bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A single-center comparison of our initial experiences in treating penile and urethral cancer with video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL) and later experiences in melanoma cases
Authors: Gómez-Ferrer A. , Collado A. , Ramírez M. , Domínguez J. , Casanova J. , Mir C. , Wong A. , Marenco J. L. , Nagore E. , Soriano V. , Rubio-Briones J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL) is a minimally invasive approach that is increasingly indicated in oncological settings, with mounting evidence for its long-term oncological safety.

Objectives

To present our single-center experience of treating penile and urethral cancer with VEIL, as well as its more recent application in melanoma patients.

Methods

We prospectively recorded our experiences with VEIL from September 2010 to July 2018, registering the patient primary indication, surgical details, complications, and follow-up.

Results

Twenty-nine patients were operated in one (24) or both (5) groins; 18 had penile cancer, 1 had urethral cancer, and 10 had melanoma. A mean 8.62 ± 4.45 lymph nodes were removed using VEIL and of these, an average of 1.00 ± 2.87 were metastatic; 16 patients developed lymphocele and 10 presented some degree of lymphedema; there were no skin or other major complications. The median follow-up was 19.35 months; there were 3 penile cancer patient recurrences in the VEIL-operated side. None of the melanoma patients presented a lymphatic inguinal recurrence.

Conclusions

VEIL is a minimally invasive technique which appears to be oncologically safe showing fewer complications than open surgery. However, complications such as lymphorrhea, lymphocele, or lymphedema were not diminished by using VEIL.
Individualized 3D printed navigation template-assisted atlantoaxial pedicle screws vs. free-hand screws for the treatment of upper cervical fractures
Authors: Niu Guoqi , Cheng Jiawei , Liu Lutan , Li Chao , Zhou Gong , Chen Hui , Liu Tao , Nie Hu , Sun Zheng , Jiang Weili , Zhou Qiankun , Zhao Baoyin , Zhu Jun , Yu Ruochen , Guo Yalong , Yang Yi , Bai Jianzhong
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of freehand atlantoaxial pedicle screws against custom 3D printed navigation template screws in the treatment of upper cervical fractures.

Methods

In our institution from 2010 to 2020, a retrospective cohort analysis of 23 patients with upper cervical fractures was done. These patients were separated into two groups: group A (N = 12), which received customized 3D printed navigation template-assisted screws with virtual reality techniques, and group B (N = 11), which received freehand screws assisted by intraoperative fluoroscopy. Every patient was monitored for more than 1 year. The two groups were contrasted in terms of screw implant accuracy, cervical spine Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, surgical time, fluoroscopy times, and intraoperative blood loss.

Results

A total of 88 atlantoaxial pedicle screws in all, 46 in group A and 42 in group B, were implanted. In group A, the screw insertion accuracy rate was 95.7%, compared to 80.0% in group B (P < 0.05). When compared to group B, group A had shorter surgery times, less blood loss, fewer fluoroscopies, a higher short-term JOA score, and overt pain reduction (P < 0.05). However, there was no discernible difference between the two groups' VAS scores, long-term JOA scores, or ASIA scores (sensory and motor), at the most recent follow-up.

Conclusion

Individualized 3D printed guide leads to significant improvement in the screw safety, efficacy, and accuracy, which may be a promising strategy for the treatment of upper cervical fractures.
Occurrence of Nine Antibiotics in Different Kinds of Sewage Sludge, Soils, Corn and Grapes After Sludge Spreading
Authors: Barreiro Ana , Cela-Dablanca Raquel , Nebot Carolina , Rodríguez-López Lucía , Santás-Miguel Vanesa , Arias-Estévez Manuel , Fernández-Sanjurjo María , Núñez-Delgado Avelino , Álvarez-Rodríguez Esperanza
Published: September 2022

The huge worldwide use of antibiotics triggers the accumulation of these substances in sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) and the possible contamination of soils amended with it, as well as of crops growing in these soils. In this work we analyzed the presence of the antibiotics amoxicillin (AMO), cefuroxime (CEF), ciprofloxacin (CIP), clarithromycin (CLA), levofloxacin (LEV), lincomycin (LIN), norfloxacin (NOR), sulfadiazine (SUL), and trimethoprim (TRI), in sludge from different WWTPs in Galicia (NW Spain), as well as in sludge technically treated by waste-managers, in soils where treated sludge was applied, and in crops (corn and vineyard) growing in the amended areas. The antibiotics were quantified by means of high resolution HPLC-mass-chromatography. The results indicate that almost all the sludge samples contained antibiotics, being ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin the most abundant reaching maximum values of 623 and 893 ng/g, respectively. The sludge treatment significantly reduced the number and the concentrations of antibiotics. In 12% of the soil samples where sludge was applied, some antibiotics were detected, but always in small concentrations. Regarding the crops, no antibiotic was detected in the roots, stalk, leaves and grain of corn, neither in grapes sampled in vineyards. It can be concluded that the treatments currently applied in the WWTPs under study are not totally effective in removing antibiotics from the sludge, although the findings of this research suggest that the additional specific treatment of the sludge derived from these WWTPs is effective in reducing the risk of environmental pollution due to a variety of antibiotics, and specifically in the case of soils amended with these organic materials and crops growing on it.
Adaptive Robust Tracking Control for Near Space Vehicles with Multi-Source Disturbances and Input–Output Constraints
Authors: Yan Xiaohui , Shao Guiwei , Yang Qingyun , Yu Liang , Yao Yuwu , Tu Shengxia
Published: September 2022

In this paper, considering the simultaneous influence of multi-source disturbances, system modeling uncertainties and input–output constraints, an adaptive robust attitude tracking control scheme is proposed for near space vehicles (NSVs) which is expressed as a stochastic nonlinear system. A multi-dimensional Taylor polynomial network (MTPN) is utilized to handle the system uncertainties, and the nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) based on MTPN is designed to estimate the external disturbances. Furthermore, by constructing the auxiliary system to tackle the input saturation and introducing the Tan-type barrier Lyapunov function (TBLF) to solve the output constraint, the constrained control strategy can be obtained. Combining with backstepping control (BC) technique and stochastic control method, an adaptive robust stochastic control scheme is developed based on NDO, MTPN, and auxiliary system, and the closed-loop system stability in the sense of probability is analyzed based on stochastic Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulations further demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed tracking control scheme.
Short Practise in Human Body Dissection Benefits Acquisition of the Musculoskeletal System in First Year Medical Students at University of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain)
Authors: Insausti Ricardo , Ubero Maria del Mar , Muñoz López Mónica
Published: September 2022

Dissection in anatomy teaching is key in medicine; however, a debate is underway about whether it complements well a modern curriculum in the digital era. We aimed to determine whether a short add-on dissection practise facilitates learning of the gross anatomy relative to studying it with just prosection, plastic models, and digital 3D atlases. We tested the hypothesis that dissection, even if brief, benefits both aptitudes and attitudes with respect to anatomy learning. A total of 106 1st year medical students studied the musculoskeletal system with prosection and models and a 3D digital atlas (5 h). Of these, 52 had a further 2 hours self-directed dissection session (a handout was provided with instructions) while the reminder 54 students, who lacked the experience of dissection, formed the control group. Academic grades and student satisfaction were evaluated. The dissection group obtained 10% higher grades in anatomy (F1,51 = 12.71, p < 0.001) and were highly satisfied with the dissection session (Likert scale 0–5, median = 4, IQR = 3.5), also rating the sessions as particularly motivating (median = 4, IQR = 4.4). We conclude that human body dissection, even for a limited time, has a positive impact on human anatomy grades in 1st year medical students, and is valued and motivating.
Optimized Chemical Extraction Methods of Antimicrobial Peptides from Roots and Leaves of Extremophilic Plants: Anthyllis sericea and Astragalus armatus Collected from the Tunisian Desert
Authors: Ben Brahim Raoua , Ellouzi Hasna , Fouzai Khaoula , Asses Nedra , Neffati Mohammed , Sabatier Jean Marc , Bulet Philippe , Regaya Imed
Published: September 2022

Extraction methods depend mainly on the chemical nature of the extracted molecule. For these reasons, the selection of the extraction medium is a vital part of obtaining these molecules. The extraction of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from extremophile plants is important because of its potential pharmaceutical applications. This work focused on the evaluation of several solvents for the extraction of AMPs from the following two extremophile plants: Astragalus armatus and Anthyllis sericea from southern Tunisia. In order to identify the most efficient solvents and extraction solutions, we used sulfuric acid, dichloromethane, phosphate buffer, acetic acid and sodium acetate, and we tested them on leaves and roots of both the studied plants. The extracts obtained using sulfuric acid, dichloromethane and phosphate buffer extraction did not show any antimicrobial activity, whereas the acetic acid and sodium acetate extracts led to growth inhibition of some of the tested bacterial strains. The extracts of leaves and roots of An. sericea and As. armatus obtained by acetic acid and sodium acetate were proven to be active against Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, the most appropriate solvents to use for antimicrobial peptide extraction from both plants are acetic acid and sodium acetate.
Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. Suppresses Inflammatory Response in Cigarette Smoke Condensate Exposed Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Mice
Authors: Park So-Won , Lee A Yeong , Lim Je-Oh , Lee Se-Jin , Kim Woong-Il , Yang Yea-Gin , Kim Bohye , Kim Joong-Sun , Chae Sung-Wook , Na Kun , Seo Yun-Soo , Shin In-Sik
Published: September 2022

Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. found in China, Japan, and Korea is traditionally used for managing arthritis and respiratory diseases. In this study, we analyzed the components of L. tanakae 70% ethanol extract (LTE) and investigated the therapeutic effects of LTE on pulmonary inflammation using cells exposed to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro and in vivo in mice and performed a network analysis between components and genes based on a public database. We detected quercitrin, afzelin, rhamnetin 3-rhamnoside, and rhamnocitrin 3-rhamnoside in LTE, which induced a significant reduction in inflammatory mediators including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and inflammatory cells in CSC exposed H292 cells and in mice, accompanied by a reduction in inflammatory cell infiltration into lung tissue. In addition, LTE increased translocation into the nuclei of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). By contrast, the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, induced by CSC exposure, decreased after LTE application. These results were consistent with the network pharmacological analysis. In conclusion, LTE effectively attenuated pulmonary inflammation caused by CSC+LPS exposure, which was closely involved in the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB activation. Therefore, LTE may be a potential treatment option for pulmonary inflammatory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Identification of Cytoprotective Small-Molecule Inducers of Heme-Oxygenase-1
Authors: Ghajar-Rahimi Gelare , Traylor Amie M. , Mathew Bini , Bostwick James R. , Nebane N Miranda , Zmijewska Anna A. , Esman Stephanie K. , Thukral Saakshi , Zhai Ling , Sambandam Vijaya , Cowell Rita M. , Suto Mark J. , George James F. , Augelli-Szafran Corinne E. , Agarwal Anupam
Published: September 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major public health concern with significant morbidity and mortality and no current treatments beyond supportive care and dialysis. Preclinical studies have suggested that heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of heme, has promise as a potential therapeutic target for AKI. Clinical trials involving HO-1 products (biliverdin, carbon monoxide, and iron), however, have not progressed beyond the Phase ½ level. We identified small-molecule inducers of HO-1 that enable us to exploit the full therapeutic potential of HO-1, the combination of its products, and yet-undefined effects of the enzyme system. Through cell-based, high-throughput screens for induction of HO-1 driven by the human HO-1 promoter/enhancer, we identified two novel small molecules and broxaldine (an FDA-approved drug) for further consideration as candidate compounds exhibiting an Emax ≥70% of 5 µM hemin and EC50 <10 µM. RNA sequencing identified shared binding motifs to NRF2, a transcription factor known to regulate antioxidant genes, including HMOX1. In vitro, the cytoprotective function of the candidates was assessed against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis. In vivo, delivery of a candidate compound induced HO-1 expression in the kidneys of mice. This study serves as the basis for further development of small-molecule HO-1 inducers as preventative or therapeutic interventions for a variety of pathologies, including AKI.
Luteolin-Induced Activation of Mitochondrial BKCa Channels: Undisclosed Mechanism of Cytoprotection
Authors: Kampa Rafał P. , Flori Lorenzo , Sęk Aleksandra , Spezzini Jacopo , Brogi Simone , Szewczyk Adam , Calderone Vincenzo , Bednarczyk Piotr , Testai Lara
Published: September 2022

Luteolin (LUT) is a well-known flavonoid that exhibits a number of beneficial properties. Among these, it shows cardioprotective effects, as confirmed by numerous studies. However, its effect on mitochondrial potassium channels, the activation of which is related to cytoprotection, as well as on heart ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) damage prevention, has not yet been investigated. The large conductance calcium-regulated potassium channel (mitoBKCa) has been identified in both the mitochondria of the vascular endothelial cells, which plays a significant role in the functioning of the cardiovascular system under oxidative stress-related conditions, and in the mitochondria of cardiomyocytes, where it is deeply involved in cardiac protection against I/R injury. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the role of the mitoBKCa channel in luteolin-induced cytoprotection. A number of in vitro, in vivo, ex vivo and in silico studies have confirmed that luteolin activates this channel in the mitochondria of cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells, which in turn leads to the protection of the endothelium and a significant reduction in the extent of damage resulting from myocardial infarction, where this effect was partially abolished by the mitoBKCa channel blocker paxilline. In conclusion, these results suggest that luteolin has cardioprotective effects, at least in part, through the activation of the mitoBKCa channel, shedding light on a new putative mechanism of action.
A Multi-Pedestrian Tracking Algorithm for Dense Scenes Based on an Attention Mechanism and Dual Data Association
Authors: Li Chang , Wang Yiding , Liu Xiaoming
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the problems of frequent identity switches (IDs) and trajectory interruption of multi-pedestrian tracking algorithms in dense scenes, this paper proposes a multi-pedestrian tracking algorithm based on an attention mechanism and dual data association. First, the FairMOT algorithm is used as a baseline to introduce the feature pyramid network in the CenterNet detection network and up-sampling the output multi-scale fused feature maps, effectively reducing the rate of missed detection of small-sized and obscured pedestrians. The improved channel attention mechanism module is embedded in the CenterNet’s backbone network to improve detection accuracy. Then, a re-identification (ReID) branch is embedded in the head of the detection network, and the two sub-tasks of pedestrian detection and pedestrian apparent feature extraction are combined in a multi-task joint learning approach to output the pedestrian apparent feature vectors while detecting pedestrians, which improves the computational efficiency and localization accuracy of the algorithm. Finally, we propose a dual data association tracking model that tracks by associating almost every detection box instead of only the high-scoring ones. For low-scoring detection boxes, we utilize their similarities with trajectories to recover obscured pedestrians. The experiment using the MOT17 dataset shows that the tracking accuracy is improved by 0.6% compared with the baseline FairMOT algorithm, and the number of switches decreases from 3303 to 2056, which indicates that the proposed algorithm can effectively reduce the number of trajectory interruptions and identity switching.
Development of a Speed Control Device for Fishing Vessels at Low Speeds and Simulation of the Control System
Authors: Shiraishi Haruhiro , Shiraishi Hajime
Published: September 2022

Trawling is one of the most common fishing methods used by small vessels. This method requires the vessel to operate at a constant low speed because the depth of the trawl must be kept constant. In addition, the operation is often conducted by a small number of people, who must simultaneously maneuver the vessel and fish, making automation desirable. To develop this device, a mathematical model of the vessel was created based on data collected from actual operation of the vessel, and simulations were conducted to determine what type of control system would be suitable. As a result, it was possible to grasp effective control methods, effects of disturbances such as tides and waves, and how to deal with effective parts to improve response.
Advances in Biomaterial-Mediated Gene Therapy for Articular Cartilage Repair
Authors: Zhu Wei , Niu Tong , Wei Zhanqi , Yang Bo , Weng Xisheng
Published: September 2022

Articular cartilage defects caused by various reasons are relatively common in clinical practice, but the lack of efficient therapeutic methods remains a substantial challenge due to limitations in the chondrocytes’ repair abilities. In the search for scientific cartilage repair methods, gene therapy appears to be more effective and promising, especially with acellular biomaterial-assisted procedures. Biomaterial-mediated gene therapy has mainly been divided into non-viral vector and viral vector strategies, where the controlled delivery of gene vectors is contained using biocompatible materials. This review will introduce the common clinical methods of cartilage repair used, the strategies of gene therapy for cartilage injuries, and the latest progress.
Mechanical Characterisation and Numerical Modelling of TPMS-Based Gyroid and Diamond Ti6Al4V Scaffolds for Bone Implants: An Integrated Approach for Translational Consideration
Authors: Naghavi Seyed Ataollah , Tamaddon Maryam , Marghoub Arsalan , Wang Katherine , Babamiri Behzad Bahrami , Hazeli Kavan , Xu Wei , Lu Xin , Sun Changning , Wang Liqing , Moazen Mehran , Wang Ling , Li Dichen , Liu Chaozong
Published: September 2022

Additive manufacturing has been used to develop a variety of scaffold designs for clinical and industrial applications. Mechanical properties (i.e., compression, tension, bending, and torsion response) of these scaffolds are significantly important for load-bearing orthopaedic implants. In this study, we designed and additively manufactured porous metallic biomaterials based on two different types of triply periodic minimal surface structures (i.e., gyroid and diamond) that mimic the mechanical properties of bone, such as porosity, stiffness, and strength. Physical and mechanical properties, including compressive, tensile, bending, and torsional stiffness and strength of the developed scaffolds, were then characterised experimentally and numerically using finite element method. Sheet thickness was constant at 300 μm, and the unit cell size was varied to generate different pore sizes and porosities. Gyroid scaffolds had a pore size in the range of 600–1200 μm and a porosity in the range of 54–72%, respectively. Corresponding values for the diamond were 900–1500 μm and 56–70%. Both structure types were validated experimentally, and a wide range of mechanical properties (including stiffness and yield strength) were predicted using the finite element method. The stiffness and strength of both structures are comparable to that of cortical bone, hence reducing the risks of scaffold failure. The results demonstrate that the developed scaffolds mimic the physical and mechanical properties of cortical bone and can be suitable for bone replacement and orthopaedic implants. However, an optimal design should be chosen based on specific performance requirements.
COVID-19, Endothelium and the Cardiometabolic Patient: A Possible Role for Capillary Leak Syndrome
Authors: Lambadiari Vaia , Korakas Emmanouil , Oikonomou Evangelos , Bletsa Evanthia , Kountouri Aikaterini , Goliopoulou Athina , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Siasos Gerasimos
Published: September 2022

Capillary leak syndrome is an under-diagnosed condition leading to serious hypoalbuminemia with diffuse edema, pulmonary edema, severe hypotension, and possibly death. Sepsis leading to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a major risk factor; however, capillary hyper-permeability is the core underlying pathophysiological mechanism. Endothelial dysfunction plays a major role in cardiometabolic disease through insulin resistance, lipotoxicity, and, eventually, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. We review the literature concerning the aforementioned mechanisms as well-established risk factors for adverse COVID-19 outcomes. We especially focus on data regarding the underlying endothelial effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, including direct damage and increased vascular leakage through a hyper-inflammatory cascade and diminished nitric oxide bioavailability. Interestingly, an increased incidence of hypoalbuminemia has been observed in patients with severe COVID-19, especially those with underlying cardiometabolic disease. Importantly, low albumin levels present a strong, positive association with poor disease outcomes. Therefore, in this review article, we highlight the important role of cardiovascular risk factors on endothelium integrity and the possible link of endothelial damage in the hypoalbuminemia-associated adverse prognosis of COVID-19 patients.
Current Understanding of the Pathophysiology and Novel Treatments of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome
Authors: Jhang Jia-Fong , Jiang Yuan-Hong , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: September 2022

The pathophysiology of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is multifactorial. Identifying the clinical characteristics and cystoscopic findings of bladder-centered IC/BPS facilitates optimal treatment strategies targeting the diseased urinary bladder. Patients with Hunner’s lesion (HIC) and without Hunner’s lesion (NHIC) should be treated differently. Based on the histopathological findings, NHIC can be treated with intravesical instillation of urothelial protective agents, such as hyaluronic acid, to cover the urothelial defects. In non-responders, chronic inflammation and higher urothelial dysfunction can be treated with intravesical botulinum toxin A injection, platelet-rich plasma injection, or low-energy shock wave treatment to reduce inflammation, increase tissue regeneration, and improve the urothelial barrier. Patients with HIC should be treated with electrocauterization first; augmentation enterocystoplasty should only be used in end-stage HIC when the contracted bladder is refractory to other treatments. The antiviral agent, valacyclovir, can be used in patients with HIC, small bladder capacity, and high-grade glomerulations. In addition, behavioral modification is always recommended from the beginning of treatment. Treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy interventions in combination with bladder therapy can reduce anxiety and improve treatment outcomes. Herein, recent advances in the pathophysiology and novel treatments for IC/BPS are reviewed.
Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) Capability to Distinguish Molecular Breast Cancer Subtypes
Authors: Luczynska Elzbieta , Piegza Tomasz , Szpor Joanna , Heinze Sylwia , Popiela Tadeusz , Kargol Jaromir , Rudnicki Wojciech
Published: September 2022

With breast cancer ranking first among the most common malignant neoplasms in the world, new techniques of early detection are in even more demand than before. Our awareness of tumors’ biology is expanding and may be used to treat patients more efficiently. A link between radiology and pathology was searched for in our study, as well as the answer to the question of whether a tumor type can be seen on contrast-enhanced mammography and if such knowledge may serve as part of precision medicine.
Investigation of Antistress and Antidepressant Activities of Synthetic Curcumin Analogues: Behavioral and Biomarker Approach
Authors: Hussain Haya , Ahmad Shujaat , Shah Syed Wadood Ali , Ullah Abid , Almehmadi Mazen , Abdulaziz Osama , Allahyani Mamdouh , Alsaiari Ahad Amer , Halawi Mustafa , Alamer Edrous
Published: September 2022

Depression is a serious psychiatric disorder that affects millions of individuals all over the world, thus demanding special attention from researchers in order to investigate its effective remedies. Curcumin, along with its synthetic derivatives, is recognized for its incredible pharmacological activities. In this study, methyl, methoxy and chloro-substituent synthetic curcumin analogues C1–C3 were respectively tested for free radical-scavenging activity. Behavioral studies were performed using chemical-induced and swimming endurance tests as stress models, and forced swim tests (FSTs) and tail suspension tests (TSTs) as depression mice models. Biochemical examinations were performed after a scopolamine-induced stress model by decapitating the mice, and brain tissues were isolated for biochemical assessment of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The curcumin analogue C2 exhibited higher DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazo-line-6-sulphonate) free radical-scavenging potential, having IC50 values of 45.18 µg/mL and 62.31 µg/mL, respectively, in comparison with reference curcumin and tocopherol. In the chemical-induced test, C2 (80.17%), C3 (72.79%) and C1 (51.85%) revealed higher antistress responses by significantly reducing the number of writhes, whereas the immobility time was significantly reduced by C2 and C3 in the swimming endurance test, indicating excellent antistress potential. Similarly, C2 and C3 significantly reduced the immobility times in FST and TST, demonstrating their antidepressant properties. The biomarkers study revealed that these compounds significantly enhanced hippocampus CAT, SOD and GSH, and reduced MDA levels in the scopolamine-induced stress mice model. These findings suggest the potential of curcumin analogues (C2 and C3) as antistress and antidepressant agents.
Plasma Mitochondrial DNA and Necroptosis as Prognostic Indicators in Critically Ill Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Choi Hayoung , Yoo Hongseok , Lee Jin Young , Park Junseon , Jeon Kyeongman
Published: September 2022

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been identified as a biomarker for predicting sepsis mortality. Although preclinical studies suggested that necroptosis could explain the mechanistic link of mtDNA in sepsis, this is not yet evident in patients with sepsis. This study evaluated the association between mtDNA and essential necroptosis mediators in prospectively enrolled patients with sepsis. Plasma mtDNA copy number was measured using quantitative PCR assay and necroptosis mediators, including receptor-interacting protein kinase-3 (RIPK3), mixed lineage domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL), and high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), were measured by ELISA. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to evaluate the predictive ability of mtDNA copy number as a predictor of hospital mortality. Among the 142 patients with sepsis, the mtDNA copy number was significantly higher in non-survivors than in survivors (median, 4040 copies/µL vs. 2585 copies/µL; p < 0.001), and the area under the ROC curve was 0.73 (95% CI, 0.64–0.82) for the relationship between mtDNA and hospital mortality. Furthermore, the correlation between mtDNA copy number and each necroptosis mediator was excellent (p < 0.001 for all): RIPK3 (r = 0.803), MLKL (r = 0.897), and HMGB1 (r = 0.603). The plasma mtDNA copy number was highly correlated with essential necroptosis mediators, suggesting that mtDNA propagates necroptosis and increases sepsis mortality.
Prokineticin 2/PROK2 and Male Infertility
Authors: Petrella Carla , Spaziani Matteo , D’Orazi Valerio , Tarani Luigi , Terracina Sergio , Tarani Francesca , Micangeli Ginevra , Barbato Christian , Minni Antonio , Greco Antonio , Isidori Andrea M. , Ferraguti Giampiero , Fiore Marco
Published: September 2022

Male infertility represents about 50% of the causes of infertility in couples. The diagnosis process represents an important procedure for defining, when possible, the causes and approaching treatments (pharmacological, surgical) aimed at overcoming the problem. Several scientific studies have set out to discover early and indicative markers capable of providing information on the biological origin of infertility and increase current knowledge in the context of new potential therapeutic approaches. The prokineticin system (PROK) consists of the prokineticin 1 (PROK1) and prokineticin 2 (PROK2) proteins. Through the activation of two G-protein receptors (PROKR1 and PROKR2) regulate a wide range of biological functions, including gastrointestinal motility, circadian rhythm regulation, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, pain perception, and mood regulation. Several studies have highlighted the crucial role of the PROK system in the development and maturation of both male and female human reproductive organs. Particularly in men, the PROK system represents a new system useful to clarify some aspects of testicular pathophysiology and provide new potential hypotheses for therapeutic intervention. This narrative review aims to illustrate the state of the art regarding, in particular, the role of PROK2 in male infertility.
Correlation between Retinal Vascularization and Disease Aggressiveness in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Cennamo Gilda , Montorio Daniela , Ausiello Francesco Pio , Magno Luigifilippo , Iodice Rosa , Mazzucco Alberto , Iuzzolino Valentina Virginia , Senerchia Gianmaria , Brescia Morra Vincenzo , Nolano Maria , Costagliola Ciro , Dubbioso Raffaele
Published: September 2022

Abnormalities in retinal vascularization and neural density have been found in many neurodegenerative diseases; however, conflicting results are described in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The aim of the present study was, therefore, to systematically analyze retinal layers and vascularization by means of spectral-domain (SD-OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in ALS patients. We enrolled 48 ALS patients and 45 healthy controls. ALS patients were divided into three groups: slow progressors (n = 10), intermediate progressors (n = 24) and fast progressors (n = 14), according to the disease progression rate. For SD-OCT, we evaluated the Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), ganglion cell complex (GCC) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). Regarding the OCT-A, we assessed the vessel density (VD) in superficial and deep capillary plexuses, radial peripapillary capillary plexus, choriocapillary and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area. SD-OCT exam did not show any significant differences in GCC and RNFL thickness between patients and controls and among the three ALS groups. The SFCT was statistically greater in patients compared with controls (357.95 ± 55.15 µm vs. 301.3 ± 55.80 µm, p < 0.001); interestingly, the SFCT was thicker in patients with slow and intermediate disease progression than in those with fast disease progression (394.45 ± 53.73 µm vs. 393.09 ± 42.17 µm vs. 267.71 ± 56.24 µm, p < 0.001). OCT-A did not reveal any significant results. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-r) and disease duration did not correlate with any of the OCT parameters, except for SFCT with ALSFRS-r (r = 0.753, p = 0.024). This study demonstrated the possible association between choroidal thickness and disease activity in ALS. OCT could be a useful biomarker in the management of the disease.
Diabetes Mellitus Mediates Risk of Depression in Danish Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome—A National Cohort Study
Authors: Glintborg Dorte , Petersen Tanja Gram , Rubin Katrine Hass , Andersen Marianne Skovsager
Published: September 2022

Aim: To investigate the risk of depression in Danish women with PCOS compared to controls and possible mediators for depression in PCOS. National register-based study in Danish women with PCOS (PCOS Denmark, N = 25,203) and age-matched controls (N = 112,414). PCOS Odense University Hospital (PCOS OUH, N = 998) was a sub-cohort of women with PCOS with available clinical and biochemical results. The main study outcome was depression occurring after PCOS diagnosis. Depression was defined according to hospital ICD-10 diagnosis codes and/or inferred from filled medicine prescription of antidepressants. Diabetes, medical comorbidity, infertility, hormonal anti-contraception and low family income were entered as mediators in Cox regression analyses for depression. In PCOS OUH, PCOS characteristics (age, BMI, Ferriman-Gallwey score) were entered in Cox regression analyses. The median age at cohort entry was 28 (interquartile range (IQR) 23; 35) years. The median follow-up time to incident depression or censuring was 4.8 (IQR 2.2; 8.8) years in PCOS Denmark and 5.2 (IQR 2.4; 9.2) years in controls. Women with PCOS had a 40% increased risk of depression compared to controls (Hazard Ratio 1.42 (95% CI 1.38; 1.47). In regression analyses, diabetes, medical comorbidity, infertility, hormonal anticonception, and low family income were significant mediators of depression. Mediation analyses showed that the proportion of the association explained by diabetes was 12.5% (95% CI 10.4; 14.5). In PCOS OUH, BMI, waist and Ferriman-Gallwey score predicted development of depression. Conclusion: The risk of depression was increased in PCOS. Diabetes was an important mediator of depression in PCOS.
The Discovery of the Role of Outer Membrane Vesicles against Bacteria
Authors: Combo Sofia , Mendes Sérgio , Nielsen Kaare Magne , da Silva Gabriela Jorge , Domingues Sara
Published: September 2022

Gram-negative bacteria are intrinsically resistant to many commercialized antibiotics. The outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria prevents the entry of such antibiotics. Outer membrane vesicles (OMV) are naturally released from the OM of Gram-negative bacteria for a range of purposes, including competition with other bacteria. OMV may carry, as part of the membrane or lumen, molecules with antibacterial activity. Such OMV can be exposed to and can fuse with the cell surface of different bacterial species. In this review we consider how OMV can be used as tools to deliver antimicrobial agents. This includes the characteristics of OMV production and how this process can be used to create the desired antibacterial activity of OMV.
Using System Dynamics Method to Measure Project Management Performance of Local Government Agencies
Authors: Chang Carlos M. , Makahaube Johanes , Raheem Adeeba A. , Smith Eric , Mahnaz Syeda Lamiya
Published: September 2022

Measuring project management performance is complex and requires tools to capture the dynamic nature of the processes involved. Since the conception of system dynamics in the 1950s, the method has been used to solve complex projects. Project management possesses dynamic characteristics that involve planning, human resources, implementation, and control elements; thereby, using system dynamics to measure project management performance is a realistic approach. A research study was conducted using system dynamics to develop project management performance measures to capture the complexity of the process in local government agencies. The research approach considers measuring project engineering management performance as a holistic system influenced by leadership involvement, project management processes, and project engineering manager’s ability. The Zachman architectural framework was used to develop the project-management performance system’s ontology as the system dynamics model’s foundation. A case study was conducted for three cities with local government agencies to better understand the model components and factors that influence performance. Leadership involvement, project management processes, and project manager abilities were identified as critical factors that influence the project management performance level. To validate the results of the case study, the project management performance was further studied for the City of El Paso in terms of capability, capacity, and maturity level. The research study concluded that system dynamics is a feasible method and effective tool to measure management performance for engineering projects at local government agencies.
The Influence of Al Doping on the Optical Characteristics of ZnO Nanopowders Obtained by the Low-Cost Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Mishra Pooja Nag , Mishra Pankaj Kumar , Pathak Dinesh
Published: September 2022

In this work, the influence of Al (0, 2, 4, and 6 wt.%) on the optical properties of ZnO has been briefly investigated and described. The undoped and doped samples were characterized using a UV-visible spectrophotometer and Photoluminescence (PL). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) data in our preceding study is also indexed, and materials are said to have a wurtzite-structured hexagonal phase and exhibit no impurity phases. The average crystallite sizes of the pure ZnO were found to increase, i.e., from 14.19 nm to 34.17 nm with an increase in temperature, and in the case of Al-doped ZnO, at a constant temperature, from 35.05 nm to 18.89 nm, respectively. The average crystallite size of AZO (Al-doped ZnO) decreases with increasing Al content. With the increasing temperature, increases in crystallinity and size of the pure ZnO have been observed. In the case of Al doping, with an increase in the concentration of doping the crystallite size is seen to be decreased, without any change in the temperature. Al doping improves the formation of the well-ordered crystalline structure of ZnO up to a certain limit of doping. The absorbance spectra were used to determine the optical band gap of the samples. The optical photoluminescence (PL) spectra of both ZnO and AZO nanopowder are obviously influenced by the increasing temperature and Al doping content, respectively. Different optical properties of ZnO and AZO were observed for different contents of Al in ZnO. The band gap of AZO nanopowder with different concentrations has been seen to be lower than that of undoped ZnO (3.10 eV), suggesting broad application potential. Also, the optical properties of ZnO were tailored by Al doping in the near visible region, suggesting various potential uses.
New Dinitrophenyl Hydrazones as Colorimetric Probes for Anions
Authors: Sousa Rui P. C. L. , Costa Susana P. G. , Figueira Rita B. , Raposo M. Manuela M.
Published: September 2022

Anion sensing is a dynamic research field due to the biological and environmental importance of some organic or inorganic anions. Hydrazones show promising properties in the design of anion chemosensors due to the presence of proton donor and acceptor sites in their structure. In this work, two novel dinitrophenyl hydrazones, functionalized with a quinoline moiety, were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques. The interaction between the new compounds 3a–b with different organic and inorganic anions was assessed. The two compounds showed a change in color from light yellow to magenta in the presence of H2PO4−, CH3COO−, BzO−, CN−, and F−. The interactions were analyzed by spectrophotometric titrations and the stoichiometry of the interaction was assessed by the method of continuous variation. Compound 3b showed a remarkable sensitivity to CN−, with a limit of detection of 0.35 µM. The interaction of compound 3b with CN− and F− was also analyzed by 1H NMR titrations, showing that an increasing concentration of anions induce a deprotonation of the NH and OH groups.
A Comparative Study of the Method to Rapid Identification of the Mural Pigments by Combining LIBS-Based Dataset and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Sun Duixiong , Zhang Yiming , Yin Yaopeng , Zhang Zhao , Qian Hengli , Wang Yarui , Yu Zongren , Su Bomin , Dong Chenzhong , Su Maogen
Published: September 2022

Due to the similar chemical composition and matrix effect, the accurate identification of mineral pigments on wall paintings has brought great challenges. This work implemented an identification study on three mineral pigments with similar chemical compositions by combining LIBS technology with the K-nearest neighbor algorithm (KNN), random forest (RF support vector machine (SVM), back propagation artificial neural network (Bp-ANN) and convolutional neural network (CNN) to find the most suitable identification method for mural research. Using the SelectKBest algorithm, 300 characteristic lines with the largest difference among the three pigments were determined. The identification models of KNN, RF, SVM, Bp-ANN and CNN were established and optimized. The results showed that, except for the KNN model, the identification accuracy of other models for mock-up mural samples was above 99%. However, only the identification accuracy of 2D-CNN models reached above 94% for actual mural samples. Therefore, the 2D-CNN model was determined as the most suitable model for the identification and analysis of mural pigments.
Beaded Coronary Aneurysm in Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Tai I-Hsin , Hsieh Kai-Sheng , Kuo Ho-Chang
Published: September 2022

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a febrile systemic vasculitis that mainly affects children aged under five years old. The aneurysm formation of the coronary artery is the most common complication after KD. We report a case with multiple coronary aneurysm formation and a special pattern ofbeaded aneurysm after KD and review the form ofcoronary aneurysms in different diseases.
Intrinsic Kidney Pathology in Children and Adolescents Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wu Henry H. L. , Shenoy Mohan , Kalra Philip A. , Chinnadurai Rajkumar
Published: September 2022

Global COVID-19 vaccination programs for children and adolescents have been developed with international clinical trial data confirming COVID-19 mRNA vaccine safety and efficacy for the pediatric population. The impact of COVID-19 vaccination in the kidneys is thought to be explained by a complex immune-mediated relationship between the two, although the pathophysiological mechanisms of how COVID-19 vaccination potentially induces kidney pathology are not presently well known. Whilst intrinsic kidney pathologies following COVID-19 vaccination have been reported in adults, such cases are only being recently reported with greater frequency in children and adolescents. Conforming to the PRISMA checklist, we conducted a systematic review of the current literature to provide an overview on the range of intrinsic kidney pathologies that have been reported following COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents. All English language research articles published on or before 30 June 2022 reporting new-onset or relapsed intrinsic kidney pathology in children or adolescents (≤18 years) following COVID-19 vaccination were selected for qualitative analysis. Out of 18 cases from the 13 published articles selected, there were 10 cases of IgA nephropathy (1 case of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis requiring acute hemodialysis), 5 cases of minimal change disease (MCD), 1 case of concurrent MCD/tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) and 2 cases of TIN. There is no indication currently to avoid vaccination, unless specific circumstances exist, as the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination far outweigh its risks. Concluding the findings from our systematic review based on preliminary evidence, potential adverse effects to the kidney from COVID-19 vaccination affects a small number of children and adolescents among the many who have been vaccinated. There remains good reason at present to support vaccination of children and adolescents with a greater morbidity status, such as those living with preexisting chronic kidney disease. Close observation of all children and adolescents receiving COVID-19 vaccination is recommended, particularly in those with preceding intrinsic kidney pathology to identify risks of relapsed disease.
A New Way to Obtain Climate Files in Areas with the Presence of Microclimates by Applying the Sandia Method: A Galician Case Study
Authors: Couce-Casanova Antonio , de Dios Rodríguez-García Juan , Lamas María Isabel , Orosa José A.
Published: September 2022

In order to obtain reliable energy simulation results, it is essential to have accurate climate files corresponding to specific geographical locations. The present work describes a selection process of the Typical Meteorological Months (TMM) that will generate the Typical Meteorological Years (TMY) in eight locations of the Community of Galicia for an analysis period between 2008 and 2017 (10 years). The region of Galicia, located in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, due to its particular orography, is prone to the generation of differentiated microclimates in relatively close locations. The process of selecting the typical meteorological months has been carried out following the Sandia Laboratories method. In the present work, data from terrestrial meteorological stations have been combined with solar radiation data obtained from satellite images. Finally, for the validation and comparative study of results, files have been generated in Energy Plus Weather (epw) format. Trends have been checked and typical statistics have been used to analyse the correlations between the files generated with the Sandia method, and the usual reference files (LT, WY, BY). It is observed that with the eight files generated, new differentiated climates are detected, which will affect the improvement of the precision of the energy simulations of buildings that are going to be carried out. For example, in the case of the Campus Lugo and Pedro Murias stations, located in the same climatic zone according to Spanish regulations, differences are observed in the annual averages: DTm (13.7%), WV (41%) or GHI (9%).