bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in the Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Parra Natalia Salinas , Ross Heather M. , Khan Adnan , Wu Marisa , Goldberg Risa , Shah Lokesh , Mukhtar Sarah , Beiriger Jacob , Gerber Alexis , Halegoua-DeMarzio Dina
Published: January 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy, with increasing global incidence. Morbidity and mortality associated with HCC remains high, and HCC is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Early detection and treatment of HCC can increase five-year survival by over 60%. Detection of HCC remains challenging, however, as HCC arises from a variety of environmental, genetic, and viral etiologies, and it demonstrates a complex pathophysiology and displays a heterogeneous morphology. Current diagnostic methods rely on abdominal ultrasound with or without concurrent AFP biomarker testing for high-risk individuals. This review provides an overview of HCC diagnostic modalities and highlights the promising nature of translational developments in biomarkers, next generation sequencing (NGS), artificial intelligence, molecular imaging, and liquid biopsy for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of HCC. Furthermore, we identify areas for improvement that must be addressed before the widespread usage and implementation of these methods.
The Faceted and Exploratory Search for Test Knowledge
Authors: Franke Marco , Thoben Klaus-Dieter , Ehrhardt Beate
Published: January 2023

Heterogeneous test processes concerning test goals and test script languages are an integral part of mechatronic systems development in supply chains. Here, test cases are written in a multitude of different test script languages. The translation between test script languages is possible, a joint understanding and a holistic view of the mechatronic system as a system under test is only achieved in the minds of experienced test engineers. This joined-up information is called test knowledge and is the key input for test automation and in turn, it is essential for reducing the cost of product development. Persisted test knowledge enables the search for patterns semi-automatically without reading countless test cases and enables the auto-completion of essential parts of test cases. In this paper, we developed a knowledge graph that aggregates all the test knowledge automatically and integrates it into the test processes. We derived an explorative search that simplifies the test case creation. For that purpose, a corresponding user-friendly query language, and unidirectional translation capabilities were developed that translates a test case into a graph tailored to the target audience of test engineers. We demonstrated the usage and impact of this approach by evaluating it on test cases from aircraft cabin doors.
A Method for UWB Localization Based on CNN-SVM and Hybrid Locating Algorithm
Authors: Gao Zefu , Jiao Yiwen , Yang Wenge , Li Xuejian , Wang Yuxin
Published: January 2023

In this paper, aiming at the severe problems of UWB positioning in NLOS-interference circumstances, a complete method is proposed for NLOS/LOS classification, NLOS identification and mitigation, and a final accurate UWB coordinate solution through the integration of two machine learning algorithms and a hybrid localization algorithm, which is called the C-T-CNN-SVM algorithm. This algorithm consists of three basic processes: an LOS/NLOS signal classification method based on SVM, an NLOS signal recognition and error elimination method based on CNN, and an accurate coordinate solution based on the hybrid weighting of the Chan–Taylor method. Finally, the validity and accuracy of the C-T-CNN-SVM algorithm are proved through a comparison with traditional and state-of-the-art methods. (i) Focusing on four main prediction errors (range measurements, maxNoise, stdNoise and rangeError), the standard deviation decreases from 13.65 cm to 4.35 cm, while the mean error decreases from 3.65 cm to 0.27 cm, and the errors are practically distributed normally, demonstrating that after training a SVM for LOS/NLOS signal classification and a CNN for NLOS recognition and mitigation, the accuracy of UWB range measurements may be greatly increased. (ii) After target positioning, the proposed method can realize a one-dimensional X-axis and Y-axis accuracy within 175 mm, and a Z-axis accuracy within 200 mm; a 2D (X,Y) accuracy within 200 mm; and a 3D accuracy within 200 mm, most of which fall within (100 mm, 100 mm, 100 mm). (iii) Compared with the traditional algorithms, the proposed C-T-CNN-SVM algorithm performs better in location accuracy, cumulative error probability (CDF), and root-mean-square difference (RMSE): the 1D, 2D, and 3D accuracy of the proposed method is 2.5 times that of the traditional methods. When the location error is less than 10 cm, the CDF of the proposed algorithm only reaches a value of 0.17; when the positioning error reaches 30 cm, only the CDF of the proposed algorithm remains in an acceptable range. The RMSE of the proposed algorithm remains ideal when the distance error is greater than 30 cm. The results of this paper and the idea of a combination of machine learning methods with the classical locating algorithms for improved UWB positioning under NLOS interference could meet the growing need for wireless indoor locating and communication, which indicates the possibility for the practical deployment of such a method in the future.
Regulation of Aquaporin Prip Expression and Its Physiological Function in Rhyzopertha dominica (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae)
Authors: Tan Lan-Pin , Chen Mei-Er
Published: January 2023

Rhyzopertha dominica Prip (RdPrip) cDNA was cloned (GenBank accession no. OK318454), and the encoded 276-amino-acid protein indicated the typical aquaporin structure, including six transmembrane regions and two NPA motifs. The developmental and tissue profiles of RdPrip transcription were determined. RdPrip was highly transcribed in female adults, followed by larvae, pupae, and male adults. The transcriptional expression levels of RdPrip were significantly high in the ovary and hindgut (including cryptonephridial systems) compared with the foregut, testis, midgut, and Malpighian tubules. Knockdown of RdPrip in female adults did not decrease fecundity, but significantly decreased the hatching rate of eggs laid by the females. The results suggest that RdPrip functions in embryonic development, not in egg formation. In addition, the transcriptional expression level of RdPrip was lower in the spinosad-resistant strain than in the susceptible one, and the resistant strain produced fewer progeny than the susceptible strain did. These studies support the functional role of RdPrip in female reproduction. The absence of significant mortality reduction in the R. dominica exposed to spinosad after RdPrip RNAi suggests that other aquaporins that were not knocked down may exist for the excretion of metabolized pesticides.
Morphologic Characters of the Rostrum in Two Weevils, Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus Motschulsky and E. brandti Harold (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Cryptorrhychinae)
Authors: Zhang Ganyu , Sun Ruihong , Li Huijuan , Wen Junbao
Published: January 2023

(1) Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus and E. brandti (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Cryptorrhychinae) are both pests of Ailanthus altissima, found in China. During ovipositing, gravid females of the two weevils need to excavate a cavity in the oviposition substrate with their rostrum, while their oviposition sites are different. (2) In this study, to explore the boring mechanism of E. scrobiculatus and E. brandti during ovipositing, the morphologic characters of the rostra of two weevils were studied in detail by scanning electron microscopy and micro-CT. (3) Their rostra appear similar, but the rostrum surface of E. scrobiculatus is rougher than that of E. brandti; their fine structures of rostrum and sensilla distribution are similar, but the sensilla twig basiconica 3 is distributed at the apex of labial palpus in E. brandti females, while not at the apex of labial palpus in E. scrobiculatus females; their rostra are hollow and their cuticle thickness is constantly changing, but the proportion of the whole rostrum tube cuticle in E. scrobiculatus is significantly larger than that of E. brandti. The above structural differences make E. scrobiculatus more conducive to oviposition in the soil and E. brandti more conducive to oviposition in the trunk of A. altissima. (4) Overall, this study not only plays an important role in exploring the excavating mechanism during the oviposition of the two weevils, but also provides new insights into the coexistence of two weevil species on the same host A. altissima.
Selection and Comparative Gene Expression of Midgut-Specific Targets for Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Yoon June-Sun , Ahn Seung-Joon , Choi Man-Yeon
Published: January 2023

Spotted-wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii, is a destructive and invasive pest that attacks most small fruits and cherries. The current management for SWD involves the use of conventional insecticides. In an effort to develop a biologically based control option, the application of RNA interference (RNAi) has been investigated. To develop an RNAi approach, suitable targets must be identified, and an efficient delivery method must be developed for introducing the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) in the midgut. In D. suzukii, we previously found that dsRNA nucleases actively degrade dsRNA molecules in the midgut. In this study, we focused on identifying biological targets focused on the midgut membrane. The profile of midgut-specific genes was analyzed and compared with the genes expressed in the whole-body using transcriptome analysis. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that 1921 contigs were upregulated and 1834 contigs were downregulated in the midgut when compared to genes from other body tissues. We chose ten midgut-specifically upregulated genes and empirically confirmed their expressions. We are particularly interested in the midgut membrane proteins, including G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) such as diuretic hormone 31 (DH31) receptor, neuropeptide F (NPF) recepror, toll-9, adhesion receptors, methuselah (mth), and gustatory receptor, because insect GPCRs have been offered great potential for next-generation pest management.
Opioid Prescribing for Osteoarthritis: Cross-Sectional Survey among Primary Care Physicians, Rheumatologists, and Orthopaedic Surgeons
Authors: Schnitzer Thomas J. , Robinson Rebecca L. , Viktrup Lars , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Bushmakin Andrew G. , Tive Leslie , Berry Mia , Walker Chloe , Jackson James
Published: January 2023

Opioids are often prescribed for osteoarthritis (OA) pain, despite recommendations to limit use due to minimal benefits and associated harms. This study aimed to assess physicians’ practice patterns and perceptions regarding opioids by specialty one year following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published guidance on opioid prescribing. The 139/153 (90.8%) physicians who reported prescribing opioids in the previous year reported decreased prescribing for mild OA (51.3%, 26.5% and 33.3% of primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and orthopaedic surgeons, respectively), moderate OA (50.0%, 47.1% and 48.1%) and severe OA (43.6%, 41.2% and 44.4%). Prescribing changes were attributed to the CDC guidelines for 58.9% of primary care physicians, 59.1% of rheumatologists, and 73.3% of orthopaedic surgeons. Strong opioids were mostly reserved as third-line treatment. Although treatment effectiveness post-CDC guidelines was not assessed, perceptions of efficacy and quality of life with opioids significantly differed across specialties, whereas perceptions of safety, convenience/acceptability and costs did not. Physicians generally agreed on the barriers to opioid prescribing, with fear of addiction and drug abuse being the most important. Across specialties, physicians reported decreased opioid prescribing for OA, irrespective of OA severity, and in most cases attributed changes in prescribing to the CDC guideline.
Accidental Morcellation of Uterine Leiomyosarcoma Influences Relapse Free Survival but Does Not Negatively Influence Overall Survival
Authors: Reichert Verena M. C. , Alwafai Zaher , Zygmunt Marek T. , Vollmer Marcus , Köhler Günter
Published: January 2023

Background: Uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare entity amongst malignant gynaecological tumours and is mostly diagnosed after surgery for benign leiomyoma (LM) of the uterus. As minimal invasive surgery is widely used, the morcellation of LM and the uterus is rather common. As there is little known about the impact of the morcellation of LMS on local and distant metastases, as well as overall survival, we carried out a large-scale retrospective study. Methods: A total of 301 LMS cases from the German Clinical Competence Centre for Genital Sarcomas and Mixed Tumours were analysed. We distinguished morcellated and non-morcellated LMS from pT1 and >pT1 tumours. Fine–Gray competing risks regressions and cumulative incidence rates were computed for the time to local recurrence, distant metastases, and patient death. Results: The recurrence free interval in pT1 LMS was significantly lower in the morcellation group with a 2-year cumulative incidence rate of 49% vs. 26% in non-morcellated LMS (p = 0.001). No differences were seen in >pT1 tumours. Distant metastases were more frequently found in non-morcellated pT1 LMS compared to the morcellated cases (5-year cumulative incidence: 54% vs. 29%, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in time to death between both groups neither in the pT1 stages nor in >pT1 disease. Subdistribution hazard ratios estimated by multivariable competing risks regressions for the morcellation of pT1 LMS were 2.11 for local recurrence (95% CI 1.41–3.16, p < 0.001) and 0.52 for distant metastases (95% CI 0.32–0.84, p = 0.008). Conclusions: Tumour morcellation is not associated with OS for pT1 tumours. The morcellation of pT1 LMS seems to prolong the time to distant metastases whereas local recurrence is more likely to occur after the morcellation of pT1 LMS.
Treatment Courses of Patients Newly Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2012–2018
Authors: Sipilä Jussi
Published: January 2023

Treatment options for multiple sclerosis (MS) are now numerous, but it is unclear which Disease-Modifying Treatment (DMT) is the optimal choice for a given patient. Treatment switches are common, both because of side effects and because of lack of efficacy. There are few data available on the treatment courses of patients newly diagnosed with MS in the current DMT era. All patients newly diagnosed with MS in 2012–2018 at North Karelia Central Hospital were identified (N = 55), and those with complete follow-up data available (N = 43) were included. The minimum follow-up from diagnosis was 44 months with a maximum of 9 years. Seven patients (16%) had no DMT at any time during the follow-up. Treatment was most often initiated with interferon or glatiramer acetate (69%), but 72% of these treatments were discontinued. After cladribine, teriflunomide and fingolimod showed the best treatment persistence. Patients who experienced their first MS symptoms at ≥40 years of age all continued with their initial treatment category until the end of the follow-up. In a third of the patients who had received a DMT, at the end of the follow-up, the treatment had been escalated to fingolimod, cladribine or natalizumab. Only 13 patients (28%) continued with their initial DMT until the end of the follow-up.
Loss of Sour Taste Is the Striking Feature among Four Basic Taste Qualities in Tunisian COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Karmous Inchirah , Sayed Khan Amira , Sahnoun Imen , Ben Othman Rym , Ben Jemaa Houda , Mahjoub Faten , Gamoudi Amel , Douik El Gharbi Leila , Mestiri Tahar , Khan Naim Akhtar , Jamoussi Henda
Published: January 2023

Background: Taste disorders (TDs) have been reported to be very common in patients suffering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In most of the hitherto conducted studies, a gustatory assessment was performed on the basis of surveys or self-reports by patients. The aim of our study was to undertake an objective assessment of four basic taste qualities by conducting tasting sessions that allowed detection thresholds in COVID-19 Tunisian patients and to study their associations with inflammation. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 89 patients aged between 21 to 70 years who had been diagnosed with COVID-19. We used Burghart taste strips to assess taste perception of the four taste qualities, i.e., sour, bitter, sweet, and salty. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured. Results: Taste disorders were reported by 40.4% of the patients, while objective assessments revealed that 63.8% of participants were suffering from hypogeusia and/or ageusia. Sour taste was the most altered (70.8%) gustatory quality. Patients with severe COVID-19 had significantly lower sour and bitter taste scores when compared to patients with minor/moderate forms. There was no significant association between serum inflammatory markers and taste disorders. However, the relationship between bitter and sweet taste qualities and IL-1β levels was significant (p = 0.018 and p = 0.041). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the interest in the objective assessment of taste dysfunctions in COVID-19 patients.
Influence of the Type of Bone Cement Used in Two-Stage Exchange Arthroplasty for Chronic Periarticular Joint Infection on the Spacer Replacement and Reinfection Rate
Authors: Chang Meng-Wei , Wu Cheng-Ta , Yen Shih-Hsiang , Tan Timothy L. , Lin Po-Chun , Kuo Feng-Chih
Published: January 2023

Background: Antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) spacers are used in the first stage when treating periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study aimed to investigate whether a spacer made from commercial ALBC or plain bone cement with additional antibiotics could affect the spacer exchange rate before reimplantation. Methods: Patients undergoing two-stage exchange arthroplasty due to chronic PJI from January 2014 to August 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The exclusion criteria included arthroplasty in the setting of septic arthritis, megaprosthesis, atypical pathogen infection, spacer placement unrelated to PJI, and spacer exchange due to mechanical complications. The patient demographics, brand of cement, and microbiology were recorded manually. The primary outcome was the incidence of spacer exchange due to persistent infection and the secondary outcome was the incidence of reinfection after reimplantation. A multivariate logistic regression analysis and Chi-square test were conducted to identify the effect of cement type on the spacer exchange. Results: A total of 334 patients underwent two-stage exchange arthroplasty for PJI. The spacer exchange rates in the commercial and non-commercial ALBC groups were 6.4% and 25.1%, respectively (p = 0.004). After controlling for confounding factors, there were significant differences between the commercial group and non-commercial groups in the spacer exchange rate (adjusted OR = 0.25; 95% CI = 0.72–0.87, p = 0.029). The use of commercial ALBC was not associated with a lower reinfection rate after reimplantation (p = 0.160). Conclusions: In a two-stage exchange arthroplasty scenario, the spacer comprised of commercial ALBC resulted in a lower spacer exchange rate than the plain bone cement, both of which had additional antibiotics. However, the use of commercial ALBC was not associated with a lower incidence of reinfection following reimplantation.
A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo Control Study on the Effect of a Blood Flow Restriction by an Inflatable Cuff Worn around the Arm on the Wrist Joint Position Sense in Healthy Recreational Athletes
Authors: Królikowska Aleksandra , Kusienicka Klaudia , Lazarek Ewa , Oleksy Łukasz , Prill Robert , Kołcz Anna , Daszkiewicz Maciej , Janczak Dariusz , Reichert Paweł
Published: January 2023

The number of blood flow restriction (BFR) training practitioners is rapidly increasing, so understanding the safety issues associated with limb occlusion is strongly needed. The present study determined the effect of BFR by an inflatable cuff worn around the arm on the wrist joint position sense (JPS) in healthy recreational athletes. In the prospective randomized, double-blind placebo control study, sixty healthy right-handed recreational athletes aged x = 22.93 ± 1.26 years were assigned to groups of equal size and gender rates: BFR, placebo, and control. The active wrist JPS was assessed in two separate sessions using an isokinetic dynamometer. The first assessment was performed with no cuffs. In the second session, a cuff with a standardized pressure was worn on the examined limb in the BFR group. In the placebo group, the cuff was uninflated. A between-session comparison in each group of collected angular errors expressed in degrees was carried out. The angular error in the BFR group was larger during the second measurement than the first one (p = 0.011–0.336). On the contrary, in the placebo (p = 0.241–0.948) and control (p = 0.093–0.904) groups, the error value in the second session was comparable or smaller. It was determined that BFR by an inflatable cuff around the arm impairs the wrist position sense. Hence, BFR training should be performed with caution.
Long Noncoding RNA: A Novel Insight into the Pathogenesis of Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Dutta Saugata , Zhu Yin , Han Yohan , Almuntashiri Sultan , Wang Xiaoyun , Zhang Duo
Published: January 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), represent an acute stage of lung inflammation where the alveolar epithelium loses its functionality. ALI has a devastating impact on the population as it not only has a high rate of incidence, but also has high rates of morbidity and mortality. Due to the involvement of multiple factors, the pathogenesis of ALI is complex and is not fully understood yet. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-protein-coding transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides. Growing evidence has shown that lncRNAs have a decisive role in the pathogenesis of ALI. LncRNAs can either promote or hinder the development of ALI in various cell types in the lungs. Mechanistically, current studies have found that lncRNAs play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of ALI via the regulation of small RNAs (e.g., microRNAs) or downstream proteins. Undoubtedly, lncRNAs not only have the potential to reveal the underlying mechanisms of ALI pathogenesis but also serve as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for the therapy of ALI.
Electrical Field Interactions during Adjacent Electrode Stimulations: eABR Evaluation in Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Guevara Nicolas , Truy Eric , Hoen Michel , Hermann Ruben , Vandersteen Clair , Gallego Stéphane
Published: January 2023

The present study investigates how electrically evoked Auditory Brainstem Responses (eABRs) can be used to measure local channel interactions along cochlear implant (CI) electrode arrays. eABRs were recorded from 16 experienced CI patients in response to electrical pulse trains delivered using three stimulation configurations: (1) single electrode stimulations (E11 or E13); (2) simultaneous stimulation from two electrodes separated by one (En and En+2, E11 and E13); and (3) stimulations from three consecutive electrodes (E11, E12, and E13). Stimulation level was kept constant at 70% electrical dynamic range (EDR) on the two flanking electrodes (E11 and E13) and was varied from 0 to 100% EDR on the middle electrode (E12). We hypothesized that increasing the middle electrode stimulation level would cause increasing local electrical interactions, reflected in characteristics of the evoked compound eABR. Results show that group averaged eABR wave III and V latency and amplitude were reduced when stimulation level at the middle electrode was increased, in particular when stimulation level on E12 reached 40, 70, and 100% EDR. Compound eABRs can provide a detailed individual quantification of electrical interactions occurring at specific electrodes along the CI electrode array. This approach allows a fine determination of interactions at the single electrode level potentially informing audiological decisions regarding mapping of CI systems.
Evaluation of Masticatory Muscles in Adult Patients with Maxillary Hypoplasia Treated with Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (SARME): A Retrospective Study
Authors: Abate Andrea , Lanteri Valentina , Marcolongo Loris , Solimei Luca , Maspero Cinzia
Published: January 2023

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate modifications in electromyographic activity of temporal and masseter muscles before and after surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) in adult subjects. Materials and Methods: Data from 20 patients with unilateral posterior crossbite were selected retrospectively from the Orthodontics Department of the University of Genoa and the Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences of the University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan. Inclusion criteria were set as skeletal class I; adult patients (age > 18); good general health; patients with a transverse maxillary deficiency with unilateral posterior crossbite and maxillary constriction ≥ 5 mm; Superficial electromyographic (EMG) examinations at T0 and T1. Exclusion criteria were smoking, metabolic bone diseases (e.g., hyperparathyroidism, vitamin C deficiency), chronic use of corticoids before or during treatment, parafunctional habits (e.g., bruxism), and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The Shapiro–Wilk test was performed to check whether the data were normally distributed. Differences for each variable before and after SARME were analyzed with a paired t-test (p < 0.05). Results: The statistical analysis demonstrated no statistically significant differences between the EMG values taken before and after SARME regarding the standardized electrical activity of the masticatory muscles (masseter and anterior temporalis (p > 0.05)). Conclusions: Considering the specific conditions of this study, it can be concluded that SARME did not alter the EMG activity of the masseter and temporal muscles. The present study has shown that the masticatory musculature evaluated after approximately 8 months of therapy can adapt well to SARME.
Correlation of ENT Symptoms with Age, Sex, and Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Titer in Plasma
Authors: Kwaśniewska Aleksandra , Kwaśniewski Krzysztof , Skorek Andrzej , Tretiakow Dmitry , Jaźwińska-Curyłło Anna , Burduk Paweł
Published: January 2023

Our objective is to evaluate the correlation between ENT symptom occurrence and antibody titer in convalescent plasma, as well as the influence of age and gender on ENT manifestations of COVID-19. We measured the levels of antibodies in 346 blood donors, who had PCR-confirmed previous infection and met the study inclusion criteria. We recorded otolaryngological symptoms during infection: dry cough, dyspnea, sore throat, smell/taste disturbances, vertigo, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, sudden unilateral loss of hearing, progressive loss of hearing, and tinnitus. In addition, we statistically analyzed the correlation between patients’ antibody levels, symptoms, age, and gender using a chi-square test or Fisher exact test. A p-value less than 0.05 determined statistical significance. The mean age of the convalescents was 39.8 ± 9.56 SD and the median of the measured anti-SARS-CoV2 plasma antibodies was 1:368.5. The most common ENT symptoms were smell/taste disturbances (62.43%), dry cough (40.46%), sore throat (24.86%), and dyspnea (23.7%). Smell and taste disturbances were more frequent in younger patients and the marked antibody titer was lower, which was contrary to a higher antibody titer associated with dry cough, dyspnea, and dizziness. Occurrence of sore throat was not correlated with age, sex, or antibody level. There were no significant differences in otological symptoms in female patients. Gender does not affect the occurrence of ENT symptoms. The symptomatic course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is not always associated with higher levels of antibodies in the blood. The age of the infected patients, unlike gender, affects the occurrence of some ENT symptoms.
The Effects of Body Composition Characteristics on the Functional Disability in Patients with Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Kim Yesull , Lee Chanhong , Oh Hyunji , Son Ji-Seon , Doo Aram
Published: January 2023

Several research studies suggest that obese patients are at a higher risk of developing lumbar spinal disorder, including degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), compared to normal-weight individuals. However, there are few investigations of how obesity affects functional disability in activities of daily living (ADL) in patients who were diagnosed with LSS. This prospective observational study aimed to determine if an association exists between body composition parameters, such as body fat and skeletal muscle, and functional disability in ADL of LSS patients. In the results of the current study, there were significant differences in percent body fat between the mild/moderate and severe disability groups. However, there were no differences in skeletal muscle mass or index between the two groups. Furthermore, we found a positive linear relationship between percent body fat and functional disability in male sex. This study suggests that increased percent body fat predicts potential severe functional disability in ADL in LSS patients. Body composition analysis may provide useful information for predicting the disease severity of various lumbar spinal disorders in clinical practice.
The Risk of Venous Thromboembolism after Thoracolumbar Spine Surgery: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Hao-Wen , Wu Wen-Tien , Wang Jen-Hung , Lin Cheng-Li , Hsu Chung-Yi , Yeh Kuang-Ting
Published: January 2023

Background: Although venous thromboembolism (VTE) is rare, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), it is a catastrophic complication after spinal surgery. This study was aimed to investigate the risk factors and incidence of VTE after thoracolumbar spine surgery (TLSS). Methods: We retrieved the data of 8697 patients >20 years old who underwent TLSS between 2000 and 2013 from Taiwan’s Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000. Each patient was randomly frequency-matched with four individuals who did not undergo TLSS by age, sex, and index year (the control group). Results: The incidence rates of VTE in the TLSS and control groups were 1.84 and 0.69 per 1000 person-years, respectively. The TLSS group had a higher VTE risk (adjusted HR (aHR): 2.13, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.41–3.21), DVT (aHR: 2.20, 95%CI: 1.40–3.46), and PE (aHR: 1.60, 95%CI: 0.68–3.78) than the control group. The correlated risk factors of VTE included older age (50–64 years: aHR: 2.16, 95%CI: 1.14–4.09; ≥65 years: aHR: 3.18, 95%CI: 1.65–6.13), a history of cancer (aHR: 2.96, 95%CI: 1.58–5.54), heart failure (aHR: 2.19, 95%CI: 1.27–3.78), and chronic kidney disease (aHR: 1.83, 95%CI: 1.18–2.83). Conclusions: The overall VTE risk following TLSS was less than 2% but correlated with certain risk factors. This information could help the spine surgeon help the patient prevent this fatal complication.
Sleep Deprivation Increases Facial Skin Yellowness
Authors: Matsubara Akira , Deng Gang , Gong Lili , Chew Eileen , Furue Masutaka , Xu Ying , Fang Bin , Hakozaki Tomohiro
Published: January 2023

Sleep shortage is a major concern in modern life and induces various psycho-physical disorders, including skin problems. In cosmeceutics, females are aware that sleep deprivation worsens their facial skin tone. Here, we measured the effects of sleep deprivation on facial skin yellowness and examined yellow chromophores, such as bilirubin and carotenoids, in blood serum as potential causes of yellowness. Total sleep deprivation (0 h sleep overnight, N = 28) and repeated partial sleep deprivation (4 h sleep for 5 consecutive days, N = 10) induced significant increases in facial skin yellowness. The higher yellowness was sustained even after both sleep deprivation types stopped. However, circulating levels of yellow chromophores were unchanged in the total sleep deprivation study. Neither circulating interleukin-6 nor urinary biopyrrin levels were affected by total sleep deprivation, suggesting that apparent oxidative stress in the body was not detected in the present total deprivation protocol. Facial redness was affected by neither total nor repeated partial sleep deprivation. Therefore, blood circulation may play a limited role in elevated yellowness. In conclusion, facial skin yellowness was indeed increased by sleep deprivation in our clinical studies. Local in situ skin-derived factors, rather than systemic chromophore change, may contribute to the sleep deprivation-induced elevation of facial skin yellowness.
Severe Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy—Potential Mechanism by Which Fetuses Are Protected from the Hazardous Effect of Bile Acids
Authors: Hershkovitz Gal , Raz Yael , Goldinger Ilana , Many Ariel , Hiersch Liran , Eli Rimon
Published: January 2023

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is characterized by elevated total bile acids (TBA). Although elevated maternal TBA is a major risk factors for fetal morbidity and mortality, it is unclear why some fetuses are more prone to the hazardous effect of bile acids (BA) over the others. It is unclear whether fetuses are protected by placental BA uptake, or it is the fetal BA metabolism that reduces fetal BA as compared to maternal levels. Therefore, we aimed to compared TBA levels in the umbilical vein and artery to maternal TBA in women with ICP. The study included 18 women who had TBA > 40 μmol/L and their 23 fetuses. We found that the TBA level in umbilical vein was significantly lower compared to maternal TBA level. The TBA levels in umbilical vein and umbilical artery were similar. No fetus had a serious neonatal complication. Importantly, since TBA level remains low even though maternal TBA level is high the fetuses are protected from the hazardous effects of maternal BA. Our findings suggest that there is no effective metabolism of BA in the fetus and the main decrease in TBA in the fetus is related to placental BA uptake.
Endoscopic Gastric Band Removal
Authors: Manos Thierry , Nedelcu Anamaria , Noel Patrick , Zulian Viola , Danan Marc , Vilallonga Ramon , Carandina Sergio , Nedelcu Marius
Published: January 2023

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) procedures have declined worldwide in recent years. A known complication is the intraluminal erosion of the prosthetic material. The endoscopic management of gastric band erosion represents the recommended approach nowadays, and it avoids any additional trauma to the gastric wall already damaged by the migration. The purpose of our study was to assess the feasibility of endoscopic management for intraluminal gastric band erosion following LAGB. Methods: From January 2009–December 2020, a total of 29 patients were retrospectively reviewed after undergoing endoscopic gastric band removal. The study included all consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic gastric band removal in this period. No patients were excluded from the study. Data on patient demographic characteristics, case history, operative details (procedural time, adverse events), and complications were reviewed retrospectively. Results: Twenty-nine patients underwent endoscopic gastric band removal: 22 women (75.8%) with a mean age of 45 years (range: 28–63) and mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of 31 ± 4.7 kg/m2 (range: 24–41). The average time to the identification of erosion after LAGB was 42 months (range: 28–137). The initial upper endoscopy found a migrated band of more than half of the diameter in 21 cases, less than a half but more than a third in seven cases and in one case, less than a third (use of a stent). Twenty-seven patients were successfully treated with endoscopic removal, and in two cases, the endoscopic approach failed, and laparoscopy was further performed. Conclusions: The endoscopic management of intraluminal erosion after LAGB can be safe and effective and should be considered the procedure of choice when treating this complication. The percentage of the band migration is important for the timing of the endoscopic removal.
Day -1 CD34+ Cells and Platelet Count Predict the Number of Apheresis in Poor-Mobilizer Patients Rescued by Plerixafor
Authors: Valentini Caterina Giovanna , Pellegrino Claudio , Putzulu Rossana , Bonanni Matteo , Massini Giuseppina , Orlando Nicoletta , Forni Franca , Bianchi Maria , Piccirillo Nicola , Teofili Luciana
Published: January 2023

Plerixafor is widely used as up-front treatment with G-CSF to enhance peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell output in patients failing previous mobilizations. Less frequently, plerixafor is used to rescue an unsatisfactory mobilization following chemotherapy (CT) and G-CSF. This study investigates if pre-collection factors affect the CD34+ cell harvest in chemotherapy and G-CSF mobilizations rescued by plerixafor. Clinical and hematological data relative to patients, mobilization, and apheresis products were retrospectively examined. The outcome was completing a target cell dose ≥ 2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg at first apheresis. The effect exerted on the outcome by patient- and disease-related factors was investigated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The analysis included data from 42 patients affected by hematological (39 patients) and non-hematological malignancies (three patients). Twenty-nine patients (69%) attained the target cell dose at first apheresis. Twelve out of the remaining 13 patients received an additional plerixafor administration, and all accomplished the transplant dose at a second apheresis procedure. Day -1 CD34+ PB count (OR1.46, 95% CI 1.1–1.9, p = 0.008) and platelet count (OR1.0, 95% CI 1.0–1.0, p = 0.033) predicted the achievement of the target dose at first apheresis, independently of pre-mobilization CT, radiation therapy, and disease status at mobilization. At ROC curve analysis, the best cut-off value predicting the successful collection at first apheresis was 7.5/µL for Day -1 CD34+ cell count (AUC 0.830, 0.69 sensitivity, and 0.92 specificity) and 75 × 109/L for Day -1 platelet count (AUC = 0.736, 0.65 sensitivity and 0.85 specificity). In conclusion, on-demand plerixafor rescue allows a successful stem cell collection, irrespectively of disease type and status, prior CT lines, and radiation exposure. Pre-apheresis CD34+ cells and platelet count predict the need for one or two aphereses.
Improved Wear and Corrosion Resistance in TiC-Reinforced SUS304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Lu Chieh-Jung , Yeh Jien-Wei
Published: January 2023

Herein, the vacuum arc-melting process is applied to incorporate various amounts of Ti and C into SUS304 austenitic stainless steel based on the high-entropy alloy concept to obtain wear- and corrosion-resistant alloys with in situ carbide reinforcements. Five compositions containing the equivalent of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 volume percentages of TiC in SUS304 stainless steel, named A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5, respectively, were designed, melted, and solidified by the arc-melting method. Microstructural analyses, hardness measurements, immersion tests in four corrosive solutions, electrochemical measurements in a 3.5 wt % NaCl(aq) solution, and tribological tests were conducted to determine the properties and explain the relevant mechanisms. A1 exhibited a eutectic structure between FCC dendrites, while A2, A3, A4, and A5 possessed proeutectic dendritic TiC, FCC dendrites enveloping the TiC dendrites, and a eutectic structure. A5 represents the optimal composition. Its hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance are 2, 14, and 4 times higher than those of SUS304, respectively. Additionally, its wear resistance is 2.5 times that of high-chromium cast iron. Consequently, A5 could have a 2.5-fold longer lifetime in wear operation. Therefore, A5 could be potentially applied in corrosive and abrasive environments, such as rotary shafts, rotors, bearings, and structural parts in food, chemical, and optoelectronic industries.
A Novel Hydrophilic, Antibacterial Chitosan-Based Coating Prepared by Ultrasonic Atomization Assisted LbL Assembly Technique
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Zhou Yuyang , Johnson Melissa , Milne Cameron , A Sigen , Li Yening , Wang Wenxin , Zhang Nan , Xu Qian
Published: January 2023

To explore the potential applicability of chitosan (CTS), we prepared aldehyde chitosan (CTS-CHO) with chitosan and sodium periodate via oxidation reaction and then a chitosan-based hydrophilic and antibacterial coating on the surface of poly (lactic acid) (PLA) film was developed and characterized. The oxidation degree was determined by Elemental analyser to be 12.53%, and a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the structure of CTS-CHO. It was evident that CTS-CHO is a biocompatible coating biomaterial with more than 80% cell viability obtained through the Live/Dead staining assay and the alamarBlue assay. The hydrophilic and antibacterial CTS-CHO coating on the PLA surface was prepared by ultrasonic atomization assisted LbL assembly technique due to Schiff’s base reaction within and between layers. The CTS-CHO coating had better hydrophilicity and transparency, a more definite industrialization potential, and higher antibacterial activity at experimental concentrations than the CTS coating. All of the results demonstrated that the ultrasonic atomization-assisted LbL assembly CTS-CHO coating is a promising alternative for improving hydrophilicity and antibacterial activity on the PLA surface. The functional groups of CTS-CHO could react with active components with amino groups via dynamic Schiff’s base reaction and provide the opportunity to create a drug releasing surface for biomedical applications.
Icariin: A Promising Natural Product in Biomedicine and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Seyedi Zahra , Amiri Mohammad Sadegh , Mohammadzadeh Vahideh , Hashemzadeh Alireza , Haddad-Mashadrizeh Aliakbar , Mashreghi Mohammad , Qayoomian Mohsen , Hashemzadeh Mohammad Reza , Simal-Gandara Jesus , Taghavizadeh Yazdi Mohammad Ehsan
Published: January 2023

Among scaffolds used in tissue engineering, natural biomaterials such as plant-based materials show a crucial role in cellular function due to their biocompatibility and chemical indicators. Because of environmentally friendly behavior and safety, green methods are so important in designing scaffolds. A key bioactive flavonoid of the Epimedium plant, Icariin (ICRN), has a broad range of applications in improving scaffolds as a constant and non-immunogenic material, and in stimulating the cell growth, differentiation of chondrocytes as well as differentiation of embryonic stem cells towards cardiomyocytes. Moreover, fusion of ICRN into the hydrogel scaffolds or chemical crosslinking can enhance the secretion of the collagen matrix and proteoglycan in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. To scrutinize, in various types of cancer cells, ICRN plays a decisive role through increasing cytochrome c secretion, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase as well as caspase stimulations. Surprisingly, ICRN can induce apoptosis, reduce viability and inhibit proliferation of cancer cells, and repress tumorigenesis as well as metastasis. Moreover, cancer cells no longer grow by halting the cell cycle at two checkpoints, G0/G1 and G2/M, through the inhibition of NF-κB by ICRN. Besides, improving nephrotoxicity occurring due to cisplatin and inhibiting multidrug resistance are the other applications of this biomaterial.
Numerical Investigation on the Hydrodynamic Response of Pentamaran—Resistance Analysis of Different Outrigger Inclination Angles
Authors: Hu Pengwei , Cui Ying , Zhao Chenyu , Li Yanan , Li Boyang
Published: January 2023

Due to the interference between the main hull and the outrigger of the pentamaran, resistance is greatly affected. Therefore, research on the pentamaran front outrigger inclination angle has further practical significance for reducing resistance. In this study, the pentamaran front outrigger inclination angle was analyzed by CFD method, the ship motion in waves was simulated by overlapping grid technology, and the resistance of the pentamaran in static water and waves was predicted by using the unsteady RANS equation. First, a series of validation studies were carried out for the numerical methods used in the study. Then, the influence of the front outrigger inclination angle on the pentamaran resistance performance under different working conditions is calculated and discussed. In order to analyze the influence of the change of the front outrigger inclination angle on the resistance, free surface wave-making and hull pressure are further discussed. The results show that the influence of the front outrigger inclination angle change on the resistance of the pentamaran has a certain rule, and the resistance of the pentamaran can be reduced by adjusting the front outrigger inclination angle.
Numerical Evaluation of the Wave-Making Resistance of a Zero-Emission Fast Passenger Ferry Operating in Shallow Water by Using the Double-Body Approach
Authors: Duman Suleyman , Boulougouris Evangelos , Aung Myo Zin , Xu Xue , Nazemian Amin
Published: January 2023

The consideration of shallow water effects has gained in importance regarding inland operations. The interaction between the keel and the riverbed affects the hydrodynamic characteristics of marine vessels. The highly complex nature of the interference phenomenon in catamarans makes the shallow water problem more complicated as compared to monohulls. Hence, catamarans are very sensitive to speed changes, as well as to other parameters, such as the shallow water effects. This makes the design of catamarans more challenging than their monohull equivalents. At lower Froude numbers, the higher importance of the frictional resistance makes the greater wetted surface of the catamaran a disadvantage. However, at higher speeds, there is the potential to turn their twin hulls into an advantage. This study aims to investigate the wave-making resistance of a zero-carbon fast passenger ferry operating in shallow water. The URANS (unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes) method was employed for resistance simulations. Then, the double-body approach was followed to decompose the residual resistance into viscous pressure and wave-making resistance with the help of the form factors of the vessel calculated at each speed. The characteristics of the separated wave-making resistance components were obtained, covering low, medium, and high speeds. Significant findings have been reported that contribute to the field by providing insight into the resistance components of a fast catamaran operating in shallow waters.
Deep Learning-Based Ship Speed Prediction for Intelligent Maritime Traffic Management
Authors: El Mekkaoui Sara , Benabbou Loubna , Caron Stéphane , Berrado Abdelaziz
Published: January 2023

Improving maritime operations planning and scheduling can play an important role in enhancing the sector’s performance and competitiveness. In this context, accurate ship speed estimation is crucial to ensure efficient maritime traffic management. This study addresses the problem of ship speed prediction from a Maritime Vessel Services perspective in an area of the Saint Lawrence Seaway. The challenge is to build a real-time predictive model that accommodates different routes and vessel types. This study proposes a data-driven solution based on deep learning sequence methods and historical ship trip data to predict ship speeds at different steps of a voyage. It compares three different sequence models and shows that they outperform the baseline ship speed rates used by the VTS. The findings suggest that deep learning models combined with maritime data can leverage the challenge of estimating ship speed. The proposed solution could provide accurate and real-time estimations of ship speed to improve shipping operational efficiency, navigation safety and security, and ship emissions estimation and monitoring.