of time-varying functions, which are more in line with the needs of real physical systems. The NN approximation technique is utilized to overcome the influence of the uncertainty term on controller design due to randomness. Based on the backstepping technique, a neural adaptive fixed-time tracking control strategy is designed. Under the designed control strategy, the tracking accuracy of the controlled system can reach the expectation in a fixed time. The multi-actuator constraints are converted into a generalized mathematical model to simplify the controller design process. Using the characteristics of the hyperbolic tangent function, a new function called practical virtual control signal is designed using the virtual control signal as the input. Due to the saturation constraint property of the hyperbolic tangent function, it is theoretically ensured that no state of the system exceeds the constraints through to the new form of the virtual controller. Using the adaptive controller constructed in this paper, the controlled system is semi-global fixed-time stabilized in probability (SGFSP). Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is further verified by simulation examples.
High-Precision Quality Prediction Based on Two-Dimensional Extended Windows
Authors: Zhao Luping , Yang Jiayang
Published: May 2024

A PLS-based quality prediction method is proposed for batch processes using two-dimensional extended windows. To realize the adoption of information in the directions of sampling time and batch, a newly defined region of support (ROS), called the k-i-back-extended region of support (KIBROS), is proposed; it establishes an extended window by adding two regions of data to the traditional ROS to include all possible important data for quality prediction. Based on the new ROS, extended windows are established, and different models are proposed using the extended windows for batch process quality prediction. Furthermore, using the typical injection molding batch process as an example, the proposed quality prediction method is experimentally verified, proving that the proposed methods have higher prediction accuracy than the traditional method and that the prediction stability is also improved.
Comparison of Feature Selection Methods—Modelling COPD Outcomes
Authors: Cabral Jorge , Macedo Pedro , Marques Alda , Afreixo Vera
Published: May 2024

Selecting features associated with patient-centered outcomes is of major relevance yet the importance given depends on the method. We aimed to compare stepwise selection, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, random forest, Boruta, extreme gradient boosting and generalized maximum entropy estimation and suggest an aggregated evaluation. We also aimed to describe outcomes in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Data from 42 patients were collected at baseline and at 5 months. Acute exacerbations were the aggregated most important feature in predicting the difference in the handgrip muscle strength (dHMS) and the COVID-19 lockdown group had an increased dHMS of 3.08 kg (CI95 ≈ [0.04, 6.11]). Pack-years achieved the highest importance in predicting the difference in the one-minute sit-to-stand test and no clinical change during lockdown was detected. Charlson comorbidity index was the most important feature in predicting the difference in the COPD assessment test (dCAT) and participants with severe values are expected to have a decreased dCAT of 6.51 points (CI95 ≈ [2.52, 10.50]). Feature selection methods yield inconsistent results, particularly extreme gradient boosting and random forest with the remaining. Models with features ordered by median importance had a meaningful clinical interpretation. Lockdown seem to have had a negative impact in the upper-limb muscle strength.