bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Trends in Motivation and Weight Loss: A Bibliometric-Based Review
Authors: Železnik Uroš , Kokol Peter , Starc Jasmina , Železnik Danica , Završnik Jernej , Vošner Helena Blažun
Published: December 2023

Obesity is a complex disease that, like COVID-19, has reached pandemic proportions. Consequently, it has become a rapidly growing scientific field, represented by an extensive body of research publications. Therefore, the aim of this study was to present the research trends in the scientific literature on motivation and weight loss. Because traditional knowledge synthesis approaches are not appropriate for analyzing large corpora of research evidence, we utilized a novel knowledge synthesis approach called synthetic knowledge synthesis (SKS) to generate new holistic insights into obesity research focusing on motivation. SKS is a triangulation of bibliometric analysis, bibliometric mapping, and content analysis. Using it, we analyzed the corpus of publications retrieved from the Scopus database, using the search string TITLE-ABS-KEY((obesity or overweight) and “weight loss” and motiv*) in titles, keywords, and abstracts, without any additional inclusion or exclusion criteria. The search resulted in a corpus of 2301 publications. The United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Australia were the most productive countries. Four themes emerged, namely, weight loss and weight-loss maintenance through motivational interventions, lifestyle changes supported by smart ICT, maintaining sustainable weight with a healthier lifestyle, and weight management on the level of primary healthcare and bariatric surgery. Further, we established that the volume of research literature is growing, as is the scope of the research. However, we observed a regional concentration of research and its funding in developed countries and almost nonexistent research cooperation between developed and less-developed countries.
Comment on Marsigliante et al. Effects on Children’s Physical and Mental Well-Being of a Physical-Activity-Based School Intervention Program: A Randomized Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20, 1927
Authors: Murden Raphiel , Agley Jon , Golzarri-Arroyo Lilian , Peña Armando , Valdez Danny , Siddique Abu Bakkar , Heo Moonseong , Allison David B.
Published: December 2023

We conducted a critical review of the article “Effects on Children’s Physical and Mental Well-Being of a Physical-Activity-Based School Intervention Program: A Randomized Study”, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2023 as part of the Special Issue “Psychomotricity and Physical Education in School Health”. We identified multiple mistakes in the statistical analyses applied. First, the authors claim to have found a statistically significant association between the proposed intervention and change in body composition (body mass index (BMI) percentiles, relative fat mass, and BMI classes) by way of exhibiting differences in nominal significance between the pre- and post-intervention changes within the control and intervention groups, instead of exhibiting a significant difference between groups. Furthermore, the analysis described fails to account for clustering and nesting in the data. The reporting of the statistical methods and results include multiple elements that are variously incorrect, incoherent, or impossible. Revised statistical analyses are proposed which can render the study’s methods valid and its results substantiated, whereas the current methods and results are invalid and unsubstantiated, respectively.
The Association of Insomnia and Stress on Cardiovascular Risk Factors during COVID-19 Confinement in the Mexican Population
Authors: Urriza-Trejo Sergio , Hurtazo Héctor , Palacios Jorge , Cruz-Soto Martha
Published: December 2023

During the pandemic confinement, the WHO changed the term “social distancing” to “physical distancing”, to help people deal with the lack of social contact. As a result, there was an increase in mental health problems, including insomnia and stress, with a negative impact on cardiovascular health. The objective of this research was to identify the association between insomnia and stress and cardiovascular risk (CVR) during the pandemic in a sample of the general population in Mexico; the participants were chosen using the non-probabilistic method. The data were obtained from an online questionnaire about medical histories focused on cardiovascular risk, according to the Official Mexican Standards and Regulations for patients’ clinical records, NOM-004-SSA3-2012, along with an index for the severity of insomnia, measured with a seven-item guide, and an instrument to measure stress. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics for several different variables: sociodemographics, stress, insomnia, and cardiovascular risk. Cardiovascular risk was compared to insomnia and stress variables, which led to statistically significant differences and correlations between the variables. Participants were divided into four groups with respect to CVR, from low to very high CVR. This research demonstrated that women were more susceptible to stress and cardiovascular risk. However, stress was a more major indicator of CVR than insomnia, but in the high and very high CVR groups, insomnia contributed along with stress; coping strategies reduced the risk in the high CVR group but did not function as expected with respect to reducing risk in the very high CVR group. These findings suggest that sleep patterns and mental health alterations present during the pandemic may persist even when the pandemic was declared as having ended and may contribute to increases in cardiovascular risk in the long-term.
Studying Differing Impacts of Various Monetary Aggregates on the Real Economy
Authors: Ionescu Romeo Victor , Fortea Costinela , Zlati Monica Laura , Antohi Valentin Marian
Published: December 2023

Since we are living in a time of multiple crises and geopolitical unrest, it is important to look at how monetary aggregates affect the real economy. This will help us figure out how uncertainty affects the economy and come up with more stable financial and monetary policy measures, especially for EU member states that are not in the euro area. This study aims to determine a dynamic structured monetary policy model, using information from the literature and the study of the evolution of financial elements of macroeconomic aggregates in a non-euro area Member State (Romania). The methods consist of an empirical study of causality in the monetary aggregates in the literature and an analytical approach to the consolidation of dynamic databases over a period of 16 years (2007–2022) and its statistical modeling. This research will examine the impact of uncertainty on Romania’s monetary policy over the period and how this uncertainty alters the dependence relationships between monetary policy indicators and derivatives of the GDP deflator. The results of the two-step modeling, respectively, for the periods 2007–2019 and 2007–2022, will highlight via a comparison the vulnerabilities induced by periods of uncertainty and pandemics on the evolution of monetary policy indicators and will be useful to financial decision makers in correcting monetary policy elements based on the vulnerability picture instrumented as a result of analysis and modeling. The novelty of this study lies in the multidisciplinary and dynamic approach to the evolution of monetary policy indicators and the construction of the dynamic structured model, which is a useful tool for assessing the vulnerability status of a EU Member State economy outside the euro area under uncertainty.
Upregulation in Inflammation and Collagen Expression in Perirenal but Not in Mesenteric Adipose Tissue from Diabetic Munich Wistar Frömter Rats
Authors: Vega-Martín Elena , González-Moreno Daniel , Sanz-Gómez Marta , Guzmán-Aguayo Ana Karen , Manzano-Lista Francisco Javier , Schulz Angela , Aránguez Isabel , Kreutz Reinhold , Fernández-Alfonso María S.
Published: December 2023

Perirenal adipose tissue (PRAT) surrounding the kidney is emerging as a player and novel independent risk factor in diabetic kidney disease (DKD); DKD is a complication of diabetes and is a major cause of increased cardiovascular (CV) risk and CV mortality in affected patients. We determined the effect of diabetes induction on (i) kidney and CV damage and (ii) on the expression of proinflammatory and profibrotic factors in both the PRAT and the mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT) of Munich Wistar Frömter (MWF) rats. The 16-week-old male MWF rats (n = 10 rats/group) were fed standard chow (MWF-C) or a high-fat/high-sucrose diet for 6 weeks together with low-dose streptozotocin (15 mg/kg i.p.) at the start of dietary exposure (MWF-D). Phenotyping was performed at the end of treatment through determining water intake, urine excretion, and oral glucose tolerance; use of the homeostatic model assessment–insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) evidenced the development of overt diabetes manifestation in MWF-D rats. The kidney damage markers Kim-1 and Ngal were significantly higher in MWF-D rats, as were the amounts of PRAT and MAT. A diabetes-induced upregulation in IL-1, IL-6, Tnf-α, and Tgf-β was observed in both the PRAT and the MAT. Col1A1 was increased in the PRAT but not in the MAT of MWF-D, whereas IL-10 was lower and higher in the PRAT and the MAT, respectively. Urinary albumin excretion and blood pressure were not further increased by diabetes induction, while heart weight was higher in the MWF-D. In conclusion, our results show a proinflammatory and profibrotic in vivo environment in PRAT induced by diabetes which might be associated with kidney damage progression in the MWF strain.
The Effect of Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 on the Energy Metabolism of Hepatocytes: Multiphoton Microscopy and Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
Authors: Rodimova Svetlana , Bobrov Nikolai , Mozherov Artem , Elagin Vadim , Karabut Maria , Ermakova Polina , Shchechkin Ilya , Kozlov Dmitry , Krylov Dmitry , Gavrina Alena , Kashina Aleksandra , Zagainov Vladimir , Zagaynova Elena , Kuznetsova Daria
Published: December 2023

A decrease in the regenerative potential of the liver during the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is observed in the vast majority of patients with diabetes mellitus type 1, significantly increases the risk of postoperative liver failure. In this regard, it is necessary to develop new approaches for the rapid intraoperative assessment of the condition of liver tissue in the presence of concomitant liver pathology. A modern label-free approach based on multiphoton microscopy, second harmonic generation (SHG), and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) allow for the evaluation of the structure of liver tissue as well as the assessment of the metabolic state of hepatocytes, even at the cellular level. We obtained optical criteria and identified specific changes in the metabolic state of hepatocytes for a reduced liver regenerative potential in the presence of induced diabetes mellitus type 1. The obtained criteria will expand the possibilities for the express assessment of the structural and functional state of liver tissue in clinical practice.
Zebrafish as an Emerging Model for Sarcopenia: Considerations, Current Insights, and Future Directions
Authors: Callegari Santiago , Mirzaei Foad , Agbaria Lila , Shariff Sanobar , Kantawala Burhan , Moronge Desmond , Ogendi Brian M. O.
Published: December 2023

Sarcopenia poses a significant challenge to public health and can severely impact the quality of life of aging populations. Despite extensive efforts to study muscle degeneration using traditional animal models, there is still a lack of effective diagnostic tools, precise biomarkers, and treatments for sarcopenia. Zebrafish models have emerged as powerful tools in biomedical research, providing unique insights into age-related muscle disorders like sarcopenia. The advantages of using zebrafish models include their rapid growth outside of the embryo, optical transparency during early developmental stages, high reproductive potential, ease of husbandry, compact size, and genetic tractability. By deepening our understanding of the molecular processes underlying sarcopenia, we may develop novel diagnostic tools and effective treatments that can improve the lives of aging individuals affected by this condition. This review aims to explore the unique advantages of zebrafish as a model for sarcopenia research, highlight recent breakthroughs, outline potential avenues for future investigations, and emphasize the distinctive contributions that zebrafish models offer. Our research endeavors to contribute significantly to address the urgent need for practical solutions to reduce the impact of sarcopenia on aging populations, ultimately striving to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
Hereditary Spherocytosis: Can Next-Generation Sequencing of the Five Most Frequently Affected Genes Replace Time-Consuming Functional Investigations?
Authors: Häuser Friederike , Rossmann Heidi , Adenaeuer Anke , Shrestha Annette , Marandiuc Dana , Paret Claudia , Faber Jörg , Lackner Karl J. , Lämmle Bernhard , Beck Olaf
Published: December 2023

Congenital defects of the erythrocyte membrane are common in northern Europe and all over the world. The resulting diseases, for example, hereditary spherocytosis (HS), are often underdiagnosed, partly due to their sometimes mild and asymptomatic courses. In addition to a broad clinical spectrum, this is also due to the occasionally complex diagnostics that are not available to every patient. To test whether next-generation sequencing (NGS) could replace time-consuming spherocytosis-specific functional tests, 22 consecutive patients with suspected red cell membranopathy underwent functional blood tests. We were able to identify the causative genetic defect in all patients with suspected HS who underwent genetic testing (n = 17). The sensitivity of the NGS approach, which tests five genes (ANK1 (gene product: ankyrin1), EPB42 (erythrocyte membrane protein band4.2), SLC4A1 (band3), SPTA1 (α-spectrin), and SPTB (β-spectrin)), was 100% (95% confidence interval: 81.5–100.0%). The major advantage of genetic testing in the paediatric setting is the small amount of blood required (<200 µL), and compared to functional assays, sample stability is not an issue. The combination of medical history, basic laboratory parameters, and an NGS panel with five genes is sufficient for diagnosis in most cases. Only in rare cases, a more comprehensive functional screening is required.
Mechanism of Cs Immobilization within a Sodalite Framework: The Role of Alkaline Cations and the Si/Al Ratio
Authors: Kasprzhitskii Anton , Ermolov Yakov , Mischinenko Vasilii , Vasilchenko Andrey , Yatsenko Elena A. , Smoliy Victoria A.
Published: December 2023

Conditioning of radioactive waste generated from the operation of medical institutions, nuclear cycle facilities, and nuclear facilities is important for the safety of the environment. One of the most hazardous radionuclides is radioactive cesium. There is a need for more effective solutions to contain radionuclides, especially cesium (Cs+). Geopolymers are promising inorganic materials that can provide a large active surface area with adjustable porosity and binding capacity. The existence of nanosized zeolite-like structures in aluminosilicate gels was shown earlier. These structures are candidates for immobilizing radioactive cesium (Cs+). However, the mechanisms of their interactions with the aluminosilicate framework related to radionuclide immobilization have not been well studied. In this work, the influence of alkaline cations (Na+ or K+) and the aluminosilicate framework structure on the binding capacity and mechanism of interaction of geopolymers with Cs+ is explored in the example of a sodalite framework. The local structure of the water molecules and alkaline ions in the equilibrium state and its behavior when the Si/Al ratio was changed were studied by DFT.
Metabolome Profiling of Marrubium peregrinum L. and Marrubium friwaldskyanum Boiss Reveals Their Potential as Sources of Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Gyuzeleva Donika , Benina Maria , Ivanova Valentina , Vatov Emil , Alseekh Saleh , Mladenova Tsvetelina , Mladenov Rumen , Todorov Krasimir , Bivolarska Anelia , Stoyanov Plamen
Published: December 2023

Marrubium species have been used since ancient times as food additives and curative treatments. Their phytochemical composition and various pharmacological activities were the focus of a number of scientific investigations but no comprehensive metabolome profiling to identify the numerous primary and secondary metabolites has been performed so far. This study aimed to generate a comprehensive picture of the total metabolite content of two Marrubium species—M. peregrinum and M. friwaldskyanum—to provide detailed information about the main primary and secondary metabolites. In addition, the elemental composition was also evaluated. For this purpose, non-targeted metabolomic analyses were conducted using GC-MS, UPLC-MS/MS and ICP-MS approaches. Nearly 500 compounds and 12 elements were detected and described. The results showed a strong presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids and their glucosides, which are generally of great interest due to their various pharmacological activities. Furthermore, tissue-specific analyses for M. friwaldskyanum stem, leaves and flowers were carried out in order to outline the sources of potentially important bioactive molecules. The results generated from this study depict the Marrubium metabolome and reveal its dual scientific importance—from one side, providing information about the metabolites that is fundamental and vital for the survival of these species, and from the other side, defining the large diversity of secondary substances that are a potential source of phytotherapeutic agents.
Overexpression of an ART1-Interacting Gene OsNAC016 Improves Al Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Liu Fuhang , Ma Dan , Yu Jinyu , Meng Ran , Wang Zhigang , Zhang Baolei , Chen Xingxiang , Zhang Lin , Peng Liyun , Xia Jixing
Published: December 2023

Rice (Oryza sativa) exhibits tremendous aluminum (Al)-tolerance. The C2H2-transcription factor (TF) ART1 critically regulates rice Al tolerance via modulation of specific gene expression. However, little is known about the posttranscriptional ART1 regulation. Here, we identified an ART1-interacted gene OsNAC016 via a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) assay. OsNAC016 was primarily expressed in roots and weakly induced by Al. Immunostaining showed that OsNAC016 was a nuclear protein and localized in all root cells. Knockout of OsNAC016 did not alter Al sensitivity. Overexpression of OsNAC016 resulted in less Al aggregation within roots and enhanced Al tolerance in rice. Based on transcriptomic and qRT-PCR evaluations, certain cell-wall-related or ART-regulated gene expressions such as OsMYB30 and OsFRDL4 were altered in OsNAC016-overexpressing plants. These results indicated that OsNAC016 interacts with ART1 to cooperatively regulate some Al-tolerance genes and is a critical regulatory factor in rice Al tolerance.
Vitamin A, D, E, and K as Matrix Metalloproteinase-2/9 Regulators That Affect Expression and Enzymatic Activity
Authors: Vo Ha Vy Thi , Nguyen Yen Thi , Kim Namdoo , Lee Hyuck Jin
Published: December 2023

Fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin A, D, E, and K) assume a pivotal role in maintaining human homeostasis by virtue of their enzymatic functions. The daily inclusion of these vitamins is imperative to the upkeep of various physiological processes including vision, bone health, immunity, and protection against oxidative stress. Current research highlights fat-soluble vitamins as potential therapeutics for human diseases, especially cancer. Fat-soluble vitamins exert their therapeutic effects through multiple pathways, including regulation of matrix metalloproteinases’ (MMPs) expression and enzymatic activity. As MMPs have been reported to be involved in the pathology of various diseases, such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders, regulating the expression and/or activity of MMPs could be considered as a potent therapeutic strategy. Here, we summarize the properties of fat-soluble vitamins and their potential as promising candidates capable of effectively modulating MMPs through multiple pathways to treat human diseases.
Dual Effects of 3-epi-betulin from Daphniphyllum glaucescens in Suppressing SARS-CoV-2-Induced Inflammation and Inhibiting Virus Entry
Authors: Yeh Yung-Ju , Chao Tai-Ling , Chang Yu-Jen , Chang Sui-Yuan , Lu Chih-Hao , Chao Chih-Hua , Su Wen-Chi , Tseng Ching-Ping , Lai Michael M.C. , Cheng Ju-Chien
Published: December 2023

The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has led to a protracted global COVID-19 pandemic with significant impacts on public health and global economy. While there are currently available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and therapeutics, most of the FDA-approved antiviral agents directly target viral proteins. However, inflammation is the initial immune pathogenesis induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection, there is still a need to find additional agents that can control the virus in the early stages of infection to alleviate disease progression for the next pandemic. Here, we find that both the spike protein and its receptor CD147 are crucial for inducing inflammation by SARS-CoV-2 in THP-1 monocytic cells. Moreover, we find that 3-epi-betulin, isolated from Daphniphyllum glaucescens, reduces the level of proinflammatory cytokines induced by SARS-CoV-2, consequently resulting in a decreased viral RNA accumulation and plaque formation. In addition, 3-epi-betulin displays a broad-spectrum inhibition of entry of SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses, including Alpha (B.1.1.7), Eplison (B.1.429), Gamma (P1), Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (BA.1). Moreover, 3-epi-betulin potently inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection with an EC50 of <20 μM in Calu-3 lung epithelial cells. Bioinformatic analysis reveals the chemical interaction between the 3-epi-betulin and the spike protein, along with the critical amino acid residues in the spike protein that contribute to the inhibitory activity of 3-epi-betulin against virus entry. Taken together, our results suggest that 3-epi-betulin exhibits dual effect: it reduces SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation and inhibits virus entry, positioning it as a potential antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2.
Interactions of Neutrophils with the Polymeric Molecular Components of the Biofilm Matrix in the Context of Implant-Associated Bone and Joint Infections
Authors: Campoccia Davide , Ravaioli Stefano , Mirzaei Rasoul , Bua Gloria , Daglia Maria , Arciola Carla Renata
Published: December 2023

In the presence of orthopedic implants, opportunistic pathogens can easily colonize the biomaterial surfaces, forming protective biofilms. Life in biofilm is a central pathogenetic mechanism enabling bacteria to elude the host immune response and survive conventional medical treatments. The formation of mature biofilms is universally recognized as the main cause of septic prosthetic failures. Neutrophils are the first leukocytes to be recruited at the site of infection. They are highly efficient in detecting and killing planktonic bacteria. However, the interactions of these fundamental effector cells of the immune system with the biofilm matrix, which is the true interface of a biofilm with the host cells, have only recently started to be unveiled and are still to be fully understood. Biofilm matrix macromolecules consist of exopolysaccharides, proteins, lipids, teichoic acids, and the most recently described extracellular DNA. The latter can also be stolen from neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) by bacteria, who use it to strengthen their biofilms. This paper aims to review the specific interactions that neutrophils develop when they physically encounter the matrix of a biofilm and come to interact with its polymeric molecular components.
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects after Exposure to Ionizing Radiation and Visible Light on Retina and Retinal Pigment Epithelium of Mouse Eye
Authors: Feldman Tatiana , Yakovleva Marina , Utina Dina , Ostrovsky Mikhail
Published: December 2023

A comparative in vivo study of the effects of ionizing radiation (accelerated protons) and visible light (400–700 nm) on the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) of the mouse eye was carried out. Using the methods of fluorescence spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), we analyzed the relative composition of retinoids in chloroform extracts obtained from the retinas and RPEs immediately after exposure of animals to various types of radiation and 4.5 months after they were exposed and maintained under standard conditions throughout the period. The fluorescent properties of chloroform extracts were shown to change upon exposure to various types of radiation. This fact indicates the accumulation of retinoid oxidation and degradation products in the retina and RPE. The data from fluorescence and HPLC analyses of retinoids indicate that when exposed to ionizing radiation, retinoid oxidation processes similar to photooxidation occur. Both ionizing radiation and high-intensity visible light have been shown to be characterized by long-term effects. The action of any type of radiation is assumed to activate the mechanism of enhanced reactive oxygen species production, resulting in a long-term damaging effect.
Using Brassica Cover Crops as Living Mulch in a Vineyard, Changes over One Growing Season
Authors: O’Farrell Corynne , Forge Tom , Hart Miranda M.
Published: December 2023

Farmers hoping to manage cropping systems sustainably are turning to cover crops to help mitigate plant pathogens. Plants with biofumigant properties are used to control soil-borne pathogens in agricultural settings, especially in till systems, where the brassicas are incorporated into the soil as green manure or seed meal. The effect of these crops is not well studied in no-till systems; thus, it is hard to know if they are as effective as green manure. Whether or not these cover crops can effect changes during a single growth season has not yet been studied. This study compared the response of the soil microbial community to four different brassica cover crops, two of which are commonly used in vineyards (Sinapis alba L. (white mustard) and Raphanus sativus (L.) Domin (tillage radish)) as well as two brassicas that are native or naturalized to the Okanagan (Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik. (Shepherd’s purse) and Boechera holboelli (Hornem.) Á. Löve and D. Löve (Holbøll’s rockcress)). Cover crops did not affect fungal species richness, but B. holboelli recover crops were associated with increased evenness among fungal taxa. Both C. bursa-pastoris and S. alba had lower levels of plant parasitic nematodes compared to non-brassica controls. These results were apparent only after a single growing season, which indicates growers could use this approach as needed, minimizing long-term exposure to biofumigants for beneficial soil microbes.
Salt Tolerance and Ion Accumulation in Several Halophytic Plant Species Depending on the Type of Anion
Authors: Jēkabsone Astra , Kuļika Jekaterina , Romanovs Māris , Andersone-Ozola Una , Ievinsh Gederts
Published: December 2023

The question of the effect of the anion type on halophyte salt tolerance and ion accumulation is still far from the necessary generalization due to the lack of comparative studies. The aim of the present study was to compare the relatively long-term effect of treatment with various salts formed by different anions on the growth and ion accumulation of several halophyte species in controlled conditions. The main experiments with the largest variety of individual salt types were performed with Cochlearia officinalis L. and two cultivars of Limonium sinuatum (L.) Mill. In addition, experiments with Lobularia maritima (L.) Desv., Plantago maritima L., and Tripolium pannonicum (Jacq.) Dobrocz. focused on the comparison of neutral (NaCl) and alkaline (NaHCO3) salts as well as NaNO3. Acetate salts appeared to be the most toxic, with only Plantago and Tripolium plants being able to withstand full treatment while having a pronounced inhibition in growth. Only the two Limonium cultivars were more susceptible to treatment with alkaline salts in comparison to that with neutral salts. In treatments with alkaline salts, the ion accumulation potential was lower in comparison to plants treated with chlorides and nitrates. It can be concluded that the type of anion is a significant determinant of salinity tolerance and ion accumulation in halophytes, but a high genotype dependence of the responses makes it difficult to generalize the obtained results.
Efficient and Expressive Search Scheme over Encrypted Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Yang Xiaopei , Zhang Yu , Wang Yifan , Li Yin
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there has been rapid development in computer technology, leading to an increasing number of medical systems utilizing electronic medical records (EMRs) to store their clinical data. Because EMRs are very private, healthcare institutions usually encrypt these data before transferring them to cloud servers. A technique known as searchable encryption (SE) can be used by healthcare institutions to encrypt EMR data. This technique enables searching within the encrypted data without the need for decryption. However, most existing SE schemes only support keyword or range searches, which are highly inadequate for EMR data as they contain both textual and digital content. To address this issue, we have developed a novel searchable symmetric encryption scheme called SSE-RK, which is specifically designed to support both range and keyword searches, and it is easily applicable to EMR data. We accomplish this by creating a conversion technique that turns keywords and ranges into vectors. These vectors are then used to construct index tree building and search algorithms that enable simultaneous range and keyword searches. We encrypt the index tree using a secure K-Nearest Neighbor technique, which results in an effective SSE-RK approach with a search complexity that is quicker than a linear approach. Theoretical and experimental study further demonstrates that our proposed scheme surpasses previous similar schemes in terms of efficiency. Formal security analysis demonstrates that SSE-RK protects privacy for both data and queries during the search process. Consequently, it holds significant potential for a wide range of applications in EMR data. Overall, our SSE-RK scheme, which offers improved functionality and efficiency while protecting the privacy of EMR data, generally solves the shortcomings of the current SE schemes.
Crystallographic Structure and Quantum-Chemical Analysis of Biologically Active Co(III)-Pyridoxal–Isothiosemicarbazone Complex
Authors: Abdulaziz Fahad , Alabbosh Khulood Fahad , Alshammari Odeh Abdullah Odeh , Tuwalah Wasan Mohammed Bin , Alanazi Tahani Y. A. , Rakić Aleksandra , Barić Miljan , Marković Milica , Jevtovic Violeta , Dimić Dušan
Published: December 2023

Semicarbazones and their transition metal complexes have been investigated as biologically active compounds. This study explores the synthesis, X-ray crystallographic structure, and characterization of a novel Co(III) complex cation with a pyridoxal-isothiosemicarbazone (PLITSC) ligand, [Co(PLITSC-2H)(NH3)3]+. The structure of the complex was further elucidated by the elemental analysis and spectroscopic techniques (IR and UV–VIS). Hirshfeld surface analysis was applied for the investigation of intermolecular interactions governing crystal structure. Optimization was performed at the B3LYP/6-31 + G(d,p)(H,C,N,O,S)/LanL2DZ(Co) level of theory without any geometrical constraints. The selected level of theory’s applicability was proven after comparing experimental and theoretical bond lengths and angles. The antibacterial activity of the complex towards E. coli and B. subtilis was determined and qualified as moderate compared to Streptomycin. The formation of free radical species in the presence of the complex was further verified in the fluorescence microscopy measurements. The molecular docking towards neural nitric-oxide synthase in the brain has shown that the complex structure and relative distribution of ligands were responsible for the binding to amino acids in the active pocket.
A Computational Chemistry Investigation of the Influence of Steric Bulk of Dithiocarbamato-Bound Organic Substituents upon Spodium Bonding in Three Homoleptic Mercury(II) Bis(N,N-dialkyldithiocarbamato) Compounds for Alkyl = Ethyl, Isobutyl, and Cyclohexyl
Authors: Gomila Rosa M. , Tiekink Edward R. T. , Frontera Antonio
Published: December 2023

Three homoleptic Hg(S2CNR2)2, for R = ethyl (1), isobutyl (2), and cyclohexyl (3), compounds apparently exhibit a steric-dependent supramolecular association in their crystals. The small group in 1 allows for dimer formation via covalent Hg–S interactions through an eight-membered {–HgSCS}2 ring as the dithiocarbamato ligands bridge centrosymmetrically related Hg atoms; intradimer Hg···S interactions are noted. By contrast, centrosymmetrically related molecules in 2 are aligned to enable intermolecular Hg···S interactions, but the separations greatly exceed the van der Waals radii. The large group in 3 precludes both dimerization and intermolecular Hg···S interactions. Computational chemistry indicates that the potential region at the Hg atom is highly dependent on the coordination geometry about the Hg atom. Intramolecular (1) and intermolecular (2) spodium bonding (SpB) is demonstrated. Even at separations approaching 0.4 Å beyond the sum of the assumed van der Waals radii, the energy of the stabilization afforded by the structure directs SpB in 2 amounts to approximately 2.5 kcal/mol. A natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis points to the importance of the LP(S) → σ*(Hg–S) charge transfer and to the dominance of the dispersion forces and electron correlation to the SpB in 2.
Lipid Profile in Olympic Athletes: Proposal for a “Lipid Athlete Score” as a Clinical Tool to Identify High-Risk Athletes
Authors: Di Gioia Giuseppe , Buzzelli Lorenzo , Maestrini Viviana , Nenna Antonio , Monosilio Sara , Squeo Maria Rosaria , Lemme Erika , Pelliccia Antonio
Published: December 2023

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. Identification of dyslipidemia in athletes has raised interest in establishing preventive strategies and reducing cardiovascular (CV) events. Nowadays, targets or “scores” for athletes are undefined. The aim of our study was to create a “Lipid Athlete Score” based on lipid parameters and derive score indexes to identify high-risk athletes. We retrospectively enrolled 957 Olympic athletes practicing different sporting disciplines (power, skills, endurance, and mixed), analyzing their CV profiles and anthropometrics; 55.4% were male, the mean age was 27.1 ± 5 years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.1 ± 3.2 kg/m2. Three hundred and forty-three athletes (35.8%) were dyslipidemic (LDL ≥ 115 mg/dL or LDL/HDL ≥ 1.90). Multivariate analysis revealed the following: male p = 0.001, OR 1.88 [0.41–2.51], familiarity for dyslipidemia p = 0.001, OR 2.82 [1.72–4.59], BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 p = 0.001, OR 2.53 [1.46–4.38], and fat mass p = 0.001, OR 2.29 [1.38–3.80] were significant. Endurance athletes presented the lowest CV risk. We proposed a lipid athlete score including major (LDL ≥ 115 mg/dL and LDL/HDL ≥ 1.90) and minor criteria (male, BMI > 30 kg/m2 or fat mass >22% for males and 32% for females, familiarity for dyslipidemia, and conventional CV risk factors). Twelve athletes (1.2%) were at high risk, 150 athletes (15.7%) at medium risk, 171 athletes (17.9%) at low risk, and 624 (65.2%) were at no risk. Dyslipidemia is very common in elite athletes. We have defined a specific lipid athlete score based on lipid parameters and derived score indexes for the stratification of risk. In accordance with this tool, a substantial proportion of athletes (16.9%) were at medium-to-high risk and need early preventive strategies to improve their lipid profiles and reduce the future development of atherosclerotic CV diseases.
A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis on the Effect of Different Anticoagulants on the Prophylaxis of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome after Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Shao Jingbo , Zhou Qianwen , Jin Fukang , Reissfelder Christoph , Sigl Martin , Yagublu Vugar , Keese Michael
Published: December 2023

Background: Postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) has a major impact on the quality of life after deep venous thrombosis (DVT). From clinical practice and related trials, anticoagulants show potential for reducing the occurrence and alleviating the symptoms of PTS. Methods: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) were conducted by combing the literature from the databases of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Libraries, and ClinicalTrials, through a variety of medical subject headings (Mesh) and PTS keywords. With regard to PTS prophylaxis, all anticoagulant-related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies were assessed. The network model was conducted through the R software, and further comparisons were conducted using the Bayesian hierarchical random effects model. The odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% CI were calculated for analysis. Results: Data from two RCTs and nine non-randomized studies meeting the selection criteria were included in the Bayesian analysis model, which incorporated seven anticoagulants. Edoxaban (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.18–1.0) and rivaroxaban (OR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.38–0.76) were significantly more effective than warfarin in the prevention of PTS (Villalta score ≥ 5). A subgroup analysis based on the severity of PTS showed that rivaroxaban was more effective than warfarin, with OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41–0.84 (Villalta score 5 to 14) and OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.22–0.9 (Villalta score ≥ 15, ulceration), respectively. Edoxaban had the highest probability (80.1%) of providing preventive benefits for PTS. For mild/moderate and severe PTS, rivaroxaban provided the highest benefits in preventing PTS (89.3% and 85.6%, respectively). Conclusion: Edoxaban demonstrated a better prophylactic effect on PTS (Villalta score > 5), while rivaroxaban displayed a better effect against mild/moderate (Villalta score 5 to 14) and severe PTS (Villalta score ≥ 15, ulceration).
Effect of Repeated Greater Occipital Nerve Block in Patients with Ocular Neuropathic Pain: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Lee Jonghwan , Park Woochan , Choi Jinyoung , Lee Geonho , Ma Seokhyun , Lee Seungcheol , Park Sangyoong
Published: December 2023

Ocular neuropathic pain (ONP) has various etiologies, and patients have various symptoms. The clinical management of patients with ONP has been debated. We aimed to evaluate the effect of repeated greater occipital nerve block (GONB) on ONP based on convergence in the trigeminocervical complex. In this single-center retrospective study, the medical records of 204 patients who were referred to the pain clinic by the ophthalmology department of our hospital and subsequently underwent repeated GONB for chronic ONP between January 2008 and February 2022 were analyzed. They received GONB every two weeks, up to 10 times. Symptoms of ONP were divided into five categories: eye pain, dysesthesias/allodynia, non-eye pain, visual disturbance, and tearing. The primary outcome of this study was the pain relief scale (PRS) score after repeated injections. The differences and magnitude of decrease in the overall pain relief scale score were statistically significant (estimate = −0.55, p < 0.001). There were two patients who had recurrence of ONP and seven patients who had adverse events. According to our study, repeated GONB can reduce symptom severity in patients with ONP. Therefore, it appears that GONB can be considered a multimodal management method for ONP.
Prognostic Value of Holter Monitoring in Light Chain Amyloidosis
Authors: Sun Yutong , Zhao Qinghao , Liu Yang , Wen Lei , Dou Xuelin , Lu Jin , Liu Jian
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: To evaluate the predictive value of Holter monitoring for overall survival (OS) of patients with light chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis). (2) Methods: 137 patients with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis who underwent Holter monitoring within 6 months of diagnosis were included. The primary outcome was OS. Landmark analysis was conducted at one-year follow-up. Independent predictors were determined using the log-rank test and multivariate Cox regression analysis. (3) Results: 131 (95.6%) patients received non-transplant therapy, and 32 (23.4%) underwent daratumumab-based chemotherapy. After a median follow-up of 20.3 months, 47 deaths occurred. Atrial tachycardia (AT), conduction delay, and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) were associated with poor OS one year beyond diagnosis in univariate analyses (patients with vs. without AT: 57.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 47.2–67.4] vs. 81.0% (95% CI: 74.8–87.2), p = 0.039; patients with vs. without NSVT: 33.3% (95% CI: 8.5–58.1) vs. 75.3% (95% CI: 69.8–80.8), p = 0.024; patients with vs. without conduction delay: 41.7% (95% CI: 24.4–59.0) vs. 75.4% (95% CI: 69.7–81.1), p = 0.003]. AT [hazard ratio (HR): 2.6; 95% CI: 1.0–6.5; p = 0.049) and conduction delay (HR: 4.3; 95% CI: 1.3–14.3; p = 0.016) were independent predictors of OS after accounting for age and 2012 Mayo stage. (4) Conclusion: AT and conduction delay in Holter monitoring are independent predictors of poor OS one year beyond diagnosis in AL amyloidosis.
Exploring Facial Thermography Patterns in Women with Chronic Migraine
Authors: Fracasso Bruno Veloso , Castro Renato Bender , Brioschi Marcos Leal , Malysz Taís
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Chronic migraine is a debilitating neurological condition affecting millions worldwide. This study delves into the facial point-of-care (POC) thermographic patterns of women with chronic migraine, aiming to shed light on the condition’s pathophysiology and diagnostic potential. (2) Methods: Using infrared POC thermography, the facial temperature distribution of 24 female participants with chronic migraine were analyzed. (3) Results: The findings revealed significant temperature asymmetry in women with right-sided unilateral headaches, particularly in the right frontal and temporal regions. Notably, individuals with bilateral pain did not exhibit thermal pattern differences, suggesting potential diagnostic complexities. While these results offer valuable insights, further research with larger samples is warranted (4) Conclusions: Facial thermography holds promise as an adjunctive tool for migraine diagnosis and understanding its neurophysiological basis; however, cautious interpretation is advised, given the need for validation and expanded investigations. Improved diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies may emerge from this ongoing exploration, ultimately enhancing the quality of life of chronic migraine sufferers.
Immediate Loading of Zygomatic Implants Using a Dual Scan Technique
Authors: Gseibat Mustafa , Sorrentino Valerio , Sevilla Pablo , Peláez Jesús , Suarez Maria J.
Published: December 2023

The immediate loading protocol has become increasingly popular due to the progressive growth in demand for a reduction in treatment times. The possibility of applying this protocol would depend on certain important factors. The application of the digital workflow mentioned in the protocol guarantees rapidity, precision, and esthetics. This report aims to describe a fully digital workflow using a dual scan impression technique to fabricate immediate fixed complete dentures (FCDs) for zygomatic and standard implants. A 58-year-old female patient requested treatment for her severely atrophic maxilla, and four unrehabilitated implants in the mandible. After proper diagnosis and planification, four zygomatic implants and two standard implants were placed. During the surgery, transmucosal abutments were placed on all implants. After suturing, the positions of the implants were recorded using a stereophotogrammetric technique, creating a standard tessellation (STL) file. In the lower arch, the second phase of the surgery was carried out: the transmucosal abutments were placed, and then the implant positions were recorded in the same way. The soft tissues were rescanned after suturing with an intraoral scanner (IOS), and all STL files were aligned to obtain the virtual final models. The pre-design after virtual modifications was aligned with the definitive models. The provisional prostheses were milled and placed after six hours after the surgery, and the definitive prostheses were placed six months after the surgery. The dual scan technique used obtained a precise fit for both the provisional and definitive FCDs. This technique might be an effective and reliable alternative for the fabrication of immediate and definitive screw-retained FCDs in a completely digital workflow. The time taken for scanning and fabrication was reduced, and the clinician’s and patient’s satisfaction were improved.
Introduction of Deep Learning-Based Infrared Image Analysis to Marginal Reflex Distance1 Measurement Method to Simultaneously Capture Images and Compute Results: Clinical Validation Study
Authors: Song Bokeun , Kwon Hyeokjae , Kim Sunje , Ha Yooseok , Oh Sang-Ha , Song Seung-Han
Published: December 2023

Marginal reflex distance1 (MRD1) is a crucial clinical tool used to evaluate the position of the eyelid margin in relation to the cornea. Traditionally, this assessment has been conducted manually by plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, or trained technicians. However, with the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, there is a growing interest in the development of automated systems capable of accurately measuring MRD1. In this context, we introduce novel MRD1 measurement methods based on deep learning algorithms that can simultaneously capture images and compute the results. This prospective observational study involved 154 eyes of 77 patients aged over 18 years who visited Chungnam National University Hospital between 1 January 2023 and 29 July 2023. We collected four different MRD1 datasets from patients using three distinct measurement methods, each tailored to the individual patient. The mean MRD1 values, measured through the manual method using a penlight, the deep learning method, ImageJ analysis from RGB eye images, and ImageJ analysis from IR eye images in 56 eyes of 28 patients, were 2.64 ± 1.04 mm, 2.85 ± 1.07 mm, 2.78 ± 1.08 mm, and 3.07 ± 0.95 mm, respectively. Notably, the strongest agreement was observed between MRD1_deep learning (DL) and MRD1_IR (0.822, p < 0.01). In a Bland–Altman plot, the smallest difference was observed between MRD1_DL and MRD1_IR ImageJ, with a mean difference of 0.0611 and ΔLOA (limits of agreement) of 2.5162, which was the smallest among all of the groups. In conclusion, this novel MRD1 measurement method, based on an IR camera and deep learning, demonstrates statistical significance and can be readily applied in clinical settings.