bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Distributional Range Changes of European Heterobasidion Under Future Climate Change
Authors: Shen Shen , Zhang Xueli , Jian Shengqi
Published: October 2024

Heterobasidion, a significant forest pathogen affecting coniferous forests in the Northern Hemisphere, can infect 27 species of coniferous trees, leading to widespread forest mortality. It has already caused considerable damage to both natural and plantation forests in Europe. As essential components of the global ecosystem, forests are increasingly affected by ongoing environmental changes. The ability to accurately predict and effectively respond to pathogen outbreaks across different habitats is becoming increasingly critical. This study employs an optimized MaxEnt model in conjunction with six Global Climate Models (GCMs) to simulate and predict the potentially suitable distributions and changes of three Heterobasidion species in Europe (Heterobasidion abietinum, Heterobasidion annosum sensu stricto, Heterobasidion parviporum) under current conditions and four future climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP245, SSP370, and SSP585) for the period 2081–2100. The objective of this analysis is to assess the potential effects of climate change on the distribution of Heterobasidion species. The results indicate that the distributions of the three Heterobasidion species are influenced by factors such as temperature and precipitation. By 2081–2100, under most climate scenarios, except for the SSP585 scenario, the distribution areas of the three Heterobasidion species show an expansion trend. Notably, Heterobasidion abietinum showed the most significant expansion of its suitable habitat, while the expansion of low-suitability areas for Heterobasidion parviporum and Heterobasidion annosum sensu stricto was more pronounced. Heterobasidion abietinum is projected to shift southward due to factors such as precipitation, while Heterobasidion parviporum and Heterobasidion annosum sensu stricto are expected to migrate northward, influenced by factors such as temperature and host tree species.
Interaction Between PNPLA3 and SIRT5 Genetic Variants in Association with Liver Fibrosis Severity in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Moonlisarn Kamonchanok , Somnark Pornjira , Boonkaew Bootsakorn , Bunchorntavakul Chalermarat , Tangkijvanich Pisit
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the association between polymorphisms in the PNPLA3, TM6SF2, HSD17B13, and SIRT5 genes and the severity of fibrosis and steatosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Methods: Fibrosis and steatosis were assessed by MRE and MRI-PDFF, respectively. The polymorphisms were determined by allelic discrimination in blood samples. Results: 204 patients aged 57.0 ± 13.5 years were included. Sixty-two (30.4%) patients had significant fibrosis (≥F2). Among F2–F4 fibrosis, the PNPLA3 rs738409 GG genotype was significantly higher than the CC + CG genotypes (44.9% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.001). The SIRT5 rs12216101 GG vs. TT + TG genotypes also exhibited a similar trend (64.3% vs. 27.9%, p = 0.012). In multivariate analysis, the PNPLA3 GG genotype (OR = 3.48, 95%CI: 1.50–8.06; p = 0.004) and SIRT5 rs12216101 GG genotype (OR = 5.43, 95%CI: 1.32–22.33; p = 0.019) were independently associated with F2–F4 fibrosis. Additionally, the proportion of patients with F2–F4 fibrosis significantly increased with the number of combined risk genotypes. Among S2–S3 steatosis, the prevalence of HSD17B13 AG + GG genotypes was higher than that of the AA genotype (37.5% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.048) and independently associated with moderate/severe steatosis in multivariate analysis (OR = 2.26, 95%CI: 1.14–4.49; p = 0.020). Conclusions: Our data indicate that the PNPLA3 and SIRT5 polymorphisms were independently and additively linked to significant fibrosis, while the HSD17B13 polymorphism was associated with increased steatosis in Thai populations. These data might emphasize the importance of genetic variants in progressive MASLD.
Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin 9 Inhibitor in Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Patients in a Phase II Prospective Cohort Study—Preliminary Results
Authors: Rosman Ziv , Maor Yasmin , Zohar Iris , Balmor Gingy Ronen , Pravda Miri Schamroth , Goldstein Adam Lee , Tocut Milena , Soroksky Arie
Published: October 2024

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction syndrome caused by a dysregulated host response to infection that has a high mortality rate. Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a serine protease secreted by the liver. Its binding to the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor enhances its degradation, causing an increase in LDL levels in the blood. Objectives: Administering a PCSK9 inhibitor leading to an increase in lipid uptake by the liver may positively affect septic patients due to the increased removal of endotoxins. Methods: This preliminary study aimed to examine the safety of PCSK9 inhibitor use in septic and septic shock patients. We treated five septic patients in the intensive care unit with 300 mg of alirocumab following serious adverse events for 28 days. Results: Four of our patients did not experience any adverse events, and all of them survived. One patient died after discharge from the intensive care unit, and this death was presumably not related to the study drug. The patients rapidly recovered from the inflammatory stage of sepsis. Conclusions: Alirocumab appears safe in severe sepsis and septic shock patients. The outcome data are promising. Only a basic safety profile can be assessed based on this pilot study. Further study with a PCSK-9 inhibitor in septic or septic shock patients is required to further determine its benefit in ICU patients.
Cytokine Storm in COVID-19: Exploring IL-6 Signaling and Cytokine-Microbiome Interactions as Emerging Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Paranga Tudorita Gabriela , Mitu Ivona , Pavel-Tanasa Mariana , Rosu Manuel Florin , Miftode Ionela-Larisa , Constantinescu Daniela , Obreja Maria , Plesca Claudia Elena , Miftode Egidia
Published: October 2024

IL-6 remains a key molecule of the cytokine storms characterizing COVID-19, exerting both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Emerging research underscores the significance of IL-6 trans-signaling over classical signaling pathways, which has shifted the focus of therapeutic strategies. Additionally, the synergistic action of TNF-α and IFN-γ has been found to induce inflammatory cell death through PANoptosis, further amplifying the severity of cytokine storms. Long COVID-19 patients, as well as those with cytokine storms triggered by other conditions, exhibit distinct laboratory profiles, indicating the need for targeted approaches to diagnosis and management. Growing evidence also highlights the gut microbiota’s crucial role in modulating the immune response during COVID-19 by affecting cytokine production, adding further complexity to the disease’s immunological landscape. Targeted intervention strategies should focus on specific cytokine cutoffs, though accurate cytokine quantification remains a clinical challenge. Current treatment strategies are increasingly focused on inhibiting IL-6 trans-signaling, which offers promise for more precise therapeutic approaches to manage hyperinflammatory responses in COVID-19. In light of recent discoveries, this review summarizes key research findings on cytokine storms, particularly their role in COVID-19 and other inflammatory conditions. It explores emerging therapeutic strategies targeting cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, while also addressing open questions, such as the need for better biomarkers to detect and manage cytokine storms. Additionally, the review highlights ongoing challenges in developing targeted treatments that mitigate hyperinflammation without compromising immune function, emphasizing the importance of continued research in this field.
Murine Regulatory CD4+ T Cells Are Increased in Leukemic Spleens and Show High Co-Expression of Co-Regulatory Molecules CD39, CD73, PD1, and TIGIT
Authors: Krüger Julius , Wellbrock Jasmin , Witt Marius , Kruppa Niklas , Muschhammer Jana , Bokemeyer Carsten , Modemann Franziska , Fiedler Walter , Behrmann Lena , Brauneck Franziska
Published: October 2024

Comprehensive characterization of AML-associated T cells during disease progression is essential to identify relevant immune escape mechanisms and new immunotherapeutic approaches. Investigating the processes that lead to an immunosuppressive environment under progression of AML is difficult in humans, because by the time of diagnosis the disease is often progressed far beyond the initial stages. Therefore, to investigate T-cell phenotypes during progression a C57BL/6 mouse model was used. The CD3+ T cells were characterized by performing multiparametric flow analyses at different time points (day 0 = healthy mice, day 7, day 14, and day 21). The study revealed that the spleen is highly infiltrated by reg CD4+ T cells at day 21 of AML progression. These spleen-infiltrating reg CD4+ T cells mainly showed an effector memory differentiation with high expression and co-expression of the checkpoint molecules TIGIT, PD-1, OX40, and the two ectoenzymes CD39 and CD73. Substantial expression of the checkpoint molecules was restricted to the central memory and effector memory compartments. Furthermore, functional evaluation of TIGIT was performed. Blocking TIGIT resulted in a significantly increased lysis of C1498 AML cells in cocultures with AML-primed CD3+ T cells. Together these data confirm that the expression of the checkpoint receptor TIGIT is relevant for dysfunction of AML-associated T cells and, thus, represents a suitable target for future immunotherapeutic approaches.
High Quantum Yields and Biomedical Fluorescent Imaging Applications of Photosensitized Trivalent Lanthanide Ion-Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Tegafaw Tirusew , Zhao Dejun , Liu Ying , Yue Huan , Saidi Abdullah Khamis Ali Al , Baek Ahrum , Kim Jihyun , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: October 2024

In recent years, significant advances in enhancing the quantum yield (QY) of trivalent lanthanide (Ln3+) ion-based nanoparticles have been achieved through photosensitization, using host matrices or capping organic ligands as photosensitizers to absorb incoming photons and transfer energy to the Ln3+ ions. The Ln3+ ion-based nanoparticles possess several excellent fluorescent properties, such as nearly constant transition energies, atomic-like sharp transitions, long emission lifetimes, large Stokes shifts, high photostability, and resistance to photobleaching; these properties make them more promising candidates as next-generation fluorescence probes in the visible region, compared with other traditional materials such as organic dyes and quantum dots. However, their QYs are generally low and thus need to be improved to facilitate and extend their applications. Considerable efforts have been made to improve the QYs of Ln3+ ion-based nanoparticles through photosensitization. These efforts include the doping of Ln3+ ions into host matrices or capping the nanoparticles with organic ligands. Among the Ln3+ ion-based nanoparticles investigated in previous studies, this review focuses on those containing Eu3+, Tb3+, and Dy3+ ions with red, green, and yellow emission colors, respectively. The emission intensities of Eu3+ and Tb3+ ions are stronger than those of other Ln3+ ions; therefore, the majority of the reported studies focused on Eu3+ and Tb3+ ion-based nanoparticles. This review discusses the principles of photosensitization, several examples of photosensitized Ln3+ ion-based nanoparticles, and in vitro and in vivo biomedical fluorescent imaging (FI) applications. This information provides valuable insight into the development of Ln3+ ion-based nanoparticles with high QYs through photosensitization, with future potential applications in biomedical FI.
TGF-β-Induced PAUF Plays a Pivotal Role in the Migration and Invasion of Human Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cell Line Panc-1
Authors: Lee Miso , Ham Hyejun , Lee Jiyeong , Lee Eun Soo , Chung Choon Hee , Kong Deok-Hoon , Park Jeong-Ran , Lee Dong-Keon
Published: October 2024

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma upregulated factor (PAUF) was initially identified as a secreted protein that is substantially expressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PAUF also affects invasiveness, motility, and the proliferation of cells in several types of cancer. Recently, PAUF was reported to play a pivotal role in the TLR4-mediated migration and invasion of PDAC cells. However, the mechanism inducing PAUF expression and its functional role in TGF-β-stimulated PDAC cells have not yet been studied. Thus, we first assessed whether TGF-β regulates PAUF expression in several PDAC cell lines and found a significant increase in PAUF expression in Smad signaling-positive Panc-1 cells treated with TGF-β. We also found that the PAUF promoter region contains a Smad-binding element. TGF-β-treated Panc-1 cells showed an increase in PAUF promoter activity, but this effect was not observed in TGF-β-stimulated Smad4-null BxPC-3 cells. Restoring Smad4 expression increased the PAUF promoter activity and expression in Smad4-overexpressing BxPC-3 cells treated with TGF-β. We further found that PAUF aggravated the TGF-β-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Panc-1 and BxPC-3 cells via the activation of MEK-ERK signaling. These results indicate that TGF-β/Smad signaling-mediated upregulation of PAUF plays a crucial role in EMT progression by activating the TGF-β-mediated MEK-ERK signaling pathway.
Colon Cancer-Derived Exosomal LncRNA-XIST Promotes M2-like Macrophage Polarization by Regulating PDGFRA
Authors: Gao Beibei , Wang Li , Wen Ting , Xie Xiaoge , Rui Xiaoyi , Chen Qiaoyi
Published: October 2024

Colon cancer ranks second in overall cancer-related deaths and poses a serious risk to human life and health. In recent years, exosomes are believed to play an important and significant role in cancer, especially tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs). Previous studies have highlighted the pivotal role of exosomes in tumor development, owing to their ability to mediate communication between tumor cells and macrophages, induce macrophage M2 polarization, and facilitate the progression of tumorigenesis. In this study, we revealed that colon cancer-derived exosomes promoted M2-like macrophage polarization. Moreover, exosome-induced M2-like macrophages, in turn, promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of colon cancer cells. Specifically, CT26- and HCT116-derived exosomes led to the activation of AKT, ERK, and STAT3/6 signaling pathways in THP-1(Mφ) cells. Furthermore, our findings showed that colon cancer-derived exosomes secreted lncXIST to sponge miR-17-5p, which, in turn, promoted the expression of PDGFRA, a common gene found in all three signaling pathways, to facilitate M2-like macrophage polarization. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the binding relationship between lncXIST and miR-17-5p, as well as miR-17-5p and PDGFRA. Collectively, our results highlight the novel role of lncXIST in facilitating macrophage polarization by sponging miR-17-5p and regulating PDGFRA expression.
1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Nitrile Oxides and Nitrilimines to (−)-β-Caryophyllene: Stereoselective Synthesis of Polycyclic Derivatives and Their Biological Testing
Authors: Shybanov Dmitry E. , Kukushkin Maxim E. , Grishin Yuri K. , Roznyatovsky Vitaly A. , Tafeenko Viktor A. , Abo Qoura Louay , Pokrovsky Vadim S. , Yarovaya Olga I. , Belyaevskaya Svetlana V. , Volobueva Alexandrina S. , Esaulkova Iana L. , Zarubaev Vladimir V. , Beloglazkina Elena K.
Published: October 2024

The cycloaddition of nitrile oxides and nitrilimines to one or both of the C=C double bonds of caryophyllene is described. The possibility of introducing five-membered fused and spiro-linked heterocycles into the structure of sesquiterpenes by the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions of nitrile oxides and nitrilimines to caryophyllene was demonstrated. As a result of these reactions, pharmacophore fragments of isoxazoline and pyrazoline are introduced into the structure of caryophyllene, which leads to an increase in the conformational rigidity of the molecule. A complete stereochemical assignment of 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition adducts to caryophyllene was carried out. The study of antiviral and cytotoxic activity for some heterocyclic derivatives synthesized in this work revealed relatively high biological activity of previously little-studied cycloaddition adducts at the exocyclic C=CH2 bond of caryophyllene. The effect of substituents in the synthesized heterocycles on biological activity was demonstrated. Compounds with a good inhibitory effect on the H1N1 influenza virus were revealed. The activity of the compound was demonstrated up to 6 h post infection, and this could be due to slight inhibiting activity against viral neuraminidase, necessary at the stage of progeny virion budding.
Evaluating Bioinformatics Processing of Somatic Variant Detection in cfDNA Using Targeted Sequencing with UMIs
Authors: Lin Yixin , Rasmussen Mads Heilskov , Christensen Mikkel Hovden , Frydendahl Amanda , Maretty Lasse , Andersen Claus Lindbjerg , Besenbacher Søren
Published: October 2024

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a promising cancer biomarker, but accurately detecting tumor mutations in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is challenging due to their low frequency and sequencing errors. Our study benchmarked Mutect2, VarScan2, shearwater, and DREAMS-vc using deep targeted sequencing of cfDNA with Unique Molecular Identifiers (UMIs) from 111 colorectal cancer patients. Performance was assessed at both the mutation level (distinguish tumor variants from errors) and the sample level (detect if an individual has cancer). Additionally, we investigated the effects of various UMI grouping and consensus strategies. The shearwater-AND variant calling method demonstrated the highest precision in detecting tumor-derived mutations from plasma, and reached the highest ROC-AUC of 0.984 for sample classification in tumor-informed cfDNA analyses. DREAMS-vc exhibited the highest ROC-AUC of 0.808 for sample classification in tumor-agnostic studies. We also found that sequencing depth differences in PBMCs could lead to false positives, particularly with VarScan2 and Mutect2, which was addressed by downsampling to equivalent mean depths. Additionally, network-based UMI grouping methods outperformed those using identical UMIs when all reads were retained. Our findings emphasize that the optimal variant caller depends on the study context—whether focused on mutation or sample classification, and whether conducted under tumor-informed or tumor-agnostic conditions.
Numerical Modeling Reveals That Resistant Western Corn Rootworm Are Stronger Fliers than Their Susceptible Conspecifics
Authors: Mikac Katarina M. , Lemic Darija , Pajač Živković Ivana , Dominguez Davila Jose H.
Published: October 2024

The hindwing geometry, aspect ratio, and numerical modeling of susceptible, Bt-Corn- and rotation-resistant western corn rootworm (WCR) wings was investigated. All variants had similar hindwing geometries and aspect ratio (AR: 6–7). These AR values correspond to wings suited to lower altitude flights of a shorter distance. These AR values are characteristic of wings that can carry heavier loads and are capable of precision flying. Numerical modeling using the finite element method (FEM) showed that the Bt-Corn-resistant and rotation-resistant WCR hindwings could potentially resist higher wind speeds with minimal deformations compared to conspecific susceptible WCR. Understanding the physiology and dispersal of resistant WCR enables a better understanding of how these variants spread their alleles across large scale agricultural landscapes. This may have important implications for integrated resistant management strategies for WCR.
Evaluating the Effects of Frequency of Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation on Postural Control in Parkinson’s Disease: A Case-Series Study
Authors: Durmaz Çelik Nazlı , Yaman Kula Aslı , Yiğit Tekkanat Elif Göksu , Kuzu Kumcu Müge , Yanardağ Mehmet , Özkan Serhat
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) is a standard treatment for motor complications in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Its impact on axial symptoms is still not fully understood. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the effect of frequency changes within the therapeutic window on postural control performances of individuals with PD who underwent bilateral STN-DBS. Methods: Postural control was assessed using Computerized Dynamic Posturography with randomized DBS frequency parameters, low (60 Hz), high (130 Hz), and very high (180 Hz), across six sensory organization test (SOT) conditions. Results: Twenty PD participants with a mean age of 61.2 ± 10.1 years were included. There were no differences in equilibrium scores of SOT conditions between 60, 130, and 180 Hz frequencies (p > 0.05), except the SOT6 score (p = 0.003), where 60 Hz showed better equilibrium performance in SOT6, indicating an advantage in postural control when visual cues are disturbed. Discussion: Low-frequency settings (60 Hz) in STN-DBS may benefit those who rely heavily on visual cues while ineffectively using somatosensory and vestibular inputs. Conclusions: A tailored approach to the DBS frequency setting could optimize postural stability and reduce fall risk in these patients. Future research is needed to explore these mechanisms to enhance therapeutic strategies.
Sex-Related Differences in the Pathophysiology, Cardiac Imaging, and Clinical Outcomes of Aortic Stenosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dahou Abdellaziz , Awasthi Vikky , Bkhache Meriem , Djellal Merouane , Yang Xiaofeng , Wang Hong , Bouchareb Rihab
Published: October 2024

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease in developed countries, and its prevalence is higher in older patients. Clinical studies have shown gender disparity in the pathogenesis and the progression of aortic stenosis. This disparity has led to several overwhelming questions regarding its impact on the clinical outcomes and treatment of the disease and the requirement of personalized sex-specific approaches for its management. Indeed, aortic stenosis differs in the pathophysiological response to pressure overload created by the stenosis in women compared to men, which would translate into differences in cardiac remodeling and clinical outcomes. Several studies have focused on understanding the differences regarding disease progression according to biological gender and have found that sex hormones play a crucial role. Sex hormones affect many metabolic processes, thus activating crucial cell signaling and energy metabolism through mitochondrial activity. Yet, there is still a significant gap in knowledge on how biological sex influences the pathophysiology of AS. In this review, we have discussed studies that point to the role of sex-related physiological differences in the molecular pathways and the clinical presentation of the disease and outcome in women and men. We used the format of narrative review to review and summarize the body of literature without being systematic but with taking great care of considering the most impactful data available to date on the topic, especially randomized trials, metanalyses, and prospective studies and registries when available, as well as experimental studies with rigorous methodological approaches regarding the basic mechanisms and pathophysiology of the disease in women compared to men. The opinion of the authors on a particular issue or finding was expressed when appropriate for clarification.
Association Between Race and Comorbid Conditions Among Older Adults with Dementia
Authors: Habibzadeh Parham , Albrecht Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective: Dementia is estimated to affect over 150 million individuals by 2050. Individuals with dementia commonly suffer from other comorbid conditions which can affect quality of life and result in increased health care expenditures. We conducted this study to determine the frequency of comorbid conditions between representative samples of non-Hispanic Black and White US adults aged ≥65 with dementia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on non-Hispanic Black and White adults aged 65 and older with dementia whose data were retrieved from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, 2016–2021, and the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, 2016, 2018, and 2019. Dementia was defined based on medical record abstraction. The exposure was Black vs. White race. The outcome was a sum of 13 comorbid conditions, including obesity, hypertension, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, and coronary artery disease, assessed in older adults with dementia. Results: A total of 1354 non-Hispanic (1175 White and 179 Black) participants were studied. The mean number of comorbid conditions, as well as the prevalence of obesity, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, and coronary artery disease, was significantly (p <  0.01) higher in the Black vs. White study participants. The Black participants were more likely to have more than two comorbid conditions relative to those who were White (odds ratio 2.5; 95% confidence interval 1.6 to 3.7). Conclusions: A higher burden of comorbid conditions was observed among non-Hispanic Blacks compared to non-Hispanic White older adults with dementia. Future studies should examine the quality of life and health care utilization implications of this finding.
Comparison of Standing Side Bending Using Biplanar Stereography and Fulcrum Bending for Flexibility Assessment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Frodl Andreas , Wendling Tanja , Klein Lukas , Wagner Ferdinand C. , Mühlenfeld Nils , Erdle Benjamin , Mayr Moritz , Niemeyer Thomas , Obid Peter
Published: October 2024

Background: The surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is influenced by factors such as skeletal maturity, curve magnitude, progression, and spinal flexibility. The assessment of spinal flexibility is crucial for surgical planning; supine bending radiographs are commonly used but there is no consensus on the optimal technique. Fulcrum bending radiographs (FBRs) have shown better prediction of post-surgery correction compared to supine bending radiographs. New radiological techniques allow a significant reduction in radiation exposure. This study aims to compare spinal flexibility assessment and radiation exposure between FBRs and standing side-bending radiographs (SSRs) using biplanar stereoradiography. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five consecutive AIS patients scheduled for surgery were included in this prospective cohort study. Exclusion criteria were non-idiopathic etiology, age younger than 12 years, and older than 18 years. Pre-surgery FBRs and SSRs were performed, and the Cobb angles were measured. Flexibility and correction rates were calculated. Dose–area products (DAPs) were recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Spearman correlation. Results: The mean pre-surgery Cobb angle of the thoracic curve was 66.3°. The FBR was superior to SSR for assessing flexibility for thoracic curves and provided a better prediction for post-surgery correction. There was no significant difference in lumbar curves between FBR and SSR. The mean DAP for SSRs was 0.81 Gy*cm2 compared to 3.42 Gy*cm2 for FBR, indicating a lower radiation exposure using SSRs. Conclusions: FBRs are superior for flexibility assessment of thoracic curves in AIS and offers a better prediction of post-surgery correction compared to SSRs. However, FBR is associated with a higher radiation exposure.
Burden of Mitral Regurgitation in Spain from 2016–2021: An Analysis by Aetiology and Sex
Authors: Zamorano José Luis , Álvarez-Bartolomé Mercedes , Arzamendi Dabit , Carnero-Alcázar Manuel , Cruz-González Ignacio , Li Chi-Hion Pedro , Pardo-Sanz Ana , Martínez-Pérez Óscar , Cerezales Mónica , Cuervo Jesús , Vernia Matteo , González Paloma , Martí-Sánchez Belén
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Mitral regurgitation (MR) is the second most common valve disease in Europe, and differences between men and women have been described in relation to aetiology or management, which might impact the decision for intervention and patients’ clinical and economic outcomes. Thus, the objective was to analyse the burden of MR in Spain by aetiology and sex, and the management of all patients suffering from MR being admitted to hospital between 2016–2021. Methods: An analysis was carried out with the Ministry of Health’s database, including all patients in public and subsidised hospitals and defining two groups, general MR and those patients undergoing Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge repair (TEER), using a descriptive analysis of patients’ characteristics, use of resources, and outcomes; standardised rates were calculated and observed outcomes were described. Results: Hospital admissions increased from 2016 (n = 32,806) to 2021 (total n = 61,036). In general, the women were older and presented more complications. The majority of patients suffered from degenerative MR (DMR) (n = 183,005, 59.55%), and 61.56% were women, contrary to functional MR (FMR) (n = 124,278), which consisted of 62.15% males. In total, 1,689 TEERs were performed, 23.33% of them in urgent admissions, and mostly in men (65.66%). All groups showed higher rates of intervention for males. Regarding costs, women presented lower mean costs in the general MR groups but those undergoing TEER presented, in all cases, costs higher than men. Conclusions: MR entails a significant burden for patients and the Spanish healthcare system, increasing over the period of study. Differences in aetiologies by sex have been found in patients’ characteristics as well as outcomes. Further studies are needed to optimise patients’ management and their outcomes in relation to sex and aetiology.
A Historical Perspective and Update on Robotic Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Chartrain Amy , Trento Alfredo , Gill George , Emerson Dominic , Cheng Wen , Ramzy Danny , Chikwe Joanna
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Minimally invasive techniques for mitral valve repair have evolved over the past thirty years and include mini-thoracotomies and the robotic platform. This study provides a historical perspective on minimally invasive mitral valve approaches and evaluates long-term outcomes of a large series of robotic mitral valve repairs. Methods: A single-institution, prospectively maintained registry was used to evaluate robotic mitral valve repairs performed by four surgeons from 2005 to 2023. There were 1412 robotic mitral valve repairs performed during this time and stratified by the first 120 and subsequent patients. We evaluated operative outcomes and freedom from more than 2+ mitral regurgitation at five years as well as ten-year survival. Results: Of the 1412 robotic mitral valve repairs performed, 93.6% (n = 1322) were for degenerative disease. Compared to the first 120 patients, the subsequent patients had a significant reduction in cross-clamp time (112 (IQR = 103–130) versus 75 (IQR = 65–88) min) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (153.5 (IQR = 134.5–177.5) versus 116 (IQR = 103–136) min), and all with p < 0.01. The majority of patients had posterior leaflet prolapse (65.6%, n = 926). The repair rate was 98.1%, n = 1385. Survival at ten-year follow-up for the patients included in the first 120 procedures was 91.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 86.4–96.6%) versus 92.8% (95% CI = 91.7–93.9%) for the patients who were in the latter group, p = 0.58. Freedom from >2+ mitral regurgitation at 5 years was 97.0% (95% CI = 95.3–98.7%) for the patients in the first 120 procedures and 92.7% (95% CI = 91.5–93.9%), p = 0.22, for those in the latter group. Conclusions: The robotic platform offers an excellent durable repair for mitral regurgitation in our experience of over 1400 patients. The robotic platform for mitral valve repair offers a teachable and safe approach to mitral valve disease for patients.
Identifying Patients at Increased Risk for Poor Outcomes Among Poor-Grade Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients: The IPOGRO Risk Model
Authors: Arianna Rustici , Antonino Scibilia , Marta Linari , Matteo Zoli , Corrado Zenesini , Beatrice Belotti Laura Maria , Carmelo Sturiale , Alfredo Conti , Raffaele Aspide , Alberto Castioni Carlo , Diego Mazzatenta , Ciro Princiotta , Massimo Dall’Olio , Carlo Bortolotti , Luigi Cirillo
Published: October 2024

Background: A subarachnoid hemorrhage due to an aneurysmal rupture (aSAH) is a serious condition with severe neurological consequences. The World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) classification is a reliable predictor of death and long-term disability in patients with aSAH. Poor-grade neurological conditions on admission in aSAH (PG-aSAH) are often linked to high mortality rates and unfavorable outcomes. However, more than one-third of patients with PG-aSAH may recover and have good functional outcomes if aggressive treatment is provided. We developed a risk model called Identifying POor GRade Outcomes (IPOGRO) to predict 6-month mRS outcomes in PG-aSAH patients as a secondary analysis of a previously published study. Methods: All consecutive patients in poor-grade neurological conditions (WFNS IV-V) admitted to our institute from 2010 to 2020 due to aSAH were considered. Clinical and neuroradiological parameters were employed in the univariable analysis to evaluate the relationship with a 6-month modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Then, a multivariable multinomial regression model was performed to predict 6-month outcomes. Results: 149 patients with PG-aSAH were included. Most patients were surgically treated, with only 33.6% being endovascularly treated. The 6-month mRS score was significantly associated with clinical parameters on admission, such as lowered Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), leukocytosis, hyperglycemia, raised Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), greater Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS II score), increased initial serum Lactic Acid (LA) levels, and the need for Norepinephrine (NE) administration. Neuroradiological parameters on the initial CT scan showed a significant association with a worsening 6-month mRS. The IPOGRO risk model analysis showed an association between a WFNS V on admission and a poor outcome (mRS 4-5), while raised SBP was associated with mortality. Conclusions: Our IPOGRO risk model indicates that PG-aSAH patients with higher SBP at admission had an increased risk of death at 6-month follow-up, whereas patients with WFNS grade V at admission had an increased risk of poor outcome but not mortality.
The Three-Dimensional Investigation of the Radiographic Boundary of Mandibular Full-Arch Distalization in Different Facial Patterns
Authors: Chou Yin-Yu , Chan Chia-Hsuan , Chang Yu-Jen , Lin Shiu-Shiung , Cheng Chen-Feng , Wu Te-Ju
Published: October 2024

Objective: Mandibular full-arch distalization (MFD) is a popular approach, particularly in non-extraction cases. However, we still cannot confirm whether facial patterns affect the amount of limits. This study aimed to determine the anatomical MFD limits in patients with different facial patterns. Study design: Using computed tomography (CT), the shortest distances from the mandibular second molar to the inner cortex of the mandibular lingual surface and from the lower central incisor to the inner cortex of the lingual mandibular symphysis were measured in 60 samples (30 patients). The available distalization space in both regions was compared between groups with different facial patterns. Results: The available space in symphysis was more critical than that in retromolar area: the shortest distances to the inner cortex of the lingual mandibular symphysis at root levels 8 mm apical to the cementoenamel junction of the incisor were 1.28, 1.60, and 3.48 mm in the high-, normal-, and low-angle groups, respectively. Conclusions: Facial patterns affected the MFD capacity, and the thickness of the lingual mandibular symphysis was the most critical anatomic limit encountered. Practitioners should always pay attention to the possible impacts from facial patterns, especially in the treatment of high-angle cases.
Possibilities for Methanogenic and Acetogenic Life in Molecular Clouds
Authors: Feng Lei
Published: October 2024

According to panspermia, life on Earth may have originated from life forms transported through space from elsewhere. These life forms could have passed through molecular clouds, where the process of methanogenesis could have provided enough energy to sustain living organisms. In this study, we calculate the Gibbs free energy released from synthesizing hydrocarbons for methanogenic (acetogenic) life in a molecular cloud, with methane (acetic acid) as the final metabolic product. Our calculations demonstrate that the chemical reactions during methanogenesis can release enough free energy to support living organisms. The methanogenic life may have served as the predecessor of life on Earth, and there is some preliminary evidence from various molecular biology studies to support this idea. Furthermore, we propose a potential distinguishing signal to test our model.
Cobalt and Tungsten Extraction from Diamond Core Drilling Crowns by Aqua Regia Leaching
Authors: Dimitrijević Stevan P. , Dimitrijević Silvana B. , Veljković Filip , Ivanović Aleksandra , Petrović Sanja J. , Maletaškić Jelena , Veličković Suzana
Published: October 2024

In this work, a hydrometallurgical process for the recycling of diamond core drilling crowns by means of aqua regia leaching and subsequent alkali leaching was investigated. This investigation continues a previous study in which nitric acid was used for the acid leaching phase. In the current study, higher tungsten recovery was achieved, reaching 98.2%, which is an improvement of about 1.5%. Another advancement of this study was the high Co recovery (97.21%) and the high purity of the tungsten trioxide obtained, comparable to the previously proposed technological process. Furthermore, a novel laboratory method for testing recycled diamond drilling crowns based on infrared thermography was introduced. Although this innovative approach is not the most accurate, it is fast and cost-effective and provides valuable results before the actual field test is conducted as a final evaluation. In addition, the infrared thermography method offers the advantage of non-destructive testing, ensuring that the diamond drilling crowns can be assessed without compromising their structural integrity. Other instrumental methods used to characterize the products and intermediates were X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS). The analytical method for the concentrations in all working solutions was ICP-AES.
Comparative Analysis of Anodized TiO2 Nanotubes and Hydrothermally Synthesized TiO2 Nanotubes: Morphological, Structural, and Photoelectrochemical Properties
Authors: Sassi Syrine , Bouich Amal , Bessais Brahim , Khezami Lotfi , Soucase Bernabé Mari , Hajjaji Anouar
Published: October 2024

This study presents a comparative analysis of anodization and hydrothermal techniques for synthesizing TiO2 nanotubes directly on titanium foil. It emphasizes its advantages as a substrate due to its superior conductivity and efficient charge transfer. Optimized synthesis conditions enable a thorough evaluation of the resulting nanotubes’ morphology, structure, and optical properties, ultimately assessing their photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performances. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals differences in tube diameter and organization. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows a dominant anatase (101) crystal phase in both methods, with the hydrothermally synthesized nanotubes exhibiting a biphase structure after annealing at 500 °C. UV–Vis and photoluminescence analyses indicate slight variations in band gaps (around 0.02 eV) and recombination rates. The anodized TiO2 nanotubes, exhibiting superior hydrophilicity and order, demonstrate significantly enhanced photocatalytic degradation of a model pollutant, amido black (80 vs. 78%), and achieve a 0.1% higher photoconversion efficiency compared to the hydrothermally synthesized tubes. This study underscores the potential advantages of the anodization method for photocatalytic applications, particularly by demonstrating the efficacy of direct TiO2 nanotube growth on titanium foil for efficient photocatalysis.
Poly(lactide)-Based Materials Modified with Biomolecules: A Review
Authors: Świerczyńska Małgorzata , Kudzin Marcin H. , Chruściel Jerzy J.
Published: October 2024

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is characterized by unique features, e.g., it is environmentally friendly, biocompatible, has good thermomechanical properties, and is readily available and biodegradable. Due to the increasing pollution of the environment, PLA is a promising alternative that can potentially replace petroleum-derived polymers. Different biodegradable polymers have numerous biomedical applications and are used as packaging materials. Because the pure form of PLA is delicate, brittle, and is characterized by a slow degradation rate and a low thermal resistance and crystallization rate, these disadvantages limit the range of applications of this polymer. However, the properties of PLA can be improved by chemical or physical modification, e.g., with biomolecules. The subject of this review is the modification of PLA properties with three classes of biomolecules: polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids. A quite extensive description of the most promising strategies leading to improvement of the bioactivity of PLA, through modification with these biomolecules, is presented in this review. Thus, this article deals mainly with a presentation of the major developments and research results concerning PLA-based materials modified with different biomolecules (described in the world literature during the last decades), with a focus on such methods as blending, copolymerization, or composites fabrication. The biomedical and unique biological applications of PLA-based materials, especially modified with polysaccharides and proteins, are reviewed, taking into account the growing interest and great practical potential of these new biodegradable biomaterials.
Study on the Influence of Walnut Shell Coarse Particles on the Slurry Permeation and the Air Tightness of Filter Cake
Authors: Dong Qi , Liu Tao , Wang Yuan , Liu Sijin , Wen Letian
Published: October 2024

Slurry shields rely on the formation of a compact filter cake to maintain excavation face stability and ensure construction safety. In strata with high permeability, significant slurry loss occurs, making filter cake formation and air tightness maintenance challenging. In this study, light organic walnut shell was selected as an additive coarse particle material for slurry. Slurries incorporating two types of coarse particles, sand and walnut shell, were prepared, and tests on slurry permeation and air tightness of the filter cake were conducted in three different strata. The results indicate that the addition of coarse particles effectively improves filter cake formation and air tightness in high-permeability strata. It is essential to use graded particles in highly permeable strata, with controlled maximum and minimum particle sizes. As the content of coarse particles increases, the air tightness of the filter cake initially increases and then decreases. Notably, the air tightness of filter cakes containing walnut shell is superior to those containing sand. Replacing sand with walnut shell as a slurry plugging material enhances filter cake quality in high-permeability strata. For highly permeable strata with a permeability coefficient greater than 1.0 × 10−3 m/s, an addition of 30 g/L to 40 g/L is recommended.
Neoproterozoic Tectonics of the Arabian-Nubian Shield: Insights from U–Pb Zircon Geochronology, Sr–Nd–Hf Isotopes, and Geochemistry of the Deki Amhare Complex Granitoids, Central Eritrea
Authors: Hu Peng , Zeng Guoping , Zhang Zicheng , Xiang Wenshuai , Jiang Junsheng , Zhao Kai
Published: October 2024

The Deki Amhare complex is located in central Eritrea, within the Arabian–Nubian Shield (ANS). It consists of an inner core of monzogranite porphyry and diorite enclaves (MMEs), surrounded outwardly by granodiorite and quartz diorite. The zircon U–Pb ages, whole-rock geochemistry, and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic compositions of the Deki Amhare complex granitoids were used to discuss the Neoproterozoic tectonics of the ANS. The Late Tonian granodiorite and quartz diorite are metaluminous and calc-alkaline to slightly high-K calc-alkaline I-type plutons, with ages of 811.2 ± 4.8 Ma and 811.6 ± 5.7 Ma, respectively. They exhibit positive εHf(t) (7.6–9.5) and εNd(t) (3.9–4.7) values and relatively low (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios (0.70374–0.70463), indicating that they derived from the partial melting of a metasomatized mantle wedge during intra-oceanic subduction. The Ediacaran monzogranite porphyry and MMEs are subalkaline to alkaline A2-type granitoids with ages of 620.0 ± 4.3 Ma and 614.8 ± 3.9 Ma. These display positive εHf(t) (5.3–8.7) and εNd(t) (4.2–4.7) values, as well as low (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios (0.70310–0.70480), implying that they formed through crust–mantle magma mixing related to post-collisional slab break-off. Based on these data, three stages of regional tectonic evolution can be described: (1) from ~1200 Ma to ~875 Ma, the mafic oceanic crust was derived from depleted mantle during the opening of the Mozambique Ocean; (2) from ~875 Ma to ~630 Ma, intra-oceanic subduction and arc formation occurred with the development of I-type batholiths; and (3) from ~630 Ma to ~600 Ma, crustal and lithospheric reworking took place post-collision, leading to the formation of A2-type granitoids.
Pressurized Liquid Extraction of Antioxidant and α-Amylase-Inhibitory Compounds from Red Seaweed Using Water–Ethanol Mixtures
Authors: Huamán-Castilla Nils Leander , Allcca-Alca Erik Edwin , Hervas Nina Frank , León-Calvo Nilton Cesar , Zirena Vilca Franz , Vilcanqui Chura Yesica Luz
Published: October 2024

Red seaweeds from the coastal shores of Ilo (Peru) are a natural source of high-value compounds beneficial to health due to their high antioxidant capacity. Thus, this work evaluated the effect of water–ethanol mixtures (0, 15, and 30%; v/v) at high temperatures (90, 120, and 150 °C) on the polyphenol content, antioxidant capacity, and polyphenols profile of red seaweed (Chondracanthus chamissoi) during a pressurized liquid extraction process, whose parameters were set at 10 atm, with a single cycle of extraction and a volume of 150%. An increase in temperature and ethanol had a positive effect on antioxidant compounds. Thus, the best processing conditions were established at 150 °C and 30% ethanol, allowing for the extraction of a high polyphenol content (2.04 mg GAE/g dw) and antioxidant capacity (IC50: 7.46 mg/mL, ORAC: 148.98 μmol TE/g dw). High ethanol concentrations (30%) effectively recovered phenolic acids, flavonols, and phlorotannins for the polyphenols profile. However, the use of pure water was more effective in recovering flavonols. Interestingly, using pure water as an extraction solvent at high temperatures allowed for a more significant inhibition of the α-amylase enzyme than water–ethanol mixtures under the same conditions. Finally, the results can be utilized for future industrial scaling and the potential utilization of extracts in developing diabetes treatments.