bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical and Functional Characterization of the Three Zebrafish Transglutaminases 2
Authors: Lisetto Manuel , Fattorini Mariagiulia , Lanza Andrea , Gerdol Marco , Griffin Martin , Wang Zhuo , Ferrara Fortunato , Sblattero Daniele
Published: July 2023

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a multifunctional protein widely distributed in various tissues and involved in many physiological and pathological processes. However, its actual role in biological processes is often controversial as TG2 shows different effects in these processes depending on its localization, cell type, or experimental conditions. We characterized the enzymatic and functional properties of TG2 proteins expressed in Danio rerio (zebrafish) to provide the basis for using this established animal model as a reliable tool to characterize TG2 functions in vivo. We confirmed the existence of three genes orthologous to human TG2 (zTGs2) in the zebrafish genome and their expression and function during embryonic development. We produced and purified the zTGs2s as recombinant proteins and showed that, like the human enzyme, zTGs2 catalyzes a Ca2+ dependent transamidation reaction that can be inhibited with TG2-specific inhibitors. In a cell model of human fibroblasts, we also demonstrated that zTGs2 can mediate RGD-independent cell adhesion in the extracellular environment. Finally, we transfected and selected zTGs2-overexpressing HEK293 cells and demonstrated that intracellular zTGs2 plays a very comparable protective/damaging role in the apoptotic process, as hTG2. Overall, our results suggest that zTGs2 proteins behave very similarly to the human ortholog and pave the way for future in vivo studies of TG2 functions in zebrafish.
Evidence of a Novel Mitochondrial Signature in Systemic Sclerosis Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: van Eeden Charmaine , Redmond Desiree , Mohazab Naima , Larché Maggie J. , Mason Andrew L. , Cohen Tervaert Jan Willem , Osman Mohammed S.
Published: July 2023

Symptoms of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are common in rheumatic diseases, but no studies report the frequency of these in early systemic sclerosis. There are no known biomarkers that can distinguish between patients with ME/CFS, although mitochondrial abnormalities are often demonstrated. We sought to assess the prevalence of ME/CFS in limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) patients early in their disease (<5 years from the onset of non-Raynaud’s symptoms) and to determine if alterations in mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) transcripts and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity could be used to distinguish between fatigued and non-fatigued patients. All SSc patients met ACR/EULAR classification criteria. ME/CFS-related symptoms were assessed through validated questionnaires, and the expression of ETC transcripts and mtDNA integrity were quantified via qPCR. SSc patients with ME/CFS could be distinguished from non-fatigued patients through ETC gene analysis; specifically, reduced expression of ND4 and CyB and increased expression of Cox7C. ND4 and CyB expression correlated with indicators of disease severity. Further prospective and functional studies are needed to determine if this altered signature can be further utilized to better identify ME/CFS in SSc patients, and whether ME/CFS in early SSc disease could predict more severe disease outcomes.
Recent Advances in Molecular Mechanism and Breeding Utilization of Brown Planthopper Resistance Genes in Rice: An Integrated Review
Authors: Yan Liuhui , Luo Tongping , Huang Dahui , Wei Minyi , Ma Zengfeng , Liu Chi , Qin Yuanyuan , Zhou Xiaolong , Lu Yingping , Li Rongbai , Qin Gang , Zhang Yuexiong
Published: July 2023

Over half of the world’s population relies on rice as their staple food. The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål, BPH) is a significant insect pest that leads to global reductions in rice yields. Breeding rice varieties that are resistant to BPH has been acknowledged as the most cost-effective and efficient strategy to mitigate BPH infestation. Consequently, the exploration of BPH-resistant genes in rice and the development of resistant rice varieties have become focal points of interest and research for breeders. In this review, we summarized the latest advancements in the localization, cloning, molecular mechanisms, and breeding of BPH-resistant rice. Currently, a total of 70 BPH-resistant gene loci have been identified in rice, 64 out of 70 genes/QTLs were mapped on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, and 12, respectively, with 17 of them successfully cloned. These genes primarily encode five types of proteins: lectin receptor kinase (LecRK), coiled-coil-nucleotide-binding-leucine-rich repeat (CC-NB-LRR), B3-DNA binding domain, leucine-rich repeat domain (LRD), and short consensus repeat (SCR). Through mediating plant hormone signaling, calcium ion signaling, protein kinase cascade activation of cell proliferation, transcription factors, and miRNA signaling pathways, these genes induce the deposition of callose and cell wall thickening in rice tissues, ultimately leading to the inhibition of BPH feeding and the formation of resistance mechanisms against BPH damage. Furthermore, we discussed the applications of these resistance genes in the genetic improvement and breeding of rice. Functional studies of these insect-resistant genes and the elucidation of their network mechanisms establish a strong theoretical foundation for investigating the interaction between rice and BPH. Furthermore, they provide ample genetic resources and technical support for achieving sustainable BPH control and developing innovative insect resistance strategies.
Intravitreal Administration of Retinal Organoids-Derived Exosomes Alleviates Photoreceptor Degeneration in Royal College of Surgeons Rats by Targeting the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway
Authors: Han Jung , Chang Hun , Yang Jin , Choi Han , Park Hyo , Jun Hyoung , Choi Ji , Paik Sun-Sook , Chung Kyung , Shin Hee , Nam Seungyeon , Son Ji-Hye , Lee Si , Lee Eun , Seo Kyoung , Lyu Jungmook , Kim Jin , Kim In-Beom , Park Tae
Published: July 2023

Increasing evidence suggests that exosomes are involved in retinal cell degeneration, including their insufficient release; hence, they have become important indicators of retinopathies. The exosomal microRNA (miRNA), in particular, play important roles in regulating ocular and retinal cell functions, including photoreceptor maturation, maintenance, and visual function. Here, we generated retinal organoids (ROs) from human induced pluripotent stem cells that differentiated in a conditioned medium for 60 days, after which exosomes were extracted from ROs (Exo-ROs). Subsequently, we intravitreally injected the Exo-RO solution into the eyes of the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats. Intravitreal Exo-RO administration reduced photoreceptor apoptosis, prevented outer nuclear layer thinning, and preserved visual function in RCS rats. RNA sequencing and miRNA profiling showed that exosomal miRNAs are mainly involved in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. In addition, the expression of MAPK-related genes and proteins was significantly decreased in the Exo-RO-treated group. These results suggest that Exo-ROs may be a potentially novel strategy for delaying retinal degeneration by targeting the MAPK signaling pathway.
TCR Sequencing in Mouse Models of Allorecognition Unveils the Features of Directly and Indirectly Activated Clonotypes
Authors: Tereshchenko Valeriy , Shevyrev Daniil , Fisher Marina , Bulygin Aleksei , Khantakova Julia , Sennikov Sergey
Published: July 2023

Allorecognition is known to involve a large number of lymphocytes carrying diverse T-cell receptor repertoire. Thus, one way to understand allorecognition and rejection mechanisms is via high-throughput sequencing of T-cell receptors. In this study, in order to explore and systematize the properties of the alloreactive T-cell receptor repertoire, we modeled direct and indirect allorecognition pathways using material from inbred mice in vitro and in vivo. Decoding of the obtained T-cell receptor genes using high-throughput sequencing revealed some features of the alloreactive repertoires. Thus, alloreactive T-cell receptor repertoires were characterized by specific V-gene usage patterns, changes in CDR3 loop length, and some amino acid occurrence probabilities in the CDR3 loop. Particularly pronounced changes were observed for directly alloreactive clonotypes. We also revealed a clustering of directly and indirectly alloreactive clonotypes by their ability to bind a single antigen; amino acid patterns of the CDR3 loop of alloreactive clonotypes; and the presence in alloreactive repertoires of clonotypes also associated with infectious, autoimmune, and tumor diseases. The obtained results were determined by the modeling of the simplified allorecognition reaction in inbred mice in which stimulation was performed with a single MHCII molecule. We suppose that the decomposition of the diverse alloreactive TCR repertoire observed in humans with transplants into such simple reactions will help to find alloreactive repertoire features; e.g., a dominant clonotype or V-gene usage pattern, which may be targeted to correct the entire rejection reaction in patients. In this work, we propose several technical ways for such decomposition analysis, including separate modeling of the indirect alloreaction pathway and clustering of alloreactive clonotypes according to their ability to bind a single antigen, among others.
Elevated Levels of Circulating lncRNAs LIPCAR and MALAT1 Predict an Unfavorable Outcome in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients
Authors: Barbalata Teodora , Niculescu Loredan S. , Stancu Camelia S. , Pinet Florence , Sima Anca V.
Published: July 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. In this study, we aimed to assess the potential of plasma long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) LIPCAR and MALAT1 and microRNAs (miRNAs) miR-142-3p and miR-155-5p to discriminate unstable CAD patients from stable ones. 23 stable angina (SA), 21 unstable angina (UA), and 50 ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients were enrolled; their plasma was collected. ncRNA plasma levels were evaluated using RT-qPCR. All measured ncRNA levels were significantly increased in UA patients’ plasma compared to SA patients’ plasma and in STEMI-with major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) patients’ plasma vs. STEMI-without MACE patients’ plasma. ROC analysis showed that increased levels of LIPCAR and MALAT1 were associated with UA, and the prognostic model improved with the addition of miR-155-5p levels. The assessed lncRNAs discriminated between hyperglycemic (HG) and normoglycemic (NG) UA patients, and they were associated with MACE incidence in STEMI patients; this prediction was improved by the addition of miR-142-3p levels to the ROC multivariate model. We propose LIPCAR and MALAT1 as effective diagnostic markers for vulnerable CAD, their association with HG in UA patients, and as robust predictors for unfavorable evolution of STEMI patients.
Characterization of Dof Transcription Factors and the Heat-Tolerant Function of PeDof-11 in Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Authors: Chen Ge , Xu Yi , Gui Jie , Huang Yongcai , Ma Funing , Wu Wenhua , Han Te , Qiu Wenwu , Yang Liu , Song Shun
Published: July 2023

Abiotic stress is the focus of passion fruit research since it harms the industry, in which high temperature is an important influencing factor. Dof transcription factors (TFs) act as essential regulators in stress conditions. TFs can protect against abiotic stress via a variety of biological processes. There is yet to be published a systematic study of the Dof (PeDof) family of passion fruit. This study discovered 13 PeDof family members by using high-quality genomes, and the members of this characterization were identified by bioinformatics. Transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR were used to analyze the induced expression of PeDofs under high-temperature stress during three periods, in which PeDof-11 was significantly induced with high expression. PeDof-11 was then chosen and converted into yeast, tobacco, and Arabidopsis, with the findings demonstrating that PeDof-11 could significantly respond to high-temperature stress. This research lays the groundwork for a better understanding of PeDof gene regulation under high-temperature stress.
Pharmacological Screening of Kv7.1 and Kv7.1/KCNE1 Activators as Potential Antiarrhythmic Drugs in the Zebrafish Heart
Authors: De la Cruz Alicia , Wu Xiaoan , Rainer Quinn C. , Hiniesto-Iñigo Irene , Perez Marta E. , Edler Isak , Liin Sara I. , Larsson H. Peter
Published: July 2023

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) can lead to ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. The most common congenital cause of LQTS is mutations in the channel subunits generating the cardiac potassium current IKs. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have been proposed as a powerful system to model human cardiac diseases due to the similar electrical properties of the zebrafish heart and the human heart. We used high-resolution all-optical electrophysiology on ex vivo zebrafish hearts to assess the effects of IKs analogues on the cardiac action potential. We found that chromanol 293B (an IKs inhibitor) prolonged the action potential duration (APD) in the presence of E4031 (an IKr inhibitor applied to drug-induced LQT2), and to a lesser extent, in the absence of E4031. Moreover, we showed that PUFA analogues slightly shortened the APD of the zebrafish heart. However, PUFA analogues failed to reverse the APD prolongation in drug-induced LQT2. However, a more potent IKs activator, ML-277, partially reversed the APD prolongation in drug-induced LQT2 zebrafish hearts. Our results suggest that IKs plays a limited role in ventricular repolarizations in the zebrafish heart under resting conditions, although it plays a more important role when the IKr is compromised, as if the IKs in zebrafish serves as a repolarization reserve as in human hearts. This study shows that potent IKs activators can restore the action potential duration in drug-induced LQT2 in the zebrafish heart.
Nicotine and Cytisine Embryotoxicity in the Experimental Zebrafish Model
Authors: Świątkowski Wojciech , Budzyńska Barbara , Maciąg Monika , Świątkowska Agnieszka , Tylżanowski Przemko , Rahnama-Hezavah Mansur , Stachurski Piotr , Chałas Renata
Published: July 2023

Tobacco smoking is one of the most serious health problems. Potentially lethal effects of nicotine for adults can occur with as little as 30 to 60 mg, although severe symptoms can arise with lower doses. Furthermore, the route of administration also influences the toxicity. Cytisine is one of the most popular medications in nicotinism treatment. Like nicotine, cytisine is a plant alkaloid, signaling through nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Our study evaluated the effects of cytisine in nicotine-induced embryotoxic effects using zebrafish larvae. We examined the teratogenicity of nicotine and cytisine alone or in combination. Nicotine increased mortality and delayed hatching of zebrafish larvae in a dose-dependent manner. Cytisine did not affect mortality in a wide range of concentrations, and hatching delay was observed only at the highest concentrations, above 2 mM. Administering compounds together partially reduced the adverse teratogenic effect induced by nicotine alone. The protective effect of cytisine against the nicotine effect, observed in zebrafish, will contribute to future studies or treatments related to nicotine addiction or prenatal nicotine exposure in humans.
Class III Alcohol Dehydrogenase Plays a Key Role in the Onset of Alcohol-Related/-Associated Liver Disease as an S-Nitrosoglutathione Reductase in Mice
Authors: Haseba Takeshi , Maruyama Motoyo , Akimoto Toshio , Yamamoto Isao , Katsuyama Midori , Okuda Takahisa
Published: July 2023

Lipid accumulation in the liver due to chronic alcohol consumption (CAC) is crucial in the development of alcohol liver disease (ALD). It is promoted by the NADH/NAD ratio increase via alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)-dependent alcohol metabolism and lipogenesis increase via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in the liver. The transcriptional activity of PPARγ on lipogenic genes is inhibited by S-nitrosylation but activated by denitrosylation via S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), an enzyme identical to ADH3. Besides ADH1, ADH3 also participates in alcohol metabolism. Therefore, we investigated the specific contribution of ADH3 to ALD onset. ADH3-knockout (Adh3-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice were administered a 10% ethanol solution for 12 months. Adh3-/- exhibited no significant pathological changes in the liver, whereas WT exhibited marked hepatic lipid accumulation (p < 0.005) with increased serum transaminase levels. Adh3-/- exhibited no death during CAC, whereas WT exhibited a 40% death. Liver ADH3 mRNA levels were elevated by CAC in WT (p < 0.01). The alcohol elimination rate measured after injecting 4 g/kg ethanol was not significantly different between two strains, although the rate was increased in both strains by CAC. Thus, ADH3 plays a key role in the ALD onset, likely by acting as GSNOR.
Oral Spirochete Treponema denticola Intraoral Infection Reveals Unique miR-133a, miR-486, miR-126-3p, miR-126-5p miRNA Expression Kinetics during Periodontitis
Authors: Aravindraja Chairmandurai , Jeepipalli Syam , Vekariya Krishna Mukesh , Botello-Escalante Ruben , Chan Edward K. L. , Kesavalu Lakshmyya
Published: July 2023

miRNAs are major regulators of eukaryotic gene expression and host immunity, and play an important role in the inflammation-mediated pathways in periodontal disease (PD) pathogenesis. Expanding our previous observation with the global miRNA profiling using partial human mouth microbes, and lack of in vivo studies involving oral spirochete Treponema denticola-induced miRNAs, this study was designed to delineate the global miRNA expression kinetics during progression of periodontitis in mice infected with T. denticola by using NanoString nCounter® miRNA panels. All of the T. denticola-infected male and female mice at 8 and 16 weeks demonstrated bacterial colonization (100%) on the gingival surface, and an increase in alveolar bone resorption (p < 0.0001). A total of 70 miRNAs with at least 1.0-fold differential expression/regulation (DE) (26 upregulated and 44 downregulated) were identified. nCounter miRNA expression profiling identified 13 upregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-133a, miR-378) and 25 downregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-375, miR-34b-5p) in T. denticola-infected mouse mandibles during 8 weeks of infection, whereas 13 upregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-486, miR-126-5p) and 19 downregulated miRNAs (miR-2135, miR-142-3p) were observed during 16 weeks of infection. One miRNA (miR-126-5p) showed significant difference between 8 and 16 weeks of infection. Interestingly, miR-126-5p has been presented as a potential biomarker in patients with periodontitis and coronary artery disease. Among the upregulated miRNAs, miR-486, miR-126-3p, miR-126-5p, miR-378a-3p, miR-22-3p, miR-151a-3p, miR-423-5p, and miR-221 were reported in human gingival plaques and saliva samples from periodontitis and with diabetes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed various functional pathways of DE miRNAs, such as bacterial invasion of epithelial cells, Ras signaling, Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis, osteoclast differentiation, adherens signaling, and ubiquitin mediated proteolysis. This is the first study of DE miRNAs in mouse mandibles at different time-points of T. denticola infection; the combination of three specific miRNAs, miR-486, miR-126-3p, and miR-126-5p, may serve as an invasive biomarker of T. denticola in PD. These miRNAs may have a significant role in PD pathogenesis, and this research establishes a link between miRNA, periodontitis, and systemic diseases.
Influence of Electrospun Fibre Secondary Morphology on Antibiotic Release Kinetic and Its Impact on Antimicrobic Efficacy
Authors: Rosalia Mariella , Grisoli Pietro , Dorati Rossella , Chiesa Enrica , Pisani Silvia , Bruni Giovanna , Genta Ida , Conti Bice
Published: July 2023

Vascular graft infections are a severe complication in vascular surgery, with a high morbidity and mortality. Prevention and treatment involve the use of antibiotic- or antiseptic-impregnated artificial vascular grafts, but currently, there are no commercially available infection-proof small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs). In this work we investigated the antimicrobic activity of two SDVGs prototypes loaded with tobramycin and produced via the electrospinning of drug-doped PLGA (polylactide-co-glycolide) solutions. Differences in rheological and conductivity properties of the polymer solutions resulted in non-identical fibre morphology that deeply influenced the hydration profile and consequently the in vitro cumulative drug release, which was investigated by using a spectrofluorimetric technique. Using DDSolver Excel add-in, modelling of the drug release kinetic was performed to evaluate the release mechanism involved: Prototype 1 showed a sustained and diffusive driven drug release, which allowed for the complete elution of tobramycin within 2 weeks, whereas Prototype 2 resulted in a more extended drug release controlled by both diffusion and matrix relaxation. Time-kill assays performed on S. aureus and E. coli highlighted the influence of burst drug release on the decay rate of bacterial populations, with Prototype 1 being more efficient on both microorganisms. Nevertheless, both prototypes showed good antimicrobic activity over the 5 days of in vitro testing.
Special Issue: “Current Trends and Outcomes of Infective Endocarditis”
Authors: Ioannou Petros , Kofteridis Diamantis
Published: July 2023

Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infectious disease involving the endothelium of the heart and, more commonly, the cardiac valves and prosthetic material (such as pacemakers and implantable defibrillators), and carries high morbidity and mortality rates [...]
Ovarian Follicular Response Is Altered by Salpingectomy in Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Pre- and Postoperative Case–Control Study
Authors: Reitz Laurianne , Balaya Vincent , Pache Basile , Feki Anis , Le Conte Grégoire , Benammar Achraf , Ayoubi Jean-Marc
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The goal of this study was to assess the effect of unilateral salpingectomy on the number of mature follicles in the ipsilateral ovary during an assisted reproductive technology (ART) stimulation cycle, as compared to the contralateral ovary. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center, case–control cohort study conducted from 2017 to 2022. Patients from 18 to 43 years old who underwent at least one ART cycle before and after a unilateral salpingectomy were included. The number of recruited follicles, including mature (≥16 mm) and intermediate follicles (13–15.5 mm), on the salpingectomy side (case) were compared to those present on the contralateral ovary (control) during an ART attempt. To take into account the inter-ovarian variability, the comparison was performed on two ART cycles, performed before then after the salpingectomy. Results: Overall, 24 patients were included in our study. While the number of mature follicles was similar in both ovaries before surgery, the mean number of mature follicles was significantly reduced after salpingectomy in the operated side, as compared to the control side, being, respectively 3.00 vs. 5.08 (p = 0.048). There was no significant difference between the intermediate and total recruited follicles. Conclusions: Our study suggests that salpingectomy may impact the follicle recruitment on the ipsilateral side by altering the vascularization during mesosalpinx coagulation. Gynecologists should be mindful of this concept and accurately set surgical indications. Beyond the indication, this emphasizes the critical role of having infertility surgeons sensitive to fertility preservation for optimal management of ART patients. Further studies with larger patient populations are required to confirm these results.
The Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus Type II (DMII) in the Multiple Sclerosis Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Giannopapas Vasileios , Palaiodimou Lina , Kitsos Dimitrios , Papagiannopoulou Georgia , Stavrogianni Konstantina , Chasiotis Athanasios , Kosmidou Maria , Tzartos John S. , Paraskevas George P. , Bakalidou Daphne , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Giannopoulos Sotirios
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The interactions between Diabetes Mellitus type II (DMII) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) lead to higher levels of fatigue, higher risk of physical disability, faster cognitive decline, and in general a lower quality of life and a higher frequency of depression compared to the general population. All of the above accelerate the disability progression of patients with MS, reduce the patients’ functional capacity, and further increase their psychological and economic burden. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to calculate the prevalence of DMII in the MS population. Following PRISMA guidelines, a thorough search of the Medline Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases was performed, focusing on the frequency of DMII in the MS population. Results: A total of 19 studies were included in the synthesis. The results of the main meta-analysis of random effects using R studio 3.3.0 for Windows and the Meta r package showed that the prevalence of DMII in the MS population is 5% (95% CI [0.03, 0.07], 19 studies, I2 = 95%, pQ < 0.001). Additional subgroup analysis based on region showed a difference of 4.4% (I2 = 95.2%, pQ < 0.001), psubgroupdifference = 0.003) between European and non-European participants, while demographic- and MS-specific characteristic (EDSS, Disease Duration) did not seem to affect the prevalence of DMII in the MS population (p = 0.30, p = 0.539, p = 0.19, p = 0.838). No publication bias was discovered (Egger’s p test value: 0.896). Conclusions: Even though the prevalence of DMII in the MS population is lower than 10% (the reported prevalence of DMII in the general population) the interactions between the two conditions create significant challenges for MS patients, their caregivers, and physicians. DΜΙΙ should be systematically recorded in the case of MS patients to clearly delineate any potential relationship between the two conditions. Additionally, more structured studies investigating the interactions of MS and DMΙΙ as well as the direction of the causation between those two conditions are necessary in order to gain a deeper insight into the nature of the interaction between MS and DMII.
A National Case-Crossover Study on the Risk of Kidney Injury Requiring Dialysis after Sepsis
Authors: Wong Chung-Shun , Chen Tzu-Ting , Akhmetzhanov Andrei R. , Hu Ping-Jen , Wu Mai-Szu , Wu Mei-Yi
Published: July 2023

Background: Patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) are at risk of kidney damage, potentially necessitating acute temporary or chronic dialysis. Our study aims to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of preceding sepsis among patients requiring their first dialysis. Methods: A nationwide population-based case-only study was conducted using claims records from the National Health insurance database of Taiwan. All patients over 20 years of age who underwent their first dialysis between 2004 and 2016 were included in the study. The six months prior to their first dialysis served as a self-control period. Results: The study included 147,201 patients who required acute temporary and 75,031 patients who required chronic dialysis. The odds ratios for patients needing acute temporary dialysis after 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks of exposure periods were 15.8, 10.7, 9.2, and 8.4, respectively. The ORs for patients requiring chronic dialysis were 7.0, 4.1, 4.2, and 3.7, respectively. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that sepsis was substantially associated with an increased risk of renal failure. The risk was highest during the first week following sepsis for both acute temporary and chronic dialysis cases.
Feasibility and Surgical Outcomes of Hysteroscopic Myomectomy of FIGO Type 3 Myoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Etrusco Andrea , Laganà Antonio , Chiantera Vito , Vitagliano Amerigo , Cicinelli Ettore , Mikuš Mislav , Šprem Goldštajn Marina , Ferrari Federico , Uccella Stefano , Garzon Simone , Gerli Sandro , Favilli Alessandro
Published: July 2023

The latest classification from the Fédération Internationale de Gynécologie et d’Obstétrique (FIGO) has reclassified type 3 myomas, changing their classification from intramural to submucosal. While hysteroscopic myomectomy is considered the gold standard treatment for patients experiencing symptoms from submucosal myomas, there are currently no specific guidelines available for managing type 3 myomas, and the optimal surgical approach remains uncertain. Methods: The search for suitable articles published in English was carried out using the following databases (PROSPERO ID CRD42023418602): MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, The Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register), Health Technology Assessment Database, Web of Science and search register. Only original studies reporting data on hysteroscopic myomectomy of type 3 myoma were considered eligible. The main outcomes investigated were the effectiveness and feasibility of hysteroscopic myomectomy and reproductive outcomes after surgical treatment. Results: Two hundred and sixty-one studies were screened and nineteen of these were read for eligibility. Three studies encompassing 56 patients in total were included. Among the overall population studied, three patients needed an additional procedure to completely remove the myoma and five cases of post-surgical synechiae were recorded. No complications were reported. Of 42 patients wishing for pregnancy, the cumulative live birth rates before and after the hysteroscopic myomectomy were 14.3% and 42.9%, respectively. Conclusions: Hysteroscopic myomectomy appears to be a safe and feasible approach. Nevertheless, data reported in the literature are extremely scarce and based on studies with few patients enrolled. New evidence is needed to assess the safety and effectiveness of hysteroscopic treatment for FIGO type 3 myomas.
Spontaneous Pneumothorax Secondary to Bullous Lung Emphysema Positive for Cannabinoids upon Toxicological Examination
Authors: Bisconti Mario , De Palma Angela , Pacifici Roberta , Rotolo Maria Concetta , Pichini Simona , Brascia Debora , Trabucco Xenia , Pellegrini Manuela , Carrozzi Laura , Pistelli Francesco , Marulli Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

Cannabis can be related to respiratory diseases, but the relationship between smoking marijuana and the development of a pneumothorax has scarcely been investigated. We aimed to analyze, in patients with a history of cannabis smoking abuse submitted to lung apicectomy for a primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), the correlation between the presence of cannabinoids in the resected lung and the detection of bullous emphysema within the same tissue. Patients undergoing lung apicectomy for a PSP were prospectively enrolled, and the correlation between the presence of cannabinoids in the resected lung tissue and histological finding of bullous emphysema was investigated with Fisher’s exact test. There were 21 male patients, with a median age of 27 years. The cannabinoids found by the toxicological examination in surgical specimens were mainly delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabidiol (CBD). In 14/21 patients, cannabinoids were detected in the resected lung tissue, and bullous emphysema was present in 13/14 of these (93%), while bullous emphysema was found in only 1/7 (14%) of the remaining patients who were negative for cannabinoids in the lung tissue, and the difference was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.0009). Our study demonstrated the presence of bullous emphysema in most cannabinoid-positive patients and its absence in most of those who were cannabinoid-negative, supporting the correlation between cannabinoids in the lung tissue and bullous emphysema with the development of a “secondary” spontaneous pneumothorax.
Management of Axillary Contracture in Poland Syndrome: Differentiating Fibrous Band and Skin for Optimal Release
Authors: Matsuura Rikako , Shimizu Yusuke , Matsuura Naoki , Ntege Edward Hosea , Wada Naoki
Published: July 2023

Poland syndrome (PS), an uncommon congenital unilateral aplasia of chest wall muscles, may exhibit rare accompanying signs, such as axillary webbing or contractures. The existing literature on the specific management of axillary contractures is limited. In this report, we present the case of a 10-year-old girl with PS manifesting an axillary web containing a fibrous band, which was successfully surgically corrected by a double-opposing Z-plasty. Our surgical approach entailed a meticulous distinction between the deep fibrous band and the superficial cutaneous layer, guided by histopathological findings that indicated the presence of tendon-like tissue, ultimately yielding excellent outcomes. This report will help expand knowledge by highlighting the unique manifestation of PS and emphasizing the importance of employing appropriate treatment approaches. Moreover, addressing both tendon and skin components is essential for optimal contracture release in PS.
Radiomics-Based Analysis in the Prediction of Occult Lymph Node Metastases in Patients with Oral Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jiang Serena , Locatello Luca Giovanni , Maggiore Giandomenico , Gallo Oreste
Published: July 2023

Background: Tumor extension and metastatic cervical lymph nodes’ (LNs) number and dimensions are major prognostic factors in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Radiomics-based models are being integrated into clinical practice in the prediction of LN status prior to surgery in order to optimize the treatment, yet their value is still debated. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the PRISMA guideline. Baseline study characteristics, and methodological items were extracted and summarized. Results: A total of 10 retrospective studies were included into the present study, each of them exploiting a single imaging modality. Data from a cohort of 1489 patients were analyzed: the highest AUC value was 99.5%, ACC ranges from 68% to 97.5%, and sensibility and specificity were over 0.65 and 0.70, respectively. Conclusion: Radiomics may be a noninvasive tool to predict occult LN metastases (LNM) in OSCC patients prior to treatment; further prospective studies are warranted to create a reproducible and reliable method for the detection of LNM in OSCC.
The Effects of Intraoperative Remifentanil Infusion on Postoperative Opioid Consumption in Patients Who Underwent Total Knee Arthroplasty with Femoral Nerve Block
Authors: Chung Chanjong , Choi Jinyoung , Lee Taeyoung , Park Sangyoong
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Remifentanil is used for intraoperative pain control; however, it has several side effects, such as hypotension and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. We aimed to determine whether an intraoperative remifentanil infusion may increase postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing total knee arthroscopy (TKA) under femoral nerve block (FNB) in addition to general anesthesia. (2) Methods: We randomly assigned 66 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty to the remifentanil (R) and control (C) groups. All patients underwent FNB and popliteal artery and posterior capsule of the knee (iPACK) block in addition to sevoflurane-based general anesthesia. Postoperative pain control was achieved using intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) fentanyl. We recorded IV-PCA fentanyl consumption at various postoperative timepoints, numerical rating scale (NRS) scores, intraoperative changes in vital signs and index of nociception (qNOX), ephedrine consumption, postoperative side effects, satisfaction, and sleep quality. (3) Results: The primary outcome (the cumulative IV-PCA fentanyl usage within 48 h postoperatively) was significantly lower in the C group (541.1 ± 294.5 µg) than in the R group (717.5 ± 224.0 µg) (p < 0.001). The secondary outcome (the cumulative IV-PCA fentanyl usage within 12, 24, and 72 h) was lower in the C group than in the R group and the mean arterial pressure was lower in the R group than in the C group from immediately after tourniquet on to immediately after tourniquet off. The heart rate was lower in the R group from immediately after incision to immediately after irrigation. There was no significant between-group difference in the perioperative qNOX and NRS scores at rest and activity except for NRS scores at 72 h postoperatively. Ephedrine use was higher in the R group than in the C group (p = 0.003). There was no significant between-group difference in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, nor in the postoperative satisfaction and sleep quality. (4) Conclusions: Avoiding intraoperative remifentanil infusion may reduce total opioid consumption in patients undergoing FNB before TKA.
Influence of the Loading with Newly Green Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Equisetum sylvaticum on the Antibacterial Activity and Surface Hardness of a Composite Resin
Authors: Tărăboanță Ionuț , Burlec Ana Flavia , Stoleriu Simona , Corciovă Andreia , Fifere Adrian , Batir-Marin Denisa , Hăncianu Monica , Mircea Cornelia , Nica Irina , Tărăboanță-Gamen Andra Claudia , Andrian Sorin
Published: July 2023

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity and surface hardness of a light-activated microhybrid composite resin modified with green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs were synthesized using an Equisetum sylvaticum extract and characterized through different methods such as UV-Vis, EDX, and FTIR. The obtained AgNPs were mixed with a microhybrid composite resin (Herculite XRV, Kerr Corp., Orange, CA, USA) in different concentrations: 0% (group A-control); 0.5% (group B); 1% (group C); and 1.5% (group D). A total of 120 composite resin disk-shaped samples were obtained and divided into 4 groups (n = 30) according to AgNP concentration. Each group was then divided into 2 subgroups: subgroup 1—samples were not soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution; and subgroup 2—samples were soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution. The antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans was determined using a direct contact test. A digital electronic hardness tester was used to determine the composite resin’s Vickers surface hardness (VH). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric tests with a confidence level of 95%. Groups C and D showed higher antibacterial activity against S. mutans when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded between VH values (p > 0.05). The use of AgNPs synthesized from Equisetum sylvaticum as a composite resin filler in 1% wt. and 1.5% wt. reduced the activity of Streptococcus mutans. Soaking of the experimental composite resin decreased the antibacterial efficacy. The loading of a microhybrid composite resin with AgNPs in concentrations of 0.5% wt., 1% wt., and 1.5% wt. did not influence the surface hardness.
Factors Affecting the Readiness of User-Pay Public–Private Partnership Procurement for Infrastructure Projects: A Comparison between Developed and Emerging Economies
Authors: Vu Hang , Sandanayake Malindu , Zhang Guomin
Published: July 2023

The successful implementation of infrastructure projects through public–private partnerships (PPPs) significantly relies on a well-designed procurement scheme; however, there is currently no established systematic decision-making model to identify the most optimal one. This paper explores the factors affecting the selection of public–private partnership schemes in infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on the differences between developed and emerging economies. The study opted for a comprehensive literature review and open-ended interviews to validate 25 critical factors affecting the optimum selection of PPP procurement for infrastructure projects. Then, a questionnaire survey was adopted to evaluate the selected factors and empirically examine the differences and commonalities between developed and emerging economies. The results highlighted the “financial attraction of projects to investors” and “financial viability based on the net present value and risk-adjusted present value” as the two most important factors. While the importance of most selection factors was agreed upon, nine selection factors were ranked unanimously higher for developed economies than for emerging economies. The findings of this study will aid in comprehending the factors that impact the choice of PPP schemes and provide insights for policymakers and project managers in both developed and emerging economies. These factors serve as inputs in developing a decision-making framework that aids both public and private stakeholders in selecting the most appropriate PPP procurement schemes for infrastructure projects.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Land Use Planning Alternatives Based on GIS-ANP
Authors: Jiang Zizhan , Montz Burrell , Vogel Thomas
Published: July 2023

Planning alternatives evaluation is often influenced by the evaluator’s background knowledge and preferences, and its objectivity is hard to guarantee. A comprehensive evaluation method combining Geographic Information System (GIS) with system analysis technology is proposed in this paper. Using a land use issue in America as an example, GIS was combined with Fuzzy Logic, and the Analytic Network Process (ANP) method was used to evaluate three planning alternatives. The evaluation value of each qualitative index was obtained by Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation, and the quantitative index value was calculated by GIS algorithms. A weighted hypermatrix of ANP network was constructed to reveal the overall relative importance weight of alternatives. The results indicate that, in this case study, the factor weight rankings that influenced the selection of the land use alternative are Ecological factors (above 40%), socioeconomic factors (30%), Physical and Chemical factors (10–17%), and cumulative related factors (10%). In the long run, choices of planning alternatives will greatly affect the natural environment, the physical and chemical environment, and the social economy. The results indicate planners have to pay attention to a wide range of both qualitative and quantitative factors as much as possible in land use decisions. This study illustrates how the GIS-ANP method combine qualitative and quantitative factors in planning for a comprehensive analysis, thus improving the objectivity of evaluating land use planning alternatives and determining the importance of influencing factors. Future work aims to optimize the evaluation index system of planning, and measure index values in a more precise way.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Tourism: A Clustering Approach for the Spanish Tourism Analysis
Authors: Ríos Rodríguez Nerea , Nieto Masot Ana , Cárdenas Alonso Gema
Published: July 2023

Since the middle of the last century, the Spanish tourism sector has experienced significant growth, which was interrupted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation had a considerable impact on Spain, as the country is a leading world tourism destination and relies heavily on this sector in its economy, making it vulnerable when demand for tourism services declines. The tourism model in Spain is not homogeneous, and the Mediterranean coastal regions and island areas are highly dependent on tourism as a main source of economic income and were particularly affected by the consequences of the pandemic. This study analyzes the impact of the pandemic on the tourism sector in each Spanish autonomous community, focusing on tourism demand through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The results reveal the disparity and vulnerability of Spanish regions to the tourism crisis. The most tourist-dependent areas dependent on international tourism have experienced a decline due to restrictions and a fall in demand. On the other hand, rural regions that depend mainly on national tourism have suffered fewer effects.
Remote Sensing Monitoring and Spatial Pattern Analysis of Non-Grain Production of Cultivated Land in Anhui Province, China
Authors: Zhi Junjun , Cao Xinyue , Liu Wangbing , Sun Yang , Xu Da , Da Caiwei , Jin Lei , Wang Jin , Zheng Zihao , Lai Shuyuan , Liu YongJiao , Zhu Guohai
Published: July 2023

In recent years, non-grain production of cultivated land (NGPCL) has become increasingly prominent in China, seriously affecting food production and threatening the country’s food security. However, there is a lack of large-scale and high-precision methods for remote sensing identification of NGPCL. From the perspective of effective management of cultivated land resources, the characteristics of the spatial patterns of NGPCL, both on a large scale and at a patch scale, need to be further studied. For solving this problem, this paper uses the Google Earth engine (GEE) cloud computing platform and multi-source remote sensing data with a machine learning algorithm to determine the occurrence of NGPCL in Anhui province in 2019, and then uses nine selected landscape pattern indexes to analyze the spatial patterns of NGPCL from two aspects, specifically, economic development level and topography. The results show that: (1) terrain features, radar features, and texture features are beneficial to the extraction of NGPCL; (2) the degree of separation obtained by using an importance evaluation approach shows that spectral features have the highest importance, followed by index features with red edges, texture features, index features without red edges, radar features, and terrain features; and (3) the cultivated land in Anhui province in 2019 is mainly planted with food crops, and the phenomenon of NGPCL is more likely to occur in areas with high economic development levels and flat terrain. Aided by the GEE cloud platform, multi-source remote sensing data, and machine learning algorithm, the remote sensing monitoring approach utilized in this study could accurately, quickly, and efficiently determine NGPCL on a regional scale.
Growth and Photosynthetic Efficiency of Microalgae and Plants with Different Levels of Complexity Exposed to a Simulated M-Dwarf Starlight
Authors: Battistuzzi Mariano , Cocola Lorenzo , Liistro Elisabetta , Claudi Riccardo , Poletto Luca , La Rocca Nicoletta
Published: July 2023

Oxygenic photosynthetic organisms (OPOs) are primary producers on Earth and generate surface and atmospheric biosignatures, making them ideal targets to search for life from remote on Earth-like exoplanets orbiting stars different from the Sun, such as M-dwarfs. These stars emit very low light in the visible and most light in the far-red, an issue for OPOs, which mostly utilize visible light to photosynthesize and grow. After successfully testing procaryotic OPOs (cyanobacteria) under a simulated M-dwarf star spectrum (M7, 365–850 nm) generated through a custom-made lamp, we tested several eukaryotic OPOs: microalgae (Dixoniella giordanoi, Microchloropsis gaditana, Chromera velia, Chlorella vulgaris), a non-vascular plant (Physcomitrium patens), and a vascular plant (Arabidopsis thaliana). We assessed their growth and photosynthetic efficiency under three light conditions: M7, solar (SOL) simulated spectra, and far-red light (FR). Microalgae grew similarly in SOL and M7, while the moss P. patens showed slower growth in M7 with respect to SOL. A. thaliana grew similarly in SOL and M7, showing traits typical of shade-avoidance syndrome. Overall, the synergistic effect of visible and far-red light, also known as the Emerson enhancing effect, could explain the growth in M7 for all organisms. These results lead to reconsidering the possibility and capability of the growth of OPOs and are promising for finding biosignatures on exoplanets orbiting the habitable zone of distant stars.