bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological metal–organic frameworks for natural gas purification and MTO product separation
Authors: Li Wen , Wang Dan , Wang Yi , Shi Zhaohui , Liu Junxue , Zhang Lirong , Xue Dongxu , Liu Yunling
Published: April 2024

The use of porous solid adsorbents is an effective and excellent approach for the separation and purification of methanol-to-olefins product and methane (CH4). In this particular study, a series of adenine (AD)-based biological metal–organic frameworks (Bio-MOFs) {Their general formula is Cu 2 (AD) 2 (X) 2 [X = formic acid, acetic acid (AA), and propionic acid]} were proposed, which exhibited remarkable efficiency in the purification of CH4 and the separation of C3H6 from methanol-to-olefins product, ultimately yielding purified C2H4. The experimental findings demonstrate that different terminal ligands induce alterations in the pore microenvironment, consequently leading to variations in adsorption capacities and stability. Specifically, Cu-AD-AA exhibits the highest adsorption capacity and selectivity among the three MOFs, as confirmed by static adsorption isotherm testing and theoretical evaluation using ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) simulation. At 298 K and 1 bar, Cu-AD-AA exhibits 786 and 10.9 selectivity for C3H8/CH4 and C3H6/C2H4, respectively, surpassing the majority of MOFs materials. Furthermore, breakthrough experiments conducted in ambient conditions reveal that Cu-AD-AA possesses commendable separation capabilities, enabling one-step purification of C2H4 at varying proportions (C2H4/C3H6 = 50:50, 50:20, and 90:10), along with satisfactory recycling performance. Importantly, the synthesis of Cu-AD-AA utilizes simple and easily obtainable raw materials, thereby offering advantages such as cost-effectiveness, low toxicity, and facile synthesis that enhance its potential for industrial applications.
Engineering of lithiophilic hosts for stable lithium metal anodes
Authors: Huang Lianzhan , Li Wei , Cui Zhiming
Published: April 2024

Lithium (Li0) metal has been deemed the desired anode for the future of cutting-edge rechargeable Li batteries benefiting from its lowest reduction potential and ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity. Nevertheless, the large-scale applications of Li metal batteries are restricted by scattered Li dendrite formation and uncontrollable volume expansion. To address these issues, a currently prevalent measure is to use structured lithiophilic hosts for Li metal. The enhanced lithiophilicity of hosts is significant for regulating the Li nucleation barrier. By virtue of these lithiophilic measures, the Li nucleation sites will be well controlled and the Li plating layer will be more stable. Through this article, we classified various lithiophilic hosts and described their applications for Li metal batteries, including heteroatom-doping carbon, lithiophilic-material loading hosts and gradient skeletons. We discussed the inherent advantages and lithophilic mechanisms of these hosts on optimizing the lithophilic properties and analyzed various factors that induced the formation of dendrite Li. Moreover, the review outlines the current challenges and perspectives for Li metal anodes, and some understanding of the lithiophilic chemistry is given.
Emerging application of 2D materials for dendrite-free metal batteries
Authors: Xu Mengyang , Xin Zongyuan , Wang Jun , Tang Tsz Wing , Li Yaxuan , Li Yuyin , Kim Tae-Hyung , Luo Zhengtang
Published: April 2024

Metal batteries using lithium, sodium, potassium, zinc, etc., as anodes have garnered tremendous attention in rechargeable batteries because of their highly desirable theoretical energy densities. However, large-scale application of these metal batteries is impeded by dendrite growth on the anode surface, which may penetrate the separator, leading to battery failure. Two dimensional (2D) materials featured by excellent mechanical strength and flexibility, tunable electronic properties and controllable assembly are promising materials for the construction of dendrite-free metal batteries. In this review, we summarize recent advancements of 2D materials for their potential use in critical components of dendrite-free batteries used as: (1) a host or artificial solid-electrolyte for metal anodes; (2) a solid electrolyte or modifier for electrolyte; and (3) an enhancement component for separators design. We conclude that 2D materials hold great promise for tackling the problems associated with dendrite formation by functioning as mechanical reinforcement and metal deposition regulators, along with improved safety, performance, and durability of batteries. Finally, this review discusses new perspectives and future directions in the field of 2D materials towards safe, high-energy metal batteries.
Application of Installations with Uniform-Strength Beams as Working Deformation Standards
Authors: Tribushevskaia L.  A. , Mitrofanov V. V. , Osipov L. E.
Published: April 2024

A method for obtaining homogeneous deformation along the length of the measuring section of a uniform-strength beam and the possibility of its application as part of a working deformation standard are considered. The results of the analysis of the bending model and the design of a uniform-strength beam are presented. In the focus of attention are the parameters included in the measurement equation and related to methodological factors, as well as influencing the result of relative deformation measurements. The subjects of research are the presence of contact friction forces, heterogeneity of material properties, the special nature of the load application (bending, torsion, the presence of residual stresses in the body, geometrical parameters of the calibration beam, orientation of primary transducers on the beam, application of bending load, measurement of deflection and displacement of the neutral layer). The advantages and disadvantages of using a uniform-strength beam for determining the characteristics of primary strain transducers during testing, calibration, and verification were established. The deviation of signals of primary transducers located outside the axial cross-section when oriented along the beam axis and along the force lines converging at the point of load application was experimentally revealed. The error due to the orientation of the primary transducers on the beam depending on the angle between the lateral faces can range from 0.15 to 0.23 %. The study adds to the theoretical knowledge base on the possibility of using a cantilever uniform-strength beam as a load-bearing element in calibration installations. The conclusions may be useful for testing, calibrating, and verifying primary strain transducers.
Overcoming obstacles typical for a flat terrain by a walking robot
Authors: Golubev Yury Filippovich , Korianov Victor Vladimirovich
Published: April 2024

An upper estimate of the maximum width of the forbidden zone for foot fulcrums, which a walking robot can overcome in static stability mode, is presented. Using the examples of six-legged and four-legged robot, it is shown that the obtained estimate can't be improved. For this purpose, the sequences of the robot's foot placement have been formed, ensuring the achievement of the estimation meaning. The results of computer modeling and video materials illustrating the process of overcoming an obstacle by a six-legged robot are presented.
Revisão narrativa sobre a utilização do ácido alfa-lipoico per os na neuropatia diabética
Authors:   USF Damião de Góis, ULS Lisboa Ocidental e  Oeiras, Rua Dr. Manuel de Arriaga,  n.º 32-40,  1495-087 Algés, Portugal, R Rodrigues Sofia ,   Associação Protetora dos Diabéticos de Portugal (APDP), R. Rodrigo da Fonseca 1,  1250-189 Lisboa, Portugal, Silva Valter ,   USF Dafundo, ULS  Lisboa Ocidental e Oeiras, Praceta dos Bombeiros  Voluntários 7,  1495-701 Cruz Quebrada,  Portugal
Published: April 2024

O tratamento da neuropatia diabética permanece desafiante. O ácido alfa lipoico é um antioxidante que parece melhorar os sintomas neuropáticos. A presente revisão tem por objetivo compreender se o ácido alfa lipoico per os é eficaz no controlo sintomático da neuropatia diabética. Definiu-se PICO: População - adultos com Diabetes Mellitus e neuropatia diabética; Intervenção - ácido alfa lipoico por via oral; Comparador - outro tratamento, farmacológico ou não farmacológico, para a neuropatia diabética; Outcome - controlo sintomático da neuropatia diabética. Utilizaram-se os termos MeSH “alpha lipoic acid” e “diabetic neuropathy” para a pesquisa bibliográfica nas guidelines da American Diabetes Association e International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot, bem como nas bases de dados PUBMED e Cochrane. Pesquisados revisões sistemáticas, ensaios clínicos aleatorizados e metanálises publicados entre 11/2012 e 1/2024. Para classificação do nível de evidência dos resultados utilizou-se a Strentght Of Recomendation Taxonomy. As guidelines da American Diabetes Association 2024 mencionam o ácido alfa lipoico como opção no tratamento da neuropatia diabética, embora não esteja a sua utilização nesta patologia. Não há menção do ácido alfa lipoico nas guidelines do International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot. Obtiveram-se duas revisões sistemáticas e oito ensaios clínicos aleatorizados para leitura integral. As revisões sistemáticas concluem que não há diferenças significativas entre o ácido alfa lipoico e o placebo. Dos ensaios clínicos aleatorizados (20-460 participantes), dois revelam eficácia da associação de ácido alfa lipoico com outros suplementos ou gabapentinóides, enquanto cinco ensaios clínicos aleatorizados demonstram eficácia do ácido alfa lipoico isoladamente. Um ensaio clínico aleatorizado não verificou melhoria clínica significativa. Um ensaio clínico aleatorizado mostra que a cessação do ácido alfa lipoico se associou a maior necessidade de analgesia de resgate. Dois ensaios clínicos aleatorizados apontam maior eficácia da terapêutica com ácido alfa lipoico em doentes com fatores de risco metabólicos controlados. A variabilidade da posologia e duração do tratamento nos estudos prévios dificulta a utilização de uma estratégia universal. O controlo metabólico adequado pode ser fator de confundimento. A confiança nos resultados é limitada pela curta duração dos estudos e reduzido número de participantes. Conclui-se que não existe consenso relativamente ao uso do ácido alfa lipoico na neuropatia diabética, sendo a sua utilização classificada como Strentght Of Recomendation Taxonomy B.
Editorial
Authors:   Associação Portuguesa de Nutrição, Borges Nuno
Published: April 2024

Vivemos um tempo em que as alterações demográficas estão na ordem do dia. Podemos facilmente observá-lo no nosso dia a dia ou no centro do debate político. Como três características da evolução da estrutura etária da nossa população podemos designar a baixa natalidade, o aumento da imigração e o envelhecimento da população. Quanto a este último ponto, e segundo dados da Pordata, o nosso Índice de Envelhecimento (n.º de pessoas com 65 ou mais anos sobre o número de jovens com menos de 15 anos) era de 182,1% no censo de 2021, de 12,8 % em 2011 e de 102,2 % em 2001; em 1970 era de 34,0 %. Esta evolução tão rápida quanto drástica tem certamente várias razões para ter acontecido, mas interessa sobretudo refletir sobre como podem lidar com este fenómeno os sistemas que atualmente garantem a estabilidade das sociedades. A melhoria dos cuidados de saúde coloca aqui uma questão quase paradoxal, pois trata-se de um dos fatores mais importantes neste grande aumento da esperança média de vida, mas por outro lado a capacidade de manter estes mesmos cuidados vai sendo cada vez mais posta à prova à medida que vamos tendo uma população mais envelhecida, por força do aumento dos custos que tal implica. É neste contexto que surge, nesta edição da Acta Portuguesa de Nutrição, o trabalho de Vieira e colaboradores, acerca da intervenção nutricional em idosos com fragilidade. Não cabe a este pequeno espaço detalhar de que se trata esta fragilidade, estando aliás esta descrição cabalmente feita no artigo referido. Trata-se, resumidamente, de uma síndrome de perda geral de funcionalidade que se associa a uma diminuição significativa da saúde e da qualidade de vida. O que parece aqui interessante refletir é que, por um lado, a população portuguesa tem, quando comparada com outros países, sobretudo do norte da Europa, prevalências de fragilidade bastante elevadas e, por outro, que existe a possibilidade de, com a ajuda de uma intervenção alimentar adequada, de atenuar ou mesmo reverter esta síndrome. Ou seja, temos aqui um conjunto de circunstâncias (aumento da população idosa, alta prevalência de fragilidade e a possibilidade de recorrer à intervenção nutricional como parte muito importante do seu tratamento), que nos impele para a necessidade de encontrar novas soluções. Fica também claro da leitura do supracitado artigo que existem ainda muitas questões que, a este respeito, necessitam de mais e melhor evidência científica para que possam ser desenhadas guias de intervenção que respondam às dificuldades destes indivíduos. Para isso necessitamos de uma investigação científica profícua e de qualidade, para as quais aqui tentamos modestamente contribuir.
Sarcopenia: que relação entre a avaliação objetiva e o questionário SARC-F
Authors:   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,  Rua do Campo Alegre,  n.º 823,  4150-180 Porto, Portugal, Lino Francisca , Poínhos Rui ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,  Rua do Campo Alegre,  n.º 823,  4150-180 Porto, Portugal, Oliveira Margarida ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,  Rua do Campo Alegre,  n.º 823,  4150-180 Porto, Portugal, Martins Carina ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,  Rua do Campo Alegre,  n.º 823,  4150-180 Porto, Portugal, Ganhão-Arranhado Susana ,   Atlântica - Instituto Universitário, Fábrica da Pólvora de  Barcarena,  2730-036 Barcarena, Portugal, Pinhão Sílvia ,   Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto,  Rua do Campo Alegre,  n.º 823,  4150-180 Porto, Portugal,   Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Alameda Prof. Hernâni  Monteiro,  4200-319 Porto, Portugal, Almeida Jorge ,   Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Alameda Prof. Hernâni  Monteiro,  4200-319 Porto, Portugal
Published: April 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: A sarcopenia é uma doença que se caracteriza por um distúrbio músculo esquelético progressivo e generalizado, com impacto pessoal, social e económico, se não tratada. Associa-se a maior probabilidade de quedas, fraturas, deficiência física, mortalidade e incapacidade na realização de atividades de vida diárias. OBJETIVOS: Pretendeu-se estudar a frequência de sarcopenia em doentes internados no serviço de Medicina Interna-homens, por avaliação objetiva [força de pressão da mão, circunferência muscular do braço e perímetro geminal] e subjetiva (SARC-F) e estudar a relação entre ambas. METODOLOGIA: Avaliou-se peso (kg), estatura (m) e calculou-se o Índice de Massa Corporal (kg/m2 ), avaliou-se massa gorda e muscular com medição de pregas cutâneas e compressibilidade de tecidos (lipocalibrador digital Lipowise®) e a força de pressão da mão com o Gripwise®. RESULTADOS: Incluíram-se 150 homens, com idade média de 72 anos, Índice de Massa Corporal médio de 24,2kg/m2, gordura corporal de 21,5%, circunferência muscular do braço de 24,7cm, perímetro geminal de 32,0cm e força de pressão da mão esquerda de 20,3kgF. Segundo o SARC-F cerca de 52% tinha sarcopenia, e quando avaliada a força de pressão da mão, circunferência muscular do braço e perímetro geminal, 91,5%, 19,5% e 42,6% tinham critério sugestivo de sarcopenia, respetivamente. Encontrou-se correlação negativa e estatisticamente significativa entre a pontuação do SARC-F e a circunferência muscular do braço (r=-0,241; p= 0,004), perímetro geminal (r=- 0,269; p= 0,001) e força de pressão da mão (r=-0,400; p <0,001). O SARC-F identificou menor número de doentes com risco de sarcopenia quando comparado à força de pressão da mão. CONCLUSÕES: Conclui-se que o SARC-F deve, idealmente, ser utilizado conjuntamente com outros critérios para uma melhor identificação de sarcopenia.
Estudo nutricional dos edulcorantes no chocolate
Authors:   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal, Gameiro Joana , Soares Inês ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal, Santos Mariana ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal, Cabral Matilde ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal, Matias Sofia ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal, Baltazar Ana ,   Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Coimbra do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro,  3046-854 Coimbra,  Portugal
Published: April 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: As preocupações crescentes sobre os efeitos do açúcar na saúde motivaram as pessoas a reduzir o seu consumo, particularmente no chocolate, com a substituição do açúcar por edulcorantes, que possuem perfil adoçante semelhante à sacarose. Embora haja controvérsia sobre os seus efeitos na saúde, várias autoridades reconhecem-nos como seguros e bem tolerados. OBJETIVOS: Analisar o valor energético e de macronutrientes dos chocolates com adição de açúcar e os adoçados com edulcorantes, caracterizar o tipo de edulcorantes utilizados e o seu impacto na saúde. METODOLOGIA: Um estudo de mercado foi realizado em supermercados portugueses físicos e online, analisando quarenta chocolates do tipo branco, leite e preto com adição de açúcar e adoçados com edulcorantes. RESULTADOS: O chocolate branco com açúcar tem maiores quantidades de gordura (23%), gordura saturada (76%), energia (11%) e açúcares (78%) do que o chocolate branco com edulcorantes. Nos chocolates preto e de leite com edulcorantes, as quantidades de energia (9,9% e 26,6%, respetivamente) e açúcares (84,9% e 96,3%, respetivamente) são mais baixas do que nos respetivos chocolates com açúcar, contudo, o valor de hidratos de carbono é superior nos chocolates com edulcorantes (12,1% e 11,8%, respetivamente). Observou-se que o maltitol era o edulcorante mais utilizado (65,2%), e que os chocolates com adoçantes são pobres na maioria dos macronutrientes e energia. No entanto, o consumo destes deve ser moderado, dado que estudos sugerem que o consumo excessivo de edulcorantes poderá contribuir para alterações metabólicas. CONCLUSÕES: Devido aos possíveis riscos de saúde que os edulcorantes podem trazer, limitar o seu consumo seria a melhor recomendação. No entanto, esta pode ser difícil de implementar quando o desejo pelo sabor doce pode ser um comportamento geneticamente predeterminado.
Eficácia da suplementação nutricional em pacientes com feridas crónicas: revisão narrativa
Authors:   Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS),  Av. Ipiranga, 6681 -  Partenon, Porto Alegre  - RS,  90619-900 Predio 12/  8.º andar sala 804-04,  Brasil, Braga-da-Silveira Julia , Gonçalves Claro Giovana ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS),  Av. Ipiranga, 6681 -  Partenon, Porto Alegre  - RS,  90619-900 Predio 12/  8.º andar sala 804-04,  Brasil, Bardini Goulart Lincólin ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS),  Av. Ipiranga, 6681 -  Partenon, Porto Alegre  - RS,  90619-900 Predio 12/  8.º andar sala 804-04,  Brasil, Tavares de Oliveira Vinicius ,   Universidade Paulista (UNIP), Av. Paulista, 900 - Bela  Vista,  São Paulo - SP, 01311-000,  Brasil, Eduardo Poli-de-Figueiredo Carlos ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS),  Av. Ipiranga, 6681 -  Partenon, Porto Alegre  - RS,  90619-900 Predio 12/  8.º andar sala 804-04,  Brasil, Viviane Baron Miriam ,   Instituto Interdisciplinar de Educação, Ciência e Saúde (IIECS), Pontifícia  Universidade Católica  do Rio Grande do Sul  (PUCRS),  Av. Ipiranga, 6681 -  Partenon, Porto Alegre  - RS,  90619-900 Predio 12/  8.º andar sala 804-04,  Brasil
Published: April 2024

INTRODUÇÃO: As feridas crónicas constituem um problema de saúde pública mundial, desafiando os profissionais da área médica em sua busca incessante por soluções eficazes. A cicatrização dessas lesões complexas é um processo multifacetado que requer uma abordagem abrangente, na qual a nutrição desempenha um papel crucial. O objetivo desta revisão é verificar a eficácia de suplementos alimentares na cicatrização de feridas crónicas. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa da literatura. As buscas dos estudos relevantes foram realizadas nas principais bases de dados online utilizando as palavras chaves “Dietary Supplements”, “Wounds and Injuries”, “Wound Healing”. Foram incluídos artigos publicados nos últimos 10 anos, com indivíduos com idade maior ou igual a 18 anos, publicados em português, espanhol ou inglês. RESULTADOS: Na busca inicial foram detetados 1318 artigos, após a triagem inicial, 12 foram incluídos, abordando as evidências da suplementação alimentar em pacientes com feridas crónicas. CONCLUSÕES: A suplementação oral de nutrientes, como arginina, zinco, selênio, magnésio, vitaminas A, C e E, beta-hidroxi-beta-metilbutirato e probióticos, apresenta potencial na promoção da cicatrização de feridas em pacientes com feridas crónicas. É importante ressaltar que estudos com amostras maiores e metodologias mais robustas são necessários para comprovar sua eficácia e orientar a prática clínica.
Perinatal Risk Factors for Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Hwang Se Hwan , Shin Hyesoo , Stybayeva Gulnaz , Kim Do Hyun
Published: April 2024

Objectives. In this study, we evaluated the associations between birth-related exposures, postnatal factors, and the risk of allergic rhinitis and asthma in children and adolescents.Methods. We performed a comprehensive search of five literature databases up to May 2023. To quantify the associations of birth-related exposures (birth weight, delivery mode, prematurity, sex, maternal age, and parental allergy history) and postnatal factors (birth order, number of siblings, breastfeeding exclusivity, and breastfeeding duration) with allergic disease, we calculated pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. We conducted subgroup analyses for allergic disease type, birth order, number of siblings, and parental allergy history. The methodological quality of the identified studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.Results. This meta-analysis included 31 studies, encompassing 218,899 patients in total. The birth-related exposures of low birth weight, maternal age, and prematurity (less than 37 weeks gestation) were not significantly associated with the risk of asthma or allergic rhinitis during childhood or adolescence. Male sex, family history of allergy, and cesarean delivery were linked to an elevated risk of asthma or allergic rhinitis. Among postnatal factors, exclusive breastfeeding, breastfeeding for longer than 6 months, second or later birth order, and having siblings exhibited protective effects against allergic diseases in offspring.Conclusion. The risks of allergic rhinitis and asthma were elevated in male patients, those delivered by cesarean section, and those with a family history of allergy. Conversely, exclusive breastfeeding, breastfeeding for longer than 6 months, and having siblings corresponded to a reduced risk of respiratory allergic diseases.
Prevalencia de pigmentaciones exógenas y caries por ingesta de suplementos férricos en dentición primaria
Authors: Berrocal-Oblitas Javier , Perona-Miguel de Priego Guido A. , Huamán-Palacios Mónica M.
Published: April 2024

Objetivo: El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de pigmentaciones negras extrínsecas en dentición primaria y su relación con la caries dental en niños de 3 a 5 años. Materiales y métodos: El diseño del estudio fue descriptivo, prospectivo, transversal y observacional; la muestra estuvo constituida por 79 niños que recibían tratamiento con sulfato ferroso, a los cuales se les realizó un examen clínico y un odontograma. Para determinar la presencia de pigmentaciones negras extrínsecas, se utilizó la clasificación de Shourie. Resultados: Se encontró una baja prevalencia de pigmentaciones extrínsecas de 7,6%. y los niños con pigmentaciones extrínsecas presentaron un Ceod de 9,83+-3,601, mientras que aquellos niños sin la presencia de pigmentaciones tienen un Ceod de 4,60+-3,248. Conclusiones: Se encontró una relación significativa entre el índice Ceod y las pigmentaciones negras extrínsecas (p < 0,001).
Hiperplasia bilateral de la apófisis coronoides en paciente adolescente. Reporte de caso
Authors: Fernández Gustavo , Hernández-Andara Adalsa , Manresa Carlos , Ortega-Pertuz Ana Isabel
Published: April 2024

Hyperplasia of the coronoid process is a rare alteration that is characterized by the exaggerated and progressive development of said process over periods of months or years, both in height and volume, which finally causes mandibular hypomobility. It is important to highlight the importance of imaging for the correct diagnosis and treatment of said entity, taking into consideration the great variety of differential diagnoses that can occur. In this sense, conventional radiographs constitute a basic and indispensable tool for approaching the diagnosis. However, it is actually the CT scan that offers the greatest precision. The case of a 14-year-old male patient is presented, with no contributing medical history, who was referred for presenting progressive opening limitation since childhood, for which, after clinical and imaging evaluation, he was treated with total bilateral coronoidectomy, postoperative follow-up was performed. for a year in which recurrence of said entity could be observed. This case demonstrates the importance of correct diagnosis, as well as postoperative control and the rehabilitation scheme carried out by the patient.
hUCMSC-derived Exosomes promote spinal cord repair by alleviating the disruption of the blood-spinal cord barrier
Authors: Lian Xiaofeng , Chen Zhiheng , Wu Shengting , Qian Yuxuan , Wu Yinghao , Wang Xin , Lu Fengjie , Xu Jianguang
Published: April 2024

After spinal cord injury (SCI), the integrity of the blood–spinal cord barrier (BSCB) is closely related to the occurrence of secondary injury and functional recovery. Previous studies have shown that exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSC-exos) promote nerve repair in multiple degenerative neurological diseases. However, it remains largely elusive whether hUCMSC-exos can promote spinal cord repair after SCI. In this study, hUCMSC-exos were injected through the tail vein immediately after the successful establishment of SCI in a rat model. We showed that the loss of neurons and the destruction of pathological structures were significantly reduced after hUCMSC-exos treatment, and the motor function of rats was also greatly improved. Mechanistically, hUCMSC-exos promote spinal cord repair by affecting autophagy and BSCB integrity. In vitro, the expression of BSCB-associated proteins in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) was significantly reduced in the OGD model, and this reduction was significantly mitigated by treatment with hUCMSC-exos. In addition, autophagic flux was significantly activated after OGD, and hUCMSC-exos treatment further activated autophagic flux. When this process was inhibited by 3-MA (an autophagy inhibitor), the protective effect of hUCMSC-exos was significantly reversed both in vivo and in vitro. These findings suggest that hUCMSC-exos reduce the permeability of the BSCB and promote functional recovery after SCI by activating autophagic flux in endothelial cells. Our study is the first to demonstrate the protective effect of hUCMSC-exos on the BSCB and the underlying mechanism, shedding light on the potential therapeutic benefit for SCI.
Recent HIV-1 Infection Epidemiological Trends and Associated Factors among Newly Identified Positives in Oromia, Ethiopia: Case Surveillance data (2019-2022)
Authors: Layessa Achalu , Feyissa Zinabu , Degfie Tizita Tilahun , Hunde Dejene , Kebede Tolossa , Bayou Getahun , Mekonne Yonas , Tafere Kefyalew , Befikadu Chala , Kenate Birhanu , Gobena Dabesa
Published: April 2024

Introduction: As countries progress their HIV responses, a robust surveillance system is mandatory. Reaching targets set for 2030 is impossible unless innovations are used. Antibody test for recency infection is one among them, and it distinguishes recent from long-term infections. Ethiopia started HIV case surveillance with recency testing in June 2019. However, data gathered through it wasn’t thoroughly analyzed and used for the response accordingly. Therefore, this study assessed recent HIV-1 infection epidemiological trends and associated factors among newly identified positives in Oromia. Method: HIV Case surveillance excel data was downloaded and exported from the regional REDCap database; cleaned and imported to SPSS 24. Descriptive and binary logistic regression analyses were computed. Variables with P-values of ≤ 0.20 were selected, and added for multivariable logistic regression analysis. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Crudes and AORs with 95% CI were calculated.Results: Of 13,706 cases, 1,219(8.9%) were recent. High proportions were observed among females (72.8%), daily laborers (31.8%) and FSWs (22.6.%). Recent infection was significantly associated with age groups of 15-24 years AOR 2.03 (95% CI:1.53-2.59), 25-34 AOR 1.48 (95% CI: 1.17-1.87) and 35-44 years AOR 1.45(95% CI:1.14-1.85), never married AOR 1.76 (95% CI, 1.48-2.09), divorced/separated 1.42(95% CI: 1.19-1.69), widowed AOR 1.51(95% CI: 1.18-1.93), and paid/received gifts for sex AOR 4.11(95% CI: 1.02-16.57).Conclusion: Certain age groups, sexes and occupations with known risk behaviors had high proportions of recent infections. Hence, Sexual and Reproductive Health that specifically targets these groups is mandatory, along with continuous community awareness creation.
Can COVID-19 Lead to Differences in COPD Patients' Exacerbations and Clinical Evolution?
Authors: Manzano Carlos , Benitez Ivan D , Santisteve Sally , Monge Aida , Moncusí-Moix Anna , Gort-Paniello Clara , Torres Gerard , Barbé Ferran , González Jessica , Batlle Jordi
Published: April 2024

Background
COPD patients show higher mortality and worse prognosis in the acute phase of COVID-19, and survivors may suffer persistent symptoms that could make them more vulnerable to exacerbations.
Objectives
We aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the exacerbations, symptoms, quality of life, and mental health of a cohort of COPD patients.
Methods
Retrospective case-control single-centre study including all COPD patients from the pulmonary consultation of University Hospital Santa Maria (Lleida, Spain) surviving COVID-19 between March 2020 and September 2021, and similar propensity-score-matched (1:2) COPD patients. Differences in COPD exacerbations, COPD clinical evolution (lung function, dyspnoea, CAT and symptoms), long COVID-19 symptoms, quality of life, and mental health, were assessed at the end of 2021.
Results
We included 39 COVID-19 COPD patients and 78 similar non-COVID-19. No differences were found on exacerbations (46(59%) vs 27(69.2%), p = 0.380), dyspnoea (2 [1; 3] vs 2 [1; 3], p = 0.921) CAT (14.5 [10.0; 18.8] vs 13.0 [10.0; 16.0], p = 0.432). Only the prevalence of smell or taste disorders, hair loss and tingling was higher in COVID-19 patients. No differences were found in quality of life or mental health.
Conclusions
COPD patients surviving COVID-19 were not at a higher risk of COPD exacerbations nor showed significant changes in COPD clinical evolution, and only showed differences in a few very specific COVID-19 symptoms. These unexpected results suggest that the conditions triggered by the pandemic and its management could have affected COPD patients as much as actually having had COVID-19.
Inferring single-cell and spatial microRNA activity from transcriptomics data
Authors: Herbst Efrat , Mandel-Gutfreund Yael , Yakhini Zohar , Biran Hadas
Published: April 2024

The activity of miRNA varies across different cell populations and systems, as part of the mechanisms that distinguish cell types and roles in living organisms and in human health and disease.
Typically, miRNA regulation drives changes in the composition and levels of protein coding RNA and of lncRNA, with targets being down-regulated when miRNAs are active.
The term "miRNA activity" is used to refer to this transcriptional effect of miRNAs.

This study introduces miTEA-HiRes, a method designed to facilitate the evaluation of miRNA activity at high resolution.
The method applies to single cell transcriptomics, type-specific single cell populations, and spatial transcriptomics data.
By comparing different conditions, differential miRNA activity is inferred.
For instance, miTEA-HiRes analysis of PBMCs comparing MS patients to control groups revealed differential activity of miR-20a-5p and others, consistent with literature on miRNA underexpression in MS. We also show miR-519a-3p differential activity in specific cell populations.
Ferroptosis and HMGB2 induced calreticulin translocation required for immunogenic cell death are controlled by the nuclear exporter XPO1
Authors: Blair Ian , Fan jingqi , Gillespie Kevin , Mesaros Clementina
Published: April 2024

Cisplatin and oxaliplatin cause the secretion of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) from cancer cells, which is necessary for initiation of immunogenic cell death (ICD). Calreticulin (CRT) translocation from the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane is also required; oxaliplatin induces this translocation but cisplatin does not. We have discovered that oxaliplatin causes the secretion of both HMGB1 and HMGB2 from the nucleus into the extracellular milieu. We previously showed that cisplatin mediated secretion of HMGB1 is controlled by the nuclear exporter XPO1 (chromosomal maintenance 1; CRM1). We now find that XPO1 regulates oxaliplatin mediated secretion of both HMGB1 and HMGB2. XPO1 inhibition causes nuclear accumulation of both proteins, inhibition of oxaliplatin-mediated ferroptosis of colon cancer cells, and inhibition of CRT translocation to the plasma membrane of lung and colon cancer cells. Incubation of cancer cells with cell targeted (CT)-HMGB2 confirmed that HMGB2 is responsible for translocation of CRT to the plasma membrane. CT-HMGB2 is three orders of magnitude more potent than oxaliplatin at inducing CRT translocation. Inhibition of HMGB1 and HMGB2 secretion and/or their activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) has potential utility for treating cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases; whereas CT-HMGB2 could augment therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment.
Radiation therapy inhibits breast cancer brain metastasis by mediating the SHP2 signaling pathway to enhance the cGAS/Sting signaling pathway
Authors: Cong Wang , Zhang Zhilin , Li Jinqiu , Pang Yongpeng , Li Ruibiao , Song Xiao , Xi Qiang , Ma Huan
Published: April 2024

Objective To explore the molecular mechanisms of radiation therapy's effect on brain metastases from breast cancer. Methods The impact of radiation therapy on brain metastatic breast cancer cells was detected using H&E staining, CT scans, and MRI image fusion; the effect of radiation therapy with hippocampal avoidance on cognitive function and treatment efficacy in patients was evaluated; mice with brain metastasis from breast cancer were divided into control and radiation therapy groups, western blotting was conducted to examine the effects on SHP2, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial autophagy, and apoptosis-related proteins; CCK-8 assay and colony formation experiments were used to evaluate the effect of radiation therapy on the proliferative capacity of breast cancer, and xenograft tumor models in nude mice were used to assess the impact of radiation therapy on breast cancer progression. Results The hippocampus protection group could mitigate the metastasis of breast cancer cells and the pressure on the hippocampus, improving cognitive functions and effectiveness of the treatment. Radiation therapy reduced the pressure of cancer cells on the hippocampus as well as the relative protein expression of p-SHP2, SHP2, and PD-1. In breast cancer cells, radiation therapy could inhibit the expression of p-STAT3, PD-L1, and mitochondrial autophagy-related proteins through SHP2, thereby promoting the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis-related proteins. Moreover, radiation therapy could suppress the proliferation capacity of breast cancer cells and the progression of breast cancer through SHP2. Conclusion Radiation therapy inhibits the progress of breast cancer brain metastasis by mediating the SHP2 signaling pathway to enhance the cGAS/Sting signaling pathway.
Evaluating the level of total mercury present in the soils of a renowned tea production region
Authors: Xu Jinghua , Feng Ying , Xie Ruijia , Li Xiaofeng , Lu Yue , Huang Zhiqun , Chen Yongshan
Published: April 2024

Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant, which can be detrimental to human health, yet research on soil mercury contamination in tea gardens is scarce. This work investigated the characteristics of total mercury pollution, source analysis, and health risk assessment by obtaining representative tea garden soils from 146 villages in a celebrated tea production region that is renowned for its oolong (Wulong) tea all over the world. It was found that the soils of the tea garden contained total mercury levels ranging from 0.025 to 0.296 mg/kg, with an average of 0.112 mg/kg. The analysis showed that 67.81% of the samples were free from pollution, while 31.51% exhibited no to moderate pollution, and only 0.68% were classified as moderately polluted, based on the Soil accumulation index method. The total mercury content has a strong positive relationship with total carbon content (TC), As, Na, and V (p < 0.01), as well as a significant positive correlation with Zn (p < 0.05), and a significant negative correlation with K (p < 0.05). The Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model revealed that natural sources were the major contributor to the mercury presentence in this tea production region, making up 72.4%. The likely daily intake of mercury through tea consumption in the studied region spans from 0.011 to 0.132 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day (ug/kg bw/day), with an average intake of 0.050 ug/kg bw/day, predominantly remaining below the Hazard Quotient (HQ) threshold. The study systematically investigates the characteristics and potential hazards of soil mercury pollution in the primary Oolong tea cultivation regions, emphasizing the need for future research to assess mercury uptake in the food chain through tea consumption.
Exploring genotype × environment interaction for chickpea grain yield and related traits by a mixed model approach
Authors: Khan Abdul Manan , Ali Zulfiqar , Mohsin Ataul , Soomro Aijaz , Hussain Khalid , Rafiq Muhammad , hussain Niaz , Ahmad Qadeer , Ahmad Ishfaq , Khan Muhammad , Shaikh Muhammad , Matloob Amar , Ikram Zahid , Shabbir Ghulam , Hassan Mahmood , Waqas Muhammad Umair , Hussain Israr , Rani Saima , Malik Shahid , Rehman Ata , Ramsay Gavin , Blanchard Chris
Published: April 2024

The study of genotype × environment interaction is crucial for plant breeding to introduce new cultivars with im-proved yield and stable performance. The productivity of chickpea crops is very low in Pakistan, requiring the se-lection of genotypes with optimal productivity for diverse environmental conditions. Fourteen different chickpea genotypes were assessed using the linear mixed model to evaluate genotypes across four diverse chickpea growing regions, including Attock (Punjab), Bhakkar (Punjab), Karak (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), and Larkana during 2017-19. The environmental effect was very pronounced, contributing significantly to variation (25.8%) in grain yield. Analysing genotype × environmental interaction at multiple locations facilitates ranking superior genotypes that excel in specific or diverse environments. Notably, the genotypes viz. Fakhr-e-Thal and Bhak-kar-2011 demonstrated superior performance in terms of overall grain yield. Utilising a multi-trait stability index, Bittal-2016 and Thal-2006 emerged as the most stable genotypes across various environments, suggesting their suitability for diverse growing regions. On the other hand, for specific environmental conditions, genotypes KK-1, Noor-2013 and Fakhr e thal exhibited high yields but low stability, showcasing their adaptability to a particular environment. The The analysis revealed that Larkana is a mega environment conducive to higher yield, while At-tock, Bhakkar, and Karak were identified as less favorable for KK-3, DG-89, and Dasht. The findings hold signif-icant implications for expediting chickpea breeding efforts to improve the genotypic plasticity and understanding correlation patterns among traits to confer climatic resilience. Finding high-yielding, stable genotypes and their representative environment offers new breeding opportunities and boosts production for chickpea cultivars.
Evaluating feasibility of lower extremity joint moments predicted by an artificial intelligence model during walking in patients with cerebral palsy
Authors: Salami Firooz , Ozates Mustafa Erkam , Arslan Yunus Ziya , Wolf Sebastian Immanuel
Published: April 2024

Several studies have highlighted the advantages of employing artificial intelligence (AI) models in gait analysis. However, the practicality of AI models into clinical gait routines remains uncertain. In this study, we propose a three-step approach to evaluate the feasibility of a previously developed AI model. This model predicts joint moments during walking for 622 patients with cerebral palsy using joint kinematics as the input. Root mean square errors between lab-measured and predicted joint moments are labeled as Green (acceptable), Yellow (acceptable with caution), or Red (unacceptable). Kinematics are classified accordingly, and statistical analyses determine their impact on the AI model output. A linear discrimination analysis (LDA) model predicts labels for newly predicted joint moments based on kinematics. The knee moment showed the largest Green label population (73%), while the ankle moment has the smallest (34%). Gait profile score show significant differences between all labels except the Green vs Red for the ankle joint. The LDA model achieves75% accuracy for knee joint moment prediction, with a Green sensitivity of 94.7%. Severer patient’s condition leads to increase in Red population. While the AI model shows promise for predicting knee and hip moments, further development is necessary before its integration into clinical routines.
Advancing Dermatological Diagnosis: Development of a Hyperspectral Dermatoscope for Enhanced Skin Imaging
Authors: Hetz Martin J. , Garcia Carina Nogueira , Haggenmüller Sarah , Brinker Titus J.
Published: April 2024

Clinical dermatology necessitates precision and innovation for efficient diagnosis and treatment of various skin conditions. Thispaper introduces the development of a cutting-edge hyperspectral dermatoscope (the Hyperscope) tailored for human skinanalysis. We detail the requirements to such a device and the design considerations, from optical configurations to sensorselection, necessary to capture a wide spectral range with high fidelity. Preliminary results from 15 individuals and 160 recordedskin images demonstrate the potential of the Hyperscope in identifying and characterizing various skin conditions, offeringa promising avenue for non-invasive skin evaluation and a platform for future research in dermatology-related hyperspectralimaging.
Accurate prediction of colorectal cancer diagnosis using machine learning based on immunohistochemistry pathological images
Authors: Ning Bobin , Chi Jimei , Meng Qingyu , Jia Baoqing
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent tumor and the second leading cause of mortality. Early and accurate diagnosis holds significant importance in enhancing patient treatment and prognosis. Machine learning technology and bioinformatics have provided novel approaches for cancer diagnosis. This study aims to develop a CRC diagnostic model based on immunohistochemical staining image features using machine learning methods. Initially, CRC disease-specific genes were identified through bioinformatics analysis and Random Forest algorithm utilizing RNA-seq data from both GEO and TCGA databases. Subsequently, verification of these genes was performed using proteomics data from CPTAC and HPA database, resulting in identification of target proteins (AKR1B10, CA2, DHRS9, and ZG16) for further investigation. SVM algorithm was then employed to analyze and integrate the characteristics of immunohistochemical images to construct a reliable CRC diagnostic model. During the training and validation process of this model, cross-validation along with external validation methods were implemented to ensure accuracy and reliability. The results demonstrate that the established diagnostic model exhibits excellent performance in distinguishing between CRC and normal controls (accuracy rate: 0.999), thereby presenting potential prospects for clinical application. These findings are expected to provide innovative perspectives as well as methodologies for personalized diagnosis of CRC while offering more precise references for promising treatment.
Population-based analysis of knee joint loading in a knee osteoarthritis cohort: the impact of PCA-derived gait kinematic variations on estimated medial knee contact forces
Authors: Raimondo Giacomo Di , Willems Miel , Killen Bryce Adrian , Havashinezhadian Sara , Turcot Katia , Vanwanseele Benedicte , Jonkers Ilse
Published: April 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition leading to functional limitations, especially among the elderly. Current treatments focus on pain relief and functional improvement, however there is a lack of approaches which slow disease progression. A promising approach focusses on reducing knee joint loading, as excessive loading contributes to knee OA progression. This study explores kinematic variations in the knee OA population, utilizing principal component analysis (PCA) to examine gait variations (primitives) in both healthy individuals and those with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and their implications for knee joint loading. The KOA population exhibited 14 modes of variation representing 95% of the cumulative variance, compared to 20 in the healthy population, indicating lower variability with KOA. The relation between identified gait primitives and knee loading parameters, revealed complex relationships. Surprisingly, modes with the largest kinematic variations did not consistently correspond to the highest variations in knee loading parameters revealing degrees of freedom which may have a larger role in determining joint loading. Moreover, potential gait-retraining strategies for KOA, associating specific kinematic combinations with altered knee loading were identified. The results showed a good agreement with previously applied strategies. However, this study highlights the importance of analyzing whole-body kinematics for effective gait retraining, as opposed to focusing on one single joint variation. The study's insights contribute to understanding the intricate interplay between gait pattern variations and knee joint loading changes in healthy and KOA populations, offering practical applications for guiding interventions and estimating loading parameters