bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the Host–Pathogen Interactome of the Wheat–Common Bunt System: A Step towards Enhanced Resilience in Next Generation Wheat
Authors: Kataria Raghav , Kaundal Rakesh
Published: February 2022

Common bunt, caused by two fungal species, Tilletia caries and Tilletia laevis, is one of the most potentially destructive diseases of wheat. Despite the availability of synthetic chemicals against the disease, organic agriculture relies greatly on resistant cultivars. Using two computational approaches—interolog and domain-based methods—a total of approximately 58 M and 56 M probable PPIs were predicted in T. aestivum–T. caries and T. aestivum–T. laevis interactomes, respectively. We also identified 648 and 575 effectors in the interactions from T. caries and T. laevis, respectively. The major host hubs belonged to the serine/threonine protein kinase, hsp70, and mitogen-activated protein kinase families, which are actively involved in plant immune signaling during stress conditions. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the host proteins revealed significant GO terms (O-methyltransferase activity, regulation of response to stimulus, and plastid envelope) and pathways (NF-kappa B signaling and the MAPK signaling pathway) related to plant defense against pathogens. Subcellular localization suggested that most of the pathogen proteins target the host in the plastid. Furthermore, a comparison between unique T. caries and T. laevis proteins was carried out. We also identified novel host candidates that are resistant to disease. Additionally, the host proteins that serve as transcription factors were also predicted.
Exudative versus Nonexudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Physiopathology and Treatment Options
Authors: Fernandes Ana Rita , Zielińska Aleksandra , Sanchez-Lopez Elena , dos Santos Tiago , Garcia Maria Luisa , Silva Amelia M. , Karczewski Jacek , Souto Eliana B.
Published: February 2022

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease typically associated with the aging and can be classified into two types—namely, the exudative and the nonexudative AMD. Currently available treatments for exudative AMD use intravitreal injections, which are associated with high risk of infection that can lead to endophthalmitis, while no successful treatments yet exist for the nonexudative form of AMD. In addition to the pharmacologic therapies administered by intravitreal injection already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in exudative AMD, there are some laser treatments approved that can be used in combination with the pharmacological therapies. In this review, we discuss the latest developments of treatment options for AMD. Relevant literature available from 1993 was used, which included original articles and reviews available in PubMed database and also information collected from Clinical Trials Gov website using “age-related macular degeneration” and “antiangiogenic therapies” as keywords. The clinical trials search was limited to ongoing trials from 2015 to date.
Tumor-Specificity, Neurotoxicity, and Possible Involvement of the Nuclear Receptor Response Pathway of 4,6,8-Trimethyl Azulene Amide Derivatives
Authors: Naitoh Kotone , Orihara Yuta , Sakagami Hiroshi , Miura Takumi , Satoh Keitaro , Amano Shigeru , Bandow Kenjiro , Iijima Yosuke , Kurosaki Kota , Uesawa Yoshihiro , Hashimoto Masashi , Wakabayashi Hidetsugu
Published: February 2022

Background: Very few papers covering the anticancer activity of azulenes have been reported, as compared with those of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity. This led us to investigate the antitumor potential of fifteen 4,6,8-trimethyl azulene amide derivatives against oral malignant cells. Methods: 4,6,8-Trimethyl azulene amide derivatives were newly synthesized. Anticancer activity was evaluated by tumor-specificity against four human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines over three normal oral cells. Neurotoxicity was evaluated by cytotoxicity against three neuronal cell lines over normal oral cells. Apoptosis induction was evaluated by Western blot and cell cycle analyses. Results: Among fifteen derivatives, compounds 7, 9, and 15 showed the highest anticancer activity, and relatively lower neurotoxicity than doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and melphalan. They induced the accumulation of a comparable amount of a subG1 population, but slightly lower extent of caspase activation, as compared with actinomycin D, used as an apoptosis inducer. The quantitative structure–activity relationship analysis suggests the significant correlation of tumor-specificity with a 3D shape of molecules, and possible involvement of inflammation and hormone receptor response pathways. Conclusions: Compounds 7 and 15 can be potential candidates of a lead compound for developing novel anticancer drugs.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors Downregulate Calcium Pyrophosphate Crystal Formation in Human Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Chang Chi-Ching , Lee Kun-Lin , Chan Tze-Sian , Chung Chia-Chen , Liang Yu-Chih
Published: February 2022

Calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) deposition disease (CPPD) is a form of CPP crystal-induced arthritis. A high concentration of extracellular pyrophosphate (ePPi) in synovial fluid is positively correlated with the formation of CPP crystals, and ePPi can be upregulated by ankylosis human (ANKH) and ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase 1 (ENPP1) and downregulated by tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP). However, there is currently no drug that eliminates CPP crystals. We explored the effects of the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (HDACis) trichostatin A (TSA) and vorinostat (SAHA) on CPP formation. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-treated human primary cultured articular chondrocytes (HC-a cells) were used to increase ePPi and CPP formation, which were determined by pyrophosphate assay and CPP crystal staining assay, respectively. Artificial substrates thymidine 5′-monophosphate p-nitrophenyl ester (p-NpTMP) and p-nitrophenyl phosphate (p-NPP) were used to estimate ENPP1 and TNAP activities, respectively. The HDACis TSA and SAHA significantly reduced mRNA and protein expressions of ANKH and ENPP1 but increased TNAP expression in a dose-dependent manner in HC-a cells. Further results demonstrated that TSA and SAHA decreased ENPP1 activity, increased TNAP activity, and limited levels of ePPi and CPP. As expected, both TSA and SAHA significantly increased the acetylation of histones 3 and 4 but failed to block Smad-2 phosphorylation induced by TGF-β1. These results suggest that HDACis prevented the formation of CPP by regulating ANKH, ENPP1, and TNAP expressions and can possibly be developed as a potential drug to treat or prevent CPPD.
Molecular Pathogenesis of Glioblastoma in Adults and Future Perspectives: A Systematic Review
Authors: Esemen Yagmur , Awan Mariam , Parwez Rabeeia , Baig Arsalan , Rahman Shahinur , Masala Ilaria , Franchini Sonia , Giakoumettis Dimitrios
Published: February 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and malignant tumour of the central nervous system. Recent appreciation of the heterogeneity amongst these tumours not only changed the WHO classification approach, but also created the need for developing novel and personalised therapies. This systematic review aims to highlight recent advancements in understanding the molecular pathogenesis of the GBM and discuss related novel treatment targets. A systematic search of the literature in the PubMed library was performed following the PRISMA guidelines for molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic advances. Original and meta-analyses studies from the last ten years were reviewed using pre-determined search terms. The results included articles relevant to GBM development focusing on the aberrancy in cell signaling pathways and intracellular events. Theragnostic targets and vaccination to treat GBM were also explored. The molecular pathophysiology of GBM is complex. Our systematic review suggests targeting therapy at the stemness, p53 mediated pathways and immune modulation. Exciting novel immune therapy involving dendritic cell vaccines, B-cell vaccines and viral vectors may be the future of treating GBM.
Semaphorin 6C Suppresses Proliferation of Pancreatic Cancer Cells via Inhibition of the AKT/GSK3/β-Catenin/Cyclin D1 Pathway
Authors: Hung Yu-Hsuan , Hsu Shih-Han , Hou Ya-Chin , Chu Pei-Yi , Su Yung-Yeh , Shan Yan-Shen , Hung Wen-Chun , Chen Li-Tzong
Published: February 2022

Semaphorins (SEMAs) are axon guidance factors that participate in axonal connections and nerve system development. However, the functional roles of SEMAs in tumorigenesis are still largely uncovered. By using in silico data analysis, we found that SEMA6C was downregulated in pancreatic cancer, and its reduction was correlated with worse survival rates. RNA sequencing revealed that cell cycle-related genes, especially cyclin D1, were significantly altered after blockage of SEMA6C by neutralizing antibodies or ectopic expressions of SEMA6C. Mechanistic investigation demonstrated that SEMA6C acts as a tumor suppressor in pancreatic cancer by inhibiting the AKT/GSK3 signaling axis, resulting in a decrease in cyclin D1 expression and cellular proliferation. The enhancement of cyclin D1 expression and cyclin-dependent kinase activation in SEMA6C-low cancer created a druggable target of CDK4/6 inhibitors. We also elucidated the mechanism underlying SEMA6C downregulation in pancreatic cancer and demonstrated a novel regulatory role of miR-124-3p in suppressing SEMA6C. This study provides new insights of SEMA6C-mediated anti-cancer action and suggests the treatment of SEMA6C-downregulated cancer by CDK4/6 inhibitors.
CuxCo1-xFe2O4 (x = 0.33, 0.67, 1) Spinel Ferrite Nanoparticles Based Thermoplastic Polyurethane Nanocomposites with Reduced Graphene Oxide for Highly Efficient Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Anju  , Yadav Raghvendra Singh , Pötschke Petra , Pionteck Jürgen , Krause Beate , Kuřitka Ivo , Vilčáková Jarmila , Škoda David , Urbánek Pavel , Machovský Michal , Masař Milan , Urbánek Michal
Published: February 2022

CuxCo1-xFe2O4 (x = 0.33, 0.67, 1)-reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites exhibiting highly efficient electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding were prepared by a melt-mixing approach using a microcompounder. Spinel ferrite Cu0.33Co0.67Fe2O4 (CuCoF1), Cu0.67Co0.33Fe2O4 (CuCoF2) and CuFe2O4 (CuF3) nanoparticles were synthesized using the sonochemical method. The CuCoF1 and CuCoF2 exhibited typical ferromagnetic features, whereas CuF3 displayed superparamagnetic characteristics. The maximum value of EMI total shielding effectiveness (SET) was noticed to be 42.9 dB, 46.2 dB, and 58.8 dB for CuCoF1-rGO-TPU, CuCoF2-rGO-TPU, and CuF3-rGO-TPU nanocomposites, respectively, at a thickness of 1 mm. The highly efficient EMI shielding performance was attributed to the good impedance matching, conductive, dielectric, and magnetic loss. The demonstrated nanocomposites are promising candidates for a lightweight, flexible, and highly efficient EMI shielding material.
Inter-Species Rescue of Mutant Phenotype—The Standard for Genetic Analysis of Human Genetic Disorders in Drosophila melanogaster Model
Authors: Ecovoiu Alexandru Al. , Ratiu Attila Cristian , Micheu Miruna Mihaela , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen
Published: February 2022

Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly) is arguably a superstar of genetics, an astonishing versatile experimental model which fueled no less than six Nobel prizes in medicine. Nowadays, an evolving research endeavor is to simulate and investigate human genetic diseases in the powerful D. melanogaster platform. Such a translational experimental strategy is expected to allow scientists not only to understand the molecular mechanisms of the respective disorders but also to alleviate or even cure them. In this regard, functional gene orthology should be initially confirmed in vivo by transferring human or vertebrate orthologous transgenes in specific mutant backgrounds of D. melanogaster. If such a transgene rescues, at least partially, the mutant phenotype, then it qualifies as a strong candidate for modeling the respective genetic disorder in the fruit fly. Herein, we review various examples of inter-species rescue of relevant mutant phenotypes of the fruit fly and discuss how these results recommend several human genes as candidates to study and validate genetic variants associated with human diseases. We also consider that a wider implementation of this evolutionist exploratory approach as a standard for the medicine of genetic disorders would allow this particular field of human health to advance at a faster pace.
Biodiversity and Metabolic Potential of Bacteria in Bulk Soil from the Peri-Root Zone of Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Silver Birch (Betula pendula) and Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
Authors: Gałązka Anna , Marzec-Grządziel Anna , Varsadiya Milan , Niedźwiecki Jacek , Gawryjołek Karolina , Furtak Karolina , Przybyś Marcin , Grządziel Jarosław
Published: February 2022

The formation of specific features of forest habitats is determined by the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil. The aim of the study was to determine the structural and functional biodiversity of soil microorganisms inhabiting the bulk soil from the peri-root zone of three tree species: Alnus glutinosa, Betula pendula, and Pinus sylvestris. Soil samples were collected from a semi-deciduous forest located in an area belonging to the Agricultural Experimental Station IUNG-PIB in Osiny, Poland. The basic chemical and biological parameters of soils were determined, as well as the structural diversity of bacteria (16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing) and the metabolic profile of microorganisms (Biolog EcoPlates). The bulk soils collected from peri-root zone of A. glutinosa were characterized by the highest enzymatic activities. Moreover, the highest metabolic activities on EcoPlates were observed in bulk soil collected in the proximity of the root system the A. glutinosa and B. pendula. In turn, the bulk soil collected from peri-root zone of P. sylvestris had much lower biological activity and a lower metabolic potential. The most metabolized compounds were L-phenylalanine, L-asparagine, D-mannitol, and gamma-hydroxy-butyric acid. The highest values of the diversity indicators were in the soils collected in the proximity of the root system of A. glutinosa and B. pendula. The bulk soil collected from P. sylvestris peri-root zone was characterized by the lowest Shannon’s diversity index. In turn, the evenness index (E) was the highest in soils collected from the P. sylvestris, which indicated significantly lower diversity in these soils. The most abundant classes of bacteria in all samples were Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria_Gp1, and Alphaproteobacteria. The classes Bacilli, Thermoleophilia, Betaproteobacteria, and Subdivision3 were dominant in the B. pendula bulk soil. Streptosporangiales was the most significantly enriched order in the B. pendula soil compared with the A. glutinosa and P. sylvestris. There was a significantly higher mean proportion of aerobic nitrite oxidation, nitrate reduction, sulphate respiration, and sulfur compound respiration in the bulk soil of peri-root zone of A. glutinosa. Our research confirms that the evaluation of soil biodiversity and metabolic potential of bacteria can be of great assistance in a quality and health control tool in the soils of forested areas and in the forest production. Identification of bacteria that promote plant growth and have a high biotechnological potential can be assume a substantial improvement in the ecosystem and use of the forest land.
Molecular Mechanisms and Biomarkers Associated with Chemotherapy-Induced AKI
Authors: De Chiara Letizia , Lugli Gianmarco , Villa Gianluca , Raglianti Valentina , Husain-Syed Faeq , Ravaglia Fiammetta , Romagnani Paola , Lazzeri Elena
Published: February 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a life-threatening condition characterized by a rapid and transient decrease in kidney function. AKI is part of an array of conditions collectively defined as acute kidney diseases (AKD). In AKD, persistent kidney damage and dysfunction lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) over time. A variety of insults can trigger AKI; however, chemotherapy-associated nephrotoxicity is increasingly recognized as a significant side effect of chemotherapy. New biomarkers are urgently needed to identify patients at high risk of developing chemotherapy-associated nephrotoxicity and subsequent AKI. However, a lack of understanding of cellular mechanisms that trigger chemotherapy-related nephrotoxicity has hindered the identification of effective biomarkers to date. In this review, we aim to (1) describe the known and potential mechanisms related to chemotherapy-induced AKI; (2) summarize the available biomarkers for early AKI detection, and (3) raise awareness of chemotherapy-induced AKI.
A Randomized and Controlled Research Study Assessing the Emotions and Beliefs of Future Middle School Science Teachers toward Terrestrial Isopods
Authors: Wagler Ron , Wagler Amy
Published: February 2022

Terrestrial isopods, a diverse group of small crustaceans, are a beneficial component of a healthy ecosystem. Terrestrial isopods are also excellent living animals to have in a middle school science classroom. The current study evaluated if future middle school science teachers would utilize living terrestrial isopods in their classroom, and if they would not, to what extent fear and disgust towards arthropods was a factor that influenced their decision to avoid them. Before the terrestrial isopod activities, the teachers had moderate fear and moderate disgust toward terrestrial isopods and had no desire to teacher their students about terrestrial isopods. After participating in the terrestrial isopod activities, the teachers had no fear and no disgust toward terrestrial isopods and had a strong desire to teach their students about terrestrial isopods. Based on the findings of this study, new discoveries and powerful recommendations are presented that are relevant to those that are involved in the preparation of future middle school science teachers and those that provide professional development for current middle school science teachers.
Detection of SF3B1 p.Lys700Glu Mutation by PNA-PCR Clamping in Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Petiti Jessica , Itri Federico , Signorino Elisabetta , Frolli Antonio , Fava Carmen , Armenio Marco , Marini Silvia , Giugliano Emilia , Lo Iacono Marco , Saglio Giuseppe , Cilloni Daniela
Published: February 2022

Mutations in SF3B1 are found in 20% of myelodysplastic syndromes and 5–10% of myeloproliferative neoplasms, where they are considered important for diagnosis and therapy decisions. Sanger sequencing and NGS are the currently available methods to identify SF3B1 mutations, but both are time-consuming and expensive techniques that are not practicable in most small-/medium-sized laboratories. To identify the most frequent SF3B1 mutation, p.Lys700Glu, we developed a novel fast and cheap assay based on PNA-PCR clamping. After setting the optimal PCR conditions, the limit of detection of PNA-PCR clamping was evaluated, and the method allowed up to 0.1% of mutated SF3B1 to be identified. Successively, PNA-PCR clamping and Sanger sequencing were used to blind test 90 DNA from patients affected by myelodysplastic syndromes and myeloproliferative neoplasms for the SF3B1 p.Lys700Glu mutation. PNA-PCR clamping and Sanger sequencing congruently identified 75 negative and 13 positive patients. Two patients identified as positive by PNA-PCR clamping were missed by Sanger analysis. The discordant samples were analyzed by NGS, which confirmed the PNA-PCR clamping result, indicating that these samples contained the SF3B1 p.Lys700Glu mutation. This approach could easily increase the characterization of myelodysplastic syndromes and myeloproliferative neoplasms in small-/medium-sized laboratories, and guide patients towards more appropriate therapy.
Autologous Microfragmented Adipose Tissue for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: Real-World Data at Two Years Follow-Up
Authors: Screpis Daniele , Natali Simone , Farinelli Luca , Piovan Gianluca , Iacono Venanzio , de Girolamo Laura , Viganò Marco , Zorzi Claudio
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the present study was to assess, prospectively, the safety, clinical effectiveness, and feasibility of a single intra-articular injection of microfragmented adipose tissue in different stages of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The study included patients (aged 18–70 years), affected by OA (Kellgren–Lawrence I-IV). Unselected patients were evaluated before and prospectively after 6, 12, and 24 months from the injection. Visual analog scale (VAS) and knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) were used for clinical evaluations. A total of 202 patients were eligible. The mean follow-up time in the cohort of patients was 24.5 ± 9.6 months. Total KOOS significantly improved from pre-operative baseline levels to 6-month follow-up (p < 0.001), and again between 6- and 12-month follow-ups (p < 0.001). The VAS showed a prompt reduction at 6 months (p < 0.001 vs. baseline), but then it increased again at 12 months compared to the 6-month assessment (p < 0.001), even though it remained lower than baseline (p < 0.001). At 24 months, patients with KL-IV demonstrated a lower improvement compared to baseline; patients that had undergone previous corticosteroid injections had a greater risk to further injection treatment. The collected clinical results suggest that MFAT may represent a safe and effective treatment for OA symptoms, offering a low-demanding and minimally invasive treatment.
Efficacy of Arthroscopic Shavers for the Retrieval and Processing of Connective Tissue Progenitor Cells from Subacromial Bursal Tissue
Authors: Wellington Ian J. , Hawthorne Benjamin C. , Messina James C. , LeVasseur Matthew R. , McCarthy Mary Beth , Cote Mark P. , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to determine if arthroscopic shavers can effectively collect and process connective tissue progenitor (CTP) cells from subacromial bursal tissue for utilization in rotator cuff repair augmentation. Subacromial bursal tissue was collected and processed using two arthroscopic shavers, Shaver A and Shaver B, in 10 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Each shaver was used in a random order for the same patient. Tissue samples underwent testing for cellular proliferation, cellular concentration, number of colony-forming units (CFU), live/dead assay, fluorescence-activated cells sorting (FACS) analysis, cytokine analysis, and growth factor analysis. Shaver A produced more CFUs compared to Shaver B (210.3 vs. 125.9; p < 0.001). At 3 weeks, cells collected via Shaver A had greater cellular proliferation (0.35 vs. 0.51; p < 0.001) as well as more viable cells (214,773 vs. 132,356 cells/gram; p < 0.001). Tissue collected with Shaver B had greater amounts of the cytokines MMP-1 (3741 vs. 5500 pg/mL; p < 0.001), MMP-3 (1131 vs. 1871 pg/mL; p < 0.001), and MMP-13 (179 vs. 401 pg/mL; p < 0.001), while those collected with Shaver A had greater vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (47.8 vs. 9.0 pg/mL; p < 0.05). Arthroscopic shavers are capable of harvesting and processing CTP cells from subacromial bursal tissue. Different shavers may produce different yields of viable CTP cells.
Associated Risk Factors with Low Back Pain in White-Collar Workers—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Żywień Urszula , Barczyk-Pawelec Katarzyna , Sipko Tomasz
Published: February 2022

Objective: The purpose of the study was to compare the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of soft tissue and the curvatures of the spine in a sitting position and to estimate associated physical risk factors with low back pain (LBP) in young adults. Subjects: White-collar workers (n= 139), both women (n = 51) and men (n = 88) were separated into a control group (n = 82) and a low-intensity LBP (NRS < 3) (n = 57). Methods: The PPTs were tested utilizing the Wagner algometer. The curvatures of the spine were measured employing the photogrammetric method. In the logistic regression model, the odds ratio (OR) was estimated with ±95% confidence interval (CI) indicating the probability of the reported LBP. Results: The PPTs of soft tissue (OR = 1.1; CI = 1.02–1.19; p < 0.05) and the angle of the thoracolumbar spine in the everyday, habitual sitting position (OR = 1.19; CI = 1.05–1.34; p < 0.05) were associated with low-intensity LBP in female subjects. Additionally, the low intensity LBP were associated with the angles of the torso (OR = 1.14; CI = 1.01–1.29; p < 0.05) and the lumbosacral spine in the corrected sitting position (OR = 1.06; CI = 0.98–1.15; p > 0.05) and BMI (OR = 1.56; CI = 0.84–2.90; p > 0.05) in male subjects. Conclusion: Individual risk factors were associated with the low-intensity LBP only in females utilizing the PPT and the thoracolumbar angle in the habitual sitting position study factors. Men from the LBP group did not effectively correct the lumbosacral angle. Therefore, re-educated, self-corrected posture with specific postural training would be expected to improve proprioception in postural control capacity and result in decreasing pain.
Efficacy and Safety of the Sandwich Method in Patients with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia: Bipolar Transurethral Resection with GreenLight Vaporization
Authors: Lin Tsu-Chen , Chang Po-Chih , Shao I-Hung , Chen Yu , Huang Hsin-Chieh , Hsu Yu-Chao , Hsieh Ming-Li
Published: February 2022

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the nonmalignant enlargement of the transition zone of the prostate gland. While holmium laser enucleation of the prostate and open simple prostatectomy are effective in the management of patients with large prostates, they have some limitations. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of the sandwich method of bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (B-TURP) and GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate (GLPVP) in patients with large prostates. Patients diagnosed with BPH who underwent the sandwich method with B-TURP and GLPVP from 2015 to 2020 were included. Efficacy analyses included the change in the uroflowmetry results in both group A (prostate volume < 80 g) and group B (prostate volume ≥ 80 g), and complication analyses included perioperative complications, early postoperative complications at three months and late postoperative complications at 12 months. The cohort comprised 188 and 44 patients in groups A and B, respectively. The prostate volume of groups A and B were 50.83 ± 14.14 g and 102.03 ± 19.36 g (p < 0.001), respectively. The peak (Qmax) and average (Qavg) flow rates were comparable between the two groups. The only significant difference noted was in the postoperative post-void residual (PVR) urine. Improvement was seen in all the variables including the Qmax, Qavg and PVR urine in each group. No patient experienced perioperative complications. Analysis of the overall one-year complication rate showed no significant difference between the two groups. The sandwich method of B-TURP and GLPVP may be feasible for the management of patients with large prostate.
Anticipating New Treatments for Cystic Fibrosis: A Global Survey of Researchers
Authors: Cabral Bernardo , Terlizzi Vito , Laselva Onofrio , Conte Filho Carlos , Mota Fabio
Published: February 2022

Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening disease that affects at least 100,000 people worldwide. It is caused by a defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene and presently, 360 CFTR-causing mutations have been identified. Since the discovery of the CFTR gene, the expectation of developing treatments that can substantially increase the quality of life or even cure cystic fibrosis patients is growing. Yet, it is still uncertain today which developing treatments will be successful against cystic fibrosis. This study addresses this gap by assessing the opinions of over 524 cystic fibrosis researchers who participated in a global web-based survey. For most respondents, CFTR modulator therapies are the most likely to succeed in treating cystic fibrosis in the next 15 years, especially through the use of CFTR modulator combinations. Most respondents also believe that fixing or replacing the CFTR gene will lead to a cure for cystic fibrosis within 15 years, with CRISPR-Cas9 being the most likely genetic tool for this purpose.
Bridge of Tunneled Cuffed Catheter as a Risk for Future Arteriovenous Fistulae Failure
Authors: Wu Chung-Kuan , Huang Yen-Chun , Lin Chia-Hsun , Chen Mingchih
Published: February 2022

Background: A clinically tunneled cuffed catheter (TCC) for hemodialysis (HD) is often inserted into end-stage renal disease patients, who have an immature or no arteriovenous fistula (AVF), for the performance of HD to relieve uremic syndrome or to solve uncontrolled fluid overload, hyperkalemia, or metabolic acidosis. The catheter is primarily regarded as a bridge until the AVF matures and can be cannulated for HD. However, the effect of the bridge of the TCC on the future patency of AVFs remains elusive. Methods: This nationwide population-based observational study compared the hazards of AVF failure and the time to AVF failure. We enrolled 24,142 adult incident patients on HD, who received HD via AVFs for at least 90 days between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2015. The subjects were divided into two groups, according to the history of TCC, and were followed-up until the failure of the AVF, mortality, or the end of the study. A propensity score-matched analysis based on 1:1 matching of age, sex, and baseline comorbidities was utilized to reduce bias and confounding variables. Results: A Kaplan–Meier survival curve revealed that patients with and without a history of TCC had significantly better AVF survival rates (log-rank test; p < 0.001). A history of TCC was independently associated with a higher risk of new AVF or AVG creation due to AVF failure, after the adjustment of the Charlson comorbidity index score (corresponding adjusted hazard ratios of 2.17 and 1.52; 95% confidence intervals of 1.77–2.67 and 1.15–1.99). For the impact of time on AVF failure, patients with a TCC bridge had a significantly higher incidence of new AVF creation during the first year after the AVF cannulation. Conclusion: A history of a TCC bridge was an independent risk factor for AVF failure and the time of AVF failure was significantly higher during the first year after the fistula cannulation in the TCC bridge group.
Relationship between Viscoelastic Properties of Tissues and Bioimpedance Spectroscopy in Breast-Cancer-Related Lymphedema
Authors: Naczk Alicja , Doś Janusz , Górska-Doś Magdalena , Sibilski Robert , Gramza Piotr , Gajewska Ewa , Naczk Mariusz
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the viscoelastic properties of tissues and breast-cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). After a mastectomy, 46 females were allocated into a lymphedema group (L; n = 15, lymphedema occurred) and a control group (C; n = 31, lack of lymphedema). Bioimpedance spectroscopy was used to test BCRL. The mechanical properties of the tissues in both upper limbs were tested using myotonometry. In group L, tone, stiffness, relaxation time, and creep measured on the biceps brachii of the impaired limb significantly differed from the results on the unimpaired limb. In group C, the differences were not significant. Moreover, both tone and stiffness were inversely correlated with the level of lymphedema (r = −0.72 and r = −0.88, respectively), and both relaxation and creep were significantly related to the level of lymphedema (r = 0.71 and r = 0.59, respectively), when myotonometry was completed on the biceps brachii of the impaired limb in group L. The relationships were not significant in group C. Measurements of viscoelastic properties can provide useful information concerning lymphedema. Our findings suggest that significant correlations between selected mechanical properties of the tissues and BCRL can be used in BCRL detection and treatment.
The Influence of Treadmill Training on the Bioelectrical Activity of the Lower Limb Muscles in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Authors: Mika Anna , Mika Piotr , Oleksy Łukasz , Kulik Anita
Published: February 2022

Aim: Intermittent claudication is the most common symptomatic manifestation of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), presenting as ischemic leg muscle pain and gait dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in bioelectrical activity of the lower limb muscles activity in claudicating patients over a 12-week period of supervised treadmill training and to verify the hypothesis as to which muscles of lower limbs are activated by training treatment—the proximal, as compensatory mechanism, or the distal, which are the most ischemic. Methods: The study comprised 45 patients aged 60–70 years (height 168.8 ± 6.8 cm, weight 78.9 ± 9.2 kg) with PAD and unilateral intermittent claudication (Fontaine stage IIa/IIb), who participated in a 12-week supervised treadmill training program. Surface electromyography (sEMG) of the gastrocnemius lateralis (GaL), gastrocnemius medialis (GaM), tibialis anterior (TA), biceps femoris (BF), rectus femoris (RF) and gluteus medius (GM) muscles in the claudicated leg were continuously measured during the treadmill test. The average mean amplitude and mean amplitude range of the sEMG signal were analyzed. Results: During the treadmill test, after 12 weeks of training, the average mean amplitude of the GM (105 ± 43 vs. 74 ± 38%, p = 0.000008, ES = 0.76), BF (41 ± 22 vs. 33 ± 12%, p = 0.006, ES = 0.45) and GaM (134 ± 50 vs. 114 ± 30%, p = 0.007, ES = 0.48) muscles was significantly lower compared with baseline. The mean amplitude range was significantly decreased after 12 weeks of training in the GM (229 ± 64 vs. 181 ± 62%, p = 0.008, ES = 0.77) and BF (110 ± 69 vs. 84 ± 31%, p = 0.0002, ES = 0.48) muscles. After 12 weeks of training, the mean amplitude range of the TA muscle was significantly higher compared with baseline (104 ± 46 vs. 131 ± 53%, p = 0.001, ES = 0.54), but without significant changes in the average mean amplitude value. The most favorable changes, suggesting the lowest muscle fatigue and the highest walking capacity, were found in patients with the longest walking time. Conclusions: The obtained results may suggest that after 12 weeks of treadmill training, beneficial changes occurred in both the proximal and distal muscles. Therefore, greater foot plantar flexion and stronger push-off as well as greater hip extension may be considered the main mechanisms of observed gait pattern improvement. It may also be suggested that the therapy of gait alterations in patients with PAD should be focused not only on calf muscle pump improvement, but also on proximal hip extensor strengthening.
Outcome of Non-Muscle Invasive Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma Receiving Endoscopic Ablation: An Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting Analysis
Authors: Shen Chih-Yu , Jou Yeong-Chin , Kan Wei-Chih , Tzai Tzong-Shin , Tsai Yuh-Shyan
Published: February 2022

We compared the outcomes in early-stage upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients receiving endoscopic ablation (EA) with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). From 2004 to 2018, cTa/T1N0M0 UTUC patients undergoing EA and RNU were enrolled. For reducing observational bias, propensity scores based on inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were utilized for comparing the oncologic outcomes and renal function changes. In total, 65 of 184 cTa/T1 UTUC patients were analyzed after exclusion of 119 patients with end-stage renal disease, and lack of previous ureteroscopic biopsy. The studied patients included 23 who received EA and 42 RNU, and both groups were well balanced after adjusting with IPTW. The median follow-up period was 43.6 months. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of oncological outcome. The EA group exhibited less estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline one year later (0.0% vs. 20.2%, p < 0.001) and less worsening of chronic kidney status (13.2% vs. 46.5%, p = 0.026). Among patients receiving EA, high-grade tumors exhibited higher subsequent recurrence in the residual urinary tract than did the low-grade ones. (p = 0.037). In summary, endoscopic ablation preserves renal function without compromising oncological outcome in selected UTUC patients. High-grade tumors should be strictly followed up following endoscopic ablation.
The Relationship of Epicardial Adipose Tissue and Cardiovascular Disease in Chronic Kidney Disease and Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Turkmen Kultigin , Ozer Hakan , Kusztal Mariusz
Published: February 2022

Cardiovascular diseases remain the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialysis. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), visceral fat depot of the heart, was found to be associated with coronary artery disease in cardiac and non-cardiac patients. Additionally, EAT has been proposed as a novel cardiovascular risk in the general population and in end-stage renal disease patients. It has also been shown that EAT, more than other subcutaneous adipose tissue deposits, acts as a highly active organ producing several bioactive adipokines, and proinflammatory and proatherogenic cytokines. Therefore, increased visceral adiposity is associated with proinflammatory activity, impaired insulin sensitivity, increased risk of atherosclerosis, and high morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. In the present review, we aimed to demonstrate the role of EAT in the pathophysiological mechanisms of increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients.
Implementation of the Publicly Funded Prenatal Screening Programme in Poland during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Czuba Bartosz , Mlodawski Jakub , Kajdy Anna , Sys Dorota , Cnota Wojciech , Mlodawska Marta , Kwiatkowski Sebastian , Guzik Pawel , Wielgos Miroslaw , Rybak-Krzyszkowska Magda , Fuchs Anna , Swiercz Grzegorz , Borowski Dariusz
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 affected the entire healthcare system in Poland, causing medical personnel to be relocated to other duties and limiting patients’ contacts with healthcare professionals. A large part of the planned diagnostics and treatment was delayed due to lack of equipment and personnel. Against this background, we analysed the implementation of the publicly funded prenatal screening programme (PSP) in Poland compared to the previous year. This is a cross-sectional study. We used nationwide datasets on the implementation of the prenatal testing programme over the period 2019–2020, datasets from the Statistics Poland on birth and the data on the development of the COVID-19 epidemic in Poland. In the year 2020, we observed a 12.41% decrease in woman enrolled to the programme compared to 2019. However, the decrease concerned only women under 35 years of age. With respect to the number of deliveries in the calendar year, the number of patients enrolled in the programme decreased by 3% (31% vs. 34%, p < 0.001). We also observed an increase in estriol measurements per the number of patients included in the programme, and a reduction in the number of PAPP-A tests in the first trimester, which proves an increased share of the triple test in the prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal aberrations. With respect to the number of deliveries, the number of amniocentesis procedures performed under PSP decreased by 0.19% (1.8% vs. 1.99%, p < 0.0001). In 2020, compared to the previous year, the number of patients included in the prenatal testing programme in Poland decreased. In terms of the number of births in Poland, the number of integrated screening tests also decreased, at the expense of increasing the percentage of triple tests. There were also significant reductions in the number of invasive diagnostic tests.
Symptoms of Infarction in Women: Is There a Real Difference Compared to Men? A Systematic Review of the Literature with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cardeillac Martin , Lefebvre François , Baicry Florent , Le Borgne Pierrick , Gil-Jardiné Cédric , Cipolat Lauriane , Peschanski Nicolas , Abensur Vuillaume Laure
Published: February 2022

(1) Context: The management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is based on a rapid diagnosis. The aim of this study was to focus on the ACS symptoms differences according to gender, in order to contribute to the improvement of knowledge regarding the clinical presentation in women. (2) Methods: We searched for relevant literature in two electronic databases, and analyzed the symptom presentation for patients with suspected ACS. Fifteen prospective studies were included, with a total sample size of 10,730. (3) Results: During a suspected ACS, women present more dyspnea, arm pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, palpitations and pain at the shoulder than men, with RR (95%CI) of 1.13 [1.10; 1.17], 1.30 [1.05; 1.59], 1,40 [1.26; 1.56], 1.08 [1.01; 1.16], 1.67 [1.49; 1.86], 1.78 [1.02; 3.13], respectively. They are older by (95%CI) 4.15 [2.28; 6.03] years compared to men. The results are consistent in the analysis of the ACS confirmed subgroup. (4) Conclusions: We have shown that there is a gender-based symptomatic difference and a female presentation for ACS. The “typical” or “atypical” semiology of ACS symptoms should no longer be used.
The Dietary Effects of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) Extract on Growth, Hematological Parameters, Immunity, Antioxidant Status, and Disease Resistance of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) against Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Rashidian Ghasem , Shahin Khalid , Elshopakey Gehad E. , Mahboub Heba H. , Fahim Azin , Elabd Hiam , Prokić Marko D. , Faggio Caterina
Published: February 2022

Medicinal plants are increasingly used in aquaculture owing to their beneficial impacts on the health status of farmed fish. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) extract on growth, immunity, antioxidant parameters, and resistance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) against Aeromonas hydrophila. In addition, in vitro antibacterial activity of the skin mucus of fish fed on nutmeg extract was evaluated against three major fish pathogenic bacteria through the standard disk diffusion method. Fish (17.27 ± 0.11 g) were divided into four groups and fed on experimental diets containing different levels of nutmeg extract, including zero (control), 0.5% (M1), 1% (M2), and 2% (M3) per kg diet. Results showed that nutmeg significantly enhanced growth parameters after a four-week feeding trial. Feed conversion ratio was remarkably reduced with the lowest value reported for the M3 group, whereas weight gain was notably increased in M2 and M3. No significant effect was found on the hematological profile, including mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, and hematocrit, while the highest levels of red blood cells and white blood cells were found in the M3 group. Stress biomarkers, including glucose and cortisol, were the lowest in the M3 group. Serum and skin mucus immunological and antioxidant parameters were significantly higher in M3, followed by M2, where the highest resistance was also observed. In addition, skin mucus samples effectively inhibited Streptococcus iniae, Yersinia ruckeri, and Aeromonas hydrophila. Overall, the present results suggest that dietary nutmeg (20 g/kg diet) could be used as a growth promotor and immunostimulant in common carp.
Significance of Immune Status of SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients in Determining the Efficacy of Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Saratale Ganesh Dattatraya , Shin Han-Seung , Shinde Surendra Krushna , Kim Dae-Young , Saratale Rijuta Ganesh , Kadam Avinash Ashok , Kumar Manu , Bahkali Ali Hassan , Syed Asad , Ghodake Gajanan Sampatrao
Published: February 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is now being investigated for its distinctive patterns in the course of disease development which can be indicated with miscellaneous immune responses in infected individuals. Besides this series of investigations on the pathophysiology of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), significant fundamental immunological and physiological processes are indispensable to address clinical markers of COVID-19 disease and essential to identify or design effective therapeutics. Recent developments in the literature suggest that deficiency of type I interferon (IFN) in serum samples can be used to represent a severe progression of COVID-19 disease and can be used as the basis to develop combined immunotherapeutic strategies. Precise control over inflammatory response is a significant aspect of targeting viral infections. This account presents a brief review of the pathophysiological characteristics of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the understanding of the immune status of infected patients. We further discuss the immune system’s interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and their subsequent involvement of dysfunctional immune responses during the progression of the disease. Finally, we highlight some of the implications of the different approaches applicable in developing promising therapeutic interventions that redirect immunoregulation and viral infection.
Vulnerability of β-Thalassemia Heterozygotes to COVID-19: Results from a Cohort Study
Authors: Sotiriou Sotirios , Samara Athina A. , Lachanas Konstantinos E. , Vamvakopoulou Dimitra , Vamvakopoulos Konstantinos-Odysseas , Vamvakopoulos Nikolaos , Janho Michel B. , Perivoliotis Konstantinos , Donoudis Christos , Daponte Alexandros , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos I. , Boutlas Stylianos
Published: February 2022

Background: The assignment of mortality risk from SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) to vulnerable patient groups is an important step toward containment of the pandemic. Methods: A total of 760 patients with a positive molecular test for SARS-CoV-2 who were unvaccinated against COVID-19 were recruited between 1 January and 30 June 2021. Patients were grouped by age; sex; and common morbidities, such as atrial fibrillation, chronic respiratory disease, coronary disease, diabetes type II, neoplasia, hypertension and β-Thalassemia heterozygosity. As a primary endpoint, we assessed mortality risk from COVID-19, and as secondary endpoints, we considered clinical severity and need for Intense Care Unit (ICU) admission. Results: In multivariate analysis, male sex (p < 0.001, OR = 2.59), increasing age (p < 0.001, OR = 1.049), β-Thalassemia heterozygosity (p = 0.001, OR = 2.41) and chronic respiratory disease (p = 0.018, OR = 1.84) were identified as risk factors associated with mortality due to COVID-19. Moreover, male sex (p < 0.001, OR = 1.98), increasing age (p < 0.001, OR = 1.052) and β-Thalassemia heterozygosity (p = 0.001, OR = 2.59) were associated with clinical severity in logistic regression. Regarding ICU admission, the risk factors were identified as male sex (p = 0.002, OR = 1.99), chronic respiratory disease (p = 0.007, OR = 2.06) and hypertension (p < 0.001, OR = 5.81). Conclusions: An increased mortality risk from COVID-19 was observed for older age, male sex, β-Thalassemia heterozygosity and respiratory disease. Carriers of β-Thalassemia were identified as more vulnerable for severe clinical symptomatology, but there was no increased possibility for ICU admission. Readjustment of these findings to consider impacts of variant strains prevailing during the latest viral outbreak among vulnerable patient groups may offer timely relief from the pandemic.