bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Hospitalization and Interventional Procedures for Cardiovascular Diseases during the First Wave in Italy
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Cante Luigi , Imbalzano Egidio , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Bottino Roberta , Carbone Andreina , D’Andrea Antonello
Published: December 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been responsible for an epidemic of devastating proportion, and it has represented a challenge for worldwide healthcare systems with the need of resources reallocation in order to face epidemic spread. Italy was one of the hardest hit countries by COVID-19, and the Italian government adopted strict rules to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as national lockdown and home quarantine; moreover, the Italian healthcare system had to rapidly re-organize the diagnostic and therapeutic pathways, with a reallocation of health resources and hospital beds, in order to manage COVID-19 patients. The aim of the present review is to provide an overview of the effects of the first pandemic wave on cardiovascular assistance in Italy with the purpose of evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the Italian health system.
A Matter of Health? A 24-Week Daily and Weekly Diary Study on Workplace Bullying Perpetrators’ Psychological and Physical Health
Authors: Özer Gülüm , Griep Yannick , Escartín Jordi
Published: December 2022

Workplace bullying (WB) studies focusing on perpetrators are increasing. Many processes, events, circumstances and individual states are being studied to understand and inhibit what causes some employees to become perpetrators. Using a 24-week diary design and drawing on the Conservation of Resources Theory, we investigated how sleep, physical activity (PA), and being bullied predicted perpetration on a within-level. On a between-level, we controlled for a supervisory position, psychological distress and mental illnesses over 38 employees from Spain and Turkey. Their average age was 38.84 years (SD = 11.75). They were from diverse sectors (15.8% in manufacturing, 15.8% in education, 13.2% in wholesale and retail trade, 13.2% in information and communication, 7.9% in health, 7.9% in other services and 26.3% from other sectors) with diverse professions such as finance manager, psychologist, graphic designer, academic, human resources professional, forensic doctor, IT and Administration head, municipality admin executive, waiter, and sales executives. Data collection was conducted over 24 consecutive work weeks, where only 31 participants were involved in perpetration (final observations = 720). We analyzed the data using multilevel structural equation modeling decomposed into within-and-between-person variance parts. The results indicated that on a within-level, PA as steps taken during the work week and being bullied positively predicted perpetration the same week, while sleep quality did not. By connecting sleep, physical exercise and WB literature, we draw attention to the health condition of perpetrators. Organizations should actively inhibit workplace bullying and be mindful of employees’ physical activities at work or commuting to work. Managers should also be attentive to physical fatigue that employees may feel due to their responsibilities in their private lives and allow employees to rest and recuperate to inhibit negative behaviors at work.
School Nurse Perspectives of Working with Children and Young People in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Survey Study
Authors: Sammut Dana , Cook Georgia , Taylor Julie , Harrold Tikki , Appleton Jane , Bekaert Sarah
Published: December 2022

School nurses are public health specialists with an integral role in the safeguarding of children and young people. This study gathered information about school nurses’ approaches to overcome practice restrictions as a result of COVID-19. A cross-sectional survey was administered to school nurses across the United Kingdom. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Qualitative data (free-text responses to open-ended questions) were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Seventy-eight participant responses were included in the analysis. Quantitative data highlighted increased workloads; decreased contact with service users; and difficulties in identifying safeguarding needs and working with known vulnerable children. Through qualitative data analysis, five themes were identified: a move from preventive to reactive school nursing; professional challenges of safeguarding in the digital context; the changing nature of inter-professional working; an increasing workload; and reduced visibility and representation of the child. The findings call for advocacy by policymakers and professional organisations representing school nurses to enable this professional group to lead in the evolving public health landscape; for commissioning that recognises the school nurse as a specialist public health practitioner; and for sufficient numbers of school nurses to respond to the emergent and ongoing health needs of children and young people.
Association between Environmental Cadmium Exposure and Osteoporosis Risk in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kunioka Carlos Tadashi , Manso Maria Conceição , Carvalho Márcia
Published: December 2022

Osteoporosis is a common and serious health issue among postmenopausal women. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis study to determine whether environmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) is a risk factor for postmenopausal osteoporosis. A PROSPERO-registered review of the literature was performed on studies evaluating the relationship between urinary Cd (UCd) concentration, an indicator of long-term Cd exposure, and bone mineral density or osteoporosis in women aged 50 years and older. PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science, and B-on databases were searched for articles published between 2008 and 2021. The association between UCd levels and osteoporosis risk was assessed by pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) using random-effect models. Ten cross-sectional studies were included in the qualitative analysis, of which five were used for meta-analysis. We separately assessed the risk of osteoporosis in women exposed to Cd at low environmental levels (n = 5895; UCd ≥ 0.5 μg/g creatinine versus UCd < 0.5 μg/g creatinine) and high environmental levels (n = 1864; UCd ≥ 5 μg/g creatinine versus UCd < 5 μg/g creatinine). The pooled OR for postmenopausal osteoporosis was 1.95 (95% CI: 1.39–2.73, p < 0.001) in the low exposure level group and 1.99 (95% CI: 1.04–3.82, p = 0.040) in the high exposure level group. This study indicates that environmental Cd exposure, even at low levels, may be a risk factor for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Further research based on prospective studies is needed to validate these findings.
Work–Life Balance and Mental and Physical Health among Warsaw Specialists, Managers and Entrepreneurs
Authors: Borowiec Agnieszka A. , Drygas Wojciech
Published: December 2022

Many studies have shown that low work–life balance (WLB) can be harmful to health. Poland is a country with one of the lowest indicators on the WLB scale among European countries but there are only a few studies about the connection between WLB and health. The present analysis aimed to answer the questions of whether the lower WLB among Warsaw’s middle class correlates with poorer mental and physical health, and what life orientations and values typical of the middle class are related to work–life balance. Two surveys were conducted in the years 2003 and 2013 on the quota samples of 500 members of the Warsaw middle class: specialists, managers, and entrepreneurs. The current analysis has indicated the connection between a lower level of WLB and worse mental and physical health. Some middle-class life orientations are connected with a high WLB. The relationship between WLB and health was stronger in 2013 than in 2003. It can be considered a result of mentality and lifestyle changes and generational renewal. The study should be repeated in 2023 after the COVID-19 pandemic as the work situation of the middle class may have changed.
Effects of Ground Subsidence on Vegetation Chlorophyll Content in Semi-Arid Mining Area: From Leaf Scale to Canopy Scale
Authors: Yang Xingchen , Lei Shaogang , Shi Yunxi , Wang Weizhong
Published: December 2022

Ground subsidence is the main cause of vegetation degradation in mining areas. It is of great significance to study the effects of ground subsidence on vegetation. At present, few studies have analyzed the effects of ground subsidence on vegetation from different scales. However, the conclusions on different scales may differ. In this experiment, chlorophyll content was used as an indicator of vegetation degradation. We conducted a long-term field survey in the Lijiahao coalfield in China. Based on field survey data and remote sensing images, we analyzed the effects of ground subsidence on chlorophyll content from two scales (leaf scale and canopy scale) and summarized the similarities and differences. We found that, regardless of leaf scale or canopy scale, the effects of subsidence on chlorophyll content have the following three characteristics: (1) mining had the least effect on chlorophyll content in the neutral area, followed by the compression area, and the greatest effect on chlorophyll content in the extension area; (2) subsidence had a slight effect on chlorophyll content of Caragana korshins, but a serious effect on chlorophyll content of Stipa baicalensis; (3) chlorophyll content was not immediately affected when the ground sank. It was the cumulative subsidence that affects chlorophyll content. The difference between leaf scale and canopy scale was that the chlorophyll content at canopy scale is more affected by mining. This means that when assessing vegetation degradation, the results obtained by remote sensing were more severe than those measured in the field. We believe that this is because the canopy chlorophyll content obtained by remote sensing is also affected by the plant canopy structure. We recommend that mining and ecological restoration should be carried out concurrently, and that ground fissures should be taken as the focus of ecological restoration. In addition, Caragana korshins ought to be widely planted. Most importantly, managers should assess the effects of ground subsidence on vegetation on different scales. However, managers need to be aware of differences at different scales.
Nutrients and Environmental Factors Cross Wavelet Analysis of River Yi in East China: A Multi-Scale Approach
Authors: Wang Lizhi , Song Hongli , An Juan , Dong Bin , Wu Xiyuan , Wu Yuanzhi , Wang Yun , Li Bao , Liu Qianjin , Yu Wanni
Published: December 2022

The accumulation of nutrients in rivers is a major cause of eutrophication, and the change in nutrient content is affected by a variety of factors. Taking the River Yi as an example, this study used wavelet analysis tools to examine the periodic changes in nutrients and environmental factors, as well as the relationship between nutrients and environmental factors. The results revealed that total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+–N) exhibit multiscale oscillation features, with the dominating periods of 16–17, 26, and 57–60 months. The continuous wavelet transform revealed periodic fluctuation laws on multiple scales between nutrients and several environmental factors. Wavelet transform coherence (WTC) was performed on nutrients and environmental factors, and the results showed that temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) have a strong influence on nutrient concentration fluctuation. The WTC revealed a weak correlation between pH and TP. On a longer period, however, pH was positively correlated with TN. The flow was found to be positively correct with N and P, while N and P were found to be negatively correct with DO and electrical conductance (EC) at different scales. In most cases, TP was negatively correlated with 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and permanganate index (CODMn). The correlation between TN and CODMn and BOD5 was limited, and no clear dominant phase emerged. In a nutshell, wavelet analysis revealed that water temperature, pH, DO, flow, EC, CODMn, and BOD5 had a pronounced influence on nutrient concentration in the River Yi at different time scales. In the case of the combination of environmental factors, pH and DO play the largest role in determining nutrient concentration.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Chinese Version of Mild Cognitive Impairment Questionnaire among Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Dai Qingmin , Su Hong , Zhou Zanhua , Li Caifu , Zou Jihua , Zhou Ying , Song Rhayun , Liu Yang , Xu Lijuan , Zhou Yuqiu
Published: December 2022

Background: There is a lack of instruments for measuring quality of life (QOL) in Chinese patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study aimed to translate the Mild Cognitive Questionnaire (MCQ) into the Chinese language and to evaluate the reliability and construct validity of the MCQ-Chinese among older adults with MCI. Methods: Linguistic translation and validation of the questionnaire were conducted according to the MCQ developer and Oxford University Innovation guidelines. After a pilot test, the final version of the MCQ-Chinese was applied to a convenience sample of older adults with MCI (n = 186). Cronbach’s alpha and confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess the reliability and construct validity of the MCQ-Chinese. In addition, non-parametric analysis was used to assess convergent and discriminant validity. Results: The total scale and all the factors had good internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.90 to 0.92. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated satisfactory goodness of fit for the 2-factor MCQ. The MCQ-Chinese had a good convergent validity, and the discriminant validity was confirmed with a significant difference in MCQ scores in different health conditions. Conclusions: MCQ-Chinese is a reliable tool for assessing QOL among Chinese older adults with MCI.
Functional Dentition, Chronic Periodontal Disease and Frailty in Older Adults—A Narrative Review
Authors: Yan Gabriel Lee Keng , Tan Mei Na , Wong Mun Loke , Tay Chong Meng , Allen Patrick Finbarr
Published: December 2022

Background: The likelihood of experiencing the impact of chronic disease rises with age, and cumulative functional deficits over time increase the risk of frailty in older adults. The exact causes of frailty are not clear, and research is needed to identify appropriate intervention measures to reduce risk of developing frailty in old age. Objective: To review the evidence on the relationship between frailty, dental status and chronic periodontitis and to determine if improvements in oral health of older adults can contribute to reversal of frailty. Results: The oral cavity is the entry point to the gastro-intestinal tract, and natural teeth facilitate efficient mastication of food prior to swallowing and subsequent digestion. The loss of natural teeth, which is gradual and cumulative over the life course, is associated with diminished nutritional intake, especially in older adults. Furthermore, chronic periodontitis has been postulated as a risk factor for frailty. The evidence supporting a strong relationship between oral health status and frailty is not clearcut. Cross sectional studies suggest an association with missing teeth and chronic periodontal inflammation. However, there are very few longitudinal studies and accordingly, it is not currently possible to claim a causal relationship. As yet, there is no evidence to suggest that improvements in oral health contribute to reversal of frailty. Conclusion: Longitudinal studies with robust designs are required to better inform the relationship across functional dentition, chronic periodontitis and frailty in older adults.
Ladinin 1 Shortens Survival via Promoting Proliferation and Enhancing Invasiveness in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chang Chao-Yuan , Huang Yung-Chi , Chiang Hung-Hsing , Wu Yu-Yuan , Wu Kuan-Li , Chang Yung-Yun , Liu Lian-Xiu , Tsai Ying-Ming , Hsu Ya-Ling
Published: December 2022

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, including in Taiwan. The poor prognosis of the advanced lung cancer lies in delayed diagnosis and non-druggable targets. It is worth paying more attention to these ongoing issues. Public databases and an in-house cohort were used for validation. The KM plotter was utilized to discover the clinical significance. GSEA and GSVA were adopted for a functional pathway survey. Molecular biological methods, including proliferation, migration, and the EMT methods, were used for verification. Based on public databases, the increased expression of Ladinin 1 (LAD1) was presented in tumor and metastatic sites. Furthermore, an in-house cohort revealed a higher intensity of LAD1 in tumor rather than in normal parts. The greater the expression of LAD1 was, the shorter the duration of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patient survival. Moreover, the association of B3GNT3 with LAD1 affected the survival of LUAD patients. Functional analyses using GSEA and GSVA revealed the associations with survival, migration, invasion, and EMT. Biologic functions supported the roles of LAD1 in proliferation via the cell cycle and migration in EMT. This study reveals that LAD1 plays a major role in regulating proliferation and migration in lung cancer and impacts survival in LUAD. It is worth investing in further studies and in the development of drugs targeting LAD1.
Circulating Extracellular Vesicles Impair Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Differentiation Favoring Adipogenic Rather than Osteogenic Differentiation in Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Peruzzi Barbara , Urciuoli Enrica , Mariani Michela , Chioma Laura , Tomao Luigi , Montano Ilaria , Algeri Mattia , Luciano Rosa , Fintini Danilo , Manco Melania
Published: December 2022

Excess body weight has been considered beneficial to bone health because of its anabolic effect on bone formation; however, this results in a poor quality bone structure. In this context, we evaluated the involvement of circulating extracellular vesicles in the impairment of the bone phenotype associated with obesity. Circulating extracellular vesicles were collected from the plasma of participants with normal weight, as well as overweight and obese participants, quantified by flow cytometry analysis and used to treat mesenchymal stromal cells and osteoblasts to assess their effect on cell differentiation and activity. Children with obesity had the highest amount of circulating extracellular vesicles compared to controls. The treatment of mesenchymal stromal cells with extracellular vesicles from obese participants led to an adipogenic differentiation in comparison to vesicles from controls. Mature osteoblasts treated with extracellular vesicles from obese participants showed a reduction in differentiation markers in comparison to controls. Children with obesity who regularly performed physical exercise had a lower circulating extracellular vesicle amount in comparison to those with a sedentary lifestyle. This pilot study demonstrates how the high amount of circulating extracellular vesicles in children with obesity affects the bone phenotype and that physical activity can partially rescue this phenotype.
Biochemical, Clinical, and Genetic Characteristics of Mexican Patients with Primary Hypertriglyceridemia, Including the First Case of Hyperchylomicronemia Syndrome Due to GPIHBP1 Deficiency
Authors: Rodríguez-Gutiérrez Perla Graciela , Colima-Fausto Ana Gabriela , Zepeda-Olmos Paola Montserrat , Hernández-Flores Teresita de Jesús , González-García Juan Ramón , Magaña-Torres María Teresa
Published: December 2022

Primary hypertriglyceridemia (PHTG) is characterized by a high concentration of triglycerides (TG); it is divided between familial hyperchylomicronemia syndrome and multifactorial chylomicronemia syndrome. In Mexico, hypertriglyceridemia constitutes a health problem in which the genetic bases have been scarcely explored; therefore, our objective was to describe biochemical–clinical characteristics and variants in the APOA5, GPIHBP1, LMF1, and LPL genes in patients with primary hypertriglyceridemia. Thirty DNA fragments were analyzed using PCR and Sanger sequencing in 58 unrelated patients. The patients’ main clinical–biochemical features were hypoalphalipoproteinemia (77.6%), pancreatitis (18.1%), and a TG median value of 773.9 mg/dL. A total of 74 variants were found (10 in APOA5, 16 in GPIHBP1, 34 in LMF1, and 14 in LPL), of which 15 could be involved in the development of PHTG: 3 common variants with significative odds and 12 heterozygous rare pathogenic variants distributed in 12 patients. We report on the first Mexican patient with hyperchylomicronemia syndrome due to GPIHBP1 deficiency caused by three variants: p.R145*, p.A154_G155insK, and p.A154Rfs*152. Moreover, eleven patients were heterozygous for the rare variants described as causing PHTG and also presented common variants of risk, which could partially explain their phenotype. In terms of findings, two novel genetic variants, c.-40_-22del LMF1 and p.G242Dfs*10 LPL, were identified.
Heavy Metals and Essential Metals Are Associated with Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Babić Leko Mirjana , Mihelčić Matej , Jurasović Jasna , Nikolac Perković Matea , Španić Ena , Sekovanić Ankica , Orct Tatjana , Zubčić Klara , Langer Horvat Lea , Pleić Nikolina , Kiđemet-Piskač Spomenka , Vogrinc Željka , Pivac Nela , Diana Andrea , Borovečki Fran , Hof Patrick R. , Šimić Goran
Published: December 2022

Various metals have been associated with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), principally heavy metals that are environmental pollutants (such as As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) and essential metals whose homeostasis is disturbed in AD (such as Cu, Fe, and Zn). Although there is evidence of the involvement of these metals in AD, further research is needed on their mechanisms of toxicity. To further assess the involvement of heavy and essential metals in AD pathogenesis, we compared cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarkers to macro- and microelements measured in CSF and plasma. We tested if macro- and microelements’ concentrations (heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Tl), essential metals (Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Co, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Mo), essential non-metals (B, P, S, and Se), and other non-essential metals (Al, Ba, Li, and Sr)) are associated with CSF AD biomarkers that reflect pathological changes in the AD brain (amyloid β1–42, total tau, phosphorylated tau isoforms, NFL, S100B, VILIP-1, YKL-40, PAPP-A, and albumin). We used inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) to determine macro- and microelements in CSF and plasma, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to determine protein biomarkers of AD in CSF. This study included 193 participants (124 with AD, 50 with mild cognitive impairment, and 19 healthy controls). Simple correlation, as well as machine learning algorithms (redescription mining and principal component analysis (PCA)), demonstrated that levels of heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Tl), essential metals (Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, K, and Zn), and essential non-metals (P, S, and Se) are positively associated with CSF phosphorylated tau isoforms, VILIP-1, S100B, NFL, and YKL-40 in AD.
Neuronal and Glial Communication via Non-Coding RNAs: Messages in Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Marangon Davide , Castro e Silva Juliana Helena , Lecca Davide
Published: December 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been increasingly recognized as essential players in cell communication in many organs and systems, including the central nervous system (CNS). A proper interaction between neural cells is fundamental in the regulation of neurophysiological processes and its alteration could induce several pathological phenomena, such as neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and demyelination. EVs contain and transfer complex molecular cargoes typical of their cells of origin, such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and metabolites to recipient cells. EVs are also enriched in non-coding RNAs (e.g., microRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNA), which were formerly considered as cell-intrinsic regulators of CNS functions and pathologies, thus representing a new layer of regulation in the cell-to-cell communication. In this review, we summarize the most recent and advanced studies on the role of EV-derived ncRNAs in the CNS. First, we report the potential of neural stem cell-derived ncRNAs as new therapeutic tools for neurorepair. Then, we discuss the role of neuronal ncRNAs in regulating glia activation, and how alteration in glial ncRNAs influences neuronal survival and synaptic functions. We conclude that EV-derived ncRNAs can act as intercellular signals in the CNS to either propagate neuroinflammatory waves or promote reparative functions.
Overexpression of ZmDHN15 Enhances Cold Tolerance in Yeast and Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Nannan , Fan Xuhong , Wang Chunlai , Jiao Peng , Jiang Zhenzhong , Ma Yiyong , Guan Shuyan , Liu Siyan
Published: December 2022

Maize (Zea mays L.) originates from the subtropical region and is a warm-loving crop affected by low-temperature stress. Dehydrin (DHN) protein, a member of the Group 2 LEA (late embryogenesis abundant proteins) family, plays an important role in plant abiotic stress. In this study, five maize DHN genes were screened based on the previous transcriptome sequencing data in our laboratory, and we performed sequence analysis and promoter analysis on these five DHN genes. The results showed that the promoter region has many cis-acting elements related to cold stress. The significantly upregulated ZmDHN15 gene has been further screened by expression pattern analysis. The subcellular localization results show that ZmDHN15 fusion protein is localized in the cytoplasm. To verify the role of ZmDHN15 in cold stress, we overexpressed ZmDHN15 in yeast and Arabidopsis. We found that the expression of ZmDHN15 can significantly improve the cold resistance of yeast. Under cold stress, ZmDHN15-overexpressing Arabidopsis showed lower MDA content, lower relative electrolyte leakage, and less ROS (reactive oxygen species) when compared to wild-type plants, as well as higher seed germination rate, seedling survival rate, and chlorophyll content. Furthermore, analysis of the expression patterns of ROS-associated marker genes and cold-response-related genes indicated that ZmDHN15 genes play an important role in the expression of these genes. In conclusion, the overexpression of the ZmDHN15 gene can effectively improve the tolerance to cold stress in yeast and Arabidopsis. This study is important for maize germplasm innovation and the genetic improvement of crops.
A Novel Look at Dosage-Sensitive Sex Locus Xp21.2 in a Case of 46,XY Partial Gonadal Dysgenesis without NR0B1 Duplication
Authors: Francese-Santos Ana Paula , Meinel Jakob A. , Piveta Cristiane S. C. , Andrade Juliana G. R. , Barros Beatriz A. , Fabbri-Scallet Helena , Gil-da-Silva-Lopes Vera Lúcia , Guerra-Junior Gil , Künstner Axel , Busch Hauke , Hiort Olaf , de Mello Maricilda P. , Werner Ralf , Maciel-Guerra Andréa T.
Published: December 2022

A region of 160 kb at Xp21.2 has been defined as dosage-sensitive sex reversal (DSS) and includes the NR0B1 gene, considered to be the candidate gene involved in XY gonadal dysgenesis if overexpressed. We describe a girl with 46,XY partial gonadal dysgenesis carrying a 297 kb duplication at Xp21.2 upstream of NR0B1 initially detected by chromosomal microarray analysis. Fine mapping of the breakpoints by whole-genome sequencing showed a tandem duplication of TASL (CXorf21), GK and partially TAB3, upstream of NR0B1. This is the first description of an Xp21.2 duplication upstream of NR0B1 associated with 46,XY partial gonadal dysgenesis.
Metformin Attenuates Slow-to-Fast Fiber Shift and Proteolysis Markers Increase in Rat Soleus after 7 Days of Rat Hindlimb Unloading
Authors: Sharlo Kristina A. , Lvova Irina D. , Belova Svetlana P. , Zaripova Ksenia A. , Shenkman Boris S. , Nemirovskaya Tatiana L.
Published: December 2022

Muscle unloading leads to signaling alterations that cause muscle atrophy and weakness. The cellular energy sensor AMPK can regulate myofiber-type shift, calcium-dependent signaling and ubiquitin-proteasome system markers. We hypothesized that the prevention of p-AMPK downregulation during the first week of muscle unloading would impede atrophy development and the slow-to-fast shift of soleus muscle fibers, and the aim of the study was to test this hypothesis. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups: placebo control (C), control rats treated with metformin (C + M), 7 days of hindlimb suspension (HS) + placebo (7HS), and 7 days of HS + metformin administration (7HS + M). In the soleus of the 7HS rats, we detected a slow-to-fast fiber-type shift as well as a significant downregulation of MEF-2D and p300 in the nuclei. In the 7HS group, we also found decreases in p-ACC (AMPK target) protein level and in the expression of E3 ubiquitin ligases and p-CaMK II protein level vs. the C group. The 7-day metformin treatment for soleus muscle unloading (1) prevented slow-to-fast fiber-type shift; (2) counteracted changes in the p-ACC protein level; (3) hindered changes in the nuclear protein level of the slow myosin expression activators MEF-2D and p300, but did not affect NFATc1 signaling; and (4) attenuated the unloading-induced upregulation of MuRF-1, atrogin-1, ubiquitin and myostatin mRNA expression, but did not prevent soleus muscle atrophy. Thus, metformin treatment during muscle disuse could be useful to prevent the decrease in the percentage of slow-type fatigue-resistant muscle fibers.
Modulation of Muscarinic Signalling in the Central Nervous System by Steroid Hormones and Neurosteroids
Authors: Szczurowska Ewa , Szánti-Pintér Eszter , Chetverikov Nikolai , Randáková Alena , Kudová Eva , Jakubík Jan
Published: December 2022

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors expressed in the central nervous system mediate various functions, including cognition, memory, or reward. Therefore, muscarinic receptors represent potential pharmacological targets for various diseases and conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, addiction, epilepsy, or depression. Muscarinic receptors are allosterically modulated by neurosteroids and steroid hormones at physiologically relevant concentrations. In this review, we focus on the modulation of muscarinic receptors by neurosteroids and steroid hormones in the context of diseases and disorders of the central nervous system. Further, we propose the potential use of neuroactive steroids in the development of pharmacotherapeutics for these diseases and conditions.
Photophysical Properties of Eu3+ β-Diketonates with Extended π-Conjugation in the Aromatic Moiety
Authors: Korshunov Vladislav M. , Tsorieva Alisia V. , Gontcharenko Victoria E. , Zanizdra Sergey R. , Metlin Mikhail T. , Polikovskiy Trofim A. , Taydakov Ilya V.
Published: December 2022

The influence of the degree of π-conjugation in biaroylmethane ligands upon Eu3+ luminescence efficiency in corresponding neutral tris-complexes was investigated in depth. The data obtained by both steady-state and time-resolved luminescence measurements gave an inside into electronic energy transfer mechanisms in the abovementioned complexes. It was shown that extension of the π-system in the naphthalene moiety in comparison to the phenyl one lead to a substantial decrease of both the S1 and T1 energy of the corresponding symmetrical β-diketones, which, in turn, led to a decrease of the total quantum yield of respective Eu3+ complexes. The obtained results are of interest for the rational design of highly luminescent complexes with NIR-emitting lanthanides, as the resonant levels energies are low and can hardly be sensitized by common ligands.
Comparative Effectiveness of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban Lead-in Dosing in VTE Treatment: Observational Multicenter Real-World Study
Authors: Alshaya Omar A. , Korayem Ghazwa B. , Al Yami Majed S. , Qudayr Asma H. , Althewaibi Sara , Fetyani Lolwa , Alshehri Shaden , Alnashmi Fai , Albasseet Maram , Alshehri Lina , Alhushan Lina M. , Almohammed Omar A.
Published: December 2022

Apixaban and rivaroxaban require lead-in dosing for 7 and 21 days, respectively, when treating venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, no evidence exists to support subtracting parenteral anticoagulation days from total lead-in dosing. A multicenter study was conducted, including adult patients with acute VTE who received apixaban or rivaroxaban. The patients were grouped as follows. The recommended group received oral lead-in anticoagulant for the full recommended duration. The mixed group received lead-in therapy as parenteral with oral anticoagulant. The incidence of recurrent VTE (rVTE) and major bleeding (MB) within 90 days were the main outcomes. Of the 368 included patients, 47.8% received apixaban, and 52.2% received rivaroxaban. The recommended lead-in was used in 296 patients (80.4%), whereas 72 (19.6%) received the mixed-lead-in regimen. Five patients had rVTE events within 90 days; two occurred during hospitalization in the recommended group versus none in the mixed group (0.7% vs. 0.0%; p = 1.000). After discharge, two events occurred in the recommended group and one in the mixed group (0.7% vs. 1.4%; p = 0.481). In terms of MB, 24 events occurred in 21 patients within 90 days. During hospitalization, 11 events occurred in the recommended group and seven in the mixed group (3.7% vs. 9.7%; p = 0.060). After discharge, five more events occurred in the recommended group and one in the mixed group (1.4% vs. 1.7%; p = 1.000). The mixed-lead-in regimen is safe and effective in comparison with the recommended-lead-in regimen.
Reliability of Endolymphatic Hydrops Qualitative Assessment in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wnuk Emilia , Lachowska Magdalena , Jasińska-Nowacka Agnieszka , Maj Edyta , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: December 2022

The study aimed to compare the consistency of MRI interpretation of endolymphatic hydrops qualitative assessment of inner ear structures performed by independent observers. MRI with a delayed post-contrast 3D-FLAIR sequence was performed to visualize EH in patients suspected of having or diagnosed with MD. The scans were analyzed independently by three observers. In total, 220 ears were evaluated and, of these, 75 had definite MD, five probable MD, 67 with other Menieriform symptoms, and 73 were asymptomatic. Significant differences in cochlear endolymphatic hydrops (CoEH) grading between all observers were observed. On the Barath scale of vestibular endolymphatic hydrops (VEH), differences were found between the radiologists and otorhinolaryngologist in grading. No differences were noted in VEH on the Bernaerts scale and increased perilymphatic enhancement. Our study showed that evaluation of vestibular endolymphatic hydrops is repeatable between observers and easy to learn. It proved that Bernaerts’ modification increased the sensitivity of EH diagnosis. Both parameters, CoEH and VEH, may serve as a differentiation method of EH from normal ears. The distinction between normal and hydropic ears is much easier to perform than EH grading. Therefore, it may be used to diagnose MD rather than EH staging.
The Comprehensive Analysis of Motor and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Patients with Huntington’s Disease from China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cheng Yangfan , Gu Xiaojing , Liu Kuncheng , Yang Tianmi , Xiao Yi , Jiang Qirui , Huang Jingxuan , Lin Junyu , Wei Qianqian , Ou Ruwei , Hou Yanbing , Zhang Lingyu , Li Chunyu , Burgunder Jean-Marc , Shang Huifang
Published: December 2022

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by CAG repeats expansion. There is a paucity of comprehensive clinical analysis in Chinese HD patients due to the low prevalence of HD in Asia. We aimed to comprehensively describe the motor, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and functional assessment in patients with HD from China. A total of 205 HD patients were assessed by the Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS), the short version of Problem-Behavior Assessment (PBA-s), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the independent variables correlated with neuropsychiatric subscales. The mean age of motor symptom onset was 41.8 ± 10.0 years old with a diagnostic delay of 4.3 ± 3.8 years and a median CAG repeats of 44. The patients with a positive family history had a younger onset and larger CAG expansion than the patients without a family history (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in total motor score across disease stages (p < 0.0001). Depression (51%) was the most common neuropsychiatric symptom at all stages, whereas moderate to severe apathy commonly occurred in advanced HD stages. We found lower functional capacity and higher HAMD were independently correlated with irritability; higher HAMD and higher BDI were independently correlated with affect; male sex and higher HAMD were independently correlated with apathy. In summary, comprehensive clinical profile analysis of Chinese HD patients showed not only chorea-like movement, but psychiatric symptoms were outstanding problems and need to be detected early. Our study provides the basis to guide clinical practice, especially in practical diagnostic and management processes.
Characteristics of Patients Treated with JAK Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis before versus after VTE Risk Warnings
Authors: Philippoteaux Cécile , Deprez Valentine , Nottez Aurore , Cailliau Emeline , Houvenagel Eric , Deprez Xavier , Philippe Peggy , Pascart Tristan , Flipo René-Marc , Goëb Vincent , Letarouilly Jean-Guillaume
Published: December 2022

Background: Baricitinib (BARI) or Tofacitinib (TOFA) were the first Janus Kinase Inhibitors (JAKi) to be marketed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Concerns regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk have emerged during the past years. The aim of the study was to compare the baseline characteristics of patients initiating BARI or TOFA in RA before versus after European Medicine Agency (EMA)’s VTE warnings and to compare real-world persistence with these two drugs. Methods: In this multicentric cohort study, RA patients initiating BARI or TOFA were included from October 2017, date of BARI marketing authorization in France, to September 2020. Baseline characteristics regarding VTE risk were compared (before vs. after May 2019) by using pre-specified statistical tests. Comparison of persistence was assessed by using propensity-score methods. Results: 232 patients were included; 155 with BARI and 77 with TOFA. Baseline characteristics of patients regarding VTE risk factors were not statistically different when Janus Kinase inhibitor (JAKi) was initiated before vs. after EMA’s warnings although a trend towards a lower proportion of VTE history was observed. Five VTE events occurred, four with BARI, one with TOFA. Cumulative persistence rate at 2 years was similar between BARI and TOFA: HR 0.96; 95% Cl: 0.52 to 1.74; p = 0.89. Conclusions: Our study did not show a significant change in patients characteristics starting a JAKi after the EMA’s warnings, probably due to a lack of power. Though, the lower proportion of VTE history in patients after May 2019 suggests that rheumatologists have taken into account the potential VTE risk. These results need to be confirmed by further evidence.
Clinical Outcome of Resected Non-Ampullary Duodenal Adenocarcinoma: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Lim Soo Yeun , Chung Dong Il , Jeong Hye Jeong , Jeon Hyun Jeong , Yoon So Jeong , Kim Hongbeom , Han In Woong , Heo Jin Seok , Shin Sang Hyun
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: This study identified the clinical outcome and prognostic factors of resected non-ampullary duodenal adenocarcinoma (NADA) in a single tertiary cancer center. (2) Methods: The medical records of 109 patients with NADA who underwent curative surgery between 2000 and 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. (3) Results: The mean age was 62.4 years with a male predominance (70.6%). The majority of tumors were located at the 2nd portion (58.7%). Fifty-seven patients (52.3%) had symptoms at diagnosis. CA19-9 was elevated in 32 patients (29.4%). Of this cohort, most patients were diagnosed as stage III (64.2%). The median overall survival was 92.9 months, and the 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 84.4%, 71.6%, and 53.7%, respectively. In univariate and multivariate analysis, age, symptoms, CA19-9, and margin status were associated with overall survival and symptoms, CA19-9 and margin status were also associated with recurrence. When correlating symptoms with stages, patients with symptoms at diagnosis had more advanced stages (all p < 0.001). (4) Conclusion: Old age, elevated CA19-9, symptoms, and margin status were independent prognostic factors of NADA, and the patients with symptoms at diagnosis tend to have more advanced stages and a poor prognosis.
Robotized Cochlear Implantation under Fluoroscopy: A Preliminary Series
Authors: Mom Thierry , Puechmaille Mathilde , El Yagoubi Mohamed , Lère Alexane , Petersen Jens-Erik , Bécaud Justine , Saroul Nicolas , Gilain Laurent , Mirafzal Sonia , Chabrot Pascal
Published: December 2022

It is known that visual feedback by fluoroscopy can detect electrode array (EA) misrouting within the cochlea while robotized EA-insertion (rob-EAI) permits atraumatic cochlear implantation. We report here our unique experience of both fluoroscopy feedback and rob-EAI in cochlear implant surgery. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of consecutive patients implanted from November 2021–October 2022 using rob-EAI, with the RobOtol®, to determine the quality of EA-insertion and the additional time required. Twenty-three patients (10 females, 61+/−19 yo) were tentatively implanted using robot assistance, with a rob-EAI speed < 1 mm/s. Only three cases required a successful revised insertion by hand. Under fluoroscopy (n = 11), it was possible to achieve a remote rob-EAI (n = 8), as the surgeon was outside the operative room, behind an anti-radiation screen. No scala translocation occurred. The additional operative time due to robot use was 18+/−7 min with about 4 min more for remote rob-EAI. Basal cochlear turn fibrosis precluded rob-EAI. In conclusion, Rob-EAI can be performed in almost all cases with a low risk of scala translocation, except in the case of partial cochlear obstruction such as fibrosis. Fluoroscopy also permits remote rob-EAI.
Test–Retest Reliability and Concurrent Validity of the 3 m Backward Walk Test under Single and Dual-Task Conditions in Women with Fibromyalgia
Authors: Leon-Llamas Juan Luis , Villafaina Santos , Murillo-Garcia Alvaro , Domínguez-Muñoz Francisco Javier , Gusi Narcis
Published: December 2022

Background: Previous studies have reported good test–retest reliability for the 3 m backward test (3MBWT) in different populations. However, reliability of the 3MBWT has not been studied in fibromyalgia (FM) under single and dual-task conditions; Methods: A total of 21 women with FM participated in this study. Participants completed the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and two physical fitness tests: the 3MBWT and the Timed Up and Go (TUG). The dual-task condition consisted of subtracting two by two while performing the test, starting from a random number less than 100; Results: Values showed that the 3MBWT can be considered reliable under single and dual-task conditions when measured with both a manual stopwatch and a Chronopic automatic stopwatch. A strong concurrent validity was shown of 3MBWT and TUG results in the test and retest and the different devices. The relationship between the performance of the 3MBWT in test and retest conditions under single and dual-task conditions measured with different devices and the impact of the disease were high; Conclusions: The 3MBWT is a reliable tool under the single and dual-task conditions in women with FM. It shows higher reliability values when time is taken using a Chronopic. This test also shows high concurrent validity with the TUG test. Its performance is related to the impact of the disease.
Can the Norton Scale Score Be Used as an Adjunct Tool for Implantable Defibrillator Patient Selection? A Retrospective Single-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Ben Asher Kestin Shir , Israel Ariel , Leshem Eran , Milman Anat , Sabbag Avi , Goldengerg Ilan , Nof Eyal , Beinart Roy
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have become the standard of care in the prevention of sudden cardiac death, yet studies have shown that competing causes of death may limit ICD benefits. The Norton scale is a pressure ulcer risk score shown to have prognostic value in other fields. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of the Norton scale as an aid for ICD patient selection; (2) Methods: The study was comprised of consecutive patients who underwent defibrillator implantation at Sheba Medical Center between 2008 and 2016. A competing risk analysis was performed to assess the likelihood of death prior to device therapy; (3) Results: 695 patients were included. A total of 59 (8.5%) patients had low admission Norton scale score (ANSS) (≤14), 81 (11.7%) had intermediate ANSS (15–17), and the remainder (79.8%) had high (18–20) ANSS. The cumulative probability of all-cause mortality within one year of ICD implantation in patients with low ANSS was 30%, compared with 20% and 7% among the intermediate- and high-ANSS groups, respectively. Moreover, the one-year mortality rate without ICD therapy in low-ANSS patients was over four-fold compared with that of high-ANSS patients (33% versus 7%, p < 0.0001); (4) Conclusions: The Norton scale could be a useful additional tool in predicting the life expectancy of ICD candidates, thereby improving patient selection.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Adds Valuable Information Regarding the Presence of DKA in Children with New-Onset T1DM
Authors: Scutca Alexandra-Cristina , Nicoară Delia-Maria , Mărăzan Monica , Brad Giorgiana-Flavia , Mărginean Otilia
Published: December 2022

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute life-threatening complication occurring mainly at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a marker for systemic inflammation, has recently generated increasing interest in many chronic diseases. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in association with DKA severity across these cases. A total of 155 children with new-onset type 1 DM from one large center were included in the study. Total and differential leukocyte counts were measured upon admission and calculation of the NLR was performed. Patients were classified into four groups: without DKA, mild, moderate, and severe DKA at disease onset. Total WBCs, neutrophils, and monocytes increased with DKA severity (p-value < 0.005), while eosinophiles displayed an inverse relationship (p-value < 0.001). Median NLR scores increased from those without ketoacidosis (1.11) to mild (1.58), moderate (3.71), and severe (5.77) ketoacidosis groups. The statistical threshold value of the NLR in predicting DKA was 1.84, with a sensitivity of 80.2% and a specificity of 80%. Study findings indicate that a higher NLR score adds valuable information regarding the presence of DKA in children with new-onset T1DM.
Correction: Nikoloudaki et al. Persistence of Depression and Anxiety despite Short-Term Disease Activity Improvement in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Single-Centre, Prospective Study. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 4316
Authors: Nikoloudaki Myrto , Repa Argyro , Pitsigavdaki Sofia , Sali Ainour Molla Ismail , Sidiropoulos Prodromos , Lionis Christos , Bertsias George
Published: December 2022

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