bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flagellin-Induced Immune Response in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Yuecel Goekhan , Zhou Xiaobo , Terkatz Linda , Wendel Angela , Reinhardt Julius , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Sattler Katherine , Cyganek Lukas , Utikal Jochen , Langer Harald , Scharf Ruediger , Duerschmied Daniel , Akin Ibrahim
Published: September 2023

Pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) are involved in the pathogenesis of septic cardiomyopathy through a toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated immune response. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) can reflect the innate immune abilities of cardiomyocytes. Therefore, hiPSC-CMs may provide an attractive tool with which to study PAMP-induced alterations in cardiomyocytes. HiPSC-CMs from two different healthy donors were exposed to the PAMP flagellin (FLA) at different doses and exposure times. Alterations in the expression levels of distinct inflammation-associated cytokines, intracellular inflammation pathways including TLR5 downstream signaling, reactive oxygen species levels and surface antigen composition were assessed using PCR, ELISA and FACS techniques. Higher doses of flagellin increased the expression levels of inflammation-associated cytokines like TNFα (p < 0.01) and downstream signaling molecules like caspase-8 (p < 0.05). TLR5 expression (p < 0.01) and TLR5 fluorescence proportion (p < 0.05) increased in hiPSC-CMs after prolonged FLA exposure. FLA-induced innate immune response processes in cardiomyocytes might be detectable with an hiPSC-CMs-based in vitro model.
Remodeling of Tumor Microenvironment by Nanozyme Combined cGAS–STING Signaling Pathway Agonist for Enhancing Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Dong Wenpei , Chen Mengting , Chang Chun , Jiang Tao , Su Li , Chen Changpo , Zhang Guisheng
Published: September 2023

Nanozymes and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway, as powerful organons, can remodel the tumor microenvironment (TME) to increase efficacy and overcome drug resistance in cancer immunotherapy. Nanozymes have the potential to manipulate the TME by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to positive oxidative stress in tumor cells. Cyclic dinucleotide (2′,3′-cGAMP), as a second messenger, exists in the TME and can regulate it to achieve antitumor activity. In this work, Co,N-doped carbon dots (CoNCDs) were used as a model nanozyme to evaluate the properties of the anti-tumor mechanism, and effective inhibition of S180 tumor was achieved. Based on CoNCDs’ good biocompatibility and therapeutic effect on the tumor, we then introduced the cGAS–STING agonist, and the combination of the CoNCDs and STING agonist significantly inhibited tumor growth, and no significant systemic toxicity was observed. The combined system achieved the enhanced tumor synergistic immunotherapy through TME reprogramming via the peroxidase-like activity of the CoNCDs and cGAS–STING signaling pathway agonist synergistically. Our work provides not only a new effective way to reprogram TME in vivo, but also a promising synergic antitumor therapy strategy.
Methacrylated Gelatin as a Scaffold for Mechanically Isolated Stromal Vascular Fraction for Cutaneous Wound Repair
Authors: Vasella Mauro , Arnke Kevin , Dranseikiene Dalia , Guzzi Elia , Melega Francesca , Reid Gregory , Klein Holger Jan , Schweizer Riccardo , Tibbitt Mark W. , Kim Bong-Sung
Published: September 2023

Mechanically processed stromal vascular fraction (mSVF) is a highly interesting cell source for regenerative purposes, including wound healing, and a practical alternative to enzymatically isolated SVF. In the clinical context, SVF benefits from scaffolds that facilitate viability and other cellular properties. In the present work, the feasibility of methacrylated gelatin (GelMA), a stiffness-tunable, light-inducible hydrogel with high biocompatibility is investigated as a scaffold for SVF in an in vitro setting. Lipoaspirates from elective surgical procedures were collected and processed to mSVF and mixed with GelMA precursor solutions. Non-encapsulated mSVF served as a control. Viability was measured over 21 days. Secreted basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) levels were measured on days 1, 7 and 21 by ELISA. IHC was performed to detect VEGF-A, perilipin-2, and CD73 expression on days 7 and 21. The impact of GelMA-mSVF on human dermal fibroblasts was measured in a co-culture assay by the same viability assay. The viability of cultured GelMA-mSVF was significantly higher after 21 days (p < 0.01) when compared to mSVF alone. Also, GelMA-mSVF secreted stable levels of bFGF over 21 days. While VEGF-A was primarily expressed on day 21, perilipin-2 and CD73-positive cells were observed on days 7 and 21. Finally, GelMA-mSVF significantly improved fibroblast viability as compared with GelMA alone (p < 0.01). GelMA may be a promising scaffold for mSVF as it maintains cell viability and proliferation with the release of growth factors while facilitating adipogenic differentiation, stromal cell marker expression and fibroblast proliferation.
Pregnancy by Oocyte Donation: Reviewing Fetal–Maternal Risks and Complications
Authors: Silvestris Erica , Petracca Easter Anna , Mongelli Michele , Arezzo Francesca , Loizzi Vera , Gaetani Maria , Nicolì Pierpaolo , Damiani Gianluca Raffaello , Cormio Gennaro
Published: September 2023

Oocyte donation (OD) has greatly improved over the last three decades, becoming a preferred practice of assisted reproductive technology (ART) for infertile women wishing for motherhood. Through OD, indeed, it has become possible to overcome the physiological limitation due to the ovarian reserve (OR) exhaustion as well as the poor gamete reliability which parallels the increasing age of women. However, despite the great scientific contribution related to the success of OD in the field of infertility, this practice seems to be associated with a higher rate of major risky events during pregnancy as recurrent miscarriage, infections and placental diseases including gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia and post-partum hemorrhage, as well as several maternal–fetal complications due to gametes manipulation and immune system interaction. Here, we will revisit this questioned topic since a number of studies in the medical literature focus on the successful aspects of the OD procedure in terms of pregnancy rate without, however, neglecting the risks and complications potentially linked to external manipulation or heterologous implantation.
Live Detection of Intracellular Chitin in Butterfly Wing Epithelial Cells In Vivo Using Fluorescent Brightener 28: Implications for the Development of Scales and Color Patterns
Authors: Nakazato Yugo , Otaki Joji M.
Published: September 2023

Chitin is the major component of the extracellular cuticle and plays multiple roles in insects. In butterflies, chitin builds wing scales for structural colors. Here, we show that intracellular chitin in live cells can be detected in vivo with fluorescent brightener 28 (FB28), focusing on wing epithelial cells of the small lycaenid butterfly Zizeeria maha immediately after pupation. A relatively small number of cells at the apical surface of the epithelium were strongly FB28-positive in the cytosol and seemed to have extensive ER-Golgi networks, which may be specialized chitin-secreting cells. Some cells had FB28-positive tadpole-tail-like or rod-like structures relative to the nucleus. We detected FB28-positive hexagonal intracellular objects and their associated structures extending toward the apical end of the cell, which may be developing scale bases and shafts. We also observed FB28-positive fibrous intracellular structures extending toward the basal end. Many cells were FB28-negative in the cytosol, which contained FB28-positive dots or discs. The present data are crucial to understanding the differentiation of the butterfly wing epithelium, including scale formation and color pattern determination. The use of FB28 in probing intracellular chitin in live cells may be applicable to other insect systems.
Effects of Food Source Availability, Host Egg:Parasitoid Ratios, and Host Exposure Times on the Developmental Biology of Megacopta cribraria Egg Parasitoids
Authors: Warsi Sanower , Chicas-Mosier Ana M. , Balusu Rammohan R. , Jacobson Alana L. , Fadamiro Henry Y.
Published: September 2023

Parasitoids forage for hosts in dynamic ecosystems and generally have a short period of time to access hosts. The current study examined the optimal reproductive attributes of two egg parasitoids, Paratelenomus saccharalis Dodd (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) and Ooencyrtus nezarae Ishii (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), of the kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria Fabricius (Hemiptera: Plataspidae). The proportion of O. nezarae and P. saccharalis adult offspring that emerged from M. cribraria eggs and the sex ratio of the parasitoid offspring were compared among treatments for the effects of different adult parasitoid food sources, host egg-to-adult parasitoid ratios, and host exposure times. Our results suggest that honey solution as a food source, a 21:7 host-to-parasitoid ratio, and three-to-five days of exposure time optimized the production of female O. nezarae offspring. For P. saccharalis, honey solution as a food source, a 21:7 host-to-parasitoid ratio, and one day were optimal for maximizing female offspring production. These findings provide new information about the biology of these egg parasitoids.
Orthostatic Stress and Baroreflex Sensitivity: A Window into Autonomic Dysfunction in Lone Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ferreira Mónica , Laranjo Sérgio , Cunha Pedro , Geraldes Vera , Oliveira Mário , Rocha Isabel
Published: September 2023

The abnormal neural control of atria has been considered one of the mechanisms of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) pathogenesis. The baroreceptor reflex has an important role in cardiovascular regulation and may serve as an index of autonomic function. This study aimed to analyze the baroreceptor reflex’s role in heart rate regulation during upright tilt (HUT) in patients with lone PAF. The study included 68 patients with lone PAF and 34 healthy individuals who underwent baroreflex assessment. Parameters such as baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), number of systolic blood pressure (BP) ramps, and the baroreflex effectiveness index (BEI) were evaluated. The study found that PAF patients had comparable resting BPs and heart rates (HRs) to healthy individuals. However, unlike healthy individuals, PAF patients showed a sustained increase in BP with an upright posture followed by the delayed activation of the baroreceptor function with a blunted HR response and lower BEI values. This indicates a pronounced baroreflex impairment in PAF patients, even at rest. Our data suggest that together with BRS, BEI could be used as a marker of autonomic dysfunction in PAF patients, making it important to further investigate its relationship with AF recurrence after ablation and its involvement in cardiovascular autonomic remodeling.
Extended Distal Pancreatectomy for Cancer of the Body and Tail of the Pancreas: Analysis of Early and Late Results
Authors: Sperti Cosimo , Serafini Simone , Friziero Alberto , Todisco Matteo , Tamponi Giulia , Bassi Domenico , Belluzzi Amanda
Published: September 2023

Cancer of the body-tail of the pancreas often involves adjacent structures. Thus, surgical treatment may be extended to other organs or vessels in order to achieve radical resection. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of extended distal pancreatectomy for ductal adenocarcinoma of the body and tail of the pancreas. Between January 2000 and December 2016, 101 patients underwent distal pancreatectomy (DP) for pancreatic cancer: 65 patients underwent standard-DP and 36 extended-DP, including the resection of the partial stomach (n = 12), adrenal gland (n = 7), liver (n = 7), colon (n = 8), celiac axis (n = 6), portal vein (n = 5), jejunum (n = 4) and kidney (n = 4). The two groups were compared in terms of their TNM classification, pathological grade, nodal status, state of resection margins, age, sex and levels of preoperative serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19.9). The morbidity and mortality were not statistically different in the two groups. The two groups disease-free and overall survival rates were significantly influenced by the tumor’s stage, nodal status, pathological features and resection margins. Survival was not influenced by the extent of the surgical resection. However, when patients were stratified according to the type of extended resection, survival was worse in the group of patients undergoing vascular resection. Multivariate analysis showed that the stage and resection margins are independent predictors of disease-free and overall survival. Extended distal pancreatectomy may be performed with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. Survival is not significantly different after standard or extended resection. However, the rate of tumor recurrence is high, and long-term survival is a rare event, especially in those patients who undergo distal pancreatectomy associated with vascular resection.
Psychological Factors Influencing Adherence to NIV in Neuromuscular Patients Dependent on Non Invasive Mechanical Ventilation: Preliminary Results
Authors: Annunziata Anna , Calabrese Cecilia , Simioli Francesca , Coppola Antonietta , Pierucci Paola , Mariniello Domenica Francesca , Fiorentino Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

Background: Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is associated with improvement of both morbility and mortality in patients affected by neuromuscular diseases with chronic respiratory failure. Several studies have also shown that long-term NIV positively impacts the patient’s quality of life and perception of disease status. Its effectiveness is likely related to the adherence to NIV. Several factors, patient- and not patient-related, may compromise adherence to NIV, such as physical, behavioral, familiar, and social issues. Few data are currently available on the role of psychological factors in influencing NIV adherence. Materials and methods: In this pilot study, we evaluated the adherence to NIV in a group of 15 adult patients with neuromuscular diseases (Duchenne muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in relation to their grade of depression assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaire. Other data were collected, such as clinical features (age and sex), use of anxiolytic drugs, the presence of a family or professional caregiver, the quality of patient–physician relationship, the beginning of psychological support after BDI screening, and the family acceptance of NIV. NIV adherence was definied as the use of NIV for at least 4 h per night on 70% of nights in a month. Results: The overall rate of NIV adherence was 60%. Based on the BDI questionnaire, patients who were non-adherent to NIV had a higher rate of depression, mainly observed in the oldest patients. The acceptance of NIV by the family and positive physician–patient interaction seem to favor NIV adherence. Conclusion: Depression can interfere with NIV adherence in patients with neuromuscolar diseases.
A Comparison of Single Dimension and Volume Measurements in the Risk Stratification of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions
Authors: Ryoo Da Yeon , Koehler Bryn , Rath Jennifer , Shah Zarine K. , Chen Wei , Esnakula Ashwini K. , Hart Phil A. , Krishna Somashekar G.
Published: September 2023

The incidence of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) has been rising due to improvements in imaging. Of these, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are the most common and are thought to contribute to almost 20% of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. All major society guidelines for the management of IPMNs use size defined by maximum diameter as the primary determinant of whether surveillance or surgical resection is recommended. However, there is no consensus on how these measurements should be obtained or whether a single imaging modality is superior. Furthermore, the largest diameter may fail to capture the complexity of PCLs, as most are not perfectly spherical. This article reviews current PCL measurement techniques in CT, MRI, and EUS and posits volume as a possible alternative to the largest diameter.
Similarities and Differences in the Management of Patients with Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures and Those with Rebound-Associated Vertebral Fractures Following Discontinuation of Denosumab
Authors: Anastasilakis Athanasios D. , Makras Polyzois , Paccou Julien , Bisbinas Ilias , Polyzos Stergios A. , Papapoulos Socrates E.
Published: September 2023

Rebound-associated vertebral fractures (RVFx) following denosumab discontinuation are typically multiple, are commonly associated with acute sharp pain, increase the risk of imminent fractures, and are pathogenetically different from common osteoporotic vertebral fractures (VFx). A clinically relevant question is whether patients with RVFx should be managed differently from patients with osteoporotic VFx. To address this question, we performed a systematic search of the PubMed database, and we reviewed current evidence on the optimal management of patients with RVFx. For pain relief of patients with RVFx, potent analgesics, often opioids, are essential. Information on the effectiveness of braces in these patients is scarce. Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are strongly contraindicated as they confer a substantial risk for new VFx. Exercise may be helpful, but again evidence is lacking. In contrast to patients with osteoporotic VFx, in whom initial treatment with bone-forming agents is recommended, patients with RVFx should initiate treatment with potent antiresorptives. To summarize, patients who have sustained RVFx following denosumab discontinuation are at a very high risk for new fractures, especially VFx. The management of such patients requires a multidisciplinary approach that should not be restricted to pain relief and administration of antiosteoporotic medication, but should also include back protection, early mobilization, and appropriate exercise.
Initial Experiences with the Envoy Acclaim® Fully Implanted Cochlear Implant
Authors: Dornhoffer James R. , Lawlor Skye K. , Saoji Aniket A. , Driscoll Colin L. W.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Cochlear implantation has become the standard of care for the treatment of moderate-to-profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. However, current technologies, all of which rely on an external sound processor, have intrinsic limitations that prevent certain activities and diagnostics, thus hampering full integration into a patient’s lifestyle. The Envoy Medical (White Bear Lake, MN, USA) Acclaim® fully implanted cochlear implant is a new device currently undergoing testing that has been designed to alleviate many of the current constraints by housing all components within the patient, thus allowing for near-constant use in many environments that are not conducive to a traditional cochlear implant. Methods: As part of an Early Feasibility Study, three adult implant candidates were implanted with the Acclaim® cochlear implant. Surgical video and photography were taken, and initial observations were recorded. Implantation with the Acclaim® device is largely similar to a traditional cochlear implant, with modifications to allow room for the implanted sensor as well as the implantation of a battery in the subcutaneous tissues of the chest. Results: This study demonstrates a step-by-step overview of implanting the Acclaim® and discusses initial insight and experiences with the first three implantations with this new device. Conclusions: All three surgeries proceeded without complication, and at activation, all three patients were hearing through their devices. Surgery is more technically challenging compared to a standard cochlear implant, but the skills needed can all be mastered by a dedicated otologic surgeon.
Promising Novel Therapies in the Treatment of Aortic and Visceral Aneurysms
Authors: Stougiannou Theodora M. , Christodoulou Konstantinos C. , Georgakarakos Efstratios , Mikroulis Dimitrios , Karangelis Dimos
Published: September 2023

Aortic and visceral aneurysms affect large arterial vessels, including the thoracic and abdominal aorta, as well as visceral arterial branches, such as the splenic, hepatic, and mesenteric arteries, respectively. Although these clinical entities have not been equally researched, it seems that they might share certain common pathophysiological changes and molecular mechanisms. The yet limited published data, with regard to newly designed, novel therapies, could serve as a nidus for the evaluation and potential implementation of such treatments in large artery aneurysms. In both animal models and clinical trials, various novel treatments have been employed in an attempt to not only reduce the complications of the already implemented modalities, through manufacturing of more durable materials, but also to regenerate or replace affected tissues themselves. Cellular populations like stem and differentiated vascular cell types, large diameter tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs), and various molecules and biological factors that might target aspects of the pathophysiological process, including cell-adhesion stabilizers, metalloproteinase inhibitors, and miRNAs, could potentially contribute significantly to the treatment of these types of aneurysms. In this narrative review, we sought to collect and present relevant evidence in the literature, in an effort to unveil promising biological therapies, possibly applicable to the treatment of aortic aneurysms, both thoracic and abdominal, as well as visceral aneurysms.
Frequent Follow-Up of Delisted Liver Transplant Candidates Is Necessary: An Observational Study about Characteristics and Outcomes of Delisted Liver Transplant Candidates
Authors: Payani Elnaz , Koliogiannis Dionysios , Schoenberg Markus , Koch Dominik , Eser-Valeri Daniela , Denk Gerald , Rehm Markus , Schäfer Simon , Ehmer Ursula , Kremer Andreas , Meiser Bruno , Werner Jens , Guba Markus , Börner Nikolaus
Published: September 2023

This observational study focuses on the characteristics and survival of patients taken off of the liver transplant waiting list. Assessment of post-delisting survival and a frequent follow-up of patients after delisting are important keys to improve the survival rate of patients with liver failure after being delisted. Within this study, delisted liver transplant candidates were divided into the following groups: (1) “too good” (54%) or (2) “too sick” (22%) for transplantation, (3) adherence issues (12%) or (4) therapy goal changed (11%). The 5-year survival after delisting within these groups was 84%, 9%, 50%, and 68%, respectively. Less than 3% of the delisted patients had to be relisted again. The clinical expert decision of the multidisciplinary transplant team was sufficiently accurate to differentiate between patients requiring liver transplantation and those who were delisted after a stable recovery of liver function. The assessment of post-delisting survival may serve as a complementary metric to assess differences in center practices and to estimate cumulative post-delisting mortality risk.
Arterial Blood Pressure Features of Hypertensive Patients with Typical and Atypical 460 nm Skin Fluorescence Response to Transient Ischaemia
Authors: Pawlak-Chomicka Regina , Uruski Paweł , Krauze Tomasz , Piskorski Jarosław , Tykarski Andrzej , Guzik Przemysław
Published: September 2023

Flow-mediated skin fluorescence (FMSF) at 460 nm is a non-invasive method for assessing dynamic changes in the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and microcirculation in forearm skin under varying conditions of tissue perfusion. Typically, fluorescence increases during ischaemia, but atypical cases show a temporary signal decrease instead of a constant increase. This study aimed to explore the clinical implications of atypical FMSF patterns in patients with newly diagnosed untreated hypertension. NADH fluorescence and pulse wave analysis were performed on 65 patients. Differences in peripheral and arterial pulse pressure profiles were examined based on FMSF curve courses. Patients with atypical curve courses had significantly (p < 0.05 or lower for all) higher heart rate, peripheral and central diastolic pressure, tension time index, central rate pressure product, shorter diastole duration, and reservoir pressure–time integral. Hypertensive patients with atypical FMSF signals had less advantageous blood pressure profiles. Although the underlying factors causing these symptoms are unknown, the atypical FMSF pattern may reflect increased sympathetic stimulation and vascular resistance. The visual assessment of the FMSF curve may have important clinical implications that deserve further investigation.
Pregnancy Zone Protein as an Emerging Biomarker for Cardiovascular Risk in Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chen Wei-Ling , Liao Wei-Ting , Hsu Chien-Ning , Tain You-Lin
Published: September 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity among children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The causes of pediatric CKD differ from those in adults, as congenital anomalies in the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are the leading causes in childhood. Identifying ideal markers of CVD risk early is crucial for CKD children to improve their care. Previously, we screened differentially expressed proteins in CKD children with or without blood pressure (BP) abnormalities and identified pregnancy zone protein (PZP). In 106 children and adolescents with CKD stages G1–G4, we analyzed plasma PZP concentration. The associations between PZP and ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) profile, parameters of cardiac and carotid ultrasounds, indices of arterial stiffness, and nitric oxide (NO) parameters were determined. We observed that PZP positively correlated with arterial stiffness indices, beta index, and pulse wave velocity in CAKUT. CKD children with abnormalities in ABPM and night dipping displayed a higher PZP concentration than those without. Additionally, the PZP level was positively correlated with NO bioavailability. In conclusion, our results suggest PZP has differential influences on cardiovascular risk in CAKUT and non-CAKUT children. Identification of this relationship is novel in the pediatric CKD literature.
Epidemiology and Diagnosis of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Qualitative Synthesis with a Systematic Review
Authors: Mangwani Jitendra , Roberts Veronica , Shannak Odei , Divall Pip , Srinivasan Ananth , Dias Joseph
Published: September 2023

Background: Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a common and debilitating sequela of lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT). There is significant heterogeneity in reported PTS incidence due to lack of standardised diagnostic criteria. This review aimed to develop diagnostic criteria for PTS and subsequently refine the reported incidence and severity. Methods: PRISMA principles were followed; however, the review was not registered. The Cochrane CENTRAL database, MEDLINE, Embase, the NHS NICE Healthcare Databases Advanced Search interface, and trial registers including isrctn.com and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for studies addressing areas of interest (PTS definition, epidemiology, assessment). An experienced Clinical Librarian undertook the systematic searches, and two independent reviewers agreed on the relevance of the papers. Conflicts were resolved through panel review. Evidence quality was assessed using a modified Coleman scoring system and weighted according to their relevance to the aforementioned areas of interest. Results: A total of 339 abstracts were retrieved. A total of 33 full-text papers were included in this review. Following qualitative analysis, four criteria were proposed to define PTS: (1) a proven thrombotic event on radiological assessment; (2) a minimum 24-month follow-up period after an index DVT; (3) assessment with a validated score; and (4) evidence of progression of venous insufficiency from baseline. Four papers conformed to our PTS definition criteria, and the incidence of mild to moderate PTS ranged from 7 to 36%. On reviewing the studies which utilised the recommended Villalta scale, PTS incidence narrowed further to 23–36%. Incidence and severity reached a plateau at 24 months. Conclusions: Four diagnostic criteria were developed from qualitative synthesis. When these criteria were applied to the literature, the range of reported PTS incidence narrowed. These four criteria may standardise PTS diagnosis in future studies, facilitating the pooling of data for meta-analysis and synthesis of higher levels of evidence.
The Influence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Acute Myocardial Infarction Outcomes
Authors: Hrycek Eugeniusz , Walawska-Hrycek Anna , Hamankiewicz Maciej , Milewski Krzysztof , Nowakowski Przemysław , Buszman Piotr , Żurakowski Aleksander
Published: September 2023

Background: This multicenter retrospective study with a control group was designed to assess the influence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on the outcomes of patients with myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: A total of 129 patients with COVID-19 who were treated for MI were included in this study. The control group comprised 129 comparable patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection. The in-hospital, out-of-hospital, and overall mortality were analyzed. Results: A total of thirty-one (24%) patients died in the study group, and two (1.6%) patients died in the control group (OR = 20.09; CI: 4.69–85.97; p < 0.001). Similar results were observed in all analyzed patient subgroups. Multivariable Cox regression analysis confirmed the significant influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection on in-hospital outcomes (HR: 8.48459; CI: 1.982–36.320; p = 0.004). Subanalysis of the groups with COVID-19 plus ST-elevation MI (STEMI) or non-ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI) revealed comparable mortality rates: 14 (21.12%) patients in the NSTEMI group and 17 (26.98%) patients in the STEMI subgroup died (OR: 1.3; CI: 0.56–3.37; p = 0.45). During out-of-hospital observation, no differences in mortality were observed (OR: 0.77; CI: 0.11–4.07; p = 0.73). Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 infection affects the in-hospital outcomes of patients with both MI and COVID-19, regardless of MI type (STEMI vs. NSTEMI).
The Effects of BCDs in Unilateral Conductive Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Xin-Yue , Ren Liu-Jie , Xie You-Zhou , Fu Yao-Yao , Zhu Ya-Ying , Li Chen-Long , Zhang Tian-Yu
Published: September 2023

Bone conduction devices (BCDs) are widely used in the treatment of conductive hearing loss (CHL), but their applications on unilateral CHL (UCHL) patients remain controversial. To evaluate the effects of BCDs in UCHL, a systematic search was undertaken until May 2023 following the PRISMA guidelines. Among the 391 references, 21 studies met the inclusion criteria and were ultimately selected for review. Data on hearing thresholds, speech recognition, sound localization, and subjective questionnaire outcomes were collected and summarized. Moderate hearing threshold improvements were found in UCHL patients aided with BCDs. Their speech recognition abilities improved significantly. However, sound localization results showed wide individual variations. According to subjective questionnaires, BCDs had an overall positive influence on the daily life of UCHL patients, although several unfavorable experiences were reported by some of them. We concluded that the positive audiological benefits and subjective questionnaire results have made BCDs a credible intervention for UCHL patients. Before final implantations, UCHL patients should first go through a period of time when they were fitted with non-implantable BCDs as a trial.
Antibacterial Activity of ZnO Nanoparticles in a Staphylococcus-aureus-Infected Galleria mellonella Model Is Tuned by Different Apple-Derived Phytocargos
Authors: Santos Catarina F. , Andrade Suzana M. , Mil-Homens Dalila , Montemor M. Fátima , Alves Marta M.
Published: September 2023

This research investigates pH changes during the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and emphasises its importance in their physicochemical, antibacterial, and biological properties. Varying the synthesis pH from 8 to 12 using “Bravo de Esmolfe” apple extracts neither affected the morphology nor crystallinity of ZnO but impacted NP phytochemical loads. This difference is because alkaline hydrolysis of phytochemicals occurred with increasing pH, resulting in BE-ZnO with distinct phytocargos. To determine the toxicity of BE-ZnO NPs, Galleria mellonella was used as an alternative to non-rodent models. These assays showed no adverse effects on larvae up to a concentration of 200 mg/kg and that NPs excess was relieved by faeces and silk fibres. This was evaluated by utilising fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) to track NPs’ intrinsic fluorescence. The antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus was higher for BE-ZnO12 than for BE-ZnO8; however, a different trend was attained in an in vivo infection model. This result may be related to NPs’ residence in larvae haemocytes, modulated by their phytocargos. This research demonstrates, for the first time, the potential of green synthesis to modulate the biosafety and antibacterial activity of NPs in an advanced G. mellonella infection model. These findings support future strategies to overcome antimicrobial resistance by utilizing distinct phytocargos to modulate NPs’ action over time.
3D Filaments Based on Polyhydroxy Butyrate—Micronized Bacterial Cellulose for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Celestino Matheus F. , Lima Lais R. , Fontes Marina , Batista Igor T. S. , Mulinari Daniella R. , Dametto Alessandra , Rattes Raphael A. , Amaral André C. , Assunção Rosana M. N. , Ribeiro Clovis A. , Castro Guillermo R. , Barud Hernane S.
Published: September 2023

In this work, scaffolds based on poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and micronized bacterial cellulose (BC) were produced through 3D printing. Filaments for the printing were obtained by varying the percentage of micronized BC (0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 2.00%) inserted in relation to the PHB matrix. Despite the varying concentrations of BC, the biocomposite filaments predominantly contained PHB functional groups, as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) demonstrated. Thermogravimetric analyses (i.e., TG and DTG) of the filaments showed that the peak temperature (Tpeak) of PHB degradation decreased as the concentration of BC increased, with the lowest being 248 °C, referring to the biocomposite filament PHB/2.0% BC, which has the highest concentration of BC. Although there was a variation in the thermal behavior of the filaments, it was not significant enough to make printing impossible, considering that the PHB melting temperature was 170 °C. Biological assays indicated the non-cytotoxicity of scaffolds and the provision of cell anchorage sites. The results obtained in this research open up new paths for the application of this innovation in tissue engineering.
Fabrication and Optimization of 3D-Printed Silica Scaffolds for Neural Precursor Cell Cultivation
Authors: Kastrinaki Georgia , Pechlivani Eleftheria-Maria , Gkekas Ioannis , Kladovasilakis Nikolaos , Gkagkari Evdokia , Petrakis Spyros , Asimakopoulou Akrivi
Published: September 2023

The latest developments in tissue engineering scaffolds have sparked a growing interest in the creation of controlled 3D cellular structures that emulate the intricate biophysical and biochemical elements found within versatile in vivo microenvironments. The objective of this study was to 3D-print a monolithic silica scaffold specifically designed for the cultivation of neural precursor cells. Initially, a preliminary investigation was conducted to identify the critical parameters pertaining to calcination. This investigation aimed to produce sturdy and uniform scaffolds with a minimal wall-thickness of 0.5 mm in order to mitigate the formation of cracks. Four cubic specimens, with different wall-thicknesses of 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mm, were 3D-printed and subjected to two distinct calcination profiles. Thermogravimetric analysis was employed to examine the freshly printed material, revealing critical temperatures associated with increased mass loss. Isothermal steps were subsequently introduced to facilitate controlled phase transitions and reduce crack formation even at the minimum wall thickness of 0.5 mm. The optimized structure stability was obtained for the slow calcination profile (160 min) then the fast calcination profile (60 min) for temperatures up to 900 °C. In situ X-ray diffraction analysis was also employed to assess the crystal phases of the silicate based material throughout various temperature profiles up to 1200 °C, while scanning electron microscopy was utilized to observe micro-scale crack formation. Then, ceramic scaffolds were 3D-printed, adopting a hexagonal and spherical channel structures with channel opening of 2 mm, and subsequently calcined using the optimized slow profile. Finally, the scaffolds were evaluated in terms of biocompatibility, cell proliferation, and differentiation using neural precursor cells (NPCs). These experiments indicated proliferation of NPCs (for 13 days) and differentiation into neurons which remained viable (up to 50 days in culture). In parallel, functionality was verified by expression of pre- (SYN1) and post-synaptic (GRIP1) markers, suggesting that 3D-printed scaffolds are a promising system for biotechnological applications using NPCs.
Targeted EGFR Nanotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Crintea Andreea , Constantin Anne-Marie , Motofelea Alexandru C. , Crivii Carmen-Bianca , Velescu Maria A. , Coșeriu Răzvan L. , Ilyés Tamás , Crăciun Alexandra M. , Silaghi Ciprian N.
Published: September 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advances in treatment, the prognosis remains poor, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. The present review explores the potential of targeted epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) nanotherapy as an alternative treatment for NSCLC, showing that EGFR-targeted nanoparticles are efficiently taken up by NSCLC cells, leading to a significant reduction in tumor growth in mouse models. Consequently, we suggest that targeted EGFR nanotherapy could be an innovative treatment strategy for NSCLC; however, further studies are needed to optimize the nanoparticles and evaluate their safety and efficacy in clinical settings and human trials.
Characterization and Evaluation of Silver Concentrations in Hydroxyapatite Powders
Authors: Méndez-Lozano Néstor , Apatiga-Castro Miguel , Ruíz-Baltazar Alvaro de Jesús , Luz-Asunción Miguel de la , Pérez-Ramírez Eduardo E.
Published: September 2023

The goal of this study is to evaluate the influence of the concentration of silver on the structural and antimicrobial in vitro properties of silver-doped hydroxyapatite powders obtained using the precipitation method. Different concentrations of silver were evaluated to assess the antimicrobial properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dispersive energy spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize the powders. XRD and FTIR showed that the hydroxyapatite structure is not affected by the incorporation of silver; on the other hand, EDS showed the presence of silver in the powders. Antibacterial studies showed the efficiency of hydroxyapatite powders in inhibiting bacterial growth as silver concentration increases. According to the results, silver-doped hydroxyapatite powders are suggested for use in the prevention and treatment of infections in bone and dental tissues.
Design and Machining Applications of the Piezoelectric Vibration Sensing System
Authors: Yang Yiqing , Li Longpeng , Akhmedovich Mirakov , Ma Wenshuo , Xu Dongdong
Published: September 2023

A piezoelectric vibration sensing system (PVSS) was devised in this study and employed for the purpose of vibration sensing in machining. The system comprises three primary components, wherein the sensor is utilized for the collection and conversion of energy, subsequently transmitting it to the data acquisition card (DAC) via a low-noise cable. The crux of the entire system lies in the upper computer-based control application, which facilitates the transmission of instructions to the DAC for data acquisition and transmission. The integration of Wi-Fi data transfer capability between the DAC and the computer serves to eliminate the principal issue associated with employing the sensor as a voltage source. The sensitivity of the designed device was calibrated utilizing commercial accelerometers, while an aluminum workpiece was fabricated to conduct vibration and machining tests in order to verify the performance of the PVSS. The shaker excitation experiment yielded a peak voltage of 0.05 mV, thereby substantiating that the PVSS can more accurately discern the natural frequency of the workpiece below 5000 Hz compared to commercial accelerometers. The experiments verify that the devised PVSS can precisely measure vibrations during the milling process, and can be implemented for the purpose of detecting machining stability.
Development of an Edge Computing-Based Intelligent Feeding System for Observing Depth-Specific Feeding Behavior in Red Seabream
Authors: Lee Donggil , Bae Jaehyun , Lee Kyounghoon
Published: September 2023

The supply of feed has a significant effect on fish growth and operation costs, making it a critical factor in aquaculture. Owing to the repetitive nature of feed supply, feeding techniques have undergone a shift from manual feeding to systems allowing operators to set feed quantities and timing, reducing labor efforts. However, unlike manual feeding, automatic systems cannot adjust the amount of feed supplied according to the feeding activities of fish, potentially resulting in overfeeding or underfeeding. Such overfeeding causes marine pollution and increases operational costs, whereas underfeeding hinders fish growth. In this study, we present an intelligent feeding system that observes the depth-specific feeding behavior of red seabream during the feeding process and determines whether feed supply must be continued. The performance of the feeding algorithm is evaluated by comparing the feed loss rate measured during a feeding experiment at a red seabream sea cage farm with that of the traditional manual feeding method. The results reveal that the feed supply per unit time of the manual method and the developed intelligent feed supply system is at an equivalent level. Moreover, the difference in the average feed loss rate is a negligible 1.16%, confirming that the new system is slightly more advantageous.
Automatic Marine Sub-Bottom Sediment Classification Using Feature Clustering and Quality Factor
Authors: Zong Zaixiang , Zhao Jianhu , Li Shaobo , Zhang Hongmei
Published: September 2023

It has been proven that the quality factor (Q) is important for marine sediment attenuation attribute representation and is helpful for sediment classification. However, the traditional spectral-ratio (SR) method is affected by the interference effect caused by thin interbeds, which seriously degrade the performance of the SR method. Aimed at this problem, a novel method based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) correlation analysis is presented in this paper, which realizes the separation between interference reflections and effective signals. After obtaining the effective signals, a frequency band selection method is employed to weaken the influence of background noise. To better apply the proposed method to large-area sediment classification, a sediment clustering method based on texture features is introduced. Experiments on real data validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The accuracy of the correlation analysis method using the modified parameters is 94 percent. The stability improvement in the standard deviation of the Q calculation can reach more than 90 percent. Moreover, the interpretation of sediment categories using the mean value of Q fits the drilling data well. It is believed that the proposed method has huge potential for the engineering applications in sub-bottom sediment classification.
The Mineral and Geochemical Features of Sulfides in the Jade Hydrothermal Field of the Okinawa Trough in Off-Shore China
Authors: Wang Yujie , Zeng Zhigang
Published: September 2023

In this study, mineralogical and elemental geochemical characteristics of massive sulfide samples collected from the Jade hydrothermal field, located in the Izena depression in the central graben of the Okinawa Trough, were analyzed by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The results show that the mineralization in the Jade hydrothermal field can be divided into Zn-Cu-Pb-rich massive sulfides and Zn-Fe-rich massive sulfides. The former is composed of sphalerite, galena, chalcopyrite, pyrite, and anglesite, which is the product of the low-temperature alteration of galena. The latter is mainly composed of sphalerite, pyrite, marcasite, and traces of galena. Cu and Zn in pyrite may exist in the form of microinclusions, while Ag and Pb may exist in pyrite in the form of fine galena inclusions containing Ag. Fe and Cu may enter sphalerite in the form of ion replacement. Zn may enter chalcopyrite in the form of ion replacement. Consistent with the previous understanding, the metal elements in the hydrothermal liquid system in the Jade hydrothermal field mostly migrated as sulfur complexes, and when the hydrothermal fluid mixes with seawater, the physical and chemical conditions of the fluid change, resulting in sulfide mineral precipitation. However, the chemical structure of chalcopyrite is still controversial, which restricts the understanding of the substitution mechanism of trace elements during chalcopyrite precipitation.
A Sea Fog Image Defogging Method Based on the Improved Convex Optimization Model
Authors: Huang He , Li Zhanyi , Niu Mingbo , Miah Md Sipon , Gao Tao , Wang Huifeng
Published: September 2023

Due to the high fog concentration in sea fog images, serious loss of image details is an existing problem, which reduces the reliability of aerial visual-based sensing platforms such as unmanned aerial vehicles. Moreover, the reflection of water surface and spray can easily lead to overexposure of images, and the assumed prior conditions contained in the traditional fog removal method are not completely valid, which affects the restoration effectiveness. In this paper, we propose a sea fog removal method based on the improved convex optimization model, and realize the restoration of images by using fewer prior conditions than that in traditional methods. Compared with dark channel methods, the solution of atmospheric light estimation is simplified, and the value channel in hue–saturation–value space is used for fusion atmospheric light map estimation. We construct the atmospheric scattering model as an improved convex optimization model so that the relationship between the transmittance and a clear image is deduced without any prior conditions. In addition, an improved split-Bregman iterative method is designed to obtain the transmittance and a clear image. Our experiments demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively defog sea fog images. Compared with similar methods in the literature, our proposed method can actively extract image details more effectively, enrich image color and restore image maritime targets more clearly. At the same time, objective metric indicators such as information entropy, average gradient, and the fog-aware density evaluator are significantly improved.