bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cochlear Implant Evolving Indications: Our Outcomes in Adult Patients
Authors: Achena Andrea , Achena Francesco , Dragonetti Alberto Giulio , Sechi Serena , Pili Andrea Walter , Locci Maria Cristina , Turnu Giuseppe , Maniaci Antonino , Ferlito Salvatore
Published: August 2022

Background: The eligibility criteria for cochlear implantation are constantly evolving, following the continuous progress in technology, knowledge about cochlear implant (CI) fitting, and the possibility to preserve residual hearing. Appropriate attention should be given to asymmetric hearing loss (AHL) and single-side deafness (SSD) subjects. This study aimed to analyze cochlear implant indications and evaluate the longitudinal performance outcomes for patients with different kinds and degrees of sensorineural hearing loss. Methods: A total of 69 adult hearing loss CI recipients were included and divided into four subgroups according to our CI indication criteria. We performed objective and subjective measures, including speech perception analysis in silence and with background noise, comparing the outcomes obtained in the four groups. Results: After cochlear implant surgery, concerning the preimplantation daily listening condition, a significantly improved speech perception score in silence and noise was found in all four groups (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusion: CI could represent an efficient solution for patients with AHL and SSD classes.
A Stable Generalized Finite Element Method Coupled with Deep Neural Network for Interface Problems with Discontinuities
Authors: Jiang Ying , Nian Minghui , Zhang Qinghui
Published: August 2022

The stable generalized finite element method (SGFEM) is an improved version of generalized or extended FEM (GFEM/XFEM), which (i) uses simple and unfitted meshes, (ii) reaches optimal convergence orders, and (iii) is stable and robust in the sense that conditioning is of the same order as that of FEM and does not get bad as interfaces approach boundaries of elements. This paper designs the SGFEM for the discontinuous interface problem (DIP) by coupling a deep neural network (DNN). The main idea is to construct a function using the DNN, which captures the discontinuous interface condition, and transform the DIP to an (approximately) equivalent continuous interface problem (CIP) based on the DNN function such that the SGFEM for CIPs can be applied. The SGFEM for the DIP is a conforming method that maintains the features (i)–(iii) of SGFEM and is free from penalty terms. The approximation error of the proposed SGFEM is analyzed mathematically, which is split into an error of SGFEM of the CIP and a learning error of the DNN. The learning dimension of DNN is one dimension less than that of the domain and can be implemented efficiently. It is known that the DNN enjoys advantages in nonlinear approximations and high-dimensional problems. Therefore, the proposed SGFEM coupled with the DNN has great potential in the high-dimensional interface problem with interfaces of complex geometries. Numerical experiments verify the efficiency and optimal convergence of the proposed method.
A Brief Overview and Survey of the Scientific Work by Feng Qi
Authors: Agarwal Ravi Prakash , Karapinar Erdal , Kostić Marko , Cao Jian , Du Wei-Shih
Published: August 2022

In the paper, the authors present a brief overview and survey of the scientific work by Chinese mathematician Feng Qi and his coauthors.
Inference of Reliability Analysis for Type II Half Logistic Weibull Distribution with Application of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Mohamed Rania A. H. , Tolba Ahlam H. , Almetwally Ehab M. , Ramadan Dina A.
Published: August 2022

The estimation of the unknown parameters of Type II Half Logistic Weibull (TIIHLW) distribution was analyzed in this paper. The maximum likelihood and Bayes methods are used as estimation methods. These estimators are used to estimate the fuzzy reliability function and to choose the best estimator of the fuzzy reliability function by comparing the mean square error (MSE). The simulation’s results showed that fuzziness is better than reality for all sample sizes, and fuzzy reliability at Bayes predicted estimates is better than the maximum likelihood technique. It produces the lowest average MSE until a sample size of n = 50 is obtained. A simulated data set is applied to diagnose the performance of the two techniques applied here. A real data set is used as a practice for the model discussed and developed the maximum likelihood estimate alternative model of TIIHLW as Topp Leone inverted Kumaraswamy, modified Kies inverted Topp–Leone, Kumaraswamy Weibull–Weibull, Marshall–Olkin alpha power inverse Weibull, and odd Weibull inverted Topp–Leone. We conclude that the TIIHLW is the best distribution fit for this data.
Chemical Composition, Physical Properties, and Aroma Profile of Ethanol Macerates of Mistletoe (Viscum album)
Authors: Hanousek Čiča Karla , Lukin Priska , Derewiaka Dorota , Mrvčić Jasna , Stanzer Damir
Published: August 2022

Maceration parameters such as alcohol and mistletoe content were studied to obtain high-quality macerates to produce biska, a traditional Istrian herbal spirit. An ethanol–water solution containing 25, 40, 55, and 70 v/v% ethanol and 20, 40, and 80 g/L mistletoe was macerated and pH, total acids, extract content, and color parameters were measured. Volatile compounds were determined by GC/MS. More than 150 different volatile compounds were detected. The composition of the ethanol–water solution and mistletoe content affects the values of total extract, total acids, and color. Samples with lower alcohol content have a higher number of different acids, aldehydes, alcohols, esters, and ketones, while macerates with higher alcohol content are rich in hydrocarbons and terpenes. Ethyl decanoate; ethyl hexynoate; ethyl octanoate; benzaldehyde; hexanal; octanal; and the terpene compounds limonene, cymene, menthone, humulene, eucalyptol, linalol, and borneol contribute significantly to the aroma of the macerates due to a low odor threshold. Ylangene and α- and β-bourbonene are tentatively determined new terpene molecules that are not found in the mistletoe literature, as well as thujone, which was also detected. For the preparation of aromatic macerates, 40–50 v/v% ethanol and about 40 g/L mistletoe should be used.
A Fully Unsupervised Deep Learning Framework for Non-Rigid Fundus Image Registration
Authors: Benvenuto Giovana A. , Colnago Marilaine , Dias Maurício A. , Negri Rogério G. , Silva Erivaldo A. , Casaca Wallace
Published: August 2022

In ophthalmology, the registration problem consists of finding a geometric transformation that aligns a pair of images, supporting eye-care specialists who need to record and compare images of the same patient. Considering the registration methods for handling eye fundus images, the literature offers only a limited number of proposals based on deep learning (DL), whose implementations use the supervised learning paradigm to train a model. Additionally, ensuring high-quality registrations while still being flexible enough to tackle a broad range of fundus images is another drawback faced by most existing methods in the literature. Therefore, in this paper, we address the above-mentioned issues by introducing a new DL-based framework for eye fundus registration. Our methodology combines a U-shaped fully convolutional neural network with a spatial transformation learning scheme, where a reference-free similarity metric allows the registration without assuming any pre-annotated or artificially created data. Once trained, the model is able to accurately align pairs of images captured under several conditions, which include the presence of anatomical differences and low-quality photographs. Compared to other registration methods, our approach achieves better registration outcomes by just passing as input the desired pair of fundus images.
An Automated Hardware-in-Loop Testbed for Evaluating Hemorrhagic Shock Resuscitation Controllers
Authors: Snider Eric. J. , Berard David , Vega Saul J. , Hernandez Torres Sofia I. , Avital Guy , Boice Emily N.
Published: August 2022

Hemorrhage remains a leading cause of death, with early goal-directed fluid resuscitation being a pillar of mortality prevention. While closed-loop resuscitation can potentially benefit this effort, development of these systems is resource-intensive, making it a challenge to compare infusion controllers and respective hardware within a range of physiologically relevant hemorrhage scenarios. Here, we present a hardware-in-loop automated testbed for resuscitation controllers (HATRC) that provides a simple yet robust methodology to evaluate controllers. HATRC is a flow-loop benchtop system comprised of multiple PhysioVessels which mimic pressure-volume responsiveness for different resuscitation infusates. Subject variability and infusate switching were integrated for more complex testing. Further, HATRC can modulate fluidic resistance to mimic arterial resistance changes after vasopressor administration. Finally, all outflow rates are computer-controlled, with rules to dictate hemorrhage, clotting, and urine rates. Using HATRC, we evaluated a decision-table controller at two sampling rates with different hemorrhage scenarios. HATRC allows quantification of twelve performance metrics for each controller configuration and scenario, producing heterogeneous results and highlighting the need for controller evaluation with multiple hemorrhage scenarios. In conclusion, HATRC can be used to evaluate closed-loop controllers through user-defined hemorrhage scenarios while rating their performance. Extensive controller troubleshooting using HATRC can accelerate product development and subsequent translation.
Regulation of Protein Transport Pathways by the Cytosolic Hsp90s
Authors: Mankovich Anna G. , Freeman Brian C.
Published: August 2022

The highly conserved molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is well-known for maintaining metastable proteins and mediating various aspects of intracellular protein dynamics. Intriguingly, high-throughput interactome studies suggest that Hsp90 is associated with a variety of other pathways. Here, we will highlight the potential impact of Hsp90 in protein transport. Currently, a limited number of studies have defined a few mechanistic contributions of Hsp90 to protein transport, yet the relevance of hundreds of additional connections between Hsp90 and factors known to aide this process remains unresolved. These interactors broadly support transport pathways including endocytic and exocytic vesicular transport, the transfer of polypeptides across membranes, or unconventional protein secretion. In resolving how Hsp90 contributes to the protein transport process, new therapeutic targets will likely be obtained for the treatment of numerous human health issues, including bacterial infection, cancer metastasis, and neurodegeneration.
Bioinformatics Analysis of LGR4 in Colon Adenocarcinoma as Potential Diagnostic Biomarker, Therapeutic Target and Promoting Immune Cell Infiltration
Authors: Wu Lijuan , Tian Xiaoxiao , Du Hao , Liu Xiaomin , Wu Haigang
Published: August 2022

Colon adenocarcinoma is one of the tumors with the highest mortality rate, and tumorigenesis or development of colon adenocarcinoma is the major reason leading to patient death. However, the molecular mechanism and biomarker to predict tumor progression are currently unclear. With the goal of understanding the molecular mechanism and tumor progression, we utilized the TCGA database to identify differentially expressed genes. After identifying the differentially expressed genes among colon adenocarcinoma tissues with different expression levels of LGR4 and normal tissue, protein–protein interaction, gene ontology, pathway enrichment, gene set enrichment analysis, and immune cell infiltration analysis were conducted. Here, the top 10 hub genes, i.e., ALB, F2, APOA2, CYP1A1, SPRR2B, APOA1, APOB, CYP3A4, SST, and GCG, were identified, and relative correlation analysis was conducted. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that higher expression of LGR4 correlates with overall survival of colon adenocarcinoma patients, although expression levels of LGR4 in normal tissues are higher than in tumor tissues. Further functional analysis demonstrated that higher expression of LGR4 in colon adenocarcinoma may be linked to up-regulate metabolism-related pathways, for example, the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. These results were confirmed by gene set enrichment analysis. Immune cell infiltration analysis clearly showed that the infiltration percentage of T cells was significantly higher than other immune cells, and TIMER analysis revealed a positive correlation between T-cell infiltration and LGR4 expression. Finally, COAD cancer cells, Caco-2, were employed to be incubated with squalene and 25-hydroxycholesterol-3-sulfate, and relative experimental results confirmed that the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway involved in modulating the proliferation of COAD tumorigenesis. Our investigation revealed that LGR4 can be an emerging diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for colon adenocarcinoma by affecting metabolism-related pathways.
Single-Cell FISH Analysis Reveals Distinct Shifts in PKM Isoform Populations during Drug Resistance Acquisition
Authors: Kim Seong Ho , Wi Ji Hun , Gwak HyeRan , Yang Eun Gyeong , Kim So Yeon
Published: August 2022

The Warburg effect, i.e., the utilization of glycolysis under aerobic conditions, is recognized as a survival advantage of cancer cells. However, how the glycolytic activity is affected during drug resistance acquisition has not been explored at single-cell resolution. Because the relative ratio of the splicing isoform of pyruvate kinase M (PKM), PKM2/PKM1, can be used to estimate glycolytic activity, we utilized a single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (SM-FISH) method to simultaneously quantify the mRNA levels of PKM1 and PKM2. Treatment of HCT116 cells with gefitinib (GE) resulted in two distinct populations of cells. However, as cells developed GE resistance, the GE-sensitive population with reduced PKM2 expression disappeared, and GE-resistant cells (Res) demonstrated enhanced PKM1 expression and a tightly regulated PKM2/PKM1 ratio. Our data suggest that maintaining an appropriate PKM2 level is important for cell survival upon GE treatment, whereas increased PKM1 expression becomes crucial in GE Res. This approach demonstrates the importance of single-cell-based analysis for our understanding of cancer cell metabolic responses to drugs, which could aid in the design of treatment strategies for drug-resistant cancers.
Minor Phytocannabinoids: A Misleading Name but a Promising Opportunity for Biomedical Research
Authors: Caprioglio Diego , Amin Hawraz Ibrahim M. , Taglialatela-Scafati Orazio , Muñoz Eduardo , Appendino Giovanni
Published: August 2022

Despite the very large number of phytocannabinoids isolated from Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), bioactivity studies have long remained focused on the so called “Big Four” [Δ9-THC (1), CBD (2), CBG (3) and CBC (4)] because of their earlier characterization and relatively easy availability via isolation and/or synthesis. Bioactivity information on the chemical space associated with the remaining part of the cannabinome, a set of ca 150 compounds traditionally referred to as “minor phytocannabinoids”, is scarce and patchy, yet promising in terms of pharmacological potential. According to their advancement stage, we sorted the bioactivity data available on these compounds, better referred to as the “dark cannabinome”, into categories: discovery (in vitro phenotypical and biochemical assays), preclinical (animal models), and clinical. Strategies to overcome the availability issues associated with minor phytocannabinoids are discussed, as well as the still unmet challenges facing their development as mainstream drugs.
MTHFR SNPs (Methyl Tetrahydrofolate Reductase, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) C677T and A1298C Prevalence and Serum Homocysteine Levels in >2100 Hypofertile Caucasian Male Patients
Authors: Clément Arthur , Amar Edouard , Brami Charles , Clément Patrice , Alvarez Silvia , Jacquesson-Fournols Laetitia , Davy Céline , Lalau-Keraly Marc , Menezo Yves
Published: August 2022

Methylation is a crucially important ubiquitous biochemical process, which covalently adds methyl groups to a variety of molecular targets. It is the key regulatory process that determines the acquisition of imprinting and epigenetic marks during gametogenesis. Methylation processes are dependent upon two metabolic cycles, the folates and the one-carbon cycles. The activity of these two cycles is compromised by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding the Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme. These SNPs affect spermatogenesis and oocyte maturation, creating cytologic/chromosomal anomalies. The two main MTHFR SNP variants C677T (c.6777C>T) and A1298C (c.1298A>C) together with serum homocysteine levels were tested in men with >3 years’ duration of infertility who had failed several ART attempts with the same partner. These patients are often classified as having “idiopathic infertility”. We observed that the genetic status with highest prevalence in this group is the heterozygous C677T, followed by the combined heterozygous C677T/A1298C, and then A1298C; these three variants represent 65% of our population. Only 13.1% of the patients tested are wild type (WT), C677C/A1298A). The homozygous 677TT and the combined heterozygote 677CT/1298AC groups have the highest percentage of patients with an elevated circulating homocysteine level of >15 µMolar (57.8% and 18.8%, respectively, which is highly significant for both). Elevated homocysteine is known to be detrimental to spermatogenesis, and the population with this parameter is not marginal. In conclusion, determination of these two SNPs and serum homocysteine should not be overlooked for patients with severe infertility of long duration, including those with repeated miscarriages. Patients must also be informed about pleiotropic medical implications relevant to their own health, as well as to the health of future children.
Chronic Kidney Disease in Boys with Posterior Urethral Valves–Pathogenesis, Prognosis and Management
Authors: Klaus Richard , Lange-Sperandio Bärbel
Published: August 2022

Posterior urethral valves (PUV) are the most common form of lower urinary tract obstructions (LUTO). The valves can be surgically corrected postnatally; however, the impairment of kidney and bladder development is irreversible and has lifelong implications. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and bladder dysfunction are frequent problems. Approximately 20% of PUV patients will reach end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The subvesical obstruction in PUV leads to muscular hypertrophy and fibrotic remodelling in the bladder, which both impair its function. Kidney development is disturbed and results in dysplasia, hypoplasia, inflammation and renal fibrosis, which are hallmarks of CKD. The prognoses of PUV patients are based on prenatal and postnatal parameters. Prenatal parameters include signs of renal hypodysplasia in the analysis of fetal urine. Postnatally, the most robust predictor of PUV is the nadir serum creatinine after valve ablation. A value that is below 0.4 mg/dL implies a very low risk for ESKD, whereas a value above 0.85 mg/dL indicates a high risk for ESKD. In addition, bladder dysfunction and renal dysplasia point towards an unbeneficial kidney outcome. Experimental urinary markers such as MCP-1 and TGF-β, as well as microalbuminuria, indicate progression to CKD. Until now, prenatal intervention may improve survival but yields no renal benefit. The management of PUV patients includes control of bladder dysfunction and CKD treatment to slow down progression by controlling hypertension, proteinuria and infections. In kidney transplantation, aggressive bladder management is essential to ensure optimal graft survival.
In Vitro Molecular Study of Titanium-Niobium Alloy Biocompatibility
Authors: Chézeau Laëtitia , Tchinda Alex , Pierson Gaël , Bravetti Pierre , Ferrari Luc , Joubert Olivier , Zaiou Mohamed , Rihn Bertrand H.
Published: August 2022

Titanium dental implants have common clinical applications due to their biocompatibility, biophysical and biochemical characteristics. Although current titanium is thought to be safe and beneficial for patients, there are several indications that it may release toxic metal ions or metal nanoparticles from its alloys into the surrounding environment, which could lead to clinically relevant complications including toxic reactions as well as immune dysfunctions. Hence, an adequate selection and testing of medical biomaterial with outstanding properties are warranted. This study was designed to explore the biocompatibility of smooth titanium-niobium alloy (S_TiNb) versus smooth titanium commercially pure (S_TiCp)—a reference in implantology. All experiments were performed in vitro using human osteoblast-like SaOs-2 and monocyte THP-1 cell lines as models. Cell adhesion and growth morphology were determined by scanning electron microscopy, while cell viability was evaluated using WST-1 assay. Because niobate anions or niobium nanoparticles can be released from implants during biomaterial-cell interaction, potential immunotoxicity of potassium niobate (KNbO3) salt was evaluated by examining both metabolic activity and transcriptomic profiling of treated THP-1 monocytes. The main findings of this study are that S_TiCp and S_TiNb discs do not show an impact on the proliferation and viability of SaOs-2 cells compared to polystyrene surfaces, whereas a significant decrease in THP-1 cells’ viability and metabolic activity was observed in the presence of S_TiNb discs compared to the control group. However, no significant changes were found neither at the metabolic activity nor at the transcriptomic level of THP-1 monocytes exposed to KNbO3 salt, suggesting that niobium has no effect on the immune system. Overall, these data imply a possible toxicity of S_TiNb discs toward THP-1 cells, which may not be directly related to niobium but perhaps to the manufacturing process of titanium-niobium alloy. Thus, this limitation must be overcome to make titanium alloy an excellent material for medical applications.
Discovery of Pharmaceutical Composition for Prevention and Treatment in Patient-Derived Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Model
Authors: Yun Hyeok-Jun , Lim Jin-Hong , Kim Sang-Yong , Kim Seok-Mo , Park Ki-Cheong
Published: August 2022

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a well-known neuroendocrine carcinoma, derived from C cells of the thyroid gland. Additionally, MTC is an uncommon aggressive carcinoma that metastasizes to lymph nodes, bones, lungs and liver. For MTC, the 10-year general survival ratio of patients with localized disease is about 95%, whereas that of patients with local phase disorder is around 75%. Only 20% of patients with distant metastasis to lung at diagnosis survive 10 years, which is notably lower than survival for well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC). The management of MTC with distant metastasis to lung could be re-surgery or chemotherapy. In this research, we planned to assess the in vitro and in vivo combinational anticancer effect of a novel combination of low-dose cisplatin and sorafenib in patient-derived MTC. The patient-derived MTC cell lines YUMC-M1, M2, and M3 were isolated and treated with a combination of cisplatin and sorafenib or either agent alone. Cisplatin and sorafenib acted in combination to forward tumor restraint compared with each agent administered alone at a low dose. Therefore, a combination of cisplatin and sorafenib could be a new therapeutic approach for MTC.
Generation and Characterization of Novel iPSC Lines from a Portuguese Family Bearing Heterozygous and Homozygous GRN Mutations
Authors: Oliveira Ana Rafaela , Martins Solange , Cammarata Giuseppe , Martins Mariana , Cardoso Ana Maria , Almeida Maria Rosário , do Carmo Macário Maria , Santana Isabel , Peça João , Cardoso Ana Luísa
Published: August 2022

Mutations in granulin (GRN) have been associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). In Portugal, GRN mutations account for around half of all FTLD cases with known genetic origin. Here, we describe the generation and characterization of three human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines from a Portuguese family harboring heterozygous and homozygous GRN mutation. hiPSCs were reprogrammed from human dermal fibroblasts by episomal nucleofection of the Yamanaka factors. The new generated lines were positive for pluripotency markers, could be further differentiated to cells expressing all trilineage markers, and presented a normal karyotype. They were also capable of differentiating into 3D brain organoids and presented a significant decrease in progranulin protein levels. Hence, these cell lines constitute suitable new tools to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with the GRN mutations in the context of FTLD.
Insights into the Role of Glucagon Receptor Signaling in Metabolic Regulation from Pharmacological Inhibition and Tissue-Specific Knockout Models
Authors: Lasher A Tate , Srivastava Hemant , Sun Liou Y.
Published: August 2022

While glucagon has long been recognized as the primary counter hormone to insulin’s actions, it has recently gained recognition as a metabolic regulator with its effects extending beyond control of glycemia. Recently developed models of tissue-specific glucagon receptor knockouts have advanced our understanding of this hormone, providing novel insight into the role it plays within organs as well as its systemic effects. Studies where the pharmacological blockade of the glucagon receptor has been employed have proved similarly valuable in the study of organ-specific and systemic roles of glucagon signaling. Studies carried out employing these tools demonstrate that glucagon indeed plays a role in regulating glycemia, but also in amino acid and lipid metabolism, systemic endocrine, and paracrine function, and in the response to cardiovascular injury. Here, we briefly review recent progress in our understanding of glucagon’s role made through inhibition of glucagon receptor signaling utilizing glucagon receptor antagonists and tissue specific genetic knockout models.
Cholesterol Synthesis Is Important for Breast Cancer Cell Tumor Sphere Formation and Invasion
Authors: Kim Hee Yeon , Bae Sung Jin , Choi Ji-Woong , Han Suji , Bae Seung-Hyun , Cheong Jae-Ho , Jang Hyonchol
Published: August 2022

Breast cancer has a high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis after remission. Controlling distant metastasis is important for reducing breast cancer mortality, but accomplishing this goal remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the molecular pathways underlying metastasis using cells that mimic the breast cancer distant metastasis process. HCC1143 breast cancer cells were cultured under two-dimensional (2D)-adherent, tumor sphere (TS), and reattached (ReA) culture conditions to mimic primary tumors, circulating tumor cells, and metastasized tumors, respectively. ReA cells demonstrated increased TS formation and enhanced invasion capacity compared to the original 2D-cultured parental cells. In addition, ReA cells had a higher frequency of ESA+CD44+CD24− population, which represents a stem-cell-like cell population. RNA sequencing identified the cholesterol synthesis pathway as one of the most significantly increased pathways in TS and ReA cells compared to parental cells, which was verified by measuring intracellular cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the pharmacological inhibition of the cholesterol synthesis pathway decreased the ability of cancer cells to form TSs and invade. Our results suggest that the cholesterol synthesis pathway plays an important role in the distant metastasis of breast cancer cells by augmenting TS formation and invasion capacity.
Neuromodulation Therapy for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: D’Souza Ryan S. , Her Yeng F. , Jin Max Y. , Morsi Mahmoud , Abd-Elsayed Alaa
Published: August 2022

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating and painful condition in patients who have received chemotherapy. The role of neuromodulation therapy in treating pain and improving neurological function in CIPN remains unclear and warrants evidence appraisal. In compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we performed a systematic review to assess change in pain intensity and neurological function after implementation of any neuromodulation intervention for CIPN. Neuromodulation interventions consisted of dorsal column spinal cord stimulation (SCS), dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG-S), or peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS). In total, 15 studies utilized SCS (16 participants), 7 studies utilized DRG-S (7 participants), and 1 study utilized PNS (50 participants). Per the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) criteria, there was very low-quality GRADE evidence supporting that dorsal column SCS, DRG-S, and PNS are associated with a reduction in pain severity from CIPN. Results on changes in neurological function remained equivocal due to mixed study findings on thermal sensory thresholds and touch sensation or discrimination. Future prospective, well-powered, and comparative studies assessing neuromodulation for CIPN are warranted.
Chemerin: A Functional Adipokine in Reproductive Health and Diseases
Authors: Yu Ming , Yang Yali , Huang Chen , Ge Lei , Xue Li , Xiao Zhonglin , Xiao Tianxia , Zhao Huashan , Ren Peigen , Zhang Jian V.
Published: August 2022

As a multifaceted adipokine, chemerin has been found to perform functions vital for immunity, adiposity, and metabolism through its three known receptors (chemokine-like receptor 1, CMKLR1; G-protein-coupled receptor 1, GPR1; C-C motif chemokine receptor-like 2, CCRL2). Chemerin and the cognate receptors are also expressed in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, testis, ovary, and placenta. Accumulating studies suggest that chemerin participates in normal reproduction and underlies the pathological mechanisms of certain reproductive system diseases, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), preeclampsia, and breast cancer. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the roles of the chemerin system in multiple reproductive processes and human reproductive diseases, with a brief discussion and perspectives on future clinical applications.
Analysis of Genetic Variants in the Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene NR3C1 and Stenosis of the Carotid Artery in a Polish Population with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Gorący Jarosław , Gorący Anna , Wójcik-Grzeszczuk Aldona , Gorący Iwona , Rosik Jakub
Published: August 2022

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Early diagnosis and elimination of risk factors are crucial for better managing CVDs. Atherosclerosis, whose development might be associated with glucocorticoids (GCs), is a critical factor in the development of carotid artery (CA) stenosis and most other CVDs. Aim: To investigate the association of Tth111I, N363S, and ER22/23EK-NR3C1 polymorphisms and the incidence of CA stenosis. Methods: The study group consisted of 117 patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD) and CA stenosis and 88 patients with CAD and ruled out CA stenosis. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood, and genotyping was carried out using Tth111I, N363S, and ER22/23EK-NR3C1 polymorphism sequencing. Results: No significant association between studied polymorphisms and the incidence or the severity of CA stenosis in the Polish population with CAD was found. Conclusion: This is the first study that proves that common NR3C1 gene variants do not influence CA stenosis and probably are not associated with atherosclerosis. The search for genes that can act as prognostic markers in predicting CA stenosis is still ongoing.
Biomimetic Design for Building Energy Efficiency 2021
Authors: Imani Negin , Vale Brenda
Published: August 2022

Nature has been the source of inspiration for the design and construction of buildings in various ways and at different levels of complexity [...]
Measuring Photonics in Photosynthesis: Combined Micro-Fourier Image Spectroscopy and Pulse Amplitude Modulated Chlorophyll Fluorimetry at the Micrometre-Scale
Authors: Wardley William P. , Goessling Johannes W. , Lopez-Garcia Martin
Published: August 2022

Natural photonic structures are common across the biological kingdoms, serving a diversity of functionalities. The study of implications of photonic structures in plants and other phototrophic organisms is still hampered by missing methodologies for determining in situ photonic properties, particularly in the context of constantly adapting photosynthetic systems controlled by acclimation mechanisms on the cellular scale. We describe an innovative approach to determining spatial and spectral photonic properties and photosynthesis activity, employing micro-Fourier Image Spectroscopy and Pulse Amplitude Modulated Chlorophyll Fluorimetry in a combined microscope setup. Using two examples from the photosynthetic realm, the dynamic Bragg-stack-like thylakoid structures of Begonia sp. and complex 2.5 D photonic crystal slabs from the diatom Coscinodiscus granii, we demonstrate how the setup can be used for measuring self-adapting photonic-photosynthetic systems and photonic properties on single-cell scales. We suggest that the setup is well-suited for the determination of photonic–photosynthetic systems in a diversity of organisms, facilitating the cellular, temporal, spectral and angular resolution of both light distribution and combined chlorophyll fluorescence determination. As the catalogue of photonic structure from photosynthetic organisms is rich and diverse in examples, a deepened study could inspire the design of novel optical- and light-harvesting technologies.
Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip for Studies of Cell Migration under Spatial Confinement
Authors: Sala Federico , Ficorella Carlotta , Osellame Roberto , Käs Josef , Martínez Vázquez Rebeca
Published: August 2022

Understanding cell migration is a key step in unraveling many physiological phenomena and predicting several pathologies, such as cancer metastasis. In particular, confinement has been proven to be a key factor in the cellular migration strategy choice. As our insight in the field improves, new tools are needed in order to empower biologists’ analysis capabilities. In this framework, microfluidic devices have been used to engineer the mechanical and spatial stimuli and to investigate cellular migration response in a more controlled way. In this work, we will review the existing technologies employed in the realization of microfluidic cellular migration assays, namely the soft lithography of PDMS and hydrogels and femtosecond laser micromachining. We will give an overview of the state of the art of these devices, focusing on the different geometrical configurations that have been exploited to study specific aspects of cellular migration. Our scope is to highlight the advantages and possibilities given by each approach and to envisage the future developments in in vitro migration studies under spatial confinement in microfluidic devices.
A Perturbed Asymmetrical Y-TypeSheathless Chip for Particle Control Based on Adjustable Tilted-Angle Traveling Surface Acoustic Waves (ataTSAWs)
Authors: Duan Junping , Ji Miaomiao , Zhang Binzhen
Published: August 2022

The precise control of target particles (20 µm) at different inclination angles θi is achieved by combining a perturbed asymmetric sheathless Y-type microchannel and a digital transducer (IDT). The offset single-row micropillar array with the buffer area can not only concentrate large and small particles in a fixed region of the flow channel, but also avoid the large deflection of some small particles at the end of the array. The addition of the buffer area can effectively improve the separation purity of the chip. By exploring the manufacturing process of the microchannel substrate, an adjustable tilted-angle scheme is proposed. The use of ataTSAW makes the acoustic field area in the microchannel have no corner effect region. Through experiments, when the signal source frequency was 33.6 MHz, and the flow rate was 20 µL/min, our designed chip could capture 20 µm particles when θi = 5°. The deflection of 20 µm particles can be realized when θi = 15°–45°. The precise dynamic separation of 20 µm particles can be achieved when θi = 25°–45°, and the separation purity and efficiency were 97% and 100%, respectively.
Robotic Verticalization plus Music Therapy in Chronic Disorders of Consciousness: Promising Results from a Pilot Study
Authors: De Luca Rosaria , Bonanno Mirjam , Vermiglio Giuliana , Trombetta Giovanni , Andidero Ersilia , Caminiti Angelo , Pollicino Patrizia , Rifici Carmela , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: August 2022

Background: Music stimulation is considered a valuable form of intervention in disorders of consciousness (DoC); for instance, verticalization may improve motor and cognitive recovery. Our purpose is to investigate the effects of a novel rehabilitative approach combining robotic verticalization training (RVT) with personalized music stimulation in people with DoC. Methods: Sixteen subjects affected by minimally conscious state due to traumatic brain lesions who attended our Intensive Neuro-Rehabilitation Unit were enrolled in this randomized trial. They received either music robotic verticalization (MRV) using the Erigo device plus a personalized music playlist or only RVT without music stimuli. Each treatment was performed 2 times a week for 8 consecutive weeks in addition to standard neurorehabilitation. Results: We found significant improvements in all patients’ outcomes in the experimental group (who received MRV): Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) (p < 0.01), Level of Cognitive Functioning (LCF) (p < 0.02), Functional Independence Measure (FIM) (p < 0.03), Functional Communication Scale (FCS) (p < 0.007), Trunk Control Test (TCT) (p = 0.05). Significant differences between the two groups were also found in the main outcome measure CRS-R (p < 0.01) but not for TCT and FIM. Conclusions: Our study supports the safety and effectiveness of RVT with the Erigo device in chronic MCS, and the achievement of better outcomes when RVT is combined with music stimulation.
Bilateral Facial Weakness with Distal Paresthesia Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Scoping Review for an Atypical Variant of Guillain–Barré Syndrome
Authors: Kim Yoo-Hwan , Kim Jee-Eun , Yoon Byeol-A , Kim Jong-Kuk , Bae Jong-Seok
Published: August 2022

Background and Purpose: Recent population-based studies from the US and UK have identified an increase in the occurrence of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. However, the localized variant of GBS might be underestimated due to its rarity and atypical features. We aimed to identify and characterize bilateral facial weakness with distal paresthesia (BFWdp) as a GBS variant following COVID-19 vaccination. Materials and Methods: Relevant studies published during the COVID-19 pandemic were searched and identified in the MEDLINE, Embase, and other databases. Results: This review found that 18 BFWdp cases presented characteristics similar to previous BFWdp cases as defined in the literature: male dominance, frequent albuminocytological dissociation, and acute inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy pattern. In contrast, facial nerve enhancement on brain MRI and antiganglioside antibody positivity were often observed in BFWdp following COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusions: The mechanism of BFWdp following COVID-19 vaccination appears to be somewhat different from that of sporadic BFWdp. Neurological syndromes with rare incidence and difficulty in diagnosis should be considered adverse events of COVID-19 vaccination.
Prediction of Cognitive Degeneration in Parkinson’s Disease Patients Using a Machine Learning Method
Authors: Chen Pei-Hao , Hou Ting-Yi , Cheng Fang-Yu , Shaw Jin-Siang
Published: August 2022

This study developed a predictive model for cognitive degeneration in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) using a machine learning method. The clinical data, plasma biomarkers, and neuropsychological test results of patients with PD were collected and utilized as model predictors. Machine learning methods comprising support vector machines (SVMs) and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to obtain a cognitive classification model. Using 32 comprehensive predictive parameters, the PCA-SVM classifier reached 92.3% accuracy and 0.929 area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Furthermore, the accuracy could be increased to 100% and the AUC to 1.0 in a PCA-SVM model using only 13 carefully chosen features.
Men’s Physical Stature: Tackling Heightism and Challenges in Fashion Consumption
Authors: Rahman Osmud , Navarro Henry Delgado
Published: August 2022

In light of the limitations of previous research on fashion consumption by short men, the present study was undertaken to examine the relationship between male body image, height perceptions, clothing choice, garment fit, and heightism. In this study, 3D body scanning technology and in-depth interviews were employed to investigate the relational effects between men’s height, body image, and clothing consumption. In total, twelve men exhibiting a height of 5′ 8″ or less participated. The findings indicate that “heightism” is prevalent in today’s society. As well, the results reveal that overall appearance and physical stature become less important as people grow older. It is evident that short male consumers encounter challenges when they shop for fashionable and well-fitting clothing. They are underserved by the fashion industry and often impacted by judgmental biases. The study supports that garment alteration and buying clothes from the children’s section, or a bespoke tailor are not ideal solutions for short men. Furthermore, many of them just accept the fact that they are short and try to find ways to alleviate their frustration when consuming fashion.
Identifying Key Selection Criteria for Smart Building Technologies in the United Arab Emirates Prisons
Authors: Aldhaheri Mohammed Abdulla Mohammed Mesfer , Xia Bo , Nepal Madhav
Published: August 2022

The selection of an appropriate smart building technology has been a challenge for stakeholders, because no specific selection criteria are currently available. This study aimed to identify the potential selection criteria for the selection of smart building technologies for prison buildings in the United Arab Emirates. A questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate the relative importance of smart building technologies and the specific selection criteria. 238 experts from the public and the private sector with rich experience in the construction and prison industry participated in the survey. The data obtained were analyzed for descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test was conducted to compare the responses of the government and private sector respondents. Cronbach’s coefficient was estimated using reliability analysis. Finally, exploratory factor analysis was performed by Principal Axis Factoring (PAF) to extract the contributing factors and was further improved by varimax rotation using SPSS. To evaluate the appropriateness of the factor extraction, the Kaiser-Mayer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling accuracy and Barlett’s test of sphericity were conducted. The results demonstrated that most participants thought that the safety and security, anti-hacking capability, high working efficiency, and durability of the new smart building technology were very important. 14 listed selection criteria were extracted into three factors by factor analysis explaining 50.585% total variation. Regarding smart building technologies, fire protection was mostly voted by the participants followed by video surveillance and heat, ventilation, and air-conditioning system (HVAC). This study is a novel research study identifying the key selection criteria for the selection of important smart building technologies and would be helpful for a broad audience.
An Analytical Solution for Steel Plate Strengthened Circular Tunnels with Various Interface Slip Modes
Authors: Zhai Wuzhou , Sun Keguo , Zhang Dongming , Huang Hongwei , Chapman David
Published: August 2022

A simplified analytical solution for steel plate strengthened circular tunnel concrete linings is presented, considering various interface slip modes. The full derivation for the analytical solution is introduced in detail, from which explicit expressions for the stress and displacement fields throughout the system are obtained. The distribution of lining deformation, internal force, and the interaction stress between tunnel lining and steel plate were investigated by considering various tunnel-steel interface scenarios, namely no slip, full slip, and elastic slip. The result demonstrates the importance of having a well-bonded interface to maximize the benefits of the steel plate strengthening approach. The maximum interface shear stress locates at the position with minimum interface normal stress. Subsequently, the influence of interface shear stiffness and steel plate thickness on the composited tunnel lining performance was investigated. It is founded that the improvement of the interface shear stiffness can enhance the overall structural stiffness of the strengthened tunnel lining, which results in increases in the interaction stresses and lining forces simultaneously. With a ratio of the steel thickness to the tunnel lining thickness less than 0.1, greater achievement in both strengthening effectiveness and cost efficiency is obtained.
How Does the Government Promote the Collaborative Innovation of Green Building Projects? An Evolutionary Game Perspective
Authors: Zeng Xiaochun , Li Suicheng , Yin Shi , Xing Zeyu
Published: August 2022

In order to study how to promote the collaborative innovation of green building projects of construction enterprises, this paper establishes an evolutionary game model of suppliers’ participation in collaborative innovation of green building projects of construction enterprises under government governance. Through a numerical simulation, our research analyzes the influence of government tax preference, government infrastructure construction, and environmental pollution punishment on the behavior of the government, suppliers, and construction enterprises. The empirical research shows that the government’s tax incentives will continue to encourage suppliers to choose collaborative innovation. If the government’s short-term tax incentives are small, construction enterprises will evolve in the direction of midway betrayal. When the government’s long-term tax incentives are large, construction enterprises will evolve in the direction of the collaborative innovation of green building projects. Furthermore, the government’s infrastructure support for suppliers to participate in collaborative innovation of green building projects of construction enterprises will encourage suppliers and construction enterprises to choose green building projects for collaborative innovation. With the continuous maturity of green building projects in the construction market, the government has evolved from positive governance to negative governance. The government will take the opportunity to give up infrastructure construction and turn to other supporting policies. Lastly, a low intensity of environmental pollution punishment makes it difficult to promote the construction enterprises to evolve in the direction of collaborative innovation. A moderate intensity of environmental pollution punishment can encourage construction enterprises to evolve in the direction of collaborative innovation, while high-intensity environmental pollution punishment can encourage construction enterprises to choose the direction of midway betrayal. Environmental pollution punishment has no significant impact on suppliers’ selection of collaborative innovation of green building projects in the short term.