bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of pelvic floor disorders on quality of life in women
Authors: Peinado Molina Rocío Adriana , Hernández Martínez Antonio , Martínez Vázquez Sergio , Martínez Galiano Juan Miguel
Published: October 2023

Objective

To determine whether the different pelvic floor disorders are associated with changes in perceived quality of life (QoL), globally and in its sub-dimensions.

Methods

An observational study was conducted with women in Spain between 2021 and 2022. Information was collected using a self-developed questionnaire on sociodemographic data, employment, history and health status, lifestyle and habits, obstetric history, and health problems. The SF-12 questionnaire was used to assess quality of life. The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) was used to assess the presence and impact of pelvic floor problems, and includes the POPDI-6 subscales for prolapse, CRADI- 8 for colorectal symptoms, and UDI-6 for urinary symptoms. Crude (MD) and adjusted mean differences (aMD) were estimated with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Thousand four hundred and forty six women participated in the study with a mean age of 44.27 (SD = 14.68). A statistical association was observed between all the pelvic floor disorders and QoL, overall and in all its dimensions (p <0.001), in the bivariable analysis. The lowest scores were observed in the emotional component. After adjusting for confounding factors, the pelvic floor disorders in general (aMD −0.21, 95% CI: −0.23 to −0.20), the impact of uterine prolapse symptoms (aMD −0.20, 95% CI: −0.27 to −0.12), the colorectal-anal symptoms (aMD −0.15, 95% CI: −0.22 to −0.09), and urinary symptoms (aMD −0.07, 95% CI: −0.13 to −0.03) was negatively associated on the score on the SF-12 questionnaire (p <0.05).

Conclusions

Women who have a pelvic floor dysfunction, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, colorectal-anal symptoms, or urinary symptoms, have a worse perceived quality of life in all dimensions. Prolapse symptoms have the biggest impact, and the emotional component of QoL is the most affected sub-domains.
Evapotranspiration and groundwater inputs control the timing of diel cycling of stream drying during low-flow periods
Authors: Warix Sara R. , Godsey Sarah E. , Flerchinger Gerald , Havens Scott , Lohse Kathleen A. , Bottenberg H. Carrie , Chu Xiaosheng , Hale Rebecca L. , Seyfried Mark
Published: October 2023

Geologic, geomorphic, and climatic factors have been hypothesized to influence where streams dry, but hydrologists struggle to explain the temporal drivers of drying. Few hydrologists have isolated the role that vegetation plays in controlling the timing and location of stream drying in headwater streams. We present a distributed, fine-scale water balance through the seasonal recession and onset of stream drying by combining spatiotemporal observations and modeling of flow presence/absence, evapotranspiration, and groundwater inputs. Surface flow presence/absence was collected at fine spatial (~80 m) and temporal (15-min) scales at 25 locations in a headwater stream in southwestern Idaho, USA. Evapotranspiration losses were modeled at the same locations using the Simultaneous Heat and Water (SHAW) model. Groundwater inputs were estimated at four of the locations using a mixing model approach. In addition, we compared high-frequency, fine-resolution riparian normalized vegetation difference index (NDVI) with stream flow status. We found that the stream wetted and dried on a daily basis before seasonally drying, and daily drying occurred when evapotranspiration outputs exceeded groundwater inputs, typically during the hours of peak evapotranspiration. Riparian NDVI decreased when the stream dried, with a ~2-week lag between stream drying and response. Stream diel drying cycles reflect the groundwater and evapotranspiration balance, and riparian NDVI may improve stream drying predictions for groundwater-supported headwater streams.
Acute influence of resistance exercise on basketball shooting mechanics and accuracy
Authors: Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Cabarkapa Damjana V. , Ciccone Anthony B. , Whiting Shay M. , Philipp Nicolas M. , Eserhaut Drake A. , Fry Andrew C.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the present study was to examine the acute impact of resistance exercise on basketball shooting mechanics and accuracy. Ten resistance-trained recreationally active men with previous basketball playing experience (x̄ ± SD; height = 182.6 ± 9.7 cm; body mass = 79.2 ± 13.9 kg; age = 25.6 ± 5.5 years) performed control, upper-body, and lower-body training sessions in randomized order followed by 5 sets of stationary free-throw (4.57 m), two-point (5.18 m) and three-point (6.75 m) basketball shooting drills in 30 min time increments. Each testing session was separated 3–7 days apart. Kinematic variables during both the preparatory and release phases of the shooting motion were derived from a high-definition camera recording at 120 fps positioned 10 m away perpendicular to the participant's shooting plane of motion. Restricted maximum likelihood linear mixed-effects model analysis revealed that a combination of all fixed effects could account for <1% of the total variance in each dependent variable pertaining to basketball shooting mechanics. A 9.9–11.8% decrease in two-point and three-point shooting accuracy was observed immediately following an upper-body training session. However, the observed performance suppression disappeared 30 min post-exercise completion. Overall, the findings suggest that performing upper-body or lower-body resistance training prior to on-court practice sessions has no impact on free-throw, two-point, and three-point biomechanical parameters examined in the present study and a minor acute impact on mid-range and long-range shooting accuracy in male basketball players.
Ursolic acid: biological functions and application in animal husbandry
Authors: Liu Guanhui , Qin Peng , Cheng Xinying , Wu Lifei , Wang Ruoning , Gao Wei
Published: October 2023

Ursolic acid (UA) is a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid with 30 carbon atoms. UA has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antimicrobial, hepato-protective, anticancer, and other biological activities. Most studies on the biological functions of UA have been performed in mammalian cell (in vitro) and rodent (in vivo) models. UA is used in animal husbandry as an anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent, as well as for enhancing the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Although UA has been shown to have significant in vitro bacteriostatic effects, it is rarely used in animal nutrition. The use of UA as a substitute for oral antibiotics or as a novel feed additive in animal husbandry should be considered. This review summarizes the available data on the biological functions of UA and its applications in animal husbandry.
Comparative Study on Coordinated Control of Path Tracking and Vehicle Stability for Autonomous Vehicles on Low-Friction Roads
Authors: Park Manbok , Yim Seongjin
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a comparative study on coordinated control of path tracking and vehicle stability for autonomous vehicles on low-friction roads. Generally, a path-tracking controller designed on high-friction roads cannot provide good performance under low-friction conditions. To cope with the problem, a coordinated control between path tracking and vehicle stability has been proposed to date. In this paper, three types of coordinated controllers are classified according to the controller structure. As an actuator, front-wheel steering, four-wheel steering, and four-wheel independent braking and driving are adopted. A common feature of these types of controllers is that front steering and yaw moment control are adopted as control inputs. To convert the yaw moment control into tire forces generated by combinations of multiple actuators, a control allocation method is applied. For each type, a controller is designed and simulated using vehicle simulation software. From the simulation results, a performance comparison among those controller types is carried out. Through comparison, it is shown that there are small differences among those types of controllers in terms of path tracking.
Turbulent Boundary Layer Separation Control Using Magnetohydrodynamic Plasma Actuator
Authors: Kotvitskii Alexander , Kazanskii Pavel , Moralev Ivan
Published: October 2023

The pulse electric arc discharge in an external magnetic field is studied as a vortex generator in the subsonic boundary layer. A pulsed Ampere force induces a hairpin vortex near the wall; its structure depends on the relative direction of arc propagation and external flow velocity. The data presented in this article were obtained from parametric studies of vortex characteristics and their effects on the boundary layer profile at various actuator momentum coefficients (Cμ=1−30) and vortex sizes relative to the boundary layer thickness (D/δ=0.5−1.2). Also, the control of turbulent boundary layer separation on a bump at a flow velocity up to 50 m/s was attempted. An average shift of the separation line by 15% of the bump height was obtained at a flow velocity of 50 m/s and a total momentum coefficient of 0.6%.
Effect of Multi-Joint Clearance Coupling on Shimmy of Nose Landing Gear
Authors: Feng Guang , Jiang Bingyan , Jiang Yiyao
Published: October 2023

The existence of joint clearances in the nose landing gear (NLG) is inevitable and significantly affects shimmy. It was found that the interaction of each joint clearance is closely related to the analysis of shimmy stability. In this study, the shimmy model of NLG with three-dimensional joint clearance was established by using LMS VirtualLab Motion. Based on the method of multibody dynamics (MBD), the load transfer mechanism at the joints of the NLG was analyzed, and the oscillation characteristics with multiple joint clearances were investigated. The results indicate that the radial and axial contact force of the joint decreases from bottom to top, and the radial contact forces are relatively high at the end positions of the connection shafts, resulting in uneven wear. When the joint clearance reaches a certain value, periodic shimmy of the NLG will occur, and an increase in torsional damping can reduce the amplitude of the shimmy. Therefore, this study reveals the influence of multi-position joint clearance coupling on shimmy, and provides a valuable insight for the maintenance and design of landing gear joints.
Curcumin Electrochemistry—Antioxidant Activity Assessment, Voltammetric Behavior and Quantitative Determination, Applications as Electrode Modifier
Authors: David Iulia Gabriela , Iorgulescu Emilia Elena , Popa Dana Elena , Buleandra Mihaela , Cheregi Mihaela Carmen , Noor Hassan
Published: October 2023

Curcumin (CU) is a polyphenolic compound extracted from turmeric, a well-known dietary spice. Since it has been shown that CU exerts beneficial effects on human health, interest has increased in its use but also in its analysis in different matrices. CU has an antioxidant character and is electroactive due to the presence of phenolic groups in its molecule. This paper reviews the data reported in the literature regarding the use of electrochemical techniques for the assessment of CU antioxidant activity and the investigation of the voltammetric behavior at different electrodes of free or loaded CU on various carriers. The performance characteristics and the analytical applications of the electrochemical methods developed for CU analysis are compared and critically discussed. Examples of voltammetric investigations of CU interaction with different metallic ions or of CU or CU complexes with DNA as well as the CU applications as electrode modifiers for the enhanced detection of various chemical species are also shown.
Manufacturing Innovation: A Heuristic Model of Innovation Processes for Industry 4.0
Authors: Larsen Maria Stoettrup Schioenning , Lassen Astrid Heidemann , Schou Casper
Published: October 2023

Despite the promising potential of Industry 4.0, the transition of the manufacturing industry is still very slow-paced. In this article, we argue that one reason for this development is the fact that existing foundational process models of manufacturing innovation are developed for steady-state conditions, not considering the complexity and uncertainty related to Industry 4.0. This lack of models built for the characteristics of Industry 4.0 further translates into a lack of operational approaches and insights into engaging with Industry 4.0 in practice. Therefore, this article presents a case study of developing a comprehensive Industry 4.0 solution and identifies key characteristics of the emerging process design. Based on the case study findings, we propose a heuristic model of an innovation process for manufacturing innovation. The proposed model uses an iterative process that allows experimentation and exploration with manufacturing innovation. The iterative approach continuously enhances knowledge levels and incorporates this knowledge in the process to refine the design of the manufacturing innovation. Furthermore, the iterative process design supports partitioning the complexity of the manufacturing innovation into smaller parts, which are easier to grasp, thereby improving the conditions for the successful adoption of manufacturing innovations for Industry 4.0.
Electrolyte Optimization to Improve the High-Voltage Operation of Single-Crystal LiNi0.83Co0.11Mn0.06O2 in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Wengao , Si Mayan , Wang Kuan , Brack Enzo , Zhang Ziyan , Fan Xinming , Battaglia Corsin
Published: October 2023

Single-crystal Ni-rich layered oxide materials LiNi1−x−yCoxMnyO2 (NCM, 1 – x − y ≥ 0.6) are emerging as promising cathode materials that do not show intergranular cracks as a result of the lack of grain boundaries and anisotropy of the bulk structure, enabling extended cyclability in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) operating at high voltage. However, SC-NCM materials still suffer from capacity fading upon extended cycling. This degradation of capacity can be attributed to a reconstruction of the surface. A phase transformation from layered structures to disordered spinel/rock-salt structures was found to be responsible for impedance growth and capacity loss. Film-forming additives are a straightforward approach for the mitigation of surface reconstruction via the formation of a robust protection layer at the cathode’s surface. In this work, we investigate various additives on the electrochemical performance of single-crystal LiNi0.83Co0.11Mn0.06O2 (SC-NCM83). The results demonstrate that the use of 1% lithium difluoroxalate borate (LiDFOB) and 1% lithium difluorophosphate (LiPO2F2) additives substantially enhanced the cycling performance (with a capacity retention of 93.6% after 150 cycles) and rate capability in comparison to the baseline electrolyte (72.7%) as well as electrolytes using 1% LiDFOB (90.5%) or 1% LiPO2F2 (88.3%) individually. The superior cycling stability of the cell using the combination of both additives was attributed to the formation of a conformal cathode/electrolyte interface (CEI) layer, resulting in a stabilized bulk structure and decreased impedance upon long-term cycling, as evidenced via a combination of state-of-the-art analytical techniques.
The Polarization and Heat Generation Characteristics of Lithium-Ion Battery with Electric–Thermal Coupled Modeling
Authors: Guo Jiayong , Guo Qiang , Liu Jie , Wang Hewu
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the polarization and heat generation characteristics of batteries under different ambient temperatures and discharge rates by means of using a coupled electric–thermal model. This study found that the largest percentage of polarization is ohmic polarization, followed by concentration polarization and electrochemical polarization. The values of the three types of polarization are generally small and stable under normal-temperature environments and low discharge rates. However, they increase significantly in low-temperature environments and at high discharge rates and continue to rise during the discharge process. Additionally, ohmic heat generation and polarization generation also increase significantly under these conditions. Reversible entropy heat is less sensitive to ambient temperature but increases significantly with the increase in the discharge rate. Ohmic heat generation and polarization heat generation contribute to the total heat generation of the battery at any ambient temperature, while reversible entropy heat only contributes to the total heat generation of the battery at the end of discharge.
In Vivo Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy of Ethyl Cellulose-Ethanol Tissue Ablation in a Swine Cervix Model
Authors: Quang Tri T. , Yang Jeffrey , Kaluzienski Michele L. , Parrish Anna , Farooqui Asma , Katz David , Crouch Brian , Ramanujam Nimmi , Mueller Jenna L.
Published: October 2023

Current therapies for treating cervical dysplasia are often inaccessible in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), highlighting the need for novel low-cost therapies that can be delivered at the point of care. Ethanol ablation is a low-cost therapy designed to treat locoregional cancers, which we augmented into an ethyl cellulose (EC)-ethanol gel formulation to enhance its efficacy. Here, we evaluated whether EC-ethanol ablation is able to safely achieve an ablation zone comparable to thermocoagulation, a commonly used therapy for cervical dysplasia. The study was performed in 20 female Yorkshire pigs treated with either a single 500 µL injection of EC-ethanol into the 12 o’clock position of the cervix or a single application of thermocoagulation at 100 °C for 20 s. The average temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen remained within normal ranges throughout the EC-ethanol procedure and were similar to the thermocoagulation group. No major side effects were observed. The reproductive tracts were excised after 24 h to examine ablation zones. Comparable depths of necrosis were seen for EC-ethanol (18.6 ± 1.6 mm) and thermocoagulation (19.7 ± 4.1 mm). The volumes of necrosis induced by a single injection of EC-ethanol (626.2 ± 122.8 µL) were comparable to the necrotic volumes induced by thermocoagulation in the top half of the cervices (664.6 ± 168.5 µL). This suggests that two EC-ethanol injections could be performed (e.g., at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions) to achieve comparable total necrotic volumes to thermocoagulation and safely and effectively treat women with cervical dysplasia in LMICs. This is the first study to systematically evaluate EC-ethanol ablation in a large animal model and compare its safety and efficacy to thermocoagulation, a commonly used ablative therapy for cervical dysplasia.
Virtual Dental Articulation Using Computed Tomography Data and Motion Tracking
Authors: Chou Ting-Han , Liao Shu-Wei , Huang Jun-Xuan , Huang Hsun-Yu , Vu-Dinh Hien , Yau Hong-Tzong
Published: October 2023

Dental articulation holds crucial and fundamental importance in the design of dental restorations and analysis of prosthetic or orthodontic occlusions. However, common traditional and digital articulators are difficult and cumbersome in use to effectively translate the dental cast model to the articulator workspace when using traditional facebows. In this study, we have developed a personalized virtual dental articulator that directly utilizes computed tomography (CT) data to mathematically model the complex jaw movement, providing a more efficient and accurate way of analyzing and designing dental restorations. By utilizing CT data, Frankfurt’s horizontal plane was established for the mathematical modeling of virtual articulation, eliminating tedious facebow transfers. After capturing the patients’ CT images and tracking their jaw movements prior to dental treatment, the jaw-tracking information was incorporated into the articulation mathematical model. The validation and analysis of the personalized articulation approach were conducted by comparing the jaw movement between simulation data (virtual articulator) and real measurement data. As a result, the proposed virtual articulator achieves two important functions. Firstly, it replaces the traditional facebow transfer process by transferring the digital dental model to the virtual articulator through the anatomical relationship derived from the cranial CT data. Secondly, the jaw movement trajectory provided by optical tracking was incorporated into the mathematical articulation model to create a personalized virtual articulation with a small Fréchet distance of 1.7 mm. This virtual articulator provides a valuable tool that enables dentists to obtain diagnostic information about the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and configure personalized settings of occlusal analysis for patients.
Taxanes in the Treatment of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Yun , Lin Ching-Chan , Chang Wei-Chao
Published: October 2023

Taxanes, particularly docetaxel (DTX), has been widely used for combination therapy of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). For locally advanced unresectable HNSCC, DTX combined with cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil as a revolutionary treatment revealed an advantage in the improvement of patient outcome. In addition, DTX plus immune check inhibitors (ICIs) showed low toxicity and an increased response of patients with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC (R/M HNSCC). Accumulated data indicate that taxanes not only function as antimitotics but also impair diverse oncogenic signalings, including angiogenesis, inflammatory response, ROS production, and apoptosis induction. However, despite an initial response, the development of resistance remains a major obstacle to treatment response. Taxane resistance could result from intrinsic mechanisms, such as enhanced DNA/RNA damage repair, increased drug efflux, and apoptosis inhibition, and extrinsic effects, such as angiogenesis and interactions between tumor cells and immune cells. This review provides an overview of taxanes therapy applied in different stages of HNSCC and describe the mechanisms of taxane resistance in HNSCC. Through a detailed understanding, the mechanisms of resistance may help in developing the potential therapeutic methods and the effective combination strategies to overcome drug resistance.
Resveratrol and beyond: The Effect of Natural Polyphenols on the Cardiovascular System: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gál Roland , Halmosi Róbert , Gallyas Ferenc , Tschida Michael , Mutirangura Pornthira , Tóth Kálmán , Alexy Tamás , Czopf László
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unhealthy dietary habits have clearly been shown to contribute to the development of CVDs. Beyond the primary nutrients, a healthy diet is also rich in plant-derived compounds. Natural polyphenols, found in fruits, vegetables, and red wine, have a clear role in improving cardiovascular health. In this review, we strive to summarize the results of the relevant pre-clinical and clinical trials that focused on some of the most important natural polyphenols, such as resveratrol and relevant flavonoids. In addition, we aim to identify their common sources, biosynthesis, and describe their mechanism of action including their regulatory effect on signal transduction pathways. Finally, we provide scientific evidence regarding the cardiovascular benefits of moderate, long-term red wine consumption.
Identification of Novel Targeting Sites of Calcineurin and CaMKII in Human CaV3.2 T-Type Calcium Channel
Authors: Chang Yu-Wang , Chen Yong-Cyuan , Chen Chien-Chang
Published: October 2023

The Cav3.2 T-type calcium channel is implicated in various pathological conditions, including cardiac hypertrophy, epilepsy, autism, and chronic pain. Phosphorylation of Cav3.2 by multiple kinases plays a pivotal role in regulating its calcium channel function. The calcium/calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase, calcineurin, interacts physically with Cav3.2 and modulates its activity. However, it remains unclear whether calcineurin dephosphorylates Cav3.2, the specific spatial regions on Cav3.2 involved, and the extent of the quantitative impact. In this study, we elucidated the serine/threonine residues on Cav3.2 targeted by calcineurin using quantitative mass spectrometry. We identified six serine residues in the N-terminus, II–III loop, and C-terminus of Cav3.2 that were dephosphorylated by calcineurin. Notably, a higher level of dephosphorylation was observed in the Cav3.2 C-terminus, where calcineurin binds to this channel. Additionally, a previously known CaMKII-phosphorylated site, S1198, was found to be dephosphorylated by calcineurin. Furthermore, we also discovered that a novel CaMKII-phosphorylated site, S2137, underwent dephosphorylation by calcineurin. In CAD cells, a mouse central nervous system cell line, membrane depolarization led to an increase in the phosphorylation of endogenous Cav3.2 at S2137. Mutation of S2137 affected the calcium channel function of Cav3.2. Our findings advance the understanding of Cav3.2 regulation not only through kinase phosphorylation but also via calcineurin phosphatase dephosphorylation.
Atomic-Scale Insights into Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation over Bimetallic Iron–Cobalt Catalysts: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Tuncer Dilan , Kizilkaya Ali Can
Published: October 2023

The conversion of carbon dioxide to fuels and chemicals is a promising long-term approach for mitigating CO2 emissions. Despite extensive experimental efforts, a fundamental understanding of the bimetallic catalytic structures that selectively produce the desired products is still lacking. Here, we report on a computational surface science approach into the effect of the Fe doping of Co(111) surfaces in relation to CO2 hydrogenation to C1 products. Our results indicate that Fe doping increases the binding strength of surface species but slightly decreases the overall catalytic activity due to an increase in the rate-limiting step of CO dissociation. FeCo(111) surfaces hinder hydrogenation reactions due to lower H coverages and higher activation energies. These effects are linked to the Lewis basic character of the Fe atoms in FeCo(111), leading to an increased charge on the adsorbates. The main effect of Fe doping is identified as the inhibition of oxygen removal from cobalt surfaces, which can be expected to lead to the formation of oxidic phases on bimetallic FeCo catalysts. Overall, our study provides comprehensive mechanistic insights related to the effect of Fe doping on the catalytic behavior and structural evolution of FeCo bimetallic catalysts, which can contribute to the rational design of bimetallic catalysts.
Quality-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm Laser for Management of Hyperpigmentation and Atrophic Scars after Long-Pulsed Nd:YAG Laser for Treatment of Leg Telangiectasias—A Case Report
Authors: Heidemeyer Kristine , Seyed Jafari S. Morteza , Adatto Maurice A. , Feldmeyer Laurence , Yawalkar Nikhil , Bossart Simon
Published: October 2023

The correction of leg telangiectasias is one of the most frequently performed interventions in the Western world. While sclerotherapy remains the gold standard of treatment, several studies have shown comparable efficacy and, in some situations, an even more favorable use of lasers as an alternative treatment option. The most frequent side effect of both treatment options is hyperpigmentation, which usually clears spontaneously in most cases but can be challenging to treat if it persists. The origin of this hyperpigmentation is not fully understood; small studies point to hemosiderin as the causative pigment, at least in post-sclerotherapy hyperpigmentation. More rare side effects of the treatment include ulcerations and scarring. Quality-switched (QS) Nd:YAG lasers have demonstrated good efficacy in treating hemosiderin depositions in the skin, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and atrophic scars. We present a case of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring after laser treatment of leg telangiectasia with a long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser that was successfully treated using a QS Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser. This case suggests the QS Nd:YAG laser as a possible treatment option in cases of hyperpigmentation with various origins, including hemosiderin and melanin, and scarring after laser treatment of leg telangiectasias.
Development of Effervescent Cleansing Tablets Containing Asiatic-Acid-Loaded Solid Lipid Microparticles
Authors: Mang Sung Thluai Lucy , Titapiwatanakun Varin , Ruksiriwanich Warintorn , Boonpisuttinant Korawinwich , Chutoprapat Romchat
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to develop effervescent cleansing tablets that can be dissolved and turned into liquid soap, which can be used for bathing or soaking the body. The asiatic-acid-loaded solid lipid microparticles (AASLMs) were prepared via the hot emulsification method followed by cold re-solidification and then freeze-dried to obtained dry powder. The physicochemical properties such as morphology and % entrapment efficiency (%EE) were evaluated. The results revealed that AASLMs have an irregular shape, and the %EE for the resulting AASLMs was 92.04 ± 3.43%. The tablets were manufactured via the direct compression technique. The compatibility test was conducted to ensure that the excipients are compatible with the active ingredient. The angle of repose, Carr’s index, and Hausner’s ratio were studied to evaluate the flowability of the powder blend before compression. The weight of each tablet was set to 1000 mg, and physicochemical characteristics, in vitro dissolution, ex vivo cleansing efficacy, and stability were evaluated. The results showed that the active ingredient was compatible with other excipients, as the results obtained from FTIR spectra indicated the absence of potential chemical interaction between the active ingredient and excipients used in this study. Additionally, all formulations had good flow properties. The effervescence times of selected formulations, F2 and F3, were <5 min, with favorable pH and hardness values. The friability values of all formulations exceeded 1% because the excipients used in effervescent tablets are very fragile. The release of asiatic acid (AA) from the tablets was dependent on the concentration of SLS. In an ex vivo test, it was discovered that the developed products F2 and F3 showed much more effective cleansing efficacy than water. Nevertheless, brown spots appeared in the tablets and the AA content was significantly decreased in both tested formulations after 3 months’ storage at 40 ± 2 °C/75% RH ± 5% RH. The stability study revealed that the developed products were not stable at high temperature and humidity. Therefore, it is recommended that the developed effervescent tablets are not stored at a high temperature.
Relationships between Heart Chamber Morphology or Function and Respiratory Parameters in Patients with HFrEF and Various Types of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Authors: Simionescu Karolina , Łoboda Danuta , Adamek Mariusz , Wilczek Jacek , Gibiński Michał , Gardas Rafał , Biernat Jolanta , Gołba Krzysztof S.
Published: October 2023

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), i.e., central sleep apnea (CSA) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), affects the prognosis of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The study assessed the relationships between heart chamber size or function and respiratory parameters in patients with HFrEF and various types of SDB. The 84 participants were patients aged 68.3 ± 8.4 years (80% men) with an average left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 25.5 ± 6.85% who qualified for cardioverter-defibrillator implantation with or without cardiac resynchronization therapy. SDB, defined by an apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ five events/hour, was diagnosed in 76 patients (90.5%); SDB was severe in 31 (36.9%), moderate in 26 (31.0%), and mild in 19 (22.6%). CSA was the most common type of SDB (64 patients, 76.2%). A direct proportional relationship existed only in the CSA group between LVEF or stroke volume (SV) and AHI (p = 0.02 and p = 0.07), and between LVEF or SV and the percentage of total sleep time spent with hemoglobin oxygen saturation < 90% (p = 0.06 and p = 0.07). In contrast, the OSA group was the only group in which right ventricle size showed a positive relationship with AHI (for basal linear dimension [RVD1] p = 0.06), mean duration of the respiratory event (for RVD1 p = 0.03, for proximal outflow diameter [RVOT proximal] p = 0.009), and maximum duration of respiratory event (for RVD1 p = 0.049, for RVOT proximal p = 0.006). We concluded that in HFrEF patients, SDB severity is related to LV systolic function and SV only in CSA, whereas RV size correlates primarily with apnea/hypopnea episode duration in OSA.
Dental Maturation in Two Groups of Children Born in 1969–1973 and 2005–2010
Authors: Poulsen Astrid Rathcke , Sonnesen Liselotte
Published: October 2023

This study compared differences in dental maturation and dental age in Scandinavian children born in 1969–1973 and 2005–2010. The study was based on 130 ethnic Scandinavian children, who were divided in two groups corresponding to the time periods and matched on age and sex. Each group consisted of 65 children (30 girls, 35 boys, mean age 9.29 years and 9.30 years, respectively). Dental maturation was analysed by orthopantomographs, in accordance with Demirjian and Haavikko. Dental age was analysed by orthopantomographs in accordance with Demirjian. Boys and girls were analysed separately by linear regression analysis adjusted for age. For the children born in 2005–2010, teeth matured significantly earlier (Demirjian: 0.21 maturities, CI 95% 0.11–0.31, p < 0.000. Haavikko: maxilla: 0.39 maturities, CI 95% 0.21–0.56, p < 0.000. Mandible: 0.42 maturities, CI 95% 0.17–0.67, p = 0.001) and the dental age was significantly higher (Demirjian: 6.04 months, CI 95% 0.23–0.77, p < 0.000) in comparison with the children born in 1969–1973. In conclusion, the teeth of Scandinavian children born 2005–2010 matured significantly earlier than those of children born in 1969–1973. The results may prove valuable in forensic dentistry, pedodontics, and for the timing of pedodontic and orthodontic treatment.
Influence of Isoflavones and Probiotics on Magnesium Status in Healthy Female Rats
Authors: Harahap Iskandar Azmy , Kuligowski Maciej , Schmidt Marcin , Kurzawa Paweł , Suliburska Joanna
Published: October 2023

Isoflavones and probiotics are promising nutrients for bone health, and magnesium (Mg) is essential for bone metabolism. This study aimed to determine the effects of daidzein, genistein and Lactobacillus acidophilus on the Mg status of healthy female rats. Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to six groups, with the control group receiving a standard diet (AIN 93M). The remaining groups were fed the same diet with added ingredients such as tempeh flour; soy flour; pure daidzein and genistein; L. acidophilus or a combination of daidzein, genistein, and L. acidophilus. Tissue samples were collected after the eight-week intervention, and Mg concentrations were analysed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Myeloid and erythroid cells were determined using the haematoxylin and eosin bone staining method. Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The threshold for significance was p < 0.05. Compared with the control group, adding tempeh to the diet of rats resulted in significant changes in Mg concentrations in various tissues, with a decrease in the kidneys and an increase in the fur. Although not statistically significant compared to the control group, the tempeh group showed increased Mg concentrations in the femur and spleen. The myeloid-to-erythroid cell ratio did not differ significantly among groups, but all intervention groups showed higher ratios than the control group. A strong negative correlation was observed between Mg concentrations in the kidneys and fur. Conversely, a positive correlation was identified between Mg concentrations in the pancreas and fur. Daily consumption of tempeh may improve Mg status in the organism. Intake of pure daidzein, genistein, or probiotic seems to have no effect on Mg concentrations in healthy rats.
Exploring the Functional Properties of Propolis, Geopropolis, and Cerumen, with a Special Emphasis on Their Antimicrobial Effects
Authors: Chuttong Bajaree , Lim Kaiyang , Praphawilai Pichet , Danmek Khanchai , Maitip Jakkrawut , Vit Patricia , Wu Ming-Cheng , Ghosh Sampat , Jung Chuleui , Burgett Michael , Hongsibsong Surat
Published: October 2023

Bee propolis has been touted as a natural antimicrobial agent with the potential to replace antibiotics. Numerous reports and reviews have highlighted the functionalities and applications of the natural compound. Despite much clamor for the downstream application of propolis, there remain many grounds to cover, especially in the upstream production, and factors affecting the quality of the propolis. Moreover, geopropolis and cerumen, akin to propolis, hold promise for diverse human applications, yet their benefits and intricate manufacturing processes remain subjects of intensive research. Specialized cement bees are pivotal in gathering and transporting plant resins from suitable sources to their nests. Contrary to common belief, these resins are directly applied within the hive, smoothed out by cement bees, and blended with beeswax and trace components to create raw propolis. Beekeepers subsequently harvest and perform the extraction of the raw propolis to form the final propolis extract that is sold on the market. As a result of the production process, intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as botanical origins, bee species, and the extraction process, have a direct impact on the quality of the final propolis extract. Towards the end of this paper, a section is dedicated to highlighting the antimicrobial potency of propolis extract.
Composition and Bioactivity of Chlorogenic Acids in Vegetable and Conventional Sweet Potato Vine Tips
Authors: Meng Fantong , Du Wantong , Zhu Yaxing , Du Ximeng , Song Chengchuang , Chen Xi , Fang Xingtang , Cao Qinghe , Ma Daifu , Wang Yanhong , Zhang Chunlei
Published: October 2023

Sweet potato vine tips are abundant in chlorogenic acid (CGA). In this study, CGA was extracted from vegetable and conventional sweet potato vine tips using ethanol, followed by subsequent purification of the extract through a series of sequential steps. Over 4 g of the purified product was obtained from 100 g of sweet potato vine tip powder, producing more than 85% of purified CGA. The LC-MS analysis of all samples indicated that 4-CQA was the predominant isomer in both sweet potato cultivars. Significant variations of p-coumaroyl quinic acids, feruloyl quinic acids, dicaffeoyl quinic acids, and tricaffeoyl quinic acid were identified, whereas the mono-caffeoyl quinic acids did not vary when the two sweet potato varieties were compared. Compared to conventional sweet potatoes, vegetable sweet potatoes exhibit a high negative correlation between 4-CQA and 5-pCoQA, while showing a high positive correlation between 3,5-CQA and 3-pCoQA. A series of principal component analyses (PCA) using CGA isomers enables a clear differentiation between vine tips derived from vegetable and conventional sweet potatoes. The model of linear discriminant analysis, based on the characteristic CGA, achieved a 100% accuracy rate in distinguishing between vegetable and conventional sweet potatoes. The high purity of sweet potato CGA (SCGA) exhibited potent anti-breast cancer activity. The results demonstrated that SCGA significantly suppressed the clonogenicity of MB231 and MCF7 cells, and impeded the migratory, invasive, and lung metastatic potential of MB231 cells.
Comment on Sallam, M. ChatGPT Utility in Healthcare Education, Research, and Practice: Systematic Review on the Promising Perspectives and Valid Concerns. Healthcare 2023, 11, 887
Authors: Moreno Emilio , Alvarez-Lozada Luis Adrian , Arrambide-Garza Francisco Javier , Quiroga-Garza Alejandro , Elizondo-Omaña Rodrigo Enrique
Published: October 2023

We read with great interest and applaud the recently published review paper regarding ChatGPT and its implications in research and education [...]
Complications of Intrathecal Baclofen Pump Therapy: An Institutional Experience from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Qureshi Ahmad Zaheer , Shacfe Hasan , Ilyas Amara , Ayaz Saeed Bin , Aljamaan Khalid Yousef , Moukais Imad Saeed , Jameel Mohammed , Sami Waqas , Ullah Sami
Published: October 2023

The intrathecal baclofen pump (ITB) is one of the advanced treatment options in the management of spasticity. This retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify the complications of ITB treatment at a tertiary care rehabilitation facility. Various demographic and technical factors were analyzed, which are less often reported in the literature. All patients with ITB who had their refill at the ITB clinic between November 2019 and March 2020 were included. Of 48 patients, 17 patients had 18 (37.5%) ITB-related complications. Catheter-related complications were most common, whereas loss of efficacy (16.7%) and baclofen withdrawal (14.5%) were the most common outcomes of complications. Only catheter occlusion had a significant relationship with the pattern of spastic quadriparesis (p = 0.001). Gender, rehabilitation diagnosis, patients’ residence, and facility of ITB placement did not have significant association. Similarly, age, distance from hospital, disease onset, ITB therapy duration, and baclofen dose were not statistically significant in relation to ITB-related complications.
Atherosclerosis and Its Related Laboratory Biomarkers
Authors: Della Corte Vittoriano , Todaro Federica , Cataldi Marco , Tuttolomondo Antonino
Published: October 2023

Atherosclerosis constitutes a persistent inflammatory ailment, serving as the predominant underlying condition for coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular disease. The progressive buildup of plaques within the walls of medium- and large-caliber arteries characterizes the atherosclerotic process. This accumulation results in significant narrowing that impedes blood flow, leading to critical tissue oxygen deficiency. Spontaneous blockage of thrombotic vessels can precipitate stroke and myocardial infarction, which are complications representing the primary global causes of mortality. Present-day models for predicting cardiovascular risk incorporate conventional risk factors to gauge the likelihood of cardiovascular events over a ten-year span. In recent times, researchers have identified serum biomarkers associated with an elevated risk of atherosclerotic events. Many of these biomarkers, whether used individually or in combination, have been integrated into risk prediction models to assess whether their inclusion enhances predictive accuracy. In this review, we have conducted a comprehensive analysis of the most recently published literature concerning serum biomarkers associated with atherosclerosis. We have explored the potential utility of incorporating these markers in guiding clinical decisions.
The Role of Human Endogenous Retrovirus (HERV)-K119 env in THP-1 Monocytic Cell Differentiation
Authors: Ko Eun-Ji , Kim Min-Hye , Kim Do-Ye , An Hyojin , Leem Sun-Hee , Choi Yung Hyun , Kim Heui-Soo , Cha Hee-Jae
Published: October 2023

Human endogenous retrovirus (HERV)-K was reportedly inserted into the human genome millions of years ago and is closely related to various diseases, including cancer and immune regulation. In our previous studies, CRISPR-Cas9-enabled knockout (KO) of the HERV-K env gene was found to potentially reduce cell proliferation, cell migration, and invasion in colorectal and ovarian cancer cell lines. The immune response involves the migration and invasion of cells and is similar to cancer; however, in certain ways, it is completely unlike cancer. Therefore, we induced HERV-K119 env gene KO in THP-1, a monocytic cell that can be differentiated into a macrophage, to investigate the role of HERV-K119 env in immune regulation. Cell migration and invasion were noted to be significantly increased in HERV-K119 env KO THP-1 cells than in MOCK, and these results were contrary to those of cancer cells. To identify the underlying mechanism of HERV-K119 env KO in THP-1 cells, transcriptome analysis and cytokine array analysis were conducted. Semaphorin7A (SEMA7A), which induces the production of cytokines in macrophages and monocytic cells and plays an important role in immune effector cell activation during an inflammatory immune response, was significantly increased in HERV-K119 env KO THP-1 cells. We also found that HERV-K119 env KO THP-1 cells expressed various macrophage-specific surface markers, suggesting that KO of HERV-K119 env triggers the differentiation of THP-1 cells from monocytic cells into macrophages. In addition, analysis of the expression of M1 and M2 macrophage markers showed that M1 macrophage marker cluster of differentiation 32 (CD32) was significantly increased in HERV-K119 env KO cells. These results suggest that HERV-K119 env is implicated in the differentiation of monocytic cells into M1 macrophages and plays important roles in the immune response.
Effects of Copper or Zinc Organometallics on Cytotoxicity, DNA Damage and Epigenetic Changes in the HC-04 Human Liver Cell Line
Authors: Desaulniers Daniel , Zhou Gu , Stalker Andrew , Cummings-Lorbetskie Cathy
Published: October 2023

Copper and zinc organometallics have multiple applications and many are considered “data-poor” because the available toxicological information is insufficient for comprehensive health risk assessments. To gain insight into the chemical prioritization and potential structure activity relationship, the current work compares the in vitro toxicity of nine “data-poor” chemicals to five structurally related chemicals and to positive DNA damage inducers (4-nitroquinoline-oxide, aflatoxin-B1). The HC-04 non-cancer human liver cell line was used to investigate the concentration–response effects (24 h and 72 h exposure) on cell proliferation, DNA damage (γH2AX and DNA unwinding assays), and epigenetic effects (global genome changes in DNA methylation and histone modifications using flow cytometry). The 24 h exposure screening data (DNA abundance and damage) suggest a toxicity hierarchy, starting with copper dimethyldithiocarbamate (CDMDC, CAS#137-29-1) > zinc diethyldithiocarbamate (ZDEDC, CAS#14324-55-1) > benzenediazonium, 4-chloro-2-nitro-, and tetrachlorozincate(2-) (2:1) (BDCN4CZ, CAS#14263-89-9); the other chemicals were less toxic and had alternate ranking positions depending on assays. The potency of CDMDC for inducing DNA damage was close to that of the human hepatocarcinogen aflatoxin-B1. Further investigation using sodium-DMDC (SDMDC, CAS#128-04-1), CDMDC and copper demonstrated the role of the interactions between copper and the DMDC organic moiety in generating a high level of CDMDC toxicity. In contrast, additive interactions were not observed with respect to the DNA methylation flow cytometry data in 72 h exposure experiments. They revealed chemical-specific effects, with hypo and hypermethylation induced by copper chloride (CuCl2, CAS#10125-13-0) and zinc-DMDC (ZDMDC, CAS#137-30-4), respectively, but did not show any significant effect of CDMDC or SDMDC. Histone-3 hypoacetylation was a sensitive flow cytometry marker of 24 h exposure to CDMDC. This study can provide insights regarding the prioritization of chemicals for future study, with the aim being to mitigate chemical hazards.