bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Past, Present, and Future of Pandemics: Preparedness and First Defences
Authors: Stannard Robin
Published: January 2023

As expected, debate and expert discussion at the 32nd European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease (ECCMID) in April 2022 was set to the backdrop of COVID-19, focusing on the lessons learnt throughout the pandemic and looking to mitigating risks of future pandemics. In a session on the third day of ECCMID 2022, specialists took a holistic view, presenting evidence and testimony on past pandemics alongside a look to the future, emphasising the value of pandemic preparedness and first-line defences. Nicholas Grassly, Vaccine Epidemiology Research Group (VERG), Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, UK, drew parallels between the polio pandemic of the past and COVID-19 in regard to the impact on populations and response of the scientific community. Nicola Petrosillo, National Institute for Infectious Diseases (INMI) Lazzaro Spallanzani, Rome, Italy, discussed the impact of COVID-19 on influenza prevalence, highlighting challenges arising from co-infections with two increasingly endemic viruses.
Chronic Kidney Disease – Where Next? Predicting Outcomes and Planning Care Pathways
Authors: Marks Angharad , Fluck Nicholas , Black Corri
Published: January 2023

With the introduction of the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative chronic kidney disease (CKD) guidelines, CKD has been identified as common, particularly in the elderly. The outcomes for those with CKD can be poor: mortality, initiation of renal replacement therapy, and progressive deterioration in kidney function, with its associated complications. In young people with CKD, the risk of poor outcome is high and the social cost substantial, but the actual number of patients affected is relatively small. In the elderly, the risk of poor outcome is substantially lower, but due to the high prevalence of CKD the actual number of poor outcomes attributable to CKD is higher. Predicting which patients are at greatest risk, and being able to tailor care appropriately, has significant potential benefits. Risk prediction models in CKD are being developed and show promise but thus far have limitations. In this review we describe the pathway for developing and evaluating risk prediction tools, and consider what models we have for CKD prediction and where next.
The Multidisciplinary Approach to Renal Denervation: Current Evidences and Open Questions
Authors: Samoni Sara , Sartori Marco , Scalzotto Elisa , Brocca Alessandra , Guggia Silvia , Ramponi Francesco , Neri Mauro , Armignacco Paolo , Maria Virzì Grazia , Rodighiero Maria Pia , Ronco Claudio
Published: January 2023

Renal denervation (RD) is a new clinical procedure which aims to treat resistant hypertensive patients. As with every new technology introduced into the clinical setting, many aspects were not explored sufficiently in order to be implemented into routine clinical practice. Advances in clinical technology require different steps of development, which start from preliminary in vitro experiments and finally arrive in the market, available for physicians when they have been proven to produce benefits for patients. Each stage usually takes many years before acquiring consensus from specialists involved in specific fields. In our opinion, this is a long and blind way and is a disadvantage to patients who need rapid, specific, and effective treatments. Otherwise, a multidisciplinary approach can provide the right evaluation of RD position and its potential for clinical application and research development. Therefore, we decided to draw a well-structured literature review from different specialists’ points of view in order to cover the subject in a translational manner. We reported animal models and experimental trials, in chronological order, and their evidences which have created the basis for human research. Technologies and devices were compared to underlined advantages and disadvantages. An update of clinical data was considered to define clinical needs in order to build focused trials. Furthermore, we evaluate the feasibility of routine RD clinical use by means of an economic analysis. Finally, we tried to settle the main unresolved questions and then assessed future RD perspectives, including non-hypertension indications.
Improving The Management of Non-dystrophic Myotonia to Benefit Care Delivery and Improve Patient Outcomes
Authors: Roberts Eleanor
Published: January 2023

Non-dystrophic myotonias (NDM) are rare muscle disorders caused by mutations in skeletal voltage-gated muscle channels leading to delayed muscle relaxation after voluntary contraction. They are subdivided into sodium channelopathies, when the mutation is in the SCN4A gene, and chloride channelopathies, when the mutation is in the CLCN1 gene. Symptoms, which may differ according to subtype, exacerbating factors, and over disease course, can include muscle stiffness, pain, fatigue, muscle hypertrophy, myalgia, and weakness. The severity of NDM symptoms varies widely, from being barely noticeable to causing considerable disability that impacts health-related quality of life. People with NDM may remain undiagnosed for several years, potentially due to a lack of awareness of NDM among many healthcare professionals. The symptomatic treatment for NDM predominantly involves sodium channel blockers, such as mexiletine. Randomised, placebo-controlled trials have shown mexiletine can reduce muscle stiffness and pain, and improve health-related quality of life. Patient and clinician surveys, as well as national guidelines, place this medication as one of the first choices for pharmaceutical treatment of myotonia. Other choices include lamotrigine, carbamazepine, acetazolamide, ranolazine, and flecainide, though clinical evidence is limited, and all are used on an off-label basis. Herein, the challenges in recognising and treating myotonia symptoms in people with NDM are reviewed, along with strategies to increase awareness of the disease and its potential treatment.
Current Essentials in Inflammatory Myopathies
Authors: Breithaupt Maren , Schmidt Jens
Published: January 2023

Inflammatory myopathies are a heterogeneous group of acquired systemic diseases, which include dermatomyositis (DM), polymyositis (PM), necrotising myopathy (NM) and inclusion body myositis (IBM). All four disease entities share certain clinical characteristics, such as progressive muscle weakness and elevated muscle enzymes. Other characteristic-associated features such as skin involvement in DM or the detection of myositis-specific antibodies, may be indicative of a particular subtype. However, muscle biopsy is still essential for the diagnosis and shows distinct histopathological characteristics for each subtype of myositis. Treatment of inflammatory myopathies is still based on clinical experience, since placebo-controlled trials are scarce. While DM, PM and NM respond well to immunosuppressive treatment, IBM is usually resistant to immunotherapy. This review aims to give a concise overview and provide guidance for general management of myositis.
Neuropsychiatric Features of Parkinson’s disease with Cognitive Impairment: An Overview
Authors: Javeed Mehran , Leroi Iracema
Published: January 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is known to cause neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). It has been established that the more advanced the motor stage of PD is, the more frequent and severe the NPS may be. However, the relationship between NPS and stage of cognitive decline is less well understood. This is important because the majority of people with PD will experience some degree of cognitive decline during the course of their disease, and there is a high risk of developing dementia (PDD). In non-PD populations there is a strong association between NPS and cognitive impairment and the same association may apply in PD. Consequently, the aim of this article is to provide a brief overview of NPS in PD from the perspective of stage of cognitive decline. We highlight studies that have demonstrated the increasing prevalence and severity of NPS with increasing cognitive impairment in PD. We point out the importance of apathy as a possible precursor to PDD. We also describe the negative impact of NPS and cognitive impairment on caregiver distress and quality of life. Finally, we have summarised findings from key studies of cognitive enhancers in PDD which have examined the effect of these treatments on NPS.
Depression and Psychological Distress as Risk Factors for Stroke and Worse Stroke Recovery: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Options
Authors: Sander Kerstin , Sander Dirk
Published: January 2023

Stroke and depression have a strong bidirectional association: on the one hand, depression and psychosocial distress are well known risk factors for stroke; on the other hand, stroke is known to be a strong risk factor for depression. In the first 2 years after a stroke approximately one-third of patients suffer from a post-stroke depression (PSD). PSD aggravates the burden of physical, psychological, and social disability after stroke, and hinders patient participation in rehabilitation. PSD is associated with a poorer outcome and increased mortality. For the treatment of PSD, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were recommended. Interestingly, SSRIs also have positive effects on motor recovery in stroke patients even without depression, but may increase vascular risk.
A Scarlet Enemy of the Brain – A Practical Approach to Diagnosis and Management of Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: Yin Lim Sue , Evans Amlyn , Mihalova Tatiana
Published: January 2023

We present two cases of elderly patients admitted with neurological dysfunction due to isolated focal cortical subarachnoid bleeding and intracerebral lobar haemorrhage, respectively. We discuss the distinguishing features in their clinical and radiological presentations which led to their diagnosis of probable cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). In the hope of encouraging thoughtful learning, we have designed a series of case-based questions with accompanying answers to explain the investigative pathways and management strategies in suspected cases of CAA.
Oligodendrogenesis After Cerebral Ischaemia and Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Gang Zhang Zheng , Chopp Michael
Published: January 2023

Stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) damage white and grey matter. Loss of oligodendrocytes and their myelin, impairs axonal function. Remyelination involves oligodendrogenesis during which new myelinating oligodendrocytes are generated by differentiated oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). This article briefly reviews the processes of oligodendrogenesis in adult rodent brains, and promising experimental therapies targeting the neurovascular unit that reduce oligodendrocyte damage and amplify endogenous oligodendrogenesis after stroke and TBI.
Общая устойчивость сварных двутавровых балок с поперечно-гофрированной стенкой
Authors: МАКЕЕВ Сергей Александрович , СИЛИНА Наталья Геннадьевна , КРАСОТИНА Лариса Владимировна , СТУПИН Михаил Александрович
Published: January 2023

В отечественных нормах по стальным конструкциям регламентирован апробированный расчет двутавровых балок с плоской стенкой на общую устойчивость, где используется параметр "момент инерции сечения балки при свободном кручении". Однако балки с поперечно-гофрированной стенкой, далее гофробалки, имеют переменные по длине сечения, что не позволяет использовать напрямую термин "момент инерции сечения" применительно к данному типу конструкций. Поэтому использование методики в этом нормативном документе для расчета гофробалок на общую устойчивость без определенных обоснований и доказательств некорректно. Авторы предлагают при расчете гофробалок на общую устойчивость согласно данному нормативу рассчитывать эквивалентную двутавровую балку с плоской стенкой, обладающую равной с гофробалкой несущей способностью по критерию "общая устойчивость". Предлагаемая методика апробирована авторами при расчетах ряда гофробалок с синусоидальным и треугольным профилем гофр с различными способами загружения, схемами закрепления балок и раскрепления сжатого пояса. Адекватность методики частично подтверждена экспериментально.
TÜRKİYE’DE AFET YÖNETİMİ VE AFETLERDE TEKNOLOJİ KULLANIMININ ÖNEMİ
Authors: CEREN Adem
Published: January 2023

Türkiye’nin afet yönetimine ilişkin teşkilat yapısını, temel politikalarını, önceliklerini ve afetlerde teknoloji kullanımını ele alan bu çalışmada; yönetim, afet, teknoloji ve afet teknolojileri kavramı kısaca açıklanmış, ardından afetlerle mücadelede Türkiye’nin afet politikalarındaki değişime-dönüşüme ve önceliklerine değinilmiştir.

Çalışmanın amacı, Türkiye’de afetlerle mücadeledeki yapısal-işlevsel dönüşümü ve bu süreçte teknolojinin yerini ve önemini açıklamaya çalışmaktır. Çalışmada kullanılan veriler, nitel araştırma yöntemleri arasına yer alan metin analizi tekniğiyle elde edilmiştir.

Çalışmada, Türkiye’nin afetlerle mücadelede yaşadığı acı deneyimlerden önemli dersler çıkardığı, bu doğrultuda afetlerle mücadelede yapısal, işlevsel ve zihniyet dönüşümü hedeflendiği görülmüştür. Afet anına odaklanan geleneksel afet yönetimi yaklaşımından uzaklaşılarak, risk odaklı bütünleşik afet yönetimi anlayışına doğru bir geçiş yaşandığı, bu süreçte teknolojinin önemli katkılar sunduğu ve yeni teknolojilerin kullanılmasının da hayati öneme sahip olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır.
Rethinking Participation: Benefits from Reflective Assessment
Authors: Springer Mark
Published: January 2023

Student participation has been an important goal for many Political Science faculty in the classroom environment. Pre and post COVID, participation has been a challenge to measure and effectively gauge as a successful tool for student learning. Based on a Faculty Learning Community Workshop that examined increasing participation in the classroom, this paper proposes that faculty rethink how they measure participation, allowing students to actively assess their participation with faculty input.
Factors related to steroid treatment responsiveness in thyroid eye disease patients and application of SHAP for feature analysis with XGBoost
Authors: Park Jungyul , Kim Jaehyun , Ryu Dongman , Choi Hee-young
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The primary treatment for active thyroid eye disease (TED) is immunosuppressive therapy with intravenous steroids. In this study, we attempted to predict responsiveness to steroid treatment in TED patients using eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). Factors associated with steroid responsiveness were also statistically evaluated.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and laboratory results of 89 patients with TED who received steroid treatment were retrospectively reviewed. XGBoost was used to explore responsiveness to steroid treatment, and the diagnostic performance was evaluated. Factors contributing to the model output were investigated using the SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP), and the treatment response was investigated statistically using SPSS software.

Results

The eXtra Gradient Boost model showed high performance, with an excellent accuracy of 0.861. Thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol had the highest impact on the model. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that less extraocular muscle limitation and high TSI levels were associated with a high risk of poor intravenous methylprednisolone treatment response. As a result of analysis through SHAP, TSH, TSI, and LDL had the highest impact on the XGBoost model

Conclusion

TSI, extraocular muscle limitation, and LDL cholesterol levels may be useful in predicting steroid treatment response in patients with TED. In terms of machine learning, XGBoost showed relatively robust and reliable results for small datasets. The machine-learning model can assist in decision-making for further treatment of patients with TED.
The impact of prolonged, maternal iodine exposure in early gestation on neonatal thyroid function
Authors: Mathews Divya M. , Peart Jane M. , Sim Robert G. , O’Sullivan Susannah , Derraik José G. B. , Heather Natasha L. , Webster Dianne , Johnson Neil P. , Hofman Paul L.
Published: January 2023

Context

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) using oil-soluble contrast medium (OSCM) improves pregnancy rates but results in severe and persistent iodine excess, potentially impacting the fetus and neonate.

Objective

To determine the incidence of thyroid dysfunction in newborns conceived within six months of OSCM HSG.

Design

Offspring study of a prospective cohort of women who underwent OSCM HSG.

Setting

Auckland region, New Zealand (2020-2022)

Participants

Offspring from the SELFI (Safety and Efficacy of Lipiodol in Fertility Investigations) study cohort (n=57).

Measurements

All newborns had a dried blood spot card for TSH measurement 48 hours after birth as part of New Zealand’s Newborn Metabolic Screening Programme. Forty-one neonates also had a heel prick serum sample at one week to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3). Maternal urine iodine concentration (UIC) and TSH in the six months after OSCM HSG were retrieved from the SELFI study for analyses.

Primary outcome

Incidence of hypothyroidism in the neonatal period.

Results

There was no evidence of primary hypothyroidism on newborn screening (TSH 2-10 mIU/L). All neonates tested at one week had normal serum TSH, FT4, and FT3 levels. However, increasing maternal peak UIC levels during pregnancy were associated with lower TSH levels (p= 0.006), although also associated with lower FT4 levels (p=0.032).

Conclusions

While pre-conceptional OSCM HSG in women did not result in neonatal hypothyroidism, gestational iodine excess was associated with a paradoxical lowering of neonatal TSH levels despite lower FT4 levels. These changes likely reflect alterations in deiodinase activity in the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary axis from iodine excess.

Trial registration

https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12620000738921, identifier 12620000738921.
Regulators involved in trophoblast syncytialization in the placenta of intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Zhou Hanjing , Zhao Chenqiong , Wang Peixin , Yang Weijie , Zhu Haiyan , Zhang Songying
Published: January 2023

Placental dysfunction refers to the insufficiency of placental perfusion and chronic hypoxia during early pregnancy, which impairs placental function and causes inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, affecting fetal development and health. Fetal intrauterine growth restriction, one of the most common outcomes of pregnancy-induced hypertensions, can be caused by placental dysfunction, resulting from deficient trophoblast syncytialization, inadequate trophoblast invasion and impaired vascular remodeling. During placental development, cytotrophoblasts fuse to form a multinucleated syncytia barrier, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to meet the metabolic demands for fetal growth. A reduction in the cell fusion index and the number of nuclei in the syncytiotrophoblast are found in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR, suggesting that the occurrence of IUGR may be related to inadequate trophoblast syncytialization. During the multiple processes of trophoblasts syncytialization, specific proteins and several signaling pathways are involved in coordinating these events and regulating placental function. In addition, epigenetic modifications, cell metabolism, senescence, and autophagy are also involved. Study findings have indicated several abnormally expressed syncytialization-related proteins and signaling pathways in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR, suggesting that these elements may play a crucial role in the occurrence of IUGR. In this review, we discuss the regulators of trophoblast syncytialization and their abnormal expression in the placentas of pregnancies complicated by IUGR.
The exon-skipping oligonucleotide, KitStop, depletes tissue-resident mast cells in vivo to ameliorate anaphylaxis
Authors: Hedgespeth Barry A. , Snider Douglas B. , Bitting Katie J. , Cruse Glenn
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Anaphylaxis represents the most extreme and life-threatening form of allergic disease and is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Additionally, some people with mastocytosis experience recurrent episodes of anaphylaxis during normal daily activities without exposure to known triggers. While acute therapy consists primarily of epinephrine and supportive care, chronic therapy relies mostly on desensitization and immunotherapy against the offending allergen, which is a time-consuming and sometimes unsuccessful process. These treatments also necessitate identification of the triggering allergen which is not always possible, and thus highlighting a need for alternative treatments for mast cell-mediated diseases.

Methods

The exon-skipping oligonucleotide KitStop was administered to mice intradermally, intraperitoneally, or systemically at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg. Local mast cell numbers were enumerated via peritoneal lavage or skin histology, and passive systemic anaphylaxis was induced to evaluate KitStop’s global systemic effect. A complete blood count and biochemistry panel were performed to assess the risk of acute toxicity following KitStop administration.

Results

Here, we report the use of an exon-skipping oligonucleotide, which we have previously termed KitStop, to safely reduce the severity and duration of the anaphylactic response via mast cell depopulation in tissues. KitStop administration results in the integration of a premature stop codon within the mRNA transcript of the KIT receptor—a receptor tyrosine kinase found primarily on mast cells and whose gain-of-function mutation can lead to systemic mastocytosis. Following either local or systemic KitStop treatment, mice had significantly reduced mast cell numbers in the skin and peritoneum. In addition, KitStop-treated mice experienced a significantly diminished anaphylactic response using a model of passive systemic anaphylaxis when compared with control mice.

Discussion

KitStop treatment results in a significant reduction in systemic mast cell responses, thus offering the potential to serve as a powerful additional treatment modality for patients that suffer from anaphylaxis.
SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein enhances the oncolytic activity of the vesicular stomatitis virus
Authors: Alkayyal Almohanad A. , Ajina Reham , Cacciabue Marco , Alkayyal Aaesha A. , Saeedi Nizar H. , Hussain Alshehry Taofik , Kaboha Feras , Alotaibi Mohammed A. , Zaidan Nada , Shah Khalid , Alroqi Fayhan , Bakur Mahmoud Ahmad
Published: January 2023

Despite recent advances in the research on oncolytic viruses (OVs), a better understanding of how to enhance their replication is key to improving their therapeutic index. Understanding viral replication is important to improve treatment outcomes based on enhanced viral spreading within the tumor milieu. The VSV-Δ51 oncolytic virus has been widely used as an anticancer agent with a high selectivity profile. In this study, we examined the role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) in enhancing VSV-Δ51 viral production and oncolytic activity. To test this hypothesis, we first generated a novel VSV-Δ51 mutant that encoded the SARS-COV-2 RBD and compared viral spreading and viral yield between VSV-Δ51-RBD and VSV-Δ51 in vitro. Using the viral plaque assay, we demonstrated that the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 RBD in the VSV-Δ51 genome is associated with a significantly larger viral plaque surface area and significantly higher virus titers. Subsequently, using an ATP release-based assay, we demonstrated that the SARS-CoV-2 RBD could enhance VSV-Δ51 oncolytic activity in vitro. This observation was further supported using the B16F10 tumor model. These findings highlighted a novel use of the SARS-CoV-2 RBD as an anticancer agent.
Female reproductive tract-organ axes
Authors: Takada Kazuhide , Melnikov Vyacheslav G. , Kobayashi Ryoki , Komine-Aizawa Shihoko , Tsuji Noriko M. , Hayakawa Satoshi
Published: January 2023

The female reproductive tract (FRT) and remote/versatile organs in the body share bidirectional communication. In this review, we discuss the framework of the “FRT-organ axes.” Each axis, namely, the vagina-gut axis, uterus-gut axis, ovary-gut axis, vagina-bladder axis, vagina-oral axis, uterus-oral axis, vagina-brain axis, uterus-brain axis, and vagina-joint axis, is comprehensively discussed separately. Each axis could be involved in the pathogenesis of not only gynecological diseases but also diseases occurring apart from the FRT. Although the microbiota is clearly a key player in the FRT-organ axes, more quantitative insight into the homeostasis of the microbiota could be provided by host function measurements rather than current microbe-centric approaches. Therefore, investigation of the FRT-organ axes would provide us with a multicentric approach, including immune, neural, endocrine, and metabolic aspects, for understanding the homeostatic mechanism of women’s bodies. The framework of the FRT-organ axes could also provide insights into finding new therapeutic approaches to maintain women’s health.
Treatment for a B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient carrying a rare TP53 c.C275T mutation: A case report
Authors: Wang Runan , Wang Wenliang , Liu Xuan , Wang Huan , Zhang Bin , Li Shuang , Zhang Haining , Yang Jiawei , Zhao Jishun , He Qiuying , Zhang Jihong , Liu Danping , Hao Liangchun
Published: January 2023

TP53 mutations are associated with poor prognosis in the vast majority of cancers. In this study, we present a pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) patient carrying a rare TP53 c.C275T mutation. This extremely rare mutation affects an amino acid residue located between the TAD domain and the DNA-binding domain of p53. The patient was resistant to most conventional chemotherapy regimens and remained minimal residual disease (MRD)-positive after five rounds of such regimens. We tested the sensitivity of the patient’s leukemic cells to 21 anti-cancer drugs by performing in vitro drug sensitivity assays. The results showed that bortezomib had a very strong killing effect on the patient’s leukemic cells. Therefore, we subsequently treated the patient with bortezomib combined with vindesine, cytarabine, and fludarabine. After one course of treatment, the patient became MRD-negative, and there was no recurrence during a 9-month follow-up. In conclusion, our report suggests that the TP53 c.C275T mutation is associated with poor prognosis in B-ALL. Fortunately, bortezomib combined with chemotherapy could achieve a better therapeutic effect than conventional regimens in this type of ALL.
Biofortification to avoid malnutrition in humans in a changing climate: Enhancing micronutrient bioavailability in seed, tuber, and storage roots
Authors: Dwivedi Sangam L. , Garcia-Oliveira Ana Luísa , Govindaraj Mahalingam , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: January 2023

Malnutrition results in enormous socio-economic costs to the individual, their community, and the nation’s economy. The evidence suggests an overall negative impact of climate change on the agricultural productivity and nutritional quality of food crops. Producing more food with better nutritional quality, which is feasible, should be prioritized in crop improvement programs. Biofortification refers to developing micronutrient -dense cultivars through crossbreeding or genetic engineering. This review provides updates on nutrient acquisition, transport, and storage in plant organs; the cross-talk between macro- and micronutrients transport and signaling; nutrient profiling and spatial and temporal distribution; the putative and functionally characterized genes/single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with Fe, Zn, and β-carotene; and global efforts to breed nutrient-dense crops and map adoption of such crops globally. This article also includes an overview on the bioavailability, bioaccessibility, and bioactivity of nutrients as well as the molecular basis of nutrient transport and absorption in human. Over 400 minerals (Fe, Zn) and provitamin A-rich cultivars have been released in the Global South. Approximately 4.6 million households currently cultivate Zn-rich rice and wheat, while ~3 million households in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America benefit from Fe-rich beans, and 2.6 million people in sub-Saharan Africa and Brazil eat provitamin A-rich cassava. Furthermore, nutrient profiles can be improved through genetic engineering in an agronomically acceptable genetic background. The development of “Golden Rice” and provitamin A-rich dessert bananas and subsequent transfer of this trait into locally adapted cultivars are evident, with no significant change in nutritional profile, except for the trait incorporated. A greater understanding of nutrient transport and absorption may lead to the development of diet therapy for the betterment of human health.
The Olfactory System: It Smells Good To Be Alive
Authors: Axel Richard
Published: January 2023

The world around us is filled with odors (smells), some pleasant, calming, or bringing back memories; others stimulating, scary, or disgusting. How many odors do you think you can recognize? You might be surprised to know that humans can recognize hundreds of thousands of different odors—not an easy task to accomplish. So, how do we do it? In this article, we will smell our way through the olfactory system, look at the connections between the nose and the brain, and see how odors are processed in the brain to evoke unique responses.
Workplace evaluation of computer users of the medical university; an ergonomic perspective
Authors: Jamil Komal , Baqir Syeda Rida , Badar Shahid
Published: January 2023

Background: Computer usage in the workplace had started in 1950 for commercial purposes. The study of environmental factors in the people's workplace is known as ergonomics. It is used to adjust the working stations of people using standard protocol to reduce the stress that affects people physically while spending many hours a day in front of the computer at workplace. Objective: To ergonomically evaluate workplace environment of computer users of the medical university. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on computer users at Dr. Ziauddin University Karachi. The sample size was 100 and the sampling technique used was convenient. Ergonomic Workplace Evaluation questionnaire consisting of questions from an ergonomics perspective was used. The study duration was 6 months (from March 2019 to August 2019). Data was analyzed with aid from SPSS version 21. Results: Results showed that out of 100, 60% participants had problems with physical conditions at workplace with the environment, 69% had a problem with noise, (31% had problems with light due to letting it in during the day, 19% suffered due to equipment. Other 34% stated the cause to be the building number and 13% was due to room. Regarding postural problems, 66% had problems with working stations. The reason of absenteeism was 32% due to working posture, 30% was due to repetitive work, 21% was attributed to Lifting, and 17 % was due to other reasons regarding this perspective. In addition, 86% participants responded that their physical work environment contributes to absence due to illness. Conclusion: There is a significant effect of the workplace environment on the performance of computer users at the medical university.
Correlation of physical activity with step-length and step-width in healthy young adults
Authors: Ahmed Zeenia , Rasool Faiz , Mir Namra Nadeem
Published: January 2023

Background: Gait is one of the most complex neuromuscular phenomena which require perfect coordination between the brain, spine, and muscles. Due to the adverse effects of physical inactivity, physical activity is now considered as the biggest health issue of 21st century. Physical activity effects the gait parameters to variable extent, thus affecting the quality of life. International analyses showed a clear reduction in youth physical activity. Objectives: The purpose of our study was to identify the gait impairments present in the younger adults and modify their activity levels to avoid impairments and disability in later years of age. The objective was to determine the correlation between physical activity and step-length in healthy adults. Methods: Gait parameters were assessed in 40 individuals including both males and females. Subjects with any musculoskeletal conditions, neurological impairments and individuals those were unable to follow verbal commands were excluded. Outcomes measure included International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to access physical activity level and observational method to access gait parameters step length and step-width. The data was analyzed using SPSS 21 software. Results: Physical activity measured through the IPAQ and step-length through observational method showed no significant correlation of physical activity with step-length (p>0.05, r=0.226) and step width (p 0.37, r=-0.145). Conclusion: Change in physical activity levels does not have any impact on step length and step width.
Microstructure Evolution by Thermomechanical Processing in the Fe-10Al-12V Superalloy
Authors: Ferreirós Pedro A. , Becerra Abraham A. , Sterin Uriel A. , Ávalos Martina C. , Bolmaro Raúl E. , Rubiolo Gerardo H.
Published: January 2023

Nowadays, great efforts are being made to develop bcc-superalloys for medium- and high-temperature applications. However, the high brittle-to-ductile transition temperatures (BDTT) have restricted their application. Therefore, designing hot-processing routes to obtain a refined grain in these new superalloys is required. Particularly in the Fe-10Al-12V (at%) alloy, we have recently tested the BDTT shifting and, using physical models, it was indicated that a combination of L21-precipitate sizes with small grain sizes could shift the BDTT below room temperature. Here, we will present the study that allowed us to design the processing route for grain refinement in the tested superalloy. Molds of different geometry and with metallic and sand walls were used to test two different types of casting. Carbide conditioning treatments for improving the sizes and distribution were studied. The recrystallization process was explored first by hot rolling and post-annealing in stepped geometry samples with two different columnar grain orientations. Finally, we analyzed the grain microstructure obtained along a hot processing route consisting of carbide conditioning treatment, forging into a squared bar, and hot rolling up to a 2.8 mm thickness strip.
Early Onset Dystonia: Complaints about Executive Functioning, Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Coenen Maraike A. , Eggink Hendriekje , van der Stouwe A. M. Madelein , Spikman Jacoba M. , Tijssen Marina A. J.
Published: January 2023

Early Onset Dystonia (EOD) is thought to result from basal ganglia dysfunction, structures also involved in non-motor functions, like regulation of behavior, mood and anxiety. Problems in these domains have been found in proxy-reports but not yet in self-reports of EOD patients. The main questions are whether proxy-reports differ from those of patients and how problems relate to everyday social functioning. Subjective complaints about executive problems (BRIEF) and symptoms of depression and anxiety (CBCL) were obtained through a cross-sectional questionnaire study conducted on 45 EOD patients. Scores were in the normal range in patients and proxies. Proxy-rated behavior regulation was correlated with the estimated number of friends and quality of relations. Proxy-reported scores of depression correlated with the quality of relations and were higher than self-reports of adolescent/young adult patients. EOD patients and proxies do not seem to experience problematic regulation of behavior, mood and anxiety. Still, our study revealed two important aspects: (1) all measures were related to the estimated quality of relations with others, relating questionnaires to everyday social functioning; (2) proxies reported more symptoms of depression than patients. This may indicate overestimation by proxies or higher sensitivity of proxies to these symptoms, implying underestimation of problems by patients.
A Commentary on Electrographic Seizure Management and Clinical Outcomes in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Tran Lily , Welcher Rebecca , Scott Rodney
Published: January 2023

Continuous EEG (cEEG) monitoring is the gold standard for detecting electrographic seizures in critically ill children and the current consensus-based guidelines recommend urgent cEEG to detect electrographic seizures that would otherwise be undetected. The detection of seizures usually leads to the use of antiseizure medications, even though current evidence that treatment leads to important improvements in outcomes is limited, raising the question of whether the current strategies need re-evaluation. There is emerging evidence indicating that the presence of electrographic seizures is not associated with unfavorable neurological outcome, and thus treatment is unlikely to alter the outcomes in these children. However, a high seizure burden and electrographic status epilepticus is associated with unfavorable outcome and the treatment of status epilepticus is currently warranted. Ultimately, outcomes are more likely a function of etiology than of a direct effect of the seizures themselves. We suggest re-examining our current consensus toward aggressive treatment to abolish all electrographic seizures and recommend a tailored approach where therapeutic interventions are indicated when seizure burden breaches above a critical threshold that may be associated with adverse outcomes. Future studies should explicitly evaluate whether there is a positive impact of treating electrographic seizures or electrographic status epilepticus in order to justify continuing current approaches.
Modelling the Effects of Oyster Tables on Estuarine Tidal Flow
Authors: Guillou Nicolas
Published: January 2023

Oyster farming may impact the estuarine tidal circulation with a series of effects on environmental conditions and cultures’ growth. Hydrodynamic numerical models set up in estuaries integrated the presence of oyster structures by simply increasing the bottom friction coefficient over farming areas. However, for elevated oyster tables in tidal environments, such default calibration ignored the temporal variations of the friction coefficient between the conditions of submerged or unsubmerged structures. Thus, an original formulation of the Chézy coefficient was here proposed to integrate these modulations. Assessed against measured and predicted vertical velocity profiles on a 1/2 scaled model, this formulation was implemented in a simulation of the tidal circulation within the Aber Wrac’h estuary (Brittany, France). Particular attention was dedicated to the changes induced on the current magnitudes and sediment transport. Oyster tables were found to impact current magnitudes in the vicinity of elevated structures, with major differences at times of local peak flood and ebb. These modifications were characterised by (i) a reduction of current magnitudes over oyster farming areas and (ii) a tidal-flow acceleration on both sides of these structures. Increased sediment transport was, therefore, expected in the vicinity of these cultures, with potential implications on seabed morphology and water quality.
Zero-Optical-Distance Mini-LED Backlight with Cone-Shaped Light Coupling Microstructures
Authors: Lin Zibin , Jiang Haonan , Ye Daochun , Zhang Wenyan , Chen Enguo , Ye Yun , Xu Sheng , Yan Qun , Guo Tailiang
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a zero-optical-distance mini-LED backlight with cone-shaped light coupling microstructures to achieve an ultra-thin backlight architecture (~0.1 mm thickness) by combining the characteristics of direct-lit and edge-lit backlights. There is no gap between the light guide plate (LGP) and the reflector, as well as between the LGP and the mini-LED embedded in the reflector. The illuminance uniformity and light extraction efficiency (LEE) of the whole structure reach 91.47% and 77.09%, respectively. Nine sub-modules are spliced together to realize 2D local dimming with 0.29% crosstalk. The structure shows high optical performance while reducing the thickness of the backlight module, which is of great significance for the development of mini-LED backlights.
DNA Methylation as a Biomarker for Monitoring Disease Outcome in Patients with Hypovitaminosis and Neurological Disorders
Authors: Martínez-Iglesias Olaia , Naidoo Vinogran , Corzo Lola , Pego Rocío , Seoane Silvia , Rodríguez Susana , Alcaraz Margarita , Muñiz Adriana , Cacabelos Natalia , Cacabelos Ramón
Published: January 2023

DNA methylation remains an under-recognized diagnostic biomarker for several diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we examined differences in global DNA methylation (5mC) levels in serum samples from patients during the initial- and the follow-up visits. Each patient underwent a blood analysis and neuropsychological assessments. The analysis of 5mC levels revealed two categories of patients; Group A who, during the follow-up, had increased 5mC levels, and Group B who had decreased 5mC levels. Patients with low Fe-, folate-, and vitamin B12- levels during the initial visit showed increased levels of 5mC after treatment when assessed during the follow-up. During the follow-up, 5mC levels in Group A patients increased after treatment for hypovitaminosis with the nutraceutical compounds Animon Complex and MineraXin Plus. 5mC levels were maintained during the follow-up in Group A patients treated for neurological disorders with the bioproducts AtreMorine and NeoBrainine. There was a positive correlation between 5mC levels and MMSE scores, and an inverse correlation between 5mC and ADAS-Cog scores. This expected correlation was observed in Group A patients only. Our study appears to indicate that 5mC has a diagnostic value as a biomarker across different pathologies.
Coping as a Mediator and Moderator between Psychological Distress and Disordered Eating Behaviors and Weight Changes during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Machado Bárbara Cesar , Moreira Célia S. , Correia Marta , Veiga Elisa , Gonçalves Sónia
Published: January 2023

Previous research has already shown the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students’ well-being and mental health. Eating problems and weight gain due to changes in eating habits and physical activity experienced during this period have also been noticed. However, few studies have explored the role of students’ resources as used during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as coping strategies. This study aimed to (1) explore the associations among psychological distress, disordered eating, coping strategies, and weight changes; (2) examine the moderating role of coping strategies in the process of weight gain and weight loss; and (3) study the mediating role of coping strategies in the process of weight gain and weight loss. The participants in this study were 772 students at a Portuguese university. The data collected included sociodemographic data and three self-reported questionnaires (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale; Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire; Brief COPE) during the first few months of the pandemic, which included a 72-day full national lockdown. The results showed that depression, anxiety, stress, and disordered eating were related to increased weight. Guilt, denial, self-distraction, use of substances, and behavior disinvestment were also related to increased weight. Behavioral disinvestment had a strong mediating effect on weight gain. Additionally, planning, positive reframing, and acceptance all showed a moderating effect between psychological distress and weight changes. In conclusion, coping strategies allow for a better understanding of the mechanisms by which psychological distress and disordered eating were related to weight changes during the pandemic.
Detailed Speciation of Semi-Volatile and Intermediate-Volatility Organic Compounds (S/IVOCs) in Marine Fuel Oils Using GC × GC-MS
Authors: Tang Rongzhi , Song Kai , Gong Yuanzheng , Sheng Dezun , Zhang Yuan , Li Ang , Yan Shuyuan , Yan Shichao , Zhang Jingshun , Tan Yu , Guo Song
Published: January 2023

Ship emissions contribute substantial air pollutants when at berth. However, the complexity and diversity of the marine fuels utilized hinder our understanding and mapping of the characteristics of ship emissions. Herein, we applied GC × GC-MS to analyze the components of marine fuel oils. Owing to the high separation capacity of GC × GC-MS, 11 classes of organic compounds, including b-alkanes, alkenes, and cyclo-alkanes, which can hardly be resolved by traditional one-dimensional GC-MS, were detected. Significant differences are observed between light (-10# and 0#) and heavy (120# and 180#) fuels. Notably, -10# and 0# diesel fuels are more abundant in b-alkanes (44~49%), while in 120# and 180#, heavy fuels b-alkanes only account for 8%. Significant enhancement of naphthalene proportions is observed in heavy fuels (20%) compared to diesel fuels (2~3%). Hopanes are detected in all marine fuels and are especially abundant in heavy marine fuels. The volatility bins, one-dimensional volatility-based set (VBS), and two-dimensional VBS (volatility-polarity distributions) of marine fuel oils are investigated. Although IVOCs still take dominance (62–66%), the proportion of SVOCs in heavy marine fuels is largely enhanced, accounting for ~30% compared to 6~12% in diesel fuels. Furthermore, the SVOC/IVOC ratio could be applied to distinguish light and heavy marine fuel oils. The SVOC/IVOC ratios for -10# diesel fuel, 0# diesel fuel, 120# heavy marine fuel, and 180# heavy marine fuel are 0.085 ± 0.046, 0.168 ± 0.159, 0.504, and 0.439 ± 0.021, respectively. Our work provides detailed information on marine fuel compositions and could be further implemented in estimating organic emissions and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from marine fuel storage and evaporation processes.
Evaluation of Hermetic Storage Bags for the Preservation of Yellow Maize in Poultry Farms in Dormaa Ahenkro, Ghana
Authors: Opoku Bismark , Osekre Enoch Adjei , Opit George , Bosomtwe Augustine , Bingham Georgina V.
Published: January 2023

Using low-quality maize, resulting from insect pests and fungal attack, for formulating feed reduces chicken performance. This study evaluated the effectiveness of hermetic storage bags to keep insect pest and mycotoxin levels in check in yellow maize. The study was conducted in storehouses at three poultry farms in Dormaa Ahenkro, Bono Region, Ghana. The experiment was set up in a Randomized Complete Block Design with ZeroFly® Hermetic (ZFH), Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS), and Polypropylene (PP) bags as treatments. In each treatment, twelve 50 kg samples of untreated maize were each put in 100 kg capacity bags. Two bags in each treatment were destructively sampled monthly for 6 months. The number of insects was significantly higher in the PP bag (161.00 ± 4.25), compared to the PICS and ZFH bags: 7.00 ± 0.29 and 4.50 ± 0.76, respectively. The PICS and ZFH bags had less insect damage and lower weight loss than the PP bags. Aflatoxin and fumonisin levels were below the recommended safe thresholds of 15 ppb and 4 ppm, respectively, in all the bags. With the exception of ash, proximate analyses were higher for all variables in the PICS and ZFH bags. The study showed that PICS and ZFH bags conserved maize quality better than the PP bag.