bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Probiotic-Based Oral Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant B.1.1.529
Authors: Chau Eddie Chung Ting , Kwong Tsz Ching , Pang Chun Keung , Chan Lee Tung , Chan Andrew Man Lok , Yao Xiaoqiang , Tam John Siu Lun , Chan Shun Wan , Leung George Pak Heng , Tai William Chi Shing , Kwan Yiu Wa
Published: September 2023

COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is still affecting the entire world via the rapid emergence of new contagious variants. Vaccination remains the most effective prevention strategy for viral infection, yet not all countries have sufficient access to vaccines due to limitations in manufacturing and transportation. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop an easy-to-use, safe, and low-cost vaccination approach. Genetically modified microorganisms, especially probiotics, are now commonly recognized as attractive vehicles for delivering bioactive molecules via oral and mucosal routes. In this study, Lactobacillus casei has been selected as the oral vaccine candidate based on its’ natural immunoadjuvant properties and the ability to resist acidic gastric environment, to express antigens of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant B.1.1.529 with B-cell and T-cell epitopes. This newly developed vaccine, OMGVac, was shown to elicit a robust IgG systemic immune response against the spike protein of Omicron variant B.1.1.529 in Golden Syrian hamsters. No adverse effects were found throughout this study, and the overall safety was evaluated in terms of physiological and histopathological examinations of different organs harvested. In addition, this study illustrated the use of the recombinant probiotic as a live delivery vector in the initiation of systemic immunity, which shed light on the future development of next-generation vaccines to combat emerging infectious diseases.
The Promising Role of a Zebrafish Model Employed in Neural Regeneration Following a Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Zeng Chih-Wei , Tsai Huai-Jen
Published: September 2023

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event that results in a wide range of physical impairments and disabilities. Despite the advances in our understanding of the biological response to injured tissue, no effective treatments are available for SCIs at present. Some studies have addressed this issue by exploring the potential of cell transplantation therapy. However, because of the abnormal microenvironment in injured tissue, the survival rate of transplanted cells is often low, thus limiting the efficacy of such treatments. Many studies have attempted to overcome these obstacles using a variety of cell types and animal models. Recent studies have shown the utility of zebrafish as a model of neural regeneration following SCIs, including the proliferation and migration of various cell types and the involvement of various progenitor cells. In this review, we discuss some of the current challenges in SCI research, including the accurate identification of cell types involved in neural regeneration, the adverse microenvironment created by SCIs, attenuated immune responses that inhibit nerve regeneration, and glial scar formation that prevents axonal regeneration. More in-depth studies are needed to fully understand the neural regeneration mechanisms, proteins, and signaling pathways involved in the complex interactions between the SCI microenvironment and transplanted cells in non-mammals, particularly in the zebrafish model, which could, in turn, lead to new therapeutic approaches to treat SCIs in humans and other mammals.
Comment on Vidart et al. Relationship among Low T3 Levels, Type 3 Deiodinase, Oxidative Stress, and Mortality in Sepsis and Septic Shock: Defining Patient Outcomes. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 3935
Authors: Tzeng I-Shiang
Published: September 2023

In a previously published article, Vidart and colleagues conducted a prospective cohort study to explore the correlation between T3 levels and the risk of sepsis and septic shock in patients, with a follow-up period of 28 days or until deceased. The authors concluded that patients with sepsis and septic shock exhibited a significantly high risk of having low T3 levels. This research provides valuable insights into the clinical perspective in this particular field. However, certain clinical considerations should be addressed to enhance the study’s merit for researchers.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Purple and Green Flowering Chinese Cabbage and Functional Analyses of BrMYB114 Gene
Authors: Fu Mei , Guo Juxian , Tang Kang , Jiang Shizheng , Luo Shanwei , Luo Wenlong , Khan Imran , Li Guihua
Published: September 2023

Flowering Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa var. parachinensis) is one of the most popular vegetables in the south of China. As an antioxidant, anthocyanin is an important quality trait in vegetables, and the gene related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in purple flowering Chinese cabbage is also important. In this study, two flowering Chinese cabbage with extreme colors in the stem were used as materials for transcriptome analysis. RNA-seq analysis showed that 6811 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 295 transcription factors. Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavone and flavanol biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were found to be significantly enriched in the purple flowering Chinese cabbage. A total of 25 DEGs associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis were found at a higher expression in purple flowering Chinese cabbage than in green flowering Chinese cabbage. Bioinformatics analysis shows that BrMYB114 is a candidate gene for the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis, and heterologous expression analysis of BrMYB114 in Nicotiana benthamiana indicates that BrMYB114 functions in anthocyanin biosynthesis. Therefore, our findings provide vital evidence for elucidating the molecular mechanism in the purple stem in flowering Chinese cabbage.
Photonics of Some Monomethine Cyanine Dyes in Solutions and in Complexes with Biomolecules
Authors: Pronkin Pavel G. , Tatikolov Alexander S.
Published: September 2023

In search of new probes for biomolecules, the spectral fluorescent study of four monomethine cyanine dyes (MCD), both unsymmetrical and symmetrical, has been carried out in different organic solvents, in aqueous buffer solutions, and in the presence of DNA and HSA. The complexation of MCD with biomacromolecules leads to a steep growth of the fluorescence intensity. Complexes of MCD with dsDNA and HSA of various types were modeled in silico by molecular docking. Experiments on thermal dissociation of dsDNA in the presence of MCD showed the formation of intercalative complexes of MCD with DNA. Quenching of intrinsic fluorescence of HSA by MCD occurred with rate constants much higher than the diffusion limit, that is, in dye–HSA complexes. Effective constants of MCD complexation with the biomacromolecules were estimated. MCD 1 has the best characteristics as a possible fluorescent probe for dsDNA and can serve as a sensitive and selective probe for dsDNA in the presence of HSA. Photochemical properties of MCD complexed with DNA have been also studied. An increase in the quantum yield of the triplet states of MCD in complexes with DNA has been found, which may be important for using these dyes as potential candidates in photodynamic therapy.
Relationship between the Consumption of Fermented Red Beetroot Juice and Levels of Perfluoroalkyl Substances in the Human Body’s Fluids and Blood Parameters
Authors: Surma Magdalena , Sawicki Tomasz , Piskuła Mariusz , Wiczkowski Wiesław
Published: September 2023

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of fluorinated, organic, man-made chemicals; they do not occur naturally in the environment. This study aimed to determine the profile and content of PFASs in the volunteers’ blood plasma and urine after the consumption of fermented red beetroot juice and then correlated it with the blood parameters. Over 42 days, 24 healthy volunteers ingested 200 mL/60 kg of body weight of fermented red beetroot juice. PFASs were analyzed using the micro-HPLC-MS/MS method. Five perfluoroalkyl substances were found in the volunteers’ body fluids. After consuming the juice, it was discovered that regarding the perfluorocarboxylic acids, a downward trend was observed, while regarding the perfluoroalkane sulfonates, and their plasma content showed a statistically significant upward trend. Analysis of the hematology parameters indicated that the intake of fermented red beetroot juice showed a significant decrease in mean corpuscular volume (MCV), platelets concentration, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR) at the significance level p < 0.01, and hematocrit (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the dietary intervention also indicated a significant (p < 0.01) increase in corpuscular/cellular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). In the case of blood biochemistry, no significant change was observed in the blood samples after the intake of the fermented beetroot juice. However, a decreasing tendency of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein concentration (LDL-C) was observed. Based on the presented results, there is a need to analyze and monitor health-promoting food regarding undesirable substances and their impact on consumer health.
Room-Temperature Hydrogen-Sensitive Pt-SnO2 Composite Nanoceramics: Contrasting Roles of Pt Nano-Catalysts Loaded via Two Different Methods
Authors: Zhao Jieting , Song Jiannan , Lu Xilai , Wu Menghan , Yan Zhiqiao , Chen Feng , Chen Wanping
Published: September 2023

Soluble noble metal salts are widely used for loading noble metals as nano-catalysts in many applications. In this paper, Pt-SnO2 composite nanoceramics were prepared from SnO2 nanoparticles and H2PtCl6 using two Pt loading methods separately: for the solution reduction method, a H2PtCl6 solution was added to a suspension of SnO2 and zinc powder to form Pt on SnO2 nanoparticles, and for the impregnation method, Pt was formed from H2PtCl6 in the course of sintering. Although a series of samples prepared using both Pt loading methods showed a solid response to H2 at room temperature, the ones prepared using the solution reduction method exhibited much better room-temperature hydrogen-sensing characteristics. For two samples of 0.5 wt% Pt and sintered at 825 °C, the response value for the sample prepared using the solution reduction method was 9700 to 1% H2–20% O2-N2, which was much larger than the value of 145 for the sample prepared using the impregnation method. Samples prepared using the two Pt loading methods have similar microstructures characterized via XRD, FESEM, EDS, TEM, and HRTEM. However, the residual chlorine content in those using the impregnation method was higher than those using the solution reduction method according to the analysis. It is proposed that the striking difference in room-temperature hydrogen sensing characteristics among samples prepared using these two different Pt loading methods separately resulted from their different chlorine removal processes. This study demonstrates the importance of a proper method for loading noble metals from their soluble salts as nano-catalysts in many applications.
Watershed-Mediated Ecomorphological Variation: A Case Study with the Twin-Striped Clubtail Dragonfly (Hylogomphus geminatus)
Authors: Girgente Joseph S. , McIntyre Nancy E.
Published: September 2023

Anthropogenic land-cover change is modifying ecosystems at an accelerating rate. Changes to ecomorphologically variable taxa within those ecosystems serve as early-warning signs that resources on which humans and other animals depend are being altered. One known ecomorphologically variable taxon is Hylogomphus geminatus, a species of dragonfly in the southeastern United States that shows pronounced variation in total body length across its limited geographic range. We measured total length of live as well as preserved museum specimens of H. geminatus and the sympatric species Progomphus obscurus (as a means for comparison). Both species showed significant size differences linked to HUC-8 watersheds in which they occur. H. geminatus showed additional significant differences on either side of the Apalachicola River, Florida, for all comparisons by sex. In overlapping watersheds, the species tended to show the same trends in length relative to their respective averages. Smaller body length was associated with more urban and agricultural land cover. These findings indicate that ecomorphological variation is tied to the watershed scale and point to significant variations on either side of the Apalachicola River. More thorough future analyses would be needed to verify trends in body length and identify the drivers behind them.
Seasonal Patterns in the Frequency of Candidatus Liberibacter Asiaticus in Populations of Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in Florida
Authors: Ebert Timothy A. , Shawer Dalia , Brlansky Ron H. , Rogers Michael E.
Published: September 2023

Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) is one of the putative causal agents of huanglongbing, which is a serious disease in citrus production. The pathogen is transmitted by Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae). As an observational study, six groves in central Florida and one grove at the southern tip of Florida were sampled monthly from January 2008 through February 2012 (50 months). The collected psyllids were sorted by sex and abdominal color. Disease prevalence in adults peaked in November, with a minor peak in February. Gray/brown females had the highest prevalence, and blue/green individuals of either sex had the lowest prevalence. CLas prevalence in blue/green females was highly correlated with the prevalence in other sexes and colors. Thus, the underlying causes for seasonal fluctuations in prevalence operated in a similar fashion for all psyllids. The pattern was caused by larger nymphs displacing smaller ones from the optimal feeding sites and immunological robustness in different sex–color morphotypes. Alternative hypotheses were also considered. Improving our understanding of biological interactions and how to sample them will improve management decisions. We agree with other authors that psyllid management is critical year-round.
Vericiguat: The Fifth Harmony of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Falco Luigi , Brescia Benedetta , Catapano Dario , Martucci Maria Luigia , Valente Fabio , Gravino Rita , Contaldi Carla , Pacileo Giuseppe , Masarone Daniele
Published: September 2023

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction is a chronic and progressive syndrome that continues to be a substantial financial burden for health systems in Western countries. Despite remarkable advances in pharmacologic and device-based therapy over the last few years, patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction have a high residual risk of adverse outcomes, even when treated with optimal guideline-directed medical therapy and in a clinically stable state. Worsening heart failure episodes represent a critical event in the heart failure trajectory, carrying high residual risk at discharge and dismal short- or long-term prognosis. Recently, vericiguat, a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, has been proposed as a novel drug whose use is already associated with a reduction in heart failure-related hospitalizations in patients in guideline-directed medical therapy. In this review, we summarized the pathophysiology of the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase-cyclic guanosine monophosphate cascade in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the pharmacology of vericiguat as well as the evidence regarding their use in patients with HFrEF. Finally, tips and tricks for its use in standard clinical practice are provided.
Unexplained Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Diagnosed as a Cardiac Variant of Late-Onset Fabry Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Zhao Maomao , Niu Xiaowei , Bai Lu , Zhang Yinchang , Wang Ting , Wa Yongling , Wei Junchu , Dong Kang , Zhang Xin , Bai Ming
Published: September 2023

The cardiac variant of Fabry disease (FD) has high rates of missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis due to the lack of systemic symptoms. Here, we report a case of a 68-year-old female with delayed-onset FD presenting as concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with right bundle branch block, atrial fibrillation, and diastolic dysfunction, which was first presented with coronary artery spasm. Early cardiac-specific signs are crucial for diagnosing this disease due to the lack of extracardiac indications and the late onset of symptoms. This case raises a new red flag that patients with unexplained LVH and its atypical electrocardiographic (ECG) manifestations accompanied by diastolic dysfunction should be considered for FD. We also recommend further refinement of examinations associated with Fabry disease, which will contribute to the early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Circulating and Cardiac Tissue miRNAs in Children with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hailu Frehiwet T. , Karimpour-Fard Anis , Neltner Bonnie , Stauffer Brian L. , Lipshultz Steven , Miyamoto Shelley D. , Sucharov Carmen C.
Published: September 2023

microRNAs (miRs) are small non-coding single-stranded RNAs that regulate gene expression. We previously evaluated expression of miRs in the cardiac tissue of children with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) using miRNA-seq. However, a comparative analysis of serum and cardiac miRs has not been performed in this population. The current study aimed to evaluate miR levels in the serum of pediatric DCM patients compared to healthy non-failing (NF) donor controls and investigate the association between miR levels in tissue and sera from the same pediatric DCM patients. Defining the relationship between serum and tissue miRs may allow the use of circulating miRs as surrogate markers of cardiac miRs. miR levels were investigated through miR-array in sera [n = 10 NF, n = 12 DCM] and miR-seq in tissue (n = 10 NF, n = 12 DCM). Pathway analysis was investigated using the miR enrichment analysis and annotation tool (miEAA) for the five miRs commonly dysregulated in the sera and tissue of pediatric DCM patients. Functional analysis of miRs commonly dysregulated in the sera and tissue of pediatric DCM patients suggests altered pathways related to cell growth, differentiation and proliferation, inflammation, mitochondrial function, and metabolism. These findings suggest that circulating miRs could reflect altered levels of cardiac tissue miRs.
Nasal High-Flow (NHF) Improves Ventilation in Patients with Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)—A Physiological Study
Authors: Bräunlich Jens , Köhler Marcus , Wirtz Hubert
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Acute hypercapnic respiratory failure has a poor prognosis in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). Recent data demonstrated a positive effect of nasal high-flow (NHF) in patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Preliminary data also show benefits in several hypercapnic chronic lung diseases. Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize flow-dependent changes in mean airway pressure, breathing volumes, and breathing frequency and decreases in PCO2. Methods: Mean airway pressure was measured in the nasopharyngeal space. To evaluate breathing volumes, a polysomnographic device was used (16 patients). All subjects received 20, 30, 40, and 50 L/min and—to illustrate the effects—nCPAP and nBiPAP. Capillary blood gas analyses were performed in 25 hypercapnic ILD subjects before and 5 h after the use of NHF. Additionally, comfort and dyspnea during the use of NHF were surveyed. Results: NHF resulted in a small flow-dependent increase in mean airway pressure. Tidal volume was unchanged and breathing rate decreased. The calculated minute volume decreased by 20 and 30 L/min NHF breathing. In spite of this fact, hypercapnia decreased at a flow rate of 24 L/min. Additionally, an improvement in dyspnea was observed. Conclusions: NHF leads to a reduction in paCO2. This is most likely achieved by a washout of the respiratory tract and a reduction in functional dead space. NHF enhances the effectiveness of breathing in ILD patients by the reduction in respiratory rate. In summary, NHF works as an effective ventilatory support device in hypercapnic ILD patients.
Estimated Pulse Wave Velocity in the Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation
Authors: Kim Hack-Lyoung , Joh Hyun Sung , Lim Woo-Hyun , Seo Jae-Bin , Kim Sang-Hyun , Zo Joo-Hee , Kim Myung-A
Published: September 2023

Background The prognostic value of estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV) has been infrequently explored in high-risk patient groups. Our study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of ePWV among patients undergoing a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with a drug-eluting stent (DES). Methods A total of 4119 consecutive subjects who underwent a PCI with a DES (mean age, 67.1 ± 11.6 years and 33.1% were female) were retrospectively analyzed. ePWV was calculated based on the patient’s age and mean blood pressure. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, and ischemic stroke, were evaluated. Results During a median follow-up duration of 3.51 years (interquartile range, 1.35–6.37 years), there were 746 MACEs (18.1%). A multivariable analysis showed that a higher ePWV was associated with a higher MACE incidence (middle tertile vs. the lowest tertile: hazard ratio [HR], 2.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.81–3.42; p < 0.001; the highest tertile vs. the lowest tertile: HR, 6.18; 95% CI, 4.33–8.80; p < 0.001) The inclusion of ePWV data significantly increased the global chi-square values when added to the clinical information (from 96 to 128; p < 0.001). Conclusion ePWV demonstrated a significant association with MACEs in patients who underwent DES implantation. Given its relative simplicity to calculate, ePWV could potentially serve as a valuable instrument for stratifying cardiovascular risks within this high-risk patient population.
Multimorbidity Patterns in the Urban Population in Poland
Authors: Chlabicz Małgorzata , Jamiołkowski Jacek , Sowa Paweł , Zalewska Magdalena , Kiszkiel Łukasz , Ciołkiewicz Mariusz , Motkowski Radosław , Kowalska Irina , Minarowski Łukasz , Kamiński Karol A.
Published: September 2023

A number of studies have been conducted on multimorbidity; however, there are different patterns in various countries, ethnicities and social groups. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of multimorbidity (physical diseases) in the urban population in Poland. In this population-based study, we examined multimorbidity stratified by sex, age, educational attainment and professional activity. Sixty-seven conditions were identified based on self-reported history (known conditions) and completed examinations (unknown conditions). Among the overall individuals aged 20–80 years, 1422 (88.2%) of the total 1612 individuals, 787 (88.9%) of 885 women and 635 (87.3%) of 727 men were diagnosed with at least two chronic conditions. On average, 5.25 ± 3.5 conditions occurred in the study population. The number of diagnosed conditions per individual increased with age and decreased with higher educational levels, with differing pathways in women and men. Women showed a higher number of conditions than men in the same age groups and educational levels. Only among students, the level of multimorbidity was lower in women than in men. In the other occupational activity categories, it was already higher in women. The level of multimorbidity in employed and unemployed individuals in a particular sex cluster was similar. We identified a high prevalence of multimorbidity in the urban population in Poland varying by age, sex, education attainment and professional activity. Our work may help in the selection of appropriate screening tests based on age, sex and educational attainment in order to recognise multimorbidity based on both known and unknown conditions. Ultimately, it may impact clinical practice, service delivery and study design.
Incidence and Outcomes of Valve-in-Valve Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Failed Bioprosthetic Valves
Authors: Stolte Thorald , Boeddinghaus Jasper , Allegra Giampiero , Leibundgut Gregor , Reuthebuch Oliver , Kaiser Christoph , Müller Christian , Nestelberger Thomas
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become a widely used, comparably efficient and safe alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Its utilization continues to grow, especially among younger patients. Despite improvements in durability, degeneration and subsequent re-interventions of failed prosthetic valves are still common. Even though valve-in-valve procedures have become more frequent, little is known about the trends over time or about clinical and echocardiographic long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent a valve-in-valve procedure between December 2011 and December 2022 in a large tertiary university hospital were analyzed. Primary outcomes were defined as procedural and device successes as well as event-free survival. Secondary analyses between subsets of patients divided by index valve and date of procedure were performed. Results: Among 1407 procedures, 58 (4%) were valve-in-valve interventions, with an increased frequency observed over time. Overall, technical success was achieved in 88% and device success in 85% of patients. Complications were predominantly minor, with similar success rates among TAVR-in-SAVR (TiSAVR) and TAVR-in-TAVR (TiTAVR). Notably, there were significant and lasting improvements in mean echocardiographic gradients at 1 year. Event-free survival was 76% at one month and 69% at one year. Conclusions: Over the last decade, a rising trend of valve-in-valve procedures was observed. Despite an increase in procedures, complications show a contrasting decline with improved technical and device success over time. TiSAVR and TiTAVR showed comparable rates of procedural and device success as well as similar outcomes, highlighting the utility of valve-in-valve procedures in an aging population.
Identification of Glaucoma in Diabetics Using the Laguna-ONhE Colourimetric Method and OCT Spectralis
Authors: Gonzalez-Hernandez Marta , Betancor-Caro Nisamar , Mesa-Lugo Fatima , Rodriguez-Talavera Ivan , Pareja-Rios Alicia , Guedes-Guedes Isabel , Estevez-Jorge Beatriz , Trujillo-Blanco Maricela , Cordova-Villegas Roberto , Espinoza-Gonzalez Juan , Siguero-Martin Leticia , Goya-Gonzalez Carolina , Rodriguez-Dominguez Maria , Gonzalez-Hernandez Daniel , Gonzalez de la Rosa Manuel
Published: September 2023

Background: Previous retrospective results are evaluated prospectively and blinded. Methods: A total of 221 eyes previously classified as normal (G1), 279 as moderate risk of glaucoma (G2) and 217 as high risk (G3) according to the Globin Discriminant Function (GDF) Laguna-ONhE index were examined with OCT Spectralis- Results: In G1, the Bruch’s Membrane Opening Minimum Rim Width (BMO-MRW) was 332 ± 55 microns; in G2, it was 252 ± 47 (p < 0.0001); and in G3, 231 ± 44 (p < 0.0001). In G1, the 1% and 5% percentiles were 233 and 248, respectively; in G2, they were lower in 28.80% and 42.29% of cases, respectively; and in G3, in 50.23% and 63.59% of cases, respectively. Most of the cases were normal-tension glaucomas. Laguna-ONhE indices showed a curvilinear correlation with BMO-MRW results. The Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer (RNFL) showed a poor relationship with BMO. Assuming G1 to be truly normal, BMO-MRW would have a Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve area of 0.901 for G2 and G3 and 0.651 for RNFL. A significant reduction in pixels corresponding to vessels was found in G2 and G3 vs. G1 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: In some cases, these defects appear to be mainly glaucomatous, and in others, they are associated with diabetic microangiopathy. In normal tension glaucoma, RNFL defects may be less severe than those inside the nerve.
The Relevance of Intraoperative Clinical and Accelerometric Measurements for Thalamotomy Outcome
Authors: Smid Annemarie , Oterdoom D. L. Marinus , Pauwels Rik W. J. , Tamasi Katalin , Elting Jan Willem J. , Absalom Anthony R. , van Laar Teus , van Dijk J. Marc C. , Drost Gea
Published: September 2023

Thalamotomy alleviates medication-refractory tremors in patients with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Essential tremor (ET), and Holmes tremor (HT). However, limited data are available on tremor intensity during different thalamotomy stages. Also, the predictive value of the intraoperative tremor status for treatment outcomes remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to quantify tremor status during thalamotomy and postoperatively. Data were gathered between January 2020 and June 2023 during consecutive unilateral thalamotomy procedures in patients with PD (n = 13), ET (n = 8), and HT (n = 3). MDS-UPDRS scores and tri-axial accelerometry data were obtained during rest, postural, and intention tremor tests. Measurements were performed intraoperatively (1) before lesioning-probe insertion, (2) directly after lesioning-probe insertion, (3) during coagulation, (4) directly after coagulation, and (5) 4–6 months post-surgery. Accelerometric data were recorded continuously during the coagulation process. Outcome measures included MDS-UPDRS tremor scores and accelerometric parameters (peak frequency, tremor amplitude, and area under the curve of power (AUCP)). Tremor intensity was assessed for the insertion effect (1–2), during coagulation (3), post-coagulation effect (1–4), and postoperative effect (1–5). Following insertion and coagulation, tremor intensity improved significantly compared to baseline (p < 0.001). The insertion effect clearly correlated with the postoperative effect (ρ = 0.863, p < 0.001). Both tremor amplitude and AUCP declined gradually during coagulation. Peak frequency did not change significantly intraoperatively. In conclusion, the study data show that both the intraoperative insertion effect and the post-coagulation effect are good predictors for thalamotomy outcomes.
Utility of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in the Detection of Low Bone Mass—A Systematic Review
Authors: Poiana Ioana Ruxandra , Dobre Ramona , Popescu Razvan-Ionut , Pituru Silviu-Mirel , Bucur Alexandru
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used in the preoperative qualitative and quantitative assessment of dental implant sites, offering dimensional accuracy, spatial resolution, gray density, and contrast comparable to those of classical CT scan, yet with disputable ability to determine bone mass density. Materials and methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed using the PubMed and SCOPUS databases, with terms referring to low bone mass and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Results: Sixteen studies were included in the review. The results show different perspectives, but the evidence favors the use of CBCT, combined with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry bone density scan (DXA) evaluation, for the assessment of the osteoporosis status of the aging population and, more specifically, in postmenopausal women. Radiographic density (RD) values of the dens and the left part of the first cervical vertebra show the strongest correlation coefficients and the highest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for predicting osteoporosis (OP) in the lumbar vertebrae and the femoral neck. Conclusions: Our review suggests the potential of CBCT as a screening tool for patients with low bone mass using different radiomorphometric indices. Linear measurements of the inferior mandibular cortex were lower in osteoporotic individuals, indicating the perspective of CBCT also as a diagnostic tool for this disease.
Rest and Stress Left Atrial Dysfunction in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Zagatina Angela , Rivadeneira Ruiz Maria , Ciampi Quirino , Wierzbowska-Drabik Karina , Kasprzak Jaroslaw , Kalinina Elena , Begidova Irina , Peteiro Jesus , Arbucci Rosina , Marconi Sofia , Lowenstein Jorge , Boshchenko Alla , Manganelli Fiore , Čelutkienė Jelena , Morrone Doralisa , Merli Elisa , Re Federica , Borguezan-Daros Clarissa , Haberka Maciej , Saad Ariel K. , Djordjevic-Dikic Ana , Ratanasit Nithima Chaowalit , Rigo Fausto , Colonna Paolo , Pretto José Luis de Castro e Silva , Mori Fabio , D’Alfonso Maria Grazia , Ostojic Miodrag , Stanetic Bojan , Preradovic Tamara Kovacevic , Costantino Fabio , Barbieri Andrea , Citro Rodolfo , Pitino Annalisa , Pepi Mauro , Carerj Scipione , Pellikka Patricia A. , Picano Eugenio
Published: September 2023

Background: Left atrial (LA) myopathy with paroxysmal and permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequent in chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) but sometimes occult at rest and elicited by stress. Aim: This study sought to assess LA volume and function at rest and during stress across the spectrum of AF. Methods: In a prospective, multicenter, observational study design, we enrolled 3042 patients [age = 64 ± 12; 63.8% male] with known or suspected CCS: 2749 were in sinus rhythm (SR, Group 1); 191 in SR with a history of paroxysmal AF (Group 2); and 102 were in permanent AF (Group 3). All patients underwent stress echocardiography (SE). We measured left atrial volume index (LAVI) in all patients and LA Strain reservoir phase (LASr) in a subset of 486 patients. Results: LAVI increased from Group 1 to 3, both at rest (Group 1 = 27.6 ± 12.2, Group 2 = 31.6 ± 12.9, Group 3 = 43.3 ± 19.7 mL/m2, p < 0.001) and at peak stress (Group 1 = 26.2 ± 12.0, Group 2 = 31.2 ± 12.2, Group 3 = 43.9 ± 19.4 mL/m2, p < 0.001). LASr progressively decreased from Group 1 to 3, both at rest (Group 1 = 26.0 ± 8.5%, Group 2 = 23.2 ± 11.2%, Group 3 = 8.5 ± 6.5%, p < 0.001) and at peak stress (Group 1 = 26.9 ± 10.1, Group 2 = 23.8 ± 11.0 Group 3 = 10.7 ± 8.1%, p < 0.001). Stress B-lines (≥2) were more frequent in AF (Group 1 = 29.7% vs. Group 2 = 35.5% vs. Group 3 = 57.4%, p < 0.001). Inducible ischemia was less frequent in SR (Group 1 = 16.1% vs. Group 2 = 24.7% vs. Group 3 = 24.5%, p = 0.001). Conclusions: In CCS, rest and stress LA dilation and reservoir dysfunction are often present in paroxysmal and, more so, in permanent AF and are associated with more frequent inducible ischemia and pulmonary congestion during stress.
Effect of Dapagliflozin on Patients with Rheumatic Heart Disease Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Asrial An Aldia , Reviono Reviono , Soetrisno Soetrisno , Setianto Budi Yuli , Widyaningsih Vitri , Nurwati Ida , Wasita Brian , Pudjiastuti Anggit
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Mitral stenosis is the most common rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Inflammation and fibrosis are the primary pathophysiology, resulting in left atrial stress and dysfunction. Dapagliflozin is a new heart failure treatment with anti-inflammation and anti-fibrosis effects from previous studies. However, the specific role of dapagliflozin in RHD mitral stenosis is unknown. This study aims to investigate (i) the effect of dapagliflozin on biomarkers of fibrosis, NT-pro BNP levels and left atrial function; (ii) the relationship between the changes in fibrosis biomarkers with left atrial function and NT-pro BNP levels. (2) Methods: An open-label randomized study was conducted on 33 RHD mitral stenosis patients divided into a dapagliflozin group which received 10 mg dapagliflozin and standard therapy, and a control group which only received standard therapy. All patients were examined for levels of PICP, MMP-1/TIMP-1 ratio, TGF-β1, NT-proBNP, mitral valve mean pressure gradient (MPG), and net atrioventricular compliance (Cn) pre- and post-intervention. (3) Results: This study found a significant increase in PICP and TGF-β1 and a reduction in the MMP-1/TIMP-1 ratio in the dapagliflozin group and the control group (p < 0.05). In the dapagliflozin group, the levels of NT-pro BNP decreased significantly (p = 0.000), with a delta of decreased NT-pro BNP levels also significantly greater in the dapagliflozin group compared to the control (p = 0.034). There was a significant increase in Cn values in the dapagliflozin group (p = 0.017), whereas there was a decrease in the control group (p = 0.379). Delta of changes in Cn values between the dapagliflozin and control groups also showed a significant value (p = 0.049). The decreased MPG values of the mitral valve were found in both the dapagliflozin and control groups, with the decrease in MPG significantly greater in the dapagliflozin group (p = 0.031). There was no significant correlation between changes in the value of fibrosis biomarkers with Cn and NT-pro BNP (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: This study implies that the addition of dapagliflozin to standard therapy for RHD mitral stenosis patients provides benefits, as evidenced by an increase in net atrioventricular compliance and decreases in the MPG value of the mitral valve and NT-pro BNP levels (p < 0.05). This improvement was not directly related to changes in fibrosis biomarkers, as these biomarkers showed ongoing fibrosis even with dapagliflozin administration.
Radiomic Analysis of Quantitative T2 Mapping and Conventional MRI in Predicting Histologic Grade of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Ye Lei , Wang Yayi , Xiang Wanxin , Yao Jin , Liu Jiaming , Song Bin
Published: September 2023

We explored the added value of a radiomic strategy based on quantitative transverse relaxation (T2) mapping and conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the histologic grade of bladder cancer (BCa) preoperatively. Patients who were suspected of BCa underwent pelvic MRI (including T2 mapping and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) before any treatment. All patients with histological-proved urothelial BCa were included. We constructed different prediction models using the mean signal values and radiomic features from both T2 mapping and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. The diagnostic performance of each model or parameter was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves. In total, 92 patients were finally included (training cohort, n = 64; testing cohort, n = 28); among these, 71 had high-grade BCa. In the testing cohort, the T2-mapping radiomic model achieved the highest prediction performance (area under the curve (AUC), 0.87; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.73–1.0) compared with the ADC radiomic model (AUC, 0.77; 95%CI, 0.56–0.97), and the joint radiomic model of 0.78 (95%CI, 0.61–0.96). Our results demonstrated that radiomic mapping could provide more information than direct evaluation of T2 and ADC values in differentiating histological grades of BCa. Additionally, among the radiomic models, the T2-mapping radiomic model outperformed the ADC and joint radiomic models.
Attribute-Centric and Synthetic Data Based Privacy Preserving Methods: A Systematic Review
Authors: Majeed Abdul
Published: September 2023

Anonymization techniques are widely used to make personal data broadly available for analytics/data-mining purposes while preserving the privacy of the personal information enclosed in it. In the past decades, a substantial number of anonymization techniques were developed based on the famous four privacy models such as k-anonymity, ℓ-diversity, t-closeness, and differential privacy. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on developing attribute-centric anonymization methods, i.e., methods that exploit the properties of the underlying data to be anonymized to improve privacy, utility, and/or computing overheads. In addition, synthetic data are also widely used to preserve privacy (privacy-enhancing technologies), as well as to meet the growing demand for data. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, none of the previous studies have covered the distinctive features of attribute-centric anonymization methods and synthetic data based developments. To cover this research gap, this paper summarizes the recent state-of-the-art (SOTA) attribute-centric anonymization methods and synthetic data based developments, along with the experimental details. We report various innovative privacy-enhancing technologies that are used to protect the privacy of personal data enclosed in various forms. We discuss the challenges and the way forward in this line of work to effectively preserve both utility and privacy. This is the first work that systematically covers the recent development in attribute-centric and synthetic-data-based privacy-preserving methods and provides a broader overview of the recent developments in the privacy domain.
Parametric Optimization of Powder-Mixed EDM of AA2014/Si3N4/Mg/Cenosphere Hybrid Composites Using Fuzzy Logic: Analysis of Mechanical, Machining, Microstructural, and Morphological Characterizations
Authors: Rajkumar G. , Saravanan M. , Bejaxhin A. Bovas Herbert , Sharma Shubham , Dwivedi Shashi Prakash , Kumar Rajeev , Singh Sunpreet
Published: September 2023

This research focuses on a comprehensive exploration of the experimental and mechanical aspects of the electrical discharge machining (EDM) process, specifically targeting the machining characteristics of AA2014/Si3N4/Mg/cenosphere hybrid composites. The aim is to optimize the process parameters for enhanced machining performance through a combination of testing, optimization, and modelling methodologies. The study examines the effects of key EDM variables—peak current, pulse on time, and pulse off time—on critical output responses: surface roughness (Ra), electrode wear rate (EWR), and material removal rate (MRR). Leveraging an L9 Taguchi orthogonal array experimental design, the impact of controllable factors on these responses is analysed. An integrated approach utilizing MATLAB’s logic toolbox and Mamdani’s technique is employed to model the EDM process, and a multiple-response performance index is calculated using fuzzy logic theory, enabling multiobjective optimizations. Furthermore, a mechanical behaviour evaluation of AA2014/Si3N4/Mg/cenosphere hybrid composites is performed through mechanical testing, with a comparison between experimental machining results and predicted values. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images reveal the presence of filler reinforcements within the base alloy, displaying an improved microstructure and uniform reinforcement dispersion. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the major elemental constituents—aluminium, silicon, and magnesium—in the hybrid composites. A microstructural analysis of the hybrid metal matrix composites (MMCs) prepared for EDM showcases closely packed reinforcement structures, circular ash-coloured spots indicating silicon and nitrates, and a fine dispersion of cenosphere reinforcement particles. The study’s outcomes demonstrate a promising application potential for these hybrid composites in various fields.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Path-Following Control Scheme for an Uncertain Under-Actuated Autonomous Marine Vehicle
Authors: Qu Xingru , Jiang Yuze , Zhang Rubo , Long Feifei
Published: September 2023

In this article, a deep reinforcement learning-based path-following control scheme is established for an under-actuated autonomous marine vehicle (AMV) in the presence of model uncertainties and unknown marine environment disturbances is presented. By virtue of light-of-sight guidance, a surge-heading joint guidance method is developed within the kinematic level, thereby enabling the AMV to follow the desired path accurately. Within the dynamic level, model uncertainties and time-varying environment disturbances are taken into account, and the reinforcement learning control method using the twin-delay deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) is developed for the under-actuated vehicle, where path-following actions are generated via the state space and hybrid rewards. Additionally, actor-critic networks are developed using the long-short time memory (LSTM) network, and the vehicle can successfully make a decision by the aid of historical states, thus enhancing the convergence rate of dynamic controllers. Simulation results and comprehensive comparisons on a prototype AMV demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness and superiority of the proposed LSTM-TD3-based path-following control scheme.
Ordovician Tsunamis: Summary of Hypotheses and Implications for Geoheritage Resources
Authors: Ruban Dmitry A. , Yashalova Natalia N.
Published: September 2023

Ordovician tsunamis have been hypothesized for more than 25 years, but the related knowledge is yet to be systematized. The published sources bearing the pieces of this knowledge were collected in the course of the specialized bibliographical survey, and these pieces of evidence were summarized and interpreted with special attention to the spatiotemporal distribution of Ordovician tsunamis. It is found that the latter were reported from many places of the world (24 localities are established), which represent the Gondwana periphery, some isolated continental blocks, and terranes. Tsunamis were hypothesized for all epochs of the considered period, but the evidence is especially numerous for the Middle Ordovician. The degree of certainty of the interpretations of these tsunamis is chiefly moderate. It appears that only a tiny portion of Ordovician tsunamis is known, but the amount of available information is expected, taking into account the possibility of finding very ancient tsunamis. The outcomes of this study contribute to a better awareness of the world’s geoheritage resources. The established localities representing Ordovician tsunamis can be considered potential geosites, two of which are promising start points for further, field-based research.
An Underwater Triboelectric Biomechanical Energy Harvester to Power the Electronic Tag of Marine Life
Authors: Liu Bo , Du Taili , Xu Xiaoyan , Liu Jianhua , Zhu Peng , Guo Linan , Li Yuanzheng , Wang Tianrun , Zou Yongjiu , Wang Hao , Xu Peng , Sun Peiting , Xu Minyi
Published: September 2023

Implantable electronic tags are crucial for the conservation of marine biodiversity. However, the power supply associated with these tags remains a significant challenge. In this study, an underwater flexible triboelectric nanogenerator (UF-TENG) was proposed to harvest the biomechanical energy from the movements of marine life, ensuring a consistent power source for the implantable devices. The UF-TENG, which is watertight by the protection of a hydrophobic poly(tetrafluoroethylene) film, consists of high stretchable carbon black-silicone as electrode and silicone as a dielectric material. This innovative design enhances the UF-TENG’s adaptability and biocompatibility with marine organisms. The UF-TENG’s performance was rigorously assessed under various conditions. Experimental data highlight a peak output of 14 V, 0.43 μA and 38 nC, with a peak power of 2.9 μW from only one unit. Notably, its performance exhibited minimal degradation even after three weeks, showing its excellent robustness. Furthermore, the UF-TENG is promising in the self-powered sensing of the environmental parameter and the marine life movement. Finally, a continuous power supply of an underwater temperature is achieved by paralleling UF-TENGs. These findings indicate the broad potential of UF-TENG technology in powering implantable electronic tags.