bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Destructive Detection of Cerasus Humilis Fruit Quality by Hyperspectral Imaging Combined with Chemometric Method
Authors: Wang Bin , Yang Hua , Li Lili , Zhang Shujuan
Published: May 2024

Cerasus Humilis fruit is susceptible to rapid color changes post-harvest, which degrades its quality. This research utilized hyperspectral imaging technology to detect and visually analyze the soluble solid content (SSC) and firmness of the fruit, aiming to improve quality and achieve optimal pricing. Four maturity stages (color turning stage, coloring stage, maturity stage, and fully ripe stage) of Cerasus Humilis fruit were examined using hyperspectral images (895–1700 nm) alongside data collection on SSC and firmness. These samples were divided into a calibration set and a validation set with a ratio of 3:1 by sample set partitioning based on the joint X-Y distances (SPXY) method. The original spectral data was processed by a spectral preprocessing method. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and nonlinear least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) detection models were established using feature wavelengths selected by the successive projections algorithm (SPA), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), uninformative variable elimination (UVE), and two combined downscaling algorithms (UVE-SPA and UVE-CARS), respectively. For SSC and firmness detection, the best models were the SNV-SPA-LS-SVM model with 18 feature wavelengths and the original spectra-UVE-CARS-LS-SVM model with eight feature wavelengths, respectively. For SSC, the correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) was 0.8526, the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) was 0.9703, and the residual prediction deviation (RPD) was 1.9017. For firmness, Rp was 0.7879, RMSEP was 1.1205, and RPD was 2.0221. Furthermore, the optimal model was employed to retrieve the distribution of SSC and firmness within Cerasus Humilis fruit. This retrieved information facilitated visual inspection, enabling a more intuitive and comprehensive assessment of SSC and firmness at each pixel level. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of hyperspectral imaging technology for determining SSC and firmness in Cerasus Humilis fruit. This paves the way for online monitoring of fruit quality, ultimately facilitating timely harvesting.
Jasmonates Play an Important Role in Differential Accumulation of Key Oolong Tea Aromas in Two Tea Varieties (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Li Xin-Lei , Deng Hui-Li , Zheng Yu-Cheng , Kong Xiang-Rui , Zhong Qiu-Sheng , You Xiao-Mei , Shan Rui-Yang , Lin Zheng-He , Chen Zhi-Hui , Chen Chang-Song
Published: May 2024

Aroma is an important factor in the measurement of the quality and market value of oolong tea. However, it is hard to develop an oolong tea with good aroma quality using unsuitable tea varieties. To explore the key factors of tea varieties in the formation of oolong tea aromas, the fresh leaves of the Chungui variety (CG, suitable for oolong tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) and the Fuyun No. 6 variety (F6, unsuitable for oolong tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) were harvested and treated by withering and mechanical stress in order. Then, aroma, transcriptome, and jasmonate (JA) contents, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), of samples were investigated. The contents of characteristic oolong tea aromas, including indole, (E)-β-ocimene, (E)-nerolidol, α-farnesene, and jasmine lactone, were all accumulated in much higher quantities in the CG variety after withering and mechanical stress. Accordingly, the coding genes of aroma formation synthases TSB2, OCS, NES, AFS, and LOX1, and related genes in MVA, MEP, and ALA pathways, were all much more highly activated. These differential reactions are mainly caused by the higher accumulation of jasmonates, especially methyl jasmonate, a type of important plant signal chemical, in CG after mechanical stress. WGCNA analysis indicated 34 different transcription factors from different families are predicted to be involved in this jasmonate-responsive reaction.
Changes in Foot Biomechanics during Pregnancy and Postpartum: Scoping Review
Authors: Zangão Maria Otília Brites , Poeira Ana Filipa , Branco Marco , Santos-Rocha Rita
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: During pregnancy, changes in foot biomechanics affect structural stability and gait. (2) Objective: To map the available evidence for changes in foot biomechanics during pregnancy and the postpartum period. (3) Methods: Scoping review according to the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute through the relevant databases via EBSCO, MEDLINE with full text, BioOne Complete, CINAHL Plus with full text, Academic Search Complete, and SPORT Discus with full text. The search was conducted in SCOPUS and PubMed. (4) Results: Eight studies were included in the scoping review. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and synthesized data in narrative form. We found that changes in the length and volume of the foot occur during pregnancy and remain in the postpartum period. (5) Conclusions: During pregnancy, anatomical and biomechanical changes occur in the pregnant woman’s foot, potentially contributing to the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. However, more research is needed to determine whether these biomechanical changes can lead to the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
The Integrated Family Approach in Mental Health Care Services: A Study of Risk Factors
Authors: Stolper Hanna , van der Vegt Marjolein , van Doesum Karin , Steketee Majone
Published: May 2024

Background: Parental mental disorders in families are frequently accompanied with other problems. These include family life, the development of children, and the social and economic environment. Mental health services often focus treatments on the individual being referred, with little attention to parenting, the family, child development, and environmental factors. This is despite the fact that there is substantial evidence to suggest that the children of these parents are at increased risk of developing a mental disorder throughout the course of their lives. Young children are particularly vulnerable to environmental influences given the level of dependency in this stage of development. Objective: The main objective of this study was to identify whether there were a complexity of problems and risks in a clinical sample of patients and their young children (0–6) in mental health care, and, if so, whether this complexity was reflected in the integrated treatment given. Methods: The data were collected for 26 risk factors, based on the literature, and then subdivided into the parental, child, family, and environmental domains. The data were obtained from the electronic case files of 100 patients at an adult mental health service and the corresponding 100 electronic case files of their infants at a child mental health service. Results: The findings evidenced a notable accumulation of risk factors within families, with a mean number of 8.43 (SD 3.2) risk factors. Almost all of the families had at least four risk factors, more than half of them had between six and ten risk factors, and a quarter of them had between eleven and sixteen risk factors. Furthermore, two-thirds of the families had at least one risk factor in each of the four domains. More than half of the families received support from at least two organizations in addition to the involvement of adult and child mental health services, which is also an indication of the presence of cumulative problems. Conclusion: This study of a clinical sample shows clearly that the mental disorder among most of the patients, who were all parents of young children, was only one of the problems they had to deal with. The cumulation of risk factors—especially in the family domain—increased the risk of the intergenerational transmission of mental disorders. To prevent these parents and their young children being caught up in this intergenerational cycle, a broad assessment is needed. In addition, malleable risk factors should be addressed in treatment and in close collaboration with other services.
Influencing Factors of Delayed Diagnosis of COVID-19 in Gangwon, South Korea
Authors: Park Minhye , Jeong Seungmin , Park Yangjun , Kim Saerom , Kim Yeojin , Kim Eunmi , Kong So Yeon
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to identify the time to diagnosis among COVID-19 patients and factors associated with delayed diagnosis (DD). Data from COVID-19 patients in Gangwon, South Korea, diagnosed between 22 February 2020 and 29 January 2022, were analyzed, excluding asymptomatic cases and those who underwent mandatory testing. DD was defined as a period exceeding 2 or more days from symptom recognition to COVID-19 diagnosis. Univariate analysis was performed to investigate the demographic characteristics, COVID-19 symptoms, and underlying medical conditions associated with DD, followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis for significant variables. Among 2683 patients, 584 (21.8%) were diagnosed within a day of symptom onset. DD rates were lower in patients with febrile symptoms but higher among those with cough, myalgia, or anosmia/ageusia. High-risk underlying medical conditions were not significantly associated with DD. Older age groups, the Wonju medical service area, time of diagnosis between November 2020 and July 2021, symptom onset on nonworkdays, and individuals in nonwhite collar sectors were significantly associated with increased DD risks. These findings were consistent in the sensitivity analysis. This study underscores the need for enhanced promotion and system adjustments to ensure prompt testing upon symptom recognition.
Exosomes/Extracellular Vesicles and Targeted Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Corrado Chiara , Fontana Simona
Published: May 2024

This Special Issue intends to underscore several topics related to cellular signaling transduction, considering the consensus that nowadays, the best scientific approach for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of several diseases is the study of the regulatory networks that determine the response to therapy and the maintenance of homeostasis or its dysregulation [...]
Urine 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid Negatively Correlates with Migraine Occurrence and Characteristics in the Interictal Phase of Episodic Migraine
Authors: Fila Michal , Chojnacki Jan , Derwich Marcin , Chojnacki Cezary , Pawlowska Elzbieta , Blasiak Janusz
Published: May 2024

Although migraine belongs to the main causes of disability worldwide, the mechanisms of its pathogenesis are poorly known. As migraine diagnosis is based on the subjective assessment of symptoms, there is a need to establish objective auxiliary markers to support clinical diagnosis. Tryptophan (TRP) metabolism has been associated with the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders. In the present work, we investigated an association between migraine and the urine concentration of TRP and its metabolites 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and quinolinic acid (QA) in 21 low-frequency episodic migraine patients and 32 controls. We chose the interictal phase as the episodic migraine patients were recruited from the outpatient clinic and had monthly migraine days as low as 1–2 in many cases. Migraine patients displayed lower urinary levels of 5-HIAA (p < 0.01) and KYNA (p < 0.05), but KYN and QA were enhanced, as compared with the controls (p < 0.05 and 0.001, respectively). Consequently, the patients were characterized by different values of the 5-HIAA/TRP, KYN/TRP, KYNA/KYN, and KYNA/QA ratios (p < 0.001 for all). Furthermore, urinary concentration of 5-HIAA was negatively correlated with Migraine Disability Assessment score and monthly migraine and monthly headache days. There was a negative correlation between Patient Health Questionnaire 9 scores assessing depression. In conclusion, the urinary 5-HIAA level may be further explored to assess its suitability as an easy-to-determine marker of migraine.
Easy and Effective Method for α-CD:N2O Host–Guest Complex Formation
Authors: Sarafska Tsveta P. , Spassova Maya I. , Dudev Todor M. , Pereva Stiliana M. , Stoyanov Simeon D. , Spassov Tony G.
Published: May 2024

α-CD:N2O “host-guest” type complexes were formed by a simple solid–gas reaction (N2O sorption into α-CD) under different gas pressures and temperatures. The new N2O inclusion method applied in the present study was compared with the already known technique based on the crystallization of clathrates from a water solution of α-CD saturated with N2O. A maximum storage capacity of 4.5 wt.% N2O was achieved when charging the cyclodextrin from a gas phase. The amount of included gas decreases to 1.3 wt.% when the complex is stored in air at 1 atm and room temperature, analogous to that achieved by the crystallization of α-CD:N2O. Furthermore, it was shown that the external coordination of N2O to either the upper or lower rim of α-CD without hydration water displacement is the preferred mode of binding, due to hydrogen bonds with neighboring -OH groups from the host macrocycle and three of the hydration water molecules nearby. The capacity of α-CD to store N2O and the thermal stability of the α-CD:N2O complex demonstrated promising applications of these types of complexes in food and beverages.
Metabolic Contrasts: Fatty Acid Oxidation and Ketone Bodies in Healthy Brains vs. Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Tamas Corina , Tamas Flaviu , Kovecsi Attila , Cehan Alina , Balasa Adrian
Published: May 2024

The metabolism of glucose and lipids plays a crucial role in the normal homeostasis of the body. Although glucose is the main energy substrate, in its absence, lipid metabolism becomes the primary source of energy. The main means of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) takes place in the mitochondrial matrix through β-oxidation. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common form of primary malignant brain tumor (45.6%), with an incidence of 3.1 per 100,000. The metabolic changes found in GBM cells and in the surrounding microenvironment are associated with proliferation, migration, and resistance to treatment. Tumor cells show a remodeling of metabolism with the use of glycolysis at the expense of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), known as the Warburg effect. Specialized fatty acids (FAs) transporters such as FAT, FABP, or FATP from the tumor microenvironment are overexpressed in GBM and contribute to the absorption and storage of an increased amount of lipids that will provide sufficient energy used for tumor growth and invasion. This review provides an overview of the key enzymes, transporters, and main regulatory pathways of FAs and ketone bodies (KBs) in normal versus GBM cells, highlighting the need to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve treatment efficacy in patients with GBM.
Enhanced Sampling Molecular Dynamics Simulations Reveal Transport Mechanism of Glycoconjugate Drugs through GLUT1
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Cao Xueting , Ma Zhenyu , Xu Limei , Wang Lushan , Li Jian , Xiao Min , Jiang Xukai
Published: May 2024

Glucose transporters GLUT1 belong to the major facilitator superfamily and are essential to human glucose uptake. The overexpression of GLUT1 in tumor cells designates it as a pivotal target for glycoconjugate anticancer drugs. However, the interaction mechanism of glycoconjugate drugs with GLUT1 remains largely unknown. Here, we employed all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, coupled to steered and umbrella sampling techniques, to examine the thermodynamics governing the transport of glucose and two glycoconjugate drugs (i.e., 6-D-glucose-conjugated methane sulfonate and 6-D-glucose chlorambucil) by GLUT1. We characterized the specific interactions between GLUT1 and substrates at different transport stages, including substrate recognition, transport, and releasing, and identified the key residues involved in these procedures. Importantly, our results described, for the first time, the free energy profiles of GLUT1-transporting glycoconjugate drugs, and demonstrated that H160 and W388 served as important gates to regulate their transport via GLUT1. These findings provide novel atomic-scale insights for understanding the transport mechanism of GLUT1, facilitating the discovery and rational design of GLUT1-targeted anticancer drugs.
Rosuvastatin Intervention in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) Expands CD14+ CD16− Classical Monocytes via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR)
Authors: Rahmati Mina , Zare Ebrahimabad Mojtaba , Langari Alale , Najafi Ali , Taziki Shohreh , Norouzi Alireza , Teimoorian Mehrdad , Khorasani Milad , Mohammadi Saeed
Published: May 2024

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) poses treatment challenges, with treatment response and disease outcome often determined by the immune response, particularly mononuclear phagocytes. Monocytes can differentiate into various subpopulations influenced by AHR. Statins, known for inflammation modulation, may impact monocyte function via AHR activation. This study explored rosuvastatin (RSV)’s effects on monocyte subtypes, inflammatory markers, and AHR in CHB patients. Fifteen CHB patients were randomly assigned to receive either 20 mg RSV or a placebo daily for three months. Flow cytometry assessed CD14+ CD16− (classical), CD14+ CD16+ (intermediate), and CD14dim CD16+ (patrolling) monocyte subtypes, along with AHR levels in each subset. ELISA quantified cytokines IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-β, and IL-1β. RSV expanded CD14+ CD16− classical and reduced CD14+ CD16+ intermediate monocytes in CHB patients while increasing AHR+ cell percentages in all subsets. RSV treatment upregulated key AHR target genes (Cyp1a1, Cyp1b1, and ARNT), indicating robust AHR signaling activation. It also reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-6, IFNγ, IL-12, TNF-α) and elevated anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β). Thus, RSV may modulate the immune response by altering monocyte subtypes in CHB patients via AHR activation.
Telehealth-Based Information Retrieval and Extraction for Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Symptom Patterns in Mild COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Jahaj Edison , Gallos Parisis , Tziomaka Melina , Kallipolitis Athanasios , Pasias Apostolos , Panagopoulos Christos , Menychtas Andreas , Dimopoulou Ioanna , Kotanidou Anastasia , Maglogiannis Ilias , Vassiliou Alice Georgia
Published: May 2024

Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients have been mostly described in hospitalised patients, yet most are managed in an outpatient setting. The COVID-19 pandemic transformed healthcare delivery models and accelerated the implementation and adoption of telemedicine solutions. We employed a modular remote monitoring system with multi-modal data collection, aggregation, and analytics features to monitor mild COVID-19 patients and report their characteristics and symptoms. At enrolment, the patients were equipped with wearables, which were associated with their accounts, provided the respective in-system consents, and, in parallel, reported the demographics and patient characteristics. The patients monitored their vitals and symptoms daily during a 14-day monitoring period. Vital signs were entered either manually or automatically through wearables. We enrolled 162 patients from February to May 2022. The median age was 51 (42–60) years; 44% were male, 22% had at least one comorbidity, and 73.5% were fully vaccinated. The vitals of the patients were within normal range throughout the monitoring period. Thirteen patients were asymptomatic, while the rest had at least one symptom for a median of 11 (7–16) days. Fatigue was the most common symptom, followed by fever and cough. Loss of taste and smell was the longest-lasting symptom. Age positively correlated with the duration of fatigue, anorexia, and low-grade fever. Comorbidities, the number of administered doses, the days since the last dose, and the days since the positive test did not seem to affect the number of sick days or symptomatology. The i-COVID platform allowed us to provide remote monitoring and reporting of COVID-19 outpatients. We were able to report their clinical characteristics while simultaneously helping reduce the spread of the virus through hospitals by minimising hospital visits. The monitoring platform also offered advanced knowledge extraction and analytic capabilities to detect health condition deterioration and automatically trigger personalised support workflows.
Principle of Information Increase: An Operational Perspective on Information Gain in the Foundations of Quantum Theory
Authors: Yu Yang , Goyal Philip
Published: May 2024

A measurement performed on a quantum system is an act of gaining information about its state. However, in the foundations of quantum theory, the concept of information is multiply defined, particularly in the area of quantum reconstruction, and its conceptual foundations remain surprisingly under-explored. In this paper, we investigate the gain of information in quantum measurements from an operational viewpoint in the special case of a two-outcome probabilistic source. We show that the continuous extension of the Shannon entropy naturally admits two distinct measures of information gain, differential information gain and relative information gain, and that these have radically different characteristics. In particular, while differential information gain can increase or decrease as additional data are acquired, relative information gain consistently grows and, moreover, exhibits asymptotic indifference to the data or choice of Bayesian prior. In order to make a principled choice between these measures, we articulate a Principle of Information Increase, which incorporates a proposal due to Summhammer that more data from measurements leads to more knowledge about the system, and also takes into consideration black swan events. This principle favours differential information gain as the more relevant metric and guides the selection of priors for these information measures. Finally, we show that, of the symmetric beta distribution priors, the Jeffreys binomial prior is the prior that ensures maximal robustness of information gain for the particular data sequence obtained in a run of experiments.
Artificial Intelligence in the Management of Women with Endometriosis and Adenomyosis: Can Machines Ever Be Worse Than Humans?
Authors: Cetera Giulia Emily , Tozzi Alberto Eugenio , Chiappa Valentina , Castiglioni Isabella , Merli Camilla Erminia Maria , Vercellini Paolo
Published: May 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is experiencing advances and integration in all medical specializations, and this creates excitement but also concerns. This narrative review aims to critically assess the state of the art of AI in the field of endometriosis and adenomyosis. By enabling automation, AI may speed up some routine tasks, decreasing gynecologists’ risk of burnout, as well as enabling them to spend more time interacting with their patients, increasing their efficiency and patients’ perception of being taken care of. Surgery may also benefit from AI, especially through its integration with robotic surgery systems. This may improve the detection of anatomical structures and enhance surgical outcomes by combining intra-operative findings with pre-operative imaging. Not only that, but AI promises to improve the quality of care by facilitating clinical research. Through the introduction of decision-support tools, it can enhance diagnostic assessment; it can also predict treatment effectiveness and side effects, as well as reproductive prognosis and cancer risk. However, concerns exist regarding the fact that good quality data used in tool development and compliance with data sharing guidelines are crucial. Also, professionals are worried AI may render certain specialists obsolete. This said, AI is more likely to become a well-liked team member rather than a usurper.
High-Density Dermal Matrix for Soft Tissue Augmentation Using a Matrix Tissue Graft Technique—A Comprehensive Multicenter Analysis of 20 Implants: A 1-Year Follow-Up Retrospective Study
Authors: Minniti Alessandro , Caroprese Marino , Zarantonello Morris , De Santis Daniele , Caliendo Gialfonso , Gelpi Federico
Published: May 2024

Background: In this multicenter case series analysis, the authors present successful instances of 20 single-screw-retained and implant-supported prosthetic rehabilitation samples. Methods: A high-density heterologous dermal matrix (Derma® Osteobiol by Tecnoss, Torino, Italy) was employed with a specific technique named the matrix tissue graft (MTG) in all these cases characterized by an inadequate initial supra-crestal tissue height (thin if 1 mm or medium if 2 mm) to enhance the peri-implant soft tissues both vertically and horizontally. Results: The implants were deemed successful in all cases, yielding a success proportion of 100% (one-sided 97.5% confidence interval = 83.2–100%). The buccal and lingual gains were, respectively, 2.2 ± 0.38 mm (range 1.7–3.22 mm) and 0.83 ± 0.33 mm (range 0.1–1.5 mm). These measurements were calculated as the maximum distance between two superimposed .stl file models (derived from two different IOS devices) scanned before implant placement and 1 year after dermal matrix healing. Conclusions: An outstanding vertical and horizontal gain was obtained using this heterologous derma matrix placed above the bone crest and surrounding the dental implants.
Using Machine Learning to Evaluate the Value of Genetic Liabilities in the Classification of Hypertension within the UK Biobank
Authors: MacCarthy Gideon , Pazoki Raha
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective: Hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney disease, contributing to global disease burden and premature mortality. Previous studies have utilized statistical and machine learning techniques to develop hypertension prediction models. Only a few have included genetic liabilities and evaluated their predictive values. This study aimed to develop an effective hypertension classification model and investigate the potential influence of genetic liability for multiple risk factors linked to CVD on hypertension risk using the random forest and the neural network. Materials and Methods: The study involved 244,718 European participants, who were divided into training and testing sets. Genetic liabilities were constructed using genetic variants associated with CVD risk factors obtained from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Various combinations of machine learning models before and after feature selection were tested to develop the best classification model. The models were evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), calibration, and net reclassification improvement in the testing set. Results: The models without genetic liabilities achieved AUCs of 0.70 and 0.72 using the random forest and the neural network methods, respectively. Adding genetic liabilities improved the AUC for the random forest but not for the neural network. The best classification model was achieved when feature selection and classification were performed using random forest (AUC = 0.71, Spiegelhalter z score = 0.10, p-value = 0.92, calibration slope = 0.99). This model included genetic liabilities for total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Conclusions: The study highlighted that incorporating genetic liabilities for lipids in a machine learning model may provide incremental value for hypertension classification beyond baseline characteristics.
Clinical Features and Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis: A Sex-Related Perspective on Leptin and Comorbidity
Authors: Toledano Esther , Gómez-Lechón Luis , Chacón Carolina Cristina , Hidalgo Cristina , Ibáñez Marta , Márquez Antonio , Queiro Rubén , Montilla Carlos
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Many studies have addressed the sex differences in patients with psoriatic arthritis, although these are aimed more at describing the phenotype than at investigating the causes underlying these differences. The aims of our study were to assess the presence of clinical features in relation to sex, and to measure the effect on disease activity of different comorbidities in each sex. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which the following factors were measured: the clinical features of the disease, disease activity, the physical function and the disease impact. We measured serum leptin levels, to eliminate the effect of obesity on leptin levels, and a leptin/BMI ratio was calculated. The comorbid conditions evaluated included anxiety and depression, and sleep quality. Results: A total of 203 patients participated in this study. The mean age was 54.6 ± 11.3, and 46.8% of the patients were women. Women less frequently presented axial involvement (8% vs. 28%; p < 0.001) and more commonly had enthesitis (2 vs. 0.3; p < 0.001). They also had higher DAPSA (16.4 vs. 13.4; p < 0.001) and PsAID12 scores (4.1 vs. 2.9; p < 0.001), worse HAQ results (0.8 vs. 0.5; p < 0.001), and greater FACIT-F scores (32.7 vs. 38.1; p < 0.001). As for the comorbid conditions, women presented a higher leptin/BMI ratio (0.8 vs. 0.2; p < 0.001), higher levels of HADS-A (6.9 vs. 4.7; p < 0.001) and HADS-D (4.9 vs. 3.4; p < 0.001), and poorer ISI (9.3 vs. 7.0; p < 0.001). By sex, pain affecting women was associated with the leptin/BMI ratio (β: 0.29; p < 0.004; 95%CI: 0.3–1.6) and sleep quality (β: 0.31; p < 0.004; 95%CI: 0.04–0.25; R2: 0.26). The leptin/BMI ratio was not associated with pain in men (p = 0.46). Conclusions: Sex was associated with several clinical manifestations. Leptin/BMI ratio levels were associated with pain in women, but not in men.
Heart Transplantation Following Fontan Failure: Long-Term Survival Analysis
Authors: D’Alonzo Michele , Brunelli Federico , Seddio Francesco , Papesso Francesca Julia , Petruccelli Rocco Davide , Di Cosola Roberta , Merlo Maurizio , Muneretto Claudio , Terzi Amedeo , Uricchio Nicola
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Fontan circulation presents significant challenges for patients with congenital heart disease, often necessitating heart transplantation (HTX) due to deteriorating functionality across multiple organ systems. However, the impact of prior Fontan palliation on HTX outcomes remains poorly understood, with early mortality rates suggesting a heightened risk. The aim of our study is to evaluate the long-term results after heart transplantation in patients with univentricular congenital heart disease previously palliated with Fontan circulation. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent HTX for congenital heart disease. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the pre-HTX circulation pathway: the Failing Fontan Group (FFG) and the Biventricular Congenital Group (BCG). Data were collected from patients between 1987 and 2018. Early and late outcomes, including survival rates, were assessed and critically analyzed. Results: Of the 66 patients, 29 (43%) had a failing Fontan palliation (FFG), and 37 had biventricular congenital diseases (BCG) before heart transplantation. Early mortality (30-day) was not statistically different between the two group. The overall survival rate was 82.6 ± 13.9% at 1 year, 79.0 ± 14.9% at 5 years, 67.2 ± 17.6% at 10 years and 63.2 ± 18.2 ± at 15 years for the FFG, and 86.1 ±11.4% at 1 year, 79.5 ± 13.7% at 5 years, 75.7 ± 14.9% at 10 years, 75.7 ± 14.9% at 15 years for the BCG, with no statistically significant difference (Mantel Cox p value: 0.69, 0.89, 0.52 and 0.39, respectively). Regarding Cox-regression analysis, the long-term survival rate was not affected either by previous Fontan surgery or by the era of heart transplantation (before vs. after the year 2000). Conclusions: Although heart transplantation after Fontan palliation showed a higher risk in the early post-operative period, the medium- and long-term survival rates are comparable with biventricular circulation patients. Despite the failing Fontan patients being a challenging set of candidates for transplantation, it is a reasonable option in their treatment.
Effectiveness of a Dual-Task Intervention Involving Exercise and Vocalized Cognitive Tasks
Authors: Abo Masahiro , Hamaguchi Toyohiro
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Population aging is rapidly increasing, and the importance of preventive medicine has been stressed. Health checkups, diet, and exercise are of paramount importance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized dual-task intervention that combined exercise with cognitive tasks in improving physical and cognitive functions among independently living older individuals. Methods: Participants aged >65 years who were mostly independent in their activities of daily living were divided into two groups. The group receiving the 20 min robot-assisted session was compared with the group receiving traditional functional restoration training. This randomized trial assessed the impact of this intervention on the 30 s chair stand test score and Montreal Cognitive Assessment—Japanese version score of the participants. Results: Both scores significantly improved in the intervention group, indicating enhanced lower-limb function and cognitive capabilities. Conclusions: These findings suggest that integrating cognitive tasks with physical exercise can stand as an effective strategy to improve overall well-being in older people, offering valuable insights for designing comprehensive preventive health programs tailored to this demographic.
Snapshot of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibodies in COVID-19 Recovered Patients in Guinea
Authors: Grayo Solène , Sagno Houlou , Diassy Oumar , Zogbelemou Jean-Baptiste , Kondabo Sia Jeanne , Houndekon Marilyn , Dellagi Koussay , Vigan-Womas Inès , Rourou Samia , Hamouda Wafa Ben , Benabdessalem Chaouki , Ahmed Melika Ben , Tordo Noël
Published: May 2024

Background: Because the regular vaccine campaign started in Guinea one year after the COVID-19 index case, the profile of naturally acquired immunity following primary SARS-CoV-2 infection needs to be deepened. Methods: Blood samples were collected once from 200 patients (90% of African extraction) who were recovered from COVID-19 for at least ~2.4 months (72 days), and their sera were tested for IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 using an in-house ELISA assay against the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike1 protein (RBD/S1-IH kit). Results: Results revealed that 73% of sera (146/200) were positive for IgG to SARS-CoV-2 with an Optical Density (OD) ranging from 0.13 to 1.19 and a median value of 0.56 (IC95: 0.51–0.61). The median OD value at 3 months (1.040) suddenly decreased thereafter and remained stable around OD 0.5 until 15 months post-infection. The OD median value was slightly higher in males compared to females (0.62 vs. 0.49), but the difference was not statistically significant (p-value: 0.073). In contrast, the OD median value was significantly higher among the 60–100 age group (0.87) compared to other groups, with a noteworthy odds ratio compared to the 0–20 age group (OR: 9.69, p-value: 0.044*). Results from the RBD/S1-IH ELISA kit demonstrated superior concordance with the whole spike1 protein ELISA commercial kit compared to a nucleoprotein ELISA commercial kit. Furthermore, anti-spike1 protein ELISAs (whole spike1 and RBD/S1) revealed higher seropositivity rates. Conclusions: These findings underscore the necessity for additional insights into naturally acquired immunity against COVID-19 and emphasize the relevance of specific ELISA kits for accurate seropositivity rates
Disease Control and Treatment Satisfaction in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria in Japan
Authors: Fukunaga Atsushi , Kishi Yuko , Arima Kazuhiko , Fujita Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), characterized by the recurrence of pruritic hives and/or angioedema for >6 weeks with no identifiable trigger, has a negative impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods: The objective of this web-based cross-sectional study was to evaluate disease control, disease burden, and treatment satisfaction in Japanese adults with CSU using the Urticaria Control Test (UCT), HRQoL outcomes, and the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication–9 items (TSQM-9). Results: In total, 529 adults were included in the analysis (59.9% female), with a mean ± standard deviation (SD) in CSU duration of 13.2 ± 13.0 years. Based on UCT scores, two-thirds of patients had poor (score of 0–7; 23.6%) or insufficient (score of 8–11; 43.3%) symptom control, and one-third had good control (score of 12–16; 33.1%). Overall treatment satisfaction was not high, with mean ± SD TSQM-9 scores of 55.5 ± 17.6% for effectiveness, 68.2 ± 18.8% for convenience, and 59.2 ± 18.4% for global satisfaction. No apparent differences in TSQM-9 scores were observed between patients receiving different medications. HRQoL outcomes were worse among patients with poor/insufficient symptom control. Conclusions: Japanese adults with CSU have a high disease burden, and better treatment options are needed to increase treatment satisfaction.
External Validation of a Machine Learning Model for Schizophrenia Classification
Authors: He Yupeng , Sakuma Kenji , Kishi Taro , Li Yuanying , Matsunaga Masaaki , Tanihara Shinichi , Iwata Nakao , Ota Atsuhiko
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective: Excellent generalizability is the precondition for the widespread practical implementation of machine learning models. In our previous study, we developed the schizophrenia classification model (SZ classifier) to identify potential schizophrenia patients in the Japanese population. The SZ classifier has exhibited impressive performance during internal validation. However, ensuring the robustness and generalizability of the SZ classifier requires external validation across independent sample sets. In this study, we aimed to present an external validation of the SZ classifier using outpatient data. Methods: The SZ classifier was trained by using online survey data, which incorporate demographic, health-related, and social comorbidity features. External validation was conducted using an outpatient sample set which is independent from the sample set during the model development phase. The model performance was assessed based on the sensitivity and misclassification rates for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression patients. Results: The SZ classifier demonstrated a sensitivity of 0.75 when applied to schizophrenia patients. The misclassification rates were 59% and 55% for bipolar disorder and major depression patients, respectively. Conclusions: The SZ classifier currently encounters challenges in accurately determining the presence or absence of schizophrenia at the individual level. Prior to widespread practical implementation, enhancements are necessary to bolster the accuracy and diminish the misclassification rates. Despite the current limitations of the model, such as poor specificity for certain psychiatric disorders, there is potential for improvement if including multiple types of psychiatric disorders during model development.
Contrast Volume-to-Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Ratio as a Predictor of Short-Term Outcomes Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Chehab Omar , Esposito Giulia , Long Edouard J. B. , Ng Yin Ling Clarissa , Hale Samuel , Malomo Samuel , O’Reilly Nanci , Mathur Anthony , Baumbach Andreas , Ozkor Mick , Kennon Simon , Mullen Michael
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with early mortality and adverse events. However, in the setting of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), previous literature has failed to establish a correlation between the absolute volume of contrast media administered and mortality. We aimed to investigate the impact of contrast volume administered normalised to estimated glomerular filtration rate (CV/eGFR) on the development of AKI and on 30-day all-cause mortality in TAVI patients. Methods: We retrospectively analysed a cohort of 1150 patients who underwent TAVI at our unit between 2015 and 2018. Results: Follow-up was complete for 1064 patients. There were 23 deaths within the follow-up period and 76 cases of AKI, 9 of which required new renal replacement therapy (RRT). Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed fair discrimination for 30-day all-cause mortality at a CV/eGFR ratio of 3.6 (area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.671). Of patients in whom CV data were available, 86.0% (n = 757) had a CV/eGFR < 3.6 and 14.0% (n = 123) had a CV/eGFR ≥ 3.6. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, CV/eGFR ≥ 3.6 was the strongest predictor of 30-day all-cause mortality (odds ratio 5.06, 95% confidence interval [1.61–15.7], p = 0.004). Other independent predictors were procedural urgency (3.28 [1.04–10.3], p = 0.038) and being under general anaesthesia (4.81 [1.10–17.3], p = 0.023). CV/eGFR ≥ 3.6 was also independently associated with significantly increased odds of AKI (2.28 [1.20–4.17], p = 0.009) alongside significant non-left main stem coronary artery disease (2.56 [1.45–4.66], p = 0.001), and diabetes (1.82 [1.03–3.19], p = 0.037). In supplementary ROC curve analysis, a similar CV/eGFR cut point of 3.6 was found to be an excellent predictor for new RRT (AUC 0.833). Conclusions: In conclusion, a CV/eGFR ≥ 3.6 post-TAVI was found to be a strong predictor of 30-day mortality and AKI. The maximum contrast volume that can be safely administered in each patient without significantly increasing the risk of mortality and AKI can be calculated using this ratio.
Revealing the Mechanisms of Smoke during Electron Beam–Powder Bed Fusion by High-Speed Synchrotron Radiography
Authors: Ye Jihui , Semjatov Nick , Bidola Pidassa , Lindwall Greta , Körner Carolin
Published: May 2024

Electron beam–powder bed fusion (PBF-EB) is an additive manufacturing process that utilizes an electron beam as the heat source to enable material fusion. However, the use of a charge-carrying heat source can sometimes result in sudden powder explosions, usually referred to as “Smoke”, which can lead to process instability or termination. This experimental study investigated the initiation and propagation of Smoke using in situ high-speed synchrotron radiography. The results reveal two key mechanisms for Smoke evolution. In the first step, the beam–powder bed interaction creates electrically isolated particles in the atmosphere. Subsequently, these isolated particles get charged either by direct irradiation by the beam or indirectly by back-scattered electrons. These particles are accelerated by electric repulsion, and new particles in the atmosphere are produced when they impinge on the powder bed. This is the onset of the avalanche process known as Smoke. Based on this understanding, the dependence of Smoke on process parameters such as beam returning time, beam diameter, etc., can be rationalized.
Real-Size Reconstruction of Porous Media Using the Example of Fused Filament Fabrication 3D-Printed Rock Analogues
Authors: Oskolkov Alexander A. , Kochnev Alexander A. , Krivoshchekov Sergey N. , Savitsky Yan V.
Published: May 2024

The multi-scale study of rock properties is a necessary step in the planning of oil and gas reservoir developments. The amount of core samples available for research is usually limited, and some of the samples can be distracted. The investigation of core reconstruction possibilities is an important task. An approach to the real-size reconstruction of porous media with a given (target) porosity and permeability by controlling the parameters of FFF 3D printing using CT images of the original core is proposed. Real-size synthetic core specimens based on CT images were manufactured using FFF 3D printing. The possibility of reconstructing the reservoir properties of a sandstone core sample was proven. The results of gas porometry measurements showed that the porosity of specimens No.32 and No.46 was 13.5% and 12.8%, and the permeability was 442.3 mD and 337.8 mD, respectively. The porosity of the original core was 14% and permeability was 271 mD. It was found that changing the layer height and nozzle diameter, as well as the retract and restart distances, has a direct effect on the porosity and permeability of synthetic specimens. This study shows that porosity and permeability of synthetic specimens depend on the flow of the material and the percentage of overlap between the infill and the outer wall.
How Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances Affect Gamete Viability and Fertilization Capability: Insights from the Literature
Authors: Lockington Cielle , Favetta Laura A.
Published: May 2024

There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3–8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, leading to the inhibition of androgen and estradiol production. PFAS have been found to cause detrimental effects on egg quality through impairing folliculogenesis. In males, PFAS can impair sperm motility and morphology: two fundamental qualities of successful fertilization. PFAS exposure has been proven to inhibit testosterone production, sperm capacitation, and acrosomal reaction. After fertilization, the results of PFAS exposure to embryos have also been investigated, showing reduced development to the blastocyst stage. The aim of this review is to report the main findings in the literature on the impact of PFAS exposure to gamete competency and fertilization capability by highlighting key studies on both male and female fertility. We report that there is significant evidence demonstrating the negative impacts on fertility after PFAS exposure. At high doses, these environmentally abundant and widespread compounds can significantly affect human fertility.
Breast Vascularization and Its Implication in Breast Reduction and Mastopexy Surgery: Anatomical Study
Authors: Salas-López Ainhoa , Morgado-Águila Carolina , López-de-Celis Carlos , Rodríguez-Sanz Jacobo , Ortiz-Miguel Sara , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: Breast reduction is one of the most frequently performed plastic surgeries in women worldwide. The Wise pattern breast reduction is one of the most frequent skin designs for this surgery. One key point of the surgery is to preserve a well-vascularized NAC by using different surgical pedicles. This study aims to test and update the anatomical knowledge of breast vascularization, the topographic and anatomical basis of the different surgical vascular pedicles, and the differences between the right and left sides. (2) Methods: A descriptive observational anatomical study was carried out on 15 breasts from 10 cryopreserved body donors. A dissection was performed by quadrants to know the affected arteries’ origin in the different patterns. (3) Results: The largest and most frequently dissected internal mammary perforator artery was in the second intercostal space. A total of 44.9% of the dissected perforators are located in the upper inner quadrant, compared to 53.5% in the lower quadrants. (4) Conclusions: The upper inner quadrant alone has the most arterial perforators. In contrast, the sum of the two lower quadrants represents the greatest vascularization of the breast, with a small difference between both.