bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of the Social Environment in Pacing and Sports Performance: A Narrative Review from a Self-Regulatory Perspective
Authors: Sakalidis Kandianos Emmanouil , Menting Stein Gerrit Paul , Elferink-Gemser Marije Titia , Hettinga Florentina Johanna
Published: December 2022

As proposed by Triplett in 1898 and evidenced by a recent series of lab and field studies, racing against other competitors consistently results in increased performance compared to when racing alone. To explain this phenomenon, we will explore the process of self-regulation, a process relevant to pacing, which is linked to athletes’ emotions and facilitates their sports performance optimization. We will apply the cyclical model of Self-regulation of Learning to pacing and sports performance settings and explore the role of the social environment (in particular, opponents but also coaches) in each phase of the self-regulatory model. It seems that the social environment could be considered as a significant self-regulatory and sports performance facilitator. More specifically, athletes can focus on their social environment (opponents) when they have to set goals and select appropriate strategies to achieve them (forethought phase), monitor and manage their actions and their emotions (performance phase), and make self-judgements and choose self-reactions (self-reflection). Moreover, the social environment (coaches) can observe, step in, and facilitate these intricate processes. These findings could guide athletes and their coaches towards more effective pacing acquisition and development, and better sports performance, which could be of particular relevance for youth athletes or athletes with disabilities impacting on their self-regulatory skills.
Evaluation of an Air Cleaning Device Equipped with Filtration and UV: Comparison of Removal Efficiency on Particulate Matter and Viable Airborne Bacteria in the Inlet and Treated Air
Authors: Li Peiyang , Koziel Jacek A. , Macedo Nubia , Zimmerman Jeffrey J. , Wrzesinski Danielle , Sobotka Erin , Balderas Mateo , Walz William B. , Paris Reid Vincent , Lee Myeongseong , Liu Dongjie , Yedilbayev Bauyrzhan , Ramirez Brett C. , Jenks William S.
Published: December 2022

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, improving indoor air quality (IAQ) has become vital for the public as COVID-19 and other infectious diseases can transmit via inhalable aerosols. Air cleaning devices with filtration and targeted pollutant treatment capabilities can help improve IAQ. However, only a few filtration/UV devices have been formally tested for their effectiveness, and little data is publicly available and UV doses comparable. In this research, we upgraded a particulate matter (PM) air filtration prototype by adding UV-C (germicidal) light. We developed realistic UV dose metrics for fast-moving air and selected performance scenarios to quantify the mitigation effect on viable airborne bacteria and PM. The targeted PM included total suspended particulate (TSP) and a coarse-to-fine range sized at PM10, PM4, PM2.5, and PM1. The PM and viable airborne bacteria concentrations were compared between the inlet and outlet of the prototype at 0.5 and 1.0 m3/s (low and high) air flow modes. The upgraded prototype inactivated nearly 100% of viable airborne bacteria and removed up to 97% of TSP, 91% of PM10, 87% of PM4, 87% of PM2.5, and 88% of PM1. The performance in the low flow rate mode was generally better than in the high flow rate mode. The combination of filtration and UV-C treatment provided ‘double-barrier’ assurance for air purification and lowered the risk of spreading infectious micro-organisms.
Characteristics of False-Positive Active Fires for Biomass Burning Monitoring in Indonesia from VIIRS Data and Local Geo-Features
Authors: Sofan Parwati , Yulianto Fajar , Sakti Anjar Dimara
Published: December 2022

In this study, we explored the characteristics of thermal anomalies other than biomass burning to establish a zone map of false-positive active fires to support efficient ground validation for firefighters. We used the ASCII file of VIIRS active fire data (VNP14IMGML), which provides attributes of thermal anomalies every month from 2012 to 2020 in Indonesia. The characteristics of thermal anomalies other than biomass burning were explored using fire radiative power (FRP) values, confidence levels of active fire, fire pixel areas, and their allocations to permanent geographical features (i.e., volcano, river, lake, coastal line, road, and industrial/settlement areas). The Tukey test showed that there was a significant difference between the mean FRP values of the other thermal anomalies, type-1 (active volcano), type-2 (other static land sources), and type-3 (detection over water/offshore), at a confidence level of 95%. Most thermal anomalies other than biomass burning were in the nominal confidence level with a fire pixel area of 0.21 km2. High spatial images validated these thermal anomaly types as false positives of biomass burning. A zone map of potential false-positive active fire for biomass burning was established in this study by referring to the allocation of thermal anomalies from permanent geographical features. Implementing the zone map removed approximately 13% of the VIIRS active fires as the false positive of biomass burning. Insights gleaned through this study will support efficient ground validation of actual forest/land fires.
Resveratrol-like Compounds as SIRT1 Activators
Authors: Ciccone Lidia , Piragine Eugenia , Brogi Simone , Camodeca Caterina , Fucci Raffaele , Calderone Vincenzo , Nencetti Susanna , Martelli Alma , Orlandini Elisabetta
Published: December 2022

The sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activator resveratrol has emerged as a promising candidate for the prevention of vascular oxidative stress, which is a trigger for endothelial dysfunction. However, its clinical use is limited by low oral bioavailability. In this work, we have applied a previously developed computational protocol to identify the most promising derivatives from our in-house chemical library of resveratrol derivatives. The most promising compounds in terms of SIRT1 activation and oral bioavailability, predicted in silico, were evaluated for their ability to activate the isolated SIRT1 enzyme. Then, we assessed the antioxidant effects of the most effective derivative, compound 3d, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) injured with H2O2 100 µM. The SIRT1 activator 3d significantly preserved cell viability and prevented an intracellular reactive oxygen species increase in HUVECs exposed to the oxidative stimulus. Such effects were partially reduced in the presence of a sirtuin inhibitor, sirtinol, confirming the potential role of sirtuins in the activity of resveratrol and its derivatives. Although 3d appeared less effective than resveratrol in activating the isolated enzyme, the effects exhibited by both compounds in HUVECs were almost superimposable, suggesting a higher ability of 3d to cross cell membranes and activate the intracellular target SIRT1.
Biological Functions of Hydrogen Sulfide in Plants
Authors: Yang Zhifeng , Wang Xiaoyu , Feng Jianrong , Zhu Shuhua
Published: December 2022

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which is a gasotransmitter, can be biosynthesized and participates in various physiological and biochemical processes in plants. H2S also positively affects plants’ adaptation to abiotic stresses. Here, we summarize the specific ways in which H2S is endogenously synthesized and metabolized in plants, along with the agents and methods used for H2S research, and outline the progress of research on the regulation of H2S on plant metabolism and morphogenesis, abiotic stress tolerance, and the series of different post-translational modifications (PTMs) in which H2S is involved, to provide a reference for future research on the mechanism of H2S action.
Thyroid Hormone Transporters in Pregnancy and Fetal Development
Authors: Chen Zhongli , Meima Marcel E. , Peeters Robin P. , Visser W. Edward
Published: December 2022

Thyroid hormone is essential for fetal (brain) development. Plasma membrane transporters control the intracellular bioavailability of thyroid hormone. In the past few decades, 15 human thyroid hormone transporters have been identified, and among them, mutations in monocarboxylate transporter (MCT)8 and organic anion transporting peptide (OATP)1C1 are associated with clinical phenotypes. Different animal and human models have been employed to unravel the (patho)-physiological role of thyroid hormone transporters. However, most studies on thyroid hormone transporters focus on postnatal development. This review summarizes the research on the thyroid hormone transporters in pregnancy and fetal development, including their substrate preference, expression and tissue distribution, and physiological and pathophysiological role in thyroid homeostasis and clinical disorders. As the fetus depends on the maternal thyroid hormone supply, especially during the first half of pregnancy, the review also elaborates on thyroid hormone transport across the human placental barrier. Future studies may reveal how the different transporters contribute to thyroid hormone homeostasis in fetal tissues to properly facilitate development. Employing state-of-the-art human models will enable a better understanding of their roles in thyroid hormone homeostasis.
Comparison of Body Composition, Muscle Strength and Cardiometabolic Profile in Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mager Diana R. , MacDonald Krista , Duke Reena L. , Avedzi Hayford M. , Deehan Edward C. , Yap Jason , Siminoski Kerry , Haqq Andrea M.
Published: December 2022

Syndromic and non-syndromic obesity conditions in children, such as Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), both lower quality of life and increase risk for chronic health complications, which further increase health service utilization and cost. In a pilot observational study, we compared body composition and muscle strength in children aged 7–18 years with either PWS (n = 9), NAFLD (n = 14), or healthy controls (n = 16). Anthropometric and body composition measures (e.g., body weight, circumferences, skinfolds, total/segmental composition, and somatotype), handgrip strength, six minute-walk-test (6MWT), physical activity, and markers of liver and cardiometabolic dysfunction (e.g., ALT, AST, blood pressure, glucose, insulin, and lipid profile) were measured using standard procedures and validated tools. Genotyping was determined for children with PWS. Children with PWS had reduced lean body mass (total/lower limb mass), lower handgrip strength, 6MWT and increased sedentary activity compared to healthy children or those with NAFLD (p < 0.05). Children with PWS, including those of normal body weight, had somatotypes consistent with relative increased adiposity (endomorphic) and reduced skeletal muscle robustness (mesomorphic) when compared to healthy children and those with NAFLD. Somatotype characterizations were independent of serum markers of cardiometabolic dysregulation but were associated with increased prevalence of abnormal systolic and diastolic blood pressure Z-scores (p < 0.05). Reduced lean body mass and endomorphic somatotypes were associated with lower muscle strength/functionality and sedentary lifestyles, particularly in children with PWS. These findings are relevant as early detection of deficits in muscle strength and functionality can ensure effective targeted treatments that optimize physical activity and prevent complications into adulthood.
Sensing Magnetic Field and Intermolecular Interactions in Diamagnetic Solution Using Residual Dipolar Couplings of Zephycandidine
Authors: Kowalczyk Radoslaw M. , Murphy Patrick J. , Tibble-Howlings Jamie
Published: December 2022

An unusual residual dipolar coupling of methylene protons was recorded in NMR spectra because aromatic zephycandidine has preferential orientation at the external magnetic field. The observed splitting contains contribution from the dipole–dipole D-coupling and the anisotropic component of J-coupling. Absolute values of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility |Δχax| are larger for protic solvents because of the hydrogen-bonding compared to aprotic solvents for which polar and dispersion forces are more important. The energy barrier for the reorientation due to hydrogen-bonding is 1.22 kJ/mol in methanol-d4, 0.85 kJ/mol in ethanol-d6 and 0.87 kJ/mol in acetic acid-d6. In dimethyl sulfoxide-d6, 1.08 kJ/mol corresponds to the interaction of solvent lone pair electrons with π-electrons of zephycandidine. This energy barrier decreases for acetone-d6 which has smaller electric dipole moment. In acetonitrile-d3, there is no energy barrier which suggests solvent ordering around the solute due to the solvent-solvent interactions. The largest absolute values of the magnetic anisotropy are observed for aromatic benezene-d6 and tolune-d8 which have their own preferential orientation and enhance the order in the solution. The magnetic anisotropy of “isolated” zephycandidine, not hindered by intermolecular interaction could be estimated from the correlation between Δχax and cohesion energy density.
Precise Sn-Doping Modulation for Optimizing CdWO4 Nanorod Photoluminescence
Authors: Manjunatha K. , Ho Ming-Kang , Hsu Tsu-En , Chiu Hsin-Hao , Li Tai-Yue , Kumar B. Vijaya , Reddy P. Muralidhar , Chan Ting San , Wu Yu-Hao , Lin Bi-Hsuan , Karmenyan Artashes , Cheng Chia-Liang , Gandhi Ashish Chhaganlal , Wu Sheng Yun
Published: December 2022

The cadmium tungstate rods have been given much attention due to their potential for usage in numerous luminescent applications. We have prepared single crystalline Sn-doped Cd1−xSnxWO4 (where x = 0, 1, 3, and 5%) nanorods (NRDs) and characterized them using refined X-ray diffraction and TEM analysis, revealing a monoclinic phase and a crystallite size that decreased from 62 to 38 nm as Sn concentration increased. Precise Sn doping modulation in CdWO4 NRDs causes surface recombination of electrons and holes, which causes the PL intensity to decrease as the Sn content rises. The chromaticity diagram shows that an increase in the Sn content caused a change in the emission color from sky blue to light green, which was attributed to the increased defect density. The photoluminescence time decay curve of all samples fit well with double-order exponential decay, and the average decay lifetime was found to be 1.11, 0.93, and 1.16 ns for Cd1−xSnxWO4, x = 0, 1, and 5%, respectively. This work provides an understanding of the behavior of Sn-doped CdWO4 NRDs during electron transitions and the physical nature of emission that could be used in bio-imaging, light sources, displays, and other applications.
A Fatal Case of Metastatic Pulmonary Calcification during the Puerperium
Authors: Chighine Alberto , Corona Andrea , Catani Gualtiero , Conte Celeste , Demontis Roberto , Nioi Matteo
Published: December 2022

We present an unusual case of a fatal respiratory failure in a young woman developed two weeks after she gave birth at home. Circumstantial and clinical features of the case were strongly suggestive for a ‘classical’ septic origin of the respiratory symptoms. Autopsy, together with histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses allowed demonstrating a massive calcium redistribution consisting of an important osteolysis, especially from cranial bones and abnormal accumulation in lungs and other organs. Such physiopathology was driven by a primary hyperparathyroidism secondary to a parathyroid carcinoma as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. This very rare case is furthermore characterised by a regular pregnancy course, ended with the birth of a healthy new-born. A complex interaction between pregnancy physiology and hyperparathyroidism might be hypothesised, determining the discrepancy between the relative long period of wellness and the tumultuous cascade occurred in the puerperium.
Functional Effects of Epilepsy Associated KCNT1 Mutations Suggest Pathogenesis via Aberrant Inhibitory Neuronal Activity
Authors: Rychkov Grigori Y. , Shaukat Zeeshan , Lim Chiao Xin , Hussain Rashid , Roberts Ben J. , Bonardi Claudia M. , Rubboli Guido , Meaney Brandon F. , Whitney Robyn , Møller Rikke S. , Ricos Michael G. , Dibbens Leanne M.
Published: December 2022

KCNT1 (K+ channel subfamily T member 1) is a sodium-activated potassium channel highly expressed in the nervous system which regulates neuronal excitability by contributing to the resting membrane potential and hyperpolarisation following a train of action potentials. Gain of function mutations in the KCNT1 gene are the cause of neurological disorders associated with different forms of epilepsy. To gain insights into the underlying pathobiology we investigated the functional effects of 9 recently published KCNT1 mutations, 4 previously studied KCNT1 mutations, and one previously unpublished KCNT1 variant of unknown significance. We analysed the properties of KCNT1 potassium currents and attempted to find a correlation between the changes in KCNT1 characteristics due to the mutations and severity of the neurological disorder they cause. KCNT1 mutations identified in patients with epilepsy were introduced into the full length human KCNT1 cDNA using quick-change site-directed mutagenesis protocol. Electrophysiological properties of different KCNT1 constructs were investigated using a heterologous expression system (HEK293T cells) and patch clamping. All mutations studied, except T314A, increased the amplitude of KCNT1 currents, and some mutations shifted the voltage dependence of KCNT1 open probability, increasing the proportion of channels open at the resting membrane potential. The T314A mutation did not affect KCNT1 current amplitude but abolished its voltage dependence. We observed a positive correlation between the severity of the neurological disorder and the KCNT1 channel open probability at resting membrane potential. This suggests that gain of function KCNT1 mutations cause epilepsy by increasing resting potassium conductance and suppressing the activity of inhibitory neurons. A reduction in action potential firing in inhibitory neurons due to excessively high resting potassium conductance leads to disinhibition of neural circuits, hyperexcitability and seizures.
Agricultural Applications of Superabsorbent Polymer Hydrogels
Authors: Krasnopeeva Elena L. , Panova Gaiane G. , Yakimansky Alexander V.
Published: December 2022

This review presents data from the past five years on the use of polymeric superabsorbent hydrogels in agriculture as water and nutrient storage and retention materials, as well as additives that improve soil properties. The use of synthetic and natural polymeric hydrogels for these purposes is considered. Although natural polymers, such as various polysaccharides, have undoubted advantages related to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low cost, they are inferior to synthetic polymers in terms of water absorption and water retention properties. In this regard, the most promising are semi-synthetic polymeric superabsorbents based on natural polymers modified with additives or grafted chains of synthetic polymers, which can combine the advantages of natural and synthetic polymeric hydrogels without their disadvantages. Such semi-synthetic polymers are of great interest for agricultural applications, especially in dry regions, also because they can be used to create systems for the slow release of nutrients into the soil, which are necessary to increase crop yields using environmentally friendly technologies.
Heart Failure in Menopause: Treatment and New Approaches
Authors: da Silva Jaqueline S. , Montagnoli Tadeu Lima , de Sá Mauro Paes Leme , Zapata-Sudo Gisele
Published: December 2022

Aging is an important risk factor for the development of heart failure (HF) and half of patients with HF have preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) which is more common in elderly women. In general, sex differences that lead to discrepancies in risk factors and to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) have been attributed to the reduced level of circulating estrogen during menopause. Estrogen receptors adaptively modulate fibrotic, apoptotic, inflammatory processes and calcium homeostasis, factors that are directly involved in the HFpEF. Therefore, during menopause, estrogen depletion reduces the cardioprotection. Preclinical menopause models demonstrated that several signaling pathways and organ systems are closely involved in the development of HFpEF, including dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), chronic inflammatory process and alteration in the sympathetic nervous system. Thus, this review explores thealterations observed in the condition of HFpEF induced by menopause and the therapeutic targets with potential to interfere with the disease progress.
Adamantane-Substituted Purine Nucleosides: Synthesis, Host–Guest Complexes with β-Cyclodextrin and Biological Activity
Authors: Rudolfová Jana , Kryštof Vladimír , Nečas Marek , Vícha Robert , Rouchal Michal
Published: December 2022

Purine nucleosides represent an interesting group of nitrogen heterocycles, showing a wide range of biological effects. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of 6,9-disubstituted and 2,6,9-trisubstituted purine ribonucleosides via consecutive nucleophilic aromatic substitution, glycosylation, and deprotection of the ribofuranose unit. We prepared eight new purine nucleosides bearing unique adamantylated aromatic amines at position 6. Additionally, the ability of the synthesized purine nucleosides to form stable host–guest complexes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) experiments. The in vitro antiproliferative activity of purine nucleosides and their equimolar mixtures with β-CD was tested against two types of human tumor cell line. Six adamantane-based purine nucleosides showed an antiproliferative activity in the micromolar range. Moreover, their effect was only slightly suppressed by the presence of β-CD, which was probably due to the competitive binding of the corresponding purine nucleoside inside the β-CD cavity.
Impact of Sulfated Hyaluronan on Bone Metabolism in Diabetic Charcot Neuroarthropathy and Degenerative Arthritis
Authors: Schulze Sabine , Neuber Christin , Möller Stephanie , Hempel Ute , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Pietzsch Jens , Rammelt Stefan
Published: December 2022

Bone in diabetes mellitus is characterized by an altered microarchitecture caused by abnormal metabolism of bone cells. Together with diabetic neuropathy, this is associated with serious complications including impaired bone healing culminating in complicated fractures and dislocations, especially in the lower extremities, so-called Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN). The underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood, and treatment of CN is challenging. Several in vitro and in vivo investigations have suggested positive effects on bone regeneration by modifying biomaterials with sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG). Recent findings described a beneficial effect of sGAG for bone healing in diabetic animal models compared to healthy animals. We therefore aimed at studying the effects of low- and high-sulfated hyaluronan derivatives on osteoclast markers as well as gene expression patterns of osteoclasts and osteoblasts from patients with diabetic CN compared to non-diabetic patients with arthritis at the foot and ankle. Exposure to sulfated hyaluronan (sHA) derivatives reduced the exaggerated calcium phosphate resorption as well as the expression of genes associated with bone resorption in both groups, but more pronounced in patients with CN. Moreover, sHA derivatives reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in osteoclasts of patients with CN. The effects of sHA on osteoblasts differed only marginally between patients with CN and non-diabetic patients with arthritis. These results suggest balancing effects of sHA on osteoclastic bone resorption parameters in diabetes.
TRPV4 Promotes Metastasis in Melanoma by Regulating Cell Motility through Cytoskeletal Rearrangement
Authors: Huang Shuai , Yu Suyun , Deng Rui , Liu Huan , Ding Yushi , Sun Yifan , Chen Wenxing , Wang Aiyun , Wei Zhonghong , Lu Yin
Published: December 2022

The abnormal expression of Transient Receptor Potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4) is closely related to the progression of multiple tumors. In addition, TRPV4 is increasingly being considered a potential target for cancer therapy, especially in tumor metastasis prevention. However, the biological correlation between TRPV4 and tumor metastasis, as well as the specific role of TRPV4 in malignant melanoma metastasis, is poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to examine the role of TRPV4 in melanoma metastasis through experiments and clinical data analysis, and the underlying anticancer mechanism of Baicalin, a natural compound, and its inhibitory effect on TRPV4 with in vivo and in vitro experiments. Our findings suggested that TRPV4 promotes metastasis in melanoma by regulating cell motility via rearranging the cytoskeletal, and Baicalin can inhibit cancer metastasis, whose mechanisms reverse the recruitment of activated cofilin to leading-edge protrusion and the increasing phosphorylation level of cortactin, which is provoked by TRPV4 activation.
Coxiella burnetii and Bartonella Endocarditis Diagnosed by Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Wang Weiteng , Chen Oudi , Liu Weijiang , Gan Lixi , Li Xin , Ma Qingyan , Hu Xuejiao , Jian Xuhua
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Culture-negative endocarditis is challenging to diagnose. Here, we retrospectively identified 23 cases of Coxiella burnetii and Bartonella endocarditis by metagenomic next-generation sequencing. (2) Methods: Twenty-three patients with culture-negative endocarditis were retrospectively enrolled from Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (n = 23) between April 2019 and December 2021. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing was performed on blood (n = 22) and excised cardiac valvular tissue samples (n = 22) for etiological identification, and Sanger sequencing was performed for pathogenic diagnostic verification. The demographic and clinical data of the 23 patients were obtained from hospital electronic health records. (3) Results: A total of 23 male patients (median age, 56 years (interquartile range, 16)) with culture-negative endocarditis were diagnosed with Coxiella burnetii (n = 21) or Bartonella (n = 2) species infection by metagenomic next-generation sequencing. All patients underwent cardiac surgery. The resected tissue exhibited both a significantly higher number of unique suspected pathogen read-pairs and more unique pathogen read-pairs than the blood specimens. The results of Sanger sequencing tests on all remaining tissue and blood specimens were positive. Oral doxycycline was added to the antibiotic regimen for at least 1.5 years according to etiology. A total of 21 patients (91%) were discharged, and 20 patients were healthy at the 21-month (interquartile range, 15) follow-up visit. One patient exhibited endocarditis relapse with the same pathogen from inadequate antibiotic administration. The last 2 patients (9%) developed septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome postoperatively and died shortly after discharge. (4) Conclusions: CNE caused by C. burnetii and Bartonella species is challenging to diagnose and exhibits poor outcome due to delayed treatment. In response, mNGS, characterized by high sensitivity and rapid results, is an effective alternative for the etiological identification of C. burnetii and Bartonella endocarditis.
Preoperative Risk Stratification of Increased MIB-1 Labeling Index in Pituitary Adenoma: A Newly Proposed Prognostic Scoring System
Authors: Maiseyeu Ivan , Güresir Ági , Vatter Hartmut , Herrlinger Ulrich , Becker Albert , Wach Johannes , Güresir Erdem
Published: December 2022

The MIB-1 index is an important risk factor for progression-free survival (PFS) in pituitary adenoma (PA). Preoperatively, the MIB-1 index is not available in the decision-making process. A preoperative method regarding MIB-1 index estimation in PA has not been evaluated so far. Between 2011 and 2021, 109 patients with tumor morphology data, MIB-1 index data, and inflammatory and pituitary hormone laboratory values underwent surgery for PA. An MIB-1 index cutoff point (≥4/<4%) determines the probability of PFS in completely resected PA. An elevated MIB-1 index (≥4%) was present in 32 cases (29.4%) and was significantly associated with increased IGF-1, age ≤ 60, increased ACTH, and increased fibrinogen levels in the multivariable analysis. A scoring system (“FATE”) using preoperative IGF-1, age, ACTH, and plasma fibrinogen level enables the estimation of the MIB-1 index (sensitivity 72%, specificity 68%). The FATE score is also significantly associated with the time to PA progression after the complete resection of the PA. We propose the FATE score to preoperatively estimate the risk of an elevated MIB-1 index (≥4%), which might enable tailoring to medical decision-making, and follow-up interval scheduling, as well as inform future studies analyzing proliferative activities.
Vitamin D and Healthcare Service Utilization in Children: Insights from a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ferrante Giuliana , Fasola Salvatore , Piazza Michele , Tenero Laura , Zaffanello Marco , La Grutta Stefania , Piacentini Giorgio
Published: December 2022

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is a global health issue: an association has been demonstrated between vitamin D deficiency and a myriad of acute and chronic illnesses. Data regarding vitamin D status among children hospitalized with non-critical illnesses are scanty. We aimed to: (1) identify profiles of children hospitalized due to non-critical illnesses, using vitamin D levels as the driving outcome; (2) assess the association between patient profiles and length of stay. The study included 854 patients (1–17 years old) who underwent blood tests for detecting vitamin D levels. A regression tree was used to stratify patients. The relationship between vitamin D levels and length of stay was explored using Poisson regression. The regression tree identified three subgroups. Group A (16%): African, North African, Hispanic, and Indian patients. Group B (62%): Caucasian and Asian patients hospitalized for respiratory, metabolic, ill-defined, infective, and genitourinary diseases. Group C (22%): Caucasian and Asian patients hospitalized for digestive, nervous, and musculoskeletal diseases, blood and skin diseases, and injuries. Mean serum vitamin D level (ng/mL) was 13.7 (SD = 9.4) in Group A, 20.5 (10.0) in Group B, and 26.2 (12.6) in Group C. Group B was associated with the highest BMI z-score (p < 0.001) and the highest frequency of preterm births (p = 0.041). Mean length of stay was longer in Group A than in the other groups (p < 0.001) and decreased significantly by 9.8% (p = 0.024) in Group A and by 5% (p = 0.029) in Group B per 10 ng/mL increase in vitamin D level. We identified three subgroups of hospitalized children, defined according to ethnicity and discharge diagnosis, and characterized by increasing vitamin D levels. Vitamin D levels were associated with length of hospitalization.
Biopsychosocial Response to the COVID-19 Lockdown in People with Major Depressive Disorder and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Siddi Sara , Giné-Vázquez Iago , Bailon Raquel , Matcham Faith , Lamers Femke , Kontaxis Spyridon , Laporta Estela , Garcia Esther , Arranz Belen , Dalla Costa Gloria , Guerrero Ana Isabel , Zabalza Ana , Buron Mathias Due , Comi Giancarlo , Leocani Letizia , Annas Peter , Hotopf Matthew , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Magyari Melinda , Sørensen Per S. , Montalban Xavier , Lavelle Grace , Ivan Alina , Oetzmann Carolin , White Katie M. , Difrancesco Sonia , Locatelli Patrick , Mohr David C. , Aguiló Jordi , Narayan Vaibhav , Folarin Amos , Dobson Richard J. B. , Dineley Judith , Leightley Daniel , Cummins Nicholas , Vairavan Srinivasan , Ranjan Yathart , Rashid Zulqarnain , Rintala Aki , Girolamo Giovanni De , Preti Antonio , Simblett Sara , Wykes Til ,   PAB Members, Myin-Germeys Inez , Haro Josep Maria ,   on behalf of the RADAR-CNS Consortium
Published: December 2022

Background: Changes in lifestyle, finances and work status during COVID-19 lockdowns may have led to biopsychosocial changes in people with pre-existing vulnerabilities such as Major Depressive Disorders (MDDs) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Methods: Data were collected as a part of the RADAR-CNS (Remote Assessment of Disease and Relapse—Central Nervous System) program. We analyzed the following data from long-term participants in a decentralized multinational study: symptoms of depression, heart rate (HR) during the day and night; social activity; sedentary state, steps and physical activity of varying intensity. Linear mixed-effects regression analyses with repeated measures were fitted to assess the changes among three time periods (pre, during and post-lockdown) across the groups, adjusting for depression severity before the pandemic and gender. Results: Participants with MDDs (N = 255) and MS (N = 214) were included in the analyses. Overall, depressive symptoms remained stable across the three periods in both groups. A lower mean HR and HR variation were observed between pre and during lockdown during the day for MDDs and during the night for MS. HR variation during rest periods also decreased between pre- and post-lockdown in both clinical conditions. We observed a reduction in physical activity for MDDs and MS upon the introduction of lockdowns. The group with MDDs exhibited a net increase in social interaction via social network apps over the three periods. Conclusions: Behavioral responses to the lockdown measured by social activity, physical activity and HR may reflect changes in stress in people with MDDs and MS. Remote technology monitoring might promptly activate an early warning of physical and social alterations in these stressful situations. Future studies must explore how stress does or does not impact depression severity.
Quality of Life Following Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatments in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ghanbari Zinat , Ghaemi Marjan , Shafiee Arman , Jelodarian Parivash , Hosseini Reihaneh Sadat , Pouyamoghaddam Shahla , Montazeri Ali
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Quality of life (QoL) improvement is one of the main outcomes in the management of pelvic organ prolapse as a chronic illness in women. This systematic review aimed to investigate the impact of surgical or pessary treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) on quality of life. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was applied. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched for original articles that evaluated the QoL before and after surgical interventions or pessary in pelvic organ prolapse from 1 January 2012 until 30 June 2022 with a combination of proper keywords. Included studies were categorized based on interventions, and they were tabulated to summarize the results. Results: Overall, 587 citations were retrieved. Of these, 76 articles were found eligible for final review. Overall, three categories of intervention were identified: vaginal surgeries (47 studies), abdominal surgeries (18 studies), and pessary intervention (11 studies). Almost all interventions were associated with improved quality of life. The results of the meta-analysis showed a significant association between the employment of surgical approach techniques (including vaginal and abdominal surgeries) and the quality of life (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI) (MD: −48.08, 95% CI: −62.34 to −33.77, p-value < 0.01), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ) (MD: −33.41, 95% CI: −43.48 to −23.34, p < 0.01)) and sexual activity of patients with pelvic organ prolapse (Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire (PISQ) (MD: 4.84, 95% CI: 1.75 to 7.92, p < 0.01)). Furthermore, narrative synthesis for studies investigating the effect of the pessary approach showed a positive association between the use of this instrument and improvement in the quality of life and sexual activity. Conclusions: The results of our study revealed a significant improvement in the women’s quality of life following abdominal and vaginal reconstructive surgery. The use of pessary was also associated with increased patient quality of life.
Investigating the Clinical Profile of Suicide Attempters Who Used a Violent Suicidal Means
Authors: Lübbert Marlehn , Bahlmann Lydia , Sobanski Thomas , Schulz Alexandra , Kastner Ulrich W. , Walter Martin , Jollant Fabrice , Wagner Gerd
Published: December 2022

In our study, we aimed to explore the profile of the high-risk subgroup of suicide attempters that used a violent means compared to suicide attempters that chose a non-violent suicide means. Therefore, we recruited a sample of inpatients with recent suicide attempts in three psychiatric hospitals in Thuringia, Germany. We used a structured clinical interview to assess the psychiatric diagnoses, sociodemographic data, and characteristics of the suicide attempt. Furthermore, we used several validated clinical questionnaires to measure suicidal ideations, suicide intent, depression severity, hopelessness, impulsivity, aggression, anger expression, and childhood trauma. We compared 41 individuals using violent means to 59 using non-violent means with univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. We found significantly (corrected for multiple comparisons) higher levels of impulsivity-related sensation-seeking in violent suicide attempters in univariate and multivariate analyses, and additionally in anger expression directed inward at an uncorrected statistical threshold. Besides that, there were no significant differences between the two groups. We assume that underlying neurocognitive mechanisms, such as impaired decision-making processes and/or differences in risk/loss assessment, could explain the higher levels of questionnaire-based sensation-seeking in subjects who use violent suicide means. Further research is needed, including neuroimaging and biochemical techniques, to gain more insight into the mechanisms underlying the choice of a suicidal means.
Drug-Drug Interactions among Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19 in Greece
Authors: Spanakis Marios , Ioannou Petros , Tzalis Sotiris , Papakosta Vasiliki , Patelarou Evridiki , Tzanakis Nikos , Patelarou Athina , Kofteridis Diamantis P.
Published: December 2022

The modulation of the pharmacological action of drugs due to drug-drug interactions (DDIs) is a critical issue in healthcare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the clinical significance of potential DDIs in patients admitted to the University Hospital of Heraklion in Greece with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Cardiovascular disorders (58.4%) and diabetes (types I and II) (29.6%) were the most common comorbidities. A high occurrence of DDIs was observed, and clinically significant DDIs that may hamper response to treatment represented 40.3% of cases on admission, 21% during hospitalization, and 40.7% upon discharge. Polypharmacy and comorbidities were associated with a higher prevalence of DDIs in a statistically significant way (p < 0.05, 95% CI). Clinically significant DDIs and increased C-reactive protein values upon admission were associated with prolonged hospitalization. The results reveal that patients admitted due to COVID-19 in Greece often have an additional burden of DDIs that healthcare teams should approach and resolve.
An Econometric Analysis of Sea Surface Temperatures, Sea Ice Concentrations and Ocean Surface Current Velocities
Authors: Bhargava Alok , Echenique Juan A.
Published: December 2022

This paper analyzed quarterly longitudinal data for 64,800 1 × 1 degree grids during 2000–2019 on sea surface temperatures, sea ice concentrations, and ocean surface current zonal and meridional velocities in the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The methodological framework addressed the processing of remote sensing signals, interdependence between sea surface temperatures and sea ice concentrations, and combining zonal and meridional velocities as the eddy kinetic energy. Dynamic and static random effects models were estimated by maximum likelihood and stepwise methods, respectively, taking into account the unobserved heterogeneity across grids. The main findings were that quarterly sea surface temperatures increased steadily in the Northern hemisphere, whereas cyclical patterns were apparent in Southern hemisphere; sea ice concentrations declined in both hemispheres. Second, sea surface temperatures were estimated with large negative coefficients in the models for sea ice concentrations for the hemispheres; previous sea ice concentrations were negatively associated with sea surface temperatures, indicating feedback loops. Third, sea surface temperatures were positively and significantly associated with eddy kinetic energy in Northern hemisphere. Overall, the results indicated the importance of reducing sea surface temperatures via reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the dumping of pollutants into oceans for maintaining sea ice concentrations and enhancing global sustainability.
Fault-Tree-Analysis-Based Health Monitoring for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Byun Sungil , Papaelias Mayorkinos , Márquez Fausto Pedro García , Lee Dongik
Published: December 2022

Undersea terrain and resource exploration missions using autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) require a great deal of time. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the state of the AUV in real time during the mission. In this paper, we propose an online health-monitoring method for AUVs using fault-tree analysis. The entire system is divided into four subsystems. Fault trees of each subsystem are designed based on the information of performance and reliability. Using the given subsystem fault trees, the health status of the entire system is evaluated by considering the performance, reliability, fault status, and weight factors of the parts. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through simulations with various scenarios.
The Impact of Women’s Empowerment on Their Entrepreneurship Intention in the Saudi Food Industry
Authors: Hassan Osama H. M. , Sobaih Abu Elnasr E. , Elshaer Ibrahim A.
Published: December 2022

This study takes a novel attempt to examine the impact of women’s empowerment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has been prioritized recently by the country’s leadership as a part of the Saudi Vision 2030, on women’s intention towards entrepreneurship. A pre-examined survey was directed to the Saudi women working in KSA’s food and beverage businesses. The structural equation modeling results showed a significant positive impact of psychosocial, economic, and political empowerment on Saudi women’s intention to engage in entrepreneurship activities. However, the results confirmed a significant negative influence of social empowerment on entrepreneurship intentions. This is because Saudi women did not perceive the proper social empowerment by their community, which negatively influenced their entrepreneurship intention. Hence, interventions by decision-makers are crucial to adopt a media campaign regarding gender equality and the vital contribution of women in the labor market and entrepreneurship. Other implications were discussed for scholars and decision-makers.
Analyzing Safe Haven, Hedging and Diversifier Characteristics of Heterogeneous Cryptocurrencies against G7 and BRICS Market Indexes
Authors: Gadi Manoel Fernando Alonso , Sicilia Miguel-Angel
Published: December 2022

Cryptocurrency markets have experienced large growth in recent years, with an increase in the number and diversity of traded assets. Previous work has addressed the economic properties of Bitcoin with regards to its hedging or diversification properties. However, the surge of many alternatives, applications, and decentralized finance services on a variety of blockchain networks requires a re-examination of those properties, including indexes from outside the big economies and the inclusion of a variety of cryptocurrencies. In this paper, we report the results of studying the most representative cryptocurrency of each consensus mechanism by trading volume, forming a list of twenty-four cryptocurrencies from the 1st of January 2018 to the 30th of September 2022. Using the Baur and McDermott model, we examine hedge, safe haven, and diversifier properties of all assets for all G7 country’s major indexes as well as all BRICS major indexes breaking it down by two attributes: kind of blockchain technology and pre/during COVID health crisis. Results show that both attributes play an important role in the hedge, safe haven, and diversifier properties associated with the asset. Concretely: stablecoins appear to be the only ones to maintain hedge property in most analyzed markets pre- and during-COVID; Bitcoin investment properties shifted after the COVID crisis started; China and Russia stopped being correlated with the cryptocurrency after the COVID crisis hit.
Who Is Restoring Forest Landscapes? Analysis of Citizen Participation within the De-Eucalyptising Brigades in Galicia, Spain
Authors: Cidrás Diego
Published: December 2022

The expansion of eucalypt plantations constitutes a growing source of landscape transformation in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. In this context, forest planning has failed to design forestry policies that consider the demands of the population as a whole. Among other consequences, in 2018 a group of activists founded a volunteer programme aiming at collective action against the expansion of degraded forests. By 2022, over 100 actions had been performed, mostly involving eradications of eucalypt sprouts, and 1000 activists took part in such programmes. Through participatory action research, this work explores the nature and functioning of this programme and discusses in particular the socialisation of landscape management. The results reveal a slight prevalence of an urban public participating in rural areas, so that activism against eucalyptus expansion conforms a centripetal force in the creation of new networks of actors that transcend the rural–urban dichotomy. It is concluded that the studied case can be taken as a model for public institutions aiming to reinforce citizen participation in forest landscape plans.