bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vibrational Spectroscopy in Assessment of Early Osteoarthritis—A Narrative Review
Authors: Yu Chen , Zhao Bing , Li Yan , Zang Hengchang , Li Lian
Published: May 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease, and there is currently no effective medicine to cure it. Early prevention and treatment can effectively reduce the pain of OA patients and save costs. Therefore, it is necessary to diagnose OA at an early stage. There are various diagnostic methods for OA, but the methods applied to early diagnosis are limited. Ordinary optical diagnosis is confined to the surface, while laboratory tests, such as rheumatoid factor inspection and physical arthritis checks, are too trivial or time-consuming. Evidently, there is an urgent need to develop a rapid nondestructive detection method for the early diagnosis of OA. Vibrational spectroscopy is a rapid and nondestructive technique that has attracted much attention. In this review, near-infrared (NIR), infrared, (IR) and Raman spectroscopy were introduced to show their potential in early OA diagnosis. The basic principles were discussed first, and then the research progress to date was discussed, as well as its limitations and the direction of development. Finally, all methods were compared, and vibrational spectroscopy was demonstrated that it could be used as a promising tool for early OA diagnosis. This review provides theoretical support for the application and development of vibrational spectroscopy technology in OA diagnosis, providing a new strategy for the nondestructive and rapid diagnosis of arthritis and promoting the development and clinical application of a component-based molecular spectrum detection technology.
Oral Bone Tissue Regeneration: Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Secretome, and Biomaterials
Authors: Gugliandolo Agnese , Fonticoli Luigia , Trubiani Oriana , Rajan Thangavelu S. , Marconi Guya D. , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela , Pizzicannella Jacopo , Diomede Francesca
Published: May 2021

In the last few decades, tissue engineering has become one of the most studied medical fields. Even if bone shows self-remodeling properties, in some cases, due to injuries or anomalies, bone regeneration can be required. In particular, oral bone regeneration is needed in the dentistry field, where the functional restoration of tissues near the tooth represents a limit for many dental implants. In this context, the application of biomaterials and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) appears promising for bone regeneration. This review focused on in vivo studies that evaluated bone regeneration using biomaterials with MSCs. Different biocompatible biomaterials were enriched with MSCs from different sources. These constructs showed an enhanced bone regenerative power in in vivo models. However, we discussed also a future perspective in tissue engineering using the MSC secretome, namely the conditioned medium and extracellular vesicles. This new approach has already shown promising results for bone tissue regeneration in experimental models.
UV Effect on Human Anterior Lens Capsule Macro-Molecular Composition Studied by Synchrotron-Based FTIR Micro-Spectroscopy
Authors: Lumi Xhevat , Dučić Tanja , Kreuzer Martin , Hawlina Marko , Andjelic Sofija
Published: May 2021

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is an important risk factor in cataractogenesis. Lens epithelial cells (LECs), which are a highly metabolically active part of the lens, play an important role in UV-induced cataractogenesis. The purpose of this study was to characterize cell compounds such as nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids in human UV C-irradiated anterior lens capsules (LCs) with LECs, as well as to compare them with the control, non-irradiated LCs of patients without cataract, by using synchrotron radiation-based Fourier transform infrared (SR-FTIR) micro-spectroscopy. In order to understand the effect of the UV C on the LC bio-macromolecules in a context of cataractogenesis, we used the SR-FTIR micro-spectroscopy setup installed on the beamline MIRAS at the Spanish synchrotron light source ALBA, where measurements were set to achieve a single-cell resolution with high spectral stability and high photon flux. UV C irradiation of LCs resulted in a significant effect on protein conformation with protein formation of intramolecular parallel β-sheet structure, lower phosphate and carboxyl bands in fatty acids and amino acids, and oxidative stress markers with significant increase of lipid peroxidation and diminishment of the asymmetric CH3 band.
Insulin-Like Peptide Receptor-Mediated Signaling Pathways Orchestrate Regulation of Growth in the Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas), as Revealed by Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Li Yongjing , Fu Huiru , Zhang Fuqiang , Ren Liting , Tian Jing , Li Qi , Liu Shikai
Published: May 2021

The involvement of insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) pathways in the growth regulation of marine invertebrates remains largely unexplored. In this study, we used a fast-growing Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) variety “Haida No.1” as the material with which to unravel the role of IIS systems in growth regulation in oysters. Systematic bioinformatics analyses allowed us to identify major components of the IIS signaling pathway and insulin-like peptide receptor (ILPR)-mediated signaling pathways, including PI3K-AKT, RAS-MAPK, and TOR, in C. gigas. The expression levels of the major genes in IIS and its downstream signaling pathways were significantly higher in “Haida No.1” than in wild oysters, suggesting their involvement in the growth regulation of C. gigas. The expression profiles of IIS and its downstream signaling pathway genes were significantly altered by nutrient abundance and culture temperature. These results suggest that the IIS signaling pathway coupled with the ILPR-mediated signaling pathways orchestrate the regulation of energy metabolism to control growth in Pacific oysters.
Circulating Soluble ACE2 and Upstream microRNA Expressions in Serum of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Elemam Noha Mousaad , Hasswan Hind , Aljaibeji Hayat , Sulaiman Nabil
Published: May 2021

The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was associated with multiple organ failure and comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Risk factors, such as age, gender, and obesity, were associated with COVID-19 infection. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is known to use several host receptors for viral entry, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) in the lung and other organs. However, ACE2 could be shed from the surface to be soluble ACE2 (sACE2) in the circulation. The epigenetic factors affecting ACE2 expression include a type of small non-coding RNAs called microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study, we aimed at exploring the status of the sACE2 as well as serum levels of several upstream novel miRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers that might have a potential role in T2DM patients. Serum samples were collected from 50 T2DM patients and 50 healthy controls, and sACE2 levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Also, RNA was extracted, and TaqMan miRNA reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to measure serum miRNA levels. Our results revealed that sACE2 is decreased in the T2DM patients and is affected by age, gender, and obesity level. Additionally, 4 miRNAs, which are revealed by in silico analysis to be potentially upstream of ACE2 were detectable in the serum. Among them, miR-421 level was found to be decreased in the serum of diabetic patients, regardless of the presence or absence of diabetic complications, as well as being differential in various body mass index (BMI) groups. The other 3 miRNAs (miR-3909, miR-212-5p, and miR-4677-3p) showed associations with multiple factors including age, gender, BMI, and serum markers, in addition to being correlated to each other. In conclusion, our study reveals a decline in the circulating serum levels of sACE2 in T2DM patients and identified 4 novel miRNAs that were associated with T2DM, which are influenced by different clinical and demographic factors.
Nanomaterial Shape Influence on Cell Behavior
Authors: Kladko Daniil V. , Falchevskaya Aleksandra S. , Serov Nikita S. , Prilepskii Artur Y.
Published: May 2021

Nanomaterials are proven to affect the biological activity of mammalian and microbial cells profoundly. Despite this fact, only surface chemistry, charge, and area are often linked to these phenomena. Moreover, most attention in this field is directed exclusively at nanomaterial cytotoxicity. At the same time, there is a large body of studies showing the influence of nanomaterials on cellular metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, reprogramming, gene transfer, and many other processes. Furthermore, it has been revealed that in all these cases, the shape of the nanomaterial plays a crucial role. In this paper, the mechanisms of nanomaterials shape control, approaches toward its synthesis, and the influence of nanomaterial shape on various biological activities of mammalian and microbial cells, such as proliferation, differentiation, and metabolism, as well as the prospects of this emerging field, are reviewed.
Resveratrol Butyrate Esters Inhibit BPA-Induced Liver Damage in Male Offspring Rats by Modulating Antioxidant Capacity and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Liao Jin-Xian , Chen Yu-Wei , Shih Ming-Kuei , Tain You-Lin , Yeh Yao-Tsung , Chiu Min-Hsi , Chang Sam K. C. , Hou Chih-Yao
Published: May 2021

Resveratrol can affect the physiology or biochemistry of offspring in the maternal–fetal animal model. However, it exhibits low bioavailability in humans and animals. Fifteen-week SD pregnant female rats were orally administered bisphenol A (BPA) and/or resveratrol butyrate ester (RBE), and the male offspring rats (n = 4–8 per group) were evaluated. The results show that RBE treatment (BPA + R30) compared with the BPA group can reduce the damage caused by BPA (p < 0.05). RBE enhanced the expression of selected genes and induced extramedullary hematopoiesis and mononuclear cell infiltration. RBE increased the abundance of S24-7 and Adlercreutzia in the intestines of the male offspring rats, as well as the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces. RBE also increased the antioxidant capacity of the liver by inducing Nrf2, promoting the expression of HO-1, SOD, and CAT. It also increased the concentration of intestinal SCFAs, enhancing the barrier formed by intestinal cells, thereby preventing BPA-induced metabolic disruption in the male offspring rats, and reduced liver inflammation. This study identified a potential mechanism underlying the protective effects of RBE against the liver damage caused by BPA exposure during the peri-pregnancy period, and the influence of the gut microbiota on the gut–liver axis in the offspring.
Pairing Binge Drinking and a High-Fat Diet in Adolescence Modulates the Inflammatory Effects of Subsequent Alcohol Consumption in Mice
Authors: González-Portilla Macarena , Montagud-Romero Sandra , Navarrete Francisco , Gasparyan Ani , Manzanares Jorge , Miñarro José , Rodríguez-Arias Marta
Published: May 2021

Alcohol binge drinking (BD) and poor nutritional habits are two frequent behaviors among many adolescents that alter gut microbiota in a pro-inflammatory direction. Dysbiotic changes in the gut microbiome are observed after alcohol and high-fat diet (HFD) consumption, even before obesity onset. In this study, we investigate the neuroinflammatory response of adolescent BD when combined with a continuous or intermittent HFD and its effects on adult ethanol consumption by using a self-administration (SA) paradigm in mice. The inflammatory biomarkers IL-6 and CX3CL1 were measured in the striatum 24 h after BD, 3 weeks later and after the ethanol (EtOH) SA. Adolescent BD increased alcohol consumption in the oral SA and caused a greater motivation to seek the substance. Likewise, mice with intermittent access to HFD exhibited higher EtOH consumption, while the opposite effect was found in mice with continuous HFD access. Biochemical analyses showed that after BD and three weeks later, striatal levels of IL-6 and CX3CL1 were increased. In addition, in saline-treated mice, CX3CL1 was increased after continuous access to HFD. After oral SA procedure, striatal IL-6 was increased only in animals exposed to BD and HFD. In addition, striatal CX3CL1 levels were increased in all BD- and HFD-exposed groups. Overall, our findings show that adolescent BD and intermittent HFD increase adult alcohol intake and point to neuroinflammation as an important mechanism modulating this interaction.
Understanding LAG-3 Signaling
Authors: Chocarro Luisa , Blanco Ester , Zuazo Miren , Arasanz Hugo , Bocanegra Ana , Fernández-Rubio Leticia , Morente Pilar , Fernández-Hinojal Gonzalo , Echaide Miriam , Garnica Maider , Ramos Pablo , Vera Ruth , Kochan Grazyna , Escors David
Published: May 2021

Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3) is a cell surface inhibitory receptor with multiple biological activities over T cell activation and effector functions. LAG-3 plays a regulatory role in immunity and emerged some time ago as an inhibitory immune checkpoint molecule comparable to PD-1 and CTLA-4 and a potential target for enhancing anti-cancer immune responses. LAG-3 is the third inhibitory receptor to be exploited in human anti-cancer immunotherapies, and it is considered a potential next-generation cancer immunotherapy target in human therapy, right next to PD-1 and CTLA-4. Unlike PD-1 and CTLA-4, the exact mechanisms of action of LAG-3 and its relationship with other immune checkpoint molecules remain poorly understood. This is partly caused by the presence of non-conventional signaling motifs in its intracellular domain that are different from other conventional immunoregulatory signaling motifs but with similar inhibitory activities. Here we summarize the current understanding of LAG-3 signaling and its role in LAG-3 functions, from its mechanisms of action to clinical applications.
Digital Learning Support for Makers: Integrating Technical Development and Educational Design
Authors: Kaar Claudia , Stary Christian
Published: May 2021

Makerspaces have gained momentum, not only due to novel manufacturing technologies but also the need for qualified workforce in production industries. Capacity building should not follow ad hoc procedures or arbitrary project designs to qualify for digital production, but rather should still leave room for creativity. As such, the quest has arisen for structured while empowering guidance of additive manufacturing. This can be of benefit for timely education, not only for qualifying existing workforce in production industries but also to attract students in production-related domains. In this paper, we aim to develop an integrated understanding of technical development and capacity-building support activities. We exemplify the proposed design science approach with a regional makerspace. This provides us with the user-centered evaluation of structuring additive manufacturing along an individualized education scheme. Thereby, additive manufacturing capacity building starts with individual goal setting and structuring requirements for an envisioned solution, which becomes part of a learning contract of a specific project. Learning steps are framed by design science and its stages and cycles, since artifacts can be of various kinds, stemming either from construction, modeling, material selection, or manufacturing. The evaluation study revealed essential benefits in terms of structured planning and individualization of capacity-building processes.
A Survey on Old and New Approximations to the Function ϕ(x) Involved in LDPC Codes Density Evolution Analysis Using a Gaussian Approximation
Authors: Vatta Francesca , Soranzo Alessandro , Comisso Massimiliano , Buttazzoni Giulia , Babich Fulvio
Published: May 2021

Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes are currently being deeply analyzed through algorithms that require the capability of addressing their iterative decoding convergence performance. Since it has been observed that the probability distribution function of the decoder’s log-likelihood ratio messages is roughly Gaussian, a multiplicity of moderate entanglement strategies to this analysis has been suggested. The first of them was proposed in Chung et al.’s 2001 paper, where the recurrent sequence, characterizing the passage of messages between variable and check nodes, concerns the function ϕ(x), therein specified, and its inverse. In this paper, we review this old approximation to the function ϕ(x), one variant on it obtained in the same period (proposed in Ha et al.’s 2004 paper), and some new ones, recently published in two 2019 papers by Vatta et al. The objective of this review is to analyze the differences among them and their characteristics in terms of accuracy and computational complexity. In particular, the explicitly invertible, not piecewise defined approximation of the function ϕ(x), published in the second of the two abovementioned 2019 papers, is shown to have less relative error in any x than most of the other approximations. Moreover, its use conducts to an important complexity reduction, and allows better Gaussian approximated thresholds to be obtained.
Combined Effect of Entomopathogens against Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae): Laboratory, Greenhouse and Field Trials
Authors: Gulzar Sehrish , Wakil Waqas , Shapiro-Ilan David I.
Published: May 2021

Onion thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is one of the most damaging insect pests of onions, Allium cepa L., which is an economically important agricultural crop cultivated worldwide. In this study, the combined application of entomopathogenic nematodes with entomopathogenic fungi against different soil dwelling stages of T. tabaci was evaluated. The nematodes included Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (VS strain) and Steinernema feltiae (SN strain), and fungi included Beauveria bassiana (WG-11) and Metarhizium anisopliae (WG-02); all four paired combinations (nematode + fungus) were included. In a small cup bioassay, only the combined application of H. bacteriophora and B. bassiana (WG-11) caused a synergistic interaction against pre-pupae, while all other combinations were compatible in an additive manner against pupae and late second instars. In a larger arena, a potted soil bioassay, again, combined applications of both pathogens produced greater mortality compared to single applications of each pathogen; all the combinations exhibited additive interactions, with the highest mortality observed in pre-pupae, followed by pupae and late second instar larvae using H. bacteriophora and B. bassiana (WG-11). Additionally, in the potted plant bioassay, lower adult emergence was observed from treated groups compared to control groups. Under field conditions, lower numbers of adults and larvae were found in treated groups relative to controls. Overall, the pre-pupal stage was more susceptible to the pathogen treatments, followed by pupae and late second instar larvae, and also combined applications of both pathogens suppressed the adult population. Combined application of entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi could be used for integrated pest management (IPM) of T. tabaci in onion production systems.
Characterization of Cold Tolerance of Immature Stages of Small Hive Beetle (SHB) Aethina tumida Murray (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Authors: Noor-ul-Ane Muhammad , Jung Chuleui
Published: May 2021

The small hive beetle (SHB) Aethina tumida Murray, (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) is now a global invasive pest of honey bees, but its cold tolerance potential has not been yet explored. Therefore, we measured the supercooling point (SCP) of different stages of SHBs and also the impact of acclimation on their SCPs and survival as a measure for cold tolerance. Combinations of different temperatures (0, 3, 5, 7, and 10 ∘C) for different hours (1, 3, 5, 7, 12, 24, 35, and 48 h) were used to assess SHB survival. The supercooling points occurred at lower temperatures (−19.4 ∘C) in wandering larvae than in the other stages (pupae: −12.5 ∘C, and feeding larvae: −10.7 ∘C). A lethal temperature (LT50) of feeding larvae was achieved earlier at 4.9 ∘C after 7 h exposure than the wandering larvae (3.7 ∘C at 48 h) and pupae (5.6 ∘C at 48 h). The sum of injurious temperature (SIT) is the most suitable estimation to describe cold resistance of the SHB immatures. The wandering larvae were the most cold tolerant, followed by pupae and feeding larvae based on SIT values of −286.8, −153.7 and −28.7 DD, respectively, and also showed more phenotypic plasticity after acclimation than feeding larvae and slightly more than pupae. Our results show that all stages, i.e., feeding larvae, wandering larvae and pupae, are chill susceptible. However, these stages, especially wandering larvae and pupae, showed the capacity to acclimate to cold temperatures, which may help them to survive in winter for the continuity of the SHB population, especially in a scenario of climate change.
Susceptibility of South Texas Aedes aegypti to Pyriproxyfen
Authors: Juarez Jose G. , Garcia-Luna Selene M. , Roundy Christopher M. , Branca Alyssa , Banfield Michael G. , Hamer Gabriel L.
Published: May 2021

An integral part to integrated mosquito management is to ensure chemical products used for area-wide control are effective against a susceptible population of mosquitoes. Prior to conducting an intervention trial using an insect growth regulator, pyriproxyfen, in South Texas to control Aedes aegypti, we conducted a larval bioassay to evaluate baseline levels of susceptibility. We used seven serially-diluted doses ranging from 2.5 ppb to 6.3 × 10−4 ppb. We observed 100% inhibition emergence (IE) at even the lowest dose of 6.3 × 10−4 ppb in our susceptible reference colony of Ae. aegypti Liverpool. In our field strain of Ae. aegypti (F5 colonized from South Texas) we observed 79.8% IE at 6.3 × 10−4 ppb, 17.7% IE at 1.25 × 10−3 ppb, 98.7% IE at 1.25 × 10−2 ppb, and 100% emergence inhibition for the remainder of the doses. Given that commercial pyriproxyfen products are labeled for doses ranging to 50 ppb, we conclude that the field population sampled by this study are susceptible to this insect growth regulator.
The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training Periods on Morning Serum Testosterone and Cortisol Levels and Physical Fitness in Men Aged 35–40 Years
Authors: Ambroży Tadeusz , Rydzik Łukasz , Obmiński Zbigniew , Błach Wiesław , Serafin Natalia , Błach Blanka , Jaszczur-Nowicki Jarosław , Ozimek Mariusz
Published: May 2021

Background: Intensive physical activity largely modulates resting concentrations of blood cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) and their molar ratio, which is defined as the anabolic–catabolic index and expressed as T/C × 102. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of the author’s high-intensity training program on T, C, T/C × 102, and selected physical fitness indices in men between 35 and 40 years of age. Methods: The experiment was conducted on a group of 30 healthy men, divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group followed a high-intensity 8-week training program, which included three sessions per week, each of them lasting 1 h and consisting of intensive-interval exercises followed by strength circuit exercises. The controls did not change their previous recreational physical activity. T, C, and T/C × 102 were measured before and after the experiment for all participants. Physical performance was examined using a standardized laboratory exercise test to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Results: There were statistically significant increases in T (by 36.7%) and T/C × 102 (by 59%), while C somewhat dropped (by 12%) in the experimental group. No changes in the hormonal indices were found in the control group. After completing the experimental training, there were no statistically significant changes in aerobic capacity, but it improved muscle strength in the men studied. Conclusions: High-intensity interval training, continued over an 8-week period, modulates (significantly and positively) the balance between testosterone and cortisol levels and improves physical capacity in men aged 35–40 years.
CD133 Expression in the Nucleus Is Associated with Endometrial Carcinoma Staging and Tumor Angioinvasion
Authors: Pietrus Milosz , Pitynski Kazimierz , Waligora Marcin , Milian-Ciesielska Katarzyna , Bialon Monika , Ludwin Artur , Skrzypek Klaudia
Published: May 2021

Background: (1) Endometrial cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, with a growing incidence. To better understand the different behaviors associated with endometrial cancer, it is necessary to understand the changes that occur at a molecular level. CD133 is one of the factors that regulate tumor progression, which is primarily known as the transmembrane glycoprotein associated with tumor progression or cancer stem cells. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of subcellular CD133 expression on the clinical course of endometrial cancer. (2) Methods: CD133 expression in the plasma membrane, nucleus, and cytoplasm was assessed by immunohistochemical staining in a group of 64 patients with endometrial cancer representing FIGO I-IV stages, grades 1–3 and accounting for tumor angioinvasion. (3) Results: Nuclear localization of CD133 expression was increased in FIGO IB-IV stages compared to FIGO IA. Furthermore, CD133 expression in the nucleus and plasma membrane is positively and negatively associated with a higher grade of endometrial cancer and angioinvasion, respectively. (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that positive nuclear CD133 expression in the tumor may be related to a less favorable prognosis of endometrial carcinoma patients and has emerged as a useful biomarker of a high-risk group.
Cardiac Sarcoidosis Is Uncommon in Patients with Isolated Sarcoid Uveitis: Outcome of 294 Cases
Authors: Richard Mael , Jamilloux Yvan , Courand Pierre-Yves , Perard Laurent , Durel Cécile-Audrey , Hot Arnaud , Burillon Carole , Durieu Isabelle , Gerfaud-Valentin Mathieu , Kodjikian Laurent , Seve Pascal
Published: May 2021

Recently, concerns have been raised about an increased risk of cardiac sarcoidosis in patients with sarcoid uveitis. While cardiac sarcoidosis has a high mortality burden, there is still a lack of precise data on this association. The objective of this study is to describe the frequency and type of cardiac complications associated with sarcoidosis of a large cohort of patients with sarcoid uveitis. We analyzed the cardiac outcomes of a monocentric retrospective cohort of consecutive adults with a diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis between January 2004 and March 2020 in a tertiary French university hospital. A total of 294 patients with a final diagnosis of sarcoid uveitis were included. At final follow-up, seven (2.4%) patients of the cohort had cardiac sarcoidosis. Cardiac sarcoidosis was more frequent among patients with previously reported systemic sarcoidosis (p = 0.008). The prevalence of cardiac sarcoidosis among patients with sarcoid uveitis is low, but patients with previously diagnosed sarcoidosis or those who develop systemic sarcoidosis during follow-up appear to be at increased risk.
The Addition of Endometrial Injury to Freeze-All Strategy in Women with Repeated Implantation Failures
Authors: Rigos Ioannis , Athanasiou Vasileios , Vlahos Nikolaos , Papantoniou Nikolaos , Profer Dimitrios , Siristatidis Charalampos
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) after IVF remains a challenging topic for fertility specialists and a frustrating reality for patients with infertility. Various approaches have been investigated and applied towards the improvement of clinical outcomes. Through a nonrandomized clinical trial, we evaluated the effect of the combination of hysteroscopic endometrial injury and the freeze-all technique on pregnancy parameters in a cohort of RIF patients; (2) Methods: The study group comprised of 30 patients with RIF that underwent a hysteroscopic endometrial injury prior to a frozen embryo transfer cycle; another 30 patients with RIF, comprising the control group, underwent a standard frozen cycle with no adjuvant treatment before. Live birth comprised the primary outcome. Logistic and Poisson regression analyses were implemented to reveal potential independent predictors for all outcomes. (3) Results: Live birth rates were similar between groups (8/30 vs. 3/30, p = 0.0876). Biochemical and clinical pregnancy and miscarriages were also independent of the procedure (p = 0.7812, p = 0.3436 and p = 0.1213, respectively). The only confounding factor that contributed to biochemical pregnancy was the number of retrieved oocytes (0.1618 ± 0.0819, p = 0.0481); (4) Conclusions: The addition of endometrial injury to the freeze-all strategy in infertile women with RIF does not significantly improve pregnancy rates, including live birth. A properly conducted RCT with adequate sample size could give a robust answer.
Radial Access for Coronary Angiography Carries Fewer Complications Compared with Femoral Access: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Bajraktari Gani , Rexhaj Zarife , Elezi Shpend , Zhubi-Bakija Fjolla , Bajraktari Artan , Bytyçi Ibadete , Batalli Arlind , Henein Michael Y.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: In patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), the benefits associated with radial access compared with the femoral access approach remain controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the short-term evidence-based clinical outcome of the two approaches. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing radial versus femoral access for CA and PCI. We identified 34 RCTs with 29,352 patients who underwent CA and/or PCI and compared 14,819 patients randomized for radial access with 14,533 who underwent procedures using femoral access. The follow-up period for clinical outcome was 30 days in all studies. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a fixed-effect or a random-effect model, as appropriate. Risk ratios (RRs) were used for efficacy and safety outcomes.Results: Compared with femoral access, the radial access was associated with significantly lower risk for all-cause mortality (RR: 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.61 to 0.88; p = 0.001), major bleeding (RR: 0.53; 95% CI:0.43 to 0.65; p ˂ 0.00001), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)(RR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.91; p = 0.0002), and major vascular complications (RR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.48; p ˂ 0.00001). These results were consistent irrespective of the clinical presentation of ACS or STEMI. Conclusions: Radial access in patients undergoing CA with or without PCI is associated with lower mortality, MACE, major bleeding and vascular complications, irrespective of clinical presentation, ACS or STEMI, compared with femoral access.
The Diagnostic Significance of Ultrasonographic Measurement of the Achilles Tendon Thickness for the Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy in Patients with Heel Pain
Authors: Kim Du-Hwan , Choi Jae-Hyeong , Park Chul-Hyun , Park Hee-Jin , Yoon Kyung-Jae , Lee Yong-Taek
Published: May 2021

No consensus exists concerning the diagnostic role or cutoff value of the Achilles tendon thickness on ultrasonography (US) for the diagnosis of insertional Achilles tendinopathy. This study sought to assess the diagnostic utility of US measurement of the thickness and echogenicity of the Achilles tendon for the insertional Achilles tendinopathy in patients with heel pain, and to compare the results with those of the plantar fascia for the plantar fasciitis. We conducted US examinations in consecutive patients who presented with unilateral or bilateral heel pain at the foot clinic of a single tertiary hospital from February 2016 to December 2020. Each US evaluation assessed the thickness and echogenicity of the insertion area of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. We retrospectively compared these parameters between patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis and normal controls and analyzed the diagnostic utility of these parameters. Based on clinical diagnosis, 44 feet were diagnosed with insertional Achilles tendinopathy, 109 feet were diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, and 32 feet were classified as normal. There was a significant difference in the thickness of the plantar fascia between the plantar fasciitis and normal control groups (p = 0.032). There was also a significant difference in the echogenicity of the plantar fascia between the plantar fasciitis and normal groups (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the thickness of the insertional area of the Achilles tendon between the insertional Achilles tendinopathy and normal groups (p = 0.132). There was a significant difference in the echogenicity of the insertional area of the Achilles tendon between the insertional Achilles tendinopathy and normal groups (p < 0.001). US measurement of the thickness of the insertional area of the Achilles tendon might not reflect the clinical status of insertional Achilles tendinopathy, unlike that of plantar fasciitis.
Two-Thirds Dose Photodynamic Therapy for Pachychoroid Neovasculopathy
Authors: Tanaka Koji , Mori Ryusaburo , Wakatsuki Yu , Onoe Hajime , Kawamura Akiyuki , Nakashizuka Hiroyuki
Published: May 2021

Pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV) is treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection and photodynamic therapy (PDT), but no curative treatment has yet been established. We aimed to clarify the treatment results of a reduced dose of PDT for PNV. The subjects were 27 eyes of 27 patients (male:female = 20:7, mean age 58.9 years). PDT, at 2/3 of the conventional dose (2/3PDT), was administered once. The patients were then observed for one year. Eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) were excluded. We investigated the associations among the central retinal thickness, choroidal thickness, and visual acuity changes before treatment and one, three, six and 12 months after PDT. When serous retinal detachment was increased or unchanged or new hemorrhages were observed, as compared with pretreatment findings, intravitreal injection of an anti-VEGF agent was performed. Visual acuity was significantly improved, as compared to before treatment, at three, six, and 12 months after 2/3PDT. Foveal retinal thickness was significantly decreased after versus before treatment in the 2/3PDT group (p < 0.001). Foveal choroidal thickness was also significantly reduced in the 2/3PDT group (p = 0.001). Additional intravitreal anti-VEGF agent injections were administered to three patients (11%), while 24 (89%) required no additional treatment during the one-year follow-up period. For PNV without polyps, 2/3PDT appears to be effective.
Aesthetic Outcomes and Peri-Implant Health of Angled Screw Retained Implant Restorations Compared with Cement Retained Crowns: Medium Term Follow-Up
Authors: Nastri Livia , Nucci Ludovica , Grassia Vincenzo , Miraldi Rino
Published: May 2021

Single tooth implant restorations in the aesthetic area are a demanding challenge. If a complete osseointegration is mandatory, the final result has to result in a higher standard of biomimetic and soft tissue health among natural teeth. This outcome is traditionally pursued by cementing crowns over individualized abutments. However, in recent years, the need for controlling peri-implant health and the preference towards a retrievable solution has led to an increase in screw-retained crowns, which is not always applicable when the implant axis is not ideal. In the aesthetic area, the use of a novel technical solution represented by the angled screw channel (ASC) of the abutment has been proposed in order to match the advantages of the screwed solution with the aesthetic demands. The aim of this study was to compare ASC crowns to cemented crowns (CC) in single implant restorations using the white esthetic score (WES) and pink esthetic score (PES) at the crown delivery and at a follow-up of a minimum of 2 years. Peri-implant health and marginal bone loss (MBL) were also evaluated. The mean follow-up was 44.3 months, with a mean MBL of 0.22 mm in the ASC group and 0.29 mm in the CC group. The total WES/PES score was 16.6 for ASC, compared with 17.3 for CC at baseline, and 16.2 and 17.1, respectively, at follow-up. Both of the groups reached a high WES/PES, and this was maintained over time, without signs of peri-implant diseases or bone loss, regardless of the choice of connection. In conclusion, ASC can be adopted in cases where the implant axis is not ideal, with aesthetic and functional results that are comparable to implants restored by cemented crowns.
Evidence of a New MoYpd1p Phosphotransferase Isoform in the Multistep Phosphorelay System of Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Bühring Sri , Yemelin Alexander , Michna Thomas , Tenzer Stefan , Jacob Stefan
Published: May 2021

Different external stimuli are perceived by multiple sensor histidine kinases and transmitted by phosphorylation via the phosphotransfer protein Ypd1p in the multistep phosphorelay system of the high osmolarity glycerol signaling pathway of filamentous fungi. How the signal propagation takes place is still not known in detail since multiple sensor histidine kinase genes in most filamentous fungi are coded in the genome, whereas only one gene for Ypd1p exists. That raises the hypothesis that various Ypd1p isoforms are produced from a single gene sequence, perhaps by alternative splicing, facilitating a higher variability in signal transduction. We found that the mRNA of MoYPD1 in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae is subjected to an increased structural variation and amplified putative isoforms on a cDNA level. We then generated mutant strains overexpressing these isoforms, purified the products, and present here one previously unknown MoYpd1p isoform on a proteome level. Alternative splicing was found to be a valid molecular mechanism to increase the signal diversity in eukaryotic multistep phosphorelay systems.
Changes of Heart Rate and Lipid Composition in Mytilus Edulis and Modiolus Modiolus Caused by Crude Oil Pollution and Low Salinity Effects
Authors: Bakhmet Igor , Fokina Natalia , Ruokolainen Tatiana
Published: May 2021

Blue mussels, Mytilus edulis, inhabiting tidal zones, are naturally exposed to fluctuating environmental conditions (e.g., fluctuations in temperature and salinities), while horse mussels, Modiolus modiolus, live under relatively invariable shelf water conditions. The present investigation tested the hypothesis: blue mussels, in comparison to horse mussels, have an increased ability to tolerate the stress of pollution combined with low salinity. To assess the response of blue mussels and horse mussels to oil pollution at seawater salinities of 25 psu (normal) and 15 psu (low), we used a combination of heart rate and lipid composition as physiological and biochemical indicators, respectively. A sharp decrease in heart rate as well as important fluctuations in cardiac activity was observed under all oil concentrations. Modifications in the concentrations of the main membrane lipid classes (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and cholesterol) and storage lipids (primarily triacylglycerols) in response to different crude oil concentrations were time- and dose-dependent. Both chosen indicators showed a high sensitivity to crude oil contamination. Furthermore, both bivalve species showed similar responses to oil pollution, suggesting a universal mechanism for biochemical adaptation to crude oil pollution.
A Systemic Inflammation Response Score for Prognostic Prediction of Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Zhang Kaiming , Ping Liqin , Ou Xueqi , Bazhabayi Meiheban , Xiao Xiangsheng
Published: May 2021

Background: Systemic inflammatory response is related to the occurrence, progression, and prognosis of cancers. In this research, a novel systemic inflammation response score (SIRS) was calculated, and its prognostic value for postoperative stage I-III breast cancer (BC) patients was analyzed. Methods: 1583 BC patients were included in this research. Patients were randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 1187) and validation cohort (n = 396). SIRS was established in the training cohort based on independent prognostic hematological indicator, its relationship between prognosis and clinical features was analyzed. Then, a nomogram consisted of SIRS and clinical features was established, its performance was examined by calibration plots and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: The SIRS was an independent prognostic indicator for BC patients, and a high-SIRS was related to multifocality, advanced N stage, and worse prognosis. Incorporating SIRS into a nomogram could accurately predict the prognosis of BC patients, the results of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of nomogram was up to 0.806 in training cohort and 0.905 in the validation cohort. Conclusion: SIRS was associated with the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. Nomogram based on SIRS can accurately predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Children under 5 Years of Age in the WHO European Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Suleiman-Martos Nora , Caballero-Vázquez Alberto , Gómez-Urquiza Jose Luis , Albendín-García Luis , Romero-Béjar Jose Luis , Cañadas-De la Fuente Guillermo A.
Published: May 2021

A respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the major cause of respiratory tract infection in children under 5 years. However, RSV infection in the European Region of the World Health Organization has not been systematically reviewed. The aim was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with RSV in children under 5 years of age in European regions. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. CINAHL, Medline, LILACS, ProQuest, SciELO, and Scopus databases were consulted for studies published in the last 5 years, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. The search equation was “respiratory syncytial virus AND (newborn OR infant OR child) AND (prevalence OR risk factors)”. Studies reporting the prevalence of RSV were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. A total of 20 articles were included. The meta-analytic prevalence estimation of RSV, with a sample of n = 16,115 children, was 46% (95% CI 34–59%). The main risk factors were age, male gender, winter season, and environmental factors such as cold temperatures, higher relative humidity, high concentrations of benzene, exposure to tobacco, and living in urban areas. Robust age-specific estimates of RSV infection in healthy children should be promoted in order to determine the optimal age for immunization. In addition, it is necessary to analyse in greater depth the potentially predictive factors of RSV infection, to be included in prevention strategies.
Increased Incidence and Associated Risk Factors of Aspergillosis in Patients with Bronchiectasis
Authors: Yang Bumhee , Kim Taehee , Ryu Jiin , Park Hye , Hwangbo Bin , Kong Sun-Young , Kwon Yong-Soo , Lee Seung , Ra Seung , Oh Yeon-Mok , Sohn Jang , Choe Kang , Choi Hayoung , Lee Hyun
Published: May 2021

There are insufficient data regarding the relationship between non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and incident aspergillosis. We performed a population-based, matched cohort study using data from the Korean National Health Insurance database between 2003 and 2013. The incidence of aspergillosis was 50/100,000 person-years in the bronchiectasis cohort and 11/100,000 person-years in the matched cohort (subdistribution hazard ratio, 4.53; 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.25–6.32). Among the bronchiectasis cohort, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjusted HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.07–3.57), previous pulmonary tuberculosis (adjusted HR, 3.67; 95% CI, 2.03–6.64), and non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (adjusted HR, 11.25; 95% CI, 1.49–85.18) increased the risk of incident aspergillosis. The incidence of aspergillosis in patients with bronchiectasis was approximately 4.5-fold that in those without bronchiectasis. Comorbid pulmonary diseases—chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, previous pulmonary tuberculosis, and non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease—significantly increased the risk of aspergillosis in patients with bronchiectasis. Our study indicates that close monitoring is warranted for aspergillosis in patients with bronchiectasis.
Patient-Derived Cancer Organoids for Precision Oncology Treatment
Authors: Pernik Mark N. , Bird Cylaina E. , Traylor Jeffrey I. , Shi Diana D. , Richardson Timothy E. , McBrayer Samuel K. , Abdullah Kalil G.
Published: May 2021

The emergence of three-dimensional human organoids has opened the door for the development of patient-derived cancer organoid (PDO) models, which closely recapitulate parental tumor tissue. The mainstays of preclinical cancer modeling include in vitro cell lines and patient-derived xenografts, but these models lack the cellular heterogeneity seen in human tumors. Moreover, xenograft establishment is resource and time intensive, rendering these models difficult to use to inform clinical trials and decisions. PDOs, however, can be created efficiently and retain tumor-specific properties such as cellular heterogeneity, cell–cell and cell–stroma interactions, the tumor microenvironment, and therapeutic responsiveness. PDO models and drug-screening protocols have been described for several solid tumors and, more recently, for gliomas. Since PDOs can be developed in clinically relevant time frames and share many characteristics of parent tumors, they may enhance the ability to provide precision oncologic care for patients. This review explores the current literature on cancer organoids, highlighting the history of PDO development, organoid models of glioma, and potential clinical applications of PDOs.
Effects of Land-Use Intensity and Land Management Policies on Evolution of Regional Land System: A Case Study in the Hengduan Mountain Region
Authors: Yin Le , Dai Erfu , Xie Guopan , Zhang Baolei
Published: May 2021

In the last few decades, land use/land cover (LULC) has changed significantly under the influence of local planning and policy implementation, and this has had a profound impact on the regional ecological environment. By taking the Hengduan Mountain region as the study area, this study considered the demands of various commodities and services and applied the CLUMondo model to predict the trajectory of change in the land system for the years 2010–2030. The results indicate that the forest system expands significantly in this time, while the grassland and cropland systems are projected to develop intensively under the three scenarios. The high demand for livestock products is the main cause of the intensification of the grassland system under the TREND scenario, the demand for forests leads to the expansion of the forest land system under the FOREST scenario, and the significant intensification of the cropland system under the CONSERVATION scenario is closely related to an increase in the area of ecological land. The results of this study can provide a scientific reference for the optimal management of land systems in other mountainous areas.