bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic and Metabolomic Analyses of a Piezosensitive Mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Application for Generation of Piezosensitive Niigata-Sake Yeast Strains
Authors: Shigematsu Toru , Kaneko Yuta , Ikezaki Minami , Kataoka Chihiro , Nomura Kazuki , Nakano Ayana , Aii Jotaro , Aoki Toshio , Kuribayashi Takashi , Kaneoke Mitsuoki , Hori Saori , Iguchi Akinori
Published: September 2021

A sparkling-type draft cloudy sake (Japanese rice wine), AWANAMA, was recently developed using high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatment as a non-thermal pasteurization method. This prototype sake has a high potential market value, since it retains the fresh taste and flavor similar to draft sake while avoiding over-fermentation. From an economic point of view, a lower pressure level for HHP pasteurization is still required. In this study, we carried out a genome analysis of a pressure-sensitive (piezosensitive) mutant strain, a924E1, which was generated by UV mutagenesis from a laboratory haploid Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain, KA31a. This mutant strain had a deletion of the COX1 gene region in the mitochondrial DNA and had deficient aerobic respiration and mitochondrial functions. A metabolomic analysis revealed restricted flux in the TCA cycle of the strain. The results enabled us to use aerobic respiration deficiency as an indicator for screening a piezosensitive mutant. Thus, we generated piezosensitive mutants from a Niigata-sake yeast strain, S9arg, which produces high levels of ethyl caproate but does not produce urea and is consequently suitable for brewing a high-quality sake. The resultant piezosensitive mutants showed brewing characteristics similar to the S9arg strain. This study provides a screening method for generating a piezosensitive yeast mutant as well as insight on a new way of applying HHP pasteurization.
Basement Mapping of the Fucino Basin in Central Italy by ITRESC Modeling of Gravity Data
Authors: Cella Federico , Nappi Rosa , Paoletti Valeria , Florio Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Sediments infilling in intermontane basins in areas with high seismic activity can strongly affect ground-shaking phenomena at the surface. Estimates of thickness and density distribution within these basin infills are crucial for ground motion amplification analysis, especially where demographic growth in human settlements has implied increasing seismic risk. We employed a 3D gravity modeling technique (ITerative RESCaling—ITRESC) to investigate the Fucino Basin (Apennines, central Italy), a half-graben basin in which intense seismic activity has recently occurred. For the first time in this region, a 3D model of the Meso-Cenozoic carbonate basement morphology was retrieved through the inversion of gravity data. Taking advantage of the ITRESC technique, (1) we were able to (1) perform an integration of geophysical and geological data constraints and (2) determine a density contrast function through a data-driven process. Thus, we avoided assuming a priori information. Finally, we provided a model that honored the gravity anomalies field by integrating many different kinds of depth constraints. Our results confirmed evidence from previous studies concerning the overall shape of the basin; however, we also highlighted several local discrepancies, such as: (a) the position of several fault lines, (b) the position of the main depocenter, and (c) the isopach map. We also pointed out the existence of a new, unknown fault, and of new features concerning known faults. All of these elements provided useful contributions to the study of the tectono-sedimentary evolution of the basin, as well as key information for assessing the local site-response effects, in terms of seismic hazards.
A Long-Term Record of Quaternary Facies Patterns and Palaeonvironmental Trends from the Po Plain (NE Italy) as Revealed by Bio-Sedimentary Data
Authors: Rossi Veronica , Amorosi Alessandro , Barbieri Giulia , Vaiani Stefano Claudio , Germano Matteo , Campo Bruno
Published: September 2021

Understanding Quaternary dynamics of delta-coastal plains across multiple glacial-interglacial cycles in the Milankovitch band (~100 kyrs) is crucial to achieve a robust evaluation of possible environmental response to future climate-change scenarios. In this work, we document the long-term bio-sedimentary record of core 204 S16 (~205 m long), which covers a wide portion of the post-MPR (Mid-Pleistocene Revolution) interval, taking advantage of the highly subsiding context of the SE Po Plain (NE Italy). Detailed facies characterization through an integrated sedimentological and meiofauna (benthic foraminifers and ostracods) approach allowed for the identification of a repetitive pattern of alluvial deposits alternating with four fossiliferous, paralic to shallow-marine units (Units 1–4). The transgressive surfaces identified at the base of these units mark major flooding events, forced by Holocene (Unit 4), Late Pleistocene (Unit 3) and Middle Pleistocene (Units 1, 2) interglacials. Distinct stratigraphic patterns typify the Middle Pleistocene interval, which includes coastal-marine (tidal inlet and bay) deposits. In contrast, lagoonal sediments record the maximum marine influence in the Late Pleistocene-Holocene succession. As a whole, the meiofauna tracks a regressive trend, with the deepest conditions recorded by the oldest Unit 1 (MIS 9/11 age?).
Continuum of Care UNAIDS Fast-Track Targets Evaluation of Patients Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Jianu Cristian , Itu-Mureşan Corina , Topan Adriana Violeta , Filipescu Irina , Jianu Mihaela Elena , Melincovici Carmen Stanca , Mihu Carmen Mihaela , Bolboacă Sorana D.
Published: September 2021

The current study evaluated the progress of continuum healthcare for patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection from Cluj County in two moments, 2016 and 2020, and compared the results to the Fast-Track targets (FTTs) proposed by the Joint United Nations Programme (UNAIDS) on HIV/AIDS. By the end of 2020, 368 out of 385 confirmed HIV-positive patients from Cluj County were under surveillance in our center, representing almost 95% of the patients living with HIV and knowing their diagnosis, compared to 87.9% in 2016. Nearly 97% of those in active follow-up from Cluj County were under antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 2020, compared to 89% in 2016. The number of virally suppressed patients from those under ART was almost 94% in 2020, compared to 82.7% in 2016, and the increase is observed regardless of the ART regime. A shift towards integrase strand transfer inhibitors, with a higher efficacy, fewer adverse effects, and fewer drug interactions, is observed, which could contribute to the decrease in HIV transmission.
Does the Direct Settlement Policy of Trans-Provincial Outpatient Expenses Aggravate the Siphoning Effect? An Empirical Study on Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Li Li , Zhou Qingyu , Yin Ting , Ji Zisheng , Zhang Lufa
Published: September 2021

To solve the problem of reimbursing trans-regional medical expenses, using only cross-regional manual reimbursement but not direct medical insurance card settlement, China implemented a pilot policy of direct settlement of trans-provincial outpatient expenses (DSTOE) in the Yangtze River Delta region. Due to the differences in inter-regional medical development, patients often migrate from areas with low-level medical resources to the high-level areas, a phenomenon that we define as the “siphoning” of trans-regional patients, which can cause a variety of problems. To study whether DSTOE aggravates the siphoning effect, we analyzed the changes in the volume of trans-provincial outpatient visits and conducted a questionnaire survey and factor analysis on the willingness of trans-provincial medical treatment under DSTOE. Results showed that manual reimbursement was gradually replaced by direct settlement, while the total volume was not increased significantly, and the ratio of outpatient visits flowing into and out from Shanghai decreased. The majority of questionnaire respondents confessed that their willingness toward trans-regional medical treatment increased, while their first choice of medical location was still mainly local, with only a few indicating that they would directly choose a cross-regional, higher-level medical institution. Spatial accessibility significantly restricted the seeking of trans-regional medical treatment, whereas age, education level, and policy awareness served as significant protective factors for the choice of medical location. In conclusion, due to space accessibility constraints, insufficient policy coverage, and the rationale for choice of location, DSTOE did not aggravate the siphoning effect of trans-regional patients.
Recent Trends in Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque Characterization
Authors: Gudigar Anjan , Nayak Sneha , Samanth Jyothi , Raghavendra U , A J Ashwal , Barua Prabal Datta , Hasan Md Nazmul , Ciaccio Edward J. , Tan Ru-San , Rajendra Acharya U.
Published: September 2021

Coronary artery disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its underlying histopathology is the atherosclerotic plaque, which comprises lipid, fibrous and—when chronic—calcium components. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and intravascular optical coherence tomography (IVOCT) performed during invasive coronary angiography are reference standards for characterizing the atherosclerotic plaque. Fine image spatial resolution attainable with contemporary coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) has enabled noninvasive plaque assessment, including identifying features associated with vulnerable plaques known to presage acute coronary events. Manual interpretation of IVUS, IVOCT and CCTA images demands scarce physician expertise and high time cost. This has motivated recent research into and development of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted methods for image processing, feature extraction, plaque identification and characterization. We performed parallel searches of the medical and technical literature from 1995 to 2021 focusing respectively on human plaque characterization using various imaging modalities and the use of AI-assisted computer aided diagnosis (CAD) to detect and classify atherosclerotic plaques, including their composition and the presence of high-risk features denoting vulnerable plaques. A total of 122 publications were selected for evaluation and the analysis was summarized in terms of data sources, methods—machine versus deep learning—and performance metrics. Trends in AI-assisted plaque characterization are detailed and prospective research challenges discussed. Future directions for the development of accurate and efficient CAD systems to characterize plaque noninvasively using CCTA are proposed.
Long-Term Clinical Study of Implants Placed in Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation Using Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate
Authors: Velasco-Ortega Eugenio , Sierra-Baztan Angela , Jiménez-Guerra Alvaro , España-López Antonio , Ortiz-Garcia Iván , Núñez-Márquez Enrique , Moreno-Muñoz Jesús , Rondón-Romero José Luis , López-López José , Monsalve-Guil Loreto
Published: September 2021

Introduction. The aim of this study was to show the long-term clinical outcomes of implants placed in maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MFSA) using beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP). Patients and methods. Maxillary patients were diagnosed for MFSA and used beta- β-TCP. After the lateral sinus surgery, implants were loaded at 6 months with restorations. The clinical follow-up was at 10 years. Results. One hundred and one patients (58 females and 43 males) were treated with MFSA. Twenty-nine patients (28.7%) had a history of periodontitis. Thirty-three patients (32.7%) were smokers. One hundred and twenty-one MFSA, 81 unilateral and 20 bilateral sites, with 234 implants were performed. The average vertical bone height available was 4.92 ± 1.83 mm. The average vertical bone gain obtained was 6.95 ± 2.19 mm following MFSA. The implant cumulative survival rate was 97.2%. Three implants (1.3%) were lost during the healing period. Six implants (2.6%) were lost by peri-implantitis. One hundred and fifteen restorations were placed in the patients. Mean marginal bone loss was 1.93 mm ± 1.03 mm. Six patients (27.3%) showed technical complications. Thirty-six implants (15.3%) in 14 patients (13.9%) were associated with peri-implantitis. Conclusions. This study indicates that treatment with implant-supported restoration by MFSA using β-TCP constitutes a successful implant approach.
Can We Build ‘Somewhere That You Want to Go’? Conducting Collaborative Mental Health Service Design with New Zealand’s Young People
Authors: Stubbing Jessica , Gibson Kerry
Published: September 2021

Globally, young people are at high risk of mental health problems, but have poor engagement with services. Several international models have emerged seeking to address this gap by providing youth-specific care designed in collaboration with young people. In this study, 94 young people in New Zealand participated in collaborative workshops exploring their vision of an ideal mental health service. Participants were aged 16–25. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify seven themes. These describe the ideal mental health service for these young people as comfortable, accessible, welcoming, embedded in the community, holistic, adaptable, and youth-focused. In addition to describing how services might better serve the needs of youth, this article outlines a method for adapting international principles for youth-friendly care to the specific needs of a population of young people. This article provides supporting evidence that services should consider how to improve their engagement with youth through collaboration with local populations of young people.
Applying the Pender’s Health Promotion Model to Identify the Factors Related to Older Adults’ Participation in Community-Based Health Promotion Activities
Authors: Chen Hsuan-Hui , Hsieh Pei-Lin
Published: September 2021

Aging societies have garnered global attention regarding issues related to older adults’ health promotion. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify factors associated with older adults’ participation in community-based health promotion activities. The Older Adults’ Health Promotion Activity Questionnaire was developed to collect data, and a total of 139 older adults were recruited from a community care center in Taoyuan City. Participants’ mean age was 72.7 years (SD = 6.0 years), 74.8% were females, 64.7% were married, 59% had a lower level of education, 51.8% had lower income, 59% reported their health status not good, and 76.3% had chronic disease. Our findings indicated that age, perceived benefits, and self-efficacy were identified as significant predictors of participation in health promotion activities. Among them, perceived benefits were found to have the strongest association with participation in health promotion activities (β = 0.305; p < 0.05). The findings showed that the Pender’s Health Promotion Model is useful to provide information for predicting and detecting significant factors related to older adults’ participation in community-based health promotion activities. By using this model as a framework, researchers can design more specific studies that are directed towards improving healthy lifestyles and detecting the key components of health-related behaviors among different age groups.
The Parent–Child Patient Unit (PCPU): Evidence-Based Patient Room Design and Parental Distress in Pediatric Cancer Centers
Authors: Vollmer Tanja C. , Koppen Gemma
Published: September 2021

Children with cancer are frequently hospitalized during diagnosis and treatment. Since the early 1980s, parents are co-admitted because their presence positively affects children’s adjustment to hospitalization and reduces post-traumatic stress. However, the size and overall architectural design of the rooms were never adapted to the doubling of the occupancy rate. Since studies show that many parents experience high levels of distress due to their child’s illness, the purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the architecture of the aged patient rooms on parental distress. A video observation targeted parent–child interaction related to five architectural determinants: (a) function and place of interaction, (b) distance between parent and child, (c) used space, (d) withdrawal, and (e) duration of the interaction. A total of 22 families were included in two Dutch children’s hospitals. Results show a significant association between parental distress and three architectural determinants: The less anxious the parents were and the better they estimated their child’s well-being, the more distance they created between themselves and their child, and the more space, privacy, and withdrawal options were used. These findings are discussed within a new patient room typology, the parent–child patient unit (PCPU), which reacts to the evident association of parental distress and the design.
Efficient and High Path Quality Autonomous Exploration and Trajectory Planning of UAV in an Unknown Environment
Authors: Zhao Leyang , Yan Li , Hu Xiao , Yuan Jinbiao , Liu Zhenbao
Published: September 2021

The ability of an autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in an unknown environment is a prerequisite for its execution of complex tasks and is the main research direction in related fields. The autonomous navigation of UAVs in unknown environments requires solving the problem of autonomous exploration of the surrounding environment and path planning, which determines whether the drones can complete mission-based flights safely and efficiently. Existing UAV autonomous flight systems hardly perform well in terms of efficient exploration and flight trajectory quality. This paper establishes an integrated solution for autonomous exploration and path planning. In terms of autonomous exploration, frontier-based and sampling-based exploration strategies are integrated to achieve fast and effective exploration performance. In the study of path planning in complex environments, an advanced Rapidly Exploring Random Tree (RRT) algorithm combining the adaptive weights and dynamic step size is proposed, which effectively solves the problem of balancing flight time and trajectory quality. Then, this paper uses the Hermite difference polynomial to optimization the trajectory generated by the RRT algorithm. We named proposed UAV autonomous flight system as Frontier and Sampling-based Exploration and Advanced RRT Planner system (FSEPlanner). Simulation performs in both apartment and maze environment, and results show that the proposed FSEPlanner algorithm achieves greatly improved time consumption and path distances, and the smoothed path is more in line with the actual flight needs of a UAV.
Assessing Impacts of New Subway Stations on Urban Thefts in the Surrounding Areas
Authors: Xu Chong , Chen Xi , Liu Lin , Lan Minxuan , Chen Debao
Published: September 2021

Whether newly implemented public transit stations influence the nearby crime pattern has been debated for years. In ZG City, China, 2 new subway lines and 20 new stations were implemented in 2017. This intervention allows us to test the plausible relationship between new public transit stations and thefts in the surrounding areas. We use the difference-in-differences (DID) model to assess the theft in the treatment and control areas before and after the implementation of the new stations, with necessary socioeconomic and land-use variables and time from the addition of the station being controlled. We also explicitly examine the impacts of the proximity of the stations and the Spring Festival on theft. The results suggest the following: (1) theft around the new subway stations significantly increases after the stations’ implementation, while the control area does not see much change in thefts; (2) proximity between the neighboring stations’ increases thefts; and (3) theft near the new stations significantly decreases during the month of the Spring Festival. This study contributes to the literature on the relationship between the subway system and crime, especially from a Chinese perspective. The finding of the research can bring insights to urban transit planning, allocation of the police force, and crime prevention.
Analysis of the Possibilities of Using HBIM Technology in the Protection of Cultural Heritage, Based on a Review of the Latest Research Carried out in Poland
Authors: Janisio-Pawłowska Dorota
Published: September 2021

The implementation of HBIM technology in the research carried out with historical objects remains at a very early stage and constitutes only a fracture of current studies, including in Poland. This process becomes indispensable for the analysis of the existing condition, management and protection of cultural heritage. Therefore, it proves necessary to elaborate directions and guidelines for the implementation of HBIM technology. The present article deals with research and analysis of Polish conservation studies. We discuss the methods for recording information, the scope and detail of the elaborated 3D model, including library objects. The possibility of further editing of objects, the digital tools applied and the data recording formats were all analyzed. The tables present the discrepancies in the creation of 3D objects. We described and compared the studied objects. The collected analyzes were used to summarize important parameters and collected data. This in turn allowed us to elaborate universal guidelines that could be used in the implementation of HBIM technology in other countries as well. Digital tools and data recording formats used to develop the discussed models of objects pave the way to the possibility of further editing and implementation of HBIM technology.
Genomic Biomarkers of Meningioma: A Focused Review
Authors: Pawloski Jacob A. , Fadel Hassan A. , Huang Yi-Wen , Lee Ian Y.
Published: September 2021

Meningiomas represent a phenotypically and genetically diverse group of tumors which often behave in ways that are not simply explained by their pathologic grade. The genetic landscape of meningiomas has become a target of investigation as tumor genomics have been found to impact tumor location, recurrence risk, and malignant potential. Additionally, targeted therapies are being developed that in the future may provide patients with personalized chemotherapy based on the genetic aberrations within their tumor. This review focuses on the most common genetic mutations found in meningiomas of all grades, with an emphasis on the impact on tumor location and clinically relevant tumor characteristics. NF-2 and the non-NF-2 family of genetic mutations are summarized in the context of low-grade and high-grade tumors, followed by a comprehensive discussion regarding the genetic and embryologic basis for meningioma location and phenotypic heterogeneity. Finally, targeted therapies based on tumor genomics currently in use and under investigation are reviewed and future avenues for research are suggested. The field of meningioma genomics has broad implications on the way meningiomas will be treated in the future, and is gradually shifting the way clinicians approach this diverse group of tumors.
A Chimeric IL-15/IL-15Rα Molecule Expressed on NFκB-Activated Dendritic Cells Supports Their Capability to Activate Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Bosch Naomi C. , Martin Lena-Marie , Voskens Caroline J. , Berking Carola , Seliger Barbara , Schuler Gerold , Schaft Niels , Dörrie Jan
Published: September 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells, members of the innate immune system, play an important role in the rejection of HLA class I negative tumor cells. Hence, a therapeutic vaccine, which can activate NK cells in addition to cells of the adaptive immune system might induce a more comprehensive cellular response, which could lead to increased tumor elimination. Dendritic cells (DCs) are capable of activating and expanding NK cells, especially when the NFκB pathway is activated in the DCs thereby leading to the secretion of the cytokine IL-12. Another prominent NK cell activator is IL-15, which can be bound by the IL-15 receptor alpha-chain (IL-15Rα) to be transpresented to the NK cells. However, monocyte-derived DCs do neither secrete IL-15, nor express the IL-15Rα. Hence, we designed a chimeric protein consisting of IL-15 and the IL-15Rα. Upon mRNA electroporation, the fusion protein was detectable on the surface of the DCs, and increased the potential of NFκB-activated, IL-12-producing DC to activate NK cells in an autologous cell culture system with ex vivo-generated cells from healthy donors. These data show that a chimeric IL-15/IL-15Rα molecule can be expressed by monocyte-derived DCs, is trafficked to the cell surface, and is functional regarding the activation of NK cells. These data represent an initial proof-of-concept for an additional possibility of further improving cellular DC-based immunotherapies of cancer.
Regulation of Survival Motor Neuron Gene Expression by Calcium Signaling
Authors: Choi Kwangman , Yang Ansook , Baek Jiyeon , Jeong Hyejeong , Kang Yura , Baek Woosun , Kim Joon-Chul , Kang Mingu , Choi Miri , Ham Youngwook , Son Min-Jeong , Han Sang-Bae , Kim Janghwan , Jang Jae-Hyuk , Ahn Jong Seog , Shen Haihong , Woo Sun-Hee , Kim Jong Heon , Cho Sungchan
Published: September 2021

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is caused by homozygous survival of motor neurons 1 (SMN1) gene deletion, leaving a duplicate gene, SMN2, as the sole source of SMN protein. However, a defect in SMN2 splicing, involving exon 7 skipping, results in a low level of functional SMN protein. Therefore, the upregulation of SMN protein expression from the SMN2 gene is generally considered to be one of the best therapeutic strategies to treat SMA. Most of the SMA drug discovery is based on synthetic compounds, and very few natural compounds have been explored thus far. Here, we performed an unbiased mechanism-independent and image-based screen of a library of microbial metabolites in SMA fibroblasts using an SMN-specific immunoassay. In doing so, we identified brefeldin A (BFA), a well-known inhibitor of ER-Golgi protein trafficking, as a strong inducer of SMN protein. The profound increase in SMN protein was attributed to, in part, the rescue of the SMN2 pre-mRNA splicing defect. Intriguingly, BFA increased the intracellular calcium concentration, and the BFA-induced exon 7 inclusion of SMN2 splicing, was abrogated by the depletion of intracellular calcium and by the pharmacological inhibition of calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinases (CaMKs). Moreover, BFA considerably reduced the expression of Tra2-β and SRSF9 proteins in SMA fibroblasts and enhanced the binding of PSF and hnRNP M to an exonic splicing enhancer (ESE) of exon 7. Together, our results demonstrate a significant role for calcium and its signaling on the regulation of SMN splicing, probably through modulating the expression/activity of splicing factors.
Carbenoxolon Is Capable to Regulate the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Opening in Chronic Alcohol Intoxication
Authors: Baburina Yulia , Odinokova Irina , Krestinina Olga
Published: September 2021

Background: carbenoxolone, which is a derivative of glyceretic acid, is actively used in pharmacology for the treatment of diseases of various etiologies. In addition, we have shown carbenoxolone as an effective inducer of mitochondrial permeability transition pore in rat brain and liver mitochondria. Methods: in the course of this work, comparative studies were carried out on the effect of carbenoxolone on the parameters of mPTP functioning in mitochondria isolated from the liver of control and alcoholic rats. Results: within the framework of this work, it was found that carbenoxolone significantly increased its effect in the liver mitochondria of rats with chronic intoxication. In particular, this was expressed in a reduction in the lag phase, a decrease in the threshold calcium concentration required to open a pore, an acceleration of high-amplitude cyclosporin-sensitive swelling of mitochondria, as well as an increase in the effect of carbenoxolone on the level of mitochondrial membrane-bound proteins. Thus, as a result of the studies carried out, it was shown that carbenoxolone is involved in the development/modulation of alcohol tolerance and dependence in rats.
Targeting the Oxytocinergic System: A Possible Pharmacological Strategy for the Treatment of Inflammation Occurring in Different Chronic Diseases
Authors: Friuli Marzia , Eramo Barbara , Valenza Marta , Scuderi Caterina , Provensi Gustavo , Romano Adele
Published: September 2021

Unresolved inflammation represents a central feature of different human pathologies including neuropsychiatric, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. The epidemiologic relevance of such disorders justifies the increasing interest in further understanding the mechanisms underpinning the inflammatory process occurring in such chronic diseases to provide potential novel pharmacological approaches. The most common and effective therapies for controlling inflammation are glucocorticoids; however, a variety of other molecules have been demonstrated to have an anti-inflammatory potential, including neuropeptides. In recent years, the oxytocinergic system has seen an explosion of scientific studies, demonstrating its potential to contribute to a variety of physiological processes including inflammation. Therefore, the aim of the present review was to understand the role of oxytocin in the modulation of inflammation occurring in different chronic diseases. The criterion we used to select the diseases was based on the emerging literature showing a putative involvement of the oxytocinergic system in inflammatory processes in a variety of pathologies including neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and obesity. The evidence reviewed here supports a beneficial role of oxytocin in the control of both peripheral and central inflammatory response happening in the aforementioned pathologies. Although future studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanistic details underlying such regulation, this review supports the idea that the modulation of the endogenous oxytocinergic system might represent a new potential pharmacological approach for the treatment of inflammation.
Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Programme: Attendance, Barriers and Enablers amongst Young People with Diabetes Mellitus Aged 12–26 Years
Authors: Cushley Laura N. , Curran Katie , Quinn Nicola B. , Bell Aaron , Muldrew Alyson , Graham Una M. , McCance David R. , Wen Qing , Peto Tunde
Published: September 2021

The study aim is to investigate characteristics, barriers and enablers for attendance at the Diabetic Eye Screening Programme Northern Ireland (DESPNI) among people with diabetes aged 12–26 years. A mixed-methods approach with retrospective analysis and prospective, questionnaire-based data collection was completed. Data were analysed using ordinal logistic regression. A questionnaire collected information on barriers and enablers to attending DESPNI. Age, diabetes duration, attendance at diabetes clinic and lower HbA1c values were significantly associated with better attendance. Those aged 12–15 were more likely to attend screening than 16–26 years, odds ratio (OR) 4.01. Subjects diagnosed less than 5 years were more likely to attend than those with longer diabetes duration (OR = 2.52, p =< 0.001). Subjects who attended diabetes clinics were more likely to attend screening (OR = 1.89, p =< 0.001) and have a lower HbA1c (OR = 1.46, p =< 0.001). Questionnaires revealed major barriers to attendance which included inconvenient appointment times, lack of access and poor communication. While many subjects were aware of the impact of diabetes on the eye, many had little understanding of screening. This study provides pivotal information on potential barriers and enablers for young people attending eye screening. We suggest modest changes such as convenient appointment times, clearer communication and one-stop clinics could improve attendance.
Experience with a Hybrid Procedure Involving Laparoscopic Fundoplication with Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in Chronically Ill Children
Authors: Yoon Sohyun , Kim Soo-Hong , Lee Yeoun Joo , Park Jae Hong , Cho Yong Hoon , Chung Jae Hun
Published: September 2021

Gastrostomy with concurrent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is often performed as a laparoscopic gastrostomy (LG) by surgeons. Since 2014, we started performing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) as gastrostomy with LNF. This study aims to compare the outcomes of LG and PEG with LNF. Patients were recruited into two groups: LNF with LG (historical control) or PEG. Demographic data, operation time, time to start feeding, time to full feeding, length of hospital stay (LOS), and complications were compared between the groups. Fourteen patients underwent LNF with LG and 49 underwent LNF with PEG. The median age and body weight of patients were 4.25 years and 14.15 kg in the LG group and 2.58 years and 10.60 kg in the PEG group, respectively. Operation times were significantly shorter in the PEG group (1.81 vs. 2.61 h). The times to start feeding and full feeding as well as LOS were shorter in the PEG group. Nevertheless, complications were similar in both groups. In conclusion, PEG with LNF was associated with significantly shorter operation times, times to start feeding and reach full feeding, and LOS. PEG is a suitable method for LNF in chronically ill children.
Role of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in Therapy of Psoriasis
Authors: Słuczanowska-Głąbowska Sylwia , Ziegler-Krawczyk Anna , Szumilas Kamila , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: September 2021

Janus kinases inhibitors are molecules that target Janus kinases—signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT). They inhibit this intracellular signal pathway, blocking the gene transcription of crucial proinflammatory cytokines that play a central role in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis. This process reduces psoriatic inflammation. The JAK inhibitors are divided into two generations. The first generation of JAK inhibitors blocks two or more different Janus kinases. The second generation is more specified and blocks only one type of Janus kinase and has less side effects than the first generation. Tofacitinib, ruxolitinib and baricitinib belong to first generation JAK inhibitors and decernotinib and filgotinib belong to second group. This narrative review summarizes the role of Janus kinase inhibitors in the therapy of psoriasis. Oral JAK inhibitors show promise for efficacy and safety in the treatment of psoriasis. Studies to date do not indicate that JAK inhibitors are superior to recent biologic drugs in terms of efficacy. However, JAK inhibitors, due to their lack of increased incidence of side effects compared to other biologic drugs, can be included in the psoriasis treatment algorithm because they are orally taken. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to evaluate long-term treatment effects with these drugs.
The Anatomy of Glenoid Concavity—Bony and Osteochondral Assessment of a Stability-Related Parameter
Authors: Wermers Jens , Raschke Michael J. , Wilken Marcel , Riegel Arne , Katthagen J. Christoph
Published: September 2021

Glenoid concavity is a crucial factor for glenohumeral stability. However, the distribution of this stability-related parameter has not been focused on in anatomical studies. In this retrospective study, computed tomography (CT) data and tactile measurements of n = 27 human cadaveric glenoids were analyzed with respect to concavity. For this purpose, the bony and osteochondral shoulder stability ratio (BSSR/OSSR) were determined based on the radius and depth of the glenoid shape in eight directions. Various statistical tests were performed for the comparison of directional concavity and analysis of the relationship between superoinferior and anteroposterior concavity. The results proved that glenoid concavity is the least distinctive in anterior, posterior, and anterosuperior direction but increases significantly toward the superior, anteroinferior, and posteroinferior glenoid. The OSSR showed significantly higher concavity than the BSSR for most of the directions considered. Moreover, the anteroposterior concavity is linearly correlated with superoinferior concavity. The nonuniform distribution of concavity indicates directions with higher stability provided by the anatomy. The linear relationship between anteroposterior and superoinferior concavity may motivate future research using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to optimize clinical decision-making toward more personalized treatment of glenoid bone loss.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging and Mapping of T1 and T2 Relaxation Time for Evaluation of Chronic Renal Allograft Rejection in a Translational Mouse Model
Authors: Schmidbauer Martina , Rong Song , Gutberlet Marcel , Chen Rongjun , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Hartung Dagmar , Meier Martin , Wacker Frank , Haller Hermann , Gueler Faikah , Greite Robert , Derlin Katja
Published: September 2021

We hypothesized that multiparametric MRI is able to non-invasively assess, characterize and monitor renal allograft pathology in a translational mouse model of chronic allograft rejection. Chronic rejection was induced by allogenic kidney transplantation (ktx) of BALB/c-kidneys into C57BL/6-mice (n = 23). Animals after isogenic ktx (n = 18) and non-transplanted healthy animals (n = 22) served as controls. MRI sequences (7T) were acquired 3 and 6 weeks after ktx and quantitative T1, T2 and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps were calculated. In addition, in a subset of animals, histological changes after ktx were evaluated. Chronic rejection was associated with a significant prolongation of T1 time compared to isogenic ktx 3 (1965 ± 53 vs. 1457 ± 52 ms, p < 0.001) and 6 weeks after surgery (1899 ± 79 vs. 1393 ± 51 ms, p < 0.001). While mean T2 times and ADC were not significantly different between allogenic and isogenic kidney grafts, histogram-based analysis of ADC revealed significantly increased tissue heterogeneity in allografts at both time points (standard derivation/entropy/interquartile range, p < 0.05). Correspondingly, histological analysis showed severe inflammation, graft fibrosis and tissue heterogeneity in allogenic but not in isogenic kidney grafts. In conclusion, renal diffusion weighted imaging and mapping of T2 and T1 relaxation times enable detection of chronic renal allograft rejection in mice. The combined quantitative assessment of mean values and histograms provides non-invasive information of chronic changes in renal grafts and allows longitudinal monitoring.
The Role of Urinary N-Acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase in Cirrhotic Patients with Acute Kidney Injury: Multicenter, Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yoo Jeong-Ju , Kwon Jung Hyun , Kim Young Seok , Nam Soon Woo , Park Ji Won , Kim Hee Yeon , Kim Chang Wook , Shin Seung Kak , Chon Young Eun , Jang Eun Sun , Jeong Sook-Hyang , Lee Jin Woo , Song Do Seon , Yang Jin Mo , Lee Sung Won , Lee Hae Lim , Jung Young Kul , Yim Hyung Joon , Lee Bora , Kim Sang Gyune , Kim Ju Hyun
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims: Currently, it is difficult to predict the reversibility of renal function and to discriminate renal parenchymal injury in cirrhotic patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). The aim of this study is to evaluate whether urine N-acetyl-β-d-Glucosaminidase (NAG) can predict the survival and response to terlipressin in cirrhotic patients with AKI. Methods: Two hundred sixty-two cirrhotic consecutive patients who developed AKI were prospectively enrolled from 11 tertiary medical centers in Korea between 2016 to 2019. AKI was defined as an increase in serum Cr (SCr) of 0.3 mg/dL or a 50% increase in baseline SCr. Patients diagnosed with hepatorenal syndrome (HRS-AKI) were treated with terlipressin plus albumin. Results: The patients were 58.8 ± 12.9 years old on average and were predominantly male (72.5%). The mean MELD score was 25.3 ± 9.1. When classified according to the AKI phenotype, there were 119 pre-renal, 52 acute tubular necrosis, 18 miscellaneous, and 73 HRS-AKI patients. However, the urine NAG was not effective at discriminating AKI phenotypes, except for HRS-AKI. The baseline urine NAG increased as the baseline AKI stage increased (p < 0.001). In addition, within the same AKI stage, the urine NAG values were significantly lower in the AKI-resolved group than in the unresolved group. The urine NAG level was significantly lower in living patients compared with those who died or who underwent a liver transplant within 3 months (p = 0.005). In the multivariate analysis, the increased urine NAG was a significant risk factor for the 3-month transplant-free survival (TFS) rate, especially in patients with Child–Pugh class ≤ B or MELD < 24. The urine NAG did not predict the response to terlipressin treatment in patients with HRS. Conclusions: Urine NAG is strongly associated with the severity of AKI in patients with liver cirrhosis and is useful for predicting the 3-month TFS.
Comparison of Compass Suprathreshold Screening Strategies
Authors: Fogagnolo Paolo , Romano Dario , Montesano Giovanni , De Ruvo Valentino , Rossetti Luca Mario
Published: September 2021

Screening programs may be useful to reduce the rate of undetected glaucoma. Compass (CMP, CenterVue, Padova, Italy) Standard Suprathreshold strategy (SST) analyses the visual function at 52 retinal locations. A new Quick Suprathreshold strategy (QST) reduces the number of tested locations to 24. With both tests, the CMP also provides an image of the central retina and a detail of the optic nerve head. The aim of this paper is to measure the performances of SST and QST compared with clinical diagnosis. 63 consecutive healthy subjects and 60 consecutive patients with perimetric defects from glaucoma in both eyes were recruited. They received one test per eye (SST or QST in randomized order); results were classified into normal, suspect and abnormal according to a global index provided in the report and called SupraThreshold Response (STR). Agreement between clinical diagnosis and test output were calculated, and test time was also measured. The agreement with the clinical diagnosis was 95.7% for SST and 95.1% for QST. When two suspect tests were excluded, agreement for QST increased to 96.7%. Test duration was 164 ± 82 s for SST and 71 ± 41 s for QST (p < 0.0001). Such a difference was similar in both glaucoma patients (respectively 231 ± 65 s vs. 105 ± 33 s, p < 0.0001) and normal subjects (98 ± 17 and 39 ± 9 s, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, SST and QST showed similar, high agreement with clinical judgement. Morphological analysis is potentially helpful in further improving the clinical usefulness of suprathreshold tests. QST is characterized by a strong time saving compared with SST.
Does EMDR Therapy Have an Effect on Memories of Emotional Abuse, Neglect and Other Types of Adverse Events in Patients with a Personality Disorder? Preliminary Data
Authors: Hafkemeijer Laurian , Starrenburg Annemieke , van der Palen Job , Slotema Karin , de Jongh Ad
Published: September 2021

Background: Little is known about the effectiveness of trauma-focused therapies for memories of events not meeting the A-criterion of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Objective: Determining the effect of EMDR therapy on memories of emotional abuse, neglect and other types of adverse events in patients with a personality disorder (PD). Method: We conducted a secondary analysis of the data from our study, which aimed to determine the effectiveness of five sessions of EMDR therapy in 49 patients with a PD. Patients were divided into three different groups depending on their most prevalent type of adverse event. Data were analyzed with Generalized Estimating Equations. Results: Of all patients, 49% reported emotional neglect, 22.4% emotional abuse and 26.5% other types. Only one patient reported memories that predominantly fulfilled the A-criterion of PTSD. After five sessions of EMDR therapy, medium to large treatment effects for memories related to neglect (ds between 0.52 and 0.79), medium treatment effects for memories involving emotional abuse (ds between 0.18 and 0.59) and other types of adverse events were found (ds between 0.18 and 0.53). No significant differences in symptom reduction associated with the application of EMDR therapy among memories involving these three different types of adverse events could be revealed. Conclusions: The results support the notion that EMDR therapy is not only an effective therapy for memories related to A-criteria-worthy events, but that it also has a symptom-reducing effect on memories involving other types of adverse events. This suggests that EMDR might be a valuable addition to the treatment of PD without PTSD.
Local Perceptions of Climate Change and Adaptation Responses from Two Mountain Regions in Tanzania
Authors: Kaganzi Kaiza R. , Cuni-Sanchez Aida , Mcharazo Fatuma , Martin Emanuel H. , Marchant Robert A. , Thorn Jessica P. R.
Published: September 2021

Mountain environments and communities are disproportionately impacted by climate change. Changes in temperature are greater than at lower elevations, which affect the height of the cloud base and local rainfall patterns. While our knowledge of the biophysical nature of climate change in East Africa has increased in the past few years, research on Indigenous farmers’ perceptions and adaptation responses is still lacking, particularly in mountains regions. Semi-structured interviews were administered to 300 farmers on Mount Kilimanjaro (n = 150) and the Udzungwa Mountains (n = 150) in Tanzania across gender and wealth groups. Respondents in both mountains reported not only changes in rainfall and temperature, corresponding with meteorological data, but also a greater incidence of fog, wind, frost, and hailstorms—with impacts on decreased crop yields and increased outbreaks of pests. The most common adaptation strategies used were improved crop varieties and inputs. Wealthier households diversified into horticulture or animal rearing, while poorer households of Hehe ethnicity diversified to labour and selling firewood. Despite being climate change literate and having access to radios, most respondents used Indigenous knowledge to decide on planting dates. Our findings highlight how context and culture are important when designing adaptation options and argue for greater involvement of local stakeholders in adaptation planning using a science-with-society approach. Place-based results offer generalisable insights that have application for other mountains in the Global South.
Evaluation on the Internal Public Space Quality in Affordable Housing Based on Multi-Source Data and IPA Analysis
Authors: Zhao Jie , Peng Zhenghong , Liu Lingbo , Yu Yang , Yu Yan
Published: September 2021

Much affordable housing has poor accessibility to external urban public space facilities because of its suburb location, which makes the residents’ daily life and social activities mainly depend on the internal public space of the community. Such affordable housing needs urgent upgrading of the internal public space based on the thorough understanding of the low-income residents’ demand ranking. The internal spaces’ transformation will significantly improve the living environment and the quality of residents’ life, and it also provides a way to promote social equity and sustainable urban development. By using the multi-source data and the two-step floating catchment area method, this paper selects typical affordable housing, which has poor accessibility to external urban public space, as our case study. After establishing the evaluation index system, IPA (Importance and Performance Analysis) is used to calculate the quadrant value of each index so as to clarify the upgrading urgency indexes from the residents’ demand for internal public space of affordable housing. Studies have shown that tables, chairs and pavilions, pedestrian systems, retail commercial facilities, medical and health facilities, and recreational space have the strongest urgency for upgrading; fitness facilities, exercise space, barrier-free access, guidance signs and parking lot design are the next most urgent indexes; Recreational facilities, entrances/exits of the residential area, green space in front of t residential buildings, and cultural facilities all have general urgency for upgrading.