bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VEGF Mediates Retinal Müller Cell Viability and Neuroprotection through BDNF in Diabetes
Authors: Le Yun-Zheng , Xu Bei , Chucair-Elliott Ana J. , Zhang Huiru , Zhu Meili
Published: May 2021

To investigate the mechanism of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Müller cell (MC) viability and neuroprotection in diabetic retinopathy (DR), we examined the role of VEGF in MC viability and BDNF production, and the effect of BDNF on MC viability under diabetic conditions. Mouse primary MCs and cells of a rat MC line, rMC1, were used in investigating MC viability and BDNF production under diabetic conditions. VEGF-stimulated BDNF production was confirmed in mice. The mechanism of BDNF-mediated MC viability was examined using siRNA knockdown. Under diabetic conditions, recombinant VEGF (rVEGF) stimulated MC viability and BDNF production in a dose-dependent manner. rBDNF also supported MC viability in a dose-dependent manner. Targeting BDNF receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TRK-B) with siRNA knockdown substantially downregulated the activated (phosphorylated) form of serine/threonine-specific protein kinase (AKT) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), classical survival and proliferation mediators. Finally, the loss of MC viability in TrkB siRNA transfected cells under diabetic conditions was rescued by rBDNF. Our results provide direct evidence that VEGF is a positive regulator for BDNF production in diabetes for the first time. This information is essential for developing BDNF-mediated neuroprotection in DR and hypoxic retinal diseases, and for improving anti-VEGF treatment for these blood–retina barrier disorders, in which VEGF is a major therapeutic target for vascular abnormalities.
Circadian Rhythm of NER and ATR Pathways
Authors: Kang Tae-Hong
Published: May 2021

Genomic integrity is constantly insulted by solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Adaptative cellular mechanisms called DNA damage responses comprising DNA repair, cell cycle checkpoint, and apoptosis, are believed to be evolved to limit genomic instability according to the photoperiod during a day. As seen in many other key cellular metabolisms, genome surveillance mechanisms against genotoxic UV radiation are under the control of circadian clock systems, thereby exhibiting daily oscillations in their catalytic activities. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that nucleotide excision repair (NER), the sole DNA repair mechanism correcting UV-induced DNA photolesions, and ataxia–telangiectasia-mutated and Rad3-related (ATR)-mediated cell cycle checkpoint kinase are subjected to the robust control of the circadian clock. The molecular foundation for the circadian rhythm of UV-induced DNA damage responses in mammalian cells will be discussed.
Treatment of Rare Mutations in Patients with Lung Cancer
Authors: Taha Tarek , Khoury Rasha , Brenner Ronen , Nasrallah Haitam , Shofaniyeh Irena , Yousef Samih , Agbarya Abed
Published: May 2021

Lung cancer is a worldwide prevalent malignancy. This disease has a low survival rate due to diagnosis at a late stage challenged by the involvement of metastatic sites. Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is presented in 85% of cases. The last decade has experienced substantial advancements in scientific research, leading to a novel targeted therapeutic approach. The newly developed pharmaceutical agents are aimed towards specific mutations, detected in individual patients inflicted by lung cancer. These drugs have longer and improved response rates compared to traditional chemotherapy. Recent studies were able to identify rare mutations found in pulmonary tumors. Among the gene alterations detected were mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (MET), human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2), B-type Raf kinase (BRAF), c-ROS proto-oncogene (ROS1), rearranged during transfection (RET) and neurotrophic tyrosine kinase (NTRK). Ongoing clinical trials are gaining insight onto possible first and second lines of medical treatment options intended to enable progression-free survival to lung cancer patients.
Non-Enzymatic Glucose Biosensor Based on Highly Pure TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Jeong Hongin , Yoo Jhongryul , Park Seokyung , Lu Jiling , Park Sungho , Lee Jeseung
Published: May 2021

This study proposes a non-enzymatic glucose sensor fabricated by synthesizing high-purity TiO2 nanoparticles in thermal plasma and depositing it directly on a substrate and then depositing chitosan–polypyrrole (CS-PPy) conductive polymer films by electrochemical method. The structural properties of the deposited TiO2 nanoparticles were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) system. The chemical composition and structural properties of the TiO2 nanoparticle layer and the conductive polymer films were confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The glucose detection characteristics of the fabricated biosensor were determined by cyclic voltammetry (CV). CS-PPy/TiO2 biosensor showed high sensitivity of 302.0 µA mM−1 cm−2 (R2 = 0.9957) and low detection limit of 6.7 μM. The easily manufactured CS-PPy/TiO2 biosensor showed excellent selectivity and reactivity.
Towards Smart Campus Management: Defining Information Requirements for Decision Making through Dashboard Design
Authors: Valks Bart , Arkesteijn Monique , Koutamanis Alexander , Den Heijer Alexandra
Published: May 2021

At universities worldwide, the notion of a ‘smart campus’ is becoming increasingly appealing as a response to the multitude of challenges that impact campus development and operation. Smart campus tools are widely used to support students and employees, optimise space use and save energy. Although smart campus tools are supposed to support campus managers in their decision-making processes, the use of the information delivered by smart campus tools and their application in organisational processes has received little attention. In this paper, we focus on the use of dashboards in the connection of IoT information to strategic decision-making processes in the management of university campuses. To this end, we developed a briefing approach for dashboards that expresses the needs of campus management and matches the structure of decision-making processes. In two cases, dashboards based on this approach were use-tested by stakeholders for defining information requirements for IoT applications. The results suggest that users are able to use dashboards for assessing portfolio performance and determining interventions. Through iteration the usability of the dashboard is improved and information requirements are refined, resulting in a brief for a campus management dashboard. The results suggest that the briefing approach can be used to determine IoT information requirements, though further research is required to study indications and contra-indications of the proposed method.
Photocatalysis: Activity of Nanomaterials
Authors: Vitiello Giuseppe , Luciani Giuseppina
Published: May 2021

Photocatalytic processes have shown great potential as a low-cost, green-chemical, and sustainable technology able to address energy and environmental issues [...]
Inhaled Nitric Oxide at Birth Reduces Pulmonary Vascular Resistance and Improves Oxygenation in Preterm Lambs
Authors: Lakshminrusimha Satyan , Gugino Sylvia F. , Sekar Krishnamurthy , Wedgwood Stephen , Koenigsknecht Carmon , Nair Jayasree , Mathew Bobby
Published: May 2021

Resuscitation with 21% O2 may not achieve target oxygenation in preterm infants and in neonates with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) at birth can reduce pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and improve PaO2. We studied the effect of iNO on oxygenation and changes in PVR in preterm lambs with and without PPHN during resuscitation and stabilization at birth. Preterm lambs with and without PPHN (induced by antenatal ductal ligation) were delivered at 134 d gestation (term is 147–150 d). Lambs without PPHN were ventilated with 21% O2, titrated O2 to maintain target oxygenation or 21% O2 + iNO (20 ppm) at birth for 30 min. Preterm lambs with PPHN were ventilated with 50% O2, titrated O2 or 50% O2 + iNO. Resuscitation with 21% O2 in preterm lambs and 50%O2 in PPHN lambs did not achieve target oxygenation. Inhaled NO significantly decreased PVR in all lambs and increased PaO2 in preterm lambs ventilated with 21% O2 similar to that achieved by titrated O2 (41 ± 9% at 30 min). Inhaled NO increased PaO2 to 45 ± 13, 45 ± 20 and 76 ± 11 mmHg with 50% O2, titrated O2 up to 100% and 50% O2 + iNO, respectively, in PPHN lambs. We concluded that iNO at birth reduces PVR and FiO2 required to achieve target PaO2.
ACO (Asthma–COPD Overlap) Is Independent from COPD, a Case in Favor: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fujino Naoya , Sugiura Hisatoshi
Published: May 2021

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are now recognized to be able to co-exist as asthma–COPD overlap (ACO). It is clinically relevant to evaluate whether patients with COPD concurrently have components of asthma in primary care. This is because: (i) ACO is a relatively common condition among asthma (over 40 years of age) or COPD irrespective of its diagnosis criteria; (ii) patients with ACO can have higher frequency of exacerbation and more rapid decline in lung function than those with asthma or COPD; and (iii) asthmatic features such as eosinophilic airway inflammation are promising indicators for prediction of inhaled corticosteroid-responsiveness in COPD. The aim of this review to evaluate diagnostic markers for ACO. We searched PubMed for articles related to ACO published until 2020. Articles associated with diagnostic biomarkers were included. We identified a total of 25 studies, some of which have revealed that a combination of biomarkers such as fractional exhaled nitric oxide and serum immunoglobulin E is useful to discern type 2 inflammation in the airways of COPD. Here, we review the current understanding of the clinical characteristics, biomarkers and molecular pathophysiology of ACO in the context of how ACO can be differentiated from COPD.
Choroidal Vascularity Map in Unilateral Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: A Comparison with Fellow and Healthy Eyes
Authors: Sahoo Niroj Kumar , Singh Sumit Randhir , Beale Oliver , Nkrumah Gideon , Rasheed Mohammed Abdul , Jabeen Asiya , Vupparaboina Kiran Kumar , Ibrahim Mohammed Nasar , Tatti Filippo , Chandra Khushboo , Lanza Michele , Iovino Claudio , Peiretti Enrico , Chhablani Jay
Published: May 2021

Background: To map the choroidal vascularity index and compare two eyes in patients with unilateral central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). Methods: This was a retrospective, observational study performed in patients with unilateral CSCR. Choroidal thickness (CT) and Choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were measured and mapped in various zones according to the early treatment diabetic retinopathy (ETDRS) grid. Results: A total of 20 CSCR patients (20 study and 20 fellow eyes) were included in the study. Outer nasal region CT was seen to be significantly lower than central CT (p = 0.042) and inner nasal CT (p = 0.007); outer ring CT was significantly less than central (p = 0.04) and inner ring (p = 0.01) CT in CSCR eyes. On potting all the CVI values against the corresponding CT values, a positive correlation was seen in CSCR eyes (r = 0.54, p < 0.01), which was slightly weaker in fellow eyes (r = 0.3, p < 0.01) and a negative correlation was seen in healthy eyes (r = −0.262, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Correlation between CVI and CT was altered in CSCR eyes as compared to fellow and normal eyes with increasing CVI towards the center of the macula and superiorly in CSCR eyes.
The Role of Digital Maturity Assessment in Technology Interventions with Industrial Internet Playground
Authors: Aagaard Annabeth , Presser Mirko , Collins Tom , Beliatis Michail , Skou Anita Krogsøe , Jakobsen Emilie Mathilde
Published: May 2021

The use of digital technologies such as Internet of Things and advanced data analytics are central in digitally transforming manufacturing companies towards Industry 4.0. Success cases are frequently reported, and there is clear evidence of technology interventions conducted by industry. However, measuring the impact and effect of such interventions on digital maturity and on the organizational adoption can be challenging. Therefore, the research aim of this paper is to explore how the combination of the different methods of Industrial Internet Playground (IIP) pilots, Shadow Infrastructure (SI) and digital maturity assessment can assist in conducting and documenting the technical, as well as organisational, impact of digital interventions. Through an elaborate literature review of existing digital maturity assessment tools and key dimensions in digital transformation, we have developed a digital maturity assessment tool (DMAT), which is presented and applied in the paper to identify digital development areas and to evaluate and document the effects of digital interventions. Thus, the paper contributes with new knowledge of how the IIP pilot and SI combined with digital maturity assessment can support effective, transparent and documented digital transformation throughout an organisation, as explored through theory and a practice case.
Near Infrared Spectroscopy as a Green Technology for the Quality Prediction of Intact Olives
Authors: Grassi Silvia , Jolayemi Olusola Samuel , Giovenzana Valentina , Tugnolo Alessio , Squeo Giacomo , Conte Paola , De Bruno Alessandra , Flamminii Federica , Casiraghi Ernestina , Alamprese Cristina
Published: May 2021

Poorly emphasized aspects for a sustainable olive oil system are chemical analysis replacement and quality design of the final product. In this context, near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can play a pivotal role. Thus, this study aims at comparing performances of different NIRS systems for the prediction of moisture, oil content, soluble solids, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of intact olive drupes. The results obtained by a Fourier transform (FT)-NIR spectrometer, equipped with both an integrating sphere and a fiber optic probe, and a Vis/NIR handheld device are discussed. Almost all the partial least squares regression models were encouraging in predicting the quality parameters (0.64 < R2pred < 0.84), with small and comparable biases (p > 0.05). The pair-wise comparison between the standard deviations demonstrated that the FT-NIR models were always similar except for moisture (p < 0.05), whereas a slightly lower performance of the Vis/NIR models was assessed. Summarizing, while on-line or in-line applications of the FT-NIR optical probe should be promoted in oil mills in order to quickly classify the drupes for a better quality design of the olive oil, the portable and cheaper Vis/NIR device could be useful for preliminary quality evaluation of olive drupes directly in the field.
A Multidisciplinary Fingerprinting Approach for Authenticity and Geographical Traceability of Portuguese Wines
Authors: Teixeira Rui J. S. , Gomes Sónia , Malheiro Vitorino , Pereira Leonor , Fernandes José R. , Mendes-Ferreira Alexandra , Gomes Maria E. P. , Martins-Lopes Paula
Published: May 2021

The interest in developing reliable wine authenticity schemes is a hot-topic, especially for wines with recognized added-value. In order to accomplish this goal, two dimensions need to be considered: the grapevine variety determination and the geographical provenance. The aim of this study was to develop a multidisciplinary approach applicable to wines from the sub region Melgaço and Monção of the demarcated Vinho Verde region and from the demarcated Douro region. The proposed scheme consists on the use of DNA-based assays to detect Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) on three genes of the anthocyanin pathway (UFGT, F3H and LDOX) coupled with High-resolution melting (HRM) analysis aiming the varietal identification. The Alvarinho wines revealed to have the same haplotype using this marker set, demonstrating its applicability for genetic identification. In addition, to assess their geographical provenance, a multi-elemental approach using Sr and Pb isotopic ratios of wine, soil and bedrock samples was used. The isotopic data suggest a relation between Sr and Pb uptake by vine roots and soil’s texture and clay content, rather than with the whole rock’s isotopic ratios, but also highlights the potential of a discriminating method based on the combination of selected isotopic signatures.
US and UK Consumer Adoption of Cultivated Meat: A Segmentation Study
Authors: Szejda Keri , Bryant Christopher J. , Urbanovich Tessa
Published: May 2021

Despite growing evidence of the environmental and public health threats posed by today’s intensive animal production, consumers in the west remain largely attached to meat. Cultivated meat offers a way to grow meat directly from cells, circumventing these issues as well as the use of animals altogether. The aim of this study was to assess the overall consumer markets and a range of preferences around cultivated meat in the US and the UK relating to nomenclature, genetic modification, health enhancements, and other features. To this end, we recruited large representative samples to participate in an online survey about cultivated meat, and subsequently analyzed segments (a) in the early majority population (guided by the Diffusion of Innovations Model), (b) by generation, and (c) in the general population. Our findings showed a high level of openness (80%) in both the US and UK populations, with 40% somewhat or moderately likely to try and 40% highly likely to try. Younger generations had the greatest openness: 88% of Gen Z, 85% of Millennials, 77% of Gen X, and 72% of Baby Boomers were at least somewhat open to trying cultivated meat. All segments envisioned cultivated meat to be nearly half of their total meat intake. Findings show that consumers prefer the terms ‘cultured’ and ‘cultivated’ over ‘cell-based’ and ‘cell-cultured’ for use in a social context and on packages, even though they perceive these terms as less descriptive. The most important on-package label was one indicating government assurances, and participants preferred non-GM products over GM products. We also found that US consumers prefer nutritionally superior meat over nutritionally equivalent meat. We discuss implications for product development, messaging, and understanding the likely adoption path of this food innovation.
Effect of Processing and Storage on the Quality of Beetroot and Apple Mixed Juice
Authors: Bianchi Flavia , Pünsch Marina , Venir Elena
Published: May 2021

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the development of health-promoting and disease-preventing functional foods. Beetroot is a promising vegetable because of its outstanding antioxidant activity, vivid colour, and content of bioactive compounds. In the present study, the quality of pure beetroot and apple juices as well as that of their mixture was evaluated by measuring changes of colour, betalain content, and antioxidant activity during processing and storage. No perceivable colour changes of the beetroot juice were observed after adding apple juice up to 85% of the total amount. However, the antioxidant activity was proportionally reduced with the addition of apple juice. Pasteurization negatively affected the content of betalains but did not influence the antioxidant activity. Storage led to colour modifications and reduction of betalains and antioxidant activity. Through preliminary shelf-life studies, a durability of 65 days at room temperature for apple and beetroot juice blends was calculated. The novelty of this study lies in an extended description of physico-chemical characteristics of a fresh apple and beetroot blended juice obtained from local products, in the study of the effects of processing and storage on its quality, and in the estimation of its shelf-life after storage at different temperatures.
Influence of Temperature during Pre-Fermentative Maceration and Alcoholic Fermentation on the Phenolic Composition of ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ Wines
Authors: Ruiz-Rodríguez Ana , Palma Miguel , Barroso Carmelo G.
Published: May 2021

This study presents the effects of different working temperatures on the transfer of compounds during the pre-fermentative and fermentative stages of the wine making process with ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grapes. Two different procedures have been evaluated. Firstly, the pre-fermentative maceration of the crushed grapes at two different temperatures (20 °C and 10 °C). Then, the alcoholic fermentation under two different sets of conditions, the fermentation at a constant temperature of 20 °C and the fermentation under a positive temperature gradient from 10 to 20 °C. According to the experimental results, the phenolic contents (total phenolics, total anthocyanins, and total tannins) were mainly conditioned by the fermentation temperature, however the pre-fermentative conditions also affected the content levels of these compounds. Furthermore, the use of a fermentation temperature gradient improved the organoleptic characteristics of the wines. However, the color was not as stable as that of wines produced through fermentation at a higher constant temperature. Consequently, the implementation of a temperature gradient during the alcoholic fermentation process is recommended and a longer period at high temperature over the last phase of the process would be desirable to obtain aromatic wines with the desirable color stability.
Fatty Acid Prediction in Bovine Milk by Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy after Solvent-Free Lipid Separation
Authors: Akhgar Christopher Karim , Nürnberger Vanessa , Nadvornik Marlene , Velik Margit , Schwaighofer Andreas , Rosenberg Erwin , Lendl Bernhard
Published: May 2021

In the present study, a novel approach for mid-infrared (IR)-based prediction of bovine milk fatty acid composition is introduced. A rapid, solvent-free, two-step centrifugation method was applied in order to obtain representative milk fat fractions. IR spectra of pure milk lipids were recorded with attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy. Comparison to the IR transmission spectra of whole milk revealed a higher amount of significant spectral information for fatty acid analysis. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models were calculated to relate the IR spectra to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) reference values, providing particularly good predictions for fatty acid sum parameters as well as for the following individual fatty acids: C10:0 (R2P = 0.99), C12:0 (R2P = 0.97), C14:0 (R2P = 0.88), C16:0 (R2P = 0.81), C18:0 (R2P = 0.93), and C18:1cis (R2P = 0.95). The IR wavenumber ranges for the individual regression models were optimized and validated by calculation of the PLS selectivity ratio. Based on a set of 45 milk samples, the obtained PLS figures of merit are significantly better than those reported in literature using whole milk transmission spectra and larger datasets. In this context, direct IR measurement of the milk fat fraction inherently eliminates covariation structures between fatty acids and total fat content, which poses a common problem in IR-based milk fat profiling. The combination of solvent-free lipid separation and ATR-FT-IR spectroscopy represents a novel approach for fast fatty acid prediction, with the potential for high-throughput application in routine lab operation.
Characterization of Kefir Produced in Household Conditions: Physicochemical and Nutritional Profile, and Storage Stability
Authors: Alves Emília , Ntungwe Epole N. , Gregório João , Rodrigues Luis M. , Pereira-Leite Catarina , Caleja Cristina , Pereira Eliana , Barros Lillian , Aguilar-Vilas M. Victorina , Rosado Catarina , Rijo Patrícia
Published: May 2021

Kefir, a traditional fermented food, has numerous health benefits due to its unique chemical composition, which is reflected in its excellent nutritional value. Physicochemical and microbial composition of kefir obtained from fermented milk are influenced by the type of the milk, grain to milk ratio, time and temperature of fermentation, and storage conditions. It is crucial that kefir characteristics are maintained during storage since continuous metabolic activities of residual kefir microbiota may occur. This study aimed to examine the nutritional profile of kefir produced in traditional in use conditions by fermentation of ultra-high temperature pasteurized (UHT) semi-skimmed cow milk using argentinean kefir grains and compare the stability and nutritional compliance of freshly made and refrigerated kefir. Results indicate that kefir produced under home use conditions maintains the expected characteristics with respect to the physicochemical parameters and composition, both after fermentation and after refrigerated storage. This work further contributes to the characterization of this food product that is so widely consumed around the world by focusing on kefir that was produced in a typical household setting.
Oxygen Permeability of Silk Fibroin Hydrogels and Their Use as Materials for Contact Lenses: A Purposeful Analysis
Authors: Chirila Traian V.
Published: May 2021

Fibroin is a fibrous protein that can be conveniently isolated from the silk cocoons produced by the larvae of Bombyx mori silk moth. In its form as a hydrogel, Bombyx mori silk fibroin (BMSF) has been employed in a variety of biomedical applications. When used as substrates for biomaterial-cells constructs in tissue engineering, the oxygen transport characteristics of the BMSF membranes have proved so far to be adequate. However, over the past three decades the BMSF hydrogels have been proposed episodically as materials for the manufacture of contact lenses, an application that depends on substantially elevated oxygen permeability. This review will show that the literature published on the oxygen permeability of BMSF is both limited and controversial. Additionally, there is no evidence that contact lenses made from BMSF have ever reached commercialization. The existing literature is discussed critically, leading to the conclusion that BMSF hydrogels are unsuitable as materials for contact lenses, while also attempting to explain the scarcity of data regarding the oxygen permeability of BMSF. To the author’s knowledge, this review covers all publications related to the topic.
Outcome and Predictors for Mortality in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock: A Dutch Nationwide Registry-Based Study of 75,407 Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Treated by PCI
Authors: Karami Mina , Peters Elma , Lagrand Wim , Houterman Saskia , den Uil Corstiaan , Engström Annemarie , Otterspoor Luuk , Ottevanger Jan , Ferreira Irlando , Montero-Cabezas Jose , Sjauw Krischan , van Ramshorst Jan , Kraaijeveld Adriaan , Verouden Niels , Lipsic Erik , Vlaar Alexander , Henriques Jose ,   on Behalf of the PCI Registration Committee of The Netherlands Heart Registration
Published: May 2021

It is important to gain more insight into the cardiogenic shock (CS) population, as currently, little is known on how to improve outcomes. Therefore, we assessed clinical outcome in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with and without CS at admission. Furthermore, the incidence of CS and predictors for mortality in CS patients were evaluated. The Netherlands Heart Registration (NHR) is a nationwide registry on all cardiac interventions. We used NHR data of ACS patients treated with PCI between 2015 and 2019. Among 75,407 ACS patients treated with PCI, 3028 patients (4.1%) were identified with CS, respectively 4.3%, 3.9%, 3.5%, and 4.3% per year. Factors associated with mortality in CS were age (HR 1.02, 95%CI 1.02–1.03), eGFR (HR 0.98, 95%CI 0.98–0.99), diabetes mellitus (DM) (HR 1.25, 95%CI 1.08–1.45), multivessel disease (HR 1.22, 95%CI 1.06–1.39), prior myocardial infarction (MI) (HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.06–1.45), and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) (HR 1.71, 95%CI 1.50–1.94). In conclusion, in this Dutch nationwide registry-based study of ACS patients treated by PCI, the incidence of CS was 4.1% over the 4-year study period. Predictors for mortality in CS were higher age, renal insufficiency, presence of DM, multivessel disease, prior MI, and OHCA.
The Association of Periodontitis and Peripheral Arterial Occlusive Disease in a Prospective Population-Based Cross-Sectional Cohort Study
Authors: Jacobi Nicole , Walther Carolin , Borof Katrin , Heydecke Guido , Seedorf Udo , Lamprecht Ragna , Beikler Thomas , Debus Sebastian E. , Waldeyer Christoph , Blankenberg Stefan , Schnabel Renate B. , Aarabi Ghazal , Behrendt Christian-Alexander
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and periodontitis are common chronic diseases, which together affect almost 1 billion people worldwide. There is growing evidence suggesting a relationship between chronic inflammatory conditions such as periodontitis and PAOD. This study aims to determine an association between both entities using high quality research data and multiple phenotypes derived from an epidemiological cohort study. Design: This population-based cross-sectional cohort study included data from 3271 participants aged between 45 and 74 years enrolled in the Hamburg City Health Study (NCT03934957). Material & Methods: An ankle-brachial-index below 0.9, color-coded ultrasound of the lower extremity arteries, and survey data was used to identify participants with either asymptomatic or symptomatic PAOD. Periodontitis data was collected at six sites per tooth and included the probing depth, gingival recession, clinical attachment loss, and bleeding on probing index. Multivariate analyses using logistic regression models were adjusted for variables including age, sex, smoking, education, diabetes, and hypertension. Results: The baseline characteristics differed widely between participants neither affected by periodontitis nor PAOD vs. the group where both PAOD and severe periodontitis were identified. A higher rate of males, higher age, lower education level, smoking, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease was observed in the group affected by both diseases. After adjusting, presence of severe periodontitis (odds ratio 1.265; 97.5% CI 1.006–1.591; p = 0.045) was independently associated with PAOD. Conclusion: In this cross-sectional analysis of a prospective cohort study, an independent association between periodontitis and PAOD was revealed. The results of the current study emphasize a potential for preventive medicine in an extremely sensitive target population. Future studies should determine the underlying factors modifying the relationship between both diseases.
Comparison of Post-Tonsillectomy Hemorrhage between Monopolar and Plasma Blade Techniques
Authors: Chen Andy Wei-Ge , Chen Mu-Kuan
Published: May 2021

The plasma blade is an innovative device that was recently introduced for performing tonsillectomy. While one of the benefits of the plasma blade is limited thermal damage, the effects of plasma blades on postoperative hemorrhage have not been thoroughly investigated. Patients who underwent tonsillectomy in our institution between January 2013 and September 2018 were retrospectively enrolled in the study. A total of 1214 patients were enrolled in the study, with 759 participants who underwent monopolar tonsillectomy and 455 participants who underwent plasma blade tonsillectomy. In total, 14 bleeding events occurred in the monopolar group, and 10 events occurred in the plasma blade group. The odds ratio for postoperative bleeding in the plasma blade group was 1.20 (95% CI 0.52 to 2.72). After adjusting for potential confounders, the adjusted odds ratio was 1.34 (95% CI 0.58 to 3.07). In conclusion, there is no significant difference in post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage rates between the traditional monopolar technique and plasma blade technique. Plasma blade tonsillectomy can be considered as safe as traditional monopolar tonsillectomy.
Multimodal Supervised Exercise Training Is Effective in Improving Long Term Walking Performance in Patients with Symptomatic Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Ney Barbara , Lanzi Stefano , Calanca Luca , Mazzolai Lucia
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a multimodal supervised exercise training (SET) program on walking performance for 12 months in patients with symptomatic lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD). Consecutive patients with Fontaine stage II PAD participating in the SET program of our hospital were retrospectively investigated. Walking performance, assessed using a treadmill with measures of the pain-free and maximal walking distance (PFWD, MWD, respectively), and 6 min walking distance (6MWD), were tested before and following SET, as well as at 6 and 12 months after SET completion. Ninety-three symptomatic patients with PAD (65.0 ± 1.1 y) were included in the study. Following SET, the walking performance significantly improved (PFWD: +145%, p ≤ 0.001; MWD: +97%, p ≤ 0.001; 6MWD: +15%, p ≤ 0.001). At 6 months, PFWD (+257%, p ≤ 0.001), MWD (+132%, p ≤ 0.001), and 6MWD (+11%, p ≤ 0.001) remained significantly improved compared with the pre-SET condition. At 12 months, PFWD (+272%, p ≤ 0.001), MWD (+130%, p ≤ 0.001), and 6MWD (+11%, p ≤ 0.001) remained significantly improved compared with the pre-training condition. The walking performance remained significantly improved in both women and men for up to 12 months (p ≤ 0.001). Multimodal SET is effective at improving walking performance in symptomatic patients with PAD, with improvements lasting up to 12 months.
Diversity of Acupuncture Point Selections According to the Acupuncture Styles and Their Relations to Theoretical Elements in Traditional Asian Medicine: A Data-Mining-Based Literature Study
Authors: Jang Dong-Yeop , Oh Ki-Chang , Jung Eun-Seo , Cho Soo-Jin , Lee Ji-Yun , Lee Yeon-Jae , Kim Chang-Eop , Yang In-Jun
Published: May 2021

Acupuncture point (AP) selections can vary depending on clinicians’ acupuncture style, and therefore, acupuncture style is an important factor in determining the efficacy of acupuncture treatment. However, few studies have examined the differences in AP selections according to the acupuncture styles and theoretical backgrounds causing the differences. We compared the AP prescriptions used for 14 diseases in three classical medical textbooks, Dongeuibogam (DEBG), Saamdoinchimgooyogyeol (SADI), and Chimgoogyeongheombang (CGGHB), which represent unique acupuncture styles and have affected clinicians during this time. AP prescriptions showed more diversity between textbooks than between types of diseases. Among the three textbooks, AP prescriptions of SADI were most different compared to those of DEBG and CGGHB. Importantly, we found each style can be more clearly explained by AP attributes than by the APs per se. Specifically, SADI, DEBG, and CGGHB preferred five transport points located on the limbs, APs of the extra meridians, and source points, respectively. This suggests the possibility that the theoretical diversity of acupuncture styles results in the heterogeneity of AP selections.
Implementing Pharmacogenomics Testing: Single Center Experience at Arkansas Children’s Hospital
Authors: Gill Pritmohinder , Yu Feliciano , Porter-Gill Patricia , Boyanton Bobby , Allen Judy , Farrar Jason , Veerapandiyan Aravindhan , Prodhan Parthak , Bielamowicz Kevin , Sellars Elizabeth , Burrow Andrew , Kennedy Joshua , Clothier Jeffery , Becton David , Rule Don , Schaefer G.
Published: May 2021

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is a growing field within precision medicine. Testing can help predict adverse events and sub-therapeutic response risks of certain medications. To date, the US FDA lists over 280 drugs which provide biomarker-based dosing guidance for adults and children. At Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH), a clinical PGx laboratory-based test was developed and implemented to provide guidance on 66 pediatric medications for genotype-guided dosing. This PGx test consists of 174 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) targeting 23 clinically actionable PGx genes or gene variants. Individual genotypes are processed to provide per-gene discrete results in star-allele and phenotype format. These results are then integrated into EPIC- EHR. Genomic indicators built into EPIC-EHR provide the source for clinical decision support (CDS) for clinicians, providing genotype-guided dosing.
The Impact of Bank Specific and Macro-Economic Factors on Non-Performing Loans in the Banking Sector: Evidence from an Emerging Economy
Authors: Ahmed Shakeel , Majeed M. , Thalassinos Eleftherios , Thalassinos Yannis
Published: May 2021

The current study examines macro-economic and bank specific determinants of non-performing loans (NPLs) for commercial banks from 2008–2018. The Pakistani banking sector has observed a significant increase in NPLs. In addition, the current study is undertaken to fill this gap in the literature as most of the prior studies focus on the developed markets. In the current study, we prefer the system GMM estimator. Its reliability depends on the validity of the instruments. To testing the second-order serial correlation, we apply the J test for testing the validity of the instruments and the Arellano–Bond AR (2) test. Using dynamic-GMM estimations, we find that credit growth, net interest margin, loan loss provision, and bank diversification significantly increase NPLs, while operating efficiency, bank size, and ROA lower NPLs. In addition, higher interest rates, exchange rates, and political risk significantly increase NPLs, while GDP growth decreases NPLs. This paper provides a timely insight to management and policy makers about the determinants of NPLs. The findings help management to take corrective actions and policy makers may take into consideration the significance of macro-economic conditions while formulating policy regarding NPLs. Likewise, the study provides insight to potential investors to consider the findings while selecting better investment opportunity. The current study is the first of its kind focusing on the link among bank specific, macroeconomic variables, and non-performing loans within the specific context of an emerging economy, Pakistan.
Transitioning towards a Sustainable Wellbeing Economy—Implications for Rural–Urban Relations
Authors: Knickel Karlheinz , Almeida Alexandra , Galli Francesca , Hausegger-Nestelberger Kerstin , Goodwin-Hawkins Bryonny , Hrabar Mojca , Keech Daniel , Knickel Marina , Lehtonen Olli , Maye Damian , Ruiz-Martinez Irune , Šūmane Sandra , Vulto Hans , Wiskerke Johannes S. C.
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on the question of how a shift from a narrow economic perspective to a wider sustainable wellbeing focus in regional development strategies and actions might change rural–urban relations. A brief review of relevant research and discourses about economic development models provides the foundation for the analysis. The review leads to the development of an analytical framework that puts the notion of sustainable wellbeing at its center. The criteria included in the analytical framework are then used to assess the current situation, challenges and perceived ways forward based on data and analyses from 11 European regions. The focus of the analysis is on different expressions of a sustainable wellbeing economy, and aspects of territorial development that are consistent with the basic features of a wellbeing economy are identified. Development dynamics and tensions between different development goals and resource uses, strategies and actions that are in favor of sustainable wellbeing goals, and conditions for more mutually beneficial rural–urban relationships are discussed. The article concludes with the implications for local government, and governance and policy frameworks. Reference is made to current high-level strategic policy frameworks and the European Green Deal.
Interplay between Mitochondrial Protein Import and Respiratory Complexes Assembly in Neuronal Health and Degeneration
Authors: Needs Hope I. , Protasoni Margherita , Henley Jeremy M. , Prudent Julien , Collinson Ian , Pereira Gonçalo C.
Published: May 2021

The fact that >99% of mitochondrial proteins are encoded by the nuclear genome and synthesised in the cytosol renders the process of mitochondrial protein import fundamental for normal organelle physiology. In addition to this, the nuclear genome comprises most of the proteins required for respiratory complex assembly and function. This means that without fully functional protein import, mitochondrial respiration will be defective, and the major cellular ATP source depleted. When mitochondrial protein import is impaired, a number of stress response pathways are activated in order to overcome the dysfunction and restore mitochondrial and cellular proteostasis. However, prolonged impaired mitochondrial protein import and subsequent defective respiratory chain function contributes to a number of diseases including primary mitochondrial diseases and neurodegeneration. This review focuses on how the processes of mitochondrial protein translocation and respiratory complex assembly and function are interlinked, how they are regulated, and their importance in health and disease.
Discrete Approximation by a Dirichlet Series Connected to the Riemann Zeta-Function
Authors: Laurinčikas Antanas , Šiaučiūnas Darius
Published: May 2021

In the paper, a Dirichlet series ζuN(s) whose shifts ζuN(s+ikh), k=0,1,⋯, h>0, approximate analytic non-vanishing functions defined on the right-hand side of the critical strip is considered. This series is closely connected to the Riemann zeta-function. The sequence uN→∞ and uN≪N2 as N→∞.
Statistical Analysis of the Evolutive Effects of Language Development in the Resolution of Mathematical Problems in Primary School Education
Authors: Rodríguez-Hernández M. M. , Pruneda R. E. , Rodríguez-Díaz J. M.
Published: May 2021

For primary school students, the difficulty in solving mathematical problems is highly related to language capacity. A correct solution can only be achieved after being able to deal with different abstract concepts through several stages: comprehension, processing, symbolic representation and relation of the concepts with the right mathematical operations. A model linking the solution of the mathematical problems (PS) with the mental representation (MR) of the problem statement, while taking into account the level of the students (which has influence in the linguistic abilities), is presented in this study. Different statistical tools such as the Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), ROC curves and logistic regression models have been applied. The relation between both variables has been proved, showing that the influence of MR in PS is similar in the different age groups, with linking models varying just in the constant term depending on the grade level. In addition, a cutoff in the mental representation test is provided in order to predict the student’s ability in problem resolution.
Corrosion Behavior and Osteogenic Activity of a Biodegradable Orthopedic Implant Mg–Si Alloy with a Gradient Structure
Authors: Jiang Weiyan , Yu Wenzhou
Published: May 2021

A gradient Mg-8 wt % Si alloy, which was composed of the agglomerated Mg2Si crystals coating (GMS8-1) and the eutectic Mg–Si alloy matrix (GMS8-2), was designed for biodegradable orthopedic implant materials. The bio-corrosion behavior was evaluated by the electrochemical measurements and the immersion tests. The results show that a significant improvement of bio-corrosion resistance was achieved by using the gradient Mg–Si alloy, as compared with the traditional Mg-8 wt % Si alloy (MS8), which should be attributed to the compact and insoluble Mg2Si phase distributed on the surface of the material. Especially, GMS8-1 exhibits the highest polarization resistance of 1610 Ω, the lowest corrosion current density of 1.7 × 10−6 A·cm−2, and the slowest corrosion rate of 0.10 mm/year. In addition, GMS8-1 and GMS8-2 show better osteogenic activity than MS8, with no cytotoxicity to MC3T3-E1 cells. This work provides a new way to design a gradient biodegradable Mg alloys with some certain biological functions.
Effect of Electric Current Heat Treatment on Commercially Pure Titanium Sheets
Authors: Lee Chan Hyeok , Choi Seong-Woo , Narayana P. L. , Nguyet Nguyen Thi Anh , Hong Sung-Tae , Kim Jae H. , Kang Namhyun , Hong Jae-Keun
Published: May 2021

Rapid electric current heat treatment has been successfully applied to a cold-rolled sheet of commercially pure titanium (CP Ti). The electric current heat treatment was conducted at various temperatures (400, 500, 600 and 700 °C) by altering the current density (A/mm2). The detailed microstructure and texture evolution was studied using electron backscatter and X-ray diffraction analysis. For comparison, conventional heat treatment at 400, 500 and 600 °C were also applied to the cold-rolled sheets. The electrically heat-treated sample showed a much smaller and uniform grain size with a relatively weak texture than the conventionally heat-treated one. As a result, the electrically heat-treated samples exhibited better tensile properties than conventionally heat-treated samples. Furthermore, the electric current treatment produced minimum sheet distortion and good oxidation resistance compared with the conventional heat treatment.
Bioinformatics Analysis of Oral, Vaginal, and Rectal Microbial Profiles during Pregnancy: A Pilot Study on the Bacterial Co-Residence in Pregnant Women
Authors: Fudaba Megumi , Kamiya Tomonori , Tachibana Daisuke , Koyama Masayasu , Ohtani Naoko
Published: May 2021

Preterm birth (PTB) and threatened preterm labor (TPL), an important pre-PTB state, are major obstetric complications during pregnancy. However, their triggers have not been fully elucidated. The vagina is dominated by Lactobacillus species (categorized as community state types; CSTs I, II, III, and V) or by mixed anaerobes (CST IV). An abundance of the latter is associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and BV-triggered PTB/TPL. To identify factors that influence the diversity of vaginal microbiota associated with BV and CST IV (BV-type) bacterial profile, we performed a bioinformatic analysis of the microbial taxa using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data of bacterial genome in oral, vaginal, and rectal samples collected from 58 pregnant Japanese women. Interestingly, common residence of BV-associated bacteria in the vagina and rectum was individually detected in the CST IV (non-Lactobacillus dominated) group by species-level Spearman correlation coefficient analysis, suggesting that the rectum acts as a reservoir of BV-associated bacterial species in the CST IV group. The current study provides evidence of bacterial co-residence in vagina and rectum in the non-Lactobacillus dominated group, which could be targeted to reduce the risk of preterm incidence in pregnancy.