bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“I’m Too Old for That”: The Role of Ageism and Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs in Sexual Health in a Sample of Heterosexual and LGB Older Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Flesia Luca , Monaro Merylin , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Limoncin Erika
Published: February 2023

The role of ageism (i.e., discrimination against individuals or groups on the basis of their age), in particular toward the sexuality of the elderly, remains, to date, an overlooked issue. A few studies have suggested that ageistic stereotypes can negatively affect older adults’ sexual health. No data are available, in particular, about differences among heterosexual and LGB (lesbian, gay, and bisexual) populations. The present study aimed to investigate differences in perceived ageism and related dysfunctional beliefs in a sample of heterosexual (n = 104) and LGB (n = 103) older adults (aged 55 or older; mean age 66.5) and their impact on sexual health and satisfaction. LGB individuals reported higher rates of masturbation and sexual intercourse and an increased quality of sexual activity as compared to heterosexuals. In addition, no differences between the groups emerged as regards perceived ageism and dysfunctional beliefs toward ageing. In conclusion, LGB individuals perceived more ageism toward sexuality than their counterparts; however, heterosexuals were more likely to have dysfunctional beliefs toward sexuality in ageing. The study findings highlight the significance of examining sexual orientation to understand experiences of sexuality in ageing of the growing older population. Renewed socio-educational efforts based on these data are clearly needed.
Vaccine Hesitancy among Medical Students at a Tertiary Hospital—Affiliated Medical School
Authors: Omer Ibrahim , Alhuzali Abdullah , Aletani Tala , Althagafi Zaher , Ghulam Enas , Awadh Abdullah
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a global pandemic with long-lasting economic and cultural impacts. International governments have attempted to scale up vaccine production to mitigate this crisis. However, vaccine hesitancy, particularly among healthcare providers, remains an understudied subject that may hinder vaccine effectiveness. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study to evaluate vaccine hesitancy among medical students using a pre-validated survey based on the 5C model of psychological antecedents, which includes confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation, and collective responsibility. Results: The majority of medical students had high scores for confidence (79.7%), non-complacency (88%), and not having constraints against receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (97.4%). Surprisingly, students had low scores for calculation (38%) and collective responsibility (14.7%). Many predictors of the psychological antecedents included in the 5C model have been reported, including academic year and gender. Conclusion: We observed moderate levels of vaccine hesitancy among the medical students included in our study. We urge medical students to be more aware of community public health concerns. We recommend that authorized institutions lay out urgent reforms to increase awareness of COVID-19 and available vaccines.
Types and Sources of Social Support Accessible to University Students with Disabilities in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed A. , Almishaal Ali A. , Hassan Sehar-un-Nisa , Kamel Reham M. , Atteya Mohammed Raafat M. , Obeidat Sofian T. , Abdelmaguid Hesham S. , Alanazi Abdullah A. , Villacorte Liza Mendizabal , Alghatani Fahad D.
Published: February 2023

University students with disabilities face an increased risk of experiencing negative implications in educational, psychological, and social spheres during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed at assessing various dimensions of social support and its sources during the COVID-19 pandemic that availed university students with disabilities. This cross-sectional descriptive study collected data from 53 university students with disabilities. We administered the Social Support Scale (SSC) to assess five dimensions: informational, emotional, esteem, social integration and tangible support, and access to social support from four sources: family, friends, teachers, and colleagues. Multiple regression analysis showed that university students with disabilities mainly relied upon their friends for informational support (β = 0.64; p < 0.001), emotional support (β = 0.52; p < 0.001), and social integration support (β = 0.57; p < 0.001). Family members (β = 0.406; p < 0.01) and colleagues (β = 0.36; p < 0.01) provided esteem support to students with disabilities. Support from teachers demonstrated an association with informational support (β = 0.24; p < 0.05). The findings from the current study suggest that students with disabilities primarily sought informational, emotional, and social integration support from their peers. Although teachers were the primary source of informational support, emotional and esteem support were not found to be significantly associated with them. These findings necessitate exploring the underlying factors and how to enhance them during unusual circumstances such as online distance education and social distancing.
Using the Health Belief Model to Assess the Physical Exercise Behaviors of International Students in South Korea during the Pandemic
Authors: Ma Peng-Shuai , So Wi-Young , Choi Hyongjun
Published: February 2023

International students have the special status of being isolated in a foreign country during a pandemic. As Korea is a worldwide leader in education, it is important to understand the physical exercise behaviors of international students during this pandemic to assess the need for additional policies and support. The health belief model was used to score the physical exercise motivation and behaviors of international students in South Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 315 valid questionnaires were obtained and analyzed for this study. The reliability and validity of the data were also assessed. For all variables, the values for combined reliability and the Cronbach’s α were higher than 0.70. The following conclusions were drawn by comparing the differences between the measures. The results of the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin and Bartlett tests were also higher than 0.70, confirming high reliability and validity. This study found a correlation between the health beliefs of international students and age, education, and accommodation. Consequently, international students with lower health belief scores should be encouraged to pay more attention to their personal health, participate in more physical exercise, strengthen their motivation to participate in physical exercise, and increase the frequency of their participation.
Digital Technologies to Enhance Infectious Disease Surveillance in Tanzania: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mustafa Ummul-khair , Kreppel Katharina Sophia , Brinkel Johanna , Sauli Elingarami
Published: February 2023

Mobile phones and computer-based applications can speed up disease outbreak detection and control. Hence, it is not surprising that stakeholders in the health sector are becoming more interested in funding these technologies in Tanzania, Africa, where outbreaks occur frequently. The objective of this situational review is, therefore, to summarize available literature on the application of mobile phones and computer-based technologies for infectious disease surveillance in Tanzania and to inform on existing gaps. Four databases were searched—Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PubMed, and Scopus—yielding a total of 145 publications. In addition, 26 publications were obtained from the Google search engine. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were met by 35 papers: they described mobile phone-based and computer-based systems designed for infectious disease surveillance in Tanzania, were published in English between 2012 and 2022, and had full texts that could be read online. The publications discussed 13 technologies, of which 8 were for community-based surveillance, 2 were for facility-based surveillance, and 3 combined both forms of surveillance. Most of them were designed for reporting purposes and lacked interoperability features. While undoubtedly useful, the stand-alone character limits their impact on public health surveillance.
Exploring the Critical Driving Forces and Strategy Adoption Paths of Professional Competency Development for Various Emergency Physicians Based on the Hybrid MCDM Approach
Authors: Chang Meng-Wei , Kung Chia-Te , Yu Shan-Fu , Wang Hui-Ting , Lin Chia-Li
Published: February 2023

The implementation of competency-based medical education (CBME) focuses on learners’ competency outcomes and performance during their training. Competencies should meet the local demands of the healthcare system and achieve the desired patient-centered outcomes. Continuous professional education for all physicians also emphasizes competency-based training to provide high-quality patient care. In the CBME assessment, trainees are evaluated on applying their knowledge and skills to unpredictable clinical situations. A priority of the training program is essential in building competency development. However, no research has focused on exploring strategies for physician competency development. In this study, we investigate the professional competency state, determine the driving force, and provide emergency physicians’ competency development strategies. We use the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method to identify the professional competency state and investigate the relationship among the aspects and criteria. Furthermore, the study uses the PCA (principal component analysis) method to reduce the number of components and then identify the weights of the aspects and components using the ANP (analytic network process) approach. Therefore, we can establish the prioritization of competency development of emergency physicians (EPs) with the VIKOR (Vlse kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje) approach. Our research demonstrates the priority of competency development of EPs is PL (professional literacy), CS (care services), PK (personal knowledge), and PS (professional skills). The dominant aspect is PL, and the aspect being dominated is PS. The PL affects CS, PK, and PS. Then, the CS affects PK and PS. Ultimately, the PK affects the PS. In conclusion, the strategies to improve the professional competency development of EPs should begin with the improvement from the aspect of PL. After PL, the following aspects that should be improved are CS, PK, and PS. Therefore, this study can help establish competency development strategies for different stakeholders and redefine emergency physicians’ competency to reach the desired CBME outcomes by improving advantages and disadvantages.
Recycling Nutrient-Rich Municipal Wastes into Ready-to-Use Potting Soil: An Approach for the Sustainable Resource Circularity with Inorganic Porous Materials
Authors: Dede Cemile , Ozer Hasan , Dede Omer Hulusi , Celebi Ahmet , Ozdemir Saim
Published: February 2023

Using waste products is a promising and sustainable alternative to conventional non-renewable peat and nutrient-rich renewable materials. Their products are gaining importance for closing the loop in the ornamental plant industry. Porous inorganic materials have recently become potential bulking agents (BA) for sewage sludge (SS) owing to their high porosity, surface area, passivation capacity, high recycling potential, and potting soil components. The main purpose of the present work was to investigate the feasibility of pumice (PU) and expanded perlite (EP) on composting parameters, nutrient bioavailability and suitability of SS to serve as an ornamental substrate. The addition of PU and EP at 50% (v/v) resulted in higher porosity, optimal initial moisture content, higher temperature rise (56.24 ± 0.13 °C, 56.21 ± 0.11 °C, respectively), and higher CO2 evolution (39.41 ± 0.17%, 41.70 ± 0.22% daily peaks). Composting with inorganic BA at EP-50 and PU-50 mixtures was beneficial owing to high nitrogen content (3.82 and 3.70%, respectively) and readily bioavailable nutrients (270 mg kg−1 phosphates and 1835 mg kg−1 potassium). The use of PU and EP was found helpful in improving the slow-release nutrient properties of the compost. The overall results indicated that composting SS with PU and EP is a viable approach to achieve good composting properties and a good nutrient-providing profile if the compost is used as a component for potting soil components or garden soil amendments.
Preharvest UV-B Treatment Improves Strawberry Quality and Extends Shelf Life
Authors: Zhu Xudong , Trouth Frances , Yang Tianbao
Published: February 2023

Postharvest ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation has been used to control pathogen incidence on fresh produce, but little attention has been paid to preharvest UV-B effect on strawberry fruit quality and storage. In this study, strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv Albion) plants grown in greenhouse were irradiated with UV-B lamps with an intensity of 0.7362 J/s m2 for 1 and 2 h every day from 5–7 pm after flowering. Fruits were harvested at red stage for quality evaluation. The results indicated that the preharvest UV-B-treated fruits had lighter color (increased L*) than the control. Total soluble solids (TSS), total phenolics content (TPS) and total anthocyanin content (TAC) of UV-B-treated fruits were higher than for the control fruits. There were no significant differences in any of the quality traits between UV-B one-hour and two-hour treatments. We further evaluated the fruit quality when stored at 5 °C on day 7 and day 14. Compared to untreated control, UV-B-treated fruits retarded decrease in L*, TSS, TPS, TAC and firmness, and reduced fruit decay. Examination of expression of genes related to UV-B signaling indicated that HY5 was the major component of UV-B signaling during the green and white stages. However, anthocyanin genes were highly responsive to UV-B treatment during the red stage. Our results suggest that utilization of a low dose of UV-B radiation during the growth stage can improve strawberry fruit quality, and extend shelf life. This research facilitates the utilization of preharvest UV-B treatment for improving fruit quality in controlled environment agriculture.
Predicting Habitat and Distribution of an Interior Highlands Regional Endemic Winter Stonefly (Allocapnia mohri) in Arkansas Using Random Forest Models
Authors: Annaratone Brianna , Larson Camryn , Prater Clay , Dowling Ashley , Magoulick Daniel D. , Evans-White Michelle A.
Published: February 2023

Stoneflies are a globally threatened aquatic insect order. In Arkansas, a diverse group of winter stonefly (Capniidae: Allocapnia) have not been surveyed since the 1980s, likely because species-level identification requires the rarely-collected adult form. Allocapnia mohri, a regional endemic, was previously commonly found in mountainous, intermittent streams from the Ouachita Mountains ecoregion north to the Ozark Highlands, but no species distributional models including land use or climate variables exist to our knowledge. We collected adults from 71 stream reaches from the historic Arkansas range from November to April 2020 and 2021. We modeled distributions using random forest (RF) models populated with landscape, climate, and both data to determine which were most predictive of species presence. Correlations between landscape or climate variables and presence were examined using multiple logistic regression. The landscape RF models performed better than the climate or landscape + climate RF models. A. mohri presence sites tended to have a greater elevation, a lower mean July temperature, and a greater percentage of very slow infiltration soils in the watershed, compared to absence sites. A. mohri was absent at the Ouachita Mountains sites and may be experiencing a range contraction or migration northward.
Classification and Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Edible Oils by Using Nanomaterial-Based Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Munteanu Irina Georgiana , Apetrei Constantin
Published: February 2023

The classification of olive oils and the authentication of their biological or geographic origin are important issues for public health and for the olive oil market and related industries. The development of techniques for olive oil classification that are fast, easy to use, and suitable for online, in situ and remote operation is of high interest. In this study, the possibility of discriminating and classifying vegetable oils according to different criteria related to biological or geographical origin was assessed using cyclic voltammograms (CVs) as input data, obtained with electrochemical sensors based on carbonaceous nanomaterials and gold nanoparticles. In this context, 44 vegetable oil samples of different categories were analyzed and the capacity of the sensor array coupled with multivariate analysis was evaluated. The characteristics highlighted in voltammograms are related to the redox properties of the electroactive compounds, mainly phenolics, existing in the oils. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the oils’ hydrophilic fraction was also estimated by conventional spectrophotometric methods (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and galvinoxyl) and correlated with the voltammetric responses of the sensors. The percentage of DPPH and galvinoxyl inhibition was accurately predicted from the voltammetric data, with a correlation coefficients greater than 0.97 both in calibration and in validation. The results indicate that this method allows for a clear discrimination of oils from different biological or geographic origins.
A Functional Polymorphism Downstream of Vitamin A Regulator Gene CYP26B1 Is Associated with Hand Osteoarthritis
Authors: Khosasih Vivia , Liu Kai-Ming , Huang Chung-Ming , Liou Lieh-Bang , Hsieh Ming-Shium , Lee Chian-Her , Tsai Chang-Youh , Kuo San-Yuan , Hwa Su-Yang , Yu Chia-Li , Chang Chih-Hao , Lin Cheng-Jyh , Hsieh Song-Chou , Cheng Chun-Ying , Chen Wei-Ming , Chen Liang-Kuang , Chuang Hui-Ping , Chen Ying-Ting , Tsai Pei-Chun , Lu Liang-Suei , H’ng Weng-Siong , Zhang Yanfei , Chen Hsiang-Cheng , Chen Chien-Hsiun , Lee Ming Ta Michael , Wu Jer-Yuarn
Published: February 2023

While genetic analyses have revealed ~100 risk loci associated with osteoarthritis (OA), only eight have been linked to hand OA. Besides, these studies were performed in predominantly European and Caucasian ancestries. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study in the Han Chinese population to identify genetic variations associated with the disease. We recruited a total of 1136 individuals (n = 420 hand OA-affected; n = 716 unaffected control subjects) of Han Chinese ancestry. We carried out genotyping using Axiom Asia Precisi on Medicine Research Array, and we employed the RegulomeDB database and RoadMap DNase I Hypersensitivity Sites annotations to further narrow down our potential candidate variants. Genetic variants identified were tested in the Geisinger’s hand OA cohort selected from the Geisinger MyCode community health initiative (MyCode®). We also performed a luciferase reporter assay to confirm the potential impact of top candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on hand OA. We identified six associated SNPs (p-value = 6.76 × 10−7–7.31 × 10−6) clustered at 2p13.2 downstream of the CYP26B1 gene. The strongest association signal identified was rs883313 (p-value = 6.76 × 10−7, odds ratio (OR) = 1.76), followed by rs12713768 (p-value = 1.36 × 10−6, OR = 1.74), near or within the enhancer region closest to the CYP26B1 gene. Our findings showed that the major risk-conferring CC haplotype of SNPs rs12713768 and rs10208040 [strong linkage disequilibrium (LD); D’ = 1, r2 = 0.651] drives 18.9% of enhancer expression activity. Our findings highlight that the SNP rs12713768 is associated with susceptibility to and severity of hand OA in the Han Chinese population and that the suggested retinoic acid signaling pathway may play an important role in its pathogenesis.
Oxidative Stress and Aging as Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease: The Role of the Antioxidant Melatonin
Authors: Tchekalarova Jana , Tzoneva Rumiana
Published: February 2023

Aging and neurodegenerative diseases share common hallmarks, including mitochondrial dysfunction and protein aggregation. Moreover, one of the major issues of the demographic crisis today is related to the progressive rise in costs for care and maintenance of the standard living condition of aged patients with neurodegenerative diseases. There is a divergence in the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Still, a disturbed endogenous pro-oxidants/antioxidants balance is considered the crucial detrimental factor that makes the brain vulnerable to aging and progressive neurodegeneration. The present review focuses on the complex relationships between oxidative stress, autophagy, and the two of the most frequent neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Most of the available data support the hypothesis that a disturbed antioxidant defense system is a prerequisite for developing pathogenesis and clinical symptoms of ADs and PD. Furthermore, the release of the endogenous hormone melatonin from the pineal gland progressively diminishes with aging, and people’s susceptibility to these diseases increases with age. Elucidation of the underlying mechanisms involved in deleterious conditions predisposing to neurodegeneration in aging, including the diminished role of melatonin, is important for elaborating precise treatment strategies for the pathogenesis of AD and PD.
Identification of Key Biomarkers Associated with Immunogenic Cell Death and Their Regulatory Mechanisms in Severe Acute Pancreatitis Based on WGCNA and Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Zhengjian , Liu Jin , Wang Yuting , Guo Hui , Li Fan , Cao Yinan , Zhao Liang , Chen Hailong
Published: February 2023

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a form of programmed cell death with a strong sense of inflammatory detection, whose powerful situational awareness can cause the reactivation of aberrant immunity. However, the role of ICD in the pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) has yet to be investigated. This study aims to explore the pivotal genes associated with ICD in SAP and how they relate to immune infiltration and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in order to provide a theoretical foundation for further, in-depth mechanistic studies. We downloaded GSE194331 datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The use of differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis; weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis allowed us to identify a total of three ICD-related hub genes (LY96, BCL2, IFNGR1) in SAP. Furthermore, single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) demonstrated that hub genes are closely associated with the infiltration of specific immune cells, the activation of immune pathways and the metabolism of SCFAs (especially butyrate). These findings were validated through the analysis of gene expression patterns in both clinical patients and rat animal models of SAP. In conclusion, the first concept of ICD in the pathogenesis of SAP was proposed in our study. This has important implications for future investigations into the pro-inflammatory immune mechanisms mediated by damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in the late stages of SAP.
Hyaluronic Acid in Synovial Fluid Prevents Neutrophil Activation in Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Mol Sanne , Taanman-Kueter Esther W. M. , van der Steen Baltus A. , Groot Kormelink Tom , van de Sande Marleen G. H. , Tas Sander W. , Wauben Marca H. M. , de Jong Esther C.
Published: February 2023

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) patients suffer from joint inflammation resulting in tissue damage, characterized by the presence of numerous neutrophils in the synovium and synovial fluid (SF). As it is yet unclear to what extent neutrophils contribute to the pathogenesis of SpA, we set out to study SF neutrophils in more detail. We analyzed the functionality of SF neutrophils of 20 SpA patients and 7 disease controls, determining ROS production and degranulation in response to various stimuli. In addition, the effect of SF on neutrophil function was determined. Surprisingly, our data show that SF neutrophils in SpA patients have an inactive phenotype, despite the presence of many neutrophil-activating stimuli such as GM-CSF and TNF in SF. This was not due to exhaustion as SF neutrophils readily responded to stimulation. Therefore, this finding suggests that one or more inhibitors of neutrophil activation may be present in SF. Indeed, when blood neutrophils from healthy donors were activated in the presence of increasing concentrations of SF from SpA patients, degranulation and ROS production were dose-dependently inhibited. This effect was independent of diagnosis, gender, age, and medication in the patients from which the SF was isolated. Treatment of SF with the enzyme hyaluronidase strongly reduced the inhibitory effect of SF on neutrophil activation, indicating that hyaluronic acid that is present in SF may be an important factor in preventing SF neutrophil activation. This finding provides novel insights into the role of soluble factors in SF regulating neutrophil function and may lead to the development of novel therapeutics targeting neutrophil activation via hyaluronic acid or associated pathways.
Probiotics as a Tool for Regulating Molecular Mechanisms in Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Sikorska Michalina , Antosik-Wójcińska Anna Z. , Dominiak Monika
Published: February 2023

Depression is one of the main mental disorders. Pharmacological treatment of depression is often associated with delayed effects or insufficient efficacy. Consequently, there is a need to discover new therapeutic methods to cope with depression faster and more effectively. Several lines of evidence indicate that the use of probiotic therapy reduces depressive symptoms. Nonetheless, the exact mechanisms linking the gut microbiota and the central nervous system, as well as the potential mechanisms of action for probiotics, are still not entirely clarified. The aim of this review was to systematically summarize the available knowledge according to PRISMA guidelines on the molecular mechanisms linking probiotics and healthy populations with subclinical depression or anxiety symptoms, as well as depressed patients with or without comorbid somatic illnesses. The standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated. Twenty records were included. It has been found that probiotic administration is linked to a significant increase in BDNF levels during probiotic treatment compared to the placebo (SMD = 0.37, 95% CI [0.07, 0.68], p = 0.02) when considering the resolution of depressive symptoms in depressed patients with or without comorbid somatic illnesses. CRP levels were significantly lower (SMD = −0.47, 95% CI [0.75, −0.19], p = 0.001), and nitric oxide levels were significantly higher (SMD = 0.97, 95% CI [0.58, 1.36], p < 0.0001) in probiotic-treated patients compared to the placebo, however, only among depressed patients with somatic co-morbidities. There were no significant differences in IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and cortisol levels after probiotic administration between the intervention and control groups (all p > 0.05). Firm conclusions on the effectiveness of probiotics and their possible association with inflammatory markers in the healthy population (only with subclinical depressive or anxiety symptoms) cannot be drawn. The advent of clinical trials examining the long-term administration of probiotics could evaluate the long-term effectiveness of probiotics in treating depression and preventing its recurrence.
Nrf2 and Antioxidant Response in Animal Models of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Robertson R. Paul
Published: February 2023

This perspective examines the proposition that chronically elevated blood glucose levels caused by type 2 diabetes (T2D) harm body tissues by locally generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). A feed-forward scenario is described in which the initial onset of defective beta cell function T2D becomes sustained and causes chronic elevations in blood glucose, which flood metabolic pathways throughout the body, giving rise to abnormally high local levels of ROS. Most cells can defend themselves via a full complement of antioxidant enzymes that are activated by ROS. However, the beta cell itself does not contain catalase or glutathione peroxidases and thereby runs a greater risk of ROS-induced damage. In this review, previously published experiments are revisited to examine the concept that chronic hyperglycemia can lead to oxidative stress in the beta cell, how this relates to the absence of beta cell glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and whether this deficiency might be ameliorated by genetic enrichment of beta cell GPx and by oral antioxidants, including ebselen, a GPx mimetic.
Insulin Metabolism in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Secretion, Signaling, and Clearance
Authors: Herman Rok , Sikonja Jaka , Jensterle Mojca , Janez Andrej , Dolzan Vita
Published: February 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine and metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. Its heterogeneous clinical presentation is characterized by hyperandrogenemia, reproductive changes, polycystic ovary morphology, and insulin resistance (IR). The primary pathophysiological process in its multifactorial etiology has not yet been identified. However, the two most proposed core etiologies are the disruption of insulin metabolism and hyperandrogenemia, both of which begin to intertwine and propagate each other in the later stages of the disease. Insulin metabolism can be viewed as the interconnectedness of beta cell function, IR or insulin sensitivity, and insulin clearance. Previous studies of insulin metabolism in PCOS patients have yielded conflicting results, and literature reviews have focused mainly on the molecular mechanisms and clinical implications of IR. In this narrative review, we comprehensively explored the role of insulin secretion, clearance, and decreased sensitivity in target cells as a potential primary insult in PCOS pathogenesis, along with the molecular mechanism behind IR in PCOS.
A Comprehensive Review of Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism: From Epidemiology to Pathophysiology
Authors: Pastori Daniele , Cormaci Vito Maria , Marucci Silvia , Franchino Giovanni , Del Sole Francesco , Capozza Alessandro , Fallarino Alessia , Corso Chiara , Valeriani Emanuele , Menichelli Danilo , Pignatelli Pasquale
Published: February 2023

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cause of death worldwide. The incidence of VTE varies according to different countries, ranging from 1–2 per 1000 person-years in Western Countries, while it is lower in Eastern Countries (<1 per 1000 person-years). Many risk factors have been identified in patients developing VTE, but the relative contribution of each risk factor to thrombotic risk, as well as pathogenetic mechanisms, have not been fully described. Herewith, we provide a comprehensive review of the most common risk factors for VTE, including male sex, diabetes, obesity, smoking, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A Gene Mutation, Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1, oral contraceptives and hormonal replacement, long-haul flight, residual venous thrombosis, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, trauma and fractures, pregnancy, immobilization, antiphospholipid syndrome, surgery and cancer. Regarding the latter, the incidence of VTE seems highest in pancreatic, liver and non-small cells lung cancer (>70 per 1000 person-years) and lowest in breast, melanoma and prostate cancer (<20 per 1000 person-years). In this comprehensive review, we summarized the prevalence of different risk factors for VTE and the potential molecular mechanisms/pathogenetic mediators leading to VTE.
Multiple-P450 Gene Co-Up-Regulation in the Development of Permethrin Resistance in the House Fly, Musca domestica
Authors: Li Ming , Feng Xuechun , Reid William R. , Tang Fang , Liu Nannan
Published: February 2023

This paper reports a study conducted at the whole transcriptome level to characterize the P450 genes involved in the development of pyrethroid resistance, utilizing expression profile analyses of 86 cytochrome P450 genes in house fly strains with different levels of resistance to pyrethroids/permethrin. Interactions among the up-regulated P450 genes and possible regulatory factors in different autosomes were examined in house fly lines with different combinations of autosomes from a resistant house fly strain, ALHF. Eleven P450 genes that were significantly up-regulated, with levels > 2-fold those in the resistant ALHF house flies, were in CYP families 4 and 6 and located on autosomes 1, 3 and 5. The expression of these P450 genes was regulated by trans- and/or cis-acting factors, especially on autosomes 1 and 2. An in vivo functional study indicated that the up-regulated P450 genes also conferred permethrin resistance in Drosophila melanogaster transgenic lines. An in vitro functional study confirmed that the up-regulated P450 genes are able to metabolize not only cis- and trans-permethrin, but also two metabolites of permethrin, PBalc and PBald. In silico homology modeling and the molecular docking methodology further support the metabolic capacity of these P450s for permethrin and substrates. Taken together, the findings of this study highlight the important function of multi-up-regulated P450 genes in the development of insecticide resistance in house flies.
Impact of Applying Information and Communication Technology Tools in Physical Education Classes
Authors: Varga Attila , Révész László
Published: February 2023

The authors of the present study explored how ICT devices used in P.E. lessons determine psychomotor performance, perceived motivational climate, and motivation. The students were allowed to use ICT devices (smartphone, webpages, Facebook) during a four-week intervention. In the course of the research project aimed to assess the impact of the application of ICT devices on performance and motivation, the participants were divided into two test groups and one control group. The sample consisted of secondary school students including 21 males and 64 females with the Mage = 16.72 years. The results showed that in groups where ICT devices were used, performance (p = 0.04) and task orientation (p = 0.00) significantly improved. Meanwhile, in the group in which ICT devices were not used, the intervention resulted in improved performance (p = 0.00) and by the end of the project, this trend was coupled with increased Ego orientation (p = 0.00) and higher rate of amotivation (p = 0.04). It can be concluded that the use of ICT tools has a positive impact on performance and motivation.
Examination of Concrete Canvas under Quasi-Realistic Loading by Computed Tomography
Authors: Eller Balázs , Movahedi Rad Majid , Fekete Imre , Szalai Szabolcs , Harrach Dániel , Baranyai Gusztáv , Kurhan Dmytro , Sysyn Mykola , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: February 2023

The current paper concerns the investigation of CC (Concrete Canvas), a unique building material from the GCCM (geosynthetic cementitious composite mat) product group. The material is suitable for trench lining, trench paving, or even military construction activities, while the authors’ purpose is to investigate the application of the material to road and railway substructure improvement. This research was carried out to verify the material’s suitability for transport infrastructure and its beneficial effects. The authors’ previous study reported that the primary measurements were puncture, compression, and the parameters evaluated in four-point bending (laboratory) tests. However, based on the results, finite element modeling was not feasible because the testing of the composite material in a single layer did not provide an accurate indication. For this reason, the material characteristics required for modeling were investigated. A unique, novel testing procedure and assembly were performed, wherein the material was loaded under quasi-realistic conditions with a crushed stone ballast sample and other continuous particle size distribution samples in a closed polyethylene tube. In addition, the deformation of the material following deformed bonding was measured by computed tomography scanning, and the results were evaluated.
Phases and Interfaces in the Cr–Fe–Si Ternary System: X-ray Diffraction and Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Suvorova Elena I. , Arkharova Natalya A. , Ivanova Anna G. , Solomkin Fedor Yu. , Buffat Philippe A.
Published: February 2023

The ternary Cr-Fe-Si system was investigated with X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and electron diffraction. Samples melted at 1723 K were examined right after cooling or after annealing at 1073 K for 3 days to determine phases, grain sizes, and interphase interfaces. During annealing, a polymorphic transformation of the tetragonal α-FeSi2 to the orthorhombic β-FeSi2 phase occurs, while CrSi2 retains its hexagonal structure at high-temperature treatment. Thin layers of ε-FeSi with a cubic structure were observed and identified within the CrSi2 grains. Crystallographic orientation relationships are determined at the interphase interfaces. The contributions of lattice mismatch and thermal expansion coefficient misfit to deformation are discussed.
Virtual Reality Simulator versus Conventional Advanced Life Support Training for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Post-Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Peek Jette J. , Max Samuel A. , Bakhuis Wouter , Huig Isabelle C. , Rosalia Rodney A. , Sadeghi Amir H. , Mahtab Edris A. F.
Published: February 2023

External chest compressions are often ineffective for patients arresting after cardiac surgery, for whom emergency resternotomy may be required. A single-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) was performed, with participants being randomized to a virtual reality (VR) Cardiac Surgical Unit Advanced Life Support (CSU-ALS) simulator training arm or a conventional classroom CSU-ALS training arm. Twenty-eight cardiothoracic surgery (CTS) residents were included and subsequently assessed in a moulage scenario in groups of two, either participating as a leader or surgeon. The primary binary outcomes were two time targets: (1) delivering three stacked shocks within 1 min and (2) resternotomy within 5 min. Secondary outcomes were the number of protocol mistakes made and a questionnaire after the VR simulator. The conventional training group administered stacked shocks within 1 min in 43% (n = 6) of cases, and none in the VR group reached this target, missing it by an average of 25 s. The resternotomy time target was reached in 100% of the cases (n = 14) in the conventional training group and in 83% of the cases (n = 10) in the VR group. The VR group made 11 mistakes in total versus 15 for those who underwent conventional training. Participants reported that the VR simulator was useful and easy to use. The results show that the VR simulator can provide adequate CSU-ALS training. Moreover, VR training results in fewer mistakes suggesting that repetitive practice in an immersive environment improves skills.
Ticagrelor Can Regulate the Ion Channel Characteristics of Superior Cervical Ganglion Neurons after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cheng Lijun , Yu Lin , Zhan Xiaoping , Tse Gary , Liu Tong , Fu Huaying , Li Guangping
Published: February 2023

Background: The superior cervical ganglion (SCG) plays a key role in cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in the ion channel characteristics of the SCG following myocardial infarction (MI) and the role of pretreatment with the P2Y12 receptor antagonist ticagrelor (TIC). Methods: A total of 18 male rabbits were randomly divided into a control group, MI group, and P2Y12 receptor antagonist (TIC) group (abbreviated as the TIC group). Rabbit MI was performed via two abdominal subcutaneous injections of 150 mg·kg−1·d−1 of isoproterenol (ISO) with an interval of 24 h. TIC pretreatment at 20 mg·kg−1·d−1 was administered via gavage for two consecutive days. The cardiac function of each group was evaluated with echocardiography. ADP receptor P2Y12 expressions in SCGs were determined using RT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining. Ion channel characteristics of SCG neurons were measured using a whole-cell patch clamp. Intracellular calcium concentrations for SCG neurons were measured using confocal microscopy. Results: Cardiac function was reduced in the rabbits of the MI group, the sympathetic nerve activity of SCGs was increased, and the current amplitude of the neuron ion channel was increased. MI led to alterations in the activation and inactivation characteristics of INa channels accompanied by increased expression of P2Y12 in SCGs. Most of these abnormalities were prevented by TIC pretreatment in the TIC group. Conclusions: TIC pretreatment could attenuate the increase in P2Y12 expression in SCGs and the changes to the ion channel characteristics of SCG neurons after MI. This may be the mechanism underlying the cardiac protective effects of TIC.
Opportunistic Genetic Screening for Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Heart Transplant Patients
Authors: Salgado María , Díaz-Molina Beatriz , Cuesta-Llavona Elías , Aparicio Andrea , Fernández María , Alonso Vanesa , Avanzas Pablo , Pascual Isaac , Neuhalfen David , Coto Eliecer , Gómez Juan , Lorca Rebeca
Published: February 2023

Heart transplantation remains the gold standard for the treatment of advanced heart failure (HF). Identification of the etiology of HF is mandatory, as the specific pathology can determine subsequent treatment. Early identification of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), the most common genetic disorder associated with premature cardiovascular disease, has a potential important impact on clinical management and public health. We evaluated the genetic information in the genes associated with FH in a cohort of 140 heart-transplanted patients. All patients underwent NGS genetic testing including LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9. We identified four carriers of rare pathogenic variants in LDLR and APOB. Although all four identified carriers had dyslipidemia, only the one carrying the pathogenic variant LDLR c.676T>C was transplanted due to CAD. Another patient with heart valvular disease was carrier of the controversial LDLR c.2096C>T. Two additional patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy were carriers of variants in APOB (c.4672A>G and c.5600G>A). In our cohort, we identified the genetic cause of FH in patients that otherwise would not have been diagnosed. Opportunistic genetic testing for FH provides important information to perform personalized medicine and risk stratification not only for patients but also for relatives at concealed high cardiovascular risk. Including the LDLR gene in standard NGS cardiovascular diagnostics panels should be considered.
Dependence of Left Ventricular Rotational Mechanics on Left Atrial Volumes in Non-Smoker Healthy Adults: Analysis Based on the Three-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiographic MAGYAR-Healthy Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Ruzsa Zoltán , Achim Alexandru , Ambrus Nóra , Lengyel Csaba
Published: February 2023

Introduction: As has been established, the left ventricle (LV) and the left atrium (LA) form an organic unit of the left heart; however, little is known about the dependence of LV rotational parameters on LA volumes, even in healthy circumstances. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the associations between basal and apical LV rotations and LA volumes and volume-based functional properties throughout the cardiac cycle in healthy adults by three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Methods: The present study comprised 167 healthy adults (age: 33.4 ± 12.6 years, 77 males) with normally directed LV rotational mechanics. All subjects underwent complete two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography with three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (3DSTE)-derived data acquisition. The 3DSTE-derived LA volumes and LV rotational parameters were determined at a later date. Results: An increasing end-systolic maximum LA volume (Vmax) was associated with increasing pre-atrial-contraction early (VpreA) and minimum end-diastolic (Vmin) LA volumes, and all stroke volumes were increased as well. Systolic basal left ventricular rotation (LVrot) was highest in the case of the highest systolic Vmax and early-diastolic VpreA. Apical LVrot did not show obvious associations with any increasing LA volumes. The highest systolic basal LVrot was associated with significantly increased diastolic VpreA and Vmin. Reduced diastolic LA volumes (VpreA, Vmin) were seen in the case of increased apical LVrot. An increasing basal LVrot was associated with the tendentious lowering of the apical LVrot and the significant elevation of LV twist. Similarly, an increasing apical LVrot was associated with the tendentious lowering of basal LVrot and the significant elevation of LV twist. Conclusions: Strong associations and adaptations between 3DSTE-derived LA volumes throughout the cardiac cycle and LV rotational mechanics were evidenced, even in healthy circumstances.
Current Therapeutic Strategies for Patients with Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma: Oncologic and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Bozec Alexandre , Poissonnet Gilles , Dassonville Olivier , Culié Dorian
Published: February 2023

Hypopharyngeal cancer is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage and is associated with a high risk of recurrence and poor survival rates. Although they differ greatly in terms of prognosis, hypopharyngeal cancers are usually treated together with laryngeal cancers in clinical trials. Therefore, there are very few studies that focus specifically on patients with hypopharyngeal carcinoma. As a result, the therapeutic management of these patients is highly debated, and their clinical outcomes are poorly reported. The aim of this review is therefore to discuss the current therapeutic options in patients with hypopharyngeal carcinoma and their oncologic and functional outcomes. Patients with early-stage tumors can be treated either by conservative surgery (including transoral robot-assisted surgery) or by RT alone. However, most patients are diagnosed with locally advanced tumors that cannot be treated surgically without total laryngectomy. In this situation, the critical issue is to select the patients eligible for a larynx preservation therapeutic program. However, radical surgery with total laryngectomy still plays an important role in the management of patients with hypopharyngeal carcinoma, either as the primary treatment modality (T4 resectable primary tumor, contraindication to larynx preservation therapies) or, more commonly, as salvage treatment.