bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Rehabilitation and Physical Performance in Patients after Myocardial Infarction: Preliminary Research
Authors: Grochulska Agnieszka , Glowinski Sebastian , Bryndal Aleksandra
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Cardiovascular diseases, in particular, myocardial infarction (MI), are the main threats to human health in modern times. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR), and especially increased physical activity, significantly prevent the consequences of MI. The aim of this study was to assess physical performance in patients after MI before and after CR. (2) Methods: 126 patients after MI were examined. They were admitted to the cardiac rehabilitation ward twice: in the 3rd month after MI, and then in the 6th month after the last rehabilitation session. CR lasted 20 treatment days (4 weeks with 5 treatment days and 2 days’ break). The exercise stress test on the treadmill and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were used to assess physical performance. Patients were assigned to an appropriate rehabilitation model due to their health condition. (3) Results: In the studied group, the exercise stress test time and the metabolic equivalent of task (MET), the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), and 6MWT score increased significantly (p = 0.0001) at two time-points of observation. (4) Conclusion: CR significantly improves physical performance in patients after MI.
Clinical Radiographical Outcomes and Complications after a Brand-New Total Ankle Replacement Design through an Anterior Approach: A Retrospective at a Short-Term Follow Up
Authors: Mosca Massimiliano , Caravelli Silvio , Vocale Emanuele , Massimi Simone , Censoni Davide , Di Ponte Marco , Fuiano Mario , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: May 2021

Recently, the progress in techniques and in projecting new prosthetic designs has allowed increasing indications for total ankle replacement (TAR) as treatment for ankle osteoarthritis. This retrospective work comprehended 39 subjects aged between 47 and 79 years old. The patients, observed for at least 12 months (mean follow up of 18.2 ± 4.1 months), have been evaluated according to clinical and radiological parameters, both pre- and post-operatively. The AOFAS and VAS score significantly improved, respectively, from 46.2 ± 4.8 to 93.9 ± 4.1 and from 7.1 ± 1.1 to 0.7 ± 0.5 (p value < 0.05). At the final evaluation, the mean plantarflexion passed from 12.2° ± 2.3° to 18.1° ± 2.4° (p value < 0.05) and dorsiflexion from a pre-operative mean value of 8.7° ± 4.1° to 21.7° ± 5.4° post-operatively (p value < 0.05). This study found that this new total ankle replacement design is a safe and effective procedure for patients effected by end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. Improvements have been demonstrated in terms of range of motion, radiographic parameters and patient-reported outcomes. However, further studies are needed to assess the long-term performance of these prostheses.
Protocol and Evaluation of 3D-Planned Microsurgical and Dental Implant Reconstruction of Maxillary Cleft Critical Size Defects in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Dowgierd Krzysztof , Pokrowiecki Rafał , Borowiec Maciej , Sokolowska Zuzanna , Dowgierd Martyna , Wos Jan , Kozakiewicz Marcin , Krakowczyk Łukasz
Published: May 2021

Functional and esthetic final reconstruction of the cleft maxilla is still challenging. Current reconstructive and augmentation techniques do not provide sufficient bone and soft tissue support for the predictable rehabilitation with dental implants due to presence of maxillary bone critical size defects and soft tissue deficiency, scaring and poor vascularity. In this article the protocol for the use of 3D virtual surgical planning and microvascular tissue transfers for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of cleft maxilla is presented. Twenty-five patients (8 male/17 female) aged 14–41 years old with cleft-associated critical size defects were treated by 3D-virtual planned microvascular tissue transfers taken either from fibula, iliac crest, radial forearm, or medial femoral condyle. Follow-up lasted 1–5 years. No significant bone resorption (p > 0.005) nor volume loss of the graft was observed (p = 0.645). Patients received final permanent prosthetic reconstruction of the anterior maxilla based on 2–5 dental implants, depending on the defect severity. This is the first study presenting the use of virtual planning in the final restoration of the cleft maxilla with microvascular tissue transfers and dental implants. Presented protocol provide highly functional and aesthetic results.
High Interleukin-6 Plasma Concentration upon Admission Is Predictive of Massive Transfusion in Severely Injured Patients
Authors: Weichselbaum Nadja , Oberladstätter Daniel , Schlimp Christoph J. , Zipperle Johannes , Voelckel Wolfgang , Grottke Oliver , Zimmermann Georg , Osuchowski Marcin , Schöchl Herbert
Published: May 2021

Severe bleeding remains a prominent cause of early in-hospital mortality in major trauma patients. Thus, prompt prediction of patients at risk of massive transfusion (MT) is crucial. We investigated the ability of the inflammatory marker interleukin (IL)-6 to forecast MT in severely injured trauma patients. IL-6 plasma levels were measured upon admission. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were calculated, and sensitivity and specificity were determined. In this retrospective study, a total of 468 predominantly male (77.8%) patients, with a median injury severity score (ISS) of 25 (17–34), were included. The Youden index for the prediction of MT within 6 and 24 h was 351 pg/mL. Patients were dichotomized into two groups: (i) low-IL-6 < 350 pg/mL and (ii) high-IL-6 ≥ 350 pg/mL. IL-6 ≥ 350 pg/mL was associated with a lower prothrombin time index, a higher activated partial thromboplastin time, and a lower fibrinogen concentration compared with IL-6 < 350 pg/mL (p <0.0001 for all). Thromboelastometric parameters were significantly different between groups (p <0.03 in all). More patients in the high-IL-6 group received MT (p <0.0001). The ROCs revealed an area under the curve of 0.76 vs. 0.82 for the high-IL-6 group for receiving MT in the first 6 and 24 h. IL-6 ≥ 350 pg/mL predicted MT within 6 and 24 h with a sensitivity of 45% and 58%, respectively, and a specificity of 89%. IL-6 ≥ 350 pg/mL appears to be a reasonable early predictor for coagulopathy and MT within the first 6 and 24 h intervals. Large-scale prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Patient Characteristics and Clinical Course of COVID-19 Patients Treated at a German Tertiary Center during the First and Second Waves in the Year 2020
Authors: Brehm Thomas Theo , Heyer Andreas , Roedl Kevin , Jarczak Dominik , Nierhaus Axel , Nentwich Michael F , van der Meirschen Marc , Schultze Alexander , Christner Martin , Fiedler Walter , Kröger Nicolaus , Huber Tobias B , Klose Hans , Sterneck Martina , Jordan Sabine , Kreuels Benno , Schmiedel Stefan , Addo Marylyn M , Huber Samuel , Lohse Ansgar W , Kluge Stefan , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian
Published: May 2021

In this study, we directly compared coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients hospitalized during the first (27 February–28 July 2020) and second (29 July–31 December 2020) wave of the pandemic at a large tertiary center in northern Germany. Patients who presented during the first (n = 174) and second (n = 331) wave did not differ in age (median [IQR], 59 years [46, 71] vs. 58 years [42, 73]; p = 0.82) or age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (median [IQR], 2 [1, 4] vs. 2 [0, 4]; p = 0.50). During the second wave, a higher proportion of patients were treated as outpatients (11% [n = 20] vs. 20% [n = 67]), fewer patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (43% [n = 75] vs. 29% [n = 96]), and duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter (median days [IQR], 14 [8, 34] vs. 11 [5, 19]; p < 0.001). However, in-hospital mortality was high throughout the pandemic and did not differ between the two periods (16% [n = 27] vs. 16% [n = 54]; p = 0.89). While novel treatment strategies and increased knowledge about the clinical management of COVID-19 may have resulted in a less severe disease course in some patients, in-hospital mortality remained unaltered at a high level. These findings highlight the unabated need for efforts to hamper severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission, to increase vaccination coverage, and to develop novel treatment strategies to prevent mortality and decrease morbidity.
Updates on Children with Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma during the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Brindisi Giulia , De Vittori Valentina , De Nola Rosalba , Pignataro Elia , Anania Caterina , De Castro Giovanna , Cinicola Bianca , Gori Alessandra , Cicinelli Ettore , Zicari Anna Maria
Published: May 2021

Background: During the lockdown period caused by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, we monitored via online survey the trend of allergic symptoms and the therapeutic compliance in patients followed at our center. Material and methods: In June 2020, we selected children followed at the Allergy and Immunology Service of Umberto I Hospital, aged between 6 and 16 years old, diagnosed with asthma and/or rhinitis and sensitized to grass pollen or dust mite. We sent an email with 12 multiple-choice questions investigating several areas: type of disease and sensitization, recurrence of symptoms, medication use during lockdown compared to the same period of the previous year. Results: The results of 82 questionnaires showed that 17.8% of patients suffered from asthma, 24.4% from rhinitis, and 57.8% from both. Within the group of asthmatic children, most of them presented an improvement of their symptoms. Likewise, with regard to allergic rhinitis, most of them reported better clinical conditions. Regarding treatment, we observed a global decrease in the use of on-demand therapies (salbutamol, nasal corticosteroid, and antihistamine) for both pathologies. In addition, there was a reduction in the use of basal therapy for asthma and rhinitis from 2019 (23.3%) to 2020 (15.5%). Conclusions: Our data show a general trend of clinical improvement and a reduction in the use of on-demand and basal therapy in allergic children during the lockdown.
Maneuverability and Hydrodynamics of a Tethered Underwater Robot Based on Mixing Grid Technique
Authors: Wu Jiaming , Xu Shunyuan , Liao Hua , Ma Chenghua , Yang Xianyuan , Wang Haotian , Zhang Tian , Han Xiangxi
Published: May 2021

The maneuverability and hydrodynamic performance of the tethered underwater robot in a uniform flow field is investigated. In this research, a tethered underwater robot symmetrically installed with NACA66 hydrofoils and Ka 4-70/19A ducted propellers around its main body is first constructed. The method of overlapping grid combined with sliding mesh is applied in the numerical simulations, and the principle of relative motion is adopted to describe the hydrodynamic responses of the tethered underwater robot during the robot manipulation. The reliability of the CFD methods applied in this research is verified by experimental results, and the comparison between numerical and experimental ones shows that there is very little difference being found. The numerical results indicate that computational cost due to the research’s large-scale domain can be effectively reduced by the adopted numerical methods, hydrofoils’ control effect is greatly influenced by the towing speeds, and thrusts issued from the ducted propellers are related to the tethered underwater robot’s position and towing speed.
The Relationship between Subtypes of Health Literacy and Self-Care Behavior in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Yu Ping-Shaou , Tsai Yi-Chun , Chiu Yi-Wen , Hsiao Pei-Ni , Lin Ming-Yen , Chen Tzu-Hui , Wang Shu-Li , Kung Lan-Fang , Hsiao Shih-Ming , Hwang Shang-Jyh , Kuo Mei-Chuan
Published: May 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health issue that is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Self-care behavior has been associated with clinical outcomes in chronic diseases, and adequate self-care behavior may mitigate adverse outcomes. Health literacy may be an important factor associated with self-care. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between different domains of self-care behavior and health literacy in patients with CKD. This study enrolled 208 patients with CKD stages 1–5 who were not undergoing renal replacement therapy at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital from April 2019 to January 2020. Health literacy was measured using a multidimensional health literacy questionnaire covering the following five dimensions: accessing, understanding, appraising, and applying health information, and communication/interaction. The CKD Self-Care scale, which is a 16-item questionnaire with five domains including medication adherence, diet control, exercise, smoking behavior, and home blood pressure monitoring was used to assess self-care behavior. Among the 208 patients, 97 had sufficient or excellent health literacy, and 111 had inadequate or limited/problematic health literacy. A higher health literacy score was significantly correlated with greater self-care behavior. Among the five domains of self-care behavior, the patients who had sufficient or excellent health literacy had higher diet, exercise, and home blood pressure monitoring scores than those who had inadequate or limited/problematic health literacy. This study demonstrated that health literacy was significantly and positively correlated with self-care behavior in patients with CKD.
Effect of a Music Therapy Intervention Using Gerdner and Colleagues’ Protocol for Caregivers and Elderly Patients with Dementia: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: D’Aniello Guido Edoardo , Cammisuli Davide Maria , Cattaneo Alice , Manzoni Gian Mauro , Molinari Enrico , Castelnuovo Gianluca
Published: May 2021

Music therapy (MT) is considered one of the complementary strategies to pharmacological treatment for behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD) of dementia. However, studies adopting MT protocols tailored for institutionalized people with dementia are limited and their usefulness for supporting caregivers is under investigated to date. Our study aimed at evaluating the effects of an MT intervention according to Gerdner and colleagues’ protocol in a sample of 60 elderly people with moderate-to-severe dementia of the Auxologico Institute (Milan, Italy) and associated caregivers, randomly assigned to an Experimental Group (EG) (n = 30) undergoing 30 min of MT two times a week for 8 weeks and to a Control Group (n = 30) (CG) receiving standard care. Before and after the intervention, residents-associated caregivers were administered the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). Depression and worry were also assessed in caregivers prior to the intervention, by the Beck Depression Inventory-II and the Penn State Worry Questionnaire, respectively. A mixed model ANCOVA revealed a Time*Group effect (p = 0.006) with regard to CBI decreasing after the intervention for the EG and Time*Group effects (p = 0.001) with regard to NPI_frequencyXseverity and NPI_distress, with a greater effect for the EG than the CG. Implications for MT protocols implementations are discussed.
Comparing the Impact of COVID-19 on Nurses’ Turnover Intentions before and during the Pandemic in Qatar
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Abujaber Ahmad A. , Villar Ralph C. , Nazarene Ananth , Al-Jabry Mahmood M. , Fradelos Evangelos C.
Published: May 2021

Background: Although several studies examining nurses’ turnover intentions have been conducted, few studies have been conducted to explore how COVID-19 contributes to nurses’ turnover intentions. This study aims to compare nurses’ turnover (TO) intentions before and during COVID-19. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted using the Turnover Intention Scale (TIS-6) and a convenience sample of participants from the largest healthcare provider in Qatar between August and September 2020. Results: A total of 512 nurses were included in the final analysis. The majority were between 31 and 40 years of age (61.5%), 67.6% were females, 76.4% were married, 79.7% had a BSN, 43% had less than 5 years of experience, and 60.4% had worked in COVID-19 designated facilities. The turnover intentions were higher compared with before COVID-19 (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Nurses in Qatar have higher TO intentions during COVID-19. The participants’ characteristics and stress levels are playing a major role in nurses’ decision to leave during COVID-19. Understanding the factors that contribute to turnover intentions is crucial for workforce planning, especially during pandemics.
Evaluation of 1β-Hydroxylation of Deoxycholic Acid as a Non-Invasive Urinary Biomarker of CYP3A Activity in the Assessment of Inhibition-Based Drug–Drug Interaction in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Li Xue-Qing , Thelingwani Roslyn Stella , Bertilsson Leif , Diczfalusy Ulf , Andersson Tommy B. , Masimirembwa Collen
Published: May 2021

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the utility of endogenous 1β-hydroxy-deoxycholic acid/total deoxycholic acid ratio (1β-OH-DCA/ToDCA) in spot urine as a surrogate marker of cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) activity in the assessment inhibition-based drug–drug interactions in healthy volunteers. This was accomplished through an open-label, three-treatment parallel-arm study in healthy male volunteers from Zimbabwe. Each group received itraconazole (ITZ; 100 mg once daily; n = 10), fluconazole (FKZ; 50 mg once daily; n = 9), or alprazolam (APZ; 1 mg once daily; n = 8) orally. Midazolam (MDZ), dosed orally and intravenously, was used as a comparator to validate the exploratory measures of CYP3A activity and the effects of known inhibitors. Urinary metabolic ratios of 1β-OH-DCA/ToDCA before and after CYP3A inhibitor treatment showed a similar magnitude of inhibitory effects of the three treatments as that measured by oral MDZ clearance. The maximum inhibition effect of a 75% reduction in the 1β-OH-DCA/ToDCA ratio compared to the baseline was achieved in the ITZ group following six once-daily doses of 100 mg. The correlations of the two markers for CYP3A inhibitor treatment were significant (rs = 0.53, p < 0.01). The half-life of urinary endogenous 1β-OH-DCA/ToDCA was estimated as four days. These results suggested that 1β-OH-DCA/ToDCA in spot urine is a promising convenient, non-invasive, sensitive, and relatively quickly responsive endogenous biomarker that can be used for CYP3A inhibition-based drug–drug interaction in clinical studies.
Dynamic Collaborations for the Development of Immune Checkpoint Blockade Agents
Authors: Djurian Arisa , Makino Tomohiro , Lim Yeongjoo , Sengoku Shintaro , Kodama Kota
Published: May 2021

We studied the overview of drug discovery and development to understand the recent trends and potential success factors of interorganizational collaboration by reviewing 1204 transactions performed until 2019 for 107 anticancer drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 1999 to 2018. Immune checkpoint blockade was found to be a significantly active area in interorganizational transactions, especially the number of alliances, compared with other mechanisms of action of small molecules and biologics for cancer treatment. Furthermore, the analysis of pembrolizumab and nivolumab showed that the number of approved indications for these two drugs has been rapidly expanding since their first approval in 2014. Examination of the acquisitions and alliances regarding pembrolizumab and nivolumab showed that many combination partners were developed by US-based biotechnology or start-up companies, the majority of which were biologics. These findings suggest that immune checkpoint blockade is a paradigm for cancer treatment, resulting in huge product sales and continuous indication expansion. Additionally, interorganizational collaboration, especially trial collaboration, is a strategic approach for the development of immune checkpoint blockade agents. The translation of these empirical practices to new drug candidates is expected for the research and development of innovative drugs in the future.
The Orthopedic-Vascular Multidisciplinary Approach Improves Patient Safety in Surgery for Musculoskeletal Tumors: A Large-Volume Center Experience
Authors: Angelini Andrea , Piazza Michele , Pagliarini Elisa , Trovarelli Giulia , Spertino Andrea , Ruggieri Pietro
Published: May 2021

Objective: Wide-margin resection is mandatory for malignant bone and soft tissue tumors. However, this increases the complexity of resections, especially when vessels are involved. Patients in this high-risk clinical setting could be surgically treated using the multidisciplinary orthopedic-vascular approach. This study was carried out in this healthcare organization to evaluate patient safety in term of oncologic outcomes and reduction of the complication rate. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 74 patients (37 males, 37 females; mean age 46 years, range 9–88) who underwent surgical excision for bone/soft tissue malignant tumors closely attached to vascular structures from October 2015 to February 2019. Vascular surgery consisted of isolation of at least one vessel (64 patients), bypass reconstruction (9 patients), and end-to-end anastomosis (1 patient). Mean follow-up was 27 months. Patients’ demographics, tumor characteristics, adjuvant treatments, type of orthopedic and vascular procedures, and oncologic and functional outcomes and complications were recorded. Results: Overall survival was 85% at 3 years follow-up. In total, 22 patients experienced at least one major complication requiring further surgery and 13 patients experienced at least one minor complication, whereas 17 reported deviations from the normal postoperative course without the need for pharmacological or interventional treatment. Major complications were higher in pelvic resections compared to limb-salvage procedures (p = 0.0564) and when surgical time was more than 4 h (p = 0.0364) at univariate analysis, whereas the most important multivariate independent predictors for major complications were pelvic resection (p = 0.0196) and preoperative radiotherapy (p = 0.0426). Conclusions: A multidisciplinary ortho-vascular approach for resection of malignant bone and soft tissue tumors tightly attached to important vascular structures should be considered a good clinical practice for patient safety.
The Prevalence of Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Selected Regions of the Russian Federation: The FH-ESSE-RF Study
Authors: Meshkov Alexey , Ershova Alexandra , Kiseleva Anna , Shalnova Svetlana , Drapkina Oxana , Boytsov Sergey ,   on behalf of the FH-ESSE-RF Investigators
Published: May 2021

Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) is one of the most common genetic conditions but remains substantially underdiagnosed. The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of HeFH in the population of 11 different regions of Russia. Individuals were selected from the Epidemiology of Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Diseases in Regions of the Russian Federation Study. All participants who had low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) higher than 4.9 mmol/L, or LDL-C lower than 4.9 mmol/L, but had statin therapy, were additionally examined by FH experts. FH was diagnosed using the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria, incorporating genetic testing. HeFH prevalence was assessed for 18,142 participants. The prevalence of patients with definite or probable HeFH combined was 0.58% (1 in 173). A total of 16.1% of patients with definite or probable HeFH had tendon xanthomas; 36.2% had mutations in one of the three genes; 45.6% of FH patients had coronary artery disease; 63% of HeFH patients received statins; one patient received an additional PCSK9 inhibitor; no patients received ezetimibe. Only 3% of patients reached the LDL-C goal based on 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines. Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of FH in Russia underline the need for the intensification of FH detection with early and aggressive cholesterol-lowering treatment.
Derivation of Heat Conductivity from Temperature and Heat Flux Measurements in Soil
Authors: Stepanenko Victor , Repina Irina , Artamonov Arseniy
Published: May 2021

The general inverse problem formulation for a heat conductance equation is adopted for the types of measurement routinely carried out in the soil active layer. The problem solution delivers a constant thermal diffusivity coefficient a0 (in general, different from true value a) and respective heat conductivity λ0 for the layer, located between two temperature sensors and equipped with a temperature or heat flux sensor in the middle. We estimated the error of solution corresponding to systematic shifts in sensor readings and mislocation of sensors in the soil column. This estimation was carried out by a series of numerical experiments using boundary conditions from observations on Mukhrino wetland (Western Siberia, Russia), performed in summer, 2019. Numerical results were corroborated by analytical estimates of inverse problem solution sensitivity derived from classical Fourier law. The main finding states that heat conductivity error due to systematic shifts in temperature measurements become negligible when using long temperature series, whereas the relative error of a is approximately twice the relative error of sensor depth. The error a0−a induced by heat flux plate displacement from expected depth is 3–5 times less than the same displacement of thermometers, which makes the requirements for heat flux installation less rigid. However, the relative errors of heat flux observation typical for modern sensors (±15%) cause the uncertainty of a above 15% in absolute value. Comparison of the inverse problem solution to a estimated from in situ moss sampling on Mukhrino wetland proves the feasibility of the method and corroborates the conclusions of the error sensitivity study.
Stakeholders’ Participation in Sustainable Tourism Planning for a Rural Region: Extremadura Case Study (Spain)
Authors: Sánchez-Oro Sánchez Marcelo , Castro-Serrano José , Robina-Ramírez Rafael
Published: May 2021

The objective of this research is to obtain and analyze discursive information on the problems and solutions of the tourism sector in an eminently rural region, such as Extremadura, based on the opinions of stakeholders, in order to incorporate them into the evaluation and tourism planning of the region. More specifically, on the situation of the sector, perceptions on profitability and return on investment, the problem of overnight stays, and coordination between tourism agents and training demands, in order to make a sustainable tourism sector in a rural region. The research starts from the following premise: for tourism to be sustainable, stakeholders must participate in the strategic decision-making process. This paper aims, on the one hand, to clarify sufficiently the state of the art regarding the validity of focus groups and their analysis as a research methodology, explaining how to address the main challenges implied by this technique by reviewing a selection of research works that we consider relevant in this field. On the other hand, an analysis of the tourism sector in Extremadura is carried out based on these group dynamics. The main result, after analyzing the discourse of six focus groups, is that the different opinions of their members reveal, despite everything, that the training of human capital in the tourism sector in rural environments is a pending issue.
BiTEs, DARTS, BiKEs and TriKEs—Are Antibody Based Therapies Changing the Future Treatment of AML?
Authors: Allen Cecily , Zeidan Amer M. , Bewersdorf Jan Philipp
Published: May 2021

Nearly four decades after their conceptualization, antibody-based therapies are slowly being added to the treatment landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). While the antibody–drug conjugate gemtuzumab ozogamicin is the only antibody-based therapy that has been approved for AML treatment thus far, several bispecific antibodies have been developed and shown early encouraging results. Bispecific antibodies comprise a wide variety of constructs that share the common concept of simultaneous binding of a surface target on malignant cells and most commonly CD3 on T cells leading to an endogenous, HLA-independent, immune response against malignant cells. However, the use of bispecific antibodies in AML has been limited by the absence of highly specific leukemia-associated antigens leading to on-target, off-leukemia side effects as well as reduced efficacy due to antigen escape. Herein, we discuss the history and evolution of bispecific T cell engagers as well as various adaptations such as dual affinity retargeting antibodies, bi- and tri-specific killer engager antibodies. Common side effects including cytokine release syndrome and management thereof are highlighted. Lastly, we expound on the future direction and integration of such antibody-based therapies with other immunotherapies (programmed cell death-1 inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T cells).
Antiplatelet Effects of PCSK9 Inhibitors in Primary Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Pęczek Piotr , Leśniewski Mateusz , Mazurek Tomasz , Szarpak Lukasz , Filipiak Krzysztof J. , Gąsecka Aleksandra
Published: May 2021

Proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors are a novel group of hypolipidemic drugs that are recommended particularly for high-risk hypercholesterolemia patients, including those with primary hypercholesterolemia (PH), where lifelong exposure to high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels results in an elevated risk of atherosclerosis at an early age. The onset and progression of atherosclerosis is significantly influenced by activated platelets. Oxidized LDL influences platelet activation by interacting with their surface receptors and remodeling the composition of their cell membrane. This results in platelet aggregation, endothelial cell activation, promotion of inflammation and oxidative stress, and acceleration of lipid accumulation in atherosclerotic plaques. PCSK9 inhibitors reduce platelet activation by both significantly lowering LDL levels and reducing the LDL receptor-mediated activation of platelets by PCSK9. They also work synergistically with other hypolipidemic and antithrombotic drugs, including statins, ezetimibe, acetylsalicylic acid, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor, which enhances their antiplatelet and LDL-lowering effects. In this review, we summarize the currently available evidence on platelet hyperreactivity in PH, the effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on platelets, and their synergism with other drugs used in PH therapy.
Personalized Nutrition Approach in Pregnancy and Early Life to Tackle Childhood and Adult Non-Communicable Diseases
Authors: Alabduljabbar Shaikha , Zaidan Sara Al , Lakshmanan Arun Prasath , Terranegra Annalisa
Published: May 2021

The development of childhood and adult non-communicable diseases (NCD) is associated with environmental factors, starting from intrauterine life. A new theory finds the roots of epigenetic programming in parental gametogenesis, continuing during embryo development, fetal life, and finally in post-natal life. Maternal health status and poor nutrition are widely recognized as implications in the onset of childhood and adult diseases. Early nutrition, particularly breastfeeding, also plays a primary role in affecting the health status of an individual later in life. A poor maternal diet during pregnancy and lack of breastfeeding can cause a nutrient deficiency that affects the gut microbiota, and acts as a cofactor for many pathways, impacting the epigenetic controls and transcription of genes involved in the metabolism, angiogenesis, and other pathways, leading to NCDs in adult life. Both maternal and fetal genetic backgrounds also affect nutrient adsorption and functioning at the cellular level. This review discusses the most recent evidence on maternal nutrition and breastfeeding in the development of NCD, the potentiality of the omics technologies in uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying it, with the future prospective of applying a personalized nutrition approach to prevent and treat NCD from the beginning of fetal life.
Mean Platelet Volume as a Potential Marker of Large Vessel Occlusion and Predictor of Outcome in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated with Reperfusion Therapy
Authors: Dębiec Aleksander , Pogoda-Wesołowska Aleksandra , Piasecki Piotr , Stępień Adam , Staszewski Jacek
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: An early diagnosis of a large vessel occlusion (LVO) is crucial in the management of the acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The laboratory predictors of LVO and a stroke outcome remain unknown. We have hypothesized that high MPV—a surrogate marker of the activated platelet—may be associated with LVO, and it may predict a worse AIS outcome. (2) Methods: This was a retrospective study of 361 patients with AIS who were treated with thrombolysis (tPA, 65.7%) and/or mechanical thrombectomy (MT, 34.3%) in a tertiary Stroke Center between 2011 and 2019. (3) Results: The mean MPV in the cohort was 9.86 ± 1.5 fL (1st–4th quartiles: <8.8, >10.80 fL). Patients in the 4th quartile compared to the 1st had a significantly (p < 0.01) more often incidence of an LVO related stroke (75% vs. 39%) and a severe stroke manifestation with a higher RACE score (5.2 ± 2.8 vs. 3.3 ± 2.4), NIHSS at baseline (mean ± SD, 14 ± 6.5 vs. 10.9 ± 5.2), and NIHSS at discharge (6.9 ± 7 vs. 3.9 ± 3.6). A multivariate analysis revealed that quartiles of MPV (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.2–1.8) significantly predicted an LVO stroke, also after the adjustment for RACE < 5 (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.08–1.89), but MPV quartiles did not predict a favorable stroke outcome (mRS ≤ 2) (OR 0.89; 95%CI 0.7–1.13). (4) Conclusion: Our data suggest that MPV is an independent predictor of LVO in patients with an acute ischemic stroke.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of AF-13, an Antioxidant Compound Isolated from the Polar Fraction of Allomyrina dichotoma Larva, in Palmitate-Induced INS-1 Cells
Authors: Kim Kyong , Park Eun-Young , Baek Dong-Jae , Kim Chul-Young , Oh Yoon-Sin
Published: May 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate the fractions isolated from Allomyrina dichotoma larva extract (ADLE) that exhibited anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. A total of 13 fractions were eluted from ADLE by centrifugal chromatography (CPC), and the polar AF-13 fraction was selected, which exerted a relatively protective effect against fat-induced toxicity in INS-1 cells. AF-13 treatment of palmitate-treated INS-1 cells decreased the expression level of apoptosis-related proteins and DNA fragmentation. AF-13 also significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species and the triglyceride content induced by palmitate, and the effect was found to be similar to that with ADLE treatment. Palmitate upregulated the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) through the activation of NF-κB p65; however, this effect was significantly attenuated by AF-13 treatment. In conclusion, AF-13 is one of the major components of ADLE responsible for anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities.
Can Ultrasound Therapy Be an Environmental-Friendly Alternative to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment?
Authors: Ungur Rodica Ana , Ciortea Viorela Mihaela , Irsay Laszlo , Ciubean Alina Deniza , Năsui Bogdana Adriana , Codea Răzvan Andrei , Singurean Victoria Emilia , Groza Oana Bianca , Căinap Simona , Martiș (Petruț) Georgiana Smaranda , Borda Cristin , Borda Ileana Monica
Published: May 2021

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most used drugs in knee osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. Despite their efficiency in pain and inflammation alleviation, NSAIDs accumulate in the environment as chemical pollutants and have numerous genetic, morphologic, and functional negative effects on plants and animals. Ultrasound (US) therapy can improve pain, inflammation, and function in knee OA, without impact on environment, and with supplementary metabolic beneficial effects on cartilage compared to NSAIDs. These features recommend US therapy as alternative for NSAIDs use in knee OA treatment.
Mechanical, Chemical, and Processing Properties of Specimens Manufactured from Poly-Ether-Ether-Ketone (PEEK) Using 3D Printing
Authors: Mrówka Maciej , Machoczek Tomasz , Jureczko Paweł , Joszko Kamil , Gzik Marek , Wolański Wojciech , Wilk Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

As part of the experiments herein, the mechanical properties of specimens made of poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) material using 3D printing technology were determined. Two populations of specimens were investigated, the first of which contained an amorphous structure, while the other held a crystal structure. The studies also investigated the influence of the print directionality on the mechanical properties obtained. Static tensile, three-point bending, and impact tests were carried out. The results for the effect of the structure type on the tensile properties showed that the modulus of elasticity was approximately 20% higher for the crystal than for the amorphous PEEK form. The Poisson’s ratios were similar, but the ratio was slightly higher for the amorphous samples than the crystalline ones. Furthermore, the studies included a chemical PEEK modification to increase the hydrophilicity. For this purpose, nitrite and hydroxyl groups were introduced into the chain by chemical reactions. The results demonstrate that the modified PEEK specimens had worse thermoplastic properties than the unmodified specimens.
Effect of Benzotriazole on the Localized Corrosion of Copper Covered with Carbonaceous Residue
Authors: Lee Yun-Ho , Hong Min-Sung , Ko Sang-Jin , Kim Jung-Gu
Published: May 2021

Carbonaceous residues on copper pipes during the manufacturing process are known to be one of the main causes of pitting corrosion on copper pipes. This study examined the corrosion-inhibiting effect of benzotriazole (BTA) on C12200 copper pipes with carbonaceous film in synthetic tap water. In the absence of BTA, localized corrosion mechanisms due to galvanic corrosion, crevice corrosion, and oxygen-concentration cell were proposed in the boundary part of the carbonaceous film on the copper through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analyses. Electrochemical tests showed that BTA inhibits corrosion by forming Cu−BTA complexes on all over the copper surface where carbonaceous film is present. BTA mitigates galvanic corrosion and crevice corrosion at the boundary of the carbonaceous film and suppresses the formation of oxygen-concentration cells through the formation of a Cu−BTA complex.
An Evaluation of the Properties of Urethane Dimethacrylate-Based Dental Resins
Authors: Szczesio-Wlodarczyk Agata , Domarecka Monika , Kopacz Karolina , Sokolowski Jerzy , Bociong Kinga
Published: May 2021

Most of the dental materials available on the market are still based on traditional monomers such as bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and ethoxylated bisphenol-A dimethacrylate (Bis-EMA). The interactions that arise in the monomer mixture and the characteristics of the resulting polymer network are the most important factors, which define the final properties of dental materials. The use of three different monomers in proper proportions may create a strong polymer matrix. In this paper, fourteen resin materials, based on urethane dimethacrylate with different co-monomers such as Bis-GMA or Bis-EMA, were evaluated. TEGDMA was used as the diluting monomer. The flexural strength (FS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), and hardness (HV) were determined. The impacts of material composition on the water absorption and dissolution were evaluated as well. The highest FS was 89.5 MPa, while the lowest was 69.7 MPa. The median DTS for the tested materials was found to range from 20 to 30 MPa. The hardness of the tested materials ranged from 14 to 16 HV. UDMA/TEGDMA matrices were characterized by the highest adsorption values. The overall results indicated that changes in the materials’ properties are not strictly proportional to the material’s compositional changes. The matrices showed good properties when the composite contained an equal mixture of Bis-GMA/Bis-EMA and UDMA or the content of the UDMA monomer was higher.
Mechanical and Combustion Properties of Agglomerates of Wood of Popular Eastern European Species
Authors: Molenda Marek , Horabik Józef , Parafiniuk Piotr , Oniszczuk Anna , Bańda Maciej , Wajs Justyna , Gondek Ewa , Chutkowski Marcin , Lisowski Aleksander , Wiącek Joanna , Stasiak Mateusz
Published: May 2021

The objective of the reported project was to produce wood agglomerates from popular East European species to determine their strength and combustion properties. Closed-die pellets were produced from sawdust of six types of wood common on the East European market: pine, willow, oak, poplar, birch, and beech. The properties of pellets, determined by the type of wood, were influenced by the compaction pressure and the moisture content of the sawdust. The highest average pellet density was obtained for oak sawdust, while the lowest density was obtained for poplar pellets. Expansion of pellets after removing from the die was found to be dependent on the wood species, and as expected, on compaction pressure. The pellet expansion increased after 2 h of conditioning in the laboratory and with an increase in moisture content. The highest and the smallest strength were obtained for oak pellets and for birch sawdust, respectively. The strength of the pellets increased by more than 100% with an increase in the compaction pressure from 60 MPa to 120 MPa. The average strength decreased by 65% with increasing moisture content. For all tested materials, drop resistance remained at a high level, acceptable in industrial practice. The highest calorific value of 18.97 MJ/kg was obtained for pine pellets. The highest ash value of 1.52% was obtained for willow pellets and the lowest value of 0.32% for pine pellets.
Effect of the Order-Disorder Transition on the Electronic Structure and Physical Properties of Layered CuCrS2
Authors: Korotaev Evgeniy V. , Syrokvashin Mikhail M. , Filatova Irina Yu. , Sotnikov Aleksandr V.
Published: May 2021

The work reports a comprehensive study of the Seebeck coefficient, electrical resistivity and heat capacity of CuCrS2 in a wide temperature range of 100–740 K. It was shown that the value of the Seebeck coefficient is significantly affected by the sample treatment procedure. The order-to-disorder (ODT) phase transition was found to cause a metal-insulator transition (MIT). It was established that the ODT diminishes the Seebeck coefficient at high temperatures (T > 700 K). The DFT calculations of the CuCrS2 electronic structure showed that the localization of copper atoms in octahedral sites makes the band gap vanish due to the MIT. The decrease of CuCrS2 electrical resistivity in the ODT temperature region corresponds to the MIT.
Mechanical Strength and Hydration Characteristics of Cement Mixture with Highly Concentrated Hydrogen Nanobubble Water
Authors: Kim Won-Kyung , Hong Gigwon , Kim Young-Ho , Kim Jong-Min , Kim Jin , Han Jung-Geun , Lee Jong-Young
Published: May 2021

In this study, highly concentrated hydrogen nanobubble water was utilized as the blending water for cement mortar to improve its compressive and flexural strengths. Highly concentrated nanobubbles can be obtained through osmosis. This concentration was maintained by sustaining the osmotic time. The mortar specimens were cured for 28 days, in which the nanobubble concentration was increased. This improved their flexural strength by 2.25–13.48% and compressive strength by 6.41–11.22%, as compared to those afforded by plain water. The nanobubbles were densified at high concentrations, which caused a decrease in their diameter. This increased the probability of collisions with the cement particles and accelerated the hydration and pozzolanic reactions, which facilitated an increase in the strength of cement. Thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy were used to confirm the development of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and hydration products with an increase in the nanobubble concentration. Quantitative analysis of the hydration products and the degree of hydration were calculated by mineralogical analysis.
Influence of Different Types of Cemented Carbide Blades and Coating Thickness on Structure and Properties of TiN/AlTiN and TiAlN/a-C:N Coatings Deposited by PVD Techniques for Machining of Wood-Based Materials
Authors: Kucharska Beata , Sobiecki Jerzy Robert , Czarniak Pawel , Szymanowski Karol , Cymerman Konrad , Moszczyńska Dorota , Panjan Peter
Published: May 2021

The influence of different types of cemented carbide blades and thickness of TiAlN/a-C:N and TiN/AlTiN protective coatings used in the wood industry on cutting performance has been studied. Three types of WC-Co cemented carbide blades with different cobalt content were used in the study. The thicknesses of both types of coatings were ~2 and ~5 µm. The structure, chemical and phase composition were studied using transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM, SEM), X-ray dispersion spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The adhesion was evaluated by scratch test. Nanohardness and durability tests of uncoated and coated blades were performed. We found that the blades covered with 5 µm TiN/AlTiN coatings exhibited the best durability characteristic. The cutting distances were within the range ~6700-~7080 depending on the substrates in comparison with pure substrates (~4300–~4900) and 2 µm TiN/AlTiN coatings (~5400–~6600). The presence of a thin and soft outer a-C:N layer aggravates the nanohardness and durability of the coated blades.
Adhesion to Zirconia: A Systematic Review of Surface Pretreatments and Resin Cements
Authors: Comino-Garayoa Rubén , Peláez Jesús , Tobar Celia , Rodríguez Verónica , Suárez María Jesús
Published: May 2021

This systematic review aims to evaluate the different pretreatments of the zirconia surface and resin cement in order to determine a valid operative protocol for adhesive cementation. Methodologies conducted for this study followed the Prisma (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. An electronic search was performed in four databases. The established focus question was: “What type of surface conditioning method is the one that obtains the best adhesion values to zirconia over time by applying a resin cement?” Forty-five relevant papers were found to qualify for final inclusion. In total, 260 different surface pretreatment methods, mainly combinations of air-abrasion protocols and adhesive promoters, were investigated. Altogether, the use of two artificial aging methods, three types of cement and four testing methods was reported. The results showed that mechanicochemical surface pretreatments offered the best adhesive results. Self-adhesive cement and those containing 10-MDP obtained the best results in adhesion to zirconia. Artificial aging reduced adhesion, so storage in water for 30 days or thermocycling for 5000 cycles is recommended. A standardized adhesive protocol has not been established due to a lack of evidence