bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Influenza and Low Flu Vaccination Coverage as Important Factors Modifying the Costs and Availability of Hospital Services in Poland: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Susło Robert , Pobrotyn Piotr , Brydak Lidia , Rypicz Łukasz , Grata-Borkowska Urszula , Drobnik Jarosław
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Influenza infection is associated with potential serious complications, increased hospitalization rates, and a higher risk of death. Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative analysis of selected indicators of hospitalization from the University Hospital in Wroclaw, Poland, was carried out on patients with confirmed influenza infection in comparison to a control group randomly selected from among all other patients hospitalized on the respective wards during the 2018–2019 influenza season. Results: The mean laboratory testing costs for the entire hospital were 3.74-fold higher and the mean imaging test costs were 4.02-fold higher for patients with confirmed influenza than for the control group; the hospital expenses were additionally raised by the cost of antiviral therapy, which is striking when compared against the cost of a single flu vaccine. During the 2018–2019 influenza season, influenza infections among the hospital patients temporarily limited the healthcare service availability in the institution, which resulted in reduced admission rates to the departments related to internal medicine; the mean absence among the hospital staff totaled approximately 7 h per employee, despite 7.3% of the staff having been vaccinated against influenza at the hospital’s expense. Conclusions: There were significant differences in the hospitalization indicators between the patients with confirmed influenza and the control group, which markedly increased the hospital care costs in this multi-specialty university hospital.
The Effect of Contextual Variables on Match Performance across Different Playing Positions in Professional Portuguese Soccer Players
Authors: Barrera Joel , Sarmento Hugo , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Field Adam , Figueiredo António J.
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the position-specific physical demands of professional Portuguese players. The effects of situational variables on the physical performance demands were also analysed (match location, match half and match result). Match performance observations were collected using Global Navigation Satellite System devices across 11 matches during a competitive season (2019–2020). Data were analysed according to five playing positions: goalkeepers (n = 11), central defenders (n = 42), wide defenders (n = 31), central midfielders (n = 34), open attackers (n = 28), and centre forwards (n = 14). Central midfield players completed the greatest total distance (10,787 ± 1536 m), while central defenders covered the least distance (9272 ± 455; p < 0.001). Open attackers covered the greatest high and very-high-speed distance (1504 ± 363 m), number of high-speed decelerations per match (11 ± 4) and were the fastest players (30.6 ± 1.5 km/h), along with center forwards (30.6 ± 2.0 km/h), versus all other positions (p < 0.05). Greater distances were performed in teams that were winning (9978 ± 1963 m) or drawing (10,395 ± 875 m) versus losing (9415 ± 2050) p = 0.036 and p = 0.006, respectively. Increases in distance covered at walking speeds were observed during the 2nd half (1574 ± 179 m) compared with the 1st half (1483 ± 176; (p < 0.003). A higher number of decelerations across all speeds were performed in the 1st half (144 ± 39) versus the 2nd half (135 ± 37). The distance covered in home matches (10,206 ± 1926 m) far exceeded away matches (9471 ± 1932 m; p < 0.001). The number of faster accelerations were higher in away (7 ± 5) versus home matches (6 ± 4; p < 0.049). The data demonstrate the different physical demands of each playing position and suggest that situational variables influence physical performance. These findings suggest position-specific physical training is required to condition players for the bespoke demands of each playing position.
Evaluation of Chemical Parameters of Urban Drinking Water Quality along with Health Risk Assessment: A Case Study of Ardabil Province, Iran
Authors: Aghlmand Reza , Rasi Nezami Saeed , Abbasi Ali
Published: May 2021

In recent years, in addition to water resources’ quantity, their quality has also received much attention. In this study, the quality of the urban water distribution network in northwestern Iran was evaluated using the water quality index (WQI) method. Then, some important trace elements were investigated, and finally, the health risk assessment was evaluated for both carcinogenic elements (Ni, Cd, Cr, Pb, and As) and non-carcinogenic elements (Ca, Mg, Na, K, F, NO3, and Cu) using carcinogenic risk (CR) and hazard quotient (HQ), respectively. In the present study, the WQI was calculated based on both World Health Organization (WHO) and Iranian drinking water standards. Comparing the results of these standards revealed that the WQI based on the Iranian standard was slightly higher. Regarding the calculated WQI for the study region, the status of water quality for drinking consumption is in the good water quality class (25 < WQI < 50). It was observed that Cu and Cd have the highest and lowest concentrations in all sampling points, respectively. Hazard Index (HI) results showed that the non-carcinogenic substances studied had a low risk for both adults and children (<1.0). However, the CR results showed that Ni, Cd, and As were above the desired level for both children and adults. The results of this study can be applied for efficient water management and human health protection programs in the study area.
The Relationship between Impulsiveness, Self-Esteem, Irrational Gambling Belief and Problem Gambling Moderating Effects of Gender
Authors: Choi Junghyun , Kim Kyoungeun
Published: May 2021

The present study investigated the relationship between impulsivity, self-esteem, irrational gambling belief, and problem gambling and also explored whether the relationships between these constructs are different for males and females. Participants included 563 college students with 259 males (46.0%) and 304 females (54.0%) from Korea. Participants completed a survey. The results showed that 5.3% of students were problem gamblers, while 9.4% were moderate-risk gamblers. The relationships between impulsivity, self-esteem, irrational gambling belief, and problem gambling differed for males and females. For females, greater impulsivity and lower self-esteem predicted higher irrational gambling belief, while higher irrational gambling belief predicted more problem gambling. For males, greater impulsivity predicted higher irrational gambling belief, and higher irrational gambling belief predicted more problem gambling. This finding suggests that different prevention efforts are needed, which will require identifying the variables that affect problem gambling.
Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study of the Association between Knee Pain and Weight Change: Analysis of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2013–2015)
Authors: Choi Sungwoo , Nah Sangun , Jang Hae-Dong , Cheon Seung-Hee , Moon Ji-Eun , Han Sangsoo
Published: May 2021

The knee is a hinge joint that provides stability and control, which are essential in daily life. Obesity is a major cause of knee pain and its incidence continues to increase worldwide. In this study, we analyzed Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data on the general population, and showed an association between weight change and knee pain. A total of 22,948 participants were enrolled; those under the age of 50 and those who did not answer the questions about knee pain or weight change were excluded. In all, 8480 patients were analyzed, 7001 (82.56%) of whom indicated that they did not have knee pain, versus 1479 (17.44%) who did experience knee pain. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to analyze the association between knee pain and weight change. With full adjustment for covariates, weight gain per se (OR 1.37; p = 0.002), and gains of 3–6 kg (OR 1.28; p = 0.029) and ≥6 kg (OR 1.62; p = 0.012), showed significant associations with knee pain. This cross-sectional study confirmed a significant association between knee pain and weight change. Therefore, when evaluating patients with knee pain, it is necessary to evaluate weight gain.
An Experimental Investigation to Use the Biodiesel Resulting from Recycled Sunflower Oil, and Sunflower Oil with Palm Oil as Fuels for Aviation Turbo-Engines
Authors: Cican Grigore , Deaconu Marius , Mirea Radu , Ceatra Laurentiu Constantin , Cretu Mihaiella
Published: May 2021

The paper is presenting the experimental analysis of the use of biodiesel from waste sunflower oil and a blend of sunflower oil with palm oil as fuel for aviation turbo-engines. A comparative analysis for fuel mixtures made of Jet A + 5% Aeroshell 500 Oil (Ke) with 10%, 30%, and 50% for each bio-fuel type has been performed and Ke has been used as reference. Firstly, the following physical and chemical properties were determined: density, viscosity, flash point, freezing point, calorific power. Then, elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis were conducted for Ke, biodiesel obtained from recycled sunflower oil (SF), biodiesel obtained from blending recycled sunflower oil, and recycled palm oil (SFP), and for each fuel blend. Secondly, experimental tests of the blends have been conducted on the Jet Cat P80® micro-turbo engine (Gunt Hamburg, Barsbüttel, Germany). The tests have been conducted at different engine working regimes as follows: idle, cruise, intermediate, and maximum. For each regime, a one-minute testing period was chosen, and the engine parameters have been monitored. The turbo engine instrumentation recorded the temperature after the compressor and before the turbine, the fuel consumption and air flow, pressure inside the combustion chamber, and generated thrust. The burning efficiency and the specific consumption have been calculated for all four above-mentioned regimes and for all fuel blends. Two accelerometers have been installed on the engine’s support to register radial and axial vibrations allowing the assessment of engine stability.
Performance Evaluation of the Chinese Healthcare System
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Mata Mário Nuno , Abbas Adnan , Martins José Moleiro , Dantas Rui Miguel , Mata Pedro Neves
Published: May 2021

This study aims to evaluate the performance of the Chinese healthcare system. It uses sustainable development goal (SDG) 3, set by the United Nations to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages as a benchmark. It uses data of 17 variables ranging from the year 2000 to 2017 and uses a multistage methodology to evaluate the performance. In the first stage, it uses difference in mean test to know whether or not the indicators show an improvement in the second decade of the 21st century compared to the first decade. In the second phase, simple linear regression has been used to know the rate of change of performance of every indicator over the sample period. The third step compares the performance of the healthcare sector with the sustainable goals set by the UN and the fourth phase attempts to forecast performance for the next five years i.e., 2018 to 2022. As per the results, the Chinese healthcare sector has performed very well on many fronts except alcohol consumption in males, road accidents and the incidence of non-communicable diseases. Alcohol consumption by males is touching dangerous levels. Therefore, the policies should focus on educating males to lower their alcohol consumption to stay fit and healthy.
Systematic Review on Outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on Cruise, Navy and Cargo Ships
Authors: Kordsmeyer Ann-Christin , Mojtahedzadeh Natascha , Heidrich Jan , Militzer Kristina , von Münster Thomas , Belz Lukas , Jensen Hans-Joachim , Bakir Sinan , Henning Esther , Heuser Julian , Klein Angelina , Sproessel Nadine , Ekkernkamp Axel , Ehlers Lena , de Boer Jens , Kleine-Kampmann Scarlett , Dirksen-Fischer Martin , Plenge-Bönig Anita , Harth Volker , Oldenburg Marcus
Published: May 2021

The confined environment of a ship promotes the transmission of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) due to close contact among the population on board. The study aims to provide an overview of outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on board of cruise, navy or cargo ships, to identify relevant outbreak management techniques, related problems and to derive recommendations for prevention. Four databases were searched. The study selection included reports about seroprevalences or clinically/laboratory confirmed infections of SARS-CoV-2 on board ships between the first of January, 2020 and the end of July, 2020. A total of 37 studies were included of whom 33 reported outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on cruise ships (27 studies referred to the Diamond Princess). Two studies considered outbreaks on the Grand Princess, three studies informed about Nile River cruises and one study about the MS Westerdam (mention of multiple outbreaks possible in one study). Additionally, three studies reported outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on navy vessels and one study referred to a cargo ship. Problems in handling outbreaks resulted from a high number of asymptomatic infections, transportation issues, challenges in communication or limited access to health care. Responsible operators need to implement infection control measures which should be described in outbreak management plans for ships to prevent transmission risks, including, e.g., education, testing strategies, communication lines, social distancing and hygiene regulations.
Assessment of the Foot’s Longitudinal Arch by Different Indicators and Their Correlation with the Foot Loading Paradigm in School-Aged Children: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Szczepanowska-Wołowiec Beata , Sztandera Paulina , Kotela Ireneusz , Zak Marek
Published: May 2021

Background: There are numerous studies assessing the morphological structure of the foot, but there is a notable scarcity of those focused on juxtaposing various longitudinal arch indices with foot loading paradigm. The present study aimed to determine the overall reliability, diagnostic accuracy of respective variables, and their correlation with the foot loading paradigm. Methods: The study group consisted of 336 children, aged 10–15 years (girls 49.1% and boys 50.9%). The morphological structure of the plantar part of the foot in static conditions was assessed with the aid of a 2D podoscan. Individual foot loading paradigm in static conditions was assessed making use of the FreeMed platform. Results: Staheli (SI), Chippaux–Smirak (CSI), and Sztriter–Godunow (KY) indices were strongly correlated with each other (ρ > 0.84, p < 0.001). Own research corroborated an increased pressure of hollow feet, as assessed by the SI, CSI, and KY indices, on the forefoot and the hindfoot, foot zones B, E, F; these correlations being statistically significant. The results yielded by the present study also indicate an increased pressure on the metatarsal, and foot zones C, D of the flat feet. Conclusions: Flatfootedness is not believed to be a common deformity among children and adolescents. The SI, CSI, and KY indices were found to be strongly correlated, as well as proved reliable in assessing the foot’s longitudinal arch.
Weight Perception Measured by Verbal Descriptions and Visual Descriptions: Which Measurement Correlates with Weight Loss Intentions among Female Nursing Students?
Authors: Wu Ruxing , Zhu Bingqian , Chen Rongfeng , Chen Liqun , Chen Runan , Zhu Daqiao
Published: May 2021

Background: Young females tend to overestimate their weight status, which might induce unhealthy weight loss intentions and behaviours. This study aimed to examine weight perception measured by visual and verbal descriptions and its correlation with weight loss intentions among female nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 600 female nursing students from four medical colleges in Shanghai, China. The participants rated perceptions of their weight by selecting a silhouette from the female Photographic Figure Rating Scale (PFRS) and one of the following verbal descriptions: “very underweight”, “slightly underweight”, “normal”, “overweight” or “obese”. Weight loss intentions were measured using the question “How often do you want to lose weight?”. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from self-reported height and weight. Data were analysed using univariate and ordinal logistic regression analyses. Results: The accuracy of weight perceptions measured by verbal descriptions and visual descriptions was 44.50% and 55%, respectively. In females with underweight BMI (n = 135), 88.15% and 49.63% accurately classified their weight using visual descriptions and verbal descriptions, respectively. These females were more likely to overestimate (53.83% vs. 14.50%) and less likely to underestimate (1.67% vs. 30.50%) their weight when using verbal descriptions than when using visual descriptions. For verbal descriptions, weight overestimation was associated with weight loss intentions (odds ratio, 1.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.25–2.60). However, for visual descriptions, the two variables were not associated. Conclusions: A mismatch occurred between weight perceptions measured by the two methods and BMI status among female nursing students. Compared with verbal descriptions, visual descriptions had higher weight perception accuracy. However, weight overestimation measured by verbal descriptions was more likely to be associated with stronger intentions to lose weight than that of visual descriptions. These findings suggest that methodological discrepancies should be taken into account when measuring weight perception in future studies.
Monitoring of Environmental Hg Occurrence in Tunisian Coastal Areas
Authors: Jebara Amel , Lo Turco Vincenzo , Faggio Caterina , Licata Patrizia , Nava Vincenzo , Potortì Angela Giorgia , Crupi Rosalia , Mansour Hedi Ben , Di Bella Giuseppa
Published: May 2021

Total mercury (Hg) was determined in 450 environmental samples (seawater, sediment plant and fish) from five Mahdia coastal areas (Tunisia). Tolerable Weekly Intake% (TWI) values, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), were calculated based on the average metal concentration in fish and the average weekly fish consumption rate. Hg was accumulated mainly in fish and in Posidonia oceanica leaves. Hg in sediment ranged from 1.88 μg/kg dry weight (d.w.) to 7.48 μg/kg d.w., while it was between 0.32 μg/kg and 0.19 μg/kg in seawaters. Our study showed high concentration in Posidonia oceanica in S3 (plant = 16.76 ± 4.48 μg/kg d.w.) as compared to those in S4 sites (plant = 5.33 ± 0.05 μg/kg d.w.). Concentrations for S. aurata and S. salpa in the Rejiche area exceeded the EC 1881/2006 legislation with values of 1.9 mg/kg and 2.5 mg/kg, respectively, and consumers may be exposed to high concentrations of Hg that exceeds the EFSA. The results showed that the fish species should be constantly monitored due to their TWI% of 154.5% for S. aurata and 209.8% S. salpa respectively.
Evaluating the Effect of the Financial Status to the Mobility Customs
Authors: Pintér Gergő , Felde Imre
Published: May 2021

In this article, we explore the relationship between cellular phone data and housing prices in Budapest, Hungary. We determine mobility indicators from one months of Call Detail Records (CDR) data, while the property price data are used to characterize the socioeconomic status at the Capital of Hungary. First, we validated the proposed methodology by comparing the Home and Work locations estimation and the commuting patterns derived from the cellular network dataset with reports of the national mini census. We investigated the statistical relationships between mobile phone indicators, such as Radius of Gyration, the distance between Home and Work locations or the Entropy of visited cells, and measures of economic status based on housing prices. Our findings show that the mobility correlates significantly with the socioeconomic status. We performed Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on combined vectors of mobility indicators in order to characterize the dependence of mobility habits on socioeconomic status. The results of the PCA investigation showed remarkable correlation of housing prices and mobility customs.
Implicit, Formal, and Powerful Semantics in Geoinformation
Authors: Bordogna Gloria , Fugazza Cristiano , Tagliolato Acquaviva d’Aragona Paolo , Carrara Paola
Published: May 2021

Distinct, alternative forms of geosemantics, whose classification is often ill-defined, emerge in the management of geospatial information. This paper proposes a workflow to identify patterns in the different practices and methods dealing with geoinformation. From a meta-review of the state of the art in geosemantics, this paper first pinpoints “keywords” representing key concepts, challenges, methods, and technologies. Then, we illustrate several case studies, following the categorization into implicit, formal, and powerful (i.e., soft) semantics depending on the kind of their input. Finally, we associate the case studies with the previously identified keywords and compute their similarities in order to ascertain if distinguishing methodologies, techniques, and challenges can be related to the three distinct forms of semantics. The outcomes of the analysis sheds some light on the diverse methods and technologies that are more suited to model and deal with specific forms of geosemantics.
An Evaluation Model for Analyzing Robustness and Spatial Closeness of 3D Indoor Evacuation Networks
Authors: Niu Lei , Wang Zhiyong , Song Yiquan , Li Yi
Published: May 2021

Indoor evacuation efficiency heavily relies on the connectivity status of navigation networks. During disastrous situations, the spreading of hazards (e.g., fires, plumes) significantly influences indoor navigation networks’ status. Nevertheless, current research concentrates on utilizing classical statistical methods to analyze this status and lacks the flexibility to evaluate the increasingly disastrous scope’s influence. We propose an evaluation method combining 3D spatial geometric distance and topology for emergency evacuations to address this issue. Within this method, we offer a set of indices to describe the nodes’ status and the entire network under emergencies. These indices can help emergency responders quickly identify vulnerable nodes and areas in the network, facilitating the generation of evacuation plans and improving evacuation efficiency. We apply this method to analyze the fire evacuation efficiency and resilience of two experiment buildings’ indoor networks. Experimental results show a strong influence on the network’s spatial connectivity on the evacuation efficiency under disaster situations.
Variability of Amyloid Propensity in Imperfect Repeats of CsgA Protein of Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli
Authors: Szulc Natalia , Gąsior-Głogowska Marlena , Wojciechowski Jakub W. , Szefczyk Monika , Żak Andrzej M. , Burdukiewicz Michał , Kotulska Malgorzata
Published: May 2021

CsgA is an aggregating protein from bacterial biofilms, representing a class of functional amyloids. Its amyloid propensity is defined by five fragments (R1–R5) of the sequence, representing non-perfect repeats. Gate-keeper amino acid residues, specific to each fragment, define the fragment’s propensity for self-aggregation and aggregating characteristics of the whole protein. We study the self-aggregation and secondary structures of the repeat fragments of Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli and comparatively analyze their potential effects on these proteins in a bacterial biofilm. Using bioinformatics predictors, ATR-FTIR and FT-Raman spectroscopy techniques, circular dichroism, and transmission electron microscopy, we confirmed self-aggregation of R1, R3, R5 fragments, as previously reported for Escherichia coli, however, with different temporal characteristics for each species. We also observed aggregation propensities of R4 fragment of Salmonella enterica that is different than that of Escherichia coli. Our studies showed that amyloid structures of CsgA repeats are more easily formed and more durable in Salmonella enterica than those in Escherichia coli.
Cardiovascular Disorders Triggered by Obstructive Sleep Apnea—A Focus on Endothelium and Blood Components
Authors: Mochol Jakub , Gawrys Jakub , Gajecki Damian , Szahidewicz-Krupska Ewa , Martynowicz Helena , Doroszko Adrian
Published: May 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is known to be an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Among arousal from sleep, increased thoracic pressure and enhanced sympathetic activation, intermittent hypoxia is now considered as one of the most important pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to the development of endothelial dysfunction. Nevertheless, not much is known about blood components, which justifies the current review. This review focuses on molecular mechanisms triggered by sleep apnea. The recurrent periods of hypoxemia followed by reoxygenation promote reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and increase inflammatory response. In this review paper we also intend to summarize the effect of treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on changes in the profile of the endothelial function and its subsequent potential clinical advantage in lowering cardiovascular risk in other comorbidities such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, hypertension, atrial fibrillation. Moreover, this paper is aimed at explaining how the presence of OSA may affect platelet function and exert effects on rheological activity of erythrocytes, which could also be the key to explaining an increased risk of stroke.
Alzheimer’s Disease Associated Presenilin 1 and 2 Genes Dysregulation in Neonatal Lymphocytes Following Perinatal Asphyxia
Authors: Tarkowska Agata , Furmaga-Jabłońska Wanda , Bogucki Jacek , Kocki Janusz , Pluta Ryszard
Published: May 2021

Perinatal asphyxia is mainly a brain disease leading to the development of neurodegeneration, in which a number of peripheral lesions have been identified; however, little is known about the expression of key genes involved in amyloid production by peripheral cells, such as lymphocytes, during the development of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. We analyzed the gene expression of the amyloid protein precursor, β-secretase, presenilin 1 and 2 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α by RT-PCR in the lymphocytes of post-asphyxia and control neonates. In all examined periods after asphyxia, decreased expression of the genes of the amyloid protein precursor, β-secretase and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α was noted in lymphocytes. Conversely, expression of presenilin 1 and 2 genes decreased on days 1–7 and 8–14 but increased after survival for more than 15 days. We believe that the expression of presenilin genes in lymphocytes could be a potential biomarker to determine the severity of the post-asphyxia neurodegeneration or to identify the underlying factors for brain neurodegeneration and get information about the time they occurred. This appears to be the first worldwide data on the role of the presenilin 1 and 2 genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease in the dysregulation of neonatal lymphocytes after perinatal asphyxia.
Interaction between Galectin-3 and Integrins Mediates Cell-Matrix Adhesion in Endothelial Cells and Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sedlář Antonín , Trávníčková Martina , Bojarová Pavla , Vlachová Miluše , Slámová Kristýna , Křen Vladimír , Bačáková Lucie
Published: May 2021

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a β-galactoside-binding protein that influences various cell functions, including cell adhesion. We focused on the role of Gal-3 as an extracellular ligand mediating cell-matrix adhesion. We used human adipose tissue-derived stem cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells that are promising for vascular tissue engineering. We found that these cells naturally contained Gal-3 on their surface and inside the cells. Moreover, they were able to associate with exogenous Gal-3 added to the culture medium. This association was reduced with a β-galactoside LacdiNAc (GalNAcβ1,4GlcNAc), a selective ligand of Gal-3, which binds to the carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) in the Gal-3 molecule. This ligand was also able to detach Gal-3 newly associated with cells but not Gal-3 naturally present on cells. In addition, Gal-3 preadsorbed on plastic surfaces acted as an adhesion ligand for both cell types, and the cell adhesion was resistant to blocking with LacdiNAc. This result suggests that the adhesion was mediated by a binding site different from the CRD. The blocking of integrin adhesion receptors on cells with specific antibodies revealed that the cell adhesion to the preadsorbed Gal-3 was mediated, at least partially, by β1 and αV integrins—namely α5β1, αVβ3, and αVβ1 integrins.
Vitamin D Deficiency in Testicular Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schepisi Giuseppe , Gianni Caterina , Bleve Sara , De Padova Silvia , Menna Cecilia , Lolli Cristian , Filograna Alessia , Conteduca Vincenza , Urbini Milena , Gallà Valentina , Casadei Chiara , Rosti Giovanni , De Giorgi Ugo
Published: May 2021

Testicular cancer (TC) is the most frequent tumor in young males. In the vast majority of cases, it is a curable disease; therefore, very often patients experience a long survival, also due to their young age at diagnosis. In the last decades, the role of the vitamin D deficiency related to orchiectomy has become an increasingly debated topic. Indeed, vitamin D is essential in bone metabolism and many other metabolic pathways, so its deficiency could lead to various metabolic disorders especially in long-term TC survivors. In our article, we report data from studies that evaluated the incidence of hypovitaminosis D in TC survivors compared with cohorts of healthy peers and we discuss molecular mechanisms and clinical implications.
Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 by Peptide YD1 Attenuates Inflammatory Symptoms through Suppression of TLR4/MYyD88/NF-κB Signaling Cascade
Authors: Rahman Md Saifur , Alam Md Badrul , Kim Young Kyun , Madina Mst Hur , Fliss Ismail , Lee Sang Han , Yoo Jin Cheol
Published: May 2021

In this study, we investigate the immunomodulatory effects of a novel antimicrobial peptide, YD1, isolated from Kimchi, in both in vitro and in vivo models. We establish that YD1 exerts its anti-inflammatory effects via up-regulation of the Nrf2 pathway, resulting in the production of HO-1, which suppresses activation of the NF-κB pathway, including the subsequent proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. We also found that YD1 robustly suppresses nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production by down-regulating the expression of the upstream genes, iNOS and COX-2, acting as a strong antioxidant. Collectively, YD1 exhibits vigorous anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, presenting it as an interesting potential therapeutic agent.
Ischemia-Reperfusion Injuries Assessment during Pancreas Preservation
Authors: Prudhomme Thomas , Mulvey John F. , Young Liam A. J. , Mesnard Benoit , Lo Faro Maria Letizia , Ogbemudia Ann Etohan , Dengu Fungai , Friend Peter J. , Ploeg Rutger , Hunter James P. , Branchereau Julien
Published: May 2021

Maintaining organ viability between donation and transplantation is of critical importance for optimal graft function and survival. To date in pancreas transplantation, static cold storage (SCS) is the most widely practiced method of organ preservation. The first experiments in ex vivo perfusion of the pancreas were performed at the beginning of the 20th century. These perfusions led to organ oedema, hemorrhage, and venous congestion after revascularization. Despite these early hurdles, a number of factors now favor the use of perfusion during preservation: the encouraging results of HMP in kidney transplantation, the development of new perfusion solutions, and the development of organ perfusion machines for the lung, heart, kidneys and liver. This has led to a resurgence of research in machine perfusion for whole organ pancreas preservation. This review highlights the ischemia-reperfusion injuries assessment during ex vivo pancreas perfusion, both for assessment in pre-clinical experimental models as well for future use in the clinic. We evaluated perfusion dynamics, oedema assessment, especially by impedance analysis and MRI, whole organ oxygen consumption, tissue oxygen tension, metabolite concentrations in tissue and perfusate, mitochondrial respiration, cell death, especially by histology, total cell free DNA, caspase activation, and exocrine and endocrine assessment.
Combination of Modified Atmosphere and Irradiation for the Phytosanitary Disinfestation of Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae)
Authors: Zhao Qing-Ying , Li Tian-Xiu , Song Zi-Jiao , Sun Tao , Liu Bo , Han Xin , Li Zhi-Hong , Zhan Guo-Ping
Published: May 2021

The khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium Everts, is defined as one of the most important quarantine pests globally, and fumigation with methyl bromide, an ozone-depleting substance, is a common phytosanitary measure currently used. The modified atmosphere (MA), irradiation, and their combination treatments of T. granarium larvae and adults were performed at room temperature (24–26 ℃) to develop an ecofriendly phytosanitary disinfestation measure and to shorten the exposure time and overcome treatment disadvantages of irradiation. Late-stage larvae are determined as the most tolerant stage resulted in large LT99.9968 values of 32.6 (29.2–37.5) and 38.0 (35.1–41.7) days treated under 1% and 2% O2 (with N2 balance) atmosphere, respectively. Ionizing radiation was used to enhance the effect of MA and the mortality was highly significantly affected by all the interaction effects, indicating that the synergistic effects present in all the combined treatments. The synergistic ratios, which is defined as the estimated lethal time for MA treatment (LD90, LD99, and LD99.9968), divided by that of combined treatment, were between 1.47 and 2.47. In the confirmatory tests, no individuals recovered from a sum of 111,366 late-stage larvae treated under 1% O2 atmosphere for 14- or 15-d after 200 Gy irradiation, which resulted in validating the probit estimations and achieving an efficacy of 99.9973% mortality at 95% confidence level. Therefore, these treatment schedules are recommended to disinfest T. granarium infecting commodities for phytosanitary purposes under the warehouse, MA packaging, or in combination with international transportation by train or sea container.
Unusual Application of Insect-Related Evidence in Two European Unsolved Murders
Authors: Introna Francesco , Cattaneo Cristina , Mazzarelli Debora , De Micco Francesco , Campobasso Carlo Pietro
Published: May 2021

Insect-related evidence must be considered of probative value just as bloodstains, fingerprints, fibers, or any other materials. Such evidence if properly collected and analyzed can also provide useful details in the reopening of old unsolved murders, also called “cold cases”. This paper presents the case of two murders that occurred in two different European countries and remained unsolved for years. The remains of a girl found in Italy 17 years after her disappearance helped to solve a murder that occurred in Britain 8 years prior. The cases were unexpectedly linked together because of the similarities in the ritualistic placing of strands of hair and connections with the suspect. The trace evidence relating to insects and hairs played a relevant role in the conviction of the perpetrator. In Italy, the defense raised the doubt that the strands of hair found nearby the skeletal remains could be the result of insect feeding activity and not the result of a cut by sharp objects. Therefore, it was fundamental to distinguish between sharp force lesions and insect feeding activity on hair. This unusual application of insect-related evidence clearly emphasizes the importance of an appropriate professional collection and analysis of any physical evidence that could be of robust probative value.
The State of the Art about Etiopathogenetic Models on Breast Implant Associated–Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A Narrative Review
Authors: Cuomo Roberto
Published: May 2021

Background: Breast-implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare malignancy linked to texturized breast implants. Although many researchers focus on its etiopathogenesis, this topic is affected by a lack of evidence. Materials and Methods: A literature review about BIA-ALCL was made. Results and conclusions: Although the incidence is reported between 1:355–1:30,000, there is great attention to BIA-ALCL. The incidence is uncertain due to many reasons. It may well be lower, due to inclusion in multiple databases as pointed out by the FDA and undiagnosed cases. The role of chronic inflammation, bacterial contamination, and mechanical forces was discussed. Clarification is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying the progression of alterations and mutations for BIA-ALCL; new molecular analysis and pathogenetic models should be investigated.
Prevalence of Use of Preventive Services in Poland: Result from a Population-Based Nationwide Study
Authors: Agrawal Siddarth , Gołębiowska Justyna , Makuch Sebastian , Mazur Grzegorz
Published: May 2021

Systematic reviews of scientific evidence have identified clinical services that prevent or ameliorate illness and reduce mortality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of all recommended evidence-based preventive services in a publicly funded healthcare setting. We conducted a population-based nationwide cross-sectional computer-assisted telephone survey of 1000 Polish adults (response rate 42%). The self-reported use of all recommended clinical preventive services was assessed, including mammography, colonoscopy, blood glucose screening, vaccination, blood pressure screening, and preventive counselling. The results showed that only 6.4% of adults had received all recommended preventive screening, whereas only 4.3% had received appropriate counselling. General practitioner (GP) visits, blood pressure screening, blood glucose screening, and cervical smear were among the most commonly provisioned interventions, while flu vaccination, PSA assessment, and preventive counselling were among the least prevalent services. Despite the low uptake of preventive interventions, over 75% is interested in remote access to preventive services using telemedicine platforms and e-consultations. Our findings suggest that there are significant gaps in the receipt of preventive interventions. Further improvements require not only changes in the incentive system for healthcare providers, but also system-level innovation such as telemedicine solutions to deliver preventive services remotely and engage individuals in the monitoring process.
Assessment of the Association of COPD and Asthma with In-Hospital Mortality in Patients with COVID-19. A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression Analysis
Authors: Reyes Felix M. , Hache-Marliere Manuel , Karamanis Dimitris , Berto Cesar G. , Estrada Rodolfo , Langston Matthew , Ntaios George , Gulani Perminder , Shah Chirag D. , Palaiodimos Leonidas
Published: May 2021

Together, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma account for the most common non-infectious respiratory pathologies. Conflicting preliminary studies have shown varied effect for COPD and asthma as prognostic factors for mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to explore the association of COPD and asthma with in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19 by systematically reviewing and synthesizing with a meta-analysis the available observational studies. MEDLINE, Scopus, and medRxiv databases were reviewed. A random-effects model meta-analysis was used, and I-square was utilized to assess for heterogeneity. In-hospital mortality was defined as the primary endpoint. Sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were performed. Thirty studies with 21,309 patients were included in this meta-analysis (1465 with COPD and 633 with asthma). Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with COPD had higher risk of death compared to those without COPD (OR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.79–2.93; I2 59.6%). No significant difference in in-hospital mortality was seen in patients with and without asthma (OR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.68–1.10; I2 0.0%). The likelihood of death was significantly higher in patients with COPD that were hospitalized with COVID-19 compared to patients without COPD. Further studies are needed to assess whether this association is independent or not. No significant difference was demonstrated in COVID-19-related mortality between patients with and without asthma.
Rapid Assessment of Non-Verbal Auditory Perception in Normal-Hearing Participants and Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Pralus Agathe , Hermann Ruben , Cholvy Fanny , Aguera Pierre-Emmanuel , Moulin Annie , Barone Pascal , Grimault Nicolas , Truy Eric , Tillmann Barbara , Caclin Anne
Published: May 2021

In the case of hearing loss, cochlear implants (CI) allow for the restoration of hearing. Despite the advantages of CIs for speech perception, CI users still complain about their poor perception of their auditory environment. Aiming to assess non-verbal auditory perception in CI users, we developed five listening tests. These tests measure pitch change detection, pitch direction identification, pitch short-term memory, auditory stream segregation, and emotional prosody recognition, along with perceived intensity ratings. In order to test the potential benefit of visual cues for pitch processing, the three pitch tests included half of the trials with visual indications to perform the task. We tested 10 normal-hearing (NH) participants with material being presented as original and vocoded sounds, and 10 post-lingually deaf CI users. With the vocoded sounds, the NH participants had reduced scores for the detection of small pitch differences, and reduced emotion recognition and streaming abilities compared to the original sounds. Similarly, the CI users had deficits for small differences in the pitch change detection task and emotion recognition, as well as a decreased streaming capacity. Overall, this assessment allows for the rapid detection of specific patterns of non-verbal auditory perception deficits. The current findings also open new perspectives about how to enhance pitch perception capacities using visual cues.
Anti-Phosphatidylserine/Prothrombin Antibodies in Healthy Women with Unexplained Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Pleguezuelo Daniel E. , Cabrera-Marante Oscar , Abad Magdalena , Rodriguez-Frias Edgard Alfonso , Naranjo Laura , Vazquez Alicia , Villar Olga , Gil-Etayo Francisco Javier , Serrano Manuel , Perez-Rivilla Alfredo , de la Fuente-Bitaine Laura , Serrano Antonio
Published: May 2021

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects up to 6% of couples. Although chromosomal aberrations of the embryos are considered the leading cause, 50% of cases remain unexplained. Antiphospholipid Syndrome is a known cause in a few cases. Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) anticardiolipin, anti-Beta-2-Glycoprotein-I and Lupus Anticoagulant (criteria aPL) are recommended studies in RPL workup. We tested healthy women with unexplained RPL for criteria aPL and anti-Phosphatidylserine/Prothrombin antibodies (aPS/PT). Patients were classified into three groups according to the number and pregnancy week of RPL: Extra-Criteria (EC), with 2 miscarriages, Early Miscarriage (EM), with ≥3 before pregnancy at week 10 and Fetal Loss (FL), with ≥1 fetal death from pregnancy at week 10. Circulating criteria aPL were absent in 98.1% of EM, 90.9% of FL and 96.6% of EC groups. In contrast, aPS/PT were positive in 15.4% of EM, 15.1% of FL, 16.6% of EC patients and 2.9% in controls. aPS/PT posed a risk for RPL, with an odds ratio of 5.96 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.85–19.13. p = 0.002) for EM, 7.28 (95% CI: 2.07–25.56. p = 0.002) for FL and 6.56. (95% CI: 1.77–24.29. p = 0.004) for EC. A successful live birth was achieved in all pregnant patients positive for aPS/PT who received treatment with heparin, aspirin and/or hydroxychloroquine.
Profiles of Frailty among Older People Users of a Home-Based Primary Care Service in an Urban Area of Barcelona (Spain): An Observational Study and Cluster Analysis
Authors: Zamora-Sánchez Juan-José , Zabaleta-del-Olmo Edurne , Fernández-Bertolín Sergio , Gea-Caballero Vicente , Julián-Rochina Iván , Pérez-Tortajada Gemma , Amblàs-Novellas Jordi
Published: May 2021

Background: The multidimensional assessment of frailty allows stratifying it into degrees; however, there is still heterogeneity in the characteristics of people in each stratum. The aim of this study was to identify frailty profiles of older people users of a home-based primary care service. Methods: We carried out an observational study from January 2018 to January 2021. Participants were all people cared for a home-based primary care service. We performed a cluster analysis by applying a k-means clustering technique. Cluster labeling was determined with the 22 variables of the Frail-VIG index, age, and sex. We computed multiple indexes to assess the optimal number of clusters, and this was selected based on a clinical assessment of the best options. Results: Four hundred and twelve participants were clustered into six profiles. Three of these profiles corresponded to a moderate frailty degree, two to a severe frailty degree and one to a mild frailty degree. In addition, almost 75% of the participants were clustered into three profiles which corresponded to mild and moderate degree of frailty. Conclusions: Different profiles were found within the same degree of frailty. Knowledge of these profiles can be useful in developing strategies tailored to these differentiated care needs.
Importance of Increased Arterial Resistance in Risk Prediction in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Degenerative Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Baran Jakub , Kleczyński Paweł , Niewiara Łukasz , Podolec Jakub , Badacz Rafał , Gackowski Andrzej , Pieniążek Piotr , Legutko Jacek , Żmudka Krzysztof , Przewłocki Tadeusz , Kabłak-Ziembicka Anna
Published: May 2021

Background: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of heart failure (HF) and major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE). Objective: To evaluate impact of vascular resistance on HF and MACCE incidence in subjects with cardiovascular risk factors (CRF) and degenerative aortic valve stenosis (DAS). Methods: From January 2016 to December 2018, in 404 patients with cardiovascular disease, including 267 patients with moderate-to-severe DAS and 137 patients with CRF, mean values of resistive index (RI) and pulsatile index (PI) were obtained from carotid and vertebral arteries. Patients were followed-up for 2.5 years, for primary outcome of HF and MACCE episodes. Results: RI and PI values in patients with DAS compared to CRF were significantly higher, with optimal cut-offs discriminating arterial resistance of ≥0.7 for RI (sensitivity: 80.5%, specificity: 78.8%) and ≥1.3 for PI (sensitivity: 81.3%, specificity: 79.6%). Age, female gender, diabetes, and DAS were all independently associated with increased resistance. During the follow-up period, 68 (16.8%) episodes of HF-MACCE occurred. High RI (odds ratio 1.25, 95% CI 1.13–1.37) and PI (odds ratio 1.21, 95% CI 1.10–1.34) were associated with risk of HF-MACCE. Conclusions: An accurate assessment of vascular resistance may be used for HF-MACCE risk stratification in patients with DAS.