bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Intersection of Workplace and Environmental Exposure on Health in Latinx Farm Working Communities in Rural Inland Southern California
Authors: Cheney Ann Marie , Barrera Tatiana , Rodriguez Katheryn , Jaramillo López Ana María
Published: October 2022

Workplace and environmental exposures pose health risks for racial/ethnic minorities in rural agricultural communities, placing them at a disadvantage in accessing needed health care. Over three fourths (76%) of the 2.4 million farmworkers in the United States are immigrants, mostly from Mexico. However, little is known of the community health concerns and barriers to care of Latinx farmworkers in inland southern California. This qualitative study used a community-based participatory research approach, conducting nine in-home meetings to obtain meaningful community input on health concerns and barriers to access healthcare services among rural residents of the Eastern Coachella Valley, who are also located near the desert-bound Salton Sea of inland southern California. All interviews were audio-recorded and analyzed via listening to the audio recordings and summarizing data in templates and matrices. Participants discussed health concerns related to agricultural labor, including heat-related illness, musculoskeletal ailments and injuries, skin disorders, respiratory illness, and trauma. Participants raised concerns about environmental exposures related to agriculture and the nearby Salton Sea, a highly saline lakebed, and proposed solutions to improve the health of their communities. The findings from this study suggest farmworkers are aware of the health risks posed by living and working in rural farmlands but lack resources and information to act upon and advocate for improved public health.
Development of a Hallmark Pathway-Related Gene Signature Associated with Immune Response for Lower Grade Gliomas
Authors: Lai Guichuan , Zhong Xiaoni , Liu Hui , Deng Jielian , Li Kangjie , Xie Biao
Published: October 2022

Although some biomarkers have been used to predict prognosis of lower-grade gliomas (LGGs), a pathway-related signature associated with immune response has not been developed. A key signaling pathway was determined according to the lowest adjusted p value among 50 hallmark pathways. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and stepwise multivariate Cox analyses were performed to construct a pathway-related gene signature. Somatic mutation, drug sensitivity and prediction of immunotherapy analyses were conducted to reveal the value of this signature in targeted therapies. In this study, an allograft rejection (AR) pathway was considered as a crucial signaling pathway, and we constructed an AR-related five-gene signature, which can independently predict the prognosis of LGGs. High-AR LGG patients had higher tumor mutation burden (TMB), Immunophenscore (IPS), IMmuno-PREdictive Score (IMPRES), T cell-inflamed gene expression profile (GEP) score and MHC I association immunoscore (MIAS) than low-AR patients. Most importantly, our signature can be validated in four immunotherapy cohorts. Furthermore, IC50 values of the six classic chemotherapeutic drugs were significantly elevated in the low-AR group compared with the high-AR group. This signature might be regarded as an underlying biomarker in predicting prognosis for LGGs, possibly providing more therapeutic strategies for future clinical research.
The Benefit of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter Inhibition in Heart Failure: The Role of the Kidney
Authors: Gronda Edoardo , Vanoli Emilio , Iacoviello Massimo , Caldarola Pasquale , Gabrielli Domenico , Tavazzi Luigi
Published: October 2022

In the essential homeostatic role of kidney, two intrarenal mechanisms are prominent: the glomerulotubular balance driving the process of Na+ and water reabsorption in the proximal tubule, and the tubuloglomerular feedback which senses the Na+ concentration in the filtrate by the juxtaglomerular apparatus to provide negative feedback on the glomerular filtration rate. In essence, the two mechanisms regulate renal oxygen consumption. The renal hyperfiltration driven by increased glomerular filtration pressure and by glucose diuresis can affect renal O2 consumption that unleashes detrimental sympathetic activation. The sodium-glucose co-transporters inhibitors (SGLTi) can rebalance the reabsorption of Na+ coupled with glucose and can restore renal O2 demand, diminishing neuroendocrine activation. Large randomized controlled studies performed in diabetic subjects, in heart failure, and in populations with chronic kidney disease with and without diabetes, concordantly address effective action on heart failure exacerbations and renal adverse outcomes.
Interaction of MRPL9 and GGCT Promotes Cell Proliferation and Migration by Activating the MAPK/ERK Pathway in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zhang Hui-Min , Li Zi-Yi , Dai Zhou-Tong , Wang Jun , Li Le-Wei , Zong Qi-Bei , Li Jia-Peng , Zhang Tong-Cun , Liao Xing-Hua
Published: October 2022

Thyroid cancer remains the most common endocrine malignancy worldwide, and its incidence has steadily increased over the past four years. Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC) is the most common differentiated thyroid cancer, accounting for 80–85% of all thyroid cancers. Mitochondrial proteins (MRPs) are an important part of the structural and functional integrity of the mitochondrial ribosomal complex. It has been reported that MRPL9 is highly expressed in liver cancer and promotes cell proliferation and migration, but it has not been reported in PTC. In the present study we found that MRPL9 was highly expressed in PTC tissues and cell lines, and lentivirus-mediated overexpression of MRPL9 promoted the proliferation and migration ability of PTC cells, whereas knockdown of MRPL9 had the opposite effect. The interaction between MRPL9 and GGCT (γ-glutamylcyclotransferase) was found by immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation experiments (Co-IP). In addition, GGCT is highly expressed in PTC tissues and cell lines, and knockdown of GGCT/MRPL9 in vivo inhibited the growth of subcutaneous xenografts in nude mice and inhibited the formation of lung metastases. Mechanistically, we found that knockdown of GGCT/MRPL9 inhibited the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. In conclusion, our study found that the interaction of GGCT and MRPL9 modulates the MAPK/ERK pathway, affecting the proliferation and migration of PTC cells. Therefore, GGCT/MRPL9 may serve as a potential biomarker for PTC monitoring and PTC treatment.
Gut Microbiota and Therapy in Metastatic Melanoma: Focus on MAPK Pathway Inhibition
Authors: Guardamagna Mora , Berciano-Guerrero Miguel-Angel , Villaescusa-González Beatriz , Perez-Ruiz Elisabeth , Oliver Javier , Lavado-Valenzuela Rocío , Rueda-Dominguez Antonio , Barragán Isabel , Queipo-Ortuño María Isabel
Published: October 2022

Gut microbiome (GM) and its either pro-tumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic role is intriguing and constitutes an evolving landscape in translational oncology. It has been suggested that these microorganisms may be involved in carcinogenesis, cancer treatment response and resistance, as well as predisposition to adverse effects. In melanoma patients, one of the most immunogenic cancers, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and MAPK-targeted therapy—BRAF/MEK inhibitors—have revolutionized prognosis, and the study of the microbiome as a modulating factor is thus appealing. Although BRAF/MEK inhibitors constitute one of the main backbones of treatment in melanoma, little is known about their impact on GM and how this might correlate with immune re-induction. On the contrary, ICI and their relationship to GM has become an interesting field of research due to the already-known impact of immunotherapy in modulating the immune system. Immune reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment has been established as one of the main targets of microbiome, since it can induce immunosuppressive phenotypes, promote inflammatory responses or conduct anti-tumor responses. As a result, ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the role of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), as well as the impact of using dietary supplements, antibiotics and probiotics in the prediction of response to therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of GM’s link to cancer, its relationship with the immune system and how this may impact response to treatments in melanoma patients. We also discuss insights about novel therapeutic approaches including FMT, changes in diet and use of probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotics. Finally, we hypothesize on the possible pathways through which GM may impact anti-tumor efficacy in melanoma patients treated with targeted therapy, an appealing subject of which little is known.
A Single Oral Vitamin D3 Bolus Reduces Inflammatory Markers in Healthy Saudi Males
Authors: AlGhamdi Shareefa A. , Enaibsi Nusaibah N. , Alsufiani Hadeil M. , Alshaibi Huda F. , Khoja Sawsan O. , Carlberg Carsten
Published: October 2022

Vitamin D deficiency has increased in the general population and is a public health issue. Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating the immune system, e.g., by modulating the production of inflammatory cytokines. In most countries, the recommended maximal daily dose of vitamin D3 is 4000 IU (100 µg) per day. In this study, we investigated whether a single vitamin D3 bolus can reduce the levels of the inflammatory markers interleukin (IL) 6, IL8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) within one month. Fifty healthy Saudi males were recruited from the local community in Jeddah city and were orally supplemented with a single dose of 80,000 IU vitamin D3. Serum samples were collected at time points 0, 1 and 30 days, and serum levels of IL6, IL8 and TNF, parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), triglycerides, cholesterol, calcium (Ca2+) and phosphate (PO4−) were determined. On average, the vitamin D3 bolus resulted in a significant increase in vitamin D status as well as in a significant decrease in the levels of inflammatory cytokines even one month after supplementation without changing serum Ca2+, PO4− or lipid levels. In conclusion, single high-dose vitamin D3 supplementation is safe for reducing inflammation markers and may lead to an update of current recommendations for vitamin D intake, in order to prevent critical health problems.
Synovial Extracellular Vesicles: Structure and Role in Synovial Fluid Tribological Performances
Authors: Ben-Trad Layth , Matei Constantin Ionut , Sava Mirela Maria , Filali Samira , Duclos Marie-Eve , Berthier Yves , Guichardant Michel , Bernoud-Hubac Nathalie , Maniti Ofelia , Landoulsi Ahmed , Blanchin Marie-Genevieve , Miossec Pierre , Granjon Thierry , Trunfio-Sfarghiu Ana-Maria
Published: October 2022

The quality of the lubricant between cartilaginous joint surfaces impacts the joint’s mechanistic properties. In this study, we define the biochemical, ultrastructural, and tribological signatures of synovial fluids (SF) from patients with degenerative (osteoarthritis-OA) or inflammatory (rheumatoid arthritis-RA) joint pathologies in comparison with SF from healthy subjects. Phospholipid (PL) concentration in SF increased in pathological contexts, but the proportion PL relative to the overall lipids decreased. Subtle changes in PL chain composition were attributed to the inflammatory state. Transmission electron microscopy showed the occurrence of large multilamellar synovial extracellular vesicles (EV) filled with glycoprotein gel in healthy subjects. Synovial extracellular vesicle structure was altered in SF from OA and RA patients. RA samples systematically showed lower viscosity than healthy samples under a hydrodynamic lubricating regimen whereas OA samples showed higher viscosity. In turn, under a boundary regimen, cartilage surfaces in both pathological situations showed high wear and friction coefficients. Thus, we found a difference in the biochemical, tribological, and ultrastructural properties of synovial fluid in healthy people and patients with osteoarthritis and arthritis of the joints, and that large, multilamellar vesicles are essential for good boundary lubrication by ensuring a ball-bearing effect and limiting the destruction of lipid layers at the cartilage surface.
The WRKY Transcription Factor OsWRKY54 Is Involved in Salt Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Huang Jingjing , Liu Fuhang , Chao Dong , Xin Boning , Liu Kui , Cao Shuling , Chen Xingxiang , Peng Liyun , Zhang Baolei , Fu Shan , Xia Jixing
Published: October 2022

Salt stress is a critical limiting factor for rice growth and production. Although numerous salt-tolerant genes have been identified, the mechanism underlying salt stress tolerance in rice remains unclear. This study reports the need for an uncharacterized WRKY transcription factor OsWRKY54 for rice salt-tolerance. Salt stress resulted in a rapid induction of OsWRKY54 expression in roots. Immunostaining analysis showed that it was mainly expressed in the stele. The loss of OsWRKY54 resulted in greater Na accumulation in shoots and enhanced sensitivity of rice plants to salt stress. The real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) and transcriptome analysis revealed that OsWRKY54 regulated the expression of some essential genes related to salt tolerance, such as OsNHX4 and OsHKT1;5. Furthermore, OsWRKY54 was found to regulate OsHKT1;5 expression by directly binding to the W-box motif in its promoter. Thus, these results indicated that OsWRKY54 was a critical regulatory factor in salt tolerance in rice.
Calcium-Bound S100P Protein Is a Promiscuous Binding Partner of the Four-Helical Cytokines
Authors: Kazakov Alexey S. , Deryusheva Evgenia I. , Permyakova Maria E. , Sokolov Andrey S. , Rastrygina Victoria A. , Uversky Vladimir N. , Permyakov Eugene A. , Permyakov Sergei E.
Published: October 2022

S100 proteins are multifunctional calcium-binding proteins of vertebrates that act intracellularly, extracellularly, or both, and are engaged in the progression of many socially significant diseases. Their extracellular action is typically mediated by the recognition of specific receptor proteins. Recent studies indicate the ability of some S100 proteins to affect cytokine signaling through direct interaction with cytokines. S100P was shown to be the S100 protein most actively involved in interactions with some four-helical cytokines. To assess the selectivity of the S100P protein binding to four-helical cytokines, we have probed the interaction of Ca2+-bound recombinant human S100P with a panel of 32 four-helical human cytokines covering all structural families of this fold, using surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. A total of 22 cytokines from all families of four-helical cytokines are S100P binders with the equilibrium dissociation constants, Kd, ranging from 1 nM to 3 µM (below the Kd value for the S100P complex with the V domain of its conventional receptor, receptor for advanced glycation end products, RAGE). Molecular docking and mutagenesis studies revealed the presence in the S100P molecule of a cytokine-binding site, which overlaps with the RAGE-binding site. Since S100 binding to four-helical cytokines inhibits their signaling in some cases, the revealed ability of the S100P protein to interact with ca. 71% of the four-helical cytokines indicates that S100P may serve as a poorly selective inhibitor of their action.
IDO1 Modulates the Sensitivity of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cells to Cisplatin through ROS/p53-Dependent Apoptosis
Authors: Wang Houmei , Luo Yuanyuan , Ran Rui , Li Xinya , Ling Hongjian , Wen Fang , Yu Tinghe
Published: October 2022

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is a heme-containing dioxygenase that may play a part in chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. However, its role in cisplatin (DDP) resistance is unclear. Here, the expression level of IDO1 in tumors in platinum-resistant (n = 22) and -sensitive (n = 46) ovarian cancer patients was determined, and then how IDO1 modulated DDP resistance was explored in vitro and in vivo. The IDO1 expression level in platinum-resistant patients was higher than that in -sensitive patients, and a higher IDO1 level was correlated with poor prognosis in type II cancer patients. Up-regulating IDO1 decreased DDP-induced apoptosis in SKOV3 cells via inhibiting the ROS/p53 cell-death pathway, thereby attenuating cytotoxicity of DDP. Silencing IDO1 enhanced p53-dependent apoptosis by increasing ROS accumulation, thereby enhancing DDP against SKOV3 cells. Down-knocking IDO1 augmented the action of DDP in vivo. These data demonstrated that silencing IDO1 enhanced the efficacy of DDP by intensifying p53-dependent apoptosis, and that targeting IDO1 can be a strategy to modulate DDP-based chemotherapy for epithelial ovarian cancer.
Bioactive Phytochemicals from Salix pseudolasiogyne Twigs: Anti-Adipogenic Effect of 2′-O-Acetylsalicortin in 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Kim Hee Jung , Jang Yoon Seo , Ha Ji Won , Ra Moon-Jin , Jung Sang-Mi , Yu Jeong-Nam , Kim Kyunga , Kim Ki Hyun , Um Sung Hee
Published: October 2022

Salix pseudolasiogyne (Salicaceae) is a willow tree and has been used as a medicinal herb in Korea to treat pain and fever. As a part of an ongoing study to identify bioactive natural products, potential anti-adipogenic compounds were investigated using the ethanol (EtOH) extract of S. pseudolasiogyne twigs. Phytochemical investigation of the EtOH extracts using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) led to the separation of two compounds, oregonin (1) and 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2). The structures of the isolates were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and LC/MS analysis. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report identifying oregonin (1) in twigs of S. pseudolasiogyne. Here, we found that the isolated compounds, oregonin (1) and 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), showed anti-adipogenic effects during 3T3-L1 cell differentiation. Notably, 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), at a concentration of 50 µM, significantly suppressed lipid accumulation. Moreover, the mRNA and protein levels of lipogenic and adipogenic transcription factors were reduced in 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2)-treated 3T3-L1 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), isolated from S. pseudolasiogyne twigs, has the potential to be applied as a therapeutic agent to effectively control adipocyte differentiation, a critical stage in the progression of obesity.
Targeting the Crosstalk of Immune Response and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Phenotype Switch for Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation
Authors: Rai Vikrant , Singh Harbinder , Agrawal Devendra K.
Published: October 2022

Plaque formation, thrombosis, and embolism are the underlying causes of acute cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke while early thrombosis and stenosis are common pathologies for the maturation failure of arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Chronic inflammation is a common underlying pathogenesis mediated by innate and adaptive immune response involving infiltration of immune cells and secretion of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Impaired immune cell infiltration and change in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype play a crucial role in the underlying pathophysiology. However, the change in the phenotype of VSMCs in a microenvironment of immune cell infiltration and increased secretion of cytokines have not been investigated. Since change in VSMC phenotype regulates vessel remodeling after intimal injury, in this study, we investigated the effect of macrophages and pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, on the change in VSMC phenotype under in vitro conditions. We also investigated the expression of the markers of VSMC phenotypes in arteries with atherosclerotic plaques and VSMCs isolated from control arteries. We found that the inhibition of cytokine downstream signaling may mitigate the effect of cytokines on the change in VSMCs phenotype. The results of this study support that regulating or targeting immune cell infiltration and function might be a therapeutic strategy to mitigate the effects of chronic inflammation to attenuate plaque formation, early thrombosis, and stenosis, and thus enhance AVF maturation.
Anti-c-MET Fab-Grb2-Gab1 Fusion Protein-Mediated Interference of c-MET Signaling Pathway Induces Methuosis in Tumor Cells
Authors: Dou Xiaoqian , Xu Qinzhi , Dong Bo , Xu Guili , Qian Niliang , Yang Cuima , Li Hongjie , Chen Liting , Gao Xin , Song Haifeng
Published: October 2022

Bio-macromolecules have potential applications in cancer treatment due to their high selectivity and efficiency in hitting therapeutic targets. However, poor cell membrane permeability has limited their broad-spectrum application in cancer treatment. The current study developed highly internalizable anti-c-MET antibody Fab fusion proteins with intracellular epitope peptide chimera to achieve the dual intervention from the extracellular to intracellular targets in tumor therapy. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the fusion proteins could interfere with the disease-associated intracellular signaling pathways and inhibit the uncontrolled proliferation of tumor cells. Importantly, investigation of the underlying mechanism revealed that these protein chimeras could induce vacuolation in treated cells, thus interfering with the normal extension and arrangement of microtubules as well as the mitosis, leading to the induction of methuosis-mediated cell death. Furthermore, in vivo tumor models indicated that certain doses of fusion proteins could inhibit the A549 xenograft tumors in NOD SCID mice. This study thus provides new ideas for the intracellular delivery of bio-macromolecules and the dual intervention against tumor cell signaling pathways.
Desmin Knock-Out Cardiomyopathy: A Heart on the Verge of Metabolic Crisis
Authors: Elsnicova Barbara , Hornikova Daniela , Tibenska Veronika , Kolar David , Tlapakova Tereza , Schmid Benjamin , Mallek Markus , Eggers Britta , Schlötzer-Schrehardt Ursula , Peeva Viktoriya , Berwanger Carolin , Eberhard Bettina , Durmuş Hacer , Schultheis Dorothea , Holtzhausen Christian , Schork Karin , Marcus Katrin , Jordan Jens , Lücke Thomas , van der Ven Peter F. M. , Schröder Rolf , Clemen Christoph S. , Zurmanova Jitka M.
Published: October 2022

Desmin mutations cause familial and sporadic cardiomyopathies. In addition to perturbing the contractile apparatus, both desmin deficiency and mutated desmin negatively impact mitochondria. Impaired myocardial metabolism secondary to mitochondrial defects could conceivably exacerbate cardiac contractile dysfunction. We performed metabolic myocardial phenotyping in left ventricular cardiac muscle tissue in desmin knock-out mice. Our analyses revealed decreased mitochondrial number, ultrastructural mitochondrial defects, and impaired mitochondria-related metabolic pathways including fatty acid transport, activation, and catabolism. Glucose transporter 1 and hexokinase-1 expression and hexokinase activity were increased. While mitochondrial creatine kinase expression was reduced, fetal creatine kinase expression was increased. Proteomic analysis revealed reduced expression of proteins involved in electron transport mainly of complexes I and II, oxidative phosphorylation, citrate cycle, beta-oxidation including auxiliary pathways, amino acid catabolism, and redox reactions and oxidative stress. Thus, desmin deficiency elicits a secondary cardiac mitochondriopathy with severely impaired oxidative phosphorylation and fatty and amino acid metabolism. Increased glucose utilization and fetal creatine kinase upregulation likely portray attempts to maintain myocardial energy supply. It may be prudent to avoid medications worsening mitochondrial function and other metabolic stressors. Therapeutic interventions for mitochondriopathies might also improve the metabolic condition in desmin deficient hearts.
Simultaneous HPLC Determination of Clindamycin Phosphate, Tretinoin, and Preservatives in Gel Dosage Form Using a Novel Stability-Indicating Method
Authors: Sarfraz Sadaf , Hussain Shahid , Javed Mohsin , Raza Ali , Iqbal Shahid , Alrbyawi Hamad , Aljazzar Samar O. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Somaily Hamoud H. , Pashameah Rami Adel , Alzahrani Eman , Farouk Abd-ElAziem
Published: October 2022

The most well-known, effective medicines for acne therapy are clindamycin phosphate and tretinoin. For the first time, we have developed and validated a reversed-phase HPLC stability-indicating technique for the detection of clindamycin phosphate (CLP), tretinoin (TRN), and two preservatives, methylparaben (MP) and imidazolidinyl urea (IU), simultaneously in this work. Most of the chromatographic conditions in the present study were optimized to achieve better separation. The best separation results were obtained using gradient elution on a C-18 (250 × 4.6 mm), 5 µm column, with a mobile phase consisting of solution A (1 mL/L ortho-phosphoric acid in water) and solution B (methanol), at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, with UV detection at wavelengths of 200 nm and 353 nm. Standard parameters such as system suitability, precision, accuracy, specificity, robustness, linearity, range, detection limit, quantification limit, and reagent stability were used to validate the developed technique. According to the standards of the International Council for Harmonization, all of the experimental parameters were found to be within allowable bounds (ICH). The simultaneous concentrations of clindamycin phosphate, tretinoin, methylparaben, and imidazolidinyl urea in pharmaceutical formulations were successfully determined using the suggested approach. The proposed RP-HPLC method detected no interfering peaks in the chromatogram. We may conclude from the data that the new RP-HPLC method can be utilized in pharmaceutical laboratories to simultaneously assess clindamycin phosphate, tretinoin, and two preservatives, methylparaben and imidazolidinyl urea, for both qualitative and quantitative analyses.
Estimating Flooding at River Spree Floodplain Using HEC-RAS Simulation
Authors: Yazdan Munshi Md Shafwat , Ahad Md Tanvir , Kumar Raaghul , Mehedi Md Abdullah Al
Published: October 2022

River renaturation can be an effective management method for restoring a floodplain’s natural capacity and minimizing the effects during high flow periods. A 1D-2D Hydrologic Engineering Center–River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) model, in which the flood plain was considered as 2D and the main channel as 1D, was used to simulate flooding in the restored reach of the Spree River, Germany. When computing in this model, finite volume and finite difference approximations using the Preissmann approach are used for the 1D and 2D models, respectively. To comprehend the sensitivity of the parameters and model, several scenarios were simulated using different time steps and grid sizes. Additionally, dikes, dredging, and changes to the vegetation pattern were used to simulate flood mitigation measures. The model predicted that flooding would occur mostly in the downstream portion of the channel in the majority of the scenarios without mitigation measures, whereas with mitigation measures, flooding in the floodplain would be greatly reduced. By preserving the natural balance on the channel’s floodplain, the restored area needs to be kept in good condition. Therefore, mitigating measures that balance the area’s economic and environmental aspects must be considered in light of the potential for floods.
Erector Spinae Plane Block Decreases Chronic Postoperative Pain Severity in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Wiech Marcin , Żurek Sławomir , Kurowicki Arkadiusz , Horeczy Beata , Czuczwar Mirosław , Piwowarczyk Paweł , Widenka Kazimierz , Borys Michał
Published: October 2022

Up to 56% of patients develop chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). CPSP can affect patients’ moods and decrease daily activities. The primary aim of this study was to investigate CPSP severity in patients following off-pump (OP) CABG using the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI). This was a prospective cohort study conducted in a cardiac surgery department of a teaching hospital. Patients undergoing OP-CABG were enrolled in an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) group (n = 27) or a control (CON) group (n = 24). Before the induction of general anesthesia, ESPB was performed on both sides under ultrasound guidance using 0.375% ropivacaine. The secondary outcomes included cumulative oxycodone consumption, acute pain intensity, mechanical ventilation time, hospital length of stay, and postoperative complications. CPSP intensity was lower in the ESPB group than in the CON group 1, 3, and 6 months post-surgery (p < 0.001). Significant between-group differences were also observed in other outcomes, including postoperative pain severity, opioid consumption, mechanical ventilation time, and hospital length of stay, in favor of the ESPB group. Preemptive ESPB appears to decrease the risk of CPSP development in patients undergoing OP-CABG. Reduced acute pain severity and shorter mechanical ventilation times and hospital stays should improve patients’ satisfaction and reduce perioperative complications.
Screening for Liver Steatosis and Fibrosis in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Using Vibration Controlled Transient Elastography with Controlled Attenuation Parameter
Authors: Trifan Anca , Stafie Remus , Rotaru Adrian , Stratina Ermina , Zenovia Sebastian , Nastasa Robert , Huiban Laura , Cuciureanu Tudor , Muzica Cristina , Chiriac Stefan , Girleanu Irina , Singeap Ana-Maria , Sfarti Catalin , Cojocariu Camelia , Petrea Oana , Stanciu Carol
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are frequently associated with extraintestinal manifestations, hepatic injury being of concern in these patients. Current literature reports an increased prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis in subjects with IBD and the pathophysiology is yet to be completely understood. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with IBD, as well as to determine the factors that connect these two disorders. Methods: From September 2021 to June 2022, 82 consecutive IBD patients were enrolled from a tertiary care center hospital in Iasi. Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) was used to assess the presence of NAFLD, with a cut-off score for CAP of 248 dB/m. Significant liver fibrosis was considered at a cut-off for liver stiffness measurements (LSM) of 7.2 kPa. Results: In total, 82 IBD patients (54.8% men, mean age of 49 ± 13 years) were included, 38 (46.3%) of them being diagnosed with NAFLD, with a mean CAP score of 286 ± 35.4 vs. 203 ± 29.7 in patients with IBD only. Age (β = 0.357, p = 0.021), body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.185, p = 0.048), disease duration (β = 0.297, p = 0.041), C—reactive protein (β = 0.321, p = 0.013), fasting plasma glucose (β = 0.269, p = 0.038), and triglycerides (β = 0.273, p = 0.023) were strongly associated with the presence of liver steatosis. The multivariate analysis showed that older age, BMI, and disease duration were strongly associated with significant liver fibrosis in our group. Conclusions: NAFLD is a multifaced pathology with growing prevalence among IBD patients. Additional studies are needed to completely understand this problem and to create a solid evidence-based framework for more effective preventative and intervention strategies.
Aerosol Jet Printing and Interconnection Technologies on Additive Manufactured Substrates
Authors: Werum Kai , Mueller Ernst , Keck Juergen , Jaeger Jonas , Horter Tim , Glaeser Kerstin , Buschkamp Sascha , Barth Maximilian , Eberhardt Wolfgang , Zimmermann André
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, digital printing technologies such as inkjet and aerosol jet printing are gaining more importance since they have proven to be suitable for the assembly of complex microsystems. This also applies to medical technology applications like hearing aids where patient-specific solutions are required. However, assembly is more challenging than with conventional printed circuit boards in terms of material compatibility between substrate, interconnect material and printed ink. This paper describes how aerosol jet printing of nano metal inks and subsequent assembly processes are utilized to connect electrical components on 3D substrates fabricated by Digital Light Processing (DLP). Conventional assembly technologies such as soldering and conductive adhesive bonding were investigated and characterized. For this purpose, curing methods and substrate pretreatments for different inks were optimized. Furthermore, the usage of electroless plating on printed metal tracks for improved solderability was investigated. Finally, a 3D ear mold substrate was used to build up a technology demonstrator by means of conductive adhesives.
Numerical Study of Flat Plate Impact on Water Using a Compressible CIP–IBM–Based Model
Authors: Sun Hongyue , Ding Weiye , Zhao Xizeng , Sun Zhaochen
Published: October 2022

Due to the entrapment of compressible air, the process of a flat plate impact on water is complicated, which cannot be reproduced using incompressible simulations. To investigate such a slamming process, an accuracy compressible fluid–structure interaction numerical model has been proposed. The solution of this model is based on the constrained interpolation profile (CIP) method to solve the Navier–Stokes equations for the computation of fluid, and an implicit immersed boundary method (IBM) is used to calculate the fluid–structure interaction. Firstly, the present (CIP–IBM–based) model is validated against the problem of the flow past a stationary cylinder. Then it is implemented to simulate the problem of a rigid flat plate impact on water. The predicated impact pressure is compared with reference experiments and other simulations. The CIP–IBM–based model shows a better performance in dealing with sub-atmospheric pressure and reloading. From the numerical view, it is shown that the oscillation of the slamming pressure is significantly affected by the compression and expansion of the entrapped air cushion, and under the influence of the air cushion, the slamming pressure distribution along the bottom is not constant, which also varies greatly with time.
Prognostic Nutritional Index and Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients Undergoing Invasive Coronary Angiography: A Clinical Retrospective Study
Authors: Hu Xiang , Sang Kanru , Chen Chen , Lian Liyou , Wang Kaijing , Zhang Yaozhang , Wang Xuedong , Zhou Qi , Deng Huihui , Yang Bo
Published: October 2022

We aimed to examine whether prognostic nutritional index (PNI) could serve as an auxiliary predictor for major cardiovascular events (MCEs) in patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography (ICA). A total of 485 participants were enrolled, divided into low-PNI (≥47.40) and high-PNI (<47.40) groups. ICA determined the stenotic vessels of coronary artery disease. The primary outcome was incidental MCEs, a composite of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or rehospitalization of in-stent restenosis. There were 47 (9.69%) MCEs during the 3.78-years follow-up. The cumulative incidence of MCEs was significantly higher in the low-PNI patients compared with the high-PNI patients (17.07% vs. 7.18%, p = 0.001). Malnutrition risk (low PNI) was significantly and independently associated with a higher risk of MCEs (hazard ratios: 2.593, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.418–4.742). Combined use of the number of stenotic vessels with malnutrition risk showed a higher capacity to predict the MCEs than the presence of stenotic vessels alone (areas under the receiver operator characteristic curve: 0.696 [95% CI, 0.618–0.775] vs. 0.550 [95% CI, 0.466–0.633], p = 0.013). In conclusion, lower PNI levels may predict a higher risk of cardiovascular events in patients undergoing ICA, which supports the necessity of the risk assessment of nutrition status and guide the clinical treatment on strengthening nutritional support before ICA is performed, as well as nutritional intervention after ICA.
Machine Learning in Predicting Tooth Loss: A Systematic Review and Risk of Bias Assessment
Authors: Hasuike Akira , Watanabe Taito , Wakuda Shin , Kogure Keisuke , Yanagiya Ryo , Byrd Kevin M. , Sato Shuichi
Published: October 2022

Predicting tooth loss is a persistent clinical challenge in the 21st century. While an emerging field in dentistry, computational solutions that employ machine learning are promising for enhancing clinical outcomes, including the chairside prognostication of tooth loss. We aimed to evaluate the risk of bias in prognostic prediction models of tooth loss that use machine learning. To do this, literature was searched in two electronic databases (MEDLINE via PubMed; Google Scholar) for studies that reported the accuracy or area under the curve (AUC) of prediction models. AUC measures the entire two-dimensional area underneath the entire receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. AUC provides an aggregate measure of performance across all possible classification thresholds. Although both development and validation were included in this review, studies that did not assess the accuracy or validation of boosting models (AdaBoosting, Gradient-boosting decision tree, XGBoost, LightGBM, CatBoost) were excluded. Five studies met criteria for inclusion and revealed high accuracy; however, models displayed a high risk of bias. Importantly, patient-level assessments combined with socioeconomic predictors performed better than clinical predictors alone. While there are current limitations, machine-learning-assisted models for tooth loss may enhance prognostication accuracy in combination with clinical and patient metadata in the future.
The Impact of Digitalization on Performance Indicators of Russian Commercial Banks in 2021
Authors: Potapova Ekaterina A. , Iskoskov Maxim O. , Mukhanova Natalia V.
Published: October 2022

One of the main trends in the development of the financial sector around the world is digitalization. The purpose of this study is to analyze the interdependence between the level of digitalization and the key performance indicators of commercial banks, as well as the prospects for further development of digital technologies and their implementation in the activities of commercial banks. Based on the analysis of statistical data, it was confirmed that the digitalization of the Russian banking sector has significant potential. A correlation analysis of the data of 100 Russian commercial banks for 2021, grouped by assets, was performed. The presence of the influence of the level of digitalization on the individuals’ transactions and on the net commission income was confirmed. Hypotheses about the existence of a close relationship between the level of digitalization and the volume of transactions with legal entities, as well as profitability, have not been confirmed. According to the results of the study, it was noted that digitalization currently has the greatest impact on large Russian banks. It was concluded that currently, for the largest and big banks, a high level of digital maturity is a competitive advantage. This research contributes to the development of the theory of modern banking. The results obtained will be useful for researchers of the impact of digitalization on various aspects of banks’ activities, for banks, and for public authorities.
Underwater Wireless Sensor Network Performance Analysis Using Diverse Routing Protocols
Authors: Sathish Kaveripaka , Ravikumar Chinthaginjala Venkata , Rajesh Anbazhagan , Pau Giovanni
Published: October 2022

The planet is the most water-rich place because the oceans cover more than 75% of its land area. Because of the unique activities that occur in the depths, we know very little about oceans. Underwater wireless sensors are tools that can continuously transmit data to one of the source sensors while monitoring and recording their surroundings’ physical and environmental parameters. An Underwater Wireless Sensor Network (UWSN) is the name given to the network created by collecting these underwater wireless sensors. This particular technology has a random path loss model due to the time-varying nature of channel parameters. Data transmission between underwater wireless sensor nodes requires a careful selection of routing protocols. By changing the number of nodes in the model and the maximum speed of each node, performance parameters, such as average transmission delay, average jitter, percentage of utilization, and power used in transmit and receive modes, are explored. This paper focuses on UWSN performance analysis, comparing various routing protocols. A network path using the source-tree adaptive routing-least overhead routing approach (STAR-LORA) Protocol exhibits 85.3% lower jitter than conventional routing protocols. Interestingly, the fisheye routing protocol achieves a 91.4% higher utilization percentage than its counterparts. The results obtained using the QualNet 7.1 simulator suggest the suitability of routing protocols in UWSN.
Forest Landscape Restoration Legislation and Policy: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Mansuy Nicolas , Hwang Hyejin , Gupta Ritikaa , Mooney Christa , Kishchuk Barbara , Higgs Eric
Published: October 2022

Restoring degraded ecosystems is an urgent policy priority to regain ecological integrity, advance sustainable land use management, and mitigate climate change. This study examined current legislation and policies supporting forest landscape restoration (FLR) in Canada to assess its capacity to advance restoration planning and efforts. First, a literature review was performed to assess the policy dimension of FLR globally and across Canada. Then, a Canada-wide policy scan using national databases was conducted. While published research on ecological restoration has increased exponentially in Canada and globally since the early 1990s, our results showed that the policy dimensions of FLR remain largely under documented in the scientific literature, despite their key role in implementing effective restoration measures on the ground. Our analyses have identified over 200 policy instruments and show that Canada has developed science-based FLR policies and best practices driven by five main types of land use and extraction activities: (1) mining and oil and gas activities; (2) sustainable forest management; (3) environmental impact assessment; (4) protected areas and parks; and (5) protection and conservation of species at risk. Moreover, FLR policies have been recently added to the national climate change mitigation agenda as part of the nature-based solutions and the net-zero emission strategy. Although a pioneer in restoration, we argue that Canada can take a more targeted and proactive approach in advancing its restoration agenda in order to cope with a changing climate and increased societal demands for ecosystem services and Indigenous rights. Considering the multifunctional values of the landscape, the science–policy interface is critical to transform policy aspirations into realizable and quantifiable targets in conjunction with other land-use objectives and values.
Analyzing Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Cultivated Land Fragmentation and Their Influencing Factors in a Rapidly Developing Region: A Case Study in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Wang Dongjie , Yang Hao , Hu Yueming , Zhu A-Xing , Mao Xiaoyun
Published: October 2022

Cultivated land fragmentation (CLF) is a key obstacle to agricultural development and has a strong relationship with regional food security and global sustainable development. However, few studies have analyzed the spatio-temporal distribution pattern and evolution characteristics of CLF and the complex interactions among their influencing factors in rapidly developing regions. In this study, first, the GlobeLand30 datasets were used to obtain characteristic parameters of cultivated land in counties in Guangdong Province in 2000, 2010, and 2020. Then, the linear weighted comprehensive evaluation model based on the principal component analysis (PCA) was used to measure the extent of CLF. Finally, the exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) was used to analyze the spatio-temporal distribution pattern and evolution characteristics of CLF, and geodetector (GD) and random forest (RF) models were used to explore the factors influencing the spatial difference in CLF. The results showed that the spatial differences in the distribution of cultivated land resources in Guangdong Province are relatively large and the extent of agglomeration is generally low. The extent of CLF on the county scale is mainly medium and higher. The overall spatial distribution shows an increasing trend from the south to the north and from the west to the east, and the spatial distribution pattern with agglomeration and randomness remains relatively stable. From 2000 to 2020, the overall CLF continued to intensify and the evolution of CLF on the county scale mainly increased. The spatial difference in CLF is the result of that based on the natural environment and influenced by factors such as social, economic, and agricultural development. The interaction between influencing factors is very strong, dominated by nonlinear enhancement. The results are of great significance for promoting the intensive and efficient utilization of cultivated land resources and sustainable regional development.
Examining the Spatial Variations of Land Use Change and Its Impact Factors in a Coastal Area in Vietnam
Authors: Liang Yutian , Zeng Jiaqi , Li Shangqian
Published: October 2022

Controlling land use change in coastal areas is one of the world’s sustainable development goals and a great challenge. Existing research includes in-depth studies of land use change in relatively developed regions, but research on economically less developed but fast-growing regions is lacking. Since the reform and opening up in Vietnam, the influences of globalization have prompted the economy of the coastal area to develop rapidly, making it one of the less developed but rapidly developing regions where human activities and global changes vigorously interact. Therefore, taking the coastal area of Vietnam as the study area, we used the land use change index and random forest model to analyze the spatial variations of land use change and its impact factors. The research shows that: (1) land use shows a trend of continuous and rapid increase in construction land, with the proportion of construction land increasing from 2.72% in 2000 to 4.40% in 2020. However, natural landscapes, such as forests and grasslands, are decreasing. (2) Land use also shows obvious spatial variation characteristics, which are mainly manifested in the differences in change rate, development intensity, and distribution characteristics. Among them, the region with the largest rate of change was the Central Coastal Area. The region with the highest development intensity is the Mekong River Delta. (3) The main factors affecting land use change are foreign direct investment (FDI), the industrialization index, and population. Based on that, we analyzed the mechanism influencing the above factors from the perspectives of urbanization and population growth, and industrialization and park construction, as well as globalization and FDI, which can explain well the relationship between the impact factors and the spatial variation. This study can provide a valuable decision-making reference for formulating reasonable regional land development policies and is a good example of land use research for other rapidly developing areas.