bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Peritoneal Purse-String Suture Prevents Symptomatic Lymphoceles in Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Harland Niklas , Alfarra Mohammed , Erne Eva , Maas Moritz , Amend Bastian , Bedke Jens , Stenzl Arnulf
Published: January 2023

Background: The retzius-sparing approach for robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has been increasingly adopted. Symptomatic lymphoceles are a widespread complication of RARP with pelvic lymph node dissection. Here, we present a new technique, the peritoneal purse-string suture (PPSS), that seems to reduce the rate of symptomatic lymphoceles following retzius-sparing RARP with extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND). Methods: The radical prostatectomy and bilateral lymphadenectomy are performed through three separate peritoneal openings. The PPSS uses a single suture in a way similar to a purse-string suture; the openings of both lymphadenectomy fields are widened, and the rectovesical opening from the prostatectomy is simultaneously closed. This report retrospectively evaluates the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of two consecutive patient cohorts undergoing RARP with ePLND by a single surgeon between May 2015 and June 2019, one cohort prior to introducing PPSS as control (n = 145) and the other after introducing PPSS (n = 91). Results: The two study groups were comparable on baseline characteristics, except ASA. There were no Clavien–Dindo grade IV-V complications, and comparable rates of grade I-III complications. The difference in postoperative lymphocele formation was 22% in PPSS versus 27% in the control group (p = 0.33). The rate of symptomatic lymphoceles was significantly lower in the PPSS group (3% vs. 10%, p = 0.047). Conclusion: The PPSS is a feasible procedure that reduces symptomatic lymphoceles in patients undergoing RARP with a retzius-sparing approach.
Gastrointestinal Ultrasound in Emergency Setting
Authors: Boccatonda Andrea , D’Ardes Damiano , Tallarico Viola , Vicari Susanna , Bartoli Elena , Vidili Gianpaolo , Guagnano Maria , Cocco Giulio , Cipollone Francesco , Schiavone Cosima , Accogli Esterita
Published: January 2023

Acute bowel diseases are responsible for more than one third of subjects who were referred to the emergency department for acute abdominal pain and gastrointestinal evaluation. Gastrointestinal ultrasound (GIUS) is often employed as the first imaging method, with a good diagnostic accuracy in the setting of acute abdomen, and it can be an optimal diagnostic strategy in young females due to the radiation exposure related to X-ray and computed tomography methods. The physician can examine the gastrointestinal system in the area with the greatest tenderness by ultrasound, thus obtaining more information and data on the pathology than the standard physical examination. In this comprehensive review, we have reported the most relevant indications and advantages to using ultrasound in the investigation of abdominal acute pain.
Potential Neuromodulation of the Cardio-Renal Syndrome
Authors: Zucker Irving H. , Xia Zhiqiu , Wang Han-Jun
Published: January 2023

The cardio-renal syndrome (CRS) type 2 is defined as a progressive loss of renal function following a primary insult to the myocardium that may be either acute or chronic but is accompanied by a decline in myocardial pump performance. The treatment of patients with CRS is difficult, and the disease often progresses to end-stage renal disease that is refractory to conventional therapy. While a good deal of information is known concerning renal injury in the CRS, less is understood about how reflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity affects this syndrome. In this review, we provide insight into the role of the renal nerves, both from the afferent or sensory side and from the efferent side, in mediating renal dysfunction in CRS. We discuss how interventions such as renal denervation and abrogation of systemic reflexes may be used to alleviate renal dysfunction in the setting of chronic heart failure. We specifically focus on a novel cardiac sensory reflex that is sensitized in heart failure and activates the sympathetic nervous system, especially outflow to the kidney. This so-called Cardiac Sympathetic Afferent Reflex (CSAR) can be ablated using the potent neurotoxin resinferitoxin due to the high expression of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptors. Following ablation of the CSAR, several markers of renal dysfunction are reversed in the post-myocardial infarction heart failure state. This review puts forth the novel idea of neuromodulation at the cardiac level in the treatment of CRS Type 2.
RDW as A Predictor for No-Reflow Phenomenon in DM Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Sun Ying , Ren Jian , Li Li , Wang Chunsong , Yao Hengchen
Published: January 2023

Background: No-reflow phenomenon (NRP) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients is not infrequent. The predictive value of red blood-cell distribution width (RDW) on NRP has not been explored. Methods: STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) were enrolled. Plasma samples were obtained at admission. Participants were divided into two groups according to RDW. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were performed to evaluate the relationship between RDW and NRP. Subgroup analysis was made between the diabetes mellitus (DM) group and the No-DM group. Results: The high RDW group had a higher NRP compared to the low group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, DM (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]:1.847; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.209–2.822; p = 0.005) and hemoglobin (AOR: 0.986; 95% CI: 0.973–0.999; p < 0.05), other than RDW, were independent predictors of NRP. RDW (AOR: 2.679; 95% CI: 1.542–4.655; p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of NRP in the DM group, but not in the No-DM group. In the DM group, area under the ROC curve value for RDW predicting NRP was 0.707 (77.3% sensitivity, 56.3% specificity (p < 0.001)). Conclusions: RDW is a predictor of NRP in DM patients with STEMI, which provides further assistance in clinicians’ decision making.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 Inhibited Apoptosis in Random Flap via the ERK1/2–Nrf2 Pathway to Improve Tissue Survival
Authors: Zhang Dupiao , Raza Mazhar Ali , Chen Jianpeng , Li Baolong , Liu Wenbin , Han Tao , Yan Hede , Jiang Liangfu
Published: January 2023

Background: The application of random pattern skin flaps is limited in plastic surgery reconstruction due to necrosis. Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) was reported to exert a protective effect against myocardial damage and cerebral ischemia injury, but the impact of FGF9 in random flap survival is still unclear. In this study, we used a mouse model of random flaps to verify that FGF9 can directly increase flap survival area and blood flow intensity by promoting angiogenesis. Materials and Methods: In total, 84 male C57BL/6 mice weighing between 22 and 25 g were randomly divided into three groups (n = 28 each group). After skin flap operation, one group served as a control, a treatment group received FGF9, and a treatment group received FGF9+U0126. All flap samples were incised on postoperative day 7. Results: Our results showed that flap survival was significantly increased in the FGF9 group compared with that in the control group. This protective function was restrained by U0126. The results of histopathology, laser Doppler, and fluorescent staining all showed significant increases in capillary count, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. FGF9 also significantly increased the expression of antioxidant stress proteins SOD1, eNOS, HO-1, vascular marker proteins CD31, VE cadherin, and pericyte marker protein PDGFRβ. Western blot showed that the phosphorylation degree of ERK1/2 increased after FGF9 treatment, and the expression of Nrf2, a downstream factor, was u-regulated. Western blot and immunofluorescence results of apoptosis-related proteins cleaved caspase-3, BAX, and Bcl2 showed that FGF9 inhibited apoptosis. ERK inhibitor U01926 reduced the beneficial effects of FGF9 on skin flap survival, including promoting angiogenesis, and showing antiapoptosis and antioxidative stress activities. Conclusions: Exogenous FGF9 stimulates angiogenesis of random flap and survival of tissue. the impact of FGF9 is closely linked to the prevention of oxidative stress mediated by ERK1/2-Nrf2. In the function of FGF9 in promoting effective angiogenesis, there may be a close interaction in the FGF9–FGFR–PDGFR–ERK–VE cadherin pathway. In particular, PDGFR and VE cadherin may interact.
Evolving Role of [18F]Flurocholine PET/CT in Assessing Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Can It Be Considered the First-Line Functional Imaging Approach?
Authors: Seyedinia Seyedeh Sara , Mirshahvalad Seyed Ali , Schweighofer-Zwink Gregor , Hehenwarter Lukas , Rendl Gundula , Pirich Christian , Beheshti Mohsen
Published: January 2023

The accurate detection of hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue (HFPT) is pivotal in the preoperative assessment of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). PET/CT using [18F]fluorocholine ([18F]FCH) showed superior diagnostic performance compared to conventional functional imaging modalities. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of [18F]FCH PET/CT as a first-line functional imaging approach in patients with clinically diagnosed PHPT. The imaging and clinical data of 321 PHPT patients, including 271 overt PHPT and 50 mild PHPT, who underwent [18F]FCH PET/CT as first-line imaging were analysed in this retrospective study. Histopathology was the reference standard. In case of no available histopathology evaluation (conservative management), imaging and clinical follow-ups were considered reference standards. In the overt group (n = 271), [18F]FCH PET/CT showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy of 0.99, 0.91, 1.00, 0.80, and 0.99, respectively. Regarding the correlation of the index lesions and initial laboratory data, all [18F]FCH PET/CT parameters (SUVs, SULs, and mSAD) were significantly correlated with the serum iPTH level. Additionally, SUVmax, SULpeak, and mSAD were significantly associated with the serum calcium level. In the mild group (n = 50), [18F]FCH PET/CT showed a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of 0.93, 0.75, 0.95, 0.67, and 0.90. In conclusion, [18F]FCH PET/CT revealed high diagnostic performance in the detection of HFPTs and the potential to be considered as a first-line imaging modality in the assessment of PHPT, including both overt and mild types. However, its cost–benefit concerning the clinical impact of early PHPT detection should be investigated in future studies.
The Differential Expression of Circular RNAs and the Role of circAFF1 in Lens Epithelial Cells of High-Myopic Cataract
Authors: Ma Shiyu , Zhu Xiangjia , Li Dan , Yang Fan , Meng Jiaqi , Jiang Yongxiang , Ma Jing , Lu Yi
Published: January 2023

High-myopic cataract (HMC) is a complex cataract with earlier onset and more rapid progress than age-related cataract (ARC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in many diseases. However, their involvement in HMC remain largely unexplored. To investigate the role of dysregulated circRNAs in HMC, lens epithelium samples from 24 HMC and 24 ARC patients were used for whole transcriptome sequencing. Compared with ARC, HMC had 3687 uniquely expressed circRNAs and 1163 significantly differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcRs) (|log2FC| > 1, p < 0.05). A putative circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was constructed based on correlation analysis. We validated the differential expression of 3 DEcRs by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using different sets of samples. We further investigated the role of circAFF1 in cultured lens epithelial cells (LECs) and found that the overexpression of circAFF1 promoted cell proliferation, migration and inhibited apoptosis. We also showed that circAFF1 upregulated Tropomyosin 1 (TPM1) expression by sponging miR-760, which was consistent with the network prediction. Collectively, our study suggested the involvement of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of HMC and provide a resource for further study on this topic.
Inhibition of the Activating Transcription Factor 6 Branch of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Ameliorates Brain Injury after Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest
Authors: Zhang You-Peng , Yang Qin , Li Yi-Ai , Yu Ming-Huan , He Guo-Wei , Zhu Yu-Xiang , Liu Zhi-Gang , Liu Xiao-Cheng
Published: January 2023

Neurological dysfunction is a common complication of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA). Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a role in neuronal ischemia-reperfusion injury; however, it is unknown whether it contributes to DHCA-induced brain injury. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of ER stress in a rat DHCA model and cell hypothermic oxygen–glucose deprivation reoxygenation (OGD/R) model. ER stress and apoptosis-related protein expression were identified using Western blot analysis. Cell counting assay-8 and flow cytometry were used to determine cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Brain injury was evaluated using modified neurological severity scores, whereas brain injury markers were detected through histological examinations and immunoassays. We observed significant ER stress molecule upregulation in the DHCA rat hippocampus and in hypothermic OGD/R PC-12 cells. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that ER stress or activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) inhibition alleviated rat DHCA-induced brain injury, increased cell viability, and decreased apoptosis accompanied by C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). ER stress is involved in DHCA-induced brain injury, and the inhibition of the ATF6 branch of ER stress may ameliorate this injury by inhibiting CHOP-mediated apoptosis. This study establishes a scientific foundation for identifying new therapeutic targets for perioperative brain protection in clinical DHCA.
The Localized Ionic Microenvironment in Bone Modelling/Remodelling: A Potential Guide for the Design of Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Mu Yuqing , Du Zhibin , Xiao Lan , Gao Wendong , Crawford Ross , Xiao Yin
Published: January 2023

Bone is capable of adjusting size, shape, and quality to maintain its strength, toughness, and stiffness and to meet different needs of the body through continuous remodeling. The balance of bone homeostasis is orchestrated by interactions among different types of cells (mainly osteoblasts and osteoclasts), extracellular matrix, the surrounding biological milieus, and waste products from cell metabolisms. Inorganic ions liberated into the localized microenvironment during bone matrix degradation not only form apatite crystals as components or enter blood circulation to meet other bodily needs but also alter cellular activities as molecular modulators. The osteoinductive potential of inorganic motifs of bone has been gradually understood since the last century. Still, few have considered the naturally generated ionic microenvironment’s biological roles in bone remodeling. It is believed that a better understanding of the naturally balanced ionic microenvironment during bone remodeling can facilitate future biomaterial design for bone tissue engineering in terms of the modulatory roles of the ionic environment in the regenerative process.
Synthetic Data Generation for Automatic Segmentation of X-ray Computed Tomography Reconstructions of Complex Microstructures
Authors: Tsamos Athanasios , Evsevleev Sergei , Fioresi Rita , Faglioni Francesco , Bruno Giovanni
Published: January 2023

The greatest challenge when using deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) for automatic segmentation of microstructural X-ray computed tomography (XCT) data is the acquisition of sufficient and relevant data to train the working network. Traditionally, these have been attained by manually annotating a few slices for 2D DCNNs. However, complex multiphase microstructures would presumably be better segmented with 3D networks. However, manual segmentation labeling for 3D problems is prohibitive. In this work, we introduce a method for generating synthetic XCT data for a challenging six-phase Al–Si alloy composite reinforced with ceramic fibers and particles. Moreover, we propose certain data augmentations (brightness, contrast, noise, and blur), a special in-house designed deep convolutional neural network (Triple UNet), and a multi-view forwarding strategy to promote generalized learning from synthetic data and therefore achieve successful segmentations. We obtain an overall Dice score of 0.77. Lastly, we prove the detrimental effects of artifacts in the XCT data on achieving accurate segmentations when synthetic data are employed for training the DCNNs. The methods presented in this work are applicable to other materials and imaging techniques as well. Successful segmentation coupled with neural networks trained with synthetic data will accelerate scientific output.
Introduction of a New Test Methodology for Determining the Delayed Cracking Susceptibility
Authors: Hopf Anton , Klug Moritz , Durmaz Kürşat , Goth Klaus , Jüttner Sven
Published: January 2023

A missing test methodology that allows for the determination of delayed cracking susceptibility of laser welds of high-strength sheet steel is presented. Unlike other cold crack testing methods, this test is based on a self-restraint testing of specimens welded from thin sheet materials without welding consumables and external loading. The potential test procedure with sample geometry, clamping device and documentation of the cracks is described. It is shown that the position of the weld on the specimen is a critical parameter and the susceptibility to cold cracking increases with increasing edge distance. The test methodology in combination with the most critical seam position is successfully used to rank two different steels regarding their susceptibility to delayed cracking. Further investigations are conducted evaluating the cold cracking susceptibility at different energy levels and lubricating conditions. It is proven that the lubrication has a significant influence on the susceptibility to cold cracking. Nevertheless, a narrow but safe process window is found.
A Landscape of the Genomic Structure of Cryptococcus neoformans in Colombian Isolates
Authors: Patiño Luz Helena , Muñoz Marina , Ramírez Angie Lorena , Vélez Nórida , Escandón Patricia , Parra-Giraldo Claudia-Marcela , Ramírez Juan David
Published: January 2023

Cryptococcus neoformans species complexes are recognized as environmental fungi responsible for lethal meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised individuals. Despite the vast knowledge about the epidemiology and genetic diversity of this fungus in different regions of the world, more studies are necessary to comprehend the genomic profiles across South America, including Colombia, considered to be the second country with the highest number of Cryptococcosis. Here, we sequenced and analyzed the genomic architecture of 29 Colombian C. neoformans isolates and evaluated the phylogenetic relationship of these strains with publicly available C. neoformans genomes. The phylogenomic analysis showed that 97% of the isolates belonged to the VNI molecular type and the presence of sub-lineages and sub-clades. We evidenced a karyotype without changes, a low number of genes with copy number variations, and a moderate number of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Additionally, a difference in the number of SNPs between the sub-lineages/sub-clades was observed; some were involved in crucial fungi biological processes. Our study demonstrated the intraspecific divergence of C. neoformans in Colombia. These findings provide evidence that Colombian C. neoformans isolates do not probably require significant structural changes as adaptation mechanisms to the host. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the whole genome sequence of Colombian C. neoformans isolates.
Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on the Growth and Root Cell Ultrastructure of Eucalyptus grandis under Cadmium Stress
Authors: Kuang Yuxuan , Li Xue , Wang Zhihao , Wang Xinyang , Wei Hongjian , Chen Hui , Hu Wentao , Tang Ming
Published: January 2023

Eucalyptus grandis (E. grandis) has been reported to form a symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which plays an important role in improving plant tolerance of heavy metal. However, the mechanism of how AMF intercept and transport cadmium (Cd) at the subcellular level in E. grandis still remains to be researched. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted to investigate the growth performance of E. grandis under Cd stress and Cd absorption resistance of AMF and explored the Cd localization in the root by using transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results showed that AMF colonization could enhance plant growth and photosynthetic efficiency of E. grandis and reduce the translocation factor of Cd under Cd stress. After being treated with 50, 150, 300, and 500 μM Cd, the translocation factor of Cd in E. grandis with AMF colonization decreased by 56.41%, 62.89%, 66.67%, and 42.79%, respectively. However, the mycorrhizal efficiency was significant only at low Cd concentrations (50, 150, and 300 μM). Under 500 μM Cd concentration condition, the colonization of AMF in roots decreased, and the alleviating effect of AMF was not significant. Ultrastructural observations showed that Cd is abundant in regular lumps and strips in the cross-section of E. grandis root cell. AMF protected plant cells by retaining Cd in the fungal structure. Our results suggested that AMF alleviated Cd toxicity by regulating plant physiology and altering the distribution of Cd in different cell sites.
Correction: Benucci et al. Predicting Loss of Efficacy after Non-Medical Switching: Correlation between Circulating TNF-α Levels and SB4 in Etanercept to SB4 Switchers and Naïve Patients with Rheumatic Disease. J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12, 1174
Authors: Benucci Maurizio , Damiani Arianna , Bandinelli Francesca , Russo Edda , Li Gobbi Francesca , Grossi Valentina , Amedei Amedeo , Infantino Maria , Manfredi Mariangela
Published: January 2023

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Short Implants versus Standard Implants and Sinus Floor Elevation in Atrophic Posterior Maxilla: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials with ≥5 Years’ Follow-Up
Authors: Mester Alexandru , Onisor Florin , Di Stasio Dario , Piciu Andra , Cosma Adriana-Maria , Bran Simion
Published: January 2023

Background and objectives: The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to assess the performance of short implants in comparison with standard implants and sinus floor elevation in atrophic posterior maxilla. Materials and methods: The protocol of the study was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022375320). An electronic search on three databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) was performed to find randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with ≥5 years’ follow-up, published until December 2022. Risk of bias (ROB) was calculated using Cochrane ROB. A meta-analysis was performed for primary (implant survival rate, ISR) and secondary outcomes (marginal bone loss, MBL; biological and prosthetic complications). Results: Of 1619 articles, 5 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The ISR showed a risk ratio (RR) of 0.97 [0.94, 1.00] (CI 95%), p = 0.07. The MBL indicated a WMD of −0.29 [−0.49, −0.09] (CI 95%), p = 0.005. Biological complications showed a RR of 0.46 [0.23, 0.91] (CI 95%), p = 0.03. Prosthetic complications showed a RR of 1.51 [0.64, 3.55] (CI 95%), p = 0.34. Conclusions: The available evidence suggests that short implants might be used as an alternative to standard implants and sinus floor elevation. After 5 years, in terms of ISR, standard implants and sinus floor elevation showed a higher survival rate comparted to short implants, although statistical significance was not achieved. Future RCTs with long-term follow-up are needed to draw a clear conclusion on the advantages of one method over another.
Personalized Sentinel Node Mapping in Endometrial Cancer by the Indocyanine Green Implementation as Single Tracer: A Case Control Study
Authors: Cristóbal Quevedo Ignacio , Cristóbal García Ignacio , Gracia Myriam , Garcia-Pineda Virginia , Alonso-Espias Maria , Siegrist Jaime , Diestro Maria Dolores , Hernández Alicia , Zapardiel Ignacio
Published: January 2023

The main objective was to analyze the rate of bilateral sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection in endometrial cancer using indocyanine green (ICG) as a unique tracer compared to Technetium99 + ICG. As secondary objectives, we analyzed the drainage pattern and factors that might affect the oncological outcomes. A case-control ambispective study was carried out on consecutive patients at our center. Data on the SLN biopsy with ICG collected prospectively were compared to retrospective data on the use of a double-tracer technique including Technetium99 + ICG. In total, 194 patients were enrolled and assigned to both groups, in which the group with both tracers (controls) included 107 (54.9%) patients and the ICG-alone group (cases) included 87 (45.1%) patients. The rate of bilateral drainage was significantly higher in the ICG group (98.9% vs. 89.7%; p = 0.013). The median number of nodes retrieved was higher in the control group (three vs. two nodes; p < 0.01). We did not find survival differences associated with the tracer used (p = 0.85). We showed significant differences in terms of disease-free survival regarding the SLN location (p < 0.01), and obturator fossa retrieved nodes showed better prognosis compared to external iliac. The use of ICG as a single tracer for SLN detection in endometrial cancer patients seemed to obtain higher rates of bilateral detection with similar oncological outcomes.
The Mutation Spectrum of Rare Variants in the Gene of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)-Binding Cassette Subfamily C Member 8 in Patients with a MODY Phenotype in Western Siberia
Authors: Ivanoshchuk Dinara , Shakhtshneider Elena , Mikhailova Svetlana , Ovsyannikova Alla , Rymar Oksana , Valeeva Emil , Orlov Pavel , Voevoda Mikhail
Published: January 2023

During differential diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, the greatest difficulties are encountered with young patients because various types of diabetes can manifest themselves in this age group (type 1, type 2, and monogenic types of diabetes mellitus, including maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY)). The MODY phenotype is associated with gene mutations leading to pancreatic-β-cell dysfunction. Using next-generation sequencing technology, targeted sequencing of coding regions and adjacent splicing sites of MODY-associated genes (HNF4A, GCK, HNF1A, PDX1, HNF1B, NEUROD1, KLF11, CEL, PAX4, INS, BLK, KCNJ11, ABCC8, and APPL1) was carried out in 285 probands. Previously reported missense variants c.970G>A (p.Val324Met) and c.1562G>A (p.Arg521Gln) in the ABCC8 gene were found once each in different probands. Variant c.1562G>A (p.Arg521Gln) in ABCC8 was detected in a compound heterozygous state with a pathogenic variant of the HNF1A gene in a diabetes patient and his mother. Novel frameshift mutation c.4609_4610insC (p.His1537ProfsTer22) in this gene was found in one patient. All these variants were detected in available family members of the patients and cosegregated with diabetes mellitus. Thus, next-generation sequencing of MODY-associated genes is an important step in the diagnosis of rare MODY subtypes.
HPV Molecular Genotyping as a Differential Diagnosis Tool in Cervical Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Montero-Macías Rosa , Coronado Pluvio J. , Robillard Nicolas , Veyer David , Villefranque Vincent , Le Frére-Belda Marie-Aude , Auberger Elisabeth , Bitolog Pauline , Stankovic Ivana , Bélec Laurent , Bats Anne-Sophie , Lécuru Fabrice , Péré Hélène
Published: January 2023

Background: Differentiating metastatic cervical cancer from another primary tumor can be difficult in patients with a history of cervical cancer and a distant lesion. The use of routine HPV molecular detection and genotyping tests could help in these cases. The objective of this study was to identify if an easy-to-use HPV molecular genotyping assay would allow differentiating between HPV tumor metastasis and a new independent primary non-HPV-induced tumor. Materials and Methods: Between 2010 and 2020, we identified patients with a primary cervical carcinoma who also had another secondary lesion. This identification included a clinical and histologic differential diagnosis of metastatic cervical cancer versus a new primary cancer or metastatic cancer from another site. We used a routine multiplex real-time PCR (rt-PCR) AnyplexTM II HPV28 (Seegene, Seoul, Republic of Korea) to detect the high-risk (HR)-HPV genome in the distant lesions in these patients. Results: Eight cases of cervical cancer with a new secondary lesion were identified. In seven, HR-HPV DNA was detected in the biopsy of the distant lesion, which confirmed the diagnosis of cervical cancer metastasis. In the remaining case, no HPV was detected in the secondary lung biopsy, confirming the diagnosis of new primary lung cancer. Conclusion: Our results pave the way for HPV molecular genotyping use in cases of newly diagnosed distant lesions in patients with a history of HPV cervical neoplasia by using a routine diagnosis process to complete the clinical and histologic differential diagnosis when confronted with ambiguous situations.
Trainer Interaction Can Improve Welfare Outcomes of Toy Enrichment for Isolated Animals: A Case Study
Authors: Jaakkola Kelly , Brignac Sarah , Erb Linda , Guarino Emily , Haddock Abigail , Rodriguez Armando
Published: January 2023

In cases where social animals must be temporarily housed alone, environmental enrichment is particularly important. Providing animals with manipulable objects (“toys”) is a common form of environmental enrichment, but its effectiveness can be limited by animal disinterest or habituation. The current study examined whether caregiver interaction could increase the effectiveness of object-based enrichment for a quarantined bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Behavioral observations were conducted after a training session, after a trainer toy play session, and between interactive sessions. The results showed that the dolphin floated in place less and played with toys more after interacting with a caregiver than he did at times further removed from caregiver interaction. He was also more likely to play with the same toys that the trainer had played with, showing effects of stimulus enhancement and/or social referencing. Although this study is, of necessity, based on a single animal of a single species, these findings suggest that interacting with a caregiver can enhance the efficacy of object-based environmental enrichment for isolated animals.
Quality Index Approach for Analysis of Urban Green Infrastructure in Himalayan Cities
Authors: Anees Mangalasseril Mohammad , Banzhaf Ellen , Wang Jingxia , Joshi Pawan Kumar
Published: January 2023

In fast urbanizing cities, fragmentation of urban green infrastructure (UGI) commonly arises due to lack of efficient planning to maintain the quantity and improve their quality. As ecological processes and landscape patterns are closely intertwined, it is a prerequisite to investigate landscape structure when aiming at better provision of ecosystem services. This study integrates remote sensing, geographic information system, combination of landscape metrics, and multi-variated statistics to delineate structural attributes influencing UGI Quality (UGIQ). We exemplify our methodology in three capital cities of Indian Himalayan states at administrative ward level. The UGIQ is derived by comparing landscape characters defined by nine metrics denoting area, shape, and aggregation attributes. By employing principal component analysis (PCA) and multi-collinearity diagnosis, a set of quality defining metrics are obtained for each city. Further, to gain insightful spatial basis for improving connectivity, Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) is used to visualize and classify patches into seven morphological classes. Landscape characterization highlights a pattern of low-quality wards having a limited number and area of UGI patches in urban centers, and high-quality wards with complex and aggregated patches towards fringes. PCA identifies the positive influence of area (LPI, AREA_MN) and shape (LSI, FRAC_AM, CONTIG) metrics and negative influence of patch distance (ENN_MN) and fragmentation (PD) on UGIQ in different combinations across the cities. Higher shares of morphological core and edge classes are recognized for overall UGIQ improvement. The results provide quantitative measures to develop integrated spatial planning strategies.
Characteristics, Roles and Applications of Proteinaceous Elicitors from Pathogens in Plant Immunity
Authors: Li Zhangqun , Liu Junnan , Ma Wenting , Li Xiaofang
Published: January 2023

In interactions between pathogens and plants, pathogens secrete many molecules that facilitate plant infection, and some of these compounds are recognized by plant pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which induce immune responses. Molecules in both pathogens and plants that trigger immune responses in plants are termed elicitors. On the basis of their chemical content, elicitors can be classified into carbohydrates, lipopeptides, proteinaceous compounds and other types. Although many studies have focused on the involvement of elicitors in plants, especially on pathophysiological changes induced by elicitors in plants and the mechanisms mediating these changes, there is a lack of up-to-date reviews on the characteristics and functions of proteinaceous elicitors. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of the up-to-date knowledge on several important families of pathogenic proteinaceous elicitors (i.e., harpins, necrosis- and ethylene-inducing peptide 1 (nep1)-like proteins (NLPs) and elicitins), focusing mainly on their structures, characteristics and effects on plants, specifically on their roles in plant immune responses. A solid understanding of elicitors may be helpful to decrease the use of agrochemicals in agriculture and gardening, generate more resistant germplasms and increase crop yields.
Effects of Obesity on Medial Tibiofemoral Cartilage Mechanics in Females—An Exploration Using Musculoskeletal Simulation and Probabilistic Cartilage Failure Modelling
Authors: Sinclair Jonathan , Lynch Holly , Chockalingam Nachiappan , Taylor Paul John
Published: January 2023

This study examined the effects of obesity on cartilage mechanics and longitudinal failure probability at the medial tibiofemoral compartment, using combined musculoskeletal simulation and probabilistic failure modelling approaches. The current investigation examined twenty obese females (BMI > 30.0 kg/m2) and 20 healthy weight (BMI < 25.0 kg/m2) females. Walking kinematics were obtained via an 8-camera optoelectric system, and a force plate was used to collect ground reaction forces. Musculoskeletal simulation and probabilistic failure modelling were utilized to explore medial tibiofemoral forces and cartilage probability. Comparisons between groups were undertaken using linear mixed-effects models. Net peak cartilage forces, stress and strain were significantly larger in the obese group (force = 2013.92 N, stress = 3.03 MPa & strain = 0.25), compared to health weight (force = 1493.21 N, stress 2.26 MPa & strain = 0.19). In addition, medial tibiofemoral cartilage failure probability was also significantly larger in the obese group (42.98%) compared to healthy weight (11.63%). The findings from the current investigation show that obesity has a profoundly negative influence on longitudinal medial knee cartilage health and strongly advocates for the implementation of effective weight management programs into long-term musculoskeletal management strategies.
Outstanding Antibacterial Activity of Hypericum rochelii—Comparison of the Antimicrobial Effects of Extracts and Fractions from Four Hypericum Species Growing in Bulgaria with a Focus on Prenylated Phloroglucinols
Authors: Ilieva Yana , Marinov Teodor , Trayanov Iliyan , Kaleva Mila , Zaharieva Maya Margaritova , Yocheva Lyubomira , Kokanova-Nedialkova Zlatina , Najdenski Hristo , Nedialkov Paraskev
Published: January 2023

Microbial infections are by no means a health problem from a past era due to the increasing antimicrobial resistance of infectious strains. Medicine is in constant need of new drugs and, recently, plant products have had a deserved renaissance and garnered scientific recognition. The aim of this work was to assess the antimicrobial activity of ten active ingredients from four Hypericum species growing in Bulgaria, as well as to obtain preliminary data on the phytochemical composition of the most promising samples. Extracts and fractions from H. rochelii Griseb. ex Schenk, H. hirsutum L., H. barbatum Jacq. and H. rumeliacum Boiss. obtained with conventional or supercritical CO2 extraction were tested on a panel of pathogenic microorganisms using broth microdilution, agar plates, dehydrogenase activity and biofilm assays. The panel of samples showed from weak to extraordinary antibacterial effects. Three of them (from H. rochelii and H. hirsutum) had minimum inhibitory concentrations as low as 0.625–78 mg/L and minimum bactericidal concentrations of 19.5–625 mg/L against Staphylococcus aureus and other Gram-positive bacteria. These values placed these samples among the best antibacterial extracts from the Hypericum genus. Some of the agents also demonstrated very high antibiofilm activity against methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry revealed the three most potent samples as rich sources of biologically active phloroglucinols. They were shown to be good drug or nutraceutical candidates, presumably without some of the side effects of conventional antibiotics.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 Nasal Rapid Antigen Self-Test: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Karlafti Eleni , Tsavdaris Dimitrios , Kotzakioulafi Evangelia , Kaiafa Georgia , Savopoulos Christos , Netta Smaro , Michalopoulos Antonios , Paramythiotis Daniel
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a disease that quickly spread into a pandemic. As such, management of the COVID-19 pandemic is deemed necessary, and it can be achieved by using reliable diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2. The gold standard for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 is a molecular detection test using the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique (rt-PCR), which is characterized by various disadvantages in contrast with the self-taken nasal rapid antigen tests that produce results faster, have lower costs and do not require specialized personnel. Therefore, the usefulness of self-taken rapid antigen tests is indisputable in disease management, facilitating both the health system and the examinees. Our systematic review aims to access the diagnostic accuracy of the self-taken nasal rapid antigen tests. Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. All the studies included in this systematic review were found after searching the two databases, Scopus and PubΜed. All but original articles were excluded from this systematic review, while all the studies concerning self-taken rapid antigen tests with a nasal sample and using rt-PCR as a reference test were included. Meta-analysis results and plots were obtained using RevMan software and the MetaDTA website. Results: All 22 studies included in this meta-analysis demonstrated a specificity of self-taken rapid antigen tests greater than 98%, which exceeds the minimum required yield for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, according to the WHO. Notwithstanding, the sensitivity varies (from 40% to 98.7%), which makes them in some cases unsuitable for the diagnosis of positive cases. In the majority of the studies, the minimum required performance set by the WHO was achieved, which is 80% compared with rt-PCR tests. The pooled sensitivity of self-taken nasal rapid antigen tests was calculated as 91.1% and the pooled specificity was 99.5%. Conclusions: In conclusion, self-taken nasal rapid antigen tests have many advantages over rt-PCR tests, such as those related to the rapid reading of the results and their low cost. They also have considerable specificity and some self-taken rapid antigen test kits also have remarkable sensitivity. Consequently, self-taken rapid antigen tests have a wide range of utility but are not able to completely replace rt-PCR tests.
Review of the State-of-the-Art Application of the Quantitative Structure Tribo-Ability Relationship Model of Lubricants in China
Authors: Gao Xinlei , Shi Miaomiao , Wang Tingting , Wu Li , Chen Hao
Published: January 2023

In recent years, lubricant research has developed from empirical to theoretical, from descriptive to rational, from qualitative to quantitative, and from macroscopic to microscopic studies. This review presents the new concept of the quantitative structure tribo-ability relationship (QSTR) derived from the basic principles of quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) theory and reviews the latest advances in research on basic problems of the QSTR of lubricants. Specifically, it highlights a series of recent studies conducted by Chinese scholars and future prospects related to these works. It is noted that the study of lubricants involves many related issues, such that there may be omissions in this review. Additionally, the research topics of the quantitative tribo-ability relationship of lubricants covered in this review are mainly mentioned to introduce various modeling methods, and there may be many similar works that are not covered in this review. Despite these limitations, it is hoped that the described QSTR method will become a useful tool and serve as a reference for tribology research groups in the future.
Mechanistic Model with Empirical Pitting Onset Approach for Detailed and Efficient Virtual Analysis of Atmospheric Bimetallic Corrosion
Authors: Zavalis Tommy G. , Ström Mats , Persson Dan , Wendel Erik , Ahlström Johan , Törne Karin Beaussant , Taxén Claes , Rendahl Bo , Voltaire Joakim , Eriksson Katarina , Thierry Dominique , Tidblad Johan
Published: January 2023

A mechanistic model of atmospheric bimetallic corrosion with a simplified empirical approach to the onset of localized corrosion attacks is presented. The model was built for a typical bimetallic sample containing aluminum alloy 1050 and stainless steel 316L sheets. A strategy was developed that allowed the model to be calibrated against the measured galvanic current, geometrical corrosion attack properties, and corrosion products. The pitting-onset simplification sets all pits to be formed at a position near the nobler metal and treated all pits as being of the same shape and size. The position was based on the location of the highest pitting events and the pit attributes on an average of the deepest pits. For 5 h exposure at controlled RH (85%, 91%, and 97%) and salt load (86 μg NaCl/cm2), the model was shown to be promising: both for analysis of local bimetallic corrosion chemistry, such as pH and corrosion products, and for efficient assessment of pitting damage by computing a single largest pit depth. Parametric studies indicated that the pitting-onset approximation deviated the most at the beginning of exposure and when RH was below 91%.
Selective Recovery of Gold from Electronic Waste by New Efficient Type of Sorbent
Authors: Wójcik Grzegorz , Górska-Parat Magdalena , Hubicki Zbigniew , Zinkowska Karolina
Published: January 2023

Modular connectors are applied by computer users, and they can be metallic secondary sources containing metals such as gold and copper. Because gold is a micro-component, the solution obtained after the pin digestion contains a low concentration of gold(III) ions, and efficient and selective sorbent should be used for gold(III) ion recovery. The selective removal of small amounts of gold(III) from 0.001–6 M hydrochloric acid solutions using pure and solvent-impregnated macroporous polystyrene crosslinked with divinylbenzene sorbents (Purolite MN 202 and Cyanex 272) is presented. Gold(III) ions were recovered effectively from the chloride solution after the digestion of the modular connector RJ 45 (8P8C) using Purolite MN 202 after the impregnation process. The dependence of the recovery percentage (R%) of gold(III) on the contact time was determined. The highest value of gold(III) ion sorption capacity (259.45 mg·g−1) was obtained in 0.001 M HCl for Purolite MN202 after the Cyanex 272 impregnation. The results can be applied to gold recovery from e-waste. The presented method of gold recovery does not generate nitrogen oxides and does not require the use of cyanides.
Formation and Characterization of the Recast Layer Formed on Inconel 718 during Wire Electro Discharge Machining
Authors: Alkahlan Bandar , Tabbakh Thamer , Kurdi Abdulaziz , Pramanik Alokesh , Basak Animesh K.
Published: January 2023

The present work investigates the formation and microstructural and micro-mechanical characterization of the recast layer that formed on Inconel 718 alloy in the course of the wire electro-discharge machining (WEDM). The as-machined surface contains globules, shallow cracks, and re-deposition of molten materials, together with the elements from the decomposition of wire electrode and electrolyte, which does not exceed beyond the surface of the recast layer. Under presently investigated machining parameters, the recast layer was about 6.2 ± 2.1 µm thick. There was no presence of a heat-affected zone (HAZ), as otherwise indicated for other hard-to-cut materials. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) investigations show that the microstructure of the recast layer is similar to that of bulk alloy. Micro-mechanical characterizations of the recast layer were investigated via in-situ micro-pillar compression on the micro-pillars fabricated on the recast layer. The strength of the superficial layer (1151.6 ± 51.1 MPa) was about 2.2 times higher than that of the base material (523.2 ± 22.1 MPa), as revealed by the in-situ micro-pillar compression.
A Parametric Study of Optimum Road Modular Hinged Frames by Hybrid Metaheuristics
Authors: Ruiz-Vélez Andrés , Alcalá Julián , Yepes Víctor
Published: January 2023

This paper addresses a study of cost-optimal road modular hinged frames. The performance of three hybrid metaheuristics is assessed through a fractional factorial design of experiments. The results allow for selecting and calibrating the hybrid simulated annealing to solve the combinatorial optimization problem. By varying the horizontal span from 8 to 16 meters and the earth cover from 1 to 5 meters, 25 different structural configurations are studied. The calibrated methodology is applied to obtain nine different frames with optimal costs for each configuration. The study of the economic, environmental and geometrical characteristics of the 225 optimum structures allows for the development of a regression analysis. With R2 correlation coefficients close to the unit, the expressions form a valuable tool for calculating the final cost, associated emissions, embodied energy and particular geometric characteristics. The optimum structures present slender and densely reinforced designs. In addition, some structures show considerable reductions in the shear reinforcement, something solved by localized increases in longitudinal reinforcement.