bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Coping Strategies and Their Relation with Anxiety: Implications for Children Diagnosed with Cancer or Type 1 Diabetes and Their Caregivers
Authors: Spaggiari Silvia , Calignano Giulia , Montanaro Maria , Zaffani Silvana , Cecinati Valerio , Maffeis Claudio , Di Riso Daniela
Published: January 2024

The onset of chronic diseases in childhood represents a stressful event for both young patients and their caregivers. In this context, coping strategies play a fundamental role in dealing with illness-related challenges. Although numerous studies have explored coping strategies employed by parents of children with chronic diseases, there remains a gap in the understanding of children’s coping strategies and their correlation with their and their parents’ anxiety. This study aims to investigate coping strategies and their interaction with anxiety in groups of young patients with cancer, type 1 diabetes (T1D), and their respective caregivers, in comparison to healthy children and caregivers. We recruited a total of 61 control children, 33 with cancer, and 56 with T1D, 7 to 15 years old, along with their mothers. Each participant completed a customized survey and standardized questionnaires. No significant differences emerged in coping strategies used by children among the different groups. However, when examining the association between coping strategy and anxiety, we found specific patterns of interaction between children’s use of coping strategies and their and their mothers’ anxiety levels. This study underscores the importance of an illness-specific approach to gain deeper insights into this topic and develop targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the psychological well-being of these vulnerable populations.
Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Expand Accessibility and Improve Precision in Rehabilitation and Exercise for People with Disabilities
Authors: Willingham T. Bradley , Stowell Julie , Collier George , Backus Deborah
Published: January 2024

Physical rehabilitation and exercise training have emerged as promising solutions for improving health, restoring function, and preserving quality of life in populations that face disparate health challenges related to disability. Despite the immense potential for rehabilitation and exercise to help people with disabilities live longer, healthier, and more independent lives, people with disabilities can experience physical, psychosocial, environmental, and economic barriers that limit their ability to participate in rehabilitation, exercise, and other physical activities. Together, these barriers contribute to health inequities in people with disabilities, by disproportionately limiting their ability to participate in health-promoting physical activities, relative to people without disabilities. Therefore, there is great need for research and innovation focusing on the development of strategies to expand accessibility and promote participation in rehabilitation and exercise programs for people with disabilities. Here, we discuss how cutting-edge technologies related to telecommunications, wearables, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing are providing new opportunities to improve accessibility in rehabilitation and exercise for people with disabilities. In addition, we highlight new frontiers in digital health technology and emerging lines of scientific research that will shape the future of precision care strategies for people with disabilities.
Differences in Urban Development in China from the Perspective of Point of Interest Spatial Co-Occurrence Patterns
Authors: Dong Guangsheng , Li Rui , Li Fa , Liu Zhaohui , Wu Huayi , Xiang Longgang , Yu Wensen , Jiang Jie , Zhang Hongping , Li Fangning
Published: January 2024

An imbalance in urban development in China has become a contradiction. Points of Interest (POIs) serve as representations of the spatial distribution of urban functions. Analyzing POI spatial co-occurrence patterns can reveal the agglomeration patterns of urban functions across cities at different levels, providing insights into imbalances in urban development. Using POI data from 297 cities in China, the Word2vec model was employed to model the POI spatial co-occurrence patterns, allowing for the quantification of fine-granular urban functionality. Subsequently, the cities were clustered into five tiers representing different levels of development. An urban hierarchical disparity index and graph were introduced to examine variations in urban functions across different tiers. A significant correlation between POI spatial co-occurrence patterns and the GDP of cities at different levels was demonstrated. This study revealed a notable polarization trend characterized by the development of top-tier cities and lagging tail-end cities. Top-tier cities exhibit advantages in terms of their commercial environments, such as international banks, companies, and transportation facilities. Conversely, tail-end cities face deficiencies in urban infrastructure. It is crucial to coordinate resource allocation and establish sustainable development strategies that foster mutual support between the top-tier and tail-end cities.
Automated Mass Photometry of Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors from Crude Cell Extracts
Authors: Wagner Christina , Fuchsberger Felix F. , Innthaler Bernd , Pachlinger Robert , Schrenk Irene , Lemmerer Martin , Birner-Gruenberger Ruth
Published: January 2024

Mass photometry (MP) is a fast and simple analysis method for the determination of the proportions of subpopulations in an AAV sample. It is label-free and requires minimal sample volumes between 5–10 µL, which makes it a promising candidate over orthogonal techniques such as analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC), cryo-transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-TEM) or charge-detection mass spectrometry (CDMS). However, these methods are limited in their application to purified samples only. Here we developed a purification step based on single-domain monospecific antibody fragments immobilised on either a poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) resin or on magnetic beads prior to MP analysis that allows the quantification of empty, partially filled, full and overfull AAV vectors in crude cell extracts. This is aimed at identifying potentially promising harvest conditions that yield large numbers of filled AAV vectors during the early stages of the viral vector development platform, e.g., the type of transfection reagent used. Furthermore, we provide a direct comparison of the automated and manual handling of the mass photometer with respect to the quantities of AAV subspecies, molar mass of the capsid and payload, and highlight the differences between the “buffer-free” sample measurement and the “buffer-dilution” mode. In addition, we provide information on which candidates to use for calibration and demonstrate the limitations of the mass photometer with respect to the estimation of the capsid titer.
Classification of MLH1 Missense VUS Using Protein Structure-Based Deep Learning-Ramachandran Plot-Molecular Dynamics Simulations Method
Authors: Tam Benjamin , Qin Zixin , Zhao Bojin , Sinha Siddharth , Lei Chon Lok , Wang San Ming
Published: January 2024

Pathogenic variation in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) gene MLH1 is associated with Lynch syndrome (LS), an autosomal dominant hereditary cancer. Of the 3798 MLH1 germline variants collected in the ClinVar database, 38.7% (1469) were missense variants, of which 81.6% (1199) were classified as Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS) due to the lack of functional evidence. Further determination of the impact of VUS on MLH1 function is important for the VUS carriers to take preventive action. We recently developed a protein structure-based method named “Deep Learning-Ramachandran Plot-Molecular Dynamics Simulation (DL-RP-MDS)” to evaluate the deleteriousness of MLH1 missense VUS. The method extracts protein structural information by using the Ramachandran plot-molecular dynamics simulation (RP-MDS) method, then combines the variation data with an unsupervised learning model composed of auto-encoder and neural network classifier to identify the variants causing significant change in protein structure. In this report, we applied the method to classify 447 MLH1 missense VUS. We predicted 126/447 (28.2%) MLH1 missense VUS were deleterious. Our study demonstrates that DL-RP-MDS is able to classify the missense VUS based solely on their impact on protein structure.
The Influence of Kynurenine Metabolites on Neurodegenerative Pathologies
Authors: Pathak Suhrud , Nadar Rishi , Kim Shannon , Liu Keyi , Govindarajulu Manoj , Cook Preston , Watts Alexander Courtney S. , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan , Moore Timothy
Published: January 2024

As the kynurenine pathway’s links to inflammation, the immune system, and neurological disorders became more apparent, it attracted more and more attention. It is the main pathway through which the liver breaks down Tryptophan and the initial step in the creation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in mammals. Immune system activation and the buildup of potentially neurotoxic substances can result from the dysregulation or overactivation of this pathway. Therefore, it is not shocking that kynurenines have been linked to neurological conditions (Depression, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s Disease, Schizophrenia, and cognitive deficits) in relation to inflammation. Nevertheless, preclinical research has demonstrated that kynurenines are essential components of the behavioral analogs of depression and schizophrenia-like cognitive deficits in addition to mediators associated with neurological pathologies due to their neuromodulatory qualities. Neurodegenerative diseases have been extensively associated with neuroactive metabolites of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan breakdown. In addition to being a necessary amino acid for protein synthesis, Tryptophan is also transformed into the important neurotransmitters tryptamine and serotonin in higher eukaryotes. In this article, a summary of the KP, its function in neurodegeneration, and the approaches being used currently to target the route therapeutically are discussed.
Swine Pudendal Nerve as a Model for Neuromodulation Studies to Restore Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction
Authors: Giannotti Alice , Musco Stefania , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Lazzarini Giulia , Pirone Andrea , Briganti Angela , Verardo Claudio , Bernini Fabio , Del Popolo Giulio , Micera Silvestro
Published: January 2024

Lower urinary tract dysfunction, such as incontinence or urinary retention, is one of the leading consequences of neurological diseases. This significantly impacts the quality of life for those affected, with implications extending not only to humans but also to clinical veterinary care. Having motor and sensory fibers, the pudendal nerve is an optimal candidate for neuromodulation therapies using bidirectional intraneural prostheses, paving the way towards the restoration of a more physiological urination cycle: bladder state can be detected from recorded neural signals, then an electrical current can be injected to the nerve based on the real-time need of the bladder. To develop such prostheses and investigate this novel approach, animal studies are still required since the morphology of the target nerve is fundamental to optimizing the prosthesis design. This study aims to describe the porcine pudendal nerve as a model for neuromodulation studies aiming at restoring lower urinary tract dysfunction. Five male farm pigs were involved in the study. First, a surgical procedure to access the porcine pudendal nerve without muscle resection was developed. Then, an intraneural interface was implanted to confirm the presence of fibers innervating the external urethral sphincter by measuring its electromyographic activity. Finally, the morphophysiology of the porcine pudendal nerve at the level of surgical exposure was described by using histological and immunohistochemical characterization. This analysis confirmed the fasciculate nature of the nerve and the presence of mixed fibers with a spatial and functional organization. These achievements pave the way for further pudendal neuromodulation studies by using a clinically relevant animal model with the potential for translating the findings into clinical applications.
Preoperative Factors for Lymphovascular Invasion in Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Karwacki Jakub , Stodolak Marcel , Nowak Łukasz , Kiełb Paweł , Krajewski Wojciech , Lemiński Artur , Szydełko Tomasz , Małkiewicz Bartosz
Published: January 2024

Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) is one of the most important prognostic factors in prostate cancer (PCa) and is correlated with worse survival rates, biochemical recurrence (BCR), and lymph node metastasis (LNM). The ability to predict LVI preoperatively in PCa may be useful for proposing variations in the diagnosis and management strategies. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify preoperative clinicopathological factors that correlate with LVI in final histopathological specimens in PCa patients. Systematic literature searches of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were performed up to 31 January 2023. A total of thirty-nine studies including 389,918 patients were included, most of which were retrospective and single-center. PSA level, clinical T stage, and biopsy Gleason score were significantly correlated with LVI in PCa specimens. Meta-analyses revealed that these factors were the strongest predictors of LVI in PCa patients. Prostate volume, BMI, and age were not significant predictors of LVI. A multitude of preoperative factors correlate with LVI in final histopathology. Meta-analyses confirmed correlation of LVI in final histopathology with higher preoperative PSA, clinical T stage, and biopsy Gleason score. This study implies advancements in risk stratification and enhanced clinical decision-making, and it underscores the importance of future research dedicated to validation and exploration of contemporary risk factors in PCa.
Cardiometabolic Changes in Sirtuin1-Heterozygous Mice on High-Fat Diet and Melatonin Supplementation
Authors: Favero Gaia , Golic Igor , Arnaboldi Francesca , Cappella Annalisa , Korac Aleksandra , Monsalve Maria , Stacchiotti Alessandra , Rezzani Rita
Published: January 2024

A hypercaloric fatty diet predisposes an individual to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications. Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) belongs to the class III histone deacetylase family and sustains anabolism, mitochondrial biogenesis, and fat distribution. Epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) is involved in inflammation, whilst interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) drives metabolism in obese rodents. Melatonin, a pineal indoleamine, acting as a SIRT1 modulator, may alleviate cardiometabolic damage. In the present study, we morphologically characterized the heart, eWAT, and iBAT in male heterozygous SIRT1+/− mice (HET mice) on a high-fat diet (60%E lard) versus a standard rodent diet (8.5% E fat) and drinking melatonin (10 mg/kg) for 16 weeks. Wild-type (WT) male C57Bl6/J mice were similarly fed for comparison. Cardiomyocyte fibrosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response worsened in HET mice on a high-fat diet vs. other groups. Lipid peroxidation, ER, and mitochondrial stress were assessed by 4 hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE), glucose-regulated protein78 (GRP78), CCAA/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), and mitofusin2 immunostainings. Ultrastructural analysis indicated the prevalence of atypical inter-myofibrillar mitochondria with short, misaligned cristae in HET mice on a lard diet despite melatonin supplementation. Abnormal eWAT adipocytes, crown-like inflammatory structures, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and iBAT whitening characterized HET mice on a hypercaloric fatty diet and were maintained after melatonin supply. All these data suggest that melatonin’s mechanism of action is strictly linked to full SIRT1 expression, which is required for the exhibition of effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Macrofungal Mediated Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Evaluation of Its Antibacterial and Wound-Healing Efficacy
Authors: Vijayakumar Gayathri , Kim Hyung Joo , Jo Jeong Wook , Rangarajulu Senthil Kumaran
Published: January 2024

Recently, the utilization of biological agents in the green synthesis of nanoparticles has been given interest. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized from an aqueous extract of macrofungus (mushroom), namely Phellinus adamantinus, in a dark room using 20 µL of silver nitrate. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were confirmed by analyzing them using a UV-Vis (ultraviolet-visible) spectrophotometer. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were optimized at different pH and temperatures with various dosages of AgNO3 (silver nitrate) and fungal extracts. The synthesized AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) were characterized using TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and EDX (energy-dispersive X-ray) analyses, which confirmed the presence of silver nanoparticles. The size of the nanosilver particles was found to be 50 nm with higher stability. The mycosynthesized AgNPs showed effective antibacterial activity against strains of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was found to be 3.125 μg/mL by MIC assay. The MTT assay (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl] 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) was performed to study cytotoxicity, and reduced cell viability was recorded at 100 μg/mL. Silver-Polygalacturonic acid-Polyvinyl alcohol ((Ag-PGA)-PVA) nanofiber was prepared using the electrospinning method. The in vitro wound scratch assay was demonstrated to study the wound-healing efficacy of the prepared nanofiber. The wound-healing efficacy of the AgNP-incorporated nanofiber was found to be 20% after 24 h. This study will lay a platform to establish a unique route to the development of a novel nanobiomaterial and its application in antibacterial and wound-healing therapy.
Potential of Modulating Aldosterone Signaling and Mineralocorticoid Receptor with microRNAs to Attenuate Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hagiwara Shinji , Gohda Tomohito , Kantharidis Phillip , Okabe Jun , Murakoshi Maki , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: January 2024

Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is a significant complication of diabetes and primary cause of end-stage renal disease globally. The exact mechanisms underlying DKD remain poorly understood, but multiple factors, including the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), play a key role in its progression. Aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid steroid hormone, is one of the key components of RAAS and a potential mediator of renal damage and inflammation in DKD. miRNAs, small noncoding RNA molecules, have attracted interest due to their regulatory roles in numerous biological processes. These processes include aldosterone signaling and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) expression. Numerous miRNAs have been recognized as crucial regulators of aldosterone signaling and MR expression. These miRNAs affect different aspects of the RAAS pathway and subsequent molecular processes, which impact sodium balance, ion transport, and fibrosis regulation. This review investigates the regulatory roles of particular miRNAs in modulating aldosterone signaling and MR activation, focusing on their impact on kidney injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. Understanding the complex interaction between miRNAs and the RAAS could lead to a new strategy to target aldosterone signaling and MR activation using miRNAs. This highlights the potential of miRNA-based interventions for DKD, with the aim of enhancing kidney outcomes in individuals with diabetes.
MicroAnnot: A Dedicated Workflow for Accurate Microsporidian Genome Annotation
Authors: Tournayre Jérémy , Polonais Valérie , Wawrzyniak Ivan , Akossi Reginald Florian , Parisot Nicolas , Lerat Emmanuelle , Delbac Frédéric , Souvignet Pierre , Reichstadt Matthieu , Peyretaillade Eric
Published: January 2024

With nearly 1700 species, Microsporidia represent a group of obligate intracellular eukaryotes with veterinary, economic and medical impacts. To help understand the biological functions of these microorganisms, complete genome sequencing is routinely used. Nevertheless, the proper prediction of their gene catalogue is challenging due to their taxon-specific evolutionary features. As innovative genome annotation strategies are needed to obtain a representative snapshot of the overall lifestyle of these parasites, the MicroAnnot tool, a dedicated workflow for microsporidian sequence annotation using data from curated databases of accurately annotated microsporidian genes, has been developed. Furthermore, specific modules have been implemented to perform small gene (<300 bp) and transposable element identification. Finally, functional annotation was performed using the signature-based InterProScan software. MicroAnnot’s accuracy has been verified by the re-annotation of four microsporidian genomes for which structural annotation had previously been validated. With its comparative approach and transcriptional signal identification method, MicroAnnot provides an accurate prediction of translation initiation sites, an efficient identification of transposable elements, as well as high specificity and sensitivity for microsporidian genes, including those under 300 bp.
Relationships between Circulating Biomarkers and Body Composition Parameters in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Tarabeih Nader , Kalinkovich Alexander , Ashkenazi Shai , Cherny Stacey S. , Shalata Adel , Livshits Gregory
Published: January 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disease involving multiple physiological, biochemical, and metabolic abnormalities. The search for reliable biomarkers may help to better elucidate its pathogenesis and develop new preventive and therapeutic strategies. In the present population-based study, we looked for biomarkers of MetS among obesity- and inflammation-related circulating factors and body composition parameters in 1079 individuals (with age range between 18 and 80) belonging to an ethnically homogeneous population. Plasma levels of soluble markers were measured by using ELISA. Body composition parameters were assessed using bioimpedance analysis (BIA). Statistical analysis, including mixed-effects regression, with MetS as a dependent variable, revealed that the most significant independent variables were mainly adipose tissue-related phenotypes, including fat mass/weight (FM/WT) [OR (95% CI)], 2.77 (2.01–3.81); leptin/adiponectin ratio (L/A ratio), 1.50 (1.23–1.83); growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) levels, 1.32 (1.08–1.62); inflammatory markers, specifically monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR), 2.53 (2.00–3.15), and a few others. Additive Bayesian network modeling suggests that age, sex, MHR, and FM/WT are directly associated with MetS and probably affect its manifestation. Additionally, MetS may be causing the GDF-15 and L/A ratio. Our novel findings suggest the existence of complex, age-related, and possibly hierarchical relationships between MetS and factors associated with obesity.
An Experimental Database for the Analysis of Bursting of a Laminar Separation Bubble
Authors: Dellacasagrande Matteo , Lengani Davide , Simoni Daniele , Ubaldi Marina
Published: January 2024

The bursting phenomenon consists in the switch of a laminar separation bubble from a short to a long configuration. In the former case, reduced effects on profile pressure distribution are typically observed with respect to the attached condition. On the contrary, long bubbles provoke significant variations in the loading coefficient upstream of the separation position, with increased risk of stall of the lifting surfaces. The present work presents an experimental database describing separated boundary layers evolving under different Reynolds numbers, adverse pressure gradients and free-stream turbulence levels. Overall, more than 80 flow conditions were tested concerning short and long bubbles for the characterization of separated flows under turbine-like conditions. Measurements were performed on a flat plate geometry using a fast-response Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) system. For each flow case, two sets of 6000 flow records were acquired with an acquisition frequency equal to 300 and 1000 Hz. Based on existing criteria for the identification of the bursting phenomenon, the flow cases were clustered in terms of short and long bubble states. Additionally, the kind of instability (i.e., convective or absolute) developing into the separated boundary layer was identified based on flow statistics. The present data captures the existing link between the bursting of a laminar separation bubble and the onset of the absolute instability of the separated shear layer, with stationary vortices forming in the dead air region.
Polymorphism of Bis(benzimidazole)bis(thiocyanato-N)cobalt(II) and Its Relevance to Studies of the Chief Color Test for Cocaine
Authors: Burks Raychelle , Noa Francoise M. Amombo , Öhrström Lars
Published: January 2024

Cobalt(II) thiocyanate-based tests are routinely used to screen cocaine products, with the formation of a blue species interpreted as a positive response. Two popular candidates for the origin of the blue color are an ionic coordination compound, frequently referred to as an ion pair, of the general form (HL)2[Co(SCN)4] or the coordination compound [CoL2(SCN)2], where L represents select nitrogenous bases. Given the high number of nitrogenous bases documented to yield false positives for cobalt(II) thiocyanate-based tests, a reasonable hypothesis is that both candidates are possible but their preferential formation depends on the specific nitrogenous bases screened. This hypothesis was tested through the crystallographic and spectroscopic analysis of reaction products of cocaine hydrochloride, lidocaine monohydrate hydrochloride, and benzimidazole exposed to a classic cobalt(II) thiocyanate reagent. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that the blue product isolated from benzimidazole test vessels is a coordination compound, with comparative ultraviolet–visible and Raman spectroscopy validating that blue precipitates collected from cocaine hydrochloride and lidocaine monohydrate hydrochloride reaction containers are ionic coordination compounds. Peaks corresponding to π-π* transitions in UV-vis at around 320 nm (cocaine hydrochloride: 320 nm, lidocaine hydrochloride: 323 nm) shift to a higher wavelength of 332 nm for the coordinated benzimidazole, and the broader d-d transitions at 550–630 nm show both a shift and change in envelope for benzimidazole coordinated with cobalt(II). The compound is a new polymorph of bis(benzimidazole)bis(thiocyanato-N)Cobalt(II), γ-[Co(Hbzim)2(SCN)2] (Hbzim = benzimidazole), and the differences in the intermolecular interactions to the two previous polymorphs were clarified by graph set analysis and Hirshfeld surface analysis. Furthermore, the coordination of aromatic nitrogen bases (such as benzimidazole) with Co(II) and aliphatic bases was compared by analyzing the Cambridge Structural Database, and the aromatic bases were found to have a shorter Co-N bond length compared to the aliphatic bases by around 0.02 Å.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Current Status and Future Indications
Authors: Vinayak Manish , Leone Pier Pasquale , Tanner Richard , Dhulipala Vishal , Camaj Anton , Makhija Rakhee Rajendra Kumar , Hooda Amit , Kini Annapoorna S. , Sharma Samin K. , Khera Sahil
Published: January 2024

In the past two decades, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has transformed the management of aortic stenosis and has become the standard of care regardless of surgical risk levels. Advances in transcatheter valve design across newer generations, improved imaging, greater operator expertise, and technical enhancements have collectively contributed to increased safety and a decline in procedural complications over this timeframe. The application of TAVR has progressively expanded to include younger patients with lower risks, who have longer life expectancies. This article offers an up-to-date review of the latest innovations in transcatheter delivery systems, devices, and its possible future indications.
Management of Juvenile Osteochondral Fractures Utilising Absorbable PLGA Implants
Authors: Nudelman Hermann , Lőrincz Aba , Lamberti Anna Gabriella , Varga Marcell , Kassai Tamás , Józsa Gergő
Published: January 2024

The incidence of articular injury, particularly osteochondral fractures (OCFs), has seen a cinnotable increase in recent years. Regardless of their location, fragments can be overlooked by plain radiographs, which might lead to osteoarthritis in the long run. Diagnostic imaging has a pivotal role in the assessment and classification of the fracture severity, as well as the presence of any associated dislocations. These fractures require surgical intervention for the restoration of joint function and the reduction of long-term complications. This paper aims to present the surgical correction and post-operative treatment of osteochondral fractures with absorbable implants in four children. The following affected areas are discussed: lateral condyle of the femur, patella and radial head. Utilising absorbable implants for the management of OCFs provides numerous advantages, including the elimination of the need for re-anaesthesia and reoperation, reduction of complications and facilitation of early rehabilitation. This approach also minimises the period of hospitalisation and proves effective in pediatric OCF treatment.
Comparison of Loading Dose between Aflibercept and Faricimab for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Hara Chikako , Suzue Masaki , Fujimoto Satoko , Fukushima Yoko , Sayanagi Kaori , Nishida Kentaro , Maruyama Kazuichi , Sato Shigeru , Nishida Kohji
Published: January 2024

Background: Recently, faricimab was approved as the new drug for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). We lack the knowledge to choose between the existing drug and this new drug to use for treatment-naïve nAMD cases. In this study, we compared the functional and morphologic effects in loading dose between patients with treatment-naïve nAMD treated with either intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) or intravitreal faricimab (IVF) injection in a clinical setting. Method: This retrospective study included 30 eyes of 28 patients who started treatment with IVA between June and September 2022 and 30 eyes of 29 patients who were administered IVF between October 2022 and March 2023. All patients received three monthly IVA or IVF. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and the proportion of eyes with residual exudative change at baseline and 1,2, and 3 months after initial treatment were compared between the groups. Results: The mean BCVA significantly improved from pre-treatment after the loading dose in the IVA group (0.46 ± 0.46–0.36 ± 0.37, p = 0.0047) but not in the IVF group (0.46 ± 0.41–0.44 ± 0.45, p = 0.60). The mean CRT significantly improved in both groups. The proportion of eyes with residual exudative change was greater in the IVF group than in the IVA group 2 months after the first treatment (p = 0.026). The analysis of cases that achieved complete resolution of exudative changes after the loading dose showed that the IVA group had a significant improvement in the BCVA, whereas the IVF group did not (p = 0.0047 and 0.20, respectively). Conclusions: Although both IVA and IVF significantly improved CRT, the BCVA improved significantly in the IVA group but not in the IVF group.
A Giant Stent for Giant Cerebral Aneurysms—The Accero®-Rex-Stent
Authors: Kraehling Hermann , Akkurt Burak Han , Elsharkawy Mohamed , Ayad Ahmed , Ergawy Mostafa , Celik Ekin , Chapot René , Schwindt Wolfram , Stracke Christian Paul
Published: January 2024

Objective: Until now, giant intracranial aneurysms (GIAs) have in many cases been a vascular disease that was difficult or impossible to treat, not least due to the lack of availability of a large-format stent. In this multicentre study, we report on the first five clinical applications of the Accero®-Rex-Stents (Acandis, Pforzheim, Germany) in the successful treatment of fusiform cerebral giant aneurysms. Material and Methods: The Accero®-Rex-Stents are self-expanding, braided, fully radiopaque Nitinol stents designed for aneurysm treatment. The stent is available in three different sizes (diameter 7–10 mm, length 30–60 mm) and intended for endovascular implantation in vessels with diameters of 5.5–10 mm. Results: Five patients (all male, age 54.4 ± 8.1 years) with large fusiform aneurysms of the posterior circulation were treated endovascularly using the Accero®-Rex-Stents. There were no technical complications. One major ischemic complication occurred. A significant remodeling and reduction in the size of the stent-covered aneurysms was already seen in the short-term post-interventional course. Conclusions: The Accero®-Rex-Stents were successfully and safely implanted in all five patients with fusiform giant aneurysms, showing technical feasibility with promising initial results and significant aneurysm size reduction in already available follow-up imaging. Key point: With the Accero-Rex-Stents, a new device is available that offers another treatment option for rare cerebral fusiform giant aneurysms with very large parent vessels.
Accuracy of Smartwatch Electrocardiographic Recording in the Acute Coronary Syndrome Setting: Rationale and Design of the ACS WATCH II Study
Authors: Buelga Suárez Mauro , Pascual Izco Marina , García Montalvo Jesús , Alonso Salinas Gonzalo Luis
Published: January 2024

Background: Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), with or without ST-segment elevation, is a major contributor to global mortality and morbidity. Swift diagnosis and treatment are vital for mitigating cardiac damage and improving long-term outcomes. The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) currently serves as the gold standard for diagnosis in ACS with ST-segment elevation and may support the diagnosis in ACS without ST-segment elevation. However, the growing prevalence of smartwatches enables the acquisition of electrocardiographic data without traditional ECG equipment. While smaller studies support smartwatch ECG use, larger-scale validation within ACS remains lacking. The ACS WATCH II study aims to validate smartwatch ECG recordings for ACS. Methods: The primary objective is to validate smartwatch-obtained electrocardiographic data in patients presenting with ACS. Two cohorts of 120 patients each, presenting ACS with and without ST-segment elevation, will be assessed. Smartwatches will capture recordings of leads I, III, and V2 alongside standard ECGs. These leads, chosen due to a 97% ACS diagnosis sensitivity in previous studies, will undergo blind evaluation by two experienced external assessors against conventional ECG. Additionally, a control sample of 60 healthy individuals will be included. Conclusions: ACS WATCH II pioneers large-scale prospective validation of smartwatch ECG recordings in ACS patients. Additionally, it indirectly validates a swift diagnostic approach using three leads (I, III, and V2). This could expedite time-critical ACS diagnoses and simplify access through smartwatch-based diagnosis.
Impacts of Sea Surface Temperature Variability in the Indian Ocean on Drought Conditions over India during ENSO and IOD Events
Authors: Kumar Vaibhav , Chu Hone-Jay , Anand Abhishek
Published: January 2024

The characteristics of terrestrial droughts are closely linked to simultaneous fluctuations in climatic factors, notably influenced by sea surface temperature (SST). This study explores the response of vegetation photosynthesis, indicated by solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF), in India during the summer monsoon period (JJAS) under drought conditions. Notably, statistically significant associations between SST variations in the tropical Indian Ocean and land-based drought responses (precipitation, temperature, soil moisture, and SIF) were observed, which were attributed to atmospheric teleconnections. The positive phases of El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) significantly impacted SST, triggering severe droughts in India in 2009 and 2015. The results revealed that positive SST anomalies weaken monsoon flow during the onset period, reducing moisture transmission to the Indian subcontinent. In 2009, the precipitation anomaly showed severe drought conditions (<−1.5) primarily in the northwest, central northeast, and west-central subregions, respectively, with soil moisture deficit and reduced photosynthetic activity (indicated by negative SIF anomalies) mirroring precipitation anomalies. In 2015, moderate to severe drought conditions affected regions primarily in the west-central and peninsular areas, with corresponding consistency in SIF anomalies and soil moisture deficits. These conditions led to decreased photosynthetic rates and negative SIF anomalies observed across India. The findings provide insights for predicting droughts and understanding ecosystem impacts across India amidst rapidly changing climate conditions in the Indian Ocean region.
Simulating Erosive and Accretive Conditions in the Swash: Applications of a Nonlinear Wave and Morphology Evolution Model
Authors: Samaras Achilleas G. , Karambas Theophanis V.
Published: January 2024

This work presents a new model for surf and swash zone morphology evolution induced by nonlinear waves. Wave transformation in the surf and swash zones is computed by a nonlinear wave model based on the higher order Boussinesq equations for breaking and non-breaking waves. Regarding sediment transport, the model builds on previous research by the authors and incorporates the latest update of a well-founded sediment transport formula. The wave and morphology evolution model is validated against two sets of experiments on beach profile change and is afterwards used to test the performance of a widely-adopted erosion/accretion criterion. The innovation of this work is the validation of a new Boussinesq-type morphology model under both erosive and accretive conditions at the foreshore (accretion is rarely examined in similar studies), which the model reproduces very well without modification of the empirical coefficients of the sediment transport formula used; furthermore, the model confirms the empirical erosion/accretion criterion even for conditions beyond the ones it was developed for and without imposing any model constraints. The presented set of applications highlights model capabilities in simulating swash morphodynamics, as well as its suitability for coastal erosion mitigation and beach restoration design
Effects of Adding Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) among Patients with Rotator Cuff Partial Tear: A Prospective Randomized Comparative Study
Authors: Kuo Shu-Jui , Su Yu-Hsiang , Hsu Shih-Chan , Huang Po-Hua , Hsia Chia-Chun , Liao Chin-Yi , Chen Sung-Hsiung , Wu Re-Wen , Hsu Chieh-Cheng , Lai Yen-Chun , Liu De-Yi , Ku Nien-En , Chen Jui-Feng , Ko Jih-Yang
Published: January 2024

A rotator cuff tear is a prevalent ailment affecting the shoulder joint. The clinical efficacy of combined therapy remains uncertain for partial rotator cuff tears. In this study, we integrated extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, juxtaposed with PRP in isolation. Both cohorts exhibited significant improvements in visual analogue scale (VAS), Constant–Murley score (CMS), degrees of forward flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation, and the sum of range of motion (SROM) over the six-month assessment period. The application of ESWT in conjunction with PRP exhibited notable additional enhancements in both forward flexion (p = 0.033) and abduction (p = 0.015) after one month. Furthermore, a substantial augmentation in the range of shoulder motion (SROM) (p < 0.001) was observed after six months. We employed isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) to analyze the differential plasma protein expression in serum samples procured from the two groups after one month. The concentrations of S100A8 (p = 0.042) and S100A9 (p = 0.034), known to modulate local inflammation, were both lower in the ESWT + PRP cohort. These findings not only underscore the advantages of combined therapy but also illuminate the associated molecular changes.
Tree Species Composition and Diversity in a Secondary Forest along the Sierra Madre Mountain Range in Central Luzon, Philippines: Implications for the Conservation of Endemic, Native, and Threatened Plants
Authors: Llait Christian Ofalla
Published: January 2024

The Sierra Madre Mountain Range (SMMR) is the backbone of the Luzon Islands that contains a high concentration of highly important ecological resources distributed among the 68 protected areas therewith. The present study aimed to assess the composition and diversity of tree species in a secondary forest within the SMMR. A 2.25 km transect with 10 900-m2 plots were established to record tree species with a diameter at breast height of at least 10 cm. The findings revealed 148 individuals of trees from 38 morphospecies, 28 genera, and 20 families. Importance values unveiled the Aurora endemic Macaranga stonei Whitmore as the most important species in terms of the relative values of its abundance, frequency, and dominance. The area was also found to be home to 33 natives, 12 endemics, five IUCN threatened species, and nine Philippine threatened trees. Furthermore, the study site was also found to have considerably high diversity, with a Shannon–Weiner Index value of 3.269 and a relatively even distribution of individuals among species, as supported by the Simpson’s Evenness index value of 0.9453. Significant correlational relationships were also found among species richness, Shannon–Weiner index, and Simpson’s Evenness index, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.881 to 0.934, with all significant at p < 0.001. Lastly, the study was able to produce a distribution map, which is necessary for implementing targeted conservation strategies. These findings provided valuable implications for future research and implementation of targeted and participatory biodiversity conservation and protection strategies.
Acoustic Correlates of Subtypes of Irony in Chilean Spanish
Authors: Bolyanatz Mariška , Jiménez Abril , Silva DePue Isabella
Published: January 2024

Utterances containing verbal irony display prosodic particularities that distinguish them from non-ironic speech. While some prosodic features of irony have been identified in Spanish, previous studies have not accounted for different subtypes, nor have they examined this phenomenon in Chilean Spanish despite the unique intonation patterns in this dialect. This study examined the acoustic and prosodic correlates of five subtypes of irony (jocularity, rhetorical questions, understatements, hyperbole, and sarcasm) spontaneously occurring in the casual speech of sociolinguistic interviews with fifteen Chilean women. We segmented 3907 syllable nuclei from 197 spontaneously occurring instances of irony and compared the syllables within the ironic utterances to those in the pre-ironic utterances, along seven acoustic and prosodic variables: pitch range, duration, F0, F1, F2, H1*–H2*, and HNR. The results showed that the speakers favored jocularity and did not produce sarcasm or understatements, and that jocularity, hyperbole, and rhetorical questions significantly differed from the baseline utterances along a variety of acoustic and prosodic measures. We argue that these cues contributed to marking the ironic utterances as salient, allowing these women to talk about difficult real-life events with a touch of humor. Our study provides additional evidence for the connection between prosody and pragmatics in Chilean Spanish and lays the groundwork for further examination of irony and prosody in this and other Spanish dialects.
The Role of the Ophthalmic Genetics Multidisciplinary Team in the Management of Inherited Retinal Degenerations—A Case-Based Review
Authors: Conway Marcus P. , Stephenson Kirk A. J. , Zhu Julia , Dockery Adrian , Burke Tomas , Turner Jacqueline , Le Francois Thai , O’Byrne James J. , Keegan David J.
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Inherited retinal degenertions are rare conditions which may have a dramatic impact on the daily life of those affected and how they interact with their environment. Coordination of clinical services via an ophthalmic genetics multidisciplinary team (OG-MDT) allows better efficiency of time and resources to reach diagnoses and facilitate patient needs. (2) Methods: This clinical case series was conducted by a retrospective review of patient records for patients enrolled in the Target 5000 programme and managed by the OG-MDT, at the Mater Hospital Dublin, Ireland (n = 865) (3) Results: Herein we describe clinical cases and how the use of the OG-MDT optimizes care for isolated and syndromic IRD pedigrees. (4) Conclusions: this paper demonstrates the benefits of an OG-MDT to patients with IRDs resulting in the holistic resolution of complex and syndromic cases. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this format can be adopted/developed by similar centres around the world, bringing with it the myriad benefits.
Exploring the Influences of BaO Amount on the Wettability and Mechanical Behavior of Vitrified Bond Diamond Composites
Authors: Guo Bingjian , Kuang Haifeng , Liu Xiaopan , Jiang Hongyi , Tu Rong , Yang Meijun , Zhang Song
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the vitrified bond diamond grinding wheel has been applied widely in automotive, aerospace and machine tools of manufacturing industries. However, the main problems of low intensity and poor wettability between the vitrified bond and diamond abrasive limit its further application. In this study, BaO was added into the basic SiO2–B2O3–Al2O3–R2O vitrified bond system, and the impact of BaO on the wettability, thermal and mechanical behavior of vitrified bond and vitrified bond diamond composites was systematically discussed, respectively. The test indicated that when the vitrified bond containing BaO of 6 wt.% was sintered with diamond abrasive at 750 °C, a continuous barium feldspar phase transition layer between diamond abrasive and the bond was generated, which ameliorated the wet property of the bond–diamond abrasive. The contact angle varied from 59° on the blank sample to 35°, and the expansion coefficient changed from 6.24 × 10−6/K to 5.30 × 10−6/K. The Rockwell hardness and flexural strength of the vitrified bond diamond composites achieved the peaks of 117.5 MPa and 113.6 MPa, respectively, which increased by 20.2% and 16.5% compared with that of sample without the addition of BaO.
Editorial: Recent Research of Complex Structure Machining Technology for Hard-to-Machine Materials
Authors: Fan Shukai , Hu Xiaoyun , Li Hansong
Published: January 2024

With the development of machining technology, the application scenarios of national defense and military equipment, civil aviation vehicles, and reciprocating air and space vehicles are becoming more and more complicated [...]