bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Stress Granule Formation by a Chiral Compound Targeting G3BP1 via eIF2α Phosphorylation
Authors: Park Yoon Ho , Cho Hyun Suh , Moon Sungjin , Namkoong Sim , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: September 2024

The chirality of a chemical differentiates it from its mirror-image counterpart. This unique property has significant implications in chemistry, biology, and drug discovery, where chiral chemicals display high selectivity and activity in achieving target specificity and reducing attrition rates in drug development. Stress granules (SGs) are dynamic assemblies of proteins and RNA that form in the cytoplasm of cells under stress conditions. Modulating their formation or disassembly could offer a novel approach to treating a wide range of diseases. This has led to significant interest in SGs as potential therapeutic targets. This study examined the NTF2-like domain of G3BP1 as a possible target for SG modulation. Molecular docking was used to simulate the interactions of compounds with the domain, and a potential candidate with a chiral structure was identified. The experiments showed that the compound induced the formation of SG-like granules. Importantly, the ability of this compound to modulate SG offers valuable insights into a new mechanism underlying the dynamics and promoting the assembly of SGs, and this new mechanism, in turn, holds potential for the development of drugs with diverse mechanisms of action and potentially synergistic effects.
TongGuanWan Alleviates Doxorubicin- and Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis by Modulating Apoptotic and Fibrotic Pathways
Authors: Yoon Jung-Joo , Tai Ai-Lin , Kim Hye-Yoom , Han Byung-Hyuk , Shin Sarah , Lee Ho-Sub , Kang Dae-Gill
Published: September 2024

Heart failure, a major public health issue, often stems from prolonged stress or damage to the heart muscle, leading to cardiac hypertrophy. This can progress to heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. Doxorubicin (DOX), a common chemotherapy drug, and isoproterenol (ISO), a β-adrenergic agonist, both induce cardiac hypertrophy through different mechanisms. This study investigates TongGuanWan (TGW,), a traditional herbal remedy, for its effects on cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in DOX-induced H9c2 cells and ISO-induced mouse models. TGW was found to counteract DOX-induced increases in H9c2 cell surface area (n = 8, p < 0.01) and improve biomarkers like ANP (n = 3, p < 0.01)) and BNP (n = 3, p < 0.01). It inhibited the MAPK pathway (n = 4, p < 0.01) and GATA-4/calcineurin/NFAT-3 signaling, reduced inflammation by decreasing NF-κB p65 translocation, and enhanced apoptosis-related factors such as caspase-3 (n = 3, p < 0.01), caspase-9 (n = 3, p < 0.01), Bax (n = 3, p < 0.01), and Bcl-2 (n = 3, p < 0.01). Flow cytometry showed TGW reduced apoptotic cell populations. In vivo, TGW reduced heart (n = 8~10, p < 0.01), and left ventricle weights (n = 6~7), cardiac hypertrophy markers (n = 3, p < 0.01), and perivascular fibrosis in ISO-induced mice, with Western blot analysis confirming decreased levels of fibrosis-related factors like fibronectin, α-SMA (n = 3, p < 0.05), and collagen type I (n = 3, p < 0.05). These findings suggest TGW has potential as a therapeutic option for cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.
“Discovery Towards Strategy”—Co-Creating an Institutional Innovation Strategy for Digital and Medical Education
Authors: Adachi Chie
Published: September 2024

Through the pivot to emergency remote teaching during the pandemic, most universities have managed to become ‘digital’, at least in the delivery of educational programmes and business operations. And yet, the purposeful design and use of technology for education is far from the reality of such a pivot and remains difficult to achieve. While most universities outline some level of digital transformation as part of their innovation narrative and strategies, there is only a limited number of universities that adopt the culture of co-creation. This paper illustrates a bottom-up approach to the co-creation of a new digital and medical education strategy in a London-based Russell Group university to bring on change that is fit for purpose. The findings include the key insights, specifically, the five key values of what the community believed to be crucial—(i) broadening access to education, (ii) flexibility, efficiency and convenience, (iii) authentic learning, (iv) business proposition, and (v) pastoral care; and the eight areas of opportunities and challenges—(i) human relationships, (ii) co-creation, (iii) digital engagement, (iv) digital pedagogy, (v) digital literacy, (vi) edtech and IT infrastructure, (vii) support, and (viii) digital assessment and feedback. This paper also outlines the strategic project plans that were generated and since implemented as a result of the co-creation process. The limitations and future directions of this study are also noted.
Approaches for Hybrid Scaling of Agile in the IT Industry: A Systematic Literature Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Almeida Fernando , Bálint Blaskovics
Published: September 2024

Agile methodologies, initially designed for the project level, face challenges when applied at enterprise levels where complex projects and diverse stakeholders are involved. To meet this challenge, several large-scale agile methodologies have been proposed. However, these approaches are not flexible enough or tailored to the needs of organizations, projects, and their teams. It is in this context that hybrid methodologies have emerged. This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review to trace the evolution of hybrid scaling of agile and characterize different approaches to implement it. This study starts by assessing 1509 studies through the use of the PRISMA 2020 framework and identifies 38 relevant studies in this field. The findings indicate that the majority of studies are from 2021 onwards and that qualitative methodologies supported by case studies predominate, making it possible to characterize tailoring processes in these organizations. Moreover, the implementation of hybrid scaling of agile is supported by the paradigm of ambidextrous strategy, a combination of agile with traditional project management methodologies, and continuous improvements. This study contributes insights into navigating the complexities of agile scaling, offering practical guidance for organizations seeking to optimize their project management practices.
The Definition, Diagnosis, and Management of Giant Splenic Artery Aneurysms and Pseudoaneurysms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rinaldi Valerio , Illuminati Giulio , Caronna Roberto , Prezioso Giampaolo , Palumbo Piergaspare , Saullo Paolina , D’Andrea Vito , Nardi Priscilla
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Giant splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) and pseudoaneurysms (SAPs) represent rare conditions, characterized by a diameter greater than or equal to 5 cm. The risk of rupture is increased compared to common SAAs and SAPs, necessitating urgent treatments to prevent it. Methods: This systematic review was conducted through a comprehensive search involving the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases. A total of 82 patients and 65 articles were included in the analysis. For each patient, we investigated age, sex, symptoms, comorbidities, the presence of a true or a false aneurysm, the dimensional criteria used to define dilations as giant aneurysms or pseudoaneurysms, the dimension of the two greatest diameters, imaging studies, surgical treatment, post-operative length of stay (LOS), and post-operative follow-up. Results: The results revealed a similar incidence in both genders (43 males vs. 39 females) with a median age of 55.79 years. The most frequently described symptom was pain (59.76%). Thirteen cases were false aneurysms and 69 were true aneurysms. The mean greatest diameter was 9.90 cm. The CT scan was the most utilized imaging study (80.49%). Open, endovascular, and hybrid surgery were performed in 47, 26, and 9 patients, respectively, with complication rates of 14.89%, 23.08%, and 22.22% occurring for each treatment. The post-operative LOS was 12.29 days, 2.36 days, and 5 days, respectively. The median follow-up was 17.28 months overall. No recanalization was observed after endovascular procedures during the follow-up period. Conclusions: The dimensional criterion to define SAAs and SAPs as giant was most frequently that at least one diameter was ≥ 5 cm. The CT scan was the most frequently utilized radiological study to diagnose giant SAAs and SAPs. Finally, endovascular procedures, open surgeries, and hybrid treatments presented similar post-operative complication rates. The post-operative LOS was lower for the endovascular group, and the follow-up period did not show aneurysm recanalization in any patients.
Association between Inflammatory Markers and Psychometric Scores in Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Liakou Aikaterini I. , Rotsiamis Nikolaos , Tsantes Andreas G. , Routsi Eleni , Rompoti Natalia , Ioannou Petros , Mpakosi Alexandra , Tsamtsouri Lydia , Agiasofitou Efthymia , Kotsafti Ourania , Bonovas Stefanos , Katoulis Alexander , Papadavid Evangelia , Rigopoulos Dimitris
Published: September 2024

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a significant impact on the quality of life of affected patients. This study aimed to correlate serum inflammatory markers with specific tools assessing quality of life, emotional well-being, and loneliness, such as the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Methods: A pilot observational study including 37 patients with HS was conducted. Inflammatory serum markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), were evaluated at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months later. Psychometric scores were also evaluated at the same study intervals. Results: DLQI was correlated with ESR at baseline (Spearman’s rho = 0.35, p = 0.03), indicating that poorer quality of life is associated with changes in this serum marker. Disease activity, as reflected by inflammatory markers, was associated with significant psychological burden. Specifically, a worse DLQI score was associated with higher ESR (estimate β = 0.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05–0.22; p = 0.001) and higher CRP level (estimate β = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.02–0.48; p = 0.02). Similarly, a worse UCLA score was associated with higher ESR (estimate β = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.02–0.20, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Our study results underline the close relation between systemic inflammatory markers and clinical severity together with psychological burden in HS patients, as indicated by the significant association that was revealed between ESR/CRP and poorer psychometric scores. However, further research is warranted to validate these findings.
The Predictive Value of Global Longitudinal and Circumferential Strains in Hypertensive Patients: 10-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Filipovic Tamara , Suzic Jelena , Majstorovic Anka , Pencic Biljana , Vukomanovic Vladan , Cuspidi Cesare , Celic Vera
Published: September 2024

Background: The aim of the current study was to investigate the predictive value of a multidirectional LV strain on adverse outcomes in a large population of uncomplicated hypertensive patients who were followed for a mean period of 10 years. Methods: This retrospective study included 591 recently diagnosed hypertensive patients who underwent clinically indicated echocardiography between January 2010 and December 2014 and were followed for a mean period of 10 years. Global longitudinal, circumferential and radial strains (GLS, GCS and GRS) were measured by 2D speckle tracking imaging. The primary outcome was a MACE occurrence defined by all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, coronary artery by-pass, coronary stent implantation, stroke, development of heart failure and the occurrence of atrial fibrillation during follow-up. Results: Our results showed that GLS, GCS and GRS were significantly lower in patients who experienced MACE. Age, male gender, systolic blood pressure, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and left atrial enlargement (LAE) were associated with MACE occurrence. Reduced GLS [OR 1.15; 95%CI: 1.01–1.30] and reduced GCS [OR 1.1; 95%CI: 1.02–1.22] were related with MACE independently of clinical characteristics, LV systolic and diastolic function, as well as LVH. Reduced GRS was not independently associated with adverse outcomes. Conclusions: Reduced GLS and GCS were independently associated with adverse outcomes during 10-year follow-up in patients who were recently diagnosed and uncomplicated hypertensive patients at the baseline.
Seeking a Treatable Cause of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest during and after Resuscitation
Authors: Halablab Saleem M. , Reis William , Abella Benjamin S.
Published: September 2024

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) represents a significant global public health burden, characterized by low survival and few established diagnostic tools to guide intervention. OHCA presents with a wide variety of etiologies in a heterogeneous population, posing a clinical challenge to care teams. In this review, we describe evolving research focused on diagnostic approaches to OHCA following resuscitation, including electrocardiography, coronary angiography, computed tomography, ultrasonography, and serologic biomarker assessment. These diagnostic tools have been employed in post-resuscitative efforts for diagnosing ischemic and non-ischemic cardiac, respiratory, neurologic, vascular, traumatic, and metabolic causes of arrest.
Are Palliative Interventions Worth the Risk in Advanced Gastric Cancer? A Systematic Review
Authors: Gingrich Alicia A. , Flojo Renceh B. , Walsh Allyson , Olson Jennifer , Hanson Danielle , Bateni Sarah B. , Gholami Sepideh , Kirane Amanda R.
Published: September 2024

Background: Less than 25% of gastric cancers (GC) are discovered early, leading to limited treatment options and poor outcomes (27.8% mortality, 3.7% 5-year survival). Screening programs have improved cure rates, yet post-diagnosis treatment guidelines remain unclear (systemic chemotherapy versus surgery). The optimal type of palliative surgery (palliative gastrectomy (PG), surgical bypass (SB), endoscopic stenting (ES)) for long-term outcomes is also debated. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases along with Google Scholar with the search terms “gastric cancer” and “palliative surgery” for studies post-1985. From the initial 1018 articles, multiple screenings narrowed it to 92 articles meeting criteria such as “metastatic, stage IV GC”, and intervention (surgery or chemotherapy). Data regarding survival and other long-term outcomes were recorded. Results: Overall, there was significant variation between studies but there were similarities of the conclusions reached. ES provided quick symptom relief, while PG showed improved overall survival (OS) only with adjuvant chemotherapy in a selective population. PG had higher mortality rates compared to SB, with ES having a reported 0% mortality, but OS improved with chemotherapy across both SB and PG. Conclusions: Less frail patients may experience an improvement in OS with palliative resection under limited circumstances. However, operative intervention without systemic chemotherapy is unlikely to demonstrate a survival benefit. Further research is needed to explore any correlations.
How Long Is Long COVID? Evaluation of Long-Term Health Status in Individuals Discharged from a Specialist Community Long COVID Service
Authors: Bodey Rochelle , Grimaldi Jennifer , Tait Hannah , Godfrey Belinda , Witton Sharon , Shardha Jenna , Tarrant Rachel , Sivan Manoj
Published: September 2024

Background: Post COVID-19 syndrome or long COVID (LC) is a novel fluctuating condition with a protracted course in some patients. Specialist LC services have been operational in the UK since 2020 and deal with a high caseload of patients. Aims: To evaluate long-term outcomes in patients discharged from a community-based LC specialist service. Methods: A service evaluation study that included patients who were well engaged in the services [completed the standard Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and received intervention from clinician(s)] and had been discharged for at least 3 months from the service. They consented to the study and completed standard PROMs: COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale (C19-YRS), EQ-5D-5L and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) criteria for myalgia encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Results: Out of 460 patients contacted, 112 (average of 37.6 months since infection and 9.8 months post-discharge) completed the PROMs. Of these, 90.2% patients continued to experience LC symptoms and disability and had not returned to their pre-COVID-19 health status. The average EQ-5D-5L index score was 0.53 (SD 0.29), highlighting a significant disability and that LC had become a long-term condition (LTC) in the majority of patients who responded to the survey. Of these patients, 43% met the criteria for suspected ME/CFS. Conclusions: A proportion of LC patients develop persistent long COVID (PLC) consistent with a LTC and had a significant overlap with ME/CFS.
Advances in Adenomyosis Treatment: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, Percutaneous Microwave Therapy, and Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Athanasiou Adamantios , Fruscalzo Arrigo , Dedes Ioannis , Mueller Michael D. , Londero Ambrogio P. , Marti Carolin , Guani Benedetta , Feki Anis
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Adenomyosis is a debilitating gynecologic condition that affects both multiparous older women and nulliparous younger women, inducing a variety of symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and infertility. Thermal ablation techniques are new procedures that have been proposed for the treatment of adenomyosis. They include high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Because thermal ablation techniques are minimally invasive or noninvasive, fertility is not impaired while symptoms improve. In addition, hospital stays and financial costs are generally reduced, increasing the interest in these alternative management options. Methods: In this narrative review, we conducted a thorough literature search of PubMed/Medline from the database inception to September 2022. In our search, we focused on noninvasive treatment methods such as HIFU ablation, RFA ablation, and PMWA as well as adenomyosis-specific terms and noninvasive techniques (ultrasonography, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging). The queries were a combination of MeSH terms and keywords. The search was limited to the English language. Abstracts were screened according to their content, and relevant articles were selected. Results: Overall, the results showed that the above-mentioned ablation techniques are effective and safe in providing adenomyosis treatment. Lesion size and uterus volume are reduced, leading to considerable symptom alleviation with all three methods. Positive results concerning safety and fertility preservation have been described as well. Conclusions: Nonetheless, more research is required in this field to compare the efficacy and safety of different ablation techniques with traditional therapies. Such research will help improve these procedures and their associated decision-making processes.
Circulating RKIP and pRKIP in Early-Stage Lung Cancer: Results from a Pilot Study
Authors: Gasparri Roberto , Papale Massimo , Sabalic Angela , Catalano Valeria , Deleonardis Annamaria , De Luca Federica , Ranieri Elena , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: September 2024

Background: Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Although low-dose computed tomography (LD-CT) reduces mortality, its clinical use is limited by cost, radiation, and false positives. Therefore, there is an urgent need for non-invasive and cost-effective biomarkers. The Raf Kinase Inhibitor Protein (RKIP) plays a crucial role in cancer development and progression and may also contribute to regulating the tumor–immune system axis. This protein has recently been described in biological fluids. Therefore, we conducted a pilot case–control study to assess RKIP and phosphorylated RKIP (pRKIP) levels in the urine and blood of LC patients. Methods: A novel enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay was used to measure RKIP and pRKIP levels in urine and blood samples of two cohorts of LC patients and healthy controls (HSs). Furthermore, the biomarkers levels were correlated with tumor characteristics. Results: Serum, but not urine, levels of RKIP were significantly elevated in LC patients, distinguishing them from low- and high-risk healthy subjects with 93% and 74% accuracy, respectively. The RKIP/pRKIP ratio (RpR score) showed an accuracy of 90% and 79% in distinguishing LC patients from HS and HR-HS, respectively. Additionally, the RpR score correlated better with dimension, stage, and lymph node involvement in the tumor group. Conclusions: The serum RKIP and pRKIP profile may be a promising novel biomarker for early-stage LC.
Sensitization to Staphylococcus Enterotoxin: Relationship with Aspects of Disease Severity
Authors: Schoini Pinelopi , Apollonatou Vasiliki , Kallieri Maria , Blizou Myrto , Sfika Maria , Koufopoulos Nektarios , Pouliakis Abraham , Liatsis Emmanouil , Foukas Periklis , Bakakos Petros , Loukides Stelios
Published: September 2024

Background/Objective: Sensitization to specific IgE Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins (SEs) is associated with an increased risk for severe asthma development. Limited data exist regarding the association of seropositivity for specific IgE SEs and the different aspects of severe asthma. We aimed to determine whether the presence of SEs is associated with asthma-related parameters such as inflammatory cells in the airways, features of airway remodeling, and other variables relating to asthma assessment and severity. Methods: Fifty patients with severe asthma were recruited in the study. Demographics, comorbidities, asthma duration, and asthma medication were recorded by treating physicians. Specific IgE SE measurement, lung function, atopic status, asthma control test (ACT), sputum induction, bronchoscopy with BAL, and indices of airway remodeling were also assessed. Results: Twelve patients were positive to enterotoxin sensitization. Patients seropositive to specific IgE SEs significantly differed in regard to FEV1% pred and FEV1/FVC ratio compared to seronegative ones. Analyzing the inflammatory variables obtained from induced sputum, BAL, and endobronchial biopsies, the only significant difference was that of smooth muscle area (SMA), which was greater in specific IgE SE seropositive patients. The multivariate linear regression analysis showed two significant associations of specific IgE SE seropositivity. We found a negative with FEV1% pred with beta standardized coefficient 95%CI −0.054 (−0.083, −0.031), p < 0.001, and a positive with SMA with beta standardized coefficient 95%CI 0.054 (0.081, 0.037), p < 0.001. Conclusions: Seropositivity to specific IgE SEs in severe asthma is associated with more severe airflow limitation, obstruction, and upregulation in SMA, indicating a possible role in the remodeling process.
Management of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery in Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia Patients with Anti-GPIIb-IIIa Antibodies: A Case Report
Authors: Leuci Alexandre , Millon Antoine , Chopin Alice , Rezigue Hamdi , Alotaibi Ssakher , Dargaud Yesim
Published: September 2024

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia (GT) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of platelet function. The frequent occurrence of alloimmunization due to repeated platelet transfusions is the major complication of the disease. Achieving hemostasis in these patients with anti-GPIIb-IIIa antibodies during surgical procedures is a significant challenge due to the high risk of bleeding. Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is an effective agent for achieving hemostasis in alloimmunized Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia patients. The key clinical question was to determine whether abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery can be safely performed with rFVIIa in Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia patients with anti-GPIIb/IIIa antibodies and whether long-term antiplatelet therapy is suitable for these patients. The patient underwent endovascular aneurysm repair with intensive rFVIIa administration, experiencing neither bleeding nor thrombosis. Data regarding the surgical management of Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia patients with anti-GPIIb-IIIa antibodies and the use of antithrombotics in this high-risk population are still very limited. Sharing clinical experience can be valuable for hematologists managing similar cases.
Aortic and Mitral Valve Endocarditis—Simply Left-Sided Endocarditis or Different Entities Requiring Individual Consideration?—Insights from the CAMPAIGN Database
Authors: Weber Carolyn , Marin-Cuartas Mateo , Tugtekin Sems-Malte , Diab Mahmoud , Saha Shekhar , Akhyari Payam , Elderia Ahmed , Muench Florian , Petrov Asen , Aubin Hug , Misfeld Martin , Lichtenberg Artur , Hagl Christian , Doenst Torsten , Matschke Klaus , Borger Michael A. , Wahlers Thorsten , Luehr Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Background: Aortic valve infective endocarditis (AV-IE) and mitral valve infective endocarditis (MV-IE) are often grouped together as one entity: left-sided endocarditis. However, there are significant differences between the valves in terms of anatomy, physiology, pressure, and calcification tendency. This study aimed to compare AV-IE and MV-IE in terms of patient characteristics, pathogen profiles, postoperative outcomes, and predictors of mortality. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 3899 patients operated on for isolated AV-IE or MV-IE in six German cardiac surgery centers between 1994 and 2018. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to analyze the risk factors for 30 day and 1 year mortality. A Log-rank test was used to test for differences in long-term mortality. Results: Patients with MV-IE were more likely to be female (41.1% vs. 20.3%.; p < 0.001). Vegetation was detected more frequently in the MV-IE group (66.6% vs. 57.1%; p < 0.001). Accordingly, the rates of cerebral embolic events (25.4% vs. 17.7%; p < 0.001) and stroke (28.2% vs. 19.3%; p < 0.001) were higher in the MV-IE group. Staphylococci had a higher prevalence in the MV-IE group (50.2% vs. 36.4%; p < 0.001). Patients with MV-IE had comparable 30 day mortality (16.7% vs. 14.6%; p = 0.095) but significantly higher 1 year mortality (35.3% vs. 29.0%; p < 0.001) than those with AV-IE. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed significantly lower long-term survival in patients with MV-IE (log-rank p < 0.001). Conclusions: Due to the relevant differences between MV-IE and AV-IE, it might be useful to provide individualized, valve-specific guideline recommendations rather than general recommendations for left-sided IE.
Prognostic Impact of Statins in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Ortega-Hernández Samanta , González-Sosa Sonia , Conde-Martel Alicia , Trullàs Joan Carles , Llàcer Pau , Pérez-Silvestre José , Arévalo-Lorido José Carlos , Casado Jesús , Formiga Francesc , Manzano Luis , Lorenzo-Villalba Noel , Montero-Pérez-Barquero Manuel
Published: September 2024

Background: Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (pEF) has lacked effective treatments for reducing mortality. However, previous studies have found an association between statin use and decreased mortality in patients with HFpEF. The aim of this study was to analyse whether statin therapy is associated with a reduction in mortality in these patients and whether the effect differs according to the presence or absence of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Methods: We analysed data from the National Registry of Heart Failure, a prospective study that included patients admitted for HF in Internal Medicine units nationwide. Patients with HFpEF were classified according to the use of statins, and the differences between the two groups were analysed. A multivariable analysis was performed using Cox regression to assess factors independently related to mortality. Results: A total of 2788 patients with HFpEF were included; 63% of them were women with a mean age of 80.1 (±7.8) years. The statin-treated group (40.2%) was younger, with better functional status, and had a more common diagnosis of vascular disease and lower frequency of atrial fibrillation. The most frequent aetiology of HF in both groups was the hypertensive one. Nevertheless, ischaemic HF was more common in those who received statins (24.8% vs. 9.6%; p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed lower mortality at the 1-year follow-up in statin-treated patients (OR: 0.74; 95%CI: 0.61–0.89; p = 0.002). This association was observed in patients without IHD (p < 0.001) but not in those with IHD (p = 0.11). Conclusions: Statins are associated with a decrease in total mortality in patients with HFpEF. This benefit occurs mainly in those without IHD.
Beyond the Gender Binarism: Neural Correlates of Trans Men in a Functional Connectivity–Resting-State fMRI Pilot Study
Authors: Maniaci Giuseppe , Collura Giorgio , La Cascia Caterina , Piccoli Tommaso , Bongiorno Eleonora , Barresi Ilaria , Marrale Maurizio , Gagliardo Cesare , Giammanco Alessandra , Blandino Valeria , Sartorio Crocettarachele , Radellini Stefano , Ferraro Laura , Toia Francesca , Zabbia Giovanni , Bivona Giulia , Midiri Massimo , Ciaccio Marcello , La Barbera Daniele , Cordova Adriana , Quattrone Diego
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Several studies have investigated the specific neural correlates of trans people, highlighting mixed results. This study aimed to compare the presence of specific functional connectivity and differences in cognitive profile and hormone levels in trans men diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD), and a homogeneous group of cisgender men and cisgender women. Methods: A total of 42 participants (19 trans men, 11 cisgender men, and 12 cisgender women) underwent a resting state fMRI and were measured for blood levels of testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone. A neuropsychological battery evaluated executive functions, attention, visual-perceptual ability, verbal fluency, manual preference, and general intelligence. Results: Trans men showed weaker functional connectivity in the precentral gyrus, subcallosal cortex, paracingulate gyrus, temporal pole, and cingulate gyrus than cisgender men (p < 0.01). Trans men performed worse than cisgender men in verbal and visuospatial working memory but similarly to cisgender women (p < 0.05). In trans men, functional connectivity of the precentral gyrus correlated positively with testosterone (r = 0.459, p = 0.064) and negatively with estradiol (r = −0.654, p = 0.004) and progesterone blood levels (r = −0.475, p = 0.054). The cluster involving the subcallosal cortex showed a positive correlation with testosterone (r = 0.718, p = 0.001), and a negative correlation with estradiol (r = −0.602, p = 0.011). The functional connectivity from a cluster involving the paracingulate gyrus showed a positive correlation with testosterone (r = 0.592, p = 0.012). Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of overpassing the binary model by underlining the presence of neural pathways that could represent the peculiarity of the neural profile of people with GD.
Development and Improvement of a “Paper Actuator” Based on Carbon Nanotube Composite Paper with Unique Structures
Authors: Toyomasu Ryodai , Oya Takahide
Published: September 2024

We propose a new type of soft actuator based on carbon nanotube (CNT) composite paper (CNTCP), i.e., a paper actuator. In our previous study, we demonstrated that actuator operation was possible when using CNTCPs as electrodes with ordinary paper containing ionic liquid between the electrodes; however, their bending motion was not sufficient. Therefore, we here attempt to modify the paper actuator. For this, we tried to soften CNTCPs by first reducing the ratio of contained CNTs. In addition, as a new strategy, we took advantage of the fact that the proposed actuator was made of paper and introduced the Kirigami (introducing periodical slits to papers) technique into the structure of our paper actuator. As a result, the performance of the actuator was improved, and its bending motion became visibly larger. The response of the improved actuator to the input voltage was investigated in detail, and the detailed operating conditions could be clarified. Moreover, it was found that not only a bending motion but also a twisting motion could be realized in specific slit patterns. It is thought that the fact that the variation in movement can be increased simply by adding incisions is unique to the proposed paper actuator.
Evaluation of the Peri-Implant Tissues of Patients with Severe Bone Atrophy Treated with a New Short and Extra-Short Implant System—A Pilot Study
Authors: de Moraes Kely Cristina , Thomé Geninho , Fontão Flávia Noemy Gasparini Kiatake , Cartelli Carolina Accorsi , Marcantonio Rosemary Adriana Chierici , Malzoni Carolina Mendonça de Almeida , Marcantonio Junior Elcio
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes, including implant survival, marginal bone loss, and patient satisfaction, in individuals with severe bone atrophy treated using a newly developed system of short and extra-short implants. A total of 44 implants (37 short and 7 extra-short) were placed with immediate loading in 11 patients. The patients were followed up at between 6 and 24 months. Bone changes, keratinized mucosa, bleeding on probing, probing depth, crown-to-implant ratio, and patient satisfaction were evaluated. An implant survival and success rate of 100% was observed. The peri-implant bone condition showed no significant associations between marginal bone loss (MBL) and gingival recession. In extra-short implants, the crown-to-implant ratio did not affect MBL in the evaluated times. However, short implants showed a statistically significant inverse correlation between mesial measurement and crown-to-implant ratio (p = 0.006) and between distal measurement and crown-to-implant ratio (p = 0.004) over six months. Plaque was present in the mesiobuccal regions in 38.64% of the implants, with extra-short implants having the highest relative frequency (71.4%). Bleeding was observed in 18.9% of the short implants in the mesiolingual region and 14.3% of the extra-short implants. There was a statistically significant association between bleeding on probing in the mesiobuccal region and the type of implant (p = 0.026). The analysis of probing depth showed no difference between the types of implants. Within the limits of this study, short and extra-short implants presented similar clinical and radiographic behavior of soft and hard tissues in the evaluated times.
Impact of Tocopherol Supplementation on Clinical Parameters of Periodontal Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bumbu Bogdan Andrei , Luca Magda Mihaela , Buzatu Roxana
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: The significance of periodontal disease as a public health issue prompts the exploration of effective treatments, including the potential use of tocopherol (Vitamin E) due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Materials and Methods: The PICO statement (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) was as follows: In patients with periodontal disease, does tocopherol (Vitamin E) supplementation compared to no supplementation or insufficient Vitamin E intake improve clinical outcomes such as gingival inflammation, pocket depth, and clinical attachment levels? This study searched through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to June 2024 focused on studies involving human subjects with various forms of periodontal disease, analyzing the impact of tocopherol through dietary or supplementary intake. Primary outcomes evaluated included improvements in gingival inflammation, pocket depth, and clinical attachment levels, with data synthesis conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Quality assessment and risk of bias were meticulously performed for the included observational studies and randomized controlled trials. Results: The meta-analysis incorporated 8 studies that were used for data extraction, totaling 12,832 patients, revealing a heterogeneous response to tocopherol supplementation, with a pooled odds ratio for efficacy in reducing periodontal disease severity at about 0.97 (95% CI: 0.96–0.98). Noteworthy findings indicated a statistically significant increase in clinical attachment loss and pocket depth with odds ratios ranging from 1.15 to 9.33 when Vitamin E was insufficient. However, the considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 88.35%) underscores variations in tocopherol’s effectiveness across different populations and study designs. Conclusions: While tocopherol supplementation shows a modest benefit in managing periodontal disease, particularly in reducing clinical attachment levels and pocket depth, the variability in outcomes emphasizes the necessity for more research to establish standardized treatment protocols and dosages.
The Renewal of Lost Space under Overpasses in Chengdu City Based on Residents’ Requirements for Cultural Services: The Case of the Longtan Overpass
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Gan Xiaoyu , Huang Ying , Jiang Zhuoting
Published: September 2024

In modern urban development, utilizing the space under overpasses (SUO) contributes to connecting the cityscape and facilitating the transformation of SUO into a public urban space. However, existing studies sometimes fail to properly take into account user requirements, resulting in the neglect of the SUO by the population. The solutions proposed are based on the assumption that the SUO can be renewed, but there is no thorough evaluation methodology to determine if the current state of the SUO can be renewed and in which areas it needs renewal. In this research, all the overpasses within the Third Ring Road in Chengdu are taken as samples. Based on cultural ecosystem services (CES) and external spatial quality (ESQ), an evaluation system for the renewal potential of SUO was established and the overpass with the most potential for regeneration was selected: the Longtan Overpass. Further, the KANO model was used to explore the categories of residents’ requirements for indicators of CES in the space under Longtan Overpass, so as to propose targeted renewal strategies. This study found a positive correlation between the satisfaction of residents living near Longtan Overpass and the natural aesthetics and facade landscape of the SUO. It also suggests that enhancing cultural service indicators such as sports, human aesthetics, customs and humanities, and geographical history can improve the attractiveness of the SUO. This study also found that quantitatively assessing the value of SUO through ecosystem cultural services is feasible, which provides new ideas and methods for updating SUO. These findings help urban designers understand how people feel.
Sarcopenia and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Abenavoli Ludovico , Statsenko Michael , Scarlata Giuseppe Guido Maria , Morano Domenico , Myazin Roman , Emelyanov Dmitriy
Published: September 2024

The primary objective of modern medicine is to extend human life expectancy. Currently, the majority of hospital patients across various clinical settings are elderly or advanced-age individuals, often with multiple comorbidities and age-related alterations in peripheral tissues. One such alteration is sarcopenia, a progressive decline in muscle mass, strength, and function, which significantly increases the risk of disability and mortality in older adults. Sarcopenia is associated with numerous adverse outcomes, and its underlying mechanisms are the subject of ongoing research. This narrative review discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia. It also examines the connections between sarcopenia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), highlighting potential treatment approaches for the coexistence of these two pathologies.
Cost-Effective Thermomechanical Processing of Nanostructured Ferritic Alloys: Microstructure and Mechanical Properties Investigation
Authors: Lin Yan-Ru , Zhao Yajie , Su Yi-Feng , Byun Thak Sang
Published: September 2024

Nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs), such as oxide-dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys, play a vital role in advanced fission and fusion reactors, offering superior properties when incorporating nanoparticles under irradiation. Despite their importance, the high cost of mass-producing NFAs through mechanical milling presents a challenge. This study delves into the microstructure-mechanical property correlations of three NFAs produced using a novel, cost-effective approach combining severe plastic deformation (SPD) with the continuous thermomechanical processing (CTMP) method. Analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)-electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) revealed nano-grain structures and phases, while scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM)-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) quantified the size and density of Ti-N, Y-O, and Cr-O fine particles. Atom probe tomography (APT) further confirmed the absence of finer Y-O particles and characterized the chemical composition of the particles, suggesting possible nitride dispersion strengthening. Correlation of microstructure and mechanical testing results revealed that CTMP alloys, despite having lower nanoparticle densities, exhibit strength and ductility comparable to mechanically milled ODS alloys, likely due to their fine grain structure. However, higher nanoparticle densities may be necessary to prevent cavity swelling under high-temperature irradiation and helium gas production. Further enhancements in uniform nanoparticle distribution and increased sink strength are recommended to mitigate cavity swelling, advancing their suitability for nuclear applications.
Equal–Additive–Subtractive Remanufacturing Integrated Laser Directed Energy Deposition with Shot Peening and Machining Induced High Performance of Plunger Rod
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Mou Wenping , Li Dichen , Zhu Shaowei , Li Lianyu , Liu Qiaochu , Huang Sheng
Published: September 2024

The number of easily destroyed parts with high value is increasing in industry, and green remanufacture engineering is now mainstream in this new and expanding industrial field. Equal–additive–subtractive manufacturing, as a new technology that combines strengthening technology, additive manufacturing, and machining technology has great potential for development in the area of remanufacturing. Aiming at the damage characteristics of a plunger rod, this paper carries out a study about the repair technology by equal–additive–subtractive manufacturing of laser-directed energy deposition and shot peening. It was found that the microstructure of the materials repaired by equal–additive–subtractive technology is finer and the tensile strength can reach 100.4% of the base material. The surface residual stress of cladding materials changes from tensile stress to compressive stress, which reduces forming defects. Equal–additive–subtractive manufacturing has great significance in expanding the application of hybrid manufacturing and promoting green remanufacturing of parts with high value.
Study on the Influence of Laser Power on the Heat–Flow Multi-Field Coupling of Laser Cladding Incoloy 926 on Stainless Steel Surface
Authors: Li Linjie , Cui Quanwei , Zhou Jianxing , Lu Zhicheng , Sun Haoran , Jiang Hong , Guo Wanli , Wu An
Published: September 2024

In order to explore the influence of laser power on the evolution of molten pool and convective heat transfer of laser cladding Incoloy 926 on stainless steel surface, a three-dimensional thermal fluid multi-field coupled laser cladding numerical model was established in this paper. The variation of latent heat during solid-liquid phase transformation was treated by apparent heat capacity method. The change in the gas–liquid interface was tracked using the mesh growth method in real time. The instantaneous evolution of temperature field and velocity flow field of laser cladding Incoloy 926 on a stainless steel surface under different laser power was discussed. The solidification characteristic parameters of the cladding layer were calculated based on the temperature-time variation curves at different nodes. The mechanism of the impact of laser power on the microstructure of the cladding layer was revealed. The experiment of laser cladding Incoloy 926 on 316L surface was carried out under different laser power. Combined with the numerical simulation results, the effects of laser power on the geometrical morphology, microstructure and element distribution of the cladding layer were compared and analyzed. The results show that with the increase in laser power, the peak temperature and flow velocity of the molten pool surface both increase significantly. The thermal influence of the molten pool center on the edge is enhanced. The temperature gradient, solidification rate, and cooling rate increased gradually. The microstructure parameters (G/R) are relatively small when the laser power is 1000 W. In the experimental range, the dilution rate and wetting angle of the cladding layer both increase with the increase in laser power. When the laser power is 1000 W, the alloying elements of the cladding layer are more evenly distributed and the microstructure is finer. The experimental results are in good agreement with the simulation results.
Experimental and Numerical Insights into the Multi-Impact Response of Cork Agglomerates
Authors: Antunes e Sousa Guilherme J. , Silva Afonso J. C. , Serra Gabriel F. , Fernandes Fábio A. O. , Silva Susana P. , Alves de Sousa Ricardo J.
Published: September 2024

Due to their extraordinary qualities, including fire resistance, excellent crashworthiness, low thermal conductivity, permeability, non-toxicity, and reduced density, cellular materials have found extensive use in various engineering applications. This study uses a finite element analysis (FEA) to model the dynamic compressive behaviour of agglomerated cork to ascertain how its material density and stress relaxation behaviour are related. Adding the Mullins effect into the constitutive modelling of impact tests, its rebound phase and subsequent second impact were further examined and simulated. Quasi-static and dynamic compression tests were used to evaluate the mechanical properties of three distinct agglomerated cork composite samples to feed the numerical model. According to the results, agglomerated cork has a significant capacity for elastic rebound, especially under dynamic strain rates, with minimal permanent deformation. For instance, the minimum value of its bounce-back energy is 11.8% of the initial kinetic energy, and its maximum permanent plastic deformation is less than 10%. The material’s model simulation adequately depicts the agglomerated cork’s response to initial and follow-up impacts by accurately reproducing the material’s dynamic compressive behaviour. In terms of innovation, this work stands out since it tackles the rebounding phenomena, which was not previously investigated in this group’s prior publication, either numerically or experimentally. Thus, this group has expanded the research on cork materials’ attributes.