bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Global Transcriptional Silencing on Cell Cycle Regulation and Chromosome Segregation in Early Mammalian Embryos
Authors: Anger Martin , Radonova Lenka , Horakova Adela , Sekach Diana , Charousova Marketa
Published: August 2021

The onset of an early development is, in mammals, characterized by profound changes of multiple aspects of cellular morphology and behavior. These are including, but not limited to, fertilization and the merging of parental genomes with a subsequent transition from the meiotic into the mitotic cycle, followed by global changes of chromatin epigenetic modifications, a gradual decrease in cell size and the initiation of gene expression from the newly formed embryonic genome. Some of these important, and sometimes also dramatic, changes are executed within the period during which the gene transcription is globally silenced or not progressed, and the regulation of most cellular activities, including those mentioned above, relies on controlled translation. It is known that the blastomeres within an early embryo are prone to chromosome segregation errors, which might, when affecting a significant proportion of a cell within the embryo, compromise its further development. In this review, we discuss how the absence of transcription affects the transition from the oocyte to the embryo and what impact global transcriptional silencing might have on the basic cell cycle and chromosome segregation controlling mechanisms.
Cappable-Seq Reveals Specific Patterns of Metabolism and Virulence for Salmonella Typhimurium Intracellular Survival within Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Balkin Alexander S. , Plotnikov Andrey O. , Gogoleva Natalia E. , Gogolev Yuri V. , Demchenko Kirill N. , Cherkasov Sergey V.
Published: August 2021

The bacterial pathogen Salmonella enterica, which causes enteritis, has a broad host range and extensive environmental longevity. In water and soil, Salmonella interacts with protozoa and multiplies inside their phagosomes. Although this relationship resembles that between Salmonella and mammalian phagocytes, the interaction mechanisms and bacterial genes involved are unclear. Here, we characterized global gene expression patterns of S. enterica serovar Typhimurium within Acanthamoeba castellanii at the early stage of infection by Cappable-Seq. Gene expression features of S. Typhimurium within A. castellanii were presented with downregulation of glycolysis-related, and upregulation of glyoxylate cycle-related genes. Expression of Salmonella Pathogenicity Island-1 (SPI-1), chemotaxis system, and flagellar apparatus genes was upregulated. Furthermore, expression of genes mediating oxidative stress response and iron uptake was upregulated within A. castellanii as well as within mammalian phagocytes. Hence, global S. Typhimurium gene expression patterns within A. castellanii help better understand the molecular mechanisms of Salmonella adaptation to an amoeba cell and intracellular persistence in protozoa inhabiting water and soil ecosystems.
Modeling and Structure Determination of Homo-Oligomeric Proteins: An Overview of Challenges and Current Approaches
Authors: Gaber Aljaž , Pavšič Miha
Published: August 2021

Protein homo-oligomerization is a very common phenomenon, and approximately half of proteins form homo-oligomeric assemblies composed of identical subunits. The vast majority of such assemblies possess internal symmetry which can be either exploited to help or poses challenges during structure determination. Moreover, aspects of symmetry are critical in the modeling of protein homo-oligomers either by docking or by homology-based approaches. Here, we first provide a brief overview of the nature of protein homo-oligomerization. Next, we describe how the symmetry of homo-oligomers is addressed by crystallographic and non-crystallographic symmetry operations, and how biologically relevant intermolecular interactions can be deciphered from the ordered array of molecules within protein crystals. Additionally, we describe the most important aspects of protein homo-oligomerization in structure determination by NMR. Finally, we give an overview of approaches aimed at modeling homo-oligomers using computational methods that specifically address their internal symmetry and allow the incorporation of other experimental data as spatial restraints to achieve higher model reliability.
CSBD Healing in Rats after Application of Bovine Xenogeneic Biomaterial Enriched with Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Jerbić Radetić Ana Terezija , Zoričić Cvek Sanja , Tomas Matej , Erjavec Igor , Oguić Matko , Perić Kačarević Željka , Cvijanović Peloza Olga
Published: August 2021

Xenogeneic biomaterials Cerbone® and OsteoBiol® are widely used in oral implantology. In dental practice, xenogeneic biomaterial is usually combined with autologous bone to provide bone volume stability needed for long-term dental implants. Magnesium alloy implants dissolve and form mineral corrosion layer that is directly in contact with bone tissue, allowing deposition of the newly formed bone. CSBD heals by intramembranous ossification and therefore is a convenient model for analyses of ostoconductive and osteoinductive properties of different type of biomaterials. Magnesium alloy-enriched biomaterials have not yet been applied in oral implantology. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate biological properties of potentially new bovine xenogeneic biomaterial enriched with magnesium alloy in a 5 mm CSBD model. Osteoconductive properties of Cerabone®, Cerabone® + Al. bone, and OsteoBiol® were also analyzed. Dynamics of bone healing was followed up on the days 3, 7, 15, 21, and 30. Calvary bone samples were analyzed by micro-CT, and values of the bone morphometric parameters were assessed. Bone samples were further processed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Histological observation revealed CSBD closure at day 30 of the given xenogeneic biomaterial groups, with the exception of the control group. TNF-α showed high intensity of expression at the sites of MSC clusters that underwent ossification. Osx was expressed in pre-osteoblasts, which were differentiated into mature osteoblasts and osteocytes. Results of the micro-CT analyses showed linear increase in bone volume of all xenogeneic biomaterial groups and also in the control. The highest average values of bone volume were found for the Cerabone® + Mg group. In addition, less residual biomaterial was estimated in the Cerabone® + Mg group than in the Cerabone® group, indicating its better biodegradation during CSBD healing. Overall, the magnesium alloy xenogeneic biomaterial demonstrated key properties of osteoinduction and biodegradidibility during CSBD healing, which is the reason why it should be recommended for application in clinical practice of oral implantology.
The Expectations of the Residents of Szczecin in the Field of Telematics Solutions after the Launch of the Szczecin Metropolitan Railway
Authors: Barczak Agnieszka
Published: August 2021

Transport is integral to every city, having a crucial impact on its functioning and development. As road infrastructure does not keep up to speed with the constantly growing numbers of vehicles on roads, new solutions are required. Fast urban railway systems are a solution that can reduce transport congestion, with environmental protection issues also taken into account. Contemporary public transport cannot function without modern communication and information technologies. The use of telematics in public transport allows passenger mobility to be sustainable and efficient. Therefore, it seems justified to conduct research on this issue. The aim of the study is to analyze the perception of the use of telematics solutions to service SKM in Szczecin (Poland) with the use of multivariate correspondence analysis. Results of the research indicate that people living in the area of gravity of the SKM have a positive opinion on the application of telematics solutions in the activities of the Szczecin Metropolitan Railway. The results obtained are local in nature, but show the direction that researchers can take in analyzing public transport in other agglomerations. In addition, the article presents a tool that greatly facilitates the analysis of survey data, even with a large number of results.
Exploring the Role of Cognition in the Annual Fall Migration of the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)
Authors: Gegear Robert J.
Published: August 2021

Each fall, monarch butterflies in eastern North America undergo an extraordinary long-distance migration to wintering areas in central Mexico, where they remain until returning northward in the spring. Migrants survive the overwintering period by metabolizing lipid reserves accumulated exclusively though floral nectar; however, there is little known about how individuals maximize foraging efficiency in the face of floral environments that constantly change in complex and unpredictable ways along their migratory route. Here, a proboscis extension paradigm is used to investigate the role of cognition during the foraging phase of monarch migration. Male and female migratory butterflies were consecutively trained to discriminate between two color and odor cues and then tested for their ability to simultaneously retain the information on the reward value of each cue in memory without reinforcement over a period of 7 days. To gain further insight into cognitive abilities of monarchs as a migratory species, a second set of captive-reared males and females were tested under harnessed conditions at the same time as wild-caught fall migrants. Results showed that male and female migrants can learn the reward properties of color and odor cues with over 75% accuracy after less than 40 s of exposure and can simultaneously retain visual and olfactory information predicting the availability of floral rewards in memory without reinforcement for at least 7 days. Captive-reared male butterflies also showed the ability to retain visual and olfactory information in long-term memory for 7 days; however, 80% of captive-reared females could not retain color cues in long-term memory for more than 24 h. These novel findings are consistent with the view that monarch butterflies, as a migratory species, have enhancements to long-term memory that enable them to minimize the amount of time and energy wasted searching for suitable nectar sources during their annual fall migration, thereby optimizing migratory performance and increasing the chance of overwinter survival. The possibility that female monarchs undergo a seasonal change in visual long-term memory warrants further empirical investigation.
Predictive Model of Good Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Prospective, Multicenter Observational Study Conducted by the Korean Cardiac Arrest Research Consortium
Authors: Beom Jin , Park Incheol , You Je , Roh Yun , Kim Min , Park Yoo ,   on behalf of the Korean Cardiac Arrest Research Consortium (KoCARC) Investigators
Published: August 2021

This observational study aimed to develop novel nomograms that predict the benefits of coronary angiography (CAG) after resuscitating patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) regardless of the electrocardiography findings and to perform an external validation of these models. Data were extracted from a prospective, multicenter registry of resuscitated patients with OHCA (October 2015–June 2018). New nomograms were developed based on variables associated with survival discharge and neurologic outcomes; their analysis included 723 and 709 patients, respectively. Patient age (p < 0.001), prehospital defibrillation by emergency medical technicians (EMTs) (p = 0.003), prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) (p = 0.02), and time from collapse to ROSC (p < 0.001) were associated with survival discharge. Patient age (p < 0.001), prehospital defibrillation by EMTs (p < 0.001), and time from collapse to ROSC (p < 0.001) were associated with neurologic outcomes. The new nomogram had a good predictive performance, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.8832 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8358–0.9305) for survival discharge and an AUC of 0.9048 (95% CI: 0.8627–0.9469) for neurologic outcomes. Novel nomograms that predict survival discharge and good neurological outcomes after CAG in patients with OHCA were developed and validated; they can be quickly and easily applied to identify patients who will benefit from CAG.
Longer Leukocytes Telomere Length Predicts a Significant Survival Advantage in the Elderly TRELONG Cohort, with Short Physical Performance Battery Score and Years of Education as Main Determinants for Telomere Elongation
Authors: Pavanello Sofia , Campisi Manuela , Grassi Alberto , Mastrangelo Giuseppe , Durante Elisabetta , Veronesi Arianna , Gallucci Maurizio
Published: August 2021

Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) represents a key integrating component of the cumulative effects of environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors. A question, however, remains on whether LTL can be considered predictive for a longer and healthier life. Within the elderly prospective TRELONG cohort (n = 612), we aimed to investigate LTL as a predictor of longevity and identify the main determinants of LTL among many different factors (physiological and lifestyle characteristics, physical performance and frailty measures, chronic diseases, biochemical measurements and apolipoprotein E genotyping). We found an ever-increasing relationship between LTL quartiles and survival. Hazard ratio analysis showed that for each unit increase in LTL and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores, the mortality risk was reduced by 22.41% and 8.78%, respectively. Conversely, male gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and age threatened survival, with mortality risk growing by 74.99%, 16.57% and 8.5%, respectively. Determinants of LTL elongation were SPPB scores (OR = 1.1542; p = 0.0066) and years of education (OR = 1.0958; p = 0.0065), while male gender (OR = 0.4388; p =  0.0143) and increased Disease Count Index (OR = 0.6912; p  =  0.0066) were determinants of LTL attrition. Longer LTL predicts a significant survival advantage in elderly people. By identifying determinants of LTL elongation, we provided additional knowledge that could offer a potential translation into prevention strategies.
Imaging Tests in the Early Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Prieto-Peña Diana , Castañeda Santos , Martínez-Rodríguez Isabel , Atienza-Mateo Belén , Blanco Ricardo , González-Gay Miguel A.
Published: August 2021

Early recognition of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is crucial to avoid the development of ischemic vascular complications, such as blindness. The classic approach to making the diagnosis of GCA is based on a positive temporal artery biopsy, which is among the criteria proposed by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) in 1990 to classify a patient as having GCA. However, imaging techniques, particularly ultrasound (US) of the temporal arteries, are increasingly being considered as an alternative for the diagnosis of GCA. Recent recommendations from the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) for the use of imaging techniques for large vessel vasculitis (LVV) included US as the first imaging option for the diagnosis of GCA. Furthermore, although the ACR classification criteria are useful in identifying patients with the classic cranial pattern of GCA, they are often inadequate in identifying GCA patients who have the extracranial phenotype of LVV. In this sense, the advent of other imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT, has made it possible to detect the presence of extracranial involvement of the LVV in patients with GCA presenting as refractory rheumatic polymyalgia without cranial ischemic manifestations. Imaging techniques have been the key elements in redefining the diagnostic work-up of GCA. US is currently considered the main imaging modality to improve the early diagnosis of GCA.
Total Tumor Diameter and Unilateral Multifocality as Independent Predictor Factors for Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma
Authors: Hîțu Liviu , Ștefan Paul-Andrei , Piciu Doina
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess whether total tumor diameter (TTD) and multifocality are predictors for metastatic disease in papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMC). Eighty-two patients with histologically proven PTMC were retrospectively included. Patients were divided according to the presence of metastatic disease in the metastatic (n = 41) and non-metastatic (n = 41) demographic-matched group. The morphological features of PTMCs (primary tumor diameter, multifocality, TTD, number of foci, and tumor site) were compared between groups using univariate, multivariate, and receiver operating characteristic analyses. TTD (p = 0.026), TTD > 10 mm (p = 0.036), and Unilateral Multifocality (UM) (p = 0.019) statistically differed between the groups. The combination of the two independent predictors (TTD and UM) was able to assess metastatic risk with 60.98% sensitivity and 75.61% specificity. TTD and UM can be used to predict metastatic disease in PTMC, which may help to better adapt the RAI therapy decision. We believe that TTD and multifocality are tumor features that should be considered in future guidelines.
Adverse Events of Percutaneous Microaxial Left Ventricular Assist Devices—A Retrospective, Single-Centre Cohort Study
Authors: Zaiser Anna S. , Fahrni Gregor , Hollinger Alexa , Knobel Demian T. , Bovey Yann , Zellweger Núria M. , Buser Andreas , Santer David , Pargger Hans , Gebhard Caroline E. , Siegemund Martin
Published: August 2021

Worldwide, the left ventricular assist device Impella® (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) is increasingly implanted in patients with acute cardiogenic shock or undergoing high-risk cardiac interventions. Despite its long history of use, few studies have assessed its safety and possible complications associated with its use. All patients treated with a left-sided Impella® device at the University Hospital of Basel from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2019 were enrolled. The primary endpoint was the composite rate of mortality and adverse events (bleeding, acute kidney injury, and limb ischemia). Out of 281 included patients, at least one adverse event was present in 262 patients (93%). Rates of in-hospital, 90-day, and one-year mortality were 48%, 47%, and 50%, respectively. BARC type 3 bleeding (62%) and hemolysis (41.6%) were the most common complications. AKI was observed in 50% of all patients. Renal replacement therapy was required in 97 (35%) of all patients. Limb ischemia occurred in 13% of cases. Bleeding and hemolysis are common Impella®-associated complications. Additionally, we found a high rate of AKI. A careful selection of patients receiving microaxial LV support and defining the indication for its use are essential measures to be taken for the benefits to outweigh potential complications.
Dyslipidemia Management in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease. Data from the POLASPIRE Survey
Authors: Jankowski Piotr , Kozieł Paweł , Setny Małgorzata , Paniczko Marlena , Haberka Maciej , Banach Maciej , De Bacquer Dirk , De Backer Guy , Kotseva Kornelia , Wood David , Gąsior Zbigniew , Kamiński Karol , Kosior Dariusz , Pająk Andrzej
Published: August 2021

Lipid-lowering in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is related to a lower risk of cardiovascular events. We evaluated factors related to the management of hypercholesterolemia in patients with established CAD. Patients were interviewed 6–18 months after hospitalization for an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or a myocardial revascularization procedure. Statins were prescribed at discharge to 94.4% of patients, while 68.1% of the patients hospitalized for an ACS were prescribed a high-dose statin. Hospitalization in a teaching hospital, percutaneous coronary intervention, cholesterol measurement during hospitalization and the male sex were related to prescription of statins at discharge. The intensity of lipid-lowering therapy in the post-discharge period increased in 17.3%, decreased in 11.7%, and did not change in 71.0% of the patients. The prescription of a lipid-lowering drug (LLD) at discharge (odds ratio 5.88 [95% confidence intervals 3.05–11.34]) and a consultation with a cardiologist (2.48 [1.51–4.08]) were related to the use of LLDs, while age (1.32 [1.10–1.59] per 10 years), loneliness (0.42 [0.19–0.94]), professional activity (1.56 [1.13–2.16]), and diabetes (1.66 [1.27–2.16]) were related to achieving an LDL cholesterol goal 6–18 months after discharge. In conclusion, health-system-related factors are associated with the LLD utilization, whereas mainly patient-related factors are related to the control of hypercholesterolemia following hospitalization for CAD.
Multielectrode Radiofrequency Ablation for Resectable Metachronous Liver Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Cheng Hou-Ying , Huang Kai-Wen , Liang Jin-Tung , Lin Been-Ren , Huang John , Hung Ji-Shiang , Chen Chi-Ling
Published: August 2021

The outcome of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for liver metastases from colorectal cancer (CRLM) has been thought to be inferior to metastasectomy. However, the recent development of multielectrode RFA (multi-RFA) systems has made the ablation zone larger and more complete. Thus, we assessed the survival benefits of this modality in cases of metachronous CRLM. This retrospective study assessed patients diagnosed with resectable metachronous CRLM between 2013 and 2016; 132 patients were categorized by treatment for liver metastases: multi-RFA (n = 68), hepatectomy (n = 34), or systemic treatment only (n = 30). Therapeutic effectiveness, outcomes, and intervention-related complications were compared between groups. Median overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and intrahepatic recurrence-free survival (IHRFS) were 69.8, 85.2, and 59.7 months for the hepatectomy group; 53.4, 41.3, and 32.3 months for the multi-RFA group; and 19.1, 7.1, and 7.1 months for the systemic treatment group. No significant differences were observed between the multi-RFA and hepatectomy groups after a median follow-up of 59.8 months. This study demonstrated that multi-RFA and hepatectomy provide similar survival benefits for patients with resectable CRLM. Multi-RFA may represent a reliable treatment option for the management of resectable liver metastases.
Determinants of Prolonged Length of Hospital Stay of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Vîjan Ancuța Elena , Daha Ioana Cristina , Delcea Caterina , Dan Gheorghe-Andrei
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: The increasing prevalence and high hospitalization rates make atrial fibrillation (AF) a significant healthcare strain. However, there are limited data regarding the length of hospital stay (LOS) of AF patients. Our purpose was to determine the main drivers of extended LOS of AF patients. Methods: All AF patients, hospitalized consecutively in a tertiary cardiology center, from January 2018 to February 2020 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Readmissions were excluded. Prolonged LOS was defined as more than seven days (the upper limit of the third quartile). Results: Our study included 949 AF patients, 52.9% females. The mean age was 72.5 ± 10.3 years. The median LOS was 4 days. A total of 28.7% had an extended LOS. Further, 82.9% patients had heart failure (HF). In multivariable analysis, the independent predictors of extended LOS were: acute coronary syndromes (ACS) (HR 4.60, 95% CI 1.66–12.69), infections (HR 2.61, 95% CI 1.44–3.23), NT-proBNP > 1986 ng/mL (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.37–2.82), acute decompensated HF (ADHF) (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.23–2.51), HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) (HR 1.69, 95% CI 1.15–2.47) and the HAS-BLED score (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.14–1.78). Conclusion: ACS, ADHF, HFrEF, increased NT-proBNP levels, infections and elevated HAS-BLED were independent predictors of extended LOS, while specific clinical or therapeutical AF characteristics were not.
Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells in Patients with MGUS and Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Knight Andrea , Rihova Lucie , Kralova Romana , Penka Miroslav , Adam Zdenek , Pour Ludek , Piskacek Martin , Hajek Roman
Published: August 2021

Background: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) play prominent roles in mediating innate and adaptive immune responses. However, it is unclear how pDCs contribute to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment described in multiple myeloma (MM). Methods: Newly diagnosed myeloma patients (MM, n = 37) were analyzed to determine the pDC counts in comparison to peripheral blood (PB, n = 53) and bone marrow (BM, n = 10) samples of age-matched healthy donors (HD) using flow cytometry. Second, proliferation of myeloma tumor cells in the presence of freshly isolated pDCs was examined. Third, production of IFNα by pDCs co-cultured with MM cells was determined by intracellular staining. Results: We found a highly significant reduction of circulating pDCs (p < 0.0001) and in bone marrow (p < 0.0001) of MM patients compared to HD. We also observed a significant decrease of pDCs (p = 0.004) in BM in patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS, n = 12). Importantly, we determined that pDCs promote proliferation specifically of MM cells and not the stromal cells and that pDCs secrete IFNα upon co-culture with MM tumor cells. Conclusions: Our results show altered pDC frequencies in the BM microenvironment in MGUS and MM patients at diagnosis. We showed the tumor-promoting function of pDCs that may mediate immune deficiencies affecting long-term disease control and treatment outcome.
Markers of Inflammation and Vascular Parameters in Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (Ulipristal Acetate)-Treated Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Szydłowska Iwona , Grabowska Marta , Nawrocka-Rutkowska Jolanta , Kram Andrzej , Piasecka Małgorzata , Starczewski Andrzej
Published: August 2021

The exact mechanism of selective progesterone receptor modulator action in leiomyoma still challenges researchers. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of ulipristal acetate (UPA) on immunoexpression of inflammatory markers and vascularization in fibroids. UPA-treated patients were divided into three groups: (1) good response (≥25% reduction in volume of fibroid), (2) weak response (insignificant volume reduction), (3) and no response to treatment (no decrease or increase in fibroid volume). The percentage of TGFβ, IL6, IL10, CD117, and CD68-positive cells were significantly lower in the group with a good response to treatment vs. the control group. Moreover, the percentage of IL10 and CD68-positive cells in the group with a good response to treatment were also significantly lower compared to the no response group. Additionally, a significant decrease in the percentage of IL10-positive cells was found in the good response group vs. the weak response group. There were no statistical differences in the percentage of TNFα-positive cells and vessel parameters between all compared groups. The results of the study indicate that a good response to UPA treatment may be associated with a decrease of inflammatory markers, but it does not influence myoma vascularization.
Cytomegalovirus-Associated Autoantibody against TAF9 Protein in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Chen Yen-Fu , Hsieh Ao-Ho , Wang Lian-Chin , Yu Kuang-Hui , Kuo Chang-Fu
Published: August 2021

Background: Evidence indicates a causal link between cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and the triggering of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Animal studies have revealed that CMV phosphoprotein 65 (pp65) induces autoantibodies against nuclear materials and causes the autoantibody attack of glomeruli. IgG eluted from the glomeruli of CMVpp65-peptide-immunized mice exhibited cross-reactivity against dsDNA and TATA-box-binding protein associated factor 9 (TAF9). Whether the elevation of anti-TAF9 IgG is associated with anti-CMV reactivity in human lupus remains unclear. Methods: The sera from patients with rheumatic diseases, including ankylosing spondylitis (AS), gout, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and Sjögren syndrome (SS) were examined using ELISA for antibodies of CMV, CMVpp65, and TAF9. Results: In total, 83.8% of the rheumatic patients had acquired CMV infections. The SLE patients had a high prevalence of anti-CMV IgM. The highest seropositivity rates for anti-HCMVpp65 and anti-TAF9 IgG were observed in the SLE patients. Purified anti-CMVpp65 IgG from CMVpp65/TAF9 dual-positive SLE sera reacted to both TAF9 and dsDNA. An increased prevalence of proteinuria and low hemoglobin levels were found in CMV IgG- and CMVpp65 IgG-positive SLE patients. Conclusions: This observation suggests that immunity to CMVpp65 is associated with cross-reactivity with TAF9 and dsDNA and that it is involved in the development of clinical manifestations in SLE.
Serum Amphiregulin and Heparin-Binding Epidermal Growth Factor as Biomarkers in Patients with Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy
Authors: Hanata Norio , Nagafuchi Yasuo , Sugimori Yusuke , Kobayashi Satomi , Tsuchida Yumi , Iwasaki Yukiko , Shoda Hirofumi , Fujio Keishi
Published: August 2021

Background. The epidermal growth factors amphiregulin (AREG) and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) are implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases, but their clinical and pathological roles in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) are unclear. Methods. Serum AREG and HB-EGF levels were measured by ELISA in patients with IIM (n = 37), systemic sclerosis (n = 17), and rheumatoid arthritis (n = 10), and for seven age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). Associations between serum AREG or HB-EGF levels and the clinical parameters were analyzed. Results. Serum AREG levels in IIM patients were significantly elevated compared to those in HCs (median, 20.7 and 10.7 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.025). In particular, serum AREG levels in IIM patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) were higher than those of HCs (22.4 pg/mL, p = 0.027). The disease duration in patients with elevated serum AREG levels was significantly shorter compared to those who had normal serum AREG levels (7 and 21 months, respectively; p = 0.0012). Serum HB-EGF levels were significantly increased in IIM patients with elevated CK levels (136.2 pg/mL; p = 0.020) and patients with anti-Mi-2 antibody (183.7 pg/mL; p = 0.045) compared to those in HCs (74.9 pg/mL). Conclusion. These results suggested that AREG could be a promising biomarker associated with early-phase IIM-related ILD, and that HB-EGF expression was associated with muscle injury and regeneration in IIM.
Statin Use Can Attenuate the Decline in Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and the Incidence of Cardiomyopathy in Cardiotoxic Chemotherapy Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Jean , Nishimura Yoshito , Kewcharoen Jakrin , Yess James
Published: August 2021

There is insufficient evidence about the cardioprotective effects of statins against chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched from inception to March 2021 for studies that reported the mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before and after chemotherapy and the incidence of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in patients who received concurrent statin therapy and those who received chemotherapy alone. A random effects meta-analysis was performed to obtain the pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) for the mean final LVEF and the mean LVEF change, and the pooled odds ratio (OR) and the 95% CI of the incidence of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. Seven studies with 3042 patients were included in this meta-analysis (statin group: 1382 patients received concurrent statin with chemotherapy; control group: 1660 patients received chemotherapy alone). Patients in the control group had a more significant decline in LVEF (WMD = −6.08%, 95% CI: −8.55 to −3.61, p < 0.001) compared to those in the statin group. Additionally, the statin group had a significantly lower incidence of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy compared to the control group (OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.28–0.60, p < 0.001). Consequently, our study showed a significant reduction in the incidence of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy and the degree of LVEF decline in patients in the statin group compared to those in the control group.
Perspectives on Precision Medicine in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Targeting Recurrent Mutations—NOTCH1, SF3B1, MYD88, BIRC3
Authors: Putowski Maciej , Giannopoulos Krzysztof
Published: August 2021

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is highly heterogeneous, with extremely variable clinical course. The clinical heterogeneity of CLL reflects differences in the biology of the disease, including chromosomal alterations, specific immunophenotypic patterns and serum markers. The application of next-generation sequencing techniques has demonstrated the high genetic and epigenetic heterogeneity in CLL. The novel mutations could be pharmacologically targeted for individualized approach in some of the CLL patients. Potential neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 1 (NOTCH1) signalling targeting mechanisms in CLL include secretase inhibitors and specific antibodies to block NOTCH ligand/receptor interactions. In vitro studies characterizing the effect of the splicing inhibitors resulted in increased apoptosis of CLL cells regardless of splicing factor 3B subunit 1 (SF3B1) status. Several therapeutic strategies have been also proposed to directly or indirectly inhibit the toll-like receptor/myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (TLR/MyD88) pathway. Another potential approach is targeting nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and inhibition of this prosurvival pathway. Newly discovered mutations and their signalling pathways play key roles in the course of the disease. This opens new opportunities in the management and treatment of CLL.
Prevalence and Prognostic Value of Myocardial Injury in the Initial Presentation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Older Adults
Authors: Arnau-Barrés Isabel , Pascual-Dapena Ana , López-Montesinos Inmaculada , Gómez-Zorrilla Silvia , Sorlí Luisa , Herrero Marta , Nogués Xavier , Montero Mila , Vázquez Olga , García-Giralt Natalia , Miralles Ramón , Güerri-Fernández Robert
Published: August 2021

Myocardial involvement during SARS-CoV-2 infection has been reported in many prior publications. We aim to study the prevalence and the clinical implications of acute myocardial injury (MIN) during SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in older patients. The method includes a longitudinal observational study with all consecutive adult patients admitted to a COVID-19 unit between March–April 2020. Those aged ≥65 were considered as older adult group. MIN was defined as at least 1 high-sensitive troponin (hs-TnT) concentration above the 99th percentile upper reference limit with different sex-cutoff. Results. Among the 634 patients admitted during the period of observation, 365 (58%) had evidence of MIN, and, of them, 224 (61%) were older adults. Among older adults, MIN was associated with longer time to recovery compared to those without MIN (13 days (IQR 6-21) versus 9 days (IQR 5-17); p < 0.001, respectively. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in older adults with MIN at admission versus those without it (71 (31%) versus 11 (12%); p < 0.001). In a logistic regression model adjusting by age, sex, severity, and Charlson Comorbidity Index, the OR for in-hospital mortality was 2.1 (95% CI: 1.02–4.42; p = 0.043) among those older adults with MIN at admission. Older adults with acute myocardial injury had greater time to clinical recovery, as well as higher odds of in-hospital mortality.
Recent Advances in Endosonography—Elastography: Literature Review
Authors: Yamamiya Akira , Irisawa Atsushi , Hoshi Koki , Yamabe Akane , Izawa Naoya , Nagashima Kazunori , Minaguchi Takahito , Yamaura Masamichi , Yoshida Yoshitsugu , Kashima Ken , Kunogi Yasuhito , Sakuma Fumi , Tominaga Keiichi , Iijima Makoto , Goda Kenichi
Published: August 2021

Ultrasonographic elastography is a modality used to visualize the elastic properties of tissues. Technological advances in ultrasound equipment have supported the evaluation of elastography (EG) in endosonography (EUS). Currently, the usefulness of not only EUS-strain elastography (EUS-SE) but also EUS-shear wave elastography (EUS-SWE) has been reported. We reviewed the literature on the usefulness of EUS-EG for various diseases such as chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic solid lesion, autoimmune pancreatitis, lymph node, and gastrointestinal and subepithelial lesions. The importance of this new diagnostic parameter, “tissue elasticity” in clinical practice might be applied not only to the diagnosis of liver fibrosis but also to the elucidation of the pathogeneses of various gastrointestinal diseases, including pancreatic diseases, and to the evaluation of therapeutic effects. The most important feature of EUS-EG is that it is a non-invasive modality. This is an advantage not found in EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), which has made remarkable progress in the field of diagnostics in recent years. Further development of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to improve the diagnostic performance of EUS-EG. Future research on EUS-EG is anticipated.
Diagnosis and Management of Aortic Valve Stenosis: The Role of Non-Invasive Imaging
Authors: Santangelo Gloria , Rossi Andrea , Toriello Filippo , Badano Luigi Paolo , Messika Zeitoun David , Faggiano Pompilio
Published: August 2021

Aortic stenosis is the most common heart valve disease necessitating surgical or percutaneous intervention. Imaging has a central role for the initial diagnostic work-up, the follow-up and the selection of the optimal timing and type of intervention. Referral for aortic valve replacement is currently driven by the severity and by the presence of aortic stenosis-related symptoms or signs of left ventricular systolic dysfunction. This review aims to provide an update of the imaging techniques and seeks to highlight a practical approach to help clinical decision making.
A Pharyngoplasty with a Dorsal Palatal Flap Expansion: The Evaluation of a Modified Surgical Treatment Method for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome—A Preliminary Report
Authors: Olszewska Ewa , Fiedorczuk Piotr , Stróżyński Adam , Polecka Agnieszka , Roszkowska Ewa , Woodson B. Tucker
Published: August 2021

Surgical techniques for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) constantly evolve. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of a new surgical approach for an OSAS pharyngoplasty with a dorsal palatal flap expansion (PDPFEx). A total of 21 participants (mean age 49.9; mean BMI 32.5) underwent a type III sleep study, an endoscopy of the upper airways, a filled medical history, a visual analog scale for snoring loudness, an Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and a Short Form Health Survey-36 questionnaire. A follow-up re-evaluation was performed 11 ± 4.9 months post-operatively. The study group (4 with moderate, 17 with severe OSAS) showed an improvement in all measured sleep study characteristics (p < 0.05), apnea-hypopnea index (pre-median 45.7 to 29.3 post-operatively, p = 0.009, r = 0.394), oxygen desaturation index (pre-median 47.7 and 23.3 post-operatively, p = 0.0005, r = 0.812), mean oxygen saturation (median 92% pre-operatively and median 94% post-operatively, p = 0.0002, r = 0.812), lowest oxygen saturation (p = 0.0001, r = 0.540) and time of sleep spent with blood oxygen saturation less than 90% (p = 0.0001, r = 0.485). The most commonly reported complications were throat dryness (11 patients) and minor difficulties in swallowing (5 patients transient, 3 patients constant). We conclude that a PDPFEx is a promising new surgical method; however, further controlled studies are needed to demonstrate its safety and efficacy for OSAS treatment in adults.
Effects of Selenium Supplementation on Sperm Parameters and DNA-Fragmentation Rate in Patients with Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Condorelli Rosita A. , Calogero Aldo E. , Bagnara Vincenzo , Aversa Antonio , Greco Emanuela A. , Brunetti Antonio , La Vignera Sandro
Published: August 2021

Background: Selenium (Se) is an essential component of selenoenzymes, which have catalytic and antioxidant functions. A low Se status has been reported in patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (AT) who benefit from Se supplementation. The role of Se in male reproduction is still a matter of debate. Although Se and selenoenzymes ensure sperm viability and protect against increased oxidative stress, only a few studies have assessed the effects of the administration of Se alone on sperm parameters, providing contrasting results. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of oral Se supplementation on conventional sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation (SDF) in patients with AT of reproductive age with normal thyroid function. Patients and Methods: Only patients with AT and normal thyroid function were selected for this study. All included patients underwent oral Se supplementation at the dose of 83 µg once daily (Syrel®, IBSA) for six months. Sperm conventional parameters, SDF, and thyroid function were assessed before and at the end of the treatment. Results: Twenty AT patients with normal weight were enrolled. After Se supplementation, they showed a higher sperm concentration, a higher percentage of sperm with progressive motility, and a higher percentage with normal morphology. They also had lower semen leukocyte concentration, and a lower percentage of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation compared with pre-treatment values. Free-thyroxine serum levels increased significantly, whereas free triiodothyronine showed an upward trend. The thyroid-stimulating hormone did not change significantly. Conclusion: Se supplementation may represent a possible non-hormonal therapeutic choice for the treatment of male infertility, although further studies are needed to confirm this evidence. The possible thyroid hormone dependency of these findings needs to be clarified.
A Rare Case of Patiromer Induced Hypercalcemia
Authors: Kanduri Swetha Rani , Suchow Kathryn J. , Velez Juan Carlos Q.
Published: August 2021

Patiromer is a calcium (Ca)-potassium (K) exchange resin approved for the treatment of hyperkalemia. Disorders of Ca or acid base balance were not reported in pre-approval clinical trials. We present a case of a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with an unusual picture of hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis and hypokalemia upon intensification of patiromer dosing. A 56-year-old white man with CKD stage 4 (baseline creatinine 2.8 mg/dL) due to type 1 diabetes mellitus, proteinuria (1.5 g/g) and persistently high serum potassium 5.9 mEq/L attributed to type 4 renal tubular acidosis was evaluated in clinic. Due to high risk of CKD progression, patiromer 8.4 g daily, followed by 16.8 g daily was prescribed to enable renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitor. After 5 months of being on patiromer 16.8 g daily, routine laboratory tests revealed serum potassium 2.5 mEq/L, serum calcium 12.8 mg/dL and carbon dioxide 34 mEq/L. Patiromer was discontinued and thorough investigation held was negative for other causes of hypercalcemia. Five days after patiromer discontinuation, serum calcium returned to normal. The role of secondary hyperparathyroidism in this case remains unclear. We, therefore recommend cautious vigilance of patients receiving patiromer and undergoing dose escalation.
Development, Testing and Characterization of Al NanoTiCp Composites through Powder Metallurgy Techniques
Authors: Bajpai Gaurav , Tiwari Anuradha , Purohit Rajesh , Panchore Vijay , Dwivedi Rashmi , Satyanarayana Kosaraju
Published: August 2021

In the present scenario, weight diminution and strength enrichment are the main requirements for escalating the application of a nano composite material in different sectors. Several industrial sectors, such as automobile, defense and aerospace, are making various components of nano composites with the help of powder metallurgy processing. In this study, Al nanoTiCp composites (2, 4 and 6 wt %) were contrived through modified powder metallurgy (PM) techniques with the help of Cold Isostatic Compaction process (CIP). The mechanical properties such as density, porosity, micro-hardness, compressive strength and indirect tensile strength were increasing with the reinforcement of nanoTiCp particles up to 4 wt % in Al metal matrix composites. Nevertheless, clustering of nanoTiCp particles were found at 6 wt %, which is also observed in SEM images.
Multimodal Emotion Recognition from Art Using Sequential Co-Attention
Authors: Tashu Tsegaye Misikir , Hajiyeva Sakina , Horvath Tomas
Published: August 2021

In this study, we present a multimodal emotion recognition architecture that uses both feature-level attention (sequential co-attention) and modality attention (weighted modality fusion) to classify emotion in art. The proposed architecture helps the model to focus on learning informative and refined representations for both feature extraction and modality fusion. The resulting system can be used to categorize artworks according to the emotions they evoke; recommend paintings that accentuate or balance a particular mood; search for paintings of a particular style or genre that represents custom content in a custom state of impact. Experimental results on the WikiArt emotion dataset showed the efficiency of the approach proposed and the usefulness of three modalities in emotion recognition.
Levels of Emotional Awareness: Theory and Measurement of a Socio-Emotional Skill
Authors: Lane Richard D. , Smith Ryan
Published: August 2021

Emotional awareness is the ability to conceptualize and describe one’s own emotions and those of others. Over thirty years ago, a cognitive-developmental theory of emotional awareness patterned after Piaget’s theory of cognitive development was created as well as a performance measure of this ability called the Levels of Emotional Awareness Scale (LEAS). Since then, a large number of studies have been completed in healthy volunteers and clinical populations including those with mental health or systemic medical disorders. Along the way, there have also been further refinements and adaptations of the LEAS such as the creation of a digital version in addition to further advances in the theory itself. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the evolving theoretical background, measurement methods, and empirical findings with the LEAS. The LEAS is a reliable and valid measure of emotional awareness. Evidence suggests that emotional awareness facilitates better emotion self-regulation, better ability to navigate complex social situations and enjoy relationships, and better physical and mental health. This is a relatively new but promising area of research in the domain of socio-emotional skills. The paper concludes with some recommendations for future research.