bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypertension Control and Guideline-Recommended Target Blood Pressure Goal Achievement at an Early Stage of Hypertension in the UAE
Authors: Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth , Shah Syed Mahboob , Suliman Abubaker , Oulhaj Abderrahim , Aburawi Elhadi Husein
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: The present study aimed to assess the changes in blood pressure (BP) within the first 6 months of treatment initiation in a newly treated hypertensive cohort and to identify the factors that are associated with achieving the target BP recommended by the American (ACC/AHA, 2017), European (ESC/ESH, 2018), United Kingdom (NICE, 2019), and International Society of Hypertension (ISH, 2020) guidelines. (2) Methods: We analyzed 5308 incident hypertensive outpatients across Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), in 2017; each patient was followed up for 6 months. Hypertension was defined as a BP of 130/80 mmHg according to the ACC/AHA guidelines and 140/90 mmHg according to the ESC/ESH, NICE, and ISH guidelines. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with achieving the guideline-recommended BP targets. (3) Results: At baseline, the mean BP was 133.9 ± 72.9 mmHg and 132.7 ± 72.5 mmHg at 6 months. The guideline-recommended BP targets were 39.5%, 43%, 65.6%, and 40.8%, according to the ACC/AHA, ESC/ESH, NICE, and ISH guidelines, respectively. A BMI of <25 kg/m2 was associated with better BP control according to the ACC/AHA (odds ratio (OR) = 1.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07–1.49), ESC/ESH (OR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.08–1.50), and ISH guidelines (OR = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.03–1.44). Hypertension treated in secondary care settings was more likely to achieve the BP targets recommended by the ACC/AHA (1.31 times), ESC/ESH (1.32 times), NICE (1.41 times), and ISH (1.34 times) guidelines. (4) Conclusions: BP goal achievement was suboptimal. BP control efforts should prioritize improving cardiometabolic goals and lifestyle modifications.
Tranexamic Acid for Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pecold Jaroslaw , Al-Jeabory Mahdi , Krupowies Maciej , Manka Ewa , Smereka Adam , Ladny Jerzy Robert , Szarpak Lukasz
Published: December 2021

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent that has been shown to decrease blood loss and transfusion rates after knee and hip arthroplasty, however with only limited evidence to support its use in shoulder arthroplasty. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the clinical usefulness of tranexamic acid for shoulder arthroplasty. A thorough literature search was conducted across four electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus) from inception through to 1 December 2021. The mean difference (MD), odds ratio (OR) or relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to estimate pooled results from studies. Total of 10 studies comprising of 993 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Blood volume loss in the TXA and non-TXA group was 0.66 ± 0.52 vs. 0.834 ± 0.592 L (MD= −0.15; 95%CI: −0.23 to −0.07; p < 0.001). Change of hemoglobin levels were 2.2 ± 1.0 for TXA group compared to 2.7 ± 1.1 for non-TXA group (MD= −0.51; 95%CI: −0.57 to −0.44; p < 0.001) and hematocrit change was 6.1 ± 2.7% vs. 7.9 ± 3.1%, respectively; (MD= −1.43; 95%CI: −2.27 to −0.59; p < 0.001). Tranexamic acid use for shoulder arthroplasty reduces blood volume loss during and after surgery and reduces drain output and hematocrit change.
The Relationship between Selected Body Composition Components and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Parameters in Nurses: An Observational Simulation Study
Authors: Więch Paweł , Muster Marek , Godek Łukasz , Sałacińska Izabela , Guty Edyta , Kucaba Grzegorz , Bazaliński Dariusz
Published: December 2021

The provision of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be related to the physical parameters of the medical personnel, including fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) components. In this study, we aimed to assess the relationship between selected body composition components and chest compression and ventilation parameters provided by medical staff. An observational simulation study was undertaken between December 2017 and January 2019 at the Center for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences of Rzeszów. In all participants (505 nurses, 37.71 y ± 12.16), the body weight and height were measured and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The body composition indicators were obtained using a bioelectrical impedance device, AKERN BIA 101. Afterwards, all participants performed CPR sequences (30 chest compressions and rescue for 2 breaths) for 2 min on a Laerdal Resusci Anne simulator placed on an examination couch with a self-inflating bag and a face mask. Our observations proved that high values of the anthropometric, nutritional and body composition parameters of the medical staff demonstrated a positive significant correlation with the depth and rate chest parameters and were inversely related to the chest adequate recoil. No statistically significant differences were found between the FM or FFM components and ventilation parameters. This study showed that nutritional status and body composition components may be important factors affecting the quality of CPR.
Reduced Sympathetic Reserve Detectable by Heart Rate Response after Dipyridamole in Anginal Patients with Normal Coronary Arteries
Authors: Cortigiani Lauro , Carpeggiani Clara , Meola Laura , Djordjevic-Dikic Ana , Bovenzi Francesco , Picano Eugenio
Published: December 2021

Background. Patients with ischemia and normal coronary arteries (INOCA) may show abnormal cardiac sympathetic function, which could be unmasked as a reduced heart rate reserve (HRR) during dipyridamole stress echocardiography (SE). Objectives. To assess whether HRR during dipyridamole SE predicts outcome. Methods. Dipyridamole SE was performed in 292 patients with INOCA. HRR was measured as peak/rest heart rate and considered abnormal when ≤1.22 (≤1.17 in presence of permanent atrial fibrillation). All-cause death was the only endpoint. Results. HRR during SE was normal in 183 (63%) and abnormal in 109 patients (37%). During a follow-up of 10.4 ± 5.5 years, 89 patients (30%) died. The 15-year mortality rate was 27% in patients with normal and 54% in those with abnormal HRR (p < 0.0001). In a multivariable analysis, a blunted HRR during SE was an independent predictor of outcome (hazard ratio 1.86, 95% confidence intervals 1.20–2.88; p = 0.006) outperforming inducible ischemia. Conclusions. A blunted HRR during dipyridamole SE predicts a worse survival in INOCA patients, independent of inducible ischemia.
Hyperglycemia on Admission Predicts Acute Kidney Failure and Renal Functional Recovery among Inpatients
Authors: Gorelik Yuri , Bloch-Isenberg Natalie , Hashoul Siwar , Heyman Samuel N. , Khamaisi Mogher
Published: December 2021

Background: Hyperglycemia is associated with adverse outcomes in hospitalized patients. We aimed to assess the impact of glucose levels upon admission on the subsequent deterioration or improvement of kidney function in inpatients with a focus on diabetes or reduced baseline kidney function as possible modifiers of this effect. Methods: Running a retrospective cohort analysis, we compared patients with normal vs. high glucose levels upon admission. We applied multivariable logistic regression models to study the association between baseline glucose levels with subsequent renal and clinical outcomes. Interaction terms were used to study a possible modifier effect of diabetes. Results: Among 95,556 inpatients (52% males, mean age 61 years), 15,675 (16.5%) had plasma glucose higher than 180 mg/dL, and 72% of them were diabetics. Patients with higher glucose at presentation were older, with a higher proportion of co-morbid conditions. Rates of acute kidney injury (AKI), acute kidney functional recovery (AKR), and mortality were proportional to reduced renal function. AKI, AKR, and mortality were almost doubled in patients with high baseline glucose upon admission. Multivariable analysis with interaction terms demonstrated an increasing adjusted probability of all events as glucose increased, yet this association was observed principally in non-diabetic patients. Conclusions: Hyperglycemia is associated with AKI, AKR, and mortality in non-diabetic inpatients in proportion to the severity of their acute illness. This association diminishes in diabetic patients, suggesting a possible impact of treatable and easily reversible renal derangement in this population.
Risk Factors Associated with the Development of Metastases in Patients with Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kohno Shuzo , Ikegami Masahiro , Ikegami Toru , Aoki Hiroaki , Ogawa Masaichi , Yano Fumiaki , Eto Ken
Published: December 2021

Neuroendocrine tumors develop from systemic endocrine and nerve cells, and their occurrence has increased recently. Since these tumors are heterogeneous, pathological classification has been based on the affected organ. In 2019, the World Health Organization introduced a change expected to influence neuroendocrine tumor research, as gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors are now included within a unified classification. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the characteristics (e.g., lymph node metastases and all other metastases) of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors using this new classification in 50 cases. Tumor size, depth, MIB-1 index, lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, and neuroendocrine tumor grade were significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis and other metastases. The venous invasion was more strongly correlated with lymph node metastasis and all other types of metastases than with lymphatic invasion. Identification rates for lymphatic invasion were considered lower because of structural problems such as lymphatic vessels being much thinner than veins. However, venous invasion was considered effective in compensating for the low identification rate in cases of lymphatic invasion. In future research, a unified classification and standardized framework for assessment will be important when analyzing the characteristics of neuroendocrine tumors, and large-scale studies are required.
Waning Humoral Response 3 to 6 Months after Vaccination with the SARS-COV-2 BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Berar-Yanay Noa , Freiman Sarit , Shapira Maʹanit , Saffoury Amer , Elemy Ameer , Hamze Munir , Elhaj Mohamad , Zaher Maha , Matanis Loai , Armaly Zaher Anis
Published: December 2021

Background and objectives: The short-term reported antibody response to SARS-COV-2 vaccination in dialysis patients is high, with a seroconversion response rate up to 97%. Data on the long-term durability of this response are scarce. Our objective was to characterize the long-term anti-spike antibody level in dialysis patients. Design, setting, participants, and measurements: In an observational study, we measured SARS-COV-2 anti-spike antibody levels in dialysis patients who completed 2 doses of the BNT162b2 mRNA SAR S-COV-2 vaccine at 1, 3 and 6 months after the second vaccine dose. We compared the response to dialysis patients who were infected with COVD-19 and to a control group of healthcare-employees. Results: One hundred and forty-two dialysis patients who had been vaccinated (ages 64 ± 11.9 years, 61% male), 33 dialysis patients who had COVID-19 infection (ages 54 ± 14.3 years, 55% male) and 104 individuals in the control group (ages 50 ± 12.2 years, 44% male) were included. The response rate in the vaccinated dialysis patients was 94%, 78% and 73% at 1, 3 and 6 months after the second vaccine dose. In the COVID-19 infected dialysis group and in the control group, the response rate remained at 100% over 6 months. The percentage of change in antibody levels between one and 6 months was −66% in the vaccinated dialysis group, −28% in the control group (p < 0.001) and +48% in dialysis patients who had been infected with COVID-19 (p < 0.001). A non-responder status at 6 months was associated with a lower albumin level. No serious adverse events following vaccination were reported. In conclusion: the initially high response rate to the BNT162b2 vaccine in dialysis patients decreases rapidly. Our results indicate that an early booster (3rd) dose, at three months after the second dose, may be advised for this population to preserve the humoral immunity.
Questionnaire-Based Assessment of the Masticatory Function and Facial Nerve Recovery Post Pterional Approach in Brain Tumors Surgery
Authors: Gligor Mihaela Romanița , Cristache Corina Marilena , Bucur Mirela Veronica , Burlibasa Mihai , Matei Claudiu
Published: December 2021

Background: The pterional approach for craniotomy, one of the most used surgical intervention in neurosurgery, results in a series of postoperative changes that, if they persist, affect the patient’s life, social reintegration, and his/her physical and mental recovery. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a questionnaire for indicating directly affected masticatory muscles groups and facial nerve branches, in patients undergoing the pterional approach in neurosurgery, so that the recovery therapy can be monitored and personalized. Methods: A self-reporting questionnaire consisting of 18 items (12 for postoperative masticatory status and 6 for facial nerve branches involvement), validated on fifteen patients, following three steps: items development, scale development, and scale evaluation, was prospectively applied twice, at a one-year interval (T0 and T1), with thirty-two patients suffering from vascular or tumoral pathology and surgically treated through a pterional approach. Results: No statistically significant correlation could be found between postoperative outcomes and age or gender. Facial nerve branch involvement could not be correlated with any of the assessed variables. Pathology and time elapsed from surgery were statistically significantly correlated to preauricular pain on the non-operated side (p = 0.008 and p = 0.034, respectively). Time elapsed from surgery was statistically significantly correlated to the ability to chew hard food, pain while yawning, and preauricular pain during back and forward jaw movements and gradual mouth opening. Conclusions: We created and validated a valuable patient-centered questionnaire that can be employed as a tool for postoperative assessment of directly affected masticatory muscles and groups of facial nerve branches.
Comparison of Acquired Activated Protein C Resistance, Using the CAT and ST-Genesia® Analysers and Three Thrombin Generation Methods, in APS and SLE Patients
Authors: Efthymiou Maria , Lane Philip J. , Isenberg David , Cohen Hannah , Mackie Ian J.
Published: December 2021

Background: Acquired activated protein C resistance (APCr) has been identified in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Objective: To assess agreement between the ST-Genesia® and CAT analysers in identifying APCr prevalence in APS/SLE patients, using three thrombin generation (TG) methods. Methods: APCr was assessed with the ST-Genesia using STG-ThromboScreen and with the CAT using recombinant human activated protein C and Protac® in 105 APS, 53 SLE patients and 36 thrombotic controls. Agreement was expressed in % and by Cohen’s kappa coefficient. Results: APCr values were consistently lower with the ST-Genesia® compared to the CAT, using either method, in both APS and SLE patients. Agreement between the two analysers in identifying APS and SLE patients with APCr was poor (≤65.9%, ≤0.20) or fair (≤68.5%, ≥0.29), regardless of TG method, respectively; no agreement was observed in thrombotic controls. APCr with both the ST Genesia and the CAT using Protac®, but not the CAT using rhAPC, was significantly greater in triple antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) APS patients compared to double/single aPL patients (p < 0.04) and in thrombotic SLE patients compared to non-thrombotic SLE patients (p < 0.05). Notably, the ST-Genesia®, unlike the CAT, with either method, identified significantly greater APCr in pregnancy morbidity (median, confidence intervals; 36.9%, 21.9–49.0%) compared to thrombotic (45.7%, 39.6–55.5%) APS patients (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Despite the broadly similar methodology used by CAT and ST-Genesia®, agreement in APCr was poor/fair, with results not being interchangeable. This may reflect differences in the TG method, use of different reagents, and analyser data handling.
Investigation of HoxB3 and Growth Factors Expression in Placentas of Various Gestational Ages
Authors: Kreicberga Ilze , Junga Anna , Pilmane Māra
Published: December 2021

An evaluation of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2), fibroblast growth factors receptor 1 (FGFR1) and Hox-positive cells in the human placenta, and their correlation with gestational time at delivery and pregnancy outcomes, may provide not only a better understanding of the role of Hox genes and growth factors in human development, but also may be of clinical importance in reproductive medicine. This study analyzed the immunohistochemical identification of TGFβ, HGF, FGF-2, FGFR1 and HoxB3 in placentas of various gestational ages. We found few (+) TGFβ, moderate (++) FGF-2 and numerous (+++) HGF and FGFR1 positive structures. Occasional (0/+) to numerous (+++) HoxB3-positive structures were detected in different types of placental cells specifically, cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblast, extravillous trophoblasts, and Höfbauer cells. Correlating the appearance of HoxB3 staining in placentas with neonatal parameters, we found a statistically significant negative correlation with ponderal index (r = −0.323, p = 0.018) and positive correlation with neonate body length (r = 0.541, p = 0.046). The number of HoxB3-positive cells did not correlate with growth factors and gestational age, but with neonatal anthropometrical parameters, indicating the role of HoxB3 not only in placental development, but also in the longitudinal growth of the fetus. TGFβ and FGF-2 did not play a significant role in the development of the placenta beyond 22nd week of pregnancy, while HGF and FGFR1 immunoreactive cells increased with advancing gestation, indicating increasingly evolving maturation (growth, proliferation) of the placenta, especially in the third trimester.
Effect of Nutritional Factors and Copper on the Regulation of Laccase Enzyme Production in Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Durán-Sequeda Dinary , Suspes Daniela , Maestre Estibenson , Alfaro Manuel , Perez Gumer , Ramírez Lucía , Pisabarro Antonio G. , Sierra Rocío
Published: December 2021

This research aimed to establish the relationship between carbon–nitrogen nutritional factors and copper sulfate on laccase activity (LA) by Pleurotus ostreatus. Culture media composition was tested to choose the nitrogen source. Yeast extract (YE) was selected as a better nitrogen source than ammonium sulfate. Then, the effect of glucose and YE concentrations on biomass production and LA as response variables was evaluated using central composite experimental designs with and without copper. The results showed that the best culture medium composition was glucose 45 gL−1 and YE 15 gL−1, simultaneously optimizing these two response variables. The fungal transcriptome was obtained in this medium with or without copper, and the differentially expressed genes were found. The main upregulated transcripts included three laccase genes (lacc2, lacc6, and lacc10) regulated by copper, whereas the principal downregulated transcripts included a copper transporter (ctr1) and a regulator of nitrogen metabolism (nmr1). These results suggest that Ctr1, which facilitates the entry of copper into the cell, is regulated by nutrient-sufficiency conditions. Once inside, copper induces transcription of laccase genes. This finding could explain why a 10–20-fold increase in LA occurs with copper compared to cultures without copper when using the optimal concentration of YE as nitrogen sources.
Sesquiterpenoids and Xanthones from the Kiwifruit-Associated Fungus Bipolaris sp. and Their Anti-Pathogenic Microorganism Activity
Authors: Yu Jun-Jie , Jin Ying-Xue , Huang Shan-Shan , He Juan
Published: December 2021

Nine previously undescribed sesquiterpenoids, bipolarisorokins A–I (1–9); two new xanthones, bipolarithones A and B (10 and 11); two novel sativene-xanthone adducts, bipolarithones C and D (12 and 13); as well as five known compounds (14–18) were characterized from the kiwifruit-associated fungus Bipolaris sp. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods, electronic circular dichroism (ECD), 13C NMR calculations, DP4+ probability analyses, and single crystal X-ray diffractions. Many compounds exhibited anti-pathogenic microorganism activity against the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae and four pathogenic microorganisms.
Diabetic and Hypertensive Retinopathy Screening in Fundus Images Using Artificially Intelligent Shallow Architectures
Authors: Arsalan Muhammad , Haider Adnan , Choi Jiho , Park Kang Ryoung
Published: December 2021

Retinal blood vessels are considered valuable biomarkers for the detection of diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and other retinal disorders. Ophthalmologists analyze retinal vasculature by manual segmentation, which is a tedious task. Numerous studies have focused on automatic retinal vasculature segmentation using different methods for ophthalmic disease analysis. However, most of these methods are computationally expensive and lack robustness. This paper proposes two new shallow deep learning architectures: dual-stream fusion network (DSF-Net) and dual-stream aggregation network (DSA-Net) to accurately detect retinal vasculature. The proposed method uses semantic segmentation in raw color fundus images for the screening of diabetic and hypertensive retinopathies. The proposed method’s performance is assessed using three publicly available fundus image datasets: Digital Retinal Images for Vessel Extraction (DRIVE), Structured Analysis of Retina (STARE), and Children Heart Health Study in England Database (CHASE-DB1). The experimental results revealed that the proposed method provided superior segmentation performance with accuracy (Acc), sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), and area under the curve (AUC) of 96.93%, 82.68%, 98.30%, and 98.42% for DRIVE, 97.25%, 82.22%, 98.38%, and 98.15% for CHASE-DB1, and 97.00%, 86.07%, 98.00%, and 98.65% for STARE datasets, respectively. The experimental results also show that the proposed DSA-Net provides higher SE compared to the existing approaches. It means that the proposed method detected the minor vessels and provided the least false negatives, which is extremely important for diagnosis. The proposed method provides an automatic and accurate segmentation mask that can be used to highlight the vessel pixels. This detected vasculature can be utilized to compute the ratio between the vessel and the non-vessel pixels and distinguish between diabetic and hypertensive retinopathies, and morphology can be analyzed for related retinal disorders.
A Literature Review of Taxes in Cross-Border Supply Chain Modeling: Themes, Tax Types and New Trade-Offs
Authors: Mu Dong , Ren Huanyu , Wang Chao
Published: December 2021

The e-commerce platforms have facilitated the information flow of cross-border supply chain (CBSC) and attracted a wide range of companies and individuals to participate in cross-border businesses. The tax costs associated with cross-border commodity flow have received unprecedented attention. However, there is a lack of common platforms between international tax planners and CBSC optimizers, and the impact of various tax policies on CBSC operations is still unclear. To fill this gap, this study presents a literature review to elaborate on the interface between taxes and CBSC operations. First, a literature collection approach is constructed, and 71 pertinent publications are identified. Then, a four-dimensional categorization consisting of supply chain themes, research methodologies, tax types, and illustration types was designed to classify and summarize the research content of the selected articles. The results show that (1) there are six main supply chain-related themes, i.e., the supply chain network, the distribution channel structure, product quantity and quality, production outsourcing, the procurement mode, and supply chain emissions, that are significantly affected by taxes. (2) Four types of taxes, including the corporate income tax (CIT), tariffs, environmental taxes and the value-added tax (VAT), have obvious impacts on CBSC operations. (3) Four mainstream methodologies, i.e., mathematical models, empirical models, conceptual models and simulation models, have been applied to explore the tax effects in CBSC modeling. (4) The tax-saving opportunities in CBSC operations mainly come from the following five areas: CIT rate gaps in different regions, special tax regulations such as the tax cross-credit principle and arm’s length principle, regional trade agreements (RTAs), preferential tax policies and export VAT rebate policy. Finally, this research provides a framework to analyze the trade-offs between taxes and traditional CBSC modeling factors. The results can support enterprises in CBSC in dealing with the complex international tax policies.
Spatio-Temporal Evolution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Urban Service-Industry Land in China
Authors: Zhao Sidong , Zhao Kaixu , Yan Yiran , Zhu Kai , Guan Chiming
Published: December 2021

The level of service-industry development has become an important symbol of the competitiveness and influence of cities. The study of the dynamic evolution characteristics and patterns of urban service-industry land use, the driving factors and their interactions is helpful to provide a basis for decision making in policy design and land use planning for the development of service economies. In this study we have conducted an empirical study of China, based on the methods of spatial cold- and hot-spot analysis, Tapio’s decoupling model, and GeoDetector. We found that: (1) the scales of land use, output efficiencies and development intensities of service-industries are increasing with a trend that takes the form of a “J”, “U” and “inverted U”, respectively; (2) Spatial variabilities and agglomerations are significant, with a stable spatial pattern of the scale of service-industry land use, and a gradient in the distribution of cold- and hot-spots. The dominant spatial units of output efficiency and development intensity have changed from low and lower to high and higher, and the cold- and hot-spots gather in clusters; (3) The development of service-industries is highly dependent on the input of land-resources, and only a few provinces are in a state of strong decoupling, while most are in a state of weak decoupling, with quite a few still in a state of expansive coupling, expansive negative decoupling, or even strong negative decoupling; (4) There are many driving factors for land use changes in the service-industry, with increasingly complicated and diversified relationships between each other, ranked in intensity as the scale effect > informatization > globalization > industrialization > urbanization.
Ultrasound Imaging for the Diagnosis and Evaluation of Sarcopenia: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Wang Jia-Chi , Wu Wei-Ting , Chang Ke-Vin , Chen Lan-Rong , Chi Shao-Yu , Kara Murat , Özçakar Levent
Published: December 2021

There is an increasing number of reviews investigating the value of ultrasound (US) in the assessment of aging-related muscle loss. The present umbrella review aimed to systematically investigate the evidence of US imaging in the diagnosis and evaluation of sarcopenia. PubMed, Medline, Embase and Web of Science were searched from their inceptions to 31 October 2021. Systematic reviews and reviews using a systematic strategy for literature search were enrolled. The extracted data were narrated at the level of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This umbrella review included four articles pertaining to 125 original studies and yielded several important findings. First, US is a reliable and valid imaging tool for the assessment of skeletal muscle mass. Second, among all the US parameters in B-mode, muscle thickness is the most commonly used one, which has good correlation with other standard measurements. Third, although sonoelastography and contrast-enhanced US are promising imaging modalities, their clinical utility is still limited at the current stage. Finally, a future systematic review is warranted to analyze how different ultrasonographic diagnostic criteria influence the prevalence of sarcopenia as well as its adverse health outcomes.
Endocrinopathies and Male Infertility
Authors: Sengupta Pallav , Dutta Sulagna , Karkada Ivan Rolland , Chinni Suresh V.
Published: December 2021

Male infertility is approaching a concerning prevalence worldwide, and inflicts various impacts on the affected couple. The hormonal assessment is a vital component of male fertility evaluation as endocrine disorders are markedly reversible causatives of male infertility. Precise hormonal regulations are prerequisites to maintain normal male fertility parameters. The core male reproductive event, spermatogenesis, entails adequate testosterone concentration, which is produced via steroidogenesis in the Leydig cells. Physiological levels of both the gonadotropins are needed to achieve normal testicular functions. The hypothalamus-derived gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is considered the supreme inducer of the gonadotropins and thereby the subsequent endocrine reproductive events. This hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis may be modulated by the thyroidal or adrenal axis and numerous other reproductive and nonreproductive hormones. Disruption of this fine hormonal balance and their crosstalk leads to a spectrum of endocrinopathies, inducing subfertility or infertility in men. This review article will discuss the most essential endocrinopathies associated with male factor infertility to aid precise understanding of the endocrine disruptions-mediated male infertility to encourage further research to reveal the detailed etiology of male infertility and perhaps to develop more customized therapies for endocrinopathy-induced male infertility.
Microbes from Brine Systems with Fluctuating Salinity Can Thrive under Simulated Martian Chemical Conditions
Authors: Kelbrick Matthew , Oliver James A. W. , Ramkissoon Nisha K. , Dugdale Amy , Stephens Ben P. , Kucukkilic-Stephens Ezgi , Schwenzer Susanne P. , Antunes André , Macey Michael C.
Published: December 2021

The waters that were present on early Mars may have been habitable. Characterising environments analogous to these waters and investigating the viability of their microbes under simulated martian chemical conditions is key to developing hypotheses on this habitability and potential biosignature formation. In this study, we examined the viability of microbes from the Anderton Brine Springs (United Kingdom) under simulated martian chemistries designed to simulate the chemical conditions of water that may have existed during the Hesperian. Associated changes in the fluid chemistries were also tested using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The tested Hesperian fluid chemistries were shown to be habitable, supporting the growth of all of the Anderton Brine Spring isolates. However, inter and intra-generic variation was observed both in the ability of the isolates to tolerate more concentrated fluids and in their impact on the fluid chemistry. Therefore, whilst this study shows microbes from fluctuating brines can survive and grow in simulated martian water chemistry, further investigations are required to further define the potential habitability under past martian conditions.
Two Novel Homozygous HPS6 Mutations (Double Mutant) Identified by Whole-Exome Sequencing in a Saudi Consanguineous Family Suspected for Oculocutaneous Albinism
Authors: Karim Sajjad , Saharti Samah , Alganmi Nofe , Mirza Zeenat , Alfares Ahmed , Turkistany Shereen , Al-Attas Manal , Noureldin Hend , Al Sakkaf Khadega , Abusamra Heba , Al-Qahtani Mohammed , Abuzenadah Adel
Published: December 2021

Background: Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is an autosomal recessive disorder of low or missing pigmentation in the eyes, hair, and skin. Multiple types of OCA, including Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome 6 (HPS6), are distinguished by their genetic cause and pigmentation pattern. HPS6 is characterized by OCA, nose bleeding due to platelet dysfunction, and lysosome storage defect. To date, 25 disease-associated mutations have been reported in the HPS6 gene. Methods: DNA was extracted from proband, and whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed using the Illumina NovaSeq platform. Bioinformatic analysis was done with a custom-designed filter pipeline to detect the causative variant. We did Sanger sequencing to confirm the candidate variant and segregation analysis, and protein-based structural analysis to evaluate the functional impact of variants. Result: Proband-based WES identified two novel homozygous mutations in HPS6 (double mutation, c.1136C>A and c.1789delG) in an OCA suspect. Sanger sequencing confirmed the WES results. Although no platelet and/or lysosome storage defect was detected in the patient or family, an oculocutaneous albinism diagnosis was established based on the HPS6 mutations. Structural analysis revealed the transformation of abnormalities at protein level for both nonsense and frameshift mutations in HPS6. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, the double mutation in HPS6 (p.Ser379Ter and p.Ala597GlnfsTer16) represents novel pathogenic variants, not described previously, which we report for the first time in the Saudi family. In silico analyses showed a significant impact on protein structure. WES should be used to identify HPS6 and/or other disease-associated genetic variants in Saudi Arabia, particularly in consanguineous families.
Pediatric Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Ferilli Michela Ada Noris , Paparella Roberto , Morandini Ilaria , Papetti Laura , Figà Talamanca Lorenzo , Ruscitto Claudia , Ursitti Fabiana , Moavero Romina , Sforza Giorgia , Tarantino Samuela , Proietti Checchi Martina , Vigevano Federico , Valeriani Massimiliano
Published: December 2021

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is a central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory demyelinating disease characterized by recurrent inflammatory events that primarily involve optic nerves and the spinal cord, but also affect other regions of the CNS, including hypothalamus, area postrema and periaqueductal gray matter. The aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-IgG) is specific for NMOSD. Recently, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (MOG-IgG) have been found in a group of AQP4-IgG negative patients. NMOSD is rare among children and adolescents, but early diagnosis is important to start adequate therapy. In this report, we present cases of seven pediatric patients with NMOSD and we review the clinical and neuroimaging characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of NMOSD in children.
Individual Radiosensitivity as a Risk Factor for the Radiation-Induced Acute Radiodermatitis
Authors: Kišonas Juras , Venius Jonas , Sevriukova Olga , Grybauskas Mindaugas , Dabkevičienė Daiva , Burneckis Arvydas , Rotomskis Ričardas
Published: December 2021

Background: Up to 95% of irradiated patients suffer from ionizing radiation (IR) induced early skin reaction, acute radiation dermatitis (ARD). Some experts think that additional skin hydration can reduce acute skin reactions. Individual radiosensitivity (IRS) determined from lymphocytes may help to predict acute radiation toxicity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical manifestation of ARD in different skincare groups during whole breast radiotherapy depending on IRS and other risk factors. Methods: A total of 108 early-stage breast cancer patients were randomized into best supportive care (BSC) and additional skincare (ASC) groups. IRS was evaluated using a G2 assay modified with caffeine-induced G2 checkpoint arrest. All patients received a 50 Gy dose to the breast planning target volume (PTV). Clinical assessment of ARD symptoms according to the CTCAE grading scale was performed once a week. Results: IRS was successfully determined for 91 out of 108 patients. A total of 10 patients (11%) had normal IRS, 47 patients (52%) were categorized as radiosensitive, and 34 (37%) as highly radiosensitive. There was no significant difference in the manifestation of ARD between patient groups by skincare or IRS. According to logistic regression, patients with bigger breasts were prone to more severe ARD (p = 0.002). Conclusions: The additional skincare did not improve skin condition during RT. A total of 89% of patients had increased radiosensitivity. IRS determined before RT did not show the predictive value for the manifestation of ARD. Logistic regression revealed that breast volume was the most significant risk factor for the manifestation of ARD.
The Tribological Performance of Metal-/Resin-Impregnated Graphite under Harsh Condition
Authors: Zhao Jun , Liu Yijiang , Liu Dengyu , Gu Yanfei , Zheng Rao , Ma Runmei , Li Shuangxi , Wang Yongfu , Shi Yijun
Published: December 2021

Graphite-based composites are well recognized as ideal functional materials in mechanical seals, bearings of canned pumps, and electrical contact systems because of their outstanding self-lubricating ability, thermostability, and chemical stability. Working in harsh conditions is a huge challenge for the graphite materials, and their tribological properties and wear mechanisms are not well studied. In this study, the tribological performance of metal-impregnated graphite, resin-impregnated graphite, and non-metal-impregnated graphite under high temperature and high load are studied using a ball-on-disc tribometer. The results show that the metal-impregnated graphite (Metal-IG) has a stable friction regime and exhibits better anti-friction and anti-wear properties than that of resin-impregnated graphite (Resin-IG) and non-impregnated graphite (Non-IG) under extreme pressure (200~350 MPa) and high temperature (100–350 °C). The Metal-IG and Resin-IG can reduce the wear depth by 60% and 80%, respectively, when compared with Non-IG substrate. The impregnated materials (metal or resin) can enhance the strength of the graphite matrix and improve the formation of graphite tribofilm on the counterpart surfaces. Friction-induced structural ordering of graphite and slight oxidation of metal in the formed mechanically mixed layer is also beneficial for friction and wear reduction. This study demonstrates the tribological characteristics of impregnated graphite under harsh conditions and provides the experimental basis for the advanced usage of high-reliability and self-lubrication graphite composites.
Microstructure and Mechanical Property Evaluation of Dune Sand Reactive Powder Concrete Subjected to Hot Air Curing
Authors: Ahmed Sara , Mahaini Zin , Abed Farid , Mannan Mohammad Abdul , Al-Samarai Mufid
Published: December 2021

The use of different sustainable materials in the manufacture of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is becoming increasingly common due to the unabating concerns over climate change and sustainability in the construction sector. Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is an UHPC in which traditional coarse aggregates are replaced by fine aggregates. The main purpose of this research is to produce RPC using dune sand and to study its microstructure and mechanical properties under different curing conditions of water curing and hot air curing. The effects of these factors are studied over a long-term period of 90 days. Quartz sand is completely replaced by a blend of crushed and dune sand, and cement is partially replaced by using binary blends of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and fly ash (FA), which are used alongside silica fume (SF) to make a ternary supplementary binder system. Microstructural analysis is conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and engineering properties like compressive strength and flexural strength are studied to evaluate the performance of dune sand RPC. Overall, the results affirm that the production of UHPC is possible with the use of dune sand. The compressive strength of all mixes exceeded 120 MPa after 12 h only of hot air curing (HAC). The SEM results revealed the dense microstructure of RPC. However, goethite-like structures (corrosion products) were spotted at 90 days for all HAC specimens. Additionally, the use of FA accelerated the formation of such products as compared to GGBS. The effect of these products was insignificant from a mechanical point of view. However, additional research is required to determine their effect on the durability of RPC.
Performance Comparison of Lattice-Matched AlInN/GaN/AlGaN/GaN Double-Channel Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor High-Electron Mobility Transistors with Planar Channel and Multiple-Mesa-Fin-Channel Array
Authors: Lee Hsin-Ying , Ju Ying-Hao , Chyi Jen-Inn , Lee Ching-Ting
Published: December 2021

In this work, Al0.83In0.17N/GaN/Al0.18Ga0.82N/GaN epitaxial layers used for the fabrication of double-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor high-electron mobility transistors (MOSHEMTs) were grown on silicon substrates using a metalorganic chemical vapor deposition system (MOCVD). A sheet electron density of 1.11 × 1013 cm−2 and an electron mobility of 1770 cm2/V-s were obtained. Using a vapor cooling condensation system to deposit high insulating 30-nm-thick Ga2O3 film as a gate oxide layer, double-hump transconductance behaviors with associated double-hump maximum extrinsic transconductances (gmmax) of 89.8 and 100.1 mS/mm were obtained in the double-channel planar MOSHEMTs. However, the double-channel devices with multiple-mesa-fin-channel array with a gmmax of 148.9 mS/mm exhibited single-hump transconductance behaviors owing to the better gate control capability. Moreover, the extrinsic unit gain cutoff frequency and maximum oscillation frequency of the devices with planar channel and multiple-mesa-fin-channel array were 5.7 GHz and 10.5 GHz, and 6.5 GHz and 12.6 GHz, respectively. Hooge’s coefficients of 7.50 × 10−5 and 6.25 × 10−6 were obtained for the devices with planar channel and multiple-mesa-fin-channel array operating at a frequency of 10 Hz, drain–source voltage of 1 V, and gate–source voltage of 5 V, respectively.
A Novel Recycling Route for Spent Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Pinna Eliana G. , Toro Norman , Gallegos Sandra , Rodriguez Mario H.
Published: December 2021

In this work, a recycling route for spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) was developed. For this, the recovery of the metal content in both electrodes (anode and cathode) was investigated. Based on these results, an economic analysis of this recycling process was carried out. The obtained results showed that more than 90% of the material contained in both electrodes was recycled. The dissolution with acetic acid of the metals present in the active cathodic material is thermodynamically viable and the addition of a reducing agent such as hydrogen peroxide improved the spontaneity of the reaction. Dissolutions close to 100% for Li and Co were obtained. In addition, it was determined that the synthesis of lithium and cobalt valuable compounds was viable from the leach liquor, recovering approximately 90% of Co as cobalt oxalate, and 92% of Li as lithium carbonate. Furthermore, carbon graphite and Cu were fully recovered (100%) from the anodes. Finally, the results of the economic analysis showed that the recovered products have a high commercial value and industrial interest, providing an environmentally and economically viable process.
Comprehensive Knowledge-Driven AI System for Air Classification Process
Authors: Otwinowski Henryk , Krzywanski Jaroslaw , Urbaniak Dariusz , Wylecial Tomasz , Sosnowski Marcin
Published: December 2021

Air classifier devices have a distinct advantage over other systems used to separate materials. They maximize the mill’s capacity and therefore constitute efficient methods of reducing the energy consumption of crushing and grinding operations. Since improvement in their performance is challenging, the development of an efficient modeling system is of great practical significance. The paper introduces a novel, knowledge-based classification (FLClass) system of bulk materials. A wide range of operating parameters are considered in the study: the mean mass and the Sauter mean diameter of the fed material, classifier rotor speed, working air pressure, and test conducting time. The output variables are the Sauter mean diameter and the cut size of the classification product, as well as the performance of the process. The model was successfully validated against experimental data. The maximum relative error between the measured and predicted data is lower than 9%. The presented fuzzy-logic-based approach allows an optimization study of the process to be conducted. For the considered range of input parameters, the highest performance of the classification process is equal to almost 362 g/min. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first one available in open literature dealing with the fuzzy logic approach in modeling the air classification process of bulk materials.
Flexible Ni/NiOx-Based Sensor for Human Breath Detection
Authors: Ho Le Duc-Anh , Nam Vu Binh , Lee Daeho
Published: December 2021

We developed a simple methodology to fabricate an Ni/NiOx-based flexible breath sensor by a single-step laser digital patterning process of solution-processed NiOx thin-film deposited using NiOx nanoparticle ink. Laser-induced reductive sintering phenomenon enables for the generation of three parts of Ni electrodes and two narrow NiOx-sensing channels in between, defined on a single layer on a thin flexible polymer substrate. The Ni/NiOx-based breath sensor efficiently detects human breath at a relatively low operating temperature (50 °C) with fast response/recovery times (1.4 s/1.7 s) and excellent repeatability. The mechanism of the gas-sensing ability enhancement of the sensor was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Furthermore, by decoupling of the temperature effect from the breathing gas, the response of the sensor due to the temperature alone and due to the chemical components in the breathing gas could be separately evaluated. Finally, bending and cyclic bending tests (10,000 cycles) demonstrated the superior mechanical stability of the flexible breath sensor.
Characterisation of Wood Particles Used in the Particleboard Production as a Function of Their Moisture Content
Authors: Dukarska Dorota , Rogoziński Tomasz , Antov Petar , Kristak Lubos , Kmieciak Jakub
Published: December 2021

The properties of particleboards and the course of their manufacturing process depend on the characteristics of wood particles, their degree of fineness, geometry, and moisture content. This research work aims to investigate the physical properties of wood particles used in the particleboard production in dependence on their moisture content. Two types of particles currently used in the production of three-layer particleboards, i.e., microparticles (MP) for the outer layers of particleboards and particles for the core layers (PCL), were used in the study. The particles with a moisture content of 0.55%, 3.5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, and 20% were tested for their poured bulk density (ρp), tapped bulk density (ρt), compression ratio (k), angle of repose (αR), and slippery angle of repose (αs). It was found that irrespective of the fineness of the particles, an increase in their moisture content caused an increase in the angle of repose and slippery angle of repose and an increase in poured and tapped bulk density, while for PCL, the biggest changes in bulk density occurred in the range up to 15% of moisture content, and for MP in the range above 7% of moisture content, respectively. An increase in the moisture content of PCL in the range studied results in a significant increase in the compression ratio from 47.1% to 66.7%. The compression ratio of MP increases only up to 15% of their moisture content—a change of value from 47.1% to 58.7%.