bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Green Hiring on Sustainable Performance: Mediating Role of Green Performance Management and Compensation
Authors: Martins José Moleiro , Aftab Hira , Mata Mário Nuno , Majeed Muhammad Ussama , Aslam Sumaira , Correia Anabela Batista , Mata Pedro Neves
Published: May 2021

The global need to preserve ecology has propelled the green movement across the globe. An emerging managerial challenge for all organizations is to protect natural resources by reducing their negative impact on the environment and increase sustainable performance. Greening is the need of the age to conserve natural resources. This study investigates the impact of green human resource management practice—i.e., green hiring—on the sustainable performance of public and private healthcare organizations. A quantitative research approach was used for data collection. Scale survey of 160 responses was gathered from public and private healthcare organizations. Partial least square–structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. The study results suggest that green recruitment has a positive and significant impact on environmental performance, economic performance, and social performance. Path coefficients test also revealed that green performance management and compensation significantly mediate the relationship between green hiring and sustainable performance of public and private healthcare organizations. This study is helpful for organizations in adapting GHRM practices that will benefit the organizations in all ways. This study also provides a better understanding to policymakers on how to promote GHRM practices and increase sustainability in organizations.
Health Service Utilization and Out-of-Pocket Expenditure Associated with the Continuum of Disability in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Liem , Lee John Tayu , Hulse Emily S. G. , Hoang Minh Van , Kim Giang Bao , Le Duong Bach
Published: May 2021

Reducing the burden of disability is key priority in many countries where the population is aging rapidly. The relationships between disability, health expenditure and economic burden are complex, particularly when disability is recognized as a continuum rather than a dichotomous phenomenon. However, these complex relationships are not adequately addressed in national health policy and management plans in Vietnam. This paper examines the economic consequences of disability across its continuum or levels of severity. Two-part regression models were applied to assess the relationships between disability, health service use and the out-of-pocket expenditure. We found that Vietnamese adults with disabilities had multiple characteristics of vulnerability, e.g., older, less likely to be employed, lower education, and poorer than adults without disabilities. These characteristics are associated with poorer health and higher need of healthcare utilization but, after controlling for these factors, disability still had an independent association with higher health expenditure and greater economic burden at their household (p < 0.05). Our study provides empirical evidence of the economic burden associated across the continuum of disability in Vietnam. Decisive action is critical for protecting persons with disability from medical impoverishment, and such targeted interventions should include those with moderate disability rather than the current focus on severe disability.
Occupational Health and Safety, Organisational Commitment, and Turnover Intention in the Spanish IT Consultancy Sector
Authors: Suárez-Albanchez Julio , Blazquez-Resino Juan Jose , Gutierrez-Broncano Santiago , Jimenez-Estevez Pedro
Published: May 2021

Background: The purpose of this study is to analyse the impact that occupational health and safety policies have on employees’ work and organisational commitment and, in turn, on their intention to leave the company. Methods: For this study, we designed a questionnaire with a five-level Likert scale and distributed it among professionals from different companies in the IT consultancy sector in Spain. The data collected from 458 completed questionnaires were analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique using the SmartPLS software. Results: From the analysis of the data, it was concluded that there is indeed a positive relationship between occupational health and safety policies and employees’ work and organisational commitment, as well as a negative relationship between these policies and the intention to leave the company. Similarly, there is a negative relationship between employees’ work and organisational commitment and their turnover intention. Conclusions: Although, due to the activity of professionals in the sector, occupational health and safety has not been an area of priority, it was concluded from this study that an improvement in these areas would have a beneficial effect on the commitment of workers to the company, thus helping to reduce the high levels of turnover in the sector. Future lines of research, as well as their practical application and the limitations of the study, are indicated at the end of the paper.
A Comparative Analysis of Retrieval Algorithms of Land Surface Temperature from Landsat-8 Data: A Case Study of Shanghai, China
Authors: Jiang Yue , Lin Wenpeng
Published: May 2021

In the trend of global warming and urbanization, frequent extreme weather has a severe impact on the lives of citizens. Land Surface Temperature (LST) is an essential climate variable and a vital parameter for land surface processes at local and global scales. Retrieving LST from global, regional, and city-scale thermal infrared remote sensing data has unparalleled advantages and is one of the most common methods used to study urban heat island effects. Different algorithms have been developed for retrieving LST using satellite imagery, such as the Radiative Transfer Equation (RTE), Mono-Window Algorithm (MWA), Split-Window Algorithm (SWA), and Single-Channel Algorithm (SCA). A case study was performed in Shanghai to evaluate these existing algorithms in the retrieval of LST from Landsat-8 images. To evaluate the estimated LST accurately, measured data from meteorological stations and the MOD11A2 product were used for validation. The results showed that the four algorithms could achieve good results in retrieving LST, and the LST retrieval results were generally consistent within a spatial scale. SWA is more suitable for retrieving LST in Shanghai during the summer, a season when the temperature and the humidity are both very high in Shanghai. Highest retrieval accuracy could be seen in cultivated land, vegetation, wetland, and water body. SWA was more sensitive to the error caused by land surface emissivity (LSE). In low temperature and a dry winter, RTE, SWA, and SCA are relatively more reliable. Both RTE and SCA were sensitive to the error caused by atmospheric water vapor content. These results can provide a reasonable reference for the selection of LST retrieval algorithms for different periods in Shanghai.
Exercise Intensity and Technical Involvement in U9 Team Handball: Effect of Game Format
Authors: Ermidis Georgios , Ellegard Rasmus C. , Rago Vincenzo , Randers Morten B. , Krustrup Peter , Larsen Malte N.
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to quantify the exercise intensity and technical involvement of U9 boys’ and girls’ team handball during different game formats, and the differences between genders. Locomotor activity (total distance, distance in speed zones, accelerations, and decelerations), heart rate (HR), and technical involvement (shots, goals, and duels) metrics were collected during various 15 min game formats from a total of 57 Danish U9 players (37 boys and 20 girls). Game formats were a small size pitch (20 × 13 m) with 3 vs. 3 players and offensive goalkeepers (S3 + 1) and 4 vs. 4 players (S4), a medium size pitch (25.8 × 20 m) with 4 vs. 4 (M4) and 5 vs. 5 (M5) players, and a large size pitch (40 × 20 m) with 5 vs. 5 (L5) players. Boys and girls covered a higher total distance (TD) of high-speed running (HSR) and sprinting during L5 games compared to all other game formats (p < 0.05; ES = (−0.9 to −2.1), (−1.4 to −2.8), and (−0.9 to −1.3) respectively). Players covered the highest amount of sprinting distance in L5 games compared to all other game formats (p < 0.01; ES = 0.8 to 1.4). In all the game formats, players spent from 3.04 to 5.96 min in 180–200 bpm and 0.03 min to 0.85 min in >200 bpm of the total 15 min. In addition, both genders had more shots in S3 + 1 than M5 (p < 0.01; ES = 1.0 (0.4; 1.7)) and L5 (p < 0.01; ES = 1.1 (0.6; 2.2)). Team handball matches have high heart rates, total distances covered, and high-intensity running distances for U9 boys and girls irrespective of the game format. Locomotor demands appeared to be even higher when playing on larger pitches, whereas the smaller pitch size and fewer players led to elevated technical involvement.
Folate Receptor Beta as a Direct and Indirect Target for Antibody-Based Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Roy Allison G. , Robinson J. Michael , Sharma Prannda , Rodriguez-Garcia Alba , Poussin Mathilde A. , Nickerson-Nutter Cheryl , Powell Daniel J.
Published: May 2021

Folate receptor beta (FRβ) is a folate binding receptor expressed on myeloid lineage hematopoietic cells. FRβ is commonly expressed at high levels on malignant blasts in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as on M2 polarized tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment of many solid tumors. Therefore, FRβ is a potential target for both direct and indirect cancer therapy. We demonstrate that FRβ is expressed in both AML cell lines and patient-derived AML samples and that a high-affinity monoclonal antibody against FRβ (m909) has the ability to cause dose- and expression-dependent ADCC against these cells in vitro. Importantly, we find that administration of m909 has a significant impact on tumor growth in a humanized mouse model of AML. Surprisingly, m909 functions in vivo with and without the infusion of human NK cells as mediators of ADCC, suggesting potential involvement of mouse macrophages as effector cells. We also found that TAMs from primary ovarian ascites samples expressed appreciable levels of FRβ and that m909 has the ability to cause ADCC in these samples. These results indicate that the targeting of FRβ using m909 has the potential to limit the outgrowth of AML in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, m909 causes cytotoxicity to TAMs in the tumor microenvironment of ovarian cancer warranting further investigation of m909 and its derivatives as therapeutic agents in patients with FRβ-expressing cancers.
Evidences for a Role of Gut Microbiota in Pathogenesis and Management of Epilepsy
Authors: Amlerova Jana , Šroubek Jan , Angelucci Francesco , Hort Jakub
Published: May 2021

Epilepsy as a chronic neurological disorder is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked epileptic seizures. In about half of the people who suffer from epilepsy, the root cause of the disorder is unknown. In the other cases, different factors can cause the onset of epilepsy. In recent years, the role of gut microbiota has been recognized in many neurological disorders, including epilepsy. These data are based on studies of the gut microbiota–brain axis, a relationship starting by a dysbiosis followed by an alteration of brain functions. Interestingly, epileptic patients may show signs of dysbiosis, therefore the normalization of the gut microbiota may lead to improvement of epilepsy and to greater efficacy of anticonvulsant drugs. In this descriptive review, we analyze the evidences for the role of gut microbiota in epilepsy and hypothesize a mechanism of action of these microorganisms in the pathogenesis and treatment of the disease. Human studies revealed an increased prevalence of Firmicutes in patients with refractory epilepsy. Exposure to various compounds can change microbiota composition, decreasing or exacerbating epileptic seizures. These include antibiotics, epileptic drugs, probiotics and ketogenic diet. Finally, we hypothesize that physical activity may play a role in epilepsy through the modulation of the gut microbiota.
Telomere Length in Metaphase Chromosomes of Human Triploid Zygotes
Authors: Pendina Anna A. , Krapivin Mikhail I. , Efimova Olga A. , Tikhonov Andrei V. , Mekina Irina D. , Komarova Evgeniia M. , Koltsova Alla S. , Gzgzyan Alexander M. , Kogan Igor Yu. , Chiryaeva Olga G. , Baranov Vladislav S.
Published: May 2021

The human lifespan is strongly influenced by telomere length (TL) which is defined in a zygote—when two highly specialised haploid cells form a new diploid organism. Although TL is a variable parameter, it fluctuates in a limited range. We aimed to establish the determining factors of TL in chromosomes of maternal and paternal origin in human triploid zygotes. Using Q-FISH, we examined TL in the metaphase chromosomes of 28 human triploid zygotes obtained from 22 couples. The chromosomes’ parental origin was identified immunocytochemically through weak DNA methylation and strong hydroxymethylation in the sperm-derived (paternal) chromosomes versus strong DNA methylation and weak hydroxymethylation in the oocyte-derived (maternal) ones. In 24 zygotes, one maternal and two paternal chromosome sets were identified, while the four remaining zygotes contained one paternal and two maternal sets. For each zygote, we compared mean relative TLs between parental chromosomes, identifying a significant difference in favour of the paternal chromosomes, which attests to a certain “imprinting” of these regions. Mean relative TLs in paternal or maternal chromosomes did not correlate with the respective parent’s age. Similarly, no correlation was observed between the mean relative TL and sperm quality parameters: concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology. Based on the comparison of TLs in chromosomes inherited from a single individual’s gametes with those in chromosomes inherited from different individuals’ gametes, we compared intraindividual (intercellular) and interindividual variability, obtaining significance in favour of the latter and thus validating the role of heredity in determining TL in zygotes. A comparison of the interchromatid TL differences across the chromosomes from sets of different parental origin with those from PHA-stimulated lymphocytes showed an absence of a significant difference between the maternal and paternal sets but a significant excess over the lymphocytes. Therefore, interchromatid TL differences are more pronounced in zygotes than in lymphocytes. To summarise, TL in human zygotes is determined both by heredity and parental origin; the input of other factors is possible within the individual’s reaction norm.
A WRKY Transcription Factor, EjWRKY17, from Eriobotrya japonica Enhances Drought Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Dan , Chen Qiyang , Chen Weiwei , Liu Xinya , Xia Yan , Guo Qigao , Jing Danlong , Liang Guolu
Published: May 2021

The WRKY gene family, which is one of the largest transcription factor (TF) families, plays an important role in numerous aspects of plant growth and development, especially in various stress responses. However, the functional roles of the WRKY gene family in loquat are relatively unknown. In this study, a novel WRKY gene, EjWRKY17, was characterized from Eriobotrya japonica, which was significantly upregulated in leaves by melatonin treatment during drought stress. The EjWRKY17 protein, belonging to group II of the WRKY family, was localized in the nucleus. The results indicated that overexpression of EjWRKY17 increased cotyledon greening and root elongation in transgenic Arabidopsis lines under abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. Meanwhile, overexpression of EjWRKY17 led to enhanced drought tolerance in transgenic lines, which was supported by the lower water loss, limited electrolyte leakage, and lower levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Further investigations showed that overexpression of EjWRKY17 promoted ABA-mediated stomatal closure and remarkably up-regulated ABA biosynthesis and stress-related gene expression in transgenic lines under drought stress. Overall, our findings reveal that EjWRKY17 possibly acts as a positive regulator in ABA-regulated drought tolerance.
Nuclear Respiratory Factor-1, a Novel SMAD4 Binding Protein, Represses TGF-β/SMAD4 Signaling by Functioning as a Transcriptional Cofactor
Authors: Rajasekaran Nirmal , Song Kyoung , Lee Jin-Hee , Wei Yun , Erkin Özgür Cem , Lee Hunseok , Shin Young-Kee
Published: May 2021

SMAD4, a key regulator of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling, plays a major role in cell growth, migration, and apoptosis. In particular, TGF-β/SMAD induces growth arrest, and SMAD4 induces the expression of target genes such as p21WAF1 and p15INK4b through its interaction with several cofactors. Thus, inactivating mutations or the homozygous deletion of SMAD4 could be related to tumorigenesis or malignancy progression. However, in some cancer types, SMAD4 is neither mutated nor deleted. In the current study, we demonstrate that TGF-β signaling with a preserved SMAD4 function can contribute to cancer through associations with negative pathway regulators. We found that nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF1) is a novel interaction SMAD4 partner that inhibits TGF-β/SMAD4-induced p15INK4b mRNA expression by binding to SMAD4. Furthermore, we confirmed that NRF1 directly binds to the core region of the SMAD4 promoter, thereby decreasing SMAD4 mRNA expression. On the whole, our data suggest that NRF1 is a negative regulator of SMAD4 and can interfere with TGF-β/SMAD-induced tumor suppression. Our findings provide a novel perception into the molecular basis of TGF-β/SMAD4-signaling suppression in tumorigenesis.
Antitumor Effects of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid on Human Malignant Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Jalili-Nik Mohammad , Abbasinezhad-moud Farzaneh , Sahab-Negah Sajad , Maghrouni Abolfazl , Etezad Razavi Mohammad , Khaleghi Ghadiri Maryam , Stummer Walter , Gorji Ali
Published: May 2021

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a naturally occurring non-proteinogenic amino acid, which contributes to the diagnosis and therapeutic approaches of various cancers, including glioblastoma (GBM). In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether 5-ALA exerted cytotoxic effects on GBM cells. We assessed cell viability, apoptosis rate, mRNA expressions of various apoptosis-related genes, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and migration ability of the human U-87 malignant GBM cell line (U87MG) treated with 5-ALA at different doses. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 5-ALA on U87MG cells was 500 μg/mL after 7 days; 5-ALA was not toxic for human optic cells and NIH-3T3 cells at this concentration. The application of 5-ALA led to a significant increase in apoptotic cells, enhancement of Bax and p53 expressions, reduction in Bcl-2 expression, and an increase in ROS generation. Furthermore, the application of 5-ALA increased the accumulation of U87MG cells in the SUB-G1 population, decreased the expression of cyclin D1, and reduced the migration ability of U87MG cells. Our data indicate the potential cytotoxic effects of 5-ALA on U87MG cells. Further studies are required to determine the spectrum of the antitumor activity of 5-ALA on GBM.
Inhibitory Effect of a Glutamine Antagonist on Proliferation and Migration of VSMCs via Simultaneous Attenuation of Glycolysis and Oxidative Phosphorylation
Authors: Park Hyeon Young , Kim Mi-Jin , Lee Seunghyeong , Jin Jonghwa , Lee Sungwoo , Kim Jung-Guk , Choi Yeon-Kyung , Park Keun-Gyu
Published: May 2021

Excessive proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and restenosis. Glycolysis and glutaminolysis are increased in rapidly proliferating VSMCs to support their increased energy requirements and biomass production. Thus, it is essential to develop new pharmacological tools that regulate metabolic reprogramming in VSMCs for treatment of atherosclerosis. The effects of 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON), a glutamine antagonist, have been broadly investigated in highly proliferative cells; however, it is unclear whether DON inhibits proliferation of VSMCs and neointima formation. Here, we investigated the effects of DON on neointima formation in vivo as well as proliferation and migration of VSMCs in vitro. DON simultaneously inhibited FBS- or PDGF-stimulated glycolysis and glutaminolysis as well as mammalian target of rapamycin complex I activity in growth factor-stimulated VSMCs, and thereby suppressed their proliferation and migration. Furthermore, a DON-derived prodrug, named JHU-083, significantly attenuated carotid artery ligation-induced neointima formation in mice. Our results suggest that treatment with a glutamine antagonist is a promising approach to prevent progression of atherosclerosis and restenosis.
Polymorphisms in EGFR Gene Predict Clinical Outcome in Unresectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Radiotherapy and Platinum-Based Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Butkiewicz Dorota , Krześniak Małgorzata , Gdowicz-Kłosok Agnieszka , Giglok Monika , Marszałek-Zeńczak Małgorzata , Suwiński Rafał
Published: May 2021

For non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), radiotherapy (RT) and platinum-based chemotherapy (CHT) are among the main treatment options. On the other hand, radioresistance and cytotoxic drug resistance are common causes of failure. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in radioresponse and therapy resistance. We hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the EGFR gene might affect individual sensitivity to these treatments, and thus, therapy outcome and prognosis. The association between functional EGFR SNPs and overall (OS), locoregional recurrence-free (LFRS), and metastasis-free (MFS) survival was examined in 436 patients with unresectable NSCLC receiving RT and platinum-based CHTRT. In a multivariate analysis, the rs712830 CC homozygotes showed reduced OS in the whole group (p = 0.039) and in the curative treatment subset (p = 0.047). The rs712829 TT genotype was strongly associated with decreased LRFS (p = 0.006), and the T-C haplotype was a risk factor for locoregional recurrence in our patients (p = 0.003). The rs2227983 GG alone and in combination with rs712829 T was an indicator of unfavorable LRFS (p = 0.028 and 0.002, respectively). Moreover, significant independent effects of these SNPs on OS, LRFS, and MFS were observed. Our results demonstrate that inherited EGFR gene variants may predict clinical outcomes in NSCLC treated with DNA damage-inducing therapy.
Plastic Degradation by Extremophilic Bacteria
Authors: Atanasova Nikolina , Stoitsova Stoyanka , Paunova-Krasteva Tsvetelina , Kambourova Margarita
Published: May 2021

Intensive exploitation, poor recycling, low repeatable use, and unusual resistance of plastics to environmental and microbiological action result in accumulation of huge waste amounts in terrestrial and marine environments, causing enormous hazard for human and animal life. In the last decades, much scientific interest has been focused on plastic biodegradation. Due to the comparatively short evolutionary period of their appearance in nature, sufficiently effective enzymes for their biodegradation are not available. Plastics are designed for use in conditions typical for human activity, and their physicochemical properties roughly change at extreme environmental parameters like low temperatures, salt, or low or high pH that are typical for the life of extremophilic microorganisms and the activity of their enzymes. This review represents a first attempt to summarize the extraordinarily limited information on biodegradation of conventional synthetic plastics by thermophilic, alkaliphilic, halophilic, and psychrophilic bacteria in natural environments and laboratory conditions. Most of the available data was reported in the last several years and concerns moderate extremophiles. Two main questions are highlighted in it: which extremophilic bacteria and their enzymes are reported to be involved in the degradation of different synthetic plastics, and what could be the impact of extremophiles in future technologies for resolving of pollution problems.
Knowledge and Innovation Management Model in the Organizational Environment
Authors: Romero-Hidalgo Jorge Alberto , Isiordia-Lachica Paula C. , Valenzuela Alejandro , Rodríguez-Carvajal Ricardo Alberto
Published: May 2021

The objective of this research is to develop a methodology that allows the construction of a standard of knowledge management and technological innovation applicable to the field of the universities in Mexico, the use of which results in better use of their resources and the improvement of their productivity. The analysis is carried out based on the systematic integration of the knowledge management and innovation models published in recent years, as well as the results of the experiences that propose standards for knowledge management and innovation. The results found are that knowledge management favors and facilitates innovation in organizations and allows them to offer better products and services. These findings are with the application of a methodology and an instrument to measure the maturity of the organizational structure. The application of the evaluation instrument was applied in a single organization. However, it can be considered a case study that empirically contributes to the state of the art of knowledge management. Organizations need to become aware of the high value of the knowledge and experience in various fields of the people who participate in them. It has been observed that the participation of experts facilitates the achievement of organizational objectives and favors knowledge management and innovation. This study provided information and experiences of an administrative nature to a higher education institution, which allowed an improvement in strategic decision-making, the promotion of technological developments, and the improvement of internal processes that lead to greater effectiveness of the academic and research processes.
The Biocontrol Agent Pyemotes zhonghuajia Has the Highest Lethal Weight Ratio Compared with Its Prey and the Most Dramatic Body Weight Change during Pregnancy
Authors: Chen Yi-Chai , Tian Tai-An , Chen Yi-Hui , Yu Li-Chen , Hu Ji-Feng , Yu Xiao-Fei , Liu Jian-Feng , Yang Mao-Fa
Published: May 2021

Pyemotes spp. are small, toxic, ectoparasitic mites that suppress Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Lepidoptera plant pests. To explore their potential use as a biocontrol agent, we studied the reproductive development, paralytic process, time to lethality and mortality, and searching ability of Pyemotes zhonghuajia on different developmental stages of the oriental leafworm moth, Spodoptera litura. Pyemotes zhonghuajia gained 14,826 times its body weight during pregnancy. One single P. zhonghuajia female could rapidly kill one S. litura egg and first to third instar larvae, but not fourth to sixth instar larvae, prepupae, or pupae within 720 min. Pyemotes zhonghuajia could develop on eggs, first to sixth larvae, and pupae, but only produced offspring on the eggs and pupae. A single P. zhonghuajia female (an average weight of 23.81 ng) could paralyze and kill one S. litura third instar larvae (an average weight of 16.29 mg)—680,000 times its own weight. Mites significantly affected the hatch rate of S. litura eggs, which reduced with increasing mite densities on S. litura eggs. Releasing 50 or 100 P. zhonghuajia in a 2 cm searching range resulted in significantly higher mortality rates of S. litura first instar larvae within 48 h compared to second and third instar larvae in searching ranges of 4.5 and 7.5 cm within 24 h. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal that P. zhonghuajia undergoes the greatest changes in weight during pregnancy of any adult female animal and has the highest lethal weight ratio of any biocontrol agent.
Patent Foramen Ovale—A Not So Innocuous Septal Atrial Defect in Adults
Authors: Romano Veronica , Gallinoro Carlo Maria , Mottola Rosita , Serio Alessandro , Di Meglio Franca , Castaldo Clotilde , Sirico Felice , Nurzynska Daria
Published: May 2021

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common congenital atrial septal defect with an incidence of 15–35% in the adult population. The development of the interatrial septum is a process that begins in the fourth gestational week and is completed only after birth. During intrauterine life, the foramen ovale allows the passage of highly oxygenated blood from the right to the left atrium and into the systemic arteries, thus bypassing the pulmonary circulation. In 75% of the general population, the foramen ovale closes after birth, and only an oval depression, called fossa ovalis, remains on the right side of the interatrial septum. Patent foramen ovale can be associated with various clinically important conditions, including migraine and stroke, or decompression illness in divers. The aim of this review is to summarize the PFO developmental and anatomical features and to discuss the clinical risks associated with this atrial septal defect in adults.
Ablation of Atrioventricular Nodal Re-Entrant Tachycardia Combining Irrigated Flexible-Tip Catheters and Three-Dimensional Electroanatomic Mapping: Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Malagù Michele , Vitali Francesco , Marchini Federico , Fiorio Alessio , Sirugo Paolo , Mele Daniela , Brieda Alessandro , Balla Cristina , Bertini Matteo
Published: May 2021

Background: Transcatheter ablation is the standasrd treatment for atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT). However, different techniques are available. Data about the use of irrigated flexible-tip catheters and three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping (3D EAM) for AVNRT ablation are scant. The aim of this study was to evaluate in long-term follow-up efficacy and safety of a novel approach for AVNRT treatment. Methods: This is a cohort single arm study with long-term follow-up. Patients with AVNRT were treated with catheter ablation by means of irrigated flexible-tip catheters combined with 3D EAM. Results: One-hundred-and-fifty patients were enrolled and followed-up for a median of 38 months (minimum 12, maximum 74). Acute procedural success rate was 96.7% (145/150 patients). During follow-up, 11 patients had arrhythmia recurrences (7.3%). No patient developed atrioventricular conduction block with need for pacemaker implantation (0%). Fourteen patients died during follow-up (9.3%). Conclusions: Acute procedural success and long-term follow-up show that AVNRT could be safely and effectively treated with irrigated flexible-tip catheters and 3D EAM.
Clinical Implications of Neurological Comorbidities and Complications in ICU Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Park Jaeseok , Kwon Yong-Shik , Kim Hyun-Ah , Kwon Doo-Hyuk , Hwang Jihye , Jang Seong-Hwa , Park Hyungjong , Sohn Sung-Il , Choi Huimahn Alex , Hong Jeong-Ho
Published: May 2021

Clinical implications of neurological problems during intensive care unit (ICU) care for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients are unknown. This study aimed to describe the clinical implications of preexisting neurological comorbidities and new-onset neurological complications in ICU patients with COVID-19. ICU patients who were isolated and treated for COVID-19 between 19 February 2020 and 3 May 2020, from one tertiary hospital and one government-designated branch hospital were included. Clinical data including previous neurological disorders were extracted from electronic medical records. All neurological complications were evaluated by neurointensivists. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate independent factors in ICU mortality. The median age of 52 ICU patients with COVID-19 was 73 years. Nineteen (36.5%) patients had preexisting neurological comorbidities, and new-onset neurological complications occurred in 23 (44.2%) during ICU admission. Patients with preexisting neurological comorbidities required tracheostomy more frequently and more ventilator and ICU days than those without. Patients with new-onset neurological complications experienced more medical complications and had higher ICU severity score and ICU mortality rates. New-onset neurological complications remained an independent factor for ICU mortality. Many COVID-19 patients in the ICU have preexisting neurological comorbidities, making them at a high risk of new-onset neurological complications.
Enhanced Recovery after Renal Transplantation Decreases Recipients’ Urological Complications and Hospital Stay: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prionas Apostolos , Craddock Charles , Papalois Vassilios
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to compare enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) against traditional perioperative care for renal transplant recipients. Outcome measures included complications, length of stay (LOS), readmission rates, graft and patient survival up to one-year post-transplant. We initially screened Medline, Cochrane, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science databases. We identified 3029 records. From these, 114 full texts were scrutinized for inclusion. Finally, 10 studies were included in the meta-analysis corresponding to 2037 renal transplant recipients. ERAS resulted in lower incidence of urological complications (95CI: 0.276, 0.855) (I2 = 53.08%) compared to traditional perioperative practice. This referred to ureteric stenoses (95CI: 0.186–0.868) (I2 = 0%) and urinary tract infections (95CI: 0.230–0.978) (I2 = 71.55%). ERAS decreased recipients’ LOS (95CI: −2.876, −0.835) (I2 = 86.55%). Compared to standard practice, ERAS protocols did not increase unplanned readmissions (95CI:0.800, 1.680) (I2 = 0%). Up to one-year post-transplant, graft survival rates were similar across the ERAS and the control groups (95CI:0.420, 1.722) (I2 = 0%). There was also no difference in recipients’ one-year post-transplant survival (95CI:0.162, 3.586) (I2 = 0%). Our results suggest that ERAS protocols can be safely incorporated in the perioperative care of renal transplant recipients, decrease their urological complications and shorten their length of hospital stay without affecting unplanned readmission rates.
Validity of Lung Ultrasound: Is an Image Worth More Than a Thousand Sounds?
Authors: Ramos-Hernández Cristina , Botana-Rial Maribel , Núñez-Fernández Marta , Lojo-Rodríguez Irene , Mouronte-Roibas Cecilia , Salgado-Barreira Ángel , Ruano-Raviña Alberto , Fernández-Villar Alberto
Published: May 2021

Introduction: There is debate as to whether lung-ultrasound (LUS) can replace lung-auscultation (LA) in the assessment of respiratory diseases. Methodology: The diagnostic validity, safety, and reliability of LA and LUS were analyzed in patients admitted in a pulmonary ward due to decompensated obstructive airway diseases, decompensated interstitial diseases, and pulmonary infections, in a prospective study. Standard formulas were used to calculate the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. The interobserver agreement with respect to the LA and LUS findings was evaluated based on the Kappa coefficient (ᴋ). Results: A total of 115 patients were studied. LUS was more sensitive than the LA in evaluating pulmonary infections (93.59% vs. 77.02%; p = 0.001) and more specifically in the case of decompensated obstructive airway diseases (95.6% vs. 19.10%; p = 0.001). The diagnostic accuracy of LUS was also greater in the case of pulmonary infections (75.65% vs. 60.90%; p = 0.02). The sensitivity and specificity of the combination of LA and LUS was 95.95%, 50% in pulmonary infections, 76.19%, 100% in case of decompensated obstructive airway diseases, and (100%, 88.54%) in case of interstitial diseases. (ᴋ) was 0.71 for an A-pattern, 0.73 for pathological B-lines, 0.94 for condensations, 0.89 for pleural-effusion, 0.63 for wheezes, 0.38 for rhonchi, 0.68 for fine crackles, 0.18 for coarse crackles, and 0.29 for a normal LA. Conclusions: There is a greater interobserver agreement in the interpretation of LUS-findings compared to that of LA-noises, their combined use improves diagnostic performance in all diseases examined.
Chronic Critical Illness and PICS Nutritional Strategies
Authors: Rosenthal Martin D. , Vanzant Erin L. , Moore Frederick A.
Published: May 2021

The nutritional hallmark of chronic critical illness (CCI) after sepsis is persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome (PICS), which results in global resistance to the anabolic effect of nutritional supplements. This ultimately leaves these patients in a downward phenotypic spiral characterized by cachexia with profound weakness, decreased capacity for rehabilitation, and immunosuppression with the propensity for sepsis recidivism. The persistent catabolism is driven by a pathologic low-grade inflammation with the inability to return to homeostasis and by ongoing increased energy expenditure. Better critical care support systems and advances in technology have led to increased intensive care unit (ICU) survival, but CCI due to PICS with poor long-term outcomes has emerged as a frequent phenotype among ICU sepsis survivors. Unfortunately, therapies to mitigate or reverse PICS-CCI are limited, and recent evidence supports that these patients fail to respond to early ICU evidence-based nutrition protocols. A lack of randomized controlled trials has limited strong recommendations for nutrition adjuncts in these patients. However, based on experience in other conditions characterized by a similar phenotype, immunonutrients aimed at counteracting inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism may be important for improving outcomes in PICS-CCI patients. This manuscript intends to review several immunonutrients as adjunctive therapies in treating PICS-CCI.
Practical Advices for Treating Chronic Pain in the Time of COVID-19: A Narrative Review Focusing on Interventional Techniques
Authors: Lo Bianco Giuliano , Papa Alfonso , Schatman Michael E. , Tinnirello Andrea , Terranova Gaetano , Leoni Matteo Luigi Giuseppe , Shapiro Hannah , Mercadante Sebastiano
Published: May 2021

Background: Since the management of chronic pain has become even more challenging secondary to the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks, we developed an exhaustive narrative review of the scientific literature, providing practical advices regarding the management of chronic pain in patients with suspected, presumed, or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We focused particularly on interventional procedures, where physicians are in closer contact with patients. Methods: Narrative Review of the most relevant articles published between June and December of 2020 that focused on the treatment of chronic pain in COVID-19 patients. Results: Careful triage of patients is mandatory in order to avoid overcrowding of hospital spaces. Telemedicine could represent a promising tool to replace in-person visits and as a screening tool prior to admitting patients to hospitals. Opioid medications can affect the immune response, and therefore, care should be taken prior to initiating new treatments and increasing dosages. Epidural steroids should be avoided or limited to the lowest effective dose. Non urgent interventional procedures such as spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal pumps should be postponed. The use of personal protective equipment and disinfectants represent an important component of the strategy to prevent viral spread to operators and cross-infection between patients due to the SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks.
Physico-Mechanical Study of CMC/BFO/PoPD Nanocomposite Films Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNCMCC) for Effective Photocatalytic Removal of Methyl Orange
Authors: Nazri Nurul Hidayu , Kumar Yogesh , Ramlan Mohd Amirul , Mohammad Kassim Mohammad Haafiz , Hossain Md. Sohrab , Mohd Kaus Noor Haida
Published: May 2021

The present study was conducted to develop a nanocomposite film of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals isolated from microcrystalline cellulose (CNCMCC) in the presence of bismuth ferrite (BFO)/poly-o-phenylenediamine (PoPD). The physicochemical properties, the mechanical and thermal stability, and its photocatalytic activity towards the removal of methyl orange (MO) were determined. Results show that the integration of CNCMCC into the CMC matrix enhanced the mechanical strength of the film. The tensile strength (TS) of the nanocomposite film increased from 0.205 to 0.244 MPa, while elongation at break (EB) decreased from 201.44 to 168.78% in the presence of 20 wt.% of CNCMCC. The incorporation of CNCMCC in the CMC matrix substantially enhanced the nanocomposite’s thermal stability from 181.16 to 185.59 °C and decreased the degradation residue from 72.64 to 63.16%. The determination of the photocatalytic activity of the CMC/CNCMCC/BFO/PoPD composite film revealed the removal of methyl orange (MO) of 93.64% with high structural integrity after 3 h of treatment. Thus, the isolated CNCMCC-reinforced CMC/BFO/PoPD composite film can be used as a photocatalyst for the removal of organic pollutants from wastewater, including the methyl orange.
Physiological and Psychological Responses to Three Distinct Exercise Training Regimens Performed in an Outdoor Setting: Acute and Delayed Response
Authors: Benítez-Flores Stefano , Magallanes Carlos A. , Alberton Cristine Lima , Astorino Todd A.
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to compare the acute responses to three time-matched exercise regimens. Ten trained adults (age, maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), and body mass index (BMI) = 25.9 ± 5.6 yr, 50.9 ± 5.4 mL·kg−1·min−1, and 22.1 ± 1.8 kg·m−2) completed sprint interval training (SIT) requiring 14 × 5 s efforts with 35 s of recovery, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) consisting of 18 × 15 s efforts at ~90% of peak heart rate (HRpeak) with 15 s of recovery, and vigorous continuous training (CT) consisting of 8.75 min at ~85 %HRpeak, in randomized order. Heart rate, blood lactate concentration, rating of perceived exertion, affective valence, and enjoyment were monitored. Moreover, indices of neuromuscular function, autonomic balance, diet, mental stress, incidental physical activity (PA), and sleep were measured 24 h after each session to analyze the magnitude of recovery. Both HIIT and CT exhibited a greater %HRpeak and time ≥ 90 %HRpeak than SIT (p < 0.05). Blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion were higher in response to SIT and HIIT vs. CT (p < 0.05); however, there were no differences in enjoyment (p > 0.05). No differences were exhibited in any variable assessed along 24 h post-exercise between conditions (p > 0.05). These data suggest that HIIT and CT accumulate the longest duration at near maximal intensities, which is considered a key factor to enhance VO2max.
Short-Term Periodized Programming May Improve Strength, Power, Jump Kinetics, and Sprint Efficiency in Soccer
Authors: Ishida Ai , Travis S. Kyle , Stone Michael H.
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine if short-term periodized programming may improve strength, power, jump kinetics, and sprint efficiency in soccer. Seventeen players (19.6 ± 1.6 yrs; 73.8 ± 8.2 kg; 1.77 ± 0.6 m) were divided into two groups based on mean isometric midthigh pull peak force (IPF) (stronger and weaker) and squat jump (SJ) peak power (PP) (higher power and lower power). Eight weaker players were included in the lower power group, while six stronger players were included in the higher power group. Block periodization was adopted to design strength training consisting of 3-week strength endurance and 4-week maximum strength blocks. Performance data included SJ with polyvinyl chloride pipe (SJ0), 20 kgs bar (SJ20), and 40 kgs (SJ40) bar and 20 m sprint across three time points (baseline: TB; post-block 1: T1; post-block 2: T2). Stronger group showed significant increases from TB to T2 in SJ20 peak power (PP), net impulse, and allometrically-scaled PP (p = 0.005 to 0.01, ES = 0.32 to 0.49). Weaker group demonstrated moderate to large increases from TB to T2 in SJ20, allometrically-scaled peak force (PF), PP, and allometrically-scaled PP (p = <0.001 to 0.04, ES = 1.41 to 1.74). Lower power group showed significant increases from TB to T2 in SJ20 allometrically-scaled PF, net impulse, PP, and allometrically-scaled PP (p = <0.001 to 0.026, ES = 1.06 to 2.01). Weaker and less powerful soccer players can benefit from strength-focused training to improve loaded SJ kinetics associating with force production.
Estimation of Maneuverability of Fishing Vessel Considering Hull-Form Characteristics
Authors: Kim Su-Hyung , Lee Chun-Ki , Lee Sang-Min
Published: May 2021

Fishing vessels with a length (LBP) of less than 100 m are generally not required to comply with the mandatory IMO Ship Maneuverability Standards. Therefore, an analytical method using empirical formula is preferred rather than a model test, which consumes a lot of time and monetary resources in estimating the maneuverability at the design stage. However, most empirical formulas have been derived from the model test results of merchant ships, and in the process, estimation errors may occur when hull-form parameters (L/B or CbB/L) with high correlation are applied to fishing vessel hull form whose characteristics are different from those of merchant ships. Therefore, a modified empirical formula was derived from previous research by including major parameters of fishing vessel hull form in the Kijima 90 empirical formula. In this study, maneuverability of stern trawler hull form is estimated for validating a modified empirical formula. The study confirmed that including characteristic parameters of the fishing vessel hull form in the empirical formula developed for merchant ships could improve the accuracy of estimation.
Acoustic Pressure, Particle Motion, and Induced Ground Motion Signals from a Commercial Seismic Survey Array and Potential Implications for Environmental Monitoring
Authors: McCauley Robert D. , Meekan Mark G. , Parsons Miles J. G.
Published: May 2021

An experimental marine seismic source survey off the northwest Australian coast operated a 2600 cubic inch (41.6 l) airgun array, every 5.88 s, along six lines at a northern site and eight lines at a southern site. The airgun array was discharged 27,770 times with 128,313 pressure signals, 38,907 three-axis particle motion signals, and 17,832 ground motion signals recorded. Pressure and ground motion were accurately measured at horizontal ranges from 12 m. Particle motion signals saturated out to 1500 m horizontal range (50% of signals saturated at 230 and 590 m at the northern and southern sites, respectively). For unsaturated signals, sound exposure levels (SEL) correlated with measures of sound pressure level and water particle acceleration (r2= 0.88 to 0.95 at northern site and 0.97 at southern) and ground acceleration (r2= 0.60 and 0.87, northern and southern sites, respectively). The effective array source level was modelled at 247 dB re 1µPa m peak-to-peak, 231 dB re 1 µPa2 m mean-square, and 228 dB re 1 µPa2∙m2 s SEL at 15° below the horizontal. Propagation loss ranged from −29 to −30log10 (range) at the northern site and −29 to −38log10(range) at the southern site, for pressure measures. These high propagation losses are due to near-surface limestone in the seabed of the North West Shelf.