bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pancreatic Cancer Incidence Trends by Race, Ethnicity, Age and Sex in the United States: A Population-Based Study, 2000–2018
Authors: Samaan Jamil S. , Abboud Yazan , Oh Janice , Jiang Yi , Watson Rabindra , Park Kenneth , Liu Quin , Atkins Katelyn , Hendifar Andrew , Gong Jun , Osipov Arsen , Li Debiao , Nissen Nicholas N. , Pandol Stephen J. , Lo Simon K. , Gaddam Srinivas
Published: January 2023

Background and aims: Pancreatic cancer (PC) incidence is increasing at a greater rate in young women compared to young men. We performed a race- and ethnicity-specific evaluation of incidence trends in subgroups stratified by age and sex to investigate the association of race and ethnicity with these trends. Methods: Age-adjusted PC incidence rates (IR) from the years 2000 to 2018 were obtained from the SEER 21 database. Non-Hispanic White (White), Non-Hispanic Black (Black) and Hispanic patients were included. Age categories included older (ages ≥ 55) and younger (ages < 55) adults. Time-trends were described as annual percentage change (APC) and average APC (AAPC). Results: Younger White [AAPC difference = 0.73, p = 0.01)], Black [AAPC difference = 1.96, p = 0.01)] and Hispanic [AAPC difference = 1.55, p = 0.011)] women experienced a greater rate of increase in IR compared to their counterpart men. Younger Hispanic women experienced a greater rate of increase in IR compared to younger Black women [AAPC difference = −1.28, p = 0.028)] and younger White women [AAPC difference = −1.35, p = 0.011)]. Conclusion: Younger women of all races and ethnicities experienced a greater rate of increase in PC IR compared to their counterpart men; however, younger Hispanic and Black women experienced a disproportionately greater increase. Hispanic women experienced a greater rate of increase in IR compared to younger Black and White women.
Risk of Cancer in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Keys for Patient Management
Authors: Laredo Viviana , García-Mateo Sandra , Martínez-Domínguez Samuel J. , López de la Cruz Julia , Gargallo-Puyuelo Carla J. , Gomollón Fernando
Published: January 2023

Chronic inflammation in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) leads to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, small bowel cancer, intestinal lymphoma and cholangiocarcinoma. However, treatments for IBD have also been associated with an increased risk of neoplasms. Patients receiving Thiopurines (TPs) have an increased risk of hematologic malignancies, non-melanoma skin cancer, urinary tract neoplasms and cervical cancer. Anti-TNFs have been associated with a higher risk of neoplasms, mainly lymphomas and melanomas; however, the data are controversial, and some recent studies do not confirm the association. Nevertheless, other biologic agents, such as ustekinumab and vedolizumab, have not shown an increased risk of any neoplasm to date. The risk of malignancies with tofacitinib exists, but its magnitude and relationship with previous treatment with TPs is not defined, so more studies from daily clinical practice are needed. Although biologic therapy seems to be safe for patients with current cancer or a prior history of cancer, as has been demonstrated in other chronic inflammatory conditions, prospective studies in this specific population are needed. Until that time, it is crucial to manage such conditions via the combined clinical expertise of the gastroenterologist and oncologist.
Ultrastructural Analysis of Cancer Cells Treated with the Radiopharmaceutical Radium Dichloride ([223Ra]RaCl2): Understanding the Effect on Cell Structure
Authors: Diniz Filho Joel Félix Silva , de Barros Aline Oliveira da Silva , Pijeira Martha Sahylí Ortega , Ricci-Junior Eduardo , Midlej Victor , Baroni Mariana Pelissari Monteiro Aguiar , dos Santos Clenilton Costa , Alencar Luciana Magalhães Rebelo , Santos-Oliveira Ralph
Published: January 2023

The use of alpha-particle (α-particle) radionuclides, especially [223Ra]RaCl2 (radium dichloride), for targeted alpha therapy is steadily increasing. Despite the positive clinical outcomes of this therapy, very little data are available about the effect on the ultrastructure of cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nanomechanical and ultrastructure effect of [223Ra] RaCl2 on cancer cells. To analyze the effect of [223Ra]RaCl2 on tumor cells, human breast cancer cells (lineage MDA-MB-231) were cultured and treated with the radiopharmaceutical at doses of 2 µCi and 0.9 µCi. The effect was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) combined with Raman spectroscopy. The results showed massive destruction of the cell membrane but preservation of the nucleus membrane. No evidence of DNA alteration was observed. The data demonstrated the formation of lysosomes and phagosomes. These findings help elucidate the main mechanism involved in cell death during α-particle therapy.
The LIM Domain Protein BmFHL2 Inhibits Egg Production in Female Silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Yuan Qian , Sun Xiaoning , Lu Riming , Qu Zhigang , Ding Xueyan , Dai Taiming , Qiu Jianfeng , Tan Yumei , Zhu Ruihong , Pan Zhonghua , Xu Shiqing , Sima Yanghu
Published: January 2023

The female Bombyx mori accumulates a large amount of egg proteins, mainly Vg and 30K, during egg formation to provide nutrition for embryo development. The synthesis and transport of Vg have been extensively studied, particularly the regulation of Vg transcription induced by 20E; however, the mechanism of 30K protein synthesis is poorly studied. As a model organism of the order Lepidoptera, B. mori has high reproduction potential. In the present study, we found that the FHL2 homologous gene (BmFhl2) in B. mori is involved in inhibiting female egg formation by influencing the synthesis of 30K protein. Interference of BmFhl2 expression in silkworm females increased 30K protein synthesis, accelerated ovarian development, and significantly increased the number of eggs produced and laid; however, the 20E pathway was inhibited. The transcription levels of Vg and 30Kc19 were significantly downregulated following BmFhl2 overexpression in the silkworm ovarian cell line BmN. The Co-IP assay showed that the potential binding protein of BmFHL2 included three types of 30K proteins (30Kc12, 30Kc19, and 30Kc21). These results indicate that BmFHL2 participates in egg formation by affecting 30K protein in female B. mori.
Immunomodulation of Natural Killer Cell Function by Ribavirin Involves TYK-2 Activation and Subsequent Increased IFN-γ Secretion in the Context of In Vitro Hepatitis E Virus Infection
Authors: Kupke Paul , Adenugba Akinbami , Schemmerer Mathias , Bitterer Florian , Schlitt Hans J. , Geissler Edward K. , Wenzel Jürgen J. , Werner Jens M.
Published: January 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis globally. Chronic and fulminant courses are observed especially in immunocompromised transplant recipients since administration of ribavirin (RBV) does not always lead to a sustained virologic response. By in vitro stimulation of NK cells through hepatoma cell lines inoculated with a full-length HEV and treatment with RBV, we analyzed the viral replication and cell response to further elucidate the mechanism of action of RBV on immune cells, especially NK cells, in the context of HEV infection. Co-culture of HEV-infected hepatoma cells with PBMCs and treatment with RBV both resulted in a decrease in viral replication, which in combination showed an additive effect. An analysis of NK cell functions after stimulation revealed evidence of reduced cytotoxicity by decreased TRAIL and CD107a degranulation. Simultaneously, IFN-ɣ production was significantly increased through the IL-12R pathway. Although there was no direct effect on the IL-12R subunits, downstream events starting with TYK-2 and subsequently pSTAT4 were upregulated. In conclusion, we showed that RBV has an immunomodulatory effect on the IL-12R pathway of NK cells via TYK-2. This subsequently leads to an enhanced IFN-ɣ response and thus, to an additive antiviral effect in the context of an in vitro HEV infection.
“Safer Births Bundle of Care” Implementation and Perinatal Impact at 30 Hospitals in Tanzania—Halfway Evaluation
Authors: Ersdal Hege , Mdoe Paschal , Mduma Estomih , Moshiro Robert , Guga Godfrey , Kvaløy Jan Terje , Bundala Felix , Marwa Boniphace , Kamala Benjamin
Published: January 2023

Safer Births Bundle of Care (SBBC) consists of innovative clinical and training tools for improved labour care and newborn resuscitation, integrated with new strategies for continuous quality improvement. After implementation, we hypothesised a reduction in 24-h newborn deaths, fresh stillbirths, and maternal deaths by 50%, 20%, and 10%, respectively. This is a 3-year stepped-wedged cluster randomised implementation study, including 30 facilities within five regions in Tanzania. Data collectors at each facility enter labour and newborn care indicators, patient characteristics and outcomes. This halfway evaluation reports data from March 2021 through July 2022. In total, 138,357 deliveries were recorded; 67,690 pre- and 70,667 post-implementations of SBBC. There were steady trends of increased 24-h newborn and maternal survival in four regions after SBBC initiation. In the first region, with 13 months of implementation (n = 15,658 deliveries), an estimated additional 100 newborns and 20 women were saved. Reported fresh stillbirths seemed to fluctuate across time, and increased in three regions after the start of SBBC. Uptake of the bundle varied between regions. This SBBC halfway evaluation indicates steady reductions in 24-h newborn and maternal mortality, in line with our hypotheses, in four of five regions. Enhanced focus on uptake of the bundle and the quality improvement component is necessary to fully reach the SBBC impact potential as we move forward.
Open Pyeloplasty in Infants under 1 Year—Proven or Meaningless?
Authors: Vauth Franziska , Zöhrer Pirmin , Girtner Florian , Rösch Wolfgang H. , Hofmann Aybike
Published: January 2023

The use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to treat ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children has significantly increased. Nowadays, open pyeloplasty (OP) seems to lose importance. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of OP in infants < 1 year. Medical records of patients < 1 year with UPJO who had undergone retroperitoneal OP (January 2008–February 2022) at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. Included patients were operated on according to a modified Anderson–Hynes technique. All clinical, operative, and postoperative (1 month–5 years’ follow-up) data were collected. Additionally, a nonvalidated questionnaire was sent to the patients/parents. A total of 162 infants (124 boys) met the inclusion criteria. The median age at surgery was 3 months (range: 0–11 months). The median operation time was 106 min (range: 63–198 min). None of the patients had severe surgical complication (Clavien–Dindo > 3). The nonvalidated questionnaire showed a high impact of quality of life. Follow-up was in median 30.5 months (0–162 months). OP is still a reliable procedure with good long-term results especially in infants < 1 year of age, which can be performed in a variety of centers.
Study of Different Personalised Dietary Plans on Eating Behaviour, Body Image and Mood in Young Female Professional Handball Players: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Miralles-Amorós Laura , Vicente-Martínez Manuel , Martínez-Olcina María , Asencio-Mas Nuria , Gonzálvez-Alvarado Lucía , Peñaranda-Moraga Marcelo , Leyva-Vela Belén , Yáñez-Sepúlveda Rodrigo , Cortés-Roco Guillermo , Martínez-Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: January 2023

Low energy availability may precede or be caused by cognitive disturbances in professional athletes. Related psychological problems include disordered eating patterns, body shape preoccupation, depression or anxiety. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of different personalised dietary plans on psychological factors in young professional female handball players with low energy availability. This 12-week randomised clinical trial involved 21 female players aged 22 ± 4 years, 172.0 ± 5.4 cm and 68.4 ± 6.7 kg divided into three groups (FD: free diet; MD: Mediterranean diet; HAD: high antioxidant diet). Eating behaviour (Eating Attitude Test, EAT-26: diet, bulimia and oral control subscales), body image (Body Shape Questionnaire, BSQ) and mood state (Profile of Mode State, POMS: tension, vigour, anger, depression, fatigue) were assessed. All participants showed low energy availability (<30 kcal/lean mass per day). The different plans showed no significant differences between them but significant differences over time within groups for the variables: body image, Tension, Vigour and Depression (p < 0.05). Eating behaviour improved slightly but did not show statistically significant changes. Following an adequate nutritional planning for athletes seems to improve the mood and body perception of young female handball players. A longer intervention period is required to assess the differences between diets and improvement of other parameters.
Effects of Welfare Reform on Positive Health and Social Behaviors of Adolescents
Authors: Reichman Nancy E. , Corman Hope , Dave Dhaval , Kalil Ariel , Schwartz-Soicher Ofira
Published: January 2023

This paper explores a missing link in the literature on welfare reform in the U.S.—the effects on positive health and social behaviors of adolescents, who represent the next generation of potential welfare recipients. Previous research on welfare reform and adolescents has focused almost exclusively on negative behaviors and found that welfare reform led to decreases in high school dropout and teenage fertility among girls, but increases in delinquent behaviors and substance use, particularly among boys. Using nationally representative data on American high school students in 1991–2006 and a quasi-experimental research design, we estimated the effects of welfare reform implementation on eating breakfast, regular fruit/vegetable consumption, regular exercise, adequate sleep, time spent on homework, completion of assignments, participation in community activities or volunteering, participation in school athletics, participation in other school activities, and religious service attendance. We found no robust evidence that welfare reform affected any of these adolescent behaviors. In concert with the past research on welfare reform in the U.S. and adolescents, the findings do not support the implicit assumption underlying welfare reform that strong maternal work incentives would increase responsible behavior in the next generation and suggest that welfare reform had overall adverse effects on boys, who have been falling behind girls in terms of high school completion for decades.
Bi-Phase NiCo2S4-NiS2/CFP Nanocomposites as a Highly Active Catalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Jintang , Xia Yongji , Luo Xianrui , Mao Tianle , Wang Zhenjia , Hong Zheyu , Yue Guanghui
Published: January 2023

Pursuing oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts with high activity and stability is attracting many researchers. Here, we first designed and synthesized a biphasic three-dimensional structured catalyst of nickel–cobalt sulfide NiCo2S4-NiS2/CFP, which is a nickel–cobalt sulfide composite decorated on carbon fiber paper (CFP) by a one-step hydrothermal method. It exhibited an overpotential of about 165 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 81.54 mV dec−1. Furthermore, the long-term stability of the NiCo2S4-NiS2/CFP nanocomposite was 90.0% of the initial current density even after 12 h. The excellent catalytic performance of the NiCo2S4-NiS2/CFP nanocomposite can be attributed to several aspects. Firstly, the petal-like morphology of the NiCo2S4-NiS2 nanocomposite exposes more active sites. Secondly, the stability of the composite catalyst is significantly enhanced by its firm anchoring on the CFP. Thirdly, the catalytic performance was significantly improved by the addition of mixed valence of Ni or Co on the {111} plane of spinel NiCo2S4. Finally, the three-dimensional CFP substrate provides an efficient pathway and a stable integrated structure for the transmission of electrons and ions. Our one-step hydrothermal synthesis method provides a simple and economical way to obtain high-performance and robust OER catalysts.
‘Safe Assets’ during COVID-19: A Portfolio Management Perspective
Authors: Chevallier Julien
Published: January 2023

The pandemic crisis of COVID-19 hit the financial markets like a shockwave on 16 March 2020. This paper attempts to capture which ‘safe assets’ asset managers could have fled during the first wave of the pandemic. From an investment manager’s perspective, candidate assets are stocks, bonds, exchange rates, commodities, gold, and (gold-backed) cryptocurrencies. Empirical tests of the ‘Safe-Haven’ hypothesis are conducted, upon which the selection of assets is performed. The methodological framework hinges on the Global Minimum Variance Portfolio with Monte Carlo simulations, and the routine is performed under Python. Other optimization techniques, such as risk parity and equal weighting, are added for robustness checks. The benchmark portfolio hits a yearly profitability of 7.2% during such a stressful event (with 3.6% downside risk). The profitability can be enhanced to 8.4% (even 14.4% during sub-periods) with a careful selection of ‘Safe assets’. Besides short- to long-term U.S. bonds, we document that investors’ exposure to Chinese, Argentinian, and Mexican stocks during COVID-19 could have been complemented with Swiss and Japanese currencies, grains, physical gold mine ETFs, or gold-backed tokens for defensive purposes.
Ultrasound Renal Score to Predict the Renal Disease Prognosis in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease: An Investigative Study
Authors: Ham Young Rok , Lee Eu Jin , Kim Hae Ri , Jeon Jae Wan , Na Ki Ryang , Lee Kang Wook , Choi Dae Eun
Published: January 2023

Renal disease associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Renal ultrasonography is an imaging examination required in the work-up of renal disease. This study aimed to identify the differences in renal ultrasonographic findings between patients with and without DM, and to evaluate the relationship between renal ultrasound findings and renal prognosis in patients with DM. A total of 252 patients who underwent renal ultrasonography at Chungnam National University Hospital were included. Kidney disease progression was defined as a ≥10% decline in the annual estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which, in this paper, is referred to as ΔeGFR/year, or the initiation of renal replacement therapy after follow-up. The renal scoring system was evaluated by summing up the following items: the value of renal parenchymal echogenicity (0: normal; 1: mildly increased; and 2: increased) and the shape of the cortical margin (0: normal and 1: irregular; right kidney length/height (RH—0 or 1), mean cortical thickness/renal length/height (CKH—0 or 1), and cortical thickness/parenchymal thickness (CK/PK—0 or 1) based on the median: 0—above median, and 1—below median). Patients with DM had thicker renal PKH than those without, despite having lower eGFRs (0.91 ± 0.15, 0.86 ± 0.14, p = 0.006). In the progression group, the renal scores were significantly higher than those from the non-progression group. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the higher renal scores, presence of DM, and younger age were independently predicted for renal disease progression after adjusting for confounding variables, such as the presence of hypertension, serum hemoglobin and albumin levels, and UPCR. In conclusion, patients with high renal scores were significantly associated with renal disease progression. Our results suggest that renal ultrasonography at the time of diagnosis provides useful prognostic information in patients with kidney disease.
An X-Band State Adjustable Low Noise Amplifier Using Current Reuse Technique
Authors: Wang Yujun , Wan Lixi , Wang Zhengli , Zhang Haitao , Song Yunqian , Zhang Xiaobin , Jin Zhi
Published: January 2023

This article presents an on-chip state-adjustable 8 GHz~12 GHz low-noise amplifier (LNA). It has two characteristics. First, an improved current reuse topology is proposed. By connecting a small capacitor in parallel with the drain of the first-stage transistor, the bandwidth is expanded and the in-band flatness is improved. Second, an innovative adaptive bias circuit is designed to cope with the influence of temperature and process on the performance of the amplifier, and a design method for on-chip adjustment of the chip state is proposed for the first time. As a result of these technologies, the chip area is 1.1 mm × 0.8 mm, the chip provides 24.4 dB nominal gain with merely 0.75 dB noise at 10 GHz, and yields 14.5 dBm output power at 1 dB compression point (OP1dB) when biased at 30 mA quiescent current, meanwhile, gain, OP1dB, and quiescent current can be adjusted on-chip. This design improves the comprehensive performance of X-band LNA and provides more flexibility for system engineers in application. The chip is fabricated using Win Semiconductors’ 0.15 um InGaAs pHEMT E-mode process.
Monitoring the Aroma Compound Profiles in the Microbial Fermentation of Seaweeds and Their Effects on Sensory Perception
Authors: Hung Yueh-Hao Ronny , Peng Chien-Yu , Huang Mei-Ying , Lu Wen-Jung , Lin Hsuan-Ju , Hsu Chih-Ling , Fang Ming-Chih , Lin Hong-Ting Victor
Published: January 2023

Seaweeds have a variety of biological activities, and their aromatic characteristics could play an important role in consumer acceptance. Here, changes in aroma compounds were monitored during microbial fermentation, and those most likely to affect sensory perception were identified. Ulva sp. and Laminaria sp. were fermented and generally recognized as safe microorganisms, and the profile of volatile compounds in the fermented seaweeds was investigated using headspace solid-phase microextraction with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Volatile compounds, including ketones, aldehydes, alcohols, and acids, were identified during seaweed fermentation. Compared with lactic acid bacteria fermentation, Bacillus subtilis fermentation could enhance the total ketone amount in seaweeds. Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation could also enhance the alcohol content in seaweeds. Principal component analysis of volatile compounds revealed that fermenting seaweeds with B. subtilis or S. cerevisiae could reduce aldehyde contents and boost ketone and alcohol contents, respectively, as expected. The odor of the fermented seaweeds was described by using GC–olfactometry, and B. subtilis and S. cerevisiae fermentations could enhance pleasant odors and reduce unpleasant odors. These results can support the capability of fermentation to improve the aromatic profile of seaweeds.
Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas) Powder as a Functional Ingredient for the Formulation of Bread Loaves: Physical Properties, Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Composition, and Sensory Attributes
Authors: Šimora Veronika , Ďúranová Hana , Brindza Ján , Moncada Marvin , Ivanišová Eva , Joanidis Patrícia , Straka Dušan , Gabríny Lucia , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: January 2023

In the current study, Cornelian cherry powder (CCP, Cornus mas) was investigated as a functional ingredient for bread production. Experimental bread loaves were prepared using five levels of CCP (0, 1, 2, 5, and 10% w/w) to replace wheat flour in bread formulation. The final products were analyzed regarding their proximate composition, content of selected biologically active substances, antioxidant activity (AA), volume, and sensory attributes. Increasing the incorporation of CCP led to significantly (p < 0.05) higher concentrations of carbohydrate, ash, energetic value, total polyphenols, phenolic acids and AA, and reduced fat and protein contents (p < 0.05). Moreover, up to 5% addition of CCP positively affected the volume (642.63 ± 7.24 mL) and specific volume (2.83 ± 0.02 cm3/g) of bread loaves, which were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to the control (no addition of CCP; 576.99 ± 2.97 mL; 2.55 ± 0.002 cm3/g). The sensory attributes chewiness, crumb springiness, bitterness, and sourness had lower scores (p < 0.05) in bread formulated with 10% CCP compared to the control. Overall, results show that the bread loaves produced with up to 5% CCP addition were considered the preferred formulation among the experimental samples tested, taking into consideration their composition, bioactive content, sensory, and physical properties.
Effect of Flaxseed Oil Cake Extract on the Microbial Quality, Texture and Shelf Life of Gluten-Free Bread
Authors: Łopusiewicz Łukasz , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Baranowska Hanna Maria , Masewicz Łukasz , Amarowicz Ryszard , Krupa-Kozak Urszula
Published: January 2023

Extending the shelf life of gluten-free bread (GFB) is a challenge. Mainly due to the ingredients used and their characteristics, GFB has numerous drawbacks such as unsatisfactory texture and rapid staling beyond a low nutritional value. In the present study, flaxseed oil cake extract (FOCE) was used to replace water (25–100%) in GFB formulations in order to test FOCE’s potential to reduce GFB staling and extend microbial stability. Texture (TPA test), water activity (LF NMR), acidity (pH measurements) and microbiological quality of GFBs were tested. Moreover, the content of a lignan with broad health-promoting potential, secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), in GFB with FOCE was analyzed. The results showed that the use of FOCE enriched experimental GFB in valuable SDG (217–525 µg/100 g DM) while not causing adverse microbiological changes. A moderate level (25–50%) of FOCE did not change the main texture parameters of GFB stored for 72 h, the quality of which was comparable to control bread without FOCE. Meanwhile, higher proportions of FOCE (75–100% of water replacement) shortened GFB shelf life as determined by water activity and texture profile, suggesting that GFB with FOCE should be consumed fresh. To summarize, FOCE at moderate levels can add value to GFBs without causing a drop in quality, while still fitting in with the idea of zero waste and the circular economy.
Capsular Exopolysaccharides from Two Streptococcus thermophilus Strains Differ in Their Moisture Sorption Behavior
Authors: Nachtigall Carsten , Surber Georg , Wefers Daniel , Vogel Cordula , Rohm Harald , Jaros Doris
Published: January 2023

Streptococcus thermophilus is a species frequently used in the manufacture of fermented milk. Apart from acid production, some strains additionally synthesize exopolysaccharides (EPS) which contribute to texture improvement and syneresis reduction, both being attributable to the EPS’s high water binding capacity. There are two different types of EPS that may be produced, namely free exopolysaccharides (fEPS) which are secreted into the medium, and capsular EPS (cEPS) which remain attached to the bacterial cell wall. This study aims to analyze their individual contribution to techno-functional properties of fermented milk by determining the moisture sorption behavior of isolated fEPS and cell-attached cEPS from two S. thermophilus strains separately: ST-1G, a producer of non-ropy fEPS and cEPS, and ST-2E, a producer of ropy fEPS and cEPS. Differences in moisture load and sorption kinetics, determined for the first time for microbial EPS, were related to structural and macromolecular properties. The observed data are discussed by using previously published data on the physical properties of stirred fermented milk produced with these two strains. ST-1G EPS showed a higher cEPS fraction, a higher moisture load and slower moisture desorption than EPS produced by ST-2E, thus contributing to lower syneresis in fermented milk. For ST-2E, higher gel viscosity was related to a higher intrinsic viscosity and molecular mass of the ropy fEPS. Both strains produced complex EPS or EPS mixtures with clearly different molecular structures.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Management of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Primary Care: Perspective of Application in France and Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Frèche Bernard , Salvan Julie , Roch Marie Caroline , Guerin Antoine , Poupin Elodie , Pichon Maxime , Burucoa Christophe
Published: January 2023

Background: Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection affects 30% to 40% of people in industrialized countries. Aim: This study aimed to synthesize knowledge on the diagnostic and therapeutic management of Hp infection in general practice in people under 40 years of age. Method: A narrative review of the literature with an inductive content analysis of the articles was performed. Results: The extracted data (22 articles out of 106 included after screening of 965 articles) determined three areas of analysis: indications for screening, methods of screening and diagnosis by non-invasive tests, and treatment modalities. Discussion: Targeted, easily performed screening with noninvasive tests is recommended for patients younger than 45 years of age with no family history of gastric cancer and symptoms of dyspepsia without warning signs. Given their proximity to the general population and their coverage of the territory, general practitioners are ideally positioned. Treatment modalities are well-codified and feasible in primary care. Simplifying the recommendations available to them would optimize the identification of patients at risk and the management of Hp infection. Informing, educating, involving, supporting, and promoting the control of Hp infection in primary care will be future goals. Further research is needed in primary care to evaluate the impact of new procedures on Hp control.
Accelerating UN Sustainable Development Goals with AI-Driven Technologies: A Systematic Literature Review of Women’s Healthcare
Authors: Lau Pin Lean , Nandy Monomita , Chakraborty Sushmita
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we critically examine if the contributions of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare adequately represent the realm of women’s healthcare. This would be relevant for achieving and accelerating the gender equality and health sustainability goals (SDGs) defined by the United Nations. Following a systematic literature review (SLR), we examine if AI applications in health and biomedicine adequately represent women’s health in the larger scheme of healthcare provision. Our findings are divided into clusters based on thematic markers for women’s health that are commensurate with the hypotheses that AI-driven technologies in women’s health still remain underrepresented, but that emphasis on its future deployment can increase efficiency in informed health choices and be particularly accessible to women in small or underrepresented communities. Contemporaneously, these findings can assist and influence the shape of governmental policies, accessibility, and the regulatory environment in achieving the SDGs. On a larger scale, in the near future, we will extend the extant literature on applications of AI-driven technologies in health SDGs and set the agenda for future research.
Brief Training of Technical Bleeding Control Skills—A Pilot Study with Security Forces
Authors: Manteiga-Urbón Jose Luis , Fernández-Méndez Felipe , Otero-Agra Martín , Fernández-Méndez María , Santos-Folgar Myriam , Insa-Calderon Esther , Sobrido-Prieto María , Barcala-Furelos Roberto , Martínez-Isasi Santiago
Published: January 2023

Uncontrolled external bleeding is a common cause of preventable death, and due to the environment in which these events often occur, e.g., in hostile environments, the state security forces are usually the first responders, and in many cases, if they are injured their partners provide the initial assistance. The tourniquet is a fast, effective, and easy-to-learn intervention, although there is a knowledge gap concerning training techniques. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of a bleeding control training program on a high-fidelity mannequin in a simulated critical situation in a law enforcement training environment. A quasi-experimental study was carried out with 27 members of the state security forces. They underwent brief theoretical–practical training and were evaluated via a scenario involving a critically ill patient in a hostile environment. The results showed that no member of the state security forces completed all the tourniquet placement steps, 26 (96%) prepared the tourniquet correctly, 21 (77.8%) placed it on the leg, and all the participants adjusted the band to the thickness of the injured limb and secured the windlass to the triangular flange of the device. However, only 23 (85.2%) of the participants placed it effectively. The participants, who were members of the state security forces, were able to effectively resolve a critical situation with active bleeding in a simulation scenario with a high-fidelity mannequin after completing theoretical–practical training.
E-Bicycle as a Green and Physically Active Mode of Transport from the Aspect of Students: TPB and Financial Incentives
Authors: Djokic Nenad , Milicevic Nikola , Kalas Branimir , Djokic Ines , Mirovic Vera
Published: January 2023

The positive effects of e-bikes on physical activity, health, and the environment have been confirmed in many studies. Their choice, as well as of cycling in general, was previously considered from, among others, the socio-psychological aspect (often by use of the theory of planned behavior (TPB)) or the financial aspect (in the context of financial incentives). In addition, the question of physical activity can be especially relevant for the student population, since their level of physical activity usually declines. Starting from the previous framework, the aim of this research was to consider the intention to use e-bikes by the student population in the context of their attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and financial incentives. It is, according to the authors’ knowledge, the first research that combines all those variables when studying e-bikes. The research was conducted in 2022 on a convenience sample of 332 students from the University of Novi Sad (Republic of Serbia). The results show that the strongest predictor of the intention to use e-bikes can be attributed to financial incentives, followed by attitudes and subjective norms, while perceived behavioral control is not significant. Besides considerations in the context of previous research, additional recommendations for increasing e-bikes’ use were provided.
HIV-Exposed Uninfected Children: A Systematic Review on Psychological Well-Being and Association with School Performances in Africa
Authors: Mensi Marina , Ahishakiye Alain , Journeay Katharine , Baiocco Roberto , Betancourt Theresa Stichick , Paganotti Giacomo M.
Published: January 2023

There is a growing number of children affected by HIV in Africa. Research on HIV-exposed uninfected children (HEU) is also growing. This systematic review focuses on the psychological well-being of HEU and its association with school intervention, outcomes, and enrollment in the African context, which is where the rate of HIV reaches its highest levels. Research on public databases was conducted according to PRISMA standards. Only studies on HEU primary school children in Africa, both quantitative and qualitative, were included. Out of 1510 papers retrieved, 50 met the inclusion criteria. These studies demonstrate that HEU children are more likely to perform worse in school compared to their counterparts who were not exposed to HIV and to show poorer concentration in the classroom. Children with parents suffering from AIDS are worried for them and have to take household responsibility, resulting in school dropouts, juvenile work, and risky behaviors. Few interventions have been conducted in the school environment with some of them being successful; therefore, future research should involve schools to create an inclusive environment where HEU children could enhance their potential and improve their psychological health.
Liposomes for Tumor Targeted Therapy: A Review
Authors: Wang Shile , Chen Yanyu , Guo Jiancheng , Huang Qinqin
Published: January 2023

Liposomes, the most widely studied nano-drug carriers in drug delivery, are sphere-shaped vesicles consisting of one or more phospholipid bilayers. Compared with traditional drug delivery systems, liposomes exhibit prominent properties that include targeted delivery, high biocompatibility, biodegradability, easy functionalization, low toxicity, improvements in the sustained release of the drug it carries and improved therapeutic indices. In the wake of the rapid development of nanotechnology, the studies of liposome composition have become increasingly extensive. The molecular diversity of liposome composition, which includes long-circulating PEGylated liposomes, ligand-functionalized liposomes, stimuli-responsive liposomes, and advanced cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanocarriers, endows their drug delivery with unique physiological functions. This review describes the composition, types and preparation methods of liposomes, and discusses their targeting strategies in cancer therapy.
Factors That Control the Force Needed to Unfold a Membrane Protein in Silico Depend on the Mode of Denaturation
Authors: Faruk Nabil F. , Peng Xiangda , Sosnick Tobin R.
Published: January 2023

Single-molecule force spectroscopy methods, such as AFM and magnetic tweezers, have proved extremely beneficial in elucidating folding pathways for soluble and membrane proteins. To identify factors that determine the force rupture levels in force-induced membrane protein unfolding, we applied our near-atomic-level Upside molecular dynamics package to study the vertical and lateral pulling of bacteriorhodopsin (bR) and GlpG, respectively. With our algorithm, we were able to selectively alter the magnitudes of individual interaction terms and identify that, for vertical pulling, hydrogen bond strength had the strongest effect, whereas other non-bonded protein and membrane–protein interactions had only moderate influences, except for the extraction of the last helix where the membrane–protein interactions had a stronger influence. The up–down topology of the transmembrane helices caused helices to be pulled out as pairs. The rate-limiting rupture event often was the loss of H-bonds and the ejection of the first helix, which then propagated tension to the second helix, which rapidly exited the bilayer. The pulling of the charged linkers across the membrane had minimal influence, as did changing the bilayer thickness. For the lateral pulling of GlpG, the rate-limiting rupture corresponded to the separation of the helices within the membrane, with the H-bonds generally being broken only afterward. Beyond providing a detailed picture of the rupture events, our study emphasizes that the pulling mode greatly affects the factors that determine the forces needed to unfold a membrane protein.
p27Kip1 Deficiency Impairs Brown Adipose Tissue Function Favouring Fat Accumulation in Mice
Authors: Colon-Mesa Ignacio , Sainz Neira , Corrales Patricia , Collantes María , Kaldis Philipp , Martinez José Alfredo , Medina-Gómez Gema , Moreno-Aliaga María Jesús , Escoté Xavier
Published: January 2023

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of the whole-body deletion of p27 on the activity of brown adipose tissue and the susceptibility to develop obesity and glucose homeostasis disturbances in mice, especially when subjected to a high fat diet. p27 knockout (p27−/−) and wild type (WT) mice were fed a normal chow diet or a high fat diet (HFD) for 10-weeks. Body weight and composition were assessed. Insulin and glucose tolerance tests and indirect calorimetry assays were performed. Histological analysis of interscapular BAT (iBAT) was carried out, and expression of key genes/proteins involved in BAT function were characterized by qPCR and Western blot. iBAT activity was estimated by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) uptake with microPET. p27−/− mice were more prone to develop obesity and insulin resistance, exhibiting increased size of all fat depots. p27−/− mice displayed a higher respiratory exchange ratio. iBAT presented larger adipocytes in p27−/− HFD mice, accompanied by downregulation of both Glut1 and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in parallel with defective insulin signalling. Moreover, p27−/− HFD mice exhibited impaired response to cold exposure, characterized by a reduced iBAT 18FDG uptake and difficulty to maintain body temperature when exposed to cold compared to WT HFD mice, suggesting reduced thermogenic capacity. These data suggest that p27 could play a role in BAT activation and in the susceptibility to develop obesity and insulin resistance.
Effect of Hydrogel Substrate Components on the Stability of Tetracycline Hydrochloride and Swelling Activity against Model Skin Sebum
Authors: Kostrzębska Agnieszka , Pączek Karolina , Weselak Angelika , Musiał Witold
Published: January 2023

Due to its high instability and rapid degradation under adverse conditions, tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) can cause difficulties in the development of an effective but stable formulation for the topical treatment of acne. The aim of the following work was to propose a hydrogel formulation that would ensure the stability of the antibiotic contained in it. Additionally, an important property of the prepared formulations was the activity of the alcoholamines contained in them against the components of the model sebum. This feature may help effectively cleanse the hair follicles in the accumulated sebum layer. A series of formulations with varying proportions of anionic polymer and alcoholamine and containing different polymers have been developed. The stability of tetracycline hydrochloride contained in the hydrogels was evaluated for 28 days by HPLC analysis. Formulations containing a large excess of TRIS alcoholamine led to the rapid degradation of TC from an initial concentration of about 10 µg/mL to about 1 µg/mL after 28 days. At the same time, these formulations showed the highest activity against artificial sebum components. Thanks to appropriately selected proportions of the components, it was possible to develop a formulation that assured the stability of tetracycline for ca. one month, while maintaining formulation activity against the components of model sebum.
Secure Medical Blockchain Model
Authors: Farahat Ibrahim Shawky , Aladrousy Waleed , Elhoseny Mohamed , Elmougy Samir , Tolba Ahmed Elsaid
Published: January 2023

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) uses wireless networks to help patients to communicate with healthcare professionals. Therefore, IoMT devices suffer from a lack of security controls, just like many Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets. Thus, in this paper, we develop a system that uses a blockchain to secure medical data for each transaction between physicians and patients. This system also helps the physician to send the treatment to the blockchain. The blockchain creates a new block for the treatment and connects it with the previous block. This system also helps patients to access their treatment through the blockchain. SHA-256 is used to hash the new block using some information about the last block. We modify SHA-256 using the LZ4 algorithm to compress data. We also prevent a new block hash code starting with a specific number of zeros, which made the proposed system give a time complexity better than all related work. In this paper, we also develop a party-authentication technique that ensures the two parties of the transaction. The proposed system makes a transaction with O(n) time complexity. Thus, our system takes 1 s to create a block for the transaction. We also make a green computing algorithm comparison between our proposed system and the blockchain version. This comparison proves that our proposed method consumes less energy to create a new block. This paper proves that our method performs better than all previous blockchain versions.
Ultrasonographic Prediction of Placental Invasion in Placenta Previa by Placenta Accreta Index
Authors: Hasegawa Keita , Ikenoue Satoru , Tanaka Yuya , Oishi Maki , Endo Toyohide , Sato Yu , Ishii Ryota , Kasuga Yoshifumi , Ochiai Daigo , Tanaka Mamoru
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of the placenta accreta index (PAI) for predicting placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) in women with placenta previa. We analyzed 33 pregnancies with placenta previa at Keio University Hospital. The PAI was assessed in the early third trimester, and PAS was diagnosed histologically or clinically defined as retained placenta after manual removal attempts. The PAI and incidence of PAS were analyzed. Ten women (30%) were diagnosed with PAS and had higher volumes of perioperative bleeding (p = 0.016), higher rate of requiring uterine artery embolization (p = 0.005), and peripartum hysterectomy (p = 0.0002) than women without PAS. A PAI > 2 was the most useful cut-off point for predicting PAS and was more sensitive than prediction values using traditional evaluation (history of cesarean section and placental location). Post-hoc analysis revealed a higher rate of previous history of cesarean delivery (30% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.038), severe placental lacunae (≥grade2) (70% vs. 8.7%, p = 0.0003), thin myometrial thickness (90% vs. 22%, p = 0.0003), anterior placenta (100% vs. 30%, p = 0.0002), and presence of bridging vessels (30% vs. 0%, p = 0.0059) in PAS women. PAI could help predict the outcomes of women with placenta previa with and without a history of cesarean delivery to reduce PAS-induced perinatal complications.
Impact of Gestational Diabetes and Hypertension Disorders of Pregnancy on Neonatal Outcomes in Twin Pregnancies Based on Chorionicity
Authors: Liu Yi , Li Dayan , Wang Yang , Qi Hongbo , Wen Li
Published: January 2023

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the co-existence of gestational diabetes (GDM) and hypertension disorders of pregnancy (HDP) on neonatal outcomes in twin pregnancies based on chorionicity. Methods: A retrospective study of 1398 women with twin pregnancies was performed between January 2016 and December 2021. The effects of GDM and HDP on neonatal outcomes were assessed by logistic regression models. An additional stratified analysis was conducted to estimate the effects based on chorionicity (monochorionic (MC) and dichorionic (DC)). Results: The incidence of the co-existence of GDM and HDP was 3.8%. The presence of GDM increased the likelihood of HDP only in women with MC twin pregnancies (OR, 2.13; 95% CI 1.08–4.19). After adjustments, co-existence of GDM and HDP was positively associated with gestational age (β, 1.06; 95% CI 0.43–1.69) and birthweight (β, 174.90; 95% CI 8.91–340.89) in MC twin pregnancies, while no associations were found between co-existence of GDM and HDP and neonatal outcomes in DC twin pregnancies. However, HDP was negatively associated with birthweight (β, −156.97; 95% CI (−257.92, −56.02)) and positively associated with small-for-gestational-age (SGA) (OR, 2.03; 95% CI 1.02–4.03) and discordant twins (OR, 2.83; 95% CI 1.78–4.48) in DC twin pregnant women without GDM. Conclusions: Our results suggested that GDM leads to an increased risk of HDP only in MC twin pregnancies, but GDM seemed to attenuate the adverse effects of HDP on perinatal outcomes in both MC and DC twin pregnancies. Further investigation is needed to explain these intriguing findings.