bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Pepper Rootstocks as a Sustainable Alternative to Improve Yield and Fruit Quality
Authors: Luna-Garcia Laura Raquel , Robledo-Torres Valentin , Gonzalez-Cortes Areli , Mendoza-Villarreal Rosalinda , Paredes-Jacome Jose Rafael
Published: July 2023

Sustainable agriculture is a good alternative for the healthy production of food in the present, without the risk to global agriculture in the future. Therefore, feasible production techniques have been sought, such as the use of rootstocks, which provide tolerance to biotic and/or abiotic stresses, to avoid an excessive use of agrochemicals and damage from pathogens, without affecting crop production. The objective of this study was to analyze the morphological and productive adaptation of three commercial hybrids (Avante, DiCaprio and Ucumari) grafted onto three rootstocks (Fundación, Yaocali and UAN), in order to evaluate and determine their effect on the quality and yield of bell pepper fruit, which has a high demand and great economic potential. Significant differences were found between the rootstocks and hybrids for the commercial classification of the fruits, with Yaocali producing larger fruits, which have the highest value in the export market, surpassing the UAN with 63.9%. The DiCaprio graft outperformed the Ucumari interactions by 231.5%, and the Avante interactions by 142.8%, for the extra-large (XL) fruit production. Based on the results obtained, it is possible to conclude that the grafted plants improved the quantity of the fruits of higher classification. However, they did not have a significant influence on the yield and quality of the fruits, which could be attributed to the lack of compatibility between them; therefore, the vigor of the plant was not expressed. This study showed that the rootstock did not influence the yield and fruit quality components of the grafts.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity in the White-Colored Variants of Spray-Type Chrysanthemum Cultivars Using SSR Markers
Authors: Mekapogu Manjulatha , Song Hyun-Young , Lim So-Hyeon , Jung Jae-A
Published: July 2023

Chrysanthemums represent the second most important cut flower after rose on the global commercial market. The phenomenal importance and global popularity of chrysanthemums have attracted breeders’ attention, resulting in the release of vast numbers of cultivars. Identifying these cultivars is crucial to protecting breeders’ intellectual property rights and improving the efficiency of breeding. Distinguishing chrysanthemum genotypes based on their morphological characteristics is challenging as they vary highly within this group, hence requiring the use of efficient molecular markers. In this study, we evaluated the genetic diversity of 57 spray-type chrysanthemum cultivars bearing white, ivory, and cream-colored flowers. A total of six loci were evaluated regarding their polymorphism efficiency across the tested cultivars. Allele numbers ranged from 2 to 6, with a mean of 3.5 alleles per locus. The average polymorphism information content (PIC) was 0.53 for six SSR markers. Cluster analysis of genetic relationships using the UPGMA method showed a genetic distance of 0.31 to 1.00, and the 57 white variants of chrysanthemum cultivars were characterized using the tested SSR markers. However, two sets of cultivars, namely, Pure Angel–Neba and Ladost–White wing, exhibited total genetic similarity and hence could not be discriminated. These results provide efficient SSR markers that can be used to identify chrysanthemum cultivars (and assess their genetic relationships) that cannot be discriminated based on phenotype.
TCP Transcription Factors in Pineapple: Genome-Wide Characterization and Expression Profile Analysis during Flower and Fruit Development
Authors: Li Ziqiong , Ouyang Yanwei , Pan Xiaolu , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhao Lei , Wang Can , Xu Rui , Zhang Hongna , Wei Yongzan
Published: July 2023

TEOSINTE-BRANCHED1/CYCLOIDEA/PCF (TCP) transcription factors contain specific a basic helix–loop–helix structure, which is a significant factor in the regulation of plant growth and development. TCP has been studied in several species, but no pineapple TCP has been reported to date. Whether they are involved in the development of the flower and fruit in the pineapple remains unclear. In this study, nine non-redundant pineapple TCPs (AcTCPs) were identified. Chromosomal localization, phylogenetics, gene structure, motifs, multiple-sequence alignment, and covariance on AcTCP family members were analyzed. Analysis of promoter cis-acting elements illustrated that the AcTCP gene may be mainly co-regulated by light signal and multiple hormone signals. Analysis of expression characteristics showed a significant increase in AcTCP5 expression at 12 h after ethylene treatment, and significantly higher levels of AcTCP8 and AcTCP9 expression in the pistil than in other floral organs. Meanwhile, the AcTCP4, AcTCP5, AcTCP6, AcTCP7, and AcTCP9 expression levels were downregulated at later stages of fruit development. Transcription factors that may interact with TCP protein in the regulation of flower and fruit development are screened by the protein interaction prediction network, AcTCP5 interacts with AcSPL16, and AcTCP8 interacts with AcFT5 and AcFT6 proteins, verified by Y2H experiments. These findings provide a basis for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms and function of the AcTCP gene in flower and fruit development.
Psychosocial Risks in Teachers from Portugal and England on the Way to Society 5.0
Authors: Pimenta Ana , Ramos Delfina , Santos Gilberto , Rodrigues Matilde A. , Doiro Manuel
Published: July 2023

Being a teacher is one of the most demanding jobs, as a result of this responsibility, these workers face many psychosocial risks. This study aims to characterize and compare psychosocial factors in Portuguese and British teachers and discuss how new developments in technology, namely digital technology can improve education and, in particular, contribute to fewer issues related to mental health. The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire Medium Version (COPSOQ II) was applied to the teachers of six Portuguese schools (three public schools and three private schools), three British public schools and three private schools with an international British curriculum (Switzerland, Spain and Portugal). The results showed that cognitive, emotional, and quantitative demands, as well as work rhythm and work/family conflict, are the key psychosocial factors among these teachers. Differences were found between the teachers of both countries. Some models are proposed, through the proposals of Society 5.0, for their minimization and/or removal. Society 5.0 is the vision of a new human-centered society in the fifth stage launched by Japan in April 2016, and it is cited in our study with the hope that it will contribute to solving many problems of today’s society.
Personal and Work-Oriented Characteristics Distinguishing Older Nurses’ Partial or Complete Actual Retirement Behavior over Three Years
Authors: Rodwell John
Published: July 2023

To retain nurses and prevent worsening the nursing shortage, a key opportunity is to better understand the drivers of complete and partial retirement of older nurses. This study investigates the characteristics that distinguish older nurses’ partial and complete actual retirement behavior, from those continuing to work, over a three-year period. A quantitative longitudinal design comprising 217 female Australian nurses aged 50 years or over, from two samples working at Time 1 (2012 and 2016), responding three years later (Time 2). Multinomial regression found two different patterns of drivers for each of completely retiring and partly retiring respectively. Age was the only variable distinguishing both partly and completely retired nurses from nurses who were not retired. The further variables distinguishing completely retired nurses were not being prosperous, having impaired work ability, being partnered, not stressed at work and working part-time. The only variable beyond age distinguishing partly retired nurses was having a casual contract. Offering flexible work options in terms of working hours and contracts that suit the nurse’s lifestyle and supporting nurses with health impairments to continue working are options that may lessen the number of nurses completely retiring and instead either remaining at work or partly retiring.
Cholesterol Metabolic Profiling of HDL in Women with Late-Onset Preeclampsia
Authors: Antonić Tamara , Ardalić Daniela , Vladimirov Sandra , Zeljković Aleksandra , Vekić Jelena , Mitrović Marija , Ivanišević Jasmina , Gojković Tamara , Munjas Jelena , Spasojević-Kalimanovska Vesna , Miković Željko , Stefanović Aleksandra
Published: July 2023

A specific feature of dyslipidemia in pregnancy is increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration, which is probably associated with maternal endothelium protection. However, preeclampsia is most often associated with low HDL cholesterol, and the mechanisms behind this change are scarcely explored. We aimed to investigate changes in HDL metabolism in risky pregnancies and those complicated by late-onset preeclampsia. We analyze cholesterol synthesis (cholesterol precursors: desmosterol, 7-dehydrocholesterol, and lathosterol) and absorption markers (phytosterols: campesterol and β-sitosterol) within HDL particles (NCSHDL), the activities of principal modulators of HDL cholesterol’s content, and major HDL functional proteins levels in mid and late pregnancy. On the basis of the pregnancy outcome, participants were classified into the risk group (RG) (70 women) and the preeclampsia group (PG) (20 women). HDL cholesterol was lower in PG in the second trimester compared to RG (p < 0.05) and followed by lower levels of cholesterol absorption markers (p < 0.001 for campesterolHDL and p < 0.05 for β-sitosterolHDL). Lowering of HDL cholesterol between trimesters in RG (p < 0.05) was accompanied by a decrease in HDL phytosterol content (p < 0.001), apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentration (p < 0.05), and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) (p < 0.001), lecithin–cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) (p < 0.05), and cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) activities (p < 0.05). These longitudinal changes were absent in PG. Development of late-onset preeclampsia is preceded by the appearance of lower HDL cholesterol and NCSHDL in the second trimester. We propose that reduced capacity for intestinal HDL synthesis, decreased LCAT activity, and impaired capacity for HDL-mediated cholesterol efflux could be the contributing mechanisms resulting in lower HDL cholesterol.
Relative Telomere Length Is Associated with the Risk of Development and Severity of the Course of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Russian Population
Authors: Dmitrenko Olga P. , Abramova Olga I. , Karpova Nataliia S. , Nurbekov Malik K. , Arshinova Ekaterina S.
Published: July 2023

One of the most significant factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) development is considered to be aging, the processes of which are closely associated with telomere shortening. The different forms, indicators of aggressiveness, and intensities of AMD can be observed in the same age group, confirming the need to find a biomarker for early diagnosis and be capable of monitoring the progression of the pathological process. Therefore, we investigated whether the relative telomere length (RTL) has any connection with the risk of development of disease and its progression. RTL was measured using RT-PCR in 166 people, including 96 patients with AMD. RTL was significantly lower in patients with AMD. Women were more likely to develop AMD than men (odds ratio (OR) = 9.53 × 106 vs. OR = 1.04 × 108, respectively). The decrease in RTL in patients reliably correlated with the progression of AMD, and the smallest RTL was observed in late-stage patients. RTL < 0.8 is a significant risk factor for disease progression. The results of our research showed that RTL may be considered as a potential biomarker and a promising predictor of disease progression in patients with early AMD.
Correction: Aktar et al. Gene Expression Analysis of Immune Regulatory Genes in Circulating Tumour Cells and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Patients with Colorectal Carcinoma. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 5051
Authors: Aktar Sharmin , Hamid Faysal Bin , Gamage Sujani Madhurika Kodagoda , Cheng Tracie , Pakneshan Nahal , Lu Cu Tai , Islam Farhadul , Gopalan Vinod , Lam Alfred King-yin
Published: July 2023

Faysal Bin Hamid was not included as an author in the original publication [...]
MicroRNA: A Dynamic Player from Signalling to Abiotic Tolerance in Plants
Authors: Ma Ziming , Hu Lanjuan
Published: July 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules composed of approximately 20–24 nucleotides in plants. They play an important regulatory role in plant growth and development and as a signal in abiotic tolerance. Some abiotic stresses include drought, salt, cold, high temperature, heavy metals and nutritional elements. miRNAs affect gene expression by manipulating the cleavage, translational expression or DNA methylation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). This review describes the current progress in the field considering two aspects: (i) the way miRNAs are produced and regulated and (ii) the way miRNA/target genes are used in plant responses to various abiotic stresses. Studying the molecular mechanism of action of miRNAs’ downstream target genes could optimize the genetic manipulation of crop growth and development conditions to provide a more theoretically optimized basis for improving crop production. MicroRNA is a novel signalling mechanism in interplant communication relating to abiotic tolerance.
Optical Polymorphism of Liquid–Crystalline Dispersions of DNA at High Concentrations of Crowding Polymer
Authors: Morozov Vladimir N. , Klimovich Mikhail A. , Shibaeva Anna V. , Klimovich Olga N. , Koshevaya Ekaterina D. , Kolyvanova Maria A. , Kuzmin Vladimir A.
Published: July 2023

Optically active liquid–crystalline dispersions (LCD) of nucleic acids, obtained by polymer- and salt-induced (psi-) condensation, e.g., by mixing of aqueous saline solutions of low molecular weight DNA (≤106 Da) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), possess an outstanding circular dichroism (CD) signal (so-called psi-CD) and are of interest for sensor applications. Typically, such CD signals are observed in PEG content from ≈12.5% to ≈22%. However, in the literature, there are very conflicting data on the existence of psi-CD in DNA LCDs at a higher content of crowding polymer up to 30–40%. In the present work, we demonstrate that, in the range of PEG content in the system above ≈24%, optically polymorphic LCDs can be formed, characterized by both negative and positive psi-CD signals, as well as by ones rather slightly differing from the spectrum of isotropic DNA solution. Such a change in the CD signal is determined by the concentration of the stock solution of PEG used for the preparation of LCDs. We assume that various saturation of polymer chains with water molecules may affect the amount of active water, which in turn leads to a change in the hydration of DNA molecules and their transition from B-form to Z-form.
Spatially Resolved Proteomic and Transcriptomic Profiling of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Rearranged Pulmonary Adenocarcinomas Reveals Key Players in Inter- and Intratumoral Heterogeneity
Authors: Szeitz Beáta , Glasz Tibor , Herold Zoltán , Tóth Gábor , Balbisi Mirjam , Fillinger János , Horváth Szabolcs , Mohácsi Réka , Kwon Ho Jeong , Moldvay Judit , Turiák Lilla , Szász Attila Marcell
Published: July 2023

Pulmonary adenocarcinomas (pADCs) with an ALK rearrangement are a rare cancer subtype, necessitating comprehensive molecular investigations to unravel their heterogeneity and improve therapeutic strategies. In this pilot study, we employed spatial transcriptomic (NanoString GeoMx) and proteomic profiling to investigate seven treatment-naïve pADCs with an ALK rearrangement. On each FFPE tumor slide, 12 smaller and 2–6 larger histopathologically annotated regions were selected for transcriptomic and proteomic analysis, respectively. The correlation between proteomics and transcriptomics was modest (average Pearson’s r = 0.43 at the gene level). Intertumoral heterogeneity was more pronounced than intratumoral heterogeneity, and normal adjacent tissue exhibited distinct molecular characteristics. We identified potential markers and dysregulated pathways associated with tumors, with a varying extent of immune infiltration, as well as with mucin and stroma content. Notably, some markers appeared to be specific to the ALK-driven subset of pADCs. Our data showed that within tumors, elements of the extracellular matrix, including FN1, exhibited substantial variability. Additionally, we mapped the co-localization patterns of tumor microenvironment elements. This study represents the first spatially resolved profiling of ALK-driven pADCs at both the gene and protein expression levels. Our findings may contribute to a better understanding of this cancer type prior to treatment with ALK inhibitors.
The Novel Role of Zfp296 in Mammalian Embryonic Genome Activation as an H3K9me3 Modulator
Authors: Gao Lu , Zhang Zihan , Zheng Xiaoman , Wang Fan , Deng Yi , Zhang Qian , Wang Guoyan , Zhang Yong , Liu Xu
Published: July 2023

The changes in epigenetic modifications during early embryonic development significantly impact mammalian embryonic genome activation (EGA) and are species-conserved to some degree. Here, we reanalyzed the published RNA-Seq of human, mouse, and goat early embryos and found that Zfp296 (zinc finger protein 296) expression was higher at the EGA stage than at the oocyte stage in all three species (adjusted p-value < 0.05 |log2(foldchange)| ≥ 1). Subsequently, we found that Zfp296 was conserved across human, mouse, goat, sheep, pig, and bovine embryos. In addition, we identified that ZFP296 interacts with the epigenetic regulators KDM5B, SMARCA4, DNMT1, DNMT3B, HP1β, and UHRF1. The Cys2-His2(C2H2) zinc finger domain TYPE2 TYPE3 domains of ZFP296 co-regulated the modification level of the trimethylation of lysine 9 on the histone H3 protein subunit (H3K9me3). According to ChIP-seq analysis, ZFP296 was also enriched in Trim28, Suv39h1, Setdb1, Kdm4a, and Ehmt2 in the mESC genome. Then, knockdown of the expression of Zfp296 at the late zygote of the mouse led to the early developmental arrest of the mouse embryos and failure resulting from a decrease in H3K9me3. Together, our results reveal that Zfp296 is an H3K9me3 modulator which is essential to the embryonic genome activation of mouse embryos.
Identification of the Intestinal Microbes Associated with Locomotion
Authors: Ahn Ji-Seon , Choi Yu-Jin , Kim Han-Byeol , Chung Hea-Jong , Hong Seong-Tshool
Published: July 2023

Given the impact of the gut microbiome on human physiology and aging, it is possible that the gut microbiome may affect locomotion in the same way as the host’s own genes. There is not yet any direct evidence linking the gut microbiome to locomotion, though there are some potential connections, such as regular physical activity and the immune system. In this study, we demonstrate that the gut microbiome can contribute differently to locomotion. We remodeled the original gut microbiome of mice through fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) using human feces and compared the changes in locomotion of the same mice before and three months after FMT. We found that FMT affected locomotion in three different ways: positive, none (the same), and negative. Analysis of the phylogenesis, α-diversities, and β-diversities of the gut microbiome in the three groups showed that a more diverse group of intestinal microbes was established after FMT in each of the three groups, indicating that the human gut microbiome is more diverse than that of mice. The FMT-remodeled gut microbiome in each group was also different from each other. Fold change and linear correlation analyses identified Lacrimispora indolis, Pseudoflavonifractor phocaeensis, and Alistipes senegalensis in the gut microbiome as positive contributors to locomotion, while Sphingobacterium cibi, Prevotellamassilia timonensis, Parasutterella excrementihominis, Faecalibaculum rodentium, and Muribaculum intestinale were found to have negative effects. This study not only confirms the presence of gut microbiomes that contribute differently to locomotion, but also explains the mixed results in research on the association between the gut microbiome and locomotion.
Tick Densities and Infection Prevalence on Coastal Islands in Massachusetts, USA: Establishing a Baseline
Authors: Snow Allison A. , Pearson Patrick , Xu Guang , Allen David N. , Santamaria Roberto , Rich Stephen M.
Published: July 2023

Tick-borne diseases and a tick-induced red meat allergy have become increasingly common in the northeastern USA and elsewhere. At the scale of local communities, few studies have documented tick densities or infection levels to characterize current conditions and provide a baseline for further monitoring. Using the town of Nantucket, MA, as a case study, we recorded tick densities by drag sampling along hiking trails in nature preserves on two islands. Nymphal blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis Say) were most abundant at shadier sites and least common in grasslands and scrub oak thickets (Quercus ilicifolia). Lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum L.) were common on Tuckernuck Island and rare on Nantucket Island, while both tick species were more numerous in 2021 compared to 2020 and 2022. We tested for pathogens in blacklegged nymphs at five sites over two years. In 2020 and 2021, infection levels among the four Nantucket Island sites averaged 10% vs. 19% for Borrelia burgdorferi, 11% vs. 15% for Babesia microti, and 17% (both years) for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, while corresponding levels were significantly greater on Tuckernuck in 2021. Our site-specific, quantitative approach represents a practical example of how potential exposure to tick-borne diseases can be monitored on a local scale.
Assessment and Therapeutic Modulation of Heart Rate Variability: Potential Implications in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Schnekenberg Luiz , Sedghi Annahita , Schoene Daniela , Pallesen Lars-Peder , Barlinn Jessica , Woitek Felix , Linke Axel , Puetz Volker , Barlinn Kristian , Mangner Norman , Siepmann Timo
Published: July 2023

Cardiac damage has been attributed to SARS-CoV-2-related pathology contributing to increased risk of vascular events. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a parameter of functional neurocardiac integrity with low HRV constituting an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality. Whether structural cardiac damage translates into neurocardiac dysfunction in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 remains poorly understood. Hypothesized mechanisms of possible neurocardiac dysfunction in COVID-19 comprise direct systemic neuroinvasion of autonomic control centers, ascending virus propagation along cranial nerves and cardiac autonomic neuropathy. While the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and the cytokine cascade in general has been studied extensively, the interplay between the inflammatory response caused by SARS-CoV-2 and autonomic cardiovascular regulation remains largely unclear. We reviewed the current literature on the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of autonomic neurocardiac function assessment via analysis of HRV including time domain and spectral analysis techniques in patients with COVID-19. Furthermore, we discuss potential therapeutic targets of modulating neurocardiac function in this high-risk population including HRV biofeedback and the impact of long COVID on HRV as well as the approaches of clinical management. These topics might be of particular interest with respect to multimodal pandemic preparedness concepts.
Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Young Adults (18–25 Years) in Mozambique
Authors: Silva Isa , Damasceno Albertino , Fontes Filipa , Araújo Natália , Prista António , Jessen Neusa , Padrão Patrícia , Silva-Matos Carla , Lunet Nuno
Published: July 2023

The life course development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and the undergoing epidemiological transition in Mozambique highlight the importance of monitoring the cardiovascular risk profile in young adults. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the prevalence of CVD risk factors in a population aged 18–25 years living in Mozambique. A total of 776 young adults from a nationally representative sample were evaluated in 2014/2015 following the World Health Organization’s STEPwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance. Current smoking was the most prevalent among rural men (10.8%, 95%CI: 6.3–17.8), and drinking was most prevalent among urban men (38.6%, 95%CI: 29.3–48.8). The proportion of young adults not engaging in at least 75 min of vigorous physical activity per week ranged between 14.5% in rural men and 61.6% in urban women. The prevalence of being overweight/obese and hypertension were highest among urban women (21.6%, 95%CI: 14.7–30.6) and urban men (25.2%, 95%CI: 15.9–37.6), respectively. Education >8 years (vs. none) was independently associated with lower odds of being a current smoker, and increased monthly household income was associated with increased odds of low levels of physical activity. This study shows that important CVD risk factors are already common in the young adult population of Mozambique.
Predictors of Changes in Quality of Life of Patients with Major Depressive Disorder—A Prospective Naturalistic 3-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Dionisie Vlad , Puiu Maria Gabriela , Manea Mirela , Pacearcă Ioana Anca
Published: July 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the leading causes of disease burden worldwide and affected patients frequently report impairments in quality of life (QoL). Therefore, the present research aimed to identify predictors of domain-specific QoL changes in MDD patients following the acute phase of pharmacological treatment (3-month). This study is a prospective, naturalistic, and observational analysis on 150 patients. Depressive symptoms, QoL, overall pain intensity, and functionality were assessed using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, World Health Organization Quality of Life scale—abbreviated version, Visual Analog Scale, and Sheehan Disability Scale, respectively. Reductions in symptom severity and disability were predictors of improvement across all domains of QoL. Pain intensity reduction was a predictor of increases in the physical aspect of QoL. A reduced number of psychiatric hospitalizations and being in a relationship predicted an improvement of QoL in the psychological domain whereas a positive history of suicidal attempts was associated with better social relationships QoL. The predictive models explained 41.2% and 54.7% of the variance in psychological and physical health domains of QoL, respectively. Awareness of sociodemographic and changes in clinical factors that impact the change in domain-specific QoL might help in shaping personalized treatment.
Effects of Vibrotherapy with Different Characteristics and Body Position on Post-Exercise Recovery after Anaerobic Exercise
Authors: Pałka Tomasz , Maciejczyk Marcin , Czerwińska-Ledwig Olga , Tota Łukasz , Bawelski Marek , Leiva-Arcas Alejandro , Stabrawa Rafał , Bujas Przemysław , Mucha Dawid , Wiśniewski Andrzej , Piotrowska Anna
Published: July 2023

The aim of this project was to indicate the optimal parameters such as frequency, duration of a single vibrotherapy, and body position, which will be used as a form of recovery modality after physical exercise. Sixteen healthy male volunteers were involved in this study. The aerobic and anaerobic capacity of participants was assessed. Each of the subjects performed a set of intensive physical exercises and then underwent vibrotherapy treatment. In random order, each of the men tested the effectiveness of eight of the combinations of frequency, duration, and body position. The effect of the procedure accelerating recovery was assessed 24 h after physical exercise with the Wingate test. Changes in oxygen saturation and biochemical markers (interleukins: Il-1β, Il-6, and creatine kinase: CK), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) were assessed 1 h and 24 h after the physical effort. Lactate concentrations were measured 3, 15, 30, and 60 min after the end of the vibration. It was indicated that the optimal treatment should be based on lower ranges of frequency values (2–52 Hz). The procedure with raised feet is also more beneficial than the flat, supine position. To improve the overall work, and a number of biochemical markers (CK and Il-1β), a 45 min treatment will be more efficient, because significantly lower CK activity was indicated for the 45 min treatment. For this duration, higher values of Il-1β were indicated in the measurement carried out for samples collected 60 min after the treatment and lower in the measurement carried out 24 h after the treatment.
Prognostic Impact of the Increase in Cardiac Troponin Levels during Tafamidis Therapy in Patients with Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis
Authors: Nakamura Makiko , Imamura Teruhiko , Ushijima Ryuichi , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: July 2023

Background: Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that tafamidis (Pfizer Inc., New York, NY, USA) reduced all-cause mortality and the number of cardiovascular hospitalizations compared with placebo in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis. However, the optimal surrogate markers during tafamidis treatment remain unknown. Methods: Consecutive patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis who received tafamidis in our institute between May 2019 and December 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. The prognostic impact of an increase in troponin I levels during tafamidis therapy was evaluated. Results: A total of 18 patients (median age 77 years, 84% male) were included. For 14-month tafamidis therapy on median, cardiac troponin I levels increased in five patients. The cumulative incidence of all-cause hospitalization was significantly higher in the troponin-increased group than in the others (100% versus 33%, p < 0.0001). Troponin increase was independently associated with the cumulative incidence of all-cause hospitalization with an adjusted hazard ratio of 5.14 (95% confidence interval 1.02–25.9, p = 0.048). Conclusions: The increase in cardiac troponin levels may be a reasonable surrogate marker of response to tafamidis therapy in patients with transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis.
First Stabilize and then Gradually Recruit: A Paradigm Shift in Protective Mechanical Ventilation for Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Nieman Gary F. , Kaczka David W. , Andrews Penny L. , Ghosh Auyon , Al-Khalisy Hassan , Camporota Luigi , Satalin Joshua , Herrmann Jacob , Habashi Nader M.
Published: July 2023

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is associated with a heterogeneous pattern of injury throughout the lung parenchyma that alters regional alveolar opening and collapse time constants. Such heterogeneity leads to atelectasis and repetitive alveolar collapse and expansion (RACE). The net effect is a progressive loss of lung volume with secondary ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Previous concepts of ARDS pathophysiology envisioned a two-compartment system: a small amount of normally aerated lung tissue in the non-dependent regions (termed “baby lung”); and a collapsed and edematous tissue in dependent regions. Based on such compartmentalization, two protective ventilation strategies have been developed: (1) a “protective lung approach” (PLA), designed to reduce overdistension in the remaining aerated compartment using a low tidal volume; and (2) an “open lung approach” (OLA), which first attempts to open the collapsed lung tissue over a short time frame (seconds or minutes) with an initial recruitment maneuver, and then stabilize newly recruited tissue using titrated positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). A more recent understanding of ARDS pathophysiology identifies regional alveolar instability and collapse (i.e., hidden micro-atelectasis) in both lung compartments as a primary VILI mechanism. Based on this understanding, we propose an alternative strategy to ventilating the injured lung, which we term a “stabilize lung approach” (SLA). The SLA is designed to immediately stabilize the lung and reduce RACE while gradually reopening collapsed tissue over hours or days. At the core of SLA is time-controlled adaptive ventilation (TCAV), a method to adjust the parameters of the airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) modality. Since the acutely injured lung at any given airway pressure requires more time for alveolar recruitment and less time for alveolar collapse, SLA adjusts inspiratory and expiratory durations and inflation pressure levels. The TCAV method SLA reverses the open first and stabilize second OLA method by: (i) immediately stabilizing lung tissue using a very brief exhalation time (≤0.5 s), so that alveoli simply do not have sufficient time to collapse. The exhalation duration is personalized and adaptive to individual respiratory mechanical properties (i.e., elastic recoil); and (ii) gradually recruiting collapsed lung tissue using an inflate and brake ratchet combined with an extended inspiratory duration (4–6 s) method. Translational animal studies, clinical statistical analysis, and case reports support the use of TCAV as an efficacious lung protective strategy.
Sleep Apnea Combined with Pulmonary Hypertension in a Veteran Patient Population
Authors: Stark Paul , Chang Eric Y.
Published: July 2023

We have investigated the concurrence of sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension in a Veteran population. We retrospectively reviewed 142 patients who underwent chest CT scans and had a dilated main pulmonary artery, defined as a width exceeding 29 mm on axial images. Approximately 40% of patients with pulmonary hypertension had associated sleep apnea. No significant difference in pulmonary artery diameters could be found between the group without sleep apnea and the group with sleep apnea (34.5 ± 4.2 mm vs. 34.7 ± 4.4 mm, p = 0.373).
Infiltrative Type I Collagen in the Treatment of Morton’s Neuroma: A Mini-Series
Authors: Giarda Federico , Agostini Adele , Colonna Stefano , Sciumè Luciana , Meroni Alberto , Beretta Giovanna , Dalla Costa Davide
Published: July 2023

Morton’s neuroma (MN) is a compressive neuropathy of the common plantar digital nerve, most commonly affecting the third inter-digital space. The conservative approach is the first recommended treatment option. However, other different approaches have been proposed, offering several options of treatments, where, several degrees of efficacy and safety have been reported. We treated five consecutive patients affected by MN through three indirect ultrasound-guided injections of type I porcine collagen at weekly intervals. All patients were assessed before the treatment, after the treatment and up to 6 months after the last injection via AOFAS and VNS scores for pain, in which the function and pain were evaluated, respectively. In all patients, both analyzed variables progressively ameliorated, with benefits lasting until the last follow-up. The trend of the scores during the follow-up showed significant statistical differences. No side effects occurred. To our knowledge, this is the first study on injections of type I porcine collagen for the treatment of Morton’s neuroma. Future research is needed to confirm the positive trend achieved in this MN mini-series.
Improving Pathways to Care for Patients at High Psychosis Risk in Switzerland: PsyYoung Study Protocol
Authors: Conchon Caroline , Sprüngli-Toffel Elodie , Alameda Luis , Edan Anne , Bailey Barbara , Solida Alessandra , Plessen Kerstin Jessica , Conus Philippe , Kapsaridi Afroditi , Genoud Davina , Crameri Aureliano , Jouabli Sondes , Caron Camille , Grob Carmina , Gros Julia , Senn Smeralda , Curtis Logos , Liso Navarro Ana , Barbe Remy , Nanzer Nathalie , Herbrecht Evelyn , Huber Christian G. , Micali Nadia , Armando Marco , Borgwardt Stefan , Andreou Christina
Published: July 2023

Aims: Psychotic disorders are one of the main causes of chronic disability in young people. An at-risk mental state (ARMS) is represented by subclinical symptoms that precede the first episode of psychosis (FEP). The PsyYoung project aims to optimize the detection of an ARMS while reducing unnecessary psychiatric treatments. It investigates the effects of service changes on the referrals and outcomes of young people with ARMS or a FEP. Methods: Six psychiatric outpatient clinics in three cantons (Basel-Stadt, Vaud, and Geneva) participated in the project. They passed through an implementation phase including service changes and the adaptation of a standardized stepped care model for diagnosis and assessment, in addition to measures for increasing the awareness, networking and training of local professionals. Preliminary results: All participating cantons had entered the implementation phase. By March 2023, there were 619 referrals to participating sites. A total of 163 patients (37% FEP and 31% ARMS) and 15 close relatives had participated in individual longitudinal assessments, and 26 patients participated in qualitative interviews. Conclusion: This national collaborative project addresses the issue of early intervention for emerging psychoses, and creates spaces for fruitful reflections and collaboration in Switzerland. The ultimate aim of PsyYoung is to harmonize clinical practices in early intervention of psychosis on a national level.
The Limitations of Periapical X-ray Assessment in Endodontic Diagnosis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Gliga Alexandru , Imre Marina , Grandini Simone , Marruganti Crystal , Gaeta Carlo , Bodnar Dana , Dimitriu Bogdan Alexandru , Foschi Federico
Published: July 2023

Diagnosis is a key aspect in endodontic treatment, in a decade where invasive interventions are misapprehended as social tendency instead of medical necessity. All diagnostic facets should be considered before intending the operative phase. Intraoral endodontic radiology-based diagnosis has been shown to be limited. Periapical X-ray is the most used endodontic imaging, yet it does not provide high accuracy. Traditionally, dentists have been trained to diagnose a cyst by certain aspects (size, shape and appearance); hence, an assumption that teeth are affected by “periapical cyst” were subjected to unnecessary extraction or apicoectomy. The aim of this systematic review is to critically appraise the publications that relate the histological diagnosis of a periapical lesion (considered the gold standard) to intraoral X-ray investigation. Ovid Medline, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Mendeley and Scopus were searched for English-language studies comparing periapical diagnosis obtained by using two techniques (histopathology and X-ray). Sixteen articles were included for the final analysis (qualitative and quantitative evaluation) out of which only two supported the statement that periapical diagnosis can be coherently assessed through periapical imaging. Although there is not enough evidence to deliver a definitive conclusion, there are many publications that refute the diagnosis of a cyst via periapical X-ray.
A Focused Review of the Initial Management of Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Motes Arunee , Singh Tushi , Vinan Vega Noella , Nugent Kenneth
Published: July 2023

At present, the management of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) largely focuses on ventilator settings to limit intrathoracic pressures by using low tidal volumes and on FiO2/PEEP relationships to maintain optimal gas exchange. Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a complex medical disorder that can develop in several primary acute disorders, has a rapid time course, and has several classifications that can reflect either the degree of hypoxemia, the extent of radiographic involvement, or the underlying pathogenesis. The identification of subtypes of patients with ARDS would potentially make precision medicine possible in these patients. This is a very difficult challenge given the heterogeneity in the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and treatment responses in these patients. The analysis of large databases of patients with acute respiratory failure using statistical methods such as cluster analysis could identify phenotypes that have different outcomes or treatment strategies. However, clinical information available on presentation is unlikely to separate patients into groups that allow for secure treatment decisions or outcome predictions. In some patients, non-invasive positive pressure ventilation provides adequate support through episodes of acute respiratory failure, and the development of specialized units to manage patients with this support might lead to the better use of hospital resources. Patients with ARDS have capillary leak, which results in interstitial and alveolar edema. Early attention to fluid balance in these patients might improve gas exchange and alter the pathophysiology underlying the development of severe ARDS. Finally, more attention to the interaction of patients with ventilators through complex monitoring systems has the potential to identify ventilator dyssynchrony, leading to ventilator adjustments and potentially better outcomes. Recent studies with COVID-19 patients provide tentative answers to some of these questions. In addition, expert clinical investigators have analyzed the promise and difficulties associated with the development of precision medicine in patients with ARDS.
Current Clinical Research Directions on Temporomandibular Joint Intra-Articular Injections: A Mapping Review
Authors: Chęciński Maciej , Chęcińska Kamila , Turosz Natalia , Brzozowska Anita , Chlubek Dariusz , Sikora Maciej
Published: July 2023

This mapping review aims to identify and discuss current research directions on intracavitary temporomandibular joints (TMJs) injections. The inclusion criteria allowed studies published in the last full six years, based on patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs), treated by TMJ intra-articular injections. Medical databases covered by the Association for Computing Machinery, Bielefeld Academic Search Engine, PubMed, and Elsevier Scopus engines were searched. The results were visualized with tables, charts, and diagrams. Of the 2712 records identified following the selection process, 152 reports were qualified for review. From January 2017, viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid (HA) was the best-documented injectable administered into TMJ cavities. However, a significant growing trend was observed in the number of primary studies on centrifuged blood preparations administrations that surpassed the previously leading HA from 2021.
Absence of Oligoclonal Bands in Multiple Sclerosis: A Call for Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Katsarogiannis Evangelos , Landtblom Anne-Marie , Kristoffersson Anna , Wikström Johan , Semnic Robert , Berntsson Shala G.
Published: July 2023

Background: Immunoglobulin gamma (IgG) oligoclonal bands (OCB) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are absent in a small group of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. According to previous research, OCB-negative MS patients differ genetically but not clinically from OCB-positive MS patients. However, whether OCB-negative MS is a unique immunological and clinical entity remains unclear. The absence of OCB poses a significant challenge in diagnosing MS. (1) Objective: The objective of this study was twofold: (1) to determine the prevalence of OCB-negative MS patients in the Uppsala region, and (2) to assess the frequency of misdiagnosis in this patient group. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective study using data from the Swedish MS registry (SMSreg) covering 83% of prevalent MS cases up to 20 June 2020 to identify all MS patients in the Uppsala region. Subsequently, we collected relevant information from the medical records of all OCB-negative MS cases, including age of onset, gender, presenting symptoms, MRI features, phenotype, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). (3) Results: Out of 759 MS patients identified, 69 had an OCB-negative MS diagnosis. Upon re-evaluation, 46 patients had a typical history and MRI findings of MS, while 23 had unusual clinical and/or radiologic features. An alternative diagnosis was established for the latter group, confirming the incorrectness of the initial MS diagnosis. The average EDSS score was 2.0 points higher in the MS group than in the non-MS group (p = 0.001). The overall misdiagnosis rate in the cohort was 33%, with 22% of misdiagnosed patients having received DMTs. (4) Conclusions: Our results confirm that the absence of OCB in the CSF should raise suspicion of possible misdiagnosis in MS patients and prompt a diagnostic reassessment.
Carbon-Fiber- and Nanodiamond-Reinforced PLA Hierarchical 3D-Printed Core Sandwich Structures
Authors: Mansour Michel Theodor , Tsongas Konstantinos , Tzetzis Dimitrios
Published: July 2023

The aim of the present paper is to investigate the mechanical behavior of FFF 3D-printed specimens of polylactic acid (PLA), PLA reinforced with nanodiamonds (PLA/uDiamond) and PLA reinforced with carbon fibers (PLA/CF) under various experimental tests such as compressive and cyclic compressive tests, nanoindentation tests, as well as scanning electron microscopy tests (SEM). Furthermore, the current work aims to design and fabricate hierarchical honeycombs of the zeroth, first and second order using materials under investigation, and perform examination tests of their dynamic behavior. The mechanical behavior of hierarchical sandwich structures was determined by conducting experimental bending tests along with finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. The results reveal that the incorporation of nanodiamonds into the PLA matrix enhanced the elastic modulus, strength and hardness of the 3D-printed specimens. In addition, the second order of the PLA/uD hierarchical sandwich structure presented increased strength, elastic and flexural modulus in comparison with the zeroth and first hierarchies. Regarding the dynamic behavior, the second order of the PLA/uD honeycomb structure revealed the biggest increase in stiffness as compared to PLA nanocomposite filaments.
Asymmetric Magneto-Optical Rotation in Magnetoplasmonic Nanocomposites
Authors: Tomilin Sergey , Karavaynikov Andrey , Lyashko Sergey , Tomilina Olga , Berzhansky Vladimir , Gusev Alexey , Linert Wolfgang , Yanovsky Alexander
Published: July 2023

The results of the asymmetric magneto-optical rotation in the magnetoplasmonic nanocomposite study are presented. The asymmetry is observed in spectra of magneto-optical rotation when a magneto-optical medium with a plasmonic subsystem is magnetized along or against the radiation wave vector. The asymmetry is observed as vertical displacement of a magneto-optical hysteresis loop too. Such asymmetry is detected in magnetoplasmonic nanocomposite, which consists of a magneto-optical layer of Bi substituted iron-garnet intercalated with a plasmonic subsystem of gold self-assembled nanoparticles. It is shown that the physical reason for the asymmetric magneto-optical rotation is the manifestation of the Cotton–Mouton birefringence effect when the normal magnetization of the sample to a radiation wave vector appears due to the magnetic component of the electromagnetic field of resonating nanoparticles. This effect is additive to the basic magneto-optical Faraday Effect.