bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Chest Physiotherapy in Preterm Infants with Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Igual Blasco Ana , Piñero Peñalver Jessica , Fernández-Rego Francisco Javier , Torró-Ferrero Galaad , Pérez-López Julio
Published: April 2023

Preterm birth carries a higher risk of respiratory problems. The objectives of the study are to summarize the evidence on the effect of chest physiotherapy in the treatment of respiratory difficulties in preterm infants, and to determine the most appropriate technique and whether they are safe. Searches were made in PubMed, WOS, Scopus, Cochrane Library, SciELO, LILACS, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PsycArticle and VHL until 30 April 2022. Eligibility criteria were study type, full text, language, and treatment type. No publication date restrictions were applied. The MINCIR Therapy and PEDro scales were used to measure the methodological quality, and the Cochrane risk of bias and Newcastle Ottawa quality assessment Scale to measure the risk of bias. We analysed 10 studies with 522 participants. The most common interventions were conventional chest physiotherapy and stimulation of the chest zone according to Vojta. Lung compression and increased expiratory flow were also used. Heterogeneities were observed regarding the duration of the interventions and the number of participants. The methodological quality of some articles was not adequate. All techniques were shown to be safe. Benefits were described after conventional chest physiotherapy, Vojta’s reflex rolling, and lung compression interventions. Improvements after Vojta’s reflex rolling are highlighted in the comparative studies.
The Use of Cardioprotective Devices and Strategies in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Procedures and Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Abdul-Rahman Toufik , Lizano-Jubert Ileana , Garg Neil , Tejerina-Marion Emilio , Awais Bukhari Syed Muhammad , Luisa Ek Ana , Wireko Andrew Awuah , Mares Adriana C. , Sikora Vladyslav , Gupta Rahul
Published: April 2023

In the United States, about one million people are seen to visit the operating theater for cardiac surgery annually. However, nearly half of these visits result in complications such as renal, neurological, and cardiac injury of varying degrees. Historically, many mechanisms and approaches have been explored in attempts to reduce injuries associated with cardiac surgery and percutaneous procedures. Devices such as cardioplegia, mechanical circulatory support, and other methods have shown promising results in managing and preventing life-threatening cardiac-surgery-related outcomes such as heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Comparably, cardioprotective devices such as TandemHeart, Impella family devices, and venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) have also been proven to show significant cardioprotection through mechanical support. However, their use as interventional agents in the prevention of hemodynamic changes due to cardiac surgery or percutaneous interventions has been correlated with adverse effects. This can lead to a rebound increased risk of mortality in high-risk patients who undergo cardiac surgery. Further research is necessary to delineate and stratify patients into appropriate cardioprotective device groups. Furthermore, the use of one device over another in terms of efficacy remains controversial and further research is necessary to assess device potential in different settings. Clinical research is also needed regarding novel strategies and targets, such as transcutaneous vagus stimulation and supersaturated oxygen therapy, aimed at reducing mortality among high-risk cardiac surgery patients. This review explores the recent advances regarding the use of cardioprotective devices in patients undergoing percutaneous procedures and cardiac surgery.
Long-Term Impact of COVID-19 on Heart Rate Variability: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Suh Hyo-Weon , Kwon Chan-Young , Lee Boram
Published: April 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) sequelae (or long COVID) has become a clinically significant concern. Several studies have reported the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) parameters and COVID-19. This review investigates the long-term association between COVID-19 and HRV parameters. Four electronic databases were searched up to 29 July 2022. We included observational studies comparing HRV parameters (measurement durations: 1 min or more) in participants with and without a history of COVID-19. We used assessment tools developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute group to evaluate the methodological quality of included studies. Eleven cross-sectional studies compared HRV parameters in individuals who recovered from acute COVID-19 infection to controls (n = 2197). Most studies reported standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN) and root mean square of the successive differences. The methodological quality of the included studies was not optimal. The included studies generally found decreased SDNN and parasympathetic activity in post-COVID-19 individuals. Compared to controls, decreases in SDNN were observed in individuals who recovered from COVID-19 or had long COVID. Most of the included studies emphasized parasympathetic inhibition in post-COVID-19 conditions. Due to the methodological limitations of measuring HRV parameters, the findings should be further validated by robust prospective longitudinal studies.
Psychometric Properties of the Moral Disengagement through Technologies Questionnaire (MDTech-Q) in a Sample of Chilean University Students
Authors: Polanco-Levicán Karina , Salvo-Garrido Sonia
Published: April 2023

In the virtual environment, hostile and aggressive comments that could negatively affect university students who often use different digital platforms are frequently observed, more than other age groups who have little or no supervision. In this sense, moral disengagement (MD) has been linked to different negative behaviors that manifest in physical interactions and which currently take place on the Internet, creating the need for instruments that specifically address MD online. The aim of this study is to adapt and validate the Moral Disengagement through Technologies Questionnaire (MDTech-Q) with Chilean university students. The sample comprised 527 university students (43.14% men, 56.86% women), with an average age of 22.09 years (SD (Standard Deviation) = 3.59) enrolled in 12 universities. First, a linguistic adaptation of the scale took place, and the surveys were applied considering ethical principles. Then, two confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were performed, which considered four correlated factors, and provided satisfactory indices, agreeing with the original theoretical proposal, and demonstrating suitable reliability by internal consistency. In relation to the analyses of invariance according to sex and social media use, the MDTech-Q is stable up to scalar invariance. This study provides evidence of the psychometric quality of the MDTech-Q for its use on Chilean university students.
Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Reliability of the 15D Portuguese Version: A Generic Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) Instrument
Authors: Ferreira Soraia , Sintonen Harri , Raimundo Armando , Batalha Nuno , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Perez-Gomez Jorge , Parraca Jose A.
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Purpose: The assessment of quality of life is essential to the human condition and can be measured through questionnaires. This study aims to translate and culturally adapt the 15D questionnaire to assess the population’s quality of life, as well as explore its relative reliability and internal consistency; (2) Methods: The translation and cultural adaptation of the 15D questionnaire was carried out independently, considering two translations. The synthesis version was applied to eight subjects, distributed by gender. Cognitive interviews were conducted to observe clarity, acceptability, and familiarity with the version of the questionnaire. The final version of the questionnaire, in Portuguese, was again translated into the official language by two translators who had never had contact with the questionnaire. To assess the test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the 15D questionnaire, 43 participants were interviewed; (3) Results: Participants indicated that they had some doubts about dimensions, breathing, and discomfort and symptoms; however, as there were no suggestions for change, the questionnaire had no changes. Items were clear and understandable. Internal consistency was observed using Cronbach’s alpha, with values between 0.76 and 0.98. The test-retest reliability values were between 0.77 and 0.97; and (4) Conclusions: The Portuguese version of the 15D questionnaire was proved to be equivalent to the English version and to be reliable for the Portuguese population. This instrument is easy to access and apply.
Vasovagal Syncope at Work: A Narrative Review for an Occupational Management Proposal
Authors: Corvino Anna Rita , Russo Vincenzo , Monaco Maria Grazia Lourdes , Garzillo Elpidio Maria , Guida Daniele , Comune Angelo , Parente Erika , Lamberti Monica , Miraglia Nadia
Published: April 2023

Syncope is a complex clinical manifestation that presents considerable diagnostic difficulties and, consequently, numerous critical issues regarding fitness for work, especially for high-risk tasks. To date, it is impossible to quantify the exact impact of syncope on work and public safety since it is highly improbable to identify loss of consciousness as the fundamental cause of work or driving-related accidents, especially fatal injuries. Working at high-risk jobs such as public transport operators, in high elevations, or with exposure to moving parts, construction equipment, fireworks, or explosives demand attention and total awareness. Currently, no validated criteria or indicators are available for occupational risk stratification of a patient with reflex syncope to return to work. By drawing inspiration from the updated literature, this narrative review intends to summarise the leading knowledge required regarding the return to work for subjects affected by syncope. According to the available data, the authors highlighted some key findings, summarised in macro-items, such as defined risk stratification for vasovagal accidents, return to work after a critical event, and a focus on pacemaker (PM) implementation. Lastly, the authors proposed a flowchart for occupational physicians to help them manage the cases of workers affected by syncope and exposed to levels of risk that could represent a danger to the workers’ health.
Advancing the Study of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Relation to Psychological Health
Authors: Lucas-Thompson Rachel G. , Moran Megan J.
Published: April 2023

Since 2006, there has been exponential growth in the number of publications on mindfulness [...]
Neighborhood Physical and Social Environments and Social Inequalities in Health in Older Adolescents and Young Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Shareck Martine , Aubé Eliana , Sersli Stephanie
Published: April 2023

Poor health and well-being are prevalent among young people. Neighborhoods may play a role in promoting good health. Little is known on if and how neighborhood characteristics affect health, and social inequalities therein, among young people. In this scoping review, we asked: (1) what features of the neighborhood physical and social environments have been studied in association with the physical and mental health and well-being of young people 15 to 30 years old; and (2) to what extent have social differentials in these associations been studied, and how? We identified peer-reviewed articles (2000 to 2023) through database and snowball searches. We summarized study characteristics, exposure(s), outcome(s) and main findings, with an eye on social inequalities in health. Out of the 69 articles reviewed, most were quantitative, cross-sectional, conducted among 18-year-olds and younger, and focused on the residential neighborhood. Neighborhood social capital and mental health were the most common exposure and outcome studied, respectively. Almost half of the studies examined social inequalities in health, mostly across sex/gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. Evidence gaps remain, which include exploring settings other than residential neighborhoods, studying the older age stratum of young adulthood, and assessing a broader range of social inequalities. Addressing these gaps can support research and action on designing healthy and equitable neighborhoods for young people.
Transcriptome-Based Construction of the Gibberellin Metabolism and Signaling Pathways in Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla, and Functional Characterization of GA20ox and GA2ox in Regulating Plant Development and Abiotic Stress Adaptations
Authors: Wu Wenfei , Zhu Linhui , Wang Pan , Liao Yuwu , Duan Lanjuan , Lin Kai , Chen Xin , Li Lijie , Xu Jiajing , Hu Hao , Xu Zeng-Fu , Ni Jun
Published: April 2023

Gibberellins (GAs) are the key regulators controlling plant growth, wood production and the stress responses in perennial woody plants. The role of GA in regulating the above-mentioned processes in Eucalyptus remain largely unclear. There is still a lack of systematic identification and functional characterization of GA-related genes in Eucalyptus. In this study, a total of 59,948 expressed genes were identified from the major vegetative tissues of the E. grandis × E. urophylla using transcriptome sequencing. Then, the key gene families in each step of GA biosynthesis, degradation and signaling were investigated and compared with those of Arabidopsis, rice, and Populus. The expression profile generated using Real-time quantitative PCR showed that most of these genes exhibited diverse expression patterns in different vegetative organs and in response to abiotic stresses. Furthermore, we selectively overexpressed EguGA20ox1, EguGA20ox2 and EguGA2ox1 in both Arabidopsis and Eucalyptus via Agrobacterium tumefaciens or A. rhizogenes-mediated transformation. Though both Arabidopsis EguGA20ox1- and EguGA20ox2-overexpressing (OE) lines exhibited better vegetative growth performance, they were more sensitive to abiotic stress, unlike EguGA2ox1-OE plants, which exhibited enhanced stress resistance. Moreover, overexpression of EguGA20ox in Eucalyptus roots caused significantly accelerated hairy root initiation and elongation and improved root xylem differentiation. Our study provided a comprehensive and systematic study of the genes of the GA metabolism and signaling and identified the role of GA20ox and GA2ox in regulating plant growth, stress tolerance, and xylem development in Eucalyptus; this could benefit molecular breeding for obtaining high-yield and stress-resistant Eucalyptus cultivars.
The Genomic Variation and Differentially Expressed Genes on the 6P Chromosomes in Wheat–Agropyron cristatum Addition Lines 5113 and II-30-5 Confer Different Desirable Traits
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Han Haiming , Guo Baojin , Qi Kai , Zhang Jinpeng , Zhou Shenghui , Yang Xinming , Li Xiuquan , Lu Yuqing , Liu Weihua , Liu Xu , Li Lihui
Published: April 2023

Wild relatives of wheat are essential gene pools for broadening the genetic basis of wheat. Chromosome rearrangements and genomic variation in alien chromosomes are widespread. Knowledge of the genetic variation between alien homologous chromosomes is valuable for discovering and utilizing alien genes. In this study, we found that 5113 and II-30-5, two wheat–A. cristatum 6P addition lines, exhibited considerable differences in heading date, grain number per spike, and grain weight. Genome resequencing and transcriptome analysis revealed significant differences in the 6P chromosomes of the two addition lines, including 143,511 single-nucleotide polymorphisms, 62,103 insertion/deletion polymorphisms, and 757 differentially expressed genes. Intriguingly, genomic variations were mainly distributed in the middle of the chromosome arms and the proximal centromere region. GO and KEGG analyses of the variant genes and differentially expressed genes showed the enrichment of genes involved in the circadian rhythm, carbon metabolism, carbon fixation, and lipid metabolism, suggesting that the differential genes on the 6P chromosome are closely related to the phenotypic differences. For example, the photosynthesis-related genes PsbA, PsbT, and YCF48 were upregulated in II-30-5 compared with 5113. ACS and FabG are related to carbon fixation and fatty acid biosynthesis, respectively, and both carried modification variations and were upregulated in 5113 relative to II-30-5. Therefore, this study provides important guidance for cloning desirable genes from alien homologous chromosomes and for their effective utilization in wheat improvement.
Regulation of miR319b-Targeted SlTCP10 during the Tomato Response to Low-Potassium Stress
Authors: Liu Xin , Pei Lingling , Zhang Lingling , Zhang Xueying , Jiang Jing
Published: April 2023

Potassium deficiency confines root growth and decreases root-to-shoot ratio, thereby limiting root K+ acquisition. This study aimed to identify the regulation network of microRNA319 involved in low-K+ stress tolerance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). SlmiR319b-OE roots demonstrated a smaller root system, a lower number of root hairs and lower K+ content under low-K+ stress. We identified SlTCP10 as the target of miR319b using a modified RLM-RACE procedure from some SlTCPs’ predictive complementarity to miR319b. Then, SlTCP10-regulated SlJA2 (an NAC transcription factor) influenced the response to low-K+ stress. CR-SlJA2 (CRISPR-Cas9-SlJA2) lines showed the same root phenotype to SlmiR319-OE compared with WT lines. OE-SlJA2(Overexpression-SlJA2) lines showed higher root biomass, root hair number and K+ concentration in the roots under low-K+ conditions. Furthermore, SlJA2 has been reported to promote abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis. Therefore, SlJA2 increases low-K+ tolerance via ABA. In conclusion, enlarging root growth and K+ absorption by the expression of SlmiR319b-regulated SlTCP10, mediating SlJA2 in roots, could provide a new regulation mechanism for increasing K+ acquisition efficiency under low-K+ stress.
A Method for Increasing the Robustness of Stable Feature Selection for Biomarker Discovery in Molecular Medicine Developed Using Serum Small Extracellular Vesicle Associated miRNAs and the Barrett’s Oesophagus Disease Spectrum
Authors: Mayne George C. , Woodman Richard J. , Watson David I. , Bright Tim , Gan Susan , Lord Reginald V. , Bourke Michael J. , Levert-Mignon Angelique , Bastian Isabell , Irvine Tanya , Schloithe Ann , Martin Marian , Sheehan-Hennessy Lorraine , Hussey Damian J.
Published: April 2023

The biomarker development field within molecular medicine remains limited by the methods that are available for building predictive models. We developed an efficient method for conservatively estimating confidence intervals for the cross validation-derived prediction errors of biomarker models. This new method was investigated for its ability to improve the capacity of our previously developed method, StaVarSel, for selecting stable biomarkers. Compared with the standard cross validation method, StaVarSel markedly improved the estimated generalisable predictive capacity of serum miRNA biomarkers for the detection of disease states that are at increased risk of progressing to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. The incorporation of our new method for conservatively estimating confidence intervals into StaVarSel resulted in the selection of less complex models with increased stability and improved or similar predictive capacities. The methods developed in this study have the potential to improve progress from biomarker discovery to biomarker driven translational research.
Anti-Cancer SERCA Inhibitors Targeting Sorafenib-Resistant Human Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Chang Hang-Seok , Kim Yonjung , Lee So Young , Yun Hyeok Jun , Chang Ho-Jin , Park Ki Cheong
Published: April 2023

Thyroid cancer is generally curable and, in many cases, can be completely treated, although it can sometimes recur after cancer therapy. Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is known as one of the most general subtypes of thyroid cancer, which take up nearly 80% of whole thyroid cancer. However, PTC may develop anti-cancer drug resistance via metastasis or recurrence, making it practically incurable. In this study, we propose a clinical approach that identifies novel candidates based on target identification and validation of numerous survival-involved genes in human sorafenib-sensitive and -resistant PTC. Consequently, we recognized a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) in human sorafenib-resistant PTC cells. Based on the present results, we detected novel SERCA inhibitor candidates 24 and 31 via virtual screening. These SERCA inhibitors showed remarkable tumor shrinkage in the sorafenib-resistant human PTC xenograft tumor model. These consequences would be clinically worthwhile for the development of a new combinatorial strategy that effectively targets incredibly refractory cancer cells, such as cancer stem cells and anti-cancer drug-resistant cells.
Lipid-Sensing Receptor FFAR4 Modulates Pulmonary Epithelial Homeostasis following Immunogenic Exposures Independently of the FFAR4 Ligand Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
Authors: Sveiven Stefanie N. , Anesko Kyle , Morgan Joshua , Nair Meera G. , Nordgren Tara M.
Published: April 2023

The role of pulmonary free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4) is not fully elucidated and we aimed to clarify the impact of FFAR4 on the pulmonary immune response and return to homeostasis. We employed a known high-risk human pulmonary immunogenic exposure to extracts of dust from swine confinement facilities (DE). WT and Ffar4-null mice were repetitively exposed to DE via intranasal instillation and supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by oral gavage. We sought to understand if previous findings of DHA-mediated attenuation of the DE-induced inflammatory response are FFAR4-dependent. We identified that DHA mediates anti-inflammatory effects independent of FFAR4 expression, and that DE-exposed mice lacking FFAR4 had reduced immune cells in the airways, epithelial dysplasia, and impaired pulmonary barrier integrity. Analysis of transcripts using an immunology gene expression panel revealed a role for FFAR4 in lungs related to innate immune initiation of inflammation, cytoprotection, and immune cell migration. Ultimately, the presence of FFAR4 in the lung may regulate cell survival and repair following immune injury, suggestive of potential therapeutic directions for pulmonary disease.
Regulative Roles of Metabolic Plasticity Caused by Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation and Glycolysis on the Initiation and Progression of Tumorigenesis
Authors: Niu Nan , Ye Jinfeng , Hu Zhangli , Zhang Junbin , Wang Yun
Published: April 2023

One important feature of tumour development is the regulatory role of metabolic plasticity in maintaining the balance of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis in cancer cells. In recent years, the transition and/or function of metabolic phenotypes between mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis in tumour cells have been extensively studied. In this review, we aimed to elucidate the characteristics of metabolic plasticity (emphasizing their effects, such as immune escape, angiogenesis migration, invasiveness, heterogeneity, adhesion, and phenotypic properties of cancers, among others) on tumour progression, including the initiation and progression phases. Thus, this article provides an overall understanding of the influence of abnormal metabolic remodeling on malignant proliferation and pathophysiological changes in carcinoma.
Relationship between Excreted Uremic Toxins and Degree of Disorder of Children with ASD
Authors: Osredkar Joško , Baškovič Barbara Žvar , Finderle Petra , Bobrowska-Korczak Barbara , Gątarek Paulina , Rosiak Angelina , Giebułtowicz Joanna , Vrhovšek Maja Jekovec , Kałużna-Czaplińska Joanna
Published: April 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder in which communication and behavior are affected. A number of studies have investigated potential biomarkers, including uremic toxins. The aim of our study was to determine uremic toxins in the urine of children with ASD (143) and compare the results with healthy children (48). Uremic toxins were determined with a validated high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. We observed higher levels of p-cresyl sulphate (pCS) and indoxyl sulphate (IS) in the ASD group compared to the controls. Moreover, the toxin levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) were lower in ASD patients. Similarly, for pCS and IS in children classified, according to the intensity of their symptoms, into mild, moderate, and severe, elevated levels of these compounds were observed. For mild severity of the disorder, elevated levels of TMAO and comparable levels of SDMA and ADMA for ASD children as compared to the controls were observed in the urine. For moderate severity of ASD, significantly elevated levels of TMAO but reduced levels of SDMA and ADMA were observed in the urine of ASD children as compared to the controls. When the results obtained for severe ASD severity were considered, reduced levels of TMAO and comparable levels of SDMA and ADMA were observed in ASD children.
Dynamics of the Equine Placental DNA Methylome and Transcriptome from Mid- to Late Gestation
Authors: Orellana-Guerrero Daniela , Uribe-Salazar José M. , El-Sheikh Ali Hossam , Scoggin Kirsten E. , Ball Barry , Daels Peter , Finno Carrie J. , Dini Pouya
Published: April 2023

The placenta is a temporary organ that is essential for the survival of the fetus, with a lifelong effect on the health of both the offspring and the dam. The functions of the placenta are controlled by its dynamic gene expression during gestation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the equine placental DNA methylome as one of the fundamental mechanisms that controls the gene expression dynamic. Chorioallantois samples from four (4M), six (6M), and ten (10M) months of gestation were used to map the methylation pattern of the placenta. Globally, methylation levels increased toward the end of gestation. We identified 921 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) between 4M and 6M, 1225 DMRs between 4M and 10M, and 1026 DMRs between 6M and 10M. A total of 817 genes carried DMRs comparing 4M and 6M, 978 comparing 4M and 10M, and 804 comparing 6M and 10M. We compared the transcriptomes between the samples and found 1381 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) when comparing 4M and 6M, 1428 DEGs between 4M and 10M, and 741 DEGs between 6M and 10M. Finally, we overlapped the DEGs and genes carrying DMRs (DMRs-DEGs). Genes exhibiting (a) higher expression, low methylation and (b) low expression, high methylation at different time points were identified. The majority of these DMRs-DEGs were located in introns (48.4%), promoters (25.8%), and exons (17.7%) and were involved in changes in the extracellular matrix; regulation of epithelial cell migration; vascularization; and regulation of minerals, glucose, and metabolites, among other factors. Overall, this is the first report highlighting the dynamics in the equine placenta methylome during normal pregnancy. The findings presented serve as a foundation for future studies on the impact of abnormal methylation on the outcomes of equine pregnancies.
Plasma Exosomal Non-Coding RNA Profile Associated with Renal Damage Reveals Potential Therapeutic Targets in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Flores-Chova Ana , Martinez-Arroyo Olga , Riffo-Campos Angela L. , Ortega Ana , Forner Maria J. , Cortes Raquel
Published: April 2023

Despite considerable progress in our understanding of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathophysiology, patient diagnosis is often deficient and late, and this has an impact on disease progression. The aim of this study was to analyze non-coding RNA (ncRNA) packaged into exosomes by next-generation sequencing to assess the molecular profile associated with renal damage, one of the most serious complications of SLE, to identify new potential targets to improve disease diagnosis and management using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The plasma exosomes had a specific ncRNA profile associated with lupus nephritis (LN). The three ncRNA types with the highest number of differentially expressed transcripts were microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). We identified an exosomal 29-ncRNA molecular signature, of which 15 were associated only with LN presence; piRNAs were the most representative, followed by lncRNAs and miRNAs. The transcriptional regulatory network showed a significant role for four lncRNAs (LINC01015, LINC01986, AC087257.1 and AC022596.1) and two miRNAs (miR-16-5p and miR-101-3p) in network organization, targeting critical pathways implicated in inflammation, fibrosis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition and actin cytoskeleton. From these, a handful of potential targets, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily binding proteins (activin-A, TGFB receptors, etc.), WNT/β-catenin and fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) have been identified for use as therapeutic targets of renal damage in SLE.
Study of the Molecular Mechanisms of the Therapeutic Properties of Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Silachev Denis N.
Published: April 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small biological structures that are released by cells and have important roles in intercellular communication [...]
Genome-Wide Association Study of Age at First Calving in U.S. Holstein Cows
Authors: Prakapenka Dzianis , Liang Zuoxiang , Da Yang
Published: April 2023

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of age at first calving (AFC) using 813,114 first lactation Holstein cows and 75,524 SNPs identified 2063 additive effects and 29 dominance effects with p-values < 10−8. Three chromosomes had highly significant additive effects in the regions of 7.86–8.12 Mb of Chr15, 27.07–27.48 Mb and 31.25–32.11 Mb of Chr19, and 26.92–32.60 Mb of Chr23. Two of the genes in those regions were reproductive hormone genes with known biological functions that should be relevant to AFC, the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) gene, and the progesterone receptor (PGR) gene. The most significant dominance effects were near or in EIF4B and AAAS of Chr05 and AFF1 and KLHL8 of Chr06. All dominance effects were positive overdominance effects where the heterozygous genotype had an advantage, and the homozygous recessive genotype of each SNP had a very negative dominance value. Results from this study provided new evidence and understanding about the genetic variants and genome regions affecting AFC in U.S. Holstein cows.
Interdependencies between Urban Transport, Water, and Solid Waste Infrastructure Systems
Authors: Jayasinghe Poornima A. , Derrible Sybil , Kattan Lina
Published: April 2023

Developing integrated, sustainable, and resilient urban systems requires consideration of the different types of interdependencies between their infrastructure systems. The degree and nature of interdependencies among infrastructure systems vary widely. This article identifies and analyzes the interdependencies between urban transport, water, and solid waste. A comprehensive review is conducted, an interdependency matrix for the three systems is developed, and the interdependencies are analyzed qualitatively. The analysis shows that the three systems are highly interdependent, indicating that an integrated approach that considers the mutual impacts, conflicts, and interactions among them at all stages of their life cycles is necessary to promote sustainability and resilience. This article also identifies opportunities for developing new integrated planning and design approaches and emphasizes the need for further research in this area to quantify infrastructure interdependencies. This is particularly important in the context of rapid urbanization and the pressure on cities to adapt to climate change.
Alcohol Septal Ablation in Patients with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy: A Contemporary Perspective
Authors: Gragnano Felice , Pelliccia Francesco , Guarnaccia Natale , Niccoli Giampaolo , De Rosa Salvatore , Piccolo Raffaele , Moscarella Elisabetta , Fabris Enrico , Montone Rocco Antonio , Cesaro Arturo , Porto Italo , Indolfi Ciro , Sinagra Gianfranco , Perrone Filardi Pasquale , Andò Giuseppe , Calabrò Paolo
Published: April 2023

Alcohol septal ablation is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy. The procedure causes a controlled myocardial infarction of the basal portion of the interventricular septum by the injection of absolute alcohol with the aim of reducing LVOT obstruction and improving the patient’s hemodynamics and symptoms. Numerous observations have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the procedure, making it a valid alternative to surgical myectomy. In particular, the success of alcohol septal ablation depends on appropriate patient selection and the experience of the institution where the procedure is performed. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on alcohol septal ablation and highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving a team of clinical and interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons with high expertise in the management of HOCM patients—the Cardiomyopathy Team.
Gene Expression of Inflammatory Cytokines in Major Organs by Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: Abe Takuya , Hanawa Haruo , Fujii Yutaka
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) is indispensable for cardiac surgery. Despite the fact that ECC causes non-physiological damage to blood components, its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. In our previous study, we constructed a rat ECC system and observed a systemic inflammatory response during and after blood tests assessing ECC, while the damage per organ localization caused by ECC was not examined. In this study, we used a rat model to assess the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines in major organs during ECC. (2) Methods: The ECC system consisted of a membranous oxygenator, tubing line, and a small roller pump. Rats were divided into a SHAM (which received surgical preparation only, without ECC) group and an ECC group. Proinflammatory cytokines were measured using real-time PCR in major organs after ECC to evaluate local inflammatory responses in the organs. (3) Results: Interleukin (IL)-6 levels were significantly elevated in the ECC group compared to the SHAM group, especially in the heart and lungs. (4) Conclusions: This study suggests that ECC promotes organ damage and the inflammatory response, but the degree of gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines varies from organ to organ, suggesting that it does not uniformly cause organ damage.
Cerebrovascular, Cognitive and Cardiac Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors Therapy in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Results from a Global Federated Health Network Analysis
Authors: Proietti Riccardo , Rivera-Caravaca José Miguel , López-Gálvez Raquel , Harrison Stephanie L. , Marín Francisco , Underhill Paula , Shantsila Eduard , McDowell Garry , Vinciguerra Manlio , Davies Rhys , Giebel Clarissa , Lane Deirdre A. , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: April 2023

Background: Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are effective anti-diabetic drugs improving cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. This study investigated cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and cognitive outcomes of SGLT2i therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and T2DM. Methods: Observational study using TriNetX, a global health research network of anonymised electronic medical records from real-world patients between January 2018 and December 2019. The network includes healthcare organisations globally but predominately in the United States. AF patients (ICD-10-CM code: I48) with T2DM were divided according to SGLT2i use or not, and balanced using propensity score matching (PSM). Patients were followed-up for 3-years. The primary endpoints were ischaemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), intracranial haemorrhage (ICH), and incident dementia. Secondary endpoints were incident heart failure and mortality. Results: We identified 89,356 AF patients with T2DM of which 5061 (5.7%) were taking a SGLT2i. After PSM, 5049 patients (mean age 66.7 ± 10.6 years; 28.9% female) were included in each group. At 3-years follow-up, the risk of ischaemic stroke/TIA was higher in patients not receiving SGLT2i (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.24) and for ICH (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.25–1.99) and incident dementia (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.30–2.12). Incident heart failure (HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.34–1.68) and mortality (HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.58–1.99) risks were increased in AF patients not receiving SGLT2i. Conclusions: In our large ‘real world’ analysis of patients with concomitant AF and T2DM, SGLT2i reduced the risk of cerebrovascular events, incident dementia, heart failure and death.
Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator-Related Culture-Negative Infection: A Case of Coxiella burnetii Infection
Authors: Papakonstantinou Panteleimon E. , Georgiadou Victoria , Doumanis Grigorios , Bistola Vasiliki , Papaparaskevas Joseph , Filippatos Gerasimos , Xydonas Sotirios
Published: April 2023

Coxiella burnetii is one of the most common causes of blood culture-negative infective endocarditis (IE). However, only a few cases of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) infection have been reported in the literature. Herein, we present a case of CIED-related blood culture-negative infection attributed to C. burnetii. A 54-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to prolonged fatigue, a low-grade fever lasting more than a month, and weight loss. Three years ago, he received an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) as a primary prevention measure against sudden cardiac death. An initial transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography showed a dilated left ventricle with severely impaired systolic function, while the ventricular pacing wire was inside the right ventricle with a large echogenic mass (2.2 × 2.5 cm) adherent to it. Repeated blood cultures were negative. The patient underwent transvenous lead extraction. A transesophageal echocardiography after the extraction revealed multiple vegetations on the tricuspid valve with moderate to severe valve regurgitation. A surgical replacement of the tricuspid valve was determined after a multidisciplinary heart team approach. Serology tests showed increased IgG antibodies in phase I (1:16,394) and phase II (1:8192), and a definite diagnosis of CIED infection was made based on the serological tests.
A Newly Developed Hematuria Grading System May Predict the Status of Stone-Free and Acute Pyelonephritis of Minimally Invasive Renal Stone Surgery
Authors: Kim Gyeong Hun , Jung Gyoohwan , Suh Jungyo , Park Juhyun , Cho Sung Yong
Published: April 2023

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of hematuria and the presence of clots during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) to predict surgical outcomes. Materials and Methods: The data of patients who underwent RIRS and mPCNL were analyzed separately. A hematuria grading (HG) system was classified into five grades based on the presence of blood clots and any visible stones according to the irrigation settings. Inter-observer reliability of the grading system was assessed using intra-class correlation and Spearman’s rho. Results: The HG system showed high agreement among examiners, with high intra-class reliability and a strong correlation between RIRS and mPCNL groups. The stone density of the Houns-field unit was the most important factor in determining the hematuria across the development and validation groups of RIRS and mPCNL patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the HG system was a significant predictor for remnant stones in the PCNL group and the probability of acute pyelonephritis or sepsis in the RIRS group. The high hematuria group showed lower basketing difficulty with the basket with a blue marker instrument than with others. Conclusions: The new HG system shows excellent inter-observer reliability and a correlation with a gradual increase in stone density and surgical difficulty.
Vitamin D, Albumin, and D-Dimer as Significant Prognostic Markers in Early Hospitalization in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Popovska Jovičić Biljana , Raković Ivana , Gavrilović Jagoda , Sekulić Marković Sofija , Petrović Sara , Marković Vladan , Pavković Aleksandar , Čanović Predrag , Radojević Marjanović Ružica , Irić-Čupić Violeta , Popović Dragonjić Lidija , Milosavljević Miloš Z.
Published: April 2023

SARS-CoV-2 continues to pose a major challenge to scientists and clinicians. We examined the significance of the serum concentrations of vitamin D, albumin, and D-dimer for the severity of the clinical picture and mortality in COVID-19. Materials and methods: A total of 288 patients treated for COVID-19 infection participated in the research. The patients were treated in the period from May 2020 to January 2021. All patients were divided based on the need for oxygen therapy (Sat > 94%) into patients with mild or severe clinical pictures. The biochemical and radiographic parameters of the patients were analyzed. Appropriate statistical methods were used in the statistical analysis. Results: In patients with COVID-19 with confirmed severe clinical pictures, lower values of serum albumin (p < 0.0005) and vitamin D (p = 0.004) were recorded, as opposed to elevated values of D-dimer (p < 0.0005). Accordingly, the patients with fatal disease outcomes had lower levels of albumin (p < 0.0005) and vitamin D (p = 0.002), while their D-dimer (p < 0.0005) levels were elevated. An increase in the radiographic score, as a parameter for assessing the severity of the clinical picture, was accompanied by a decrease in serum albumin (p < 0.0005) and a simultaneous increase in D-dimer (p < 0.0005), without a change in the vitamin D concentration (p = 0.261). We also demonstrated the interrelations of the serum levels of vitamin D, albumin, and D-dimer in patients with COVID-19 as well as their significance as predictors of the outcome of the disease. Conclusion: The significance of the predictive parameters in our study indicates the existence of an important combined role of vitamin D, albumin, and D-dimer in the early diagnosis of the most severe patients suffering from COVID-19. Reduced values of vitamin D and albumin, in combination with elevated values of D-dimer, can be timely indicators of the development of a severe clinical picture and death due to COVID-19.
Static Design for Laterally Loaded Rigid Monopiles in Cohesive Soil
Authors: Luo Ruping , Hu Mingluqiu , Yang Min , Li Weichao , Wang Anhui
Published: April 2023

Rigid monopiles with small slenderness ratios (i.e., ratio of monopile embedded length to outer diameter) are widely used as foundations to resist lateral load and moment transferred from superstructures, e.g., large diameter steel pipes used by offshore wind turbines and piers in electric utility industry or sound barriers. A design model for laterally loaded rigid monopiles in cohesive soil is presented in this paper. The proposed design model assumes a constant depth of rotation point as well as a trilinear distribution model of soil lateral reaction along the embedded length of the monopile, and introduces a mobilization coefficient of soil reaction to quantify the magnitude of soil reaction mobilized under a certain load applied at the monopile head. The relationship between the mobilization coefficient and monopile head rotation is established by back-analyzing test results measured from series of laterally loaded pile tests, and then a general design procedure for a laterally loaded rigid monopile in cohesive soil is recommended. The feasibility and reliability of the proposed design model is validated against three cases of numerical simulations on laterally loaded piles in cohesive soils. It shows that this study’s proposed design model produces a relatively satisfactory prediction of the nonlinear load-deformation response, and can be used for laterally loaded monopile design in the sites with undrained shear strength being uniform or increasing linearly with depth.
What’s Math Got to Do with It?: Establishing Nuanced Relations between Math Anxiety, Financial Anxiety, and Financial Literacy
Authors: Storozuk Andie , Maloney Erin A.
Published: April 2023

We investigate the relations between math anxiety, financial anxiety, and financial literacy while extending previous research in three ways. First, we examine the distinct subconstructs that comprise financial literacy (i.e., financial knowledge, confidence, attitudes, and behaviour). Second, we distinguish between financial knowledge items that are confounded with numeracy versus items that are not. Third, we control for trait anxiety. Using survey data from Canadian adults (N = 241), we demonstrate that math anxiety is negatively related to mathematical financial knowledge but is not related to conceptual financial knowledge, financial confidence, or financial behaviour. Financial anxiety, conversely, is negatively related to both mathematical and conceptual financial knowledge, financial confidence, and ideal financial behaviour. Our data suggest that, when considering financial literacy holistically, financial anxiety is more important than previously thought. These findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between the subconstructs that comprise financial literacy when attempting to understand individual differences that relate to financial literacy. Educators and policymakers looking to improve financial literacy would seemingly benefit from employing a targeted approach to decrease anxiety toward both math and finances.
Study on the Impact of Social Capital on Agricultural Land Transfer Decision: Based on 1017 Questionnaires in Hubei Province
Authors: Chen Yinrong , Qin Yanqing , Zhu Qingying
Published: April 2023

In building a market for the transfer of land contracting rights, it is crucial to clarify the influencing factors for farmers’ farmland transfer decisions to promote the orderly transfer of farmland. This article investigates the impact of social capital on farmland transfer and analyzes the moderating effect of marketization of farmland transfer using research data from 1017 farm households in Hubei Province. The results showed that social capital significantly contributes to farmers’ farmland transfer decisions; social networks and social trust have more potent effects on farmland transfer-in than farmland transfer-out and social norms have more substantial effects on farmland transfer-out than farmland transfer-in; and farmland transfer marketization plays a moderating role in the process of social capital’s influence on farmland transfer decisions. In terms of farmland transfer-out, marketization of farmland transfer plays a negative moderating role between social network, social trust, and farmland transfer decision, and a positive moderating role between social norm and farmland transfer decision. In terms of farmland transfer-in, marketization of farmland transfer plays a negative moderating role between social network, social trust, and farmland transfer decision, and no moderating role in social norm and farmland transfer decision. The study concludes that local governments need to strengthen the construction of social norms and the reconstruction of social trust and networks to create a favorable environment for agricultural land transfer while improving the construction of regional agricultural land transfer markets and promoting the development of market transformation.