bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relation between Intergroup Contact and Subjective Well-Being among College Students at Minzu Universities: The Moderating Role of Social Support
Authors: Ye Jian-Hong , Zhang Mengmeng , Yang Xiantong , Wang Mengqin
Published: February 2023

Although Minzu universities provide a platform for communication for college students from all ethnic groups, the multi-ethnic communication pattern could influence students’ well-being. To improve the well-being of these minority college students, this study analyzed the impact of intergroup contact on subjective well-being, as well as the moderating role of social support. Through a cross-sectional investigation, 860 valid data were collected from the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The results found that the quantity of intergroup contact, the quality of intergroup contact, and the global intergroup contact could positively predict the subjective well-being of students at Minzu universities. Social support had a positive moderating effect. That is, the stronger the social support, the stronger prediction it had on subjective well-being from the quantity of intergroup contact, the quality of intergroup contact, and the global intergroup contact among college students at Minzu universities. Therefore, based on the methods of increasing contact opportunities, improving contact quality, and enhancing social support, Minzu universities can increase the interaction among students from all ethnic groups and so, further improve the subjective well-being of college students.
Oxidative Stress as a Potential Underlying Cause of Minimal and Mild Endometriosis-Related Infertility
Authors: Didziokaite Gabija , Biliute Gabija , Gudaite Jogaile , Kvedariene Violeta
Published: February 2023

Oxidative stress (OS) plays an important role in a variety of physiological and pathological processes of the female reproductive system. In recent years the relationship between OS and endometriosis has been of particular interest, and a theory has been suggested that OS may be a cause of endometriosis development. While the link between endometriosis and infertility is well established, minimal or mild stages of endometriosis are not considered to cause infertility. Increasing evidence of OS as a leading agent in the development of endometriosis has brought up a theory of minimal/mild endometriosis itself being one of the manifestations of high OS rather than a separate disease which directly causes infertility. Moreover, further development of the disease is thought to contribute to an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) thus leading to the progression of endometriosis itself as well as to other pathological processes in the female reproductive system. Therefore, in case of minimal or mild endometriosis, the less invasive treatment could be offered in order to stop the ongoing cycle of endometriosis-reinforced excess ROS production and to reduce their harmful effects. In this article the existing connection between OS, endometriosis, and infertility is explored.
Role of Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPS) in the Postoperative Period after Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Caballero-Herrero María José , Jumilla Esther , Buitrago-Ruiz Manuel , Valero-Navarro Graciela , Cuevas Santiago
Published: February 2023

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a defect of the intestinal wall at the anastomotic site and is one of the most severe complications in colorectal surgery. Previous studies have shown that the immune system response plays a significant role in the development of AL. In recent years, DAMPs (damage-associated molecular patterns) have been identified as cellular compounds with the ability to activate the immune system. The NLRP3 inflammasome plays an important role in the inflammatory responses which are mediated by DAMPs such as ATP, HSP proteins or uric acid crystals, when found in extracellular environments. Recent publications suggest that systemic concentration of DAMPs in patients with colorectal surgery may determine the inflammatory process and have a role in the occurrence of AL and other post-surgery complications. This review provides valuable knowledge about the current evidence supporting this hypothesis and highlights the possible role of these compounds in postoperative processes, which could open a new path to explore new strategies to prevent possible post-surgical complications.
Pre-Diabetes-Linked miRNA miR-193b-3p Targets PPARGC1A, Disrupts Metabolic Gene Expression Profile and Increases Lipid Accumulation in Hepatocytes: Relevance for MAFLD
Authors: Mollet Inês Guerra , Macedo Maria Paula
Published: February 2023

Distinct plasma microRNA profiles associate with different disease features and could be used to personalize diagnostics. Elevated plasma microRNA hsa-miR-193b-3p has been reported in patients with pre-diabetes where early asymptomatic liver dysmetabolism plays a crucial role. In this study, we propose the hypothesis that elevated plasma hsa-miR-193b-3p conditions hepatocyte metabolic functions contributing to fatty liver disease. We show that hsa-miR-193b-3p specifically targets the mRNA of its predicted target PPARGC1A/PGC1α and consistently reduces its expression in both normal and hyperglycemic conditions. PPARGC1A/PGC1α is a central co-activator of transcriptional cascades that regulate several interconnected pathways, including mitochondrial function together with glucose and lipid metabolism. Profiling gene expression of a metabolic panel in response to overexpression of microRNA hsa-miR-193b-3p revealed significant changes in the cellular metabolic gene expression profile, including lower expression of MTTP, MLXIPL/ChREBP, CD36, YWHAZ and GPT, and higher expression of LDLR, ACOX1, TRIB1 and PC. Overexpression of hsa-miR-193b-3p under hyperglycemia also resulted in excess accumulation of intracellular lipid droplets in HepG2 cells. This study supports further research into potential use of microRNA hsa-miR-193b-3p as a possible clinically relevant plasma biomarker for metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in dysglycemic context.
Alternative Splicing in the Regulatory Circuit of Plant Temperature Response
Authors: Xue Rong , Mo Ruirui , Cui Dongkai , Cheng Wencong , Wang Haoyu , Qin Jinxia , Liu Zhenshan
Published: February 2023

As sessile organisms, plants have evolved complex mechanisms to rapidly respond to ever-changing ambient temperatures. Temperature response in plants is modulated by a multilayer regulatory network, including transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations. Alternative splicing (AS) is an essential post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism. Extensive studies have confirmed its key role in plant temperature response, from adjustment to diurnal and seasonal temperature changes to response to extreme temperatures, which has been well documented by previous reviews. As a key node in the temperature response regulatory network, AS can be modulated by various upstream regulations, such as chromatin modification, transcription rate, RNA binding proteins, RNA structure and RNA modifications. Meanwhile, a number of downstream mechanisms are affected by AS, such as nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway, translation efficiency and production of different protein variants. In this review, we focus on the links between splicing regulation and other mechanisms in plant temperature response. Recent advances regarding how AS is regulated and the following consequences in gene functional modulation in plant temperature response will be discussed. Substantial evidence suggests that a multilayer regulatory network integrating AS in plant temperature response has been unveiled.
Testing of Lubricants for DIC Tests to Measure the Forming Limit Diagrams of Aluminum Thin Sheet Materials
Authors: Szalai Szabolcs , Csótár Hanna , Kurhan Dmytro , Németh Attila , Sysyn Mykola , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: February 2023

We investigated lubricants and thin teflon foils that can be applied in the formability testing of the thin aluminum sheets used in the electronics and automotive industries. For the tests, thirteen different industrial lubricants (oils and greases) (i.e., L1–L13) and two Teflon films (i.e., 0.08 and 0.22 mm thick) were applied. The authors conducted an Erichsen test, and the thickness reduction of the discs was measured first. In forming-limit curve (FLC) tests, it is crucial that the stresses are localized in the central area of the specimen during forming and that biaxial deformation is maintained throughout, if possible. We aimed to achieve and fulfill this task. To perform this measurement, the GOM ARAMIS measuring system was utilized. It is an optical measuring system based on the digital image correlation (DIC) principle, capable of measuring both stresses and displacements in real time. A specific validation method was also developed to qualify the DIC system. We concluded that there was a 5% difference in Erichsen indentation (IE) number diagrams between the best (L12) and worst (L4) cases for the lubricants and oils tested, which is a significant difference for thin plates. We found that this value could be increased and improved by using Teflon discs. Furthermore, the localization of stress maxima, i.e., the centering of cracks in the specimen, could be achieved by combining Teflon discs and L12 lubricant (with appropriate layer order), which significantly aids in the recording of standard FLC diagrams. Using foils is also advantageous because they are readily available, have no expiry date, and are of less environmental concern.
The Sweetgum Inscriber, Acanthotomicus suncei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) Reared on Artificial Diets and American Sweetgum Logs
Authors: Zhang Yan , Sun Xueting , Li You , Gao Lei
Published: February 2023

The sweetgum inscriber, Acanthotomicus suncei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), is a recently discovered pest of American sweetgum planted in China, with a potential for causing a devastating invasion into North America. Research on the beetle has been hampered by a dwindling access to breeding material. We tested the effect of four artificial diets on A. suncei’s developmental time, length and weight of adults, egg hatching rate, pupation rate, and eclosion rate. Additionally, we evaluated the same parameters on A. suncei reared on American sweetgum logs. Only one diet supported the full development of A. suncei after 30 d. Beetles reared on this diet, which was made of small quantities of agar and additives (i.e., inositol, potassium sorbate, and methylparaben), supported the shortest developmental time of 45.55 ± 1.24 d. Beetles reared on American sweetgum logs exhibited a longer developmental time of 59.52 ± 4.52 d. Beetles reared on the artificial diet were markedly bigger and heavier than those reared on American sweetgum logs (p < 0.01). The egg hatching rate (58.90% ± 6.80%) and eclosion rate (86.50% ± 4.69%) of A. suncei on the artificial diet were significantly greater than those on sweetgum logs. However, the pupation rate (38.60% ± 8.36%) was much lower on the artificial diet than on the sweetgum logs. Here, we reported the best artificial diet for A. suncei and discuss the advantages and disadvantages over rearing the beetle on American sweetgum logs.
Elongases of Long-Chain Fatty Acids ELO2 and ELO9 Are Involved in Cuticle Formation and Function in Fecundity in the Yellow Fever Mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Chen Jing , Wu Yu-Chen , Chen Jiu-Kai , Zhu Xiao-Jing , Merkler David , Liao Cheng-Hong , Han Qian
Published: February 2023

Long-chain fatty acid elongases (ELOs) play important roles in the metabolism of fatty acids in insects. In this study, the genes for two elongases from Aedes aegypti were identified, AeELO2 and AeELO9. Quantitative real time PCR showed that AeELO2 and AeELO9 are expressed at all developmental stages and some body parts, but with different expression patterns. RNAi-mediated knockdown of AeELO2 and AeELO9 was performed to investigate their roles in the development, growth, osmotic balance, and cold tolerance of Ae. aegypti. Knockdown of AeELO2 slowed larval growth and development by causing molting abnormalities. Additionally, 33% ± 3.3% of adults died during oviposition, accompanied by an abnormal extension of cuticles in AeELO2-dsRNA knockdown mosquitos. Knockdown of AeEL09 resulted in abnormal balance of cuticular osmotic pressure and a reduction in egg production. The maximal mRNAs of AeELO2 and AeELO9 were detected in eggs at 72 h after oviposition. Moreover, AeELO2 knockdown reduced the egg hatching rates and AeELO9 knockdown larvae did not develop well. In summary, AeELO2 is involved in larval molting and growth, and its knockdown affects the flexibility and elasticity of adult mosquito cuticles. AeELO9 regulates cold tolerance, osmotic balance, and egg development in Ae. aegypti.
Molecular-Based Taxonomic Inferences of Some Spider Mite Species of the Genus Oligonychus Berlese (Acari, Prostigmata, Tetranychidae)
Authors: Mushtaq Hafiz Muhammad Saqib , Saleh Amgad A. , Kamran Muhammad , Alatawi Fahad Jaber
Published: February 2023

DNA barcoding technology using short DNA sequences has emerged as an efficient and reliable tool for identifying, confirming, and resolving closely related taxa. This study used ITS2-rDNA and mtCOI DNA sequences to confirm the identity of eight Oligonychus species, representing 68 spider mite samples, collected mainly from Saudi Arabia (SA) and some from Mexico, Pakistan, USA, and Yemen. The intraspecific nucleotide divergences of the studied Oligonychus species ranged from 0% to 1.2% for ITS2 and 0% to 2.9% for COI. However, the interspecific nucleotide divergences were distinctly higher than the intraspecific ones and ranged from 3.7% to 51.1% for ITS2 and 3.2% to 18.1% for COI. Furthermore, molecular data correctly confirmed the species identity of 42 Oligonychus samples lacking males, including a previously claimed sample of O. pratensis from SA. High genetic variations were detected in two Oligonychus species: O. afrasiaticus (McGregor) (nine ITS2 and three COI haplotypes) and O. tylus Baker and Pritchard (four ITS2 and two COI haplotypes). In addition, ITS2- and COI-based phylogenetic trees confirmed the subdivision of the genus Oligonychus. In conclusion, integrative taxonomic approaches are vital to resolve the closely related Oligonychus species, identify the samples lacking male specimens, and assess phylogenetic relationships within and among species.
Exerting Qualitative Analytics and Blockchain Requirement-Engineering in Designing and Implementing a Luxury Products Authentication System
Authors: Udokwu Chibuzor , Zimmermann Robert , Norta Alexander , Brandtner Patrick , Kormiltsyn Alexandr , Aroh Sunday Melitus
Published: February 2023

High-quality luxury products cater to a specific group of consumers due to their durability and the value attached to them. Counterfeiting luxury products has resulted in economic losses for both the producers and consumers. The market for counterfeit luxury products has continued to grow due to the difficulty in authenticating genuine luxury products. The traditional system of verification largely depends on the expert use of specialized equipment for visually inspecting physical luxury products and their associated certificates. This conventional process of authenticating luxury products is expensive, slow, and not easily accessible to consumers. Hence, there is a need for a digital verification approach for luxury products. Blockchain provides the potential for providing traceable and immutable information about a given luxury product. The focus of this paper is to develop a blockchain decentralized application (DApp) for authenticating luxury products in the class of luxury accessories such as jewelry across their respective lifecycles. To achieve this, qualitative analytics is applied to identify useful features for the digital authentication of luxury products. Blockchain requirement engineering modelling is then applied to explore the use of blockchain technologies to realize the features that guarantee transparency in the ownership and use of luxury products. Furthermore, this paper explores the existing blockchain technologies for realizing and implementing the developed requirements of the authentication DApp for luxury products. The selected blockchain technology stack is applied in prototyping authentication systems for luxury products. The implemented platform is simulated to demonstrate the operations carried out in authenticating luxury products.
Elevated Levels of Neutrophil-to Monocyte Ratio Are Associated with the Initiation of Paroxysmal Documented Atrial Fibrillation in the First Two Months after Heart Transplantation: A Uni-Institutional Retrospective Study
Authors: Baba Dragos-Florin , Suciu Horatiu , Avram Calin , Gyorgy Manuela , Danilesco Alina , Huma Laurentiu , Sin Ileana Anca
Published: February 2023

Background: Heart transplantation represents the treatment for patients with end-stage heart failure (HF) being symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy. We investigated the role of NMR (neutrophil-to-monocyte ratio), NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), NPR (neutrophil-to-platelet ratio), NWR (neutrophil-to-white cells ratio), MLR (monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio), PLR (platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio), MWR (neutrophil-to-white cells ratio), and LWR (lymphocyte-to-white cells ratio) at the same cut-off values previously studied, to predict complications after heart transplant within 2 months after surgery. Methods: From May 2014 to January 2021, was included 38 patients in our study from the Cardiovascular and Transplant Emergency Institute of Târgu Mureș. Results: Preoperative NMR > 8.9 (OR: 70.71, 95% CI: 3.39–1473.64; p = 0.006) was a risk factor for the apparition of post-operative paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (Afib). In contrast, preoperative MWR > 0.09 (OR: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.003–0.58; p = 0.0182) represented a protective factor against AFib, but being the risk of complications of any cause (OR: 14.74, 95% CI: 1.05–206.59, p = 0.0458). Conclusion: Preoperative elevated levels of NMR were associated with the apparition of documented AFib, with high levels of MWR as a protective factor. High MWR was a risk factor in developing complications of any cause in the first 2 months after heart transplantation.
Fetal Lung Volume Appears to Predict Respiratory Morbidity in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Cerbelle Valentine , Le Duc Kévin , Lejeune Stephanie , Mur Sébastien , Lerisson Héloise , Drumez Elodie , Sfeir Rony , Bigot Julien , Verpillat Pauline , Boukhris Riadh , Vaast Pascal , Mordacq Clémence , Thumerelle Caroline , Storme Laurent , Deschildre Antoine ,   Center for Rare Disease “Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia”
Published: February 2023

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with pulmonary hypoplasia and respiratory morbidity. To assess whether respiratory morbidity during the first 2 years of life in infants with left-sided CDH is associated with fetal lung volume (FLV) evaluated by the observed-to-expected FLV ratio (o/e FLV) on antenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this retrospective study, o/e FLV measures were collected. Respiratory morbidity in the first 2 years of life was studied according to two endpoints: treatment with inhaled corticosteroids for >3 consecutive months and hospitalization for any acute respiratory disease. The primary outcome was a favorable progression defined by the absence of either endpoint. Forty-seven patients were included. The median o/e FLV was 39% (interquartile range, 33–49). Sixteen (34%) infants were treated with inhaled corticosteroids and 13 (28%) were hospitalized. The most efficient threshold for a favorable outcome was an o/e FLV ≥ 44% with a sensitivity of 57%, specificity of 79%, negative predictive value of 56%, and positive predictive value of 80%. An o/e FLV ≥ 44% was associated with a favorable outcome in 80% of cases. These data suggest that lung volume measurement on fetal MRI may help to identify children at lower respiratory risk and improve information during pregnancy, patient characterization, decisions about treatment strategy and research, and personalized follow-up.
A Clinicopathological Review of 203 Cases of Atypical Polypoid Adenomyoma of the Uterus
Authors: Sun Yue , Tian Lina , Liu Guoyan
Published: February 2023

Objective: To provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of atypical polypoid adenomyoma (APA). Methods: This was a retrospective study of 203 APA patients from 2011 to 2021. The clinicopathological characteristics, treatments, and prognosis were analyzed. Results: The average age at diagnosis of APA patients was 39.30 ± 11.01 years, and premenopausal women accounted for 81.3%. Abnormal uterine bleeding or menorrhagia were the most common clinical manifestations of APA. The uterine fundus (78.3%), followed by the lower segment of the uterus (11.8%), was the most common location of the APA lesions. Abnormal blood vessels were seen on the surface of 28 APA tumors. APA can coexist with atypical endometrial hyperplasia (18.2%) and endometrial cancer (10.8%). Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on 99 samples. In the glandular component, ER (94.8%), PR (94.8%), Ki-67 (51.5%), p53 (45.6%), PTEN (18.8%), and mismatch repair proteins (96.4%) were positively expressed. Stromal immunophenotype expression was exhibited as follows: CD10-(89.5%), p16+(86.9%), h-caldesmon-(66.7%), Desmin+(75%), and Vimentin+(88.9%). Fifty-five APA patients received TCR, and 33 of them received adjuvant therapy after the operation. The postoperative recurrence rate (9.1% vs. 36.4%, p < 0.05) and malignant transformation rate (3.0% vs. 18.2%, p < 0.05) of the treated group were significantly lower than the untreated group. Conclusions: APA usually occurs in women of childbearing age, and the diagnosis is based on pathological morphology. APA has a low malignant potential, and those who have fertility requirements can undergo conservative TCR treatment, supplemented by progesterone treatment after surgery and close follow-up. Total hysterectomy is the treatment of choice for APA patients with atypical endometrial hyperplasia around the lesion.
Development of a Reinforcement Learning Algorithm to Optimize Corticosteroid Therapy in Critically Ill Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Bologheanu Razvan , Kapral Lorenz , Laxar Daniel , Maleczek Mathias , Dibiasi Christoph , Zeiner Sebastian , Agibetov Asan , Ercole Ari , Thoral Patrick , Elbers Paul , Heitzinger Clemens , Kimberger Oliver
Published: February 2023

Background: The optimal indication, dose, and timing of corticosteroids in sepsis is controversial. Here, we used reinforcement learning to derive the optimal steroid policy in septic patients based on data on 3051 ICU admissions from the AmsterdamUMCdb intensive care database. Methods: We identified septic patients according to the 2016 consensus definition. An actor-critic RL algorithm using ICU mortality as a reward signal was developed to determine the optimal treatment policy from time-series data on 277 clinical parameters. We performed off-policy evaluation and testing in independent subsets to assess the algorithm’s performance. Results: Agreement between the RL agent’s policy and the actual documented treatment reached 59%. Our RL agent’s treatment policy was more restrictive compared to the actual clinician behavior: our algorithm suggested withholding corticosteroids in 62% of the patient states, versus 52% according to the physicians’ policy. The 95% lower bound of the expected reward was higher for the RL agent than clinicians’ historical decisions. ICU mortality after concordant action in the testing dataset was lower both when corticosteroids had been withheld and when corticosteroids had been prescribed by the virtual agent. The most relevant variables were vital parameters and laboratory values, such as blood pressure, heart rate, leucocyte count, and glycemia. Conclusions: Individualized use of corticosteroids in sepsis may result in a mortality benefit, but optimal treatment policy may be more restrictive than the routine clinical practice. Whilst external validation is needed, our study motivates a ‘precision-medicine’ approach to future prospective controlled trials and practice.
Transurethral Incision of the Bladder Neck with or without Additional Procedure Resumes Spontaneous Voiding in Female Voiding Dysfunction—A Long-Term Retrospective Follow-Up
Authors: Ong Hueih-Ling , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: February 2023

Aim: This study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of transurethral incision of the bladder neck (TUI-BN) with or without an additional procedure for female voiding dysfunction. Methods: Women with voiding difficulty who underwent TUI-BN in the last 12 years were included. All patients underwent a videourodynamics study (VUDS) at baseline and after TUI-BN. A successful outcome was defined as having a voiding efficiency (VE) increase by ≥50% after treatment. Patients with insufficient improvement were chosen for repeated TUI-BN, urethral onabotulinumtoxinA injection, or transurethral external sphincter incision (TUI-ES). The current voiding status, surgical complications, and additional surgeries were evaluated. Results: A total of 102 women with VUDS evidence of a narrow bladder neck during voiding were enrolled. The long-term success rate of the first TUI-BN was 29.4% (30/102) and increased to 66.7% (34/51) after combining TUI-BN and an additional procedure. The overall long-term success rates were 74.6% in women with detrusor underactivity (DU), 52.0% in detrusor overactivity and low contractility, 50.0% in bladder neck obstruction, 20.0% in hypersensitive bladder, and 75% in stable bladder (p = 0.022). Patients with a lower maximum flow rate (Qmax), (p = 0.002), lower voided volume (p < 0.001), lower corrected Qmax (p < 0.001), lower ladder contractility index (p = 0.003), lower voiding efficiency (p < 0.001), but larger post-void residual volume (p < 0.001) had a satisfactory surgical outcome. Spontaneous voiding was achieved in 66 (64.7%) patients, de novo urinary incontinence in 21 (20.6%), and vesicovaginal fistula in 4 (3.9%), all were repaired. Conclusions: TUI-BN alone or in combination with an additional procedure was safe, effective, and durable in patients with DU to resume spontaneous voiding.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Psillas George
Published: February 2023

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a frustrating and frightening experience for a patient [...]
Sleep and Circadian Rhythm in Relation to COVID-19 and COVID-19 Vaccination—National Sleep Survey of South Korea 2022
Authors: Han Su-Hyun , Lee Seo-Young , Cho Jae Wook , Kim Jee Hyun , Moon Hye-jin , Park Hea Ree , Cho Yong Won
Published: February 2023

Background: Currently, information on sleep and circadian patterns in relation to COVID-19 or vaccination remains limited. We aimed to investigate sleep and circadian patterns according to history of COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination side effects. Methods: We used data from the National Sleep Survey of South Korea 2022, a nationwide cross-sectional population-based survey regarding sleep–wake behaviors and sleep problems among Korean adults. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the different sleep and circadian patterns according to the history of COVID-19 or self-reported side effects of the COVID-19 vaccination. Results: The ANCOVA showed that individuals with a history of COVID-19 presented a later chronotype than individuals without a history of COVID-19. Individuals who had experienced vaccine-related side effects had a shorter sleep duration, poorer sleep efficiency, and worse insomnia severity. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed a later chronotype related to COVID-19. A short sleep duration, poorer sleep efficiency, and worse insomnia severity were associated with self-reported side effects of the COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusions: Individuals who recovered from COVID-19 had a later chronotype than those without a history of COVID-19. Individuals who had experienced vaccine-related side effects presented with poorer sleep than those without side effects.
Incidence of Invasive Fungal Infections in Liver Transplant Recipients under Targeted Echinocandin Prophylaxis
Authors: Breitkopf Robert , Treml Benedikt , Simmet Katharina , Bukumirić Zoran , Fodor Margot , Senoner Thomas , Rajsic Sasa
Published: February 2023

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are one of the most important infectious complications after liver transplantation, determining morbidity and mortality. Antimycotic prophylaxis may impede IFI, but a consensus on indication, agent, or duration is still missing. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the incidence of IFIs under targeted echinocandin antimycotic prophylaxis in adult high-risk liver transplant recipients. We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing a deceased donor liver transplantation at the Medical University of Innsbruck in the period from 2017 to 2020. Of 299 patients, 224 met the inclusion criteria. We defined patients as being at high risk for IFI if they had two or more prespecified risk factors and these patients received prophylaxis. In total, 85% (190/224) of the patients were correctly classified according to the developed algorithm, being able to predict an IFI with a sensitivity of 89%. Although 83% (90/109) so defined high-risk recipients received echinocandin prophylaxis, 21% (23/109) still developed an IFI. The multivariate analysis identified the age of the recipient (hazard ratio—HR = 0.97, p = 0.027), split liver transplantation (HR = 5.18, p = 0.014), massive intraoperative blood transfusion (HR = 24.08, p = 0.004), donor-derived infection (HR = 9.70, p < 0.001), and relaparotomy (HR = 4.62, p = 0.003) as variables with increased hazard ratios for an IFI within 90 days. The fungal colonization at baseline, high-urgency transplantation, posttransplant dialysis, bile leak, and early transplantation showed significance only in a univariate model. Notably, 57% (12/21) of the invasive Candida infections were caused by a non-albicans species, entailing a markedly reduced one-year survival. The attributable 90-day mortality rate of an IFI after a liver transplant was 53% (9/17). None of the patients with invasive aspergillosis survived. Despite targeted echinocandin prophylaxis, there is still a notable risk for IFI. Consequently, the prophylactic use of echinocandins must be critically questioned regarding the high rate of breakthrough infections, the increased occurrence of fluconazole-resistant pathogens, and the higher mortality rate in non-albicans Candida species. Adherence to the internal prophylaxis algorithms is of immense importance, bearing in mind the high IFI rates in case algorithms are not followed.
Effectiveness of a 3-Week Rehabilitation Program Combining Muscle Strengthening and Endurance Exercises Prior to Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hashizaki Takamasa , Nishimura Yukihide , Ogawa Takahiro , Ohno Chigusa , Kouda Ken , Umemoto Yasunori , Taniguchi Takaya , Yamada Hiroshi , Tajima Fumihiro
Published: February 2023

We evaluated the effectiveness of a high-intensity preoperative resistance and endurance training program in improving physical function among patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty. This non-randomized controlled trial included 33 knee osteoarthritis patients scheduled to undergo total knee arthroplasty at a tertiary public medical university hospital. Fourteen and nineteen patients were non-randomly assigned to intervention and control groups, respectively. All patients underwent total knee arthroplasty and a postoperative rehabilitation program. The intervention group participated in a preoperative rehabilitation program comprising high-intensity resistance and endurance training exercises to increase lower limb muscle strength and endurance capacity. The control group received only exercise instruction. The primary outcome was the 6-min walking distance, which was significantly higher in the intervention group (399 ± 59.8 m) than in the control group (348 ± 75.1 m) 3 months post-surgery. There were no significant differences between the groups 3 months post-surgery in muscle strength, visual analog scale, WOMAC-Pain, range of motion of knee flexion, and extension. A 3-week preoperative rehabilitation program combining muscle strengthening and endurance training improved endurance 3 months after total knee arthroplasty. Thus, preoperative rehabilitation is important for improving postoperative activity.
Vision-Related Parameters Affecting Stereopsis after Retinal Detachment Surgery
Authors: Okamoto Fumiki , Murakami Tomoya , Morikawa Shohei , Sugiura Yoshimi , Hiraoka Takahiro , Oshika Tetsuro
Published: February 2023

Even after successful surgery, the stereopsis of retinal detachment (RD) patients is inferior to that of normal subjects. However, it is unclear which visual dysfunction in the affected eye is responsible for the postoperative stereopsis impairment. This study included 127 patients after successful surgery for unilateral RD. Stereopsis, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), severity of metamorphopsia, letter contrast sensitivity and amount of aniseikonia were examined at 6-month postoperatively. Stereopsis was assessed using the Titmus Stereo Test (TST) and TNO stereotest (TNO). Postoperative stereopsis (log) in patients with RD were 2.09 ± 0.46 in the TST and 2.56 ± 0.62 in the TNO. Multivariate analysis with stepwise regression revealed postoperative TST was associated with BCVA, and TNO was associated with BCVA, letter contrast sensitivity, metamorphopsia and absolute values of aniseikonia. In a subgroup analysis that selected those with more impaired stereopsis, postoperative TST was associated with BCVA (p < 0.001), and TNO was associated with letter contrast sensitivity (p < 0.005) and absolute values of aniseikonia (p < 0.05) by multivariate analysis. Deterioration of stereopsis after RD surgery was affected by a variety of visual dysfunctions. The TST was affected by visual acuity, while the TNO was affected by contrast sensitivity and aniseikonia.
EYERUBBICS: The Eye Rubbing Cycle Study
Authors: Hage Alexandre , Knoeri Juliette , Leveziel Loïc , Majoulet Alexandre , Blanc Jean-Victor , Buffault Juliette , Labbé Antoine , Baudouin Christophe
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Describe the cognitive and behavioral symptomatology of patients with chronic ocular rubbing in keratoconus (KC) and Ocular Surface Disease (OSD) using a self-questionnaire. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary ophthalmology center between May and July 2021. We consecutively included all patients presenting with one of the following conditions: KC and OSD. A questionnaire including the evaluation of Goodman and CAGE-modified criteria for eye rubbing was given to patients in consultation to evaluate their ocular symptoms and medical background. Results: We included 153 patients in the study. Of these, 125 (81.7%) patients reported eye rubbing. The average Goodman score was 5.8 ± 3.1 and was ≥ 5 in 63.2% of cases. The CAGE score was ≥ 2 in 74.4% of patients. Addiction (p = 0.045) and psychiatric family history (p = 0.03) were more frequent in patients with higher scores. Ocular symptoms and eye rubbing were significantly more frequent and intense in patients with higher scores; Conclusion: Eye rubbing presents addictive-like cognitive and behavioral characteristics in patients with KC or OSD. The eye rubbing cycle could play an essential role in the onset and progression of keratoconus and could be a factor in the maintenance of dry eye.
Functional Outcome Analysis of Stereotactic Catheter Aspiration for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Early or Late Hematoma Evacuation?
Authors: Fang Yuanjian , Wang Junjie , Chen Luxi , Yan Wei , Gao Shiqi , Liu Yibo , Wang Xiaoyu , Dong Xiao , Zhang Jianmin , Chen Sheng , Liu Fengqiang , Wang Zefeng , Zhang Yang
Published: February 2023

Background: Minimally invasive stereotactic catheter aspiration becoming a promising surgical alternative for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. Our goal is to determine the risk factors that lead to poor functional outcomes in patients undergoing this procedure. Methods: Clinical data of 101 patients with stereotactic catheter ICH aspiration were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate and multiple logistic analyses were used to identify risk factors for poor outcomes 3 months and 1 year after discharge. Univariate analysis was used to compare the functional outcome between early (<48 h after ICH onset) and late hematoma evacuation (≥48 h after ICH onset) groups, as well as for the odd ratios assessment in terms of rebleeding. Results: Independent factors for poor 3-month outcome included lobar ICH, ICH score > 2, rebleeding, and delayed hematoma evacuation. Factors for poor 1-year outcome included age > 60, GCS < 13, lobar ICH, and rebleeding. Early hematoma evacuation was linked to a lower likelihood of poor outcome both 3 months and 1 year post-discharge, but with higher risk of postoperative rebleeding. Conclusions: Lobar ICH and rebleeding independently predicted both poor short- and long-term outcomes in patients with stereotactic catheter ICH evacuation. Early hematoma evacuation with preoperative rebleeding risk evaluation may benefit patients with stereotactic catheter ICH evacuation.
3D Printing of Dental Prostheses: Current and Emerging Applications
Authors: Rezaie Fereshte , Farshbaf Masoud , Dahri Mohammad , Masjedi Moein , Maleki Reza , Amini Fatemeh , Wirth Jonathan , Moharamzadeh Keyvan , Weber Franz E. , Tayebi Lobat
Published: February 2023

Revolutionary fabrication technologies such as three-dimensional (3D) printing to develop dental structures are expected to replace traditional methods due to their ability to establish constructs with the required mechanical properties and detailed structures. Three-dimensional printing, as an additive manufacturing approach, has the potential to rapidly fabricate complex dental prostheses by employing a bottom-up strategy in a layer-by-layer fashion. This new technology allows dentists to extend their degree of freedom in selecting, creating, and performing the required treatments. Three-dimensional printing has been narrowly employed in the fabrication of various kinds of prostheses and implants. There is still an on-demand production procedure that offers a reasonable method with superior efficiency to engineer multifaceted dental constructs. This review article aims to cover the most recent applications of 3D printing techniques in the manufacturing of dental prosthetics. More specifically, after describing various 3D printing techniques and their advantages/disadvantages, the applications of 3D printing in dental prostheses are elaborated in various examples in the literature. Different 3D printing techniques have the capability to use different materials, including thermoplastic polymers, ceramics, and metals with distinctive suitability for dental applications, which are discussed in this article. The relevant limitations and challenges that currently limit the efficacy of 3D printing in this field are also reviewed. This review article has employed five major scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Scopus, with appropriate keywords to find the most relevant literature in the subject of dental prostheses 3D printing.
Analysis of Exhaust Pollutants from Four-Stroke Marine Diesel Engines Based on Bench Tests
Authors: Ma Zhongmin , Du Taili , Duan Shulin , Qu Hongfei , Wang Kai , Xing Hui , Zou Yongjiu , Sun Peiting
Published: February 2023

Implementation of new emissions regulations calls for a reassessment of the emissions levels of newly built ships sailing in Chinese regions. In this paper, marine diesel engines are subjected to emissions bench tests using high-precision testing equipment. A total of 135 marine diesel engines meeting the Limits and Measurement Methods for Exhaust Pollutants from Marine Engines (CHINA I/II) were first systematically analyzed. The emission factors of marine main engines (ME) and auxiliary engines (AE) were obtained under different displacements. The results show that the fuel-based emission factors for NOX + HC and CO meeting CHINA I/II are 25.80~44.87/16.47~46.35 and 2.47~13.22/1.64~5.62 kg/t-fuel, respectively. The energy-based emission factors for NOX + HC, CO, CO2, and PM satisfying CHINA I/II are 5.70~9.24/3.70~9.07, 0.49~2.30/0.36~0.99, 620~683/612~718, and 0.05~0.36/0.05~0.27 g/kWh, respectively. Additionally, the specific emission of NOx rises with the increase in single-cylinder displacement, so the CO emission limit of pure diesel fuel is recommended to be lower than 5 g/kWh. The results in this paper provide valuable basic data for research on and estimation of ship emissions in waterway transportation and for understanding the emission characteristics of marine diesel engines.
Machine Learning Approach for Detection of Water Overgrowth in Azov Sea with Sentinel-2 Data
Authors: Krivoguz Denis , Bondarenko Liudmila , Matveeva Evgenia , Zhilenkov Anton , Chernyi Sergei , Zinchenko Elena
Published: February 2023

The Azov Sea estuaries play an important role in the reproduction of semi-anadromous fish species. Spawning efficiency is closely connected with overgrowing of those species spawning grounds; thus, the objective of the water vegetation research has vital fisheries importance. Thus, the main goal of the research was to develop a machine learning algorithm for the detection of water overgrowth with Phragmites australis based on Sentinel-2 data. The research was conducted based on field botanical and vegetation investigations in 2020–2021 in Soleniy and Chumyanniy firths. Collected field and remote sensing data were processed with the semi-automatic classification plugin for QGIS. For the classification of Azov Sea estuaries, a random forest algorithm was used. The obtained results showed that in 2020 the areas occupied by reeds reached 0.37 km2, while in 2021, they increased to 0.51 km2. There was a high level of Phragmites australis growth in the Soleniy and Chumyanniy firths. The rapid growth of Phragmites australis in the period of 2020–2021, where the area covered by the reed doubled, is primarily attributed to eutrophication. This is due to the nutrient enrichment from agricultural lands located in the northern part of the research area near Novonekrasovskiy village. Additionally, changes in water flows and hydrological conditions can also contribute to the favorable growth of the reed. This can result in a high growth rate of Phragmites australis, which can reach up to 2 m per year and can propagate both through vegetative and sexual means, leading to the formation of large and dense clusters.
Diversity, Lifestyle, Genomics, and Their Functional Role of Cochliobolus, Bipolaris, and Curvularia Species in Environmental Remediation and Plant Growth Promotion under Biotic and Abiotic Stressors
Authors: Khan Nasir Ali , Asaf Sajjad , Ahmad Waqar , Jan Rahmatullah , Bilal Saqib , Khan Ibrahim , Khan Abdul Latif , Kim Kyung-Min , Al-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: February 2023

Cochliobolus, Bipolaris, and Curvularia genera contain various devastating plant pathogens that cause severe crop losses worldwide. The species belonging to these genera also perform a variety of diverse functions, including the remediation of environmental contaminations, beneficial phytohormone production, and maintaining their lifestyle as epiphytes, endophytes, and saprophytes. Recent research has revealed that despite their pathogenic nature, these fungi also play an intriguing role in agriculture. They act as phosphate solubilizers and produce phytohormones, such as indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GAs), to accelerate the growth of various plants. Some species have also been reported to play a significant role in plant growth promotion during abiotic stresses, such as salinity stress, drought stress, heat stress, and heavy metal stress, as well as act as a biocontrol agent and a potential mycoherbicide. Similarly, these species have been reported in numerous industrial applications to produce different types of secondary metabolites and biotechnological products and possess a variety of biological properties, such as antibacterial, antileishmanial, cytotoxic, phytotoxic, and antioxidant activities. Additionally, some of the species have been utilized in the production of numerous valuable industrial enzymes and biotransformation, which has an impact on the growth of crops all over the world. However, the current literature is dispersed, and some of the key areas, such as taxonomy, phylogeny, genome sequencing, phytohormonal analysis, and diversity, are still being neglected in terms of the elucidation of its mechanisms, plant growth promotion, stress tolerance, and bioremediation. In this review, we highlighted the potential role, function, and diversity of Cochliobolus, Curvularia, and Bipolaris for improved utilization during environmental biotechnology.
Antifungal Activity of Perillaldehyde on Fusarium solani and Its Control Effect on Postharvest Decay of Sweet Potatoes
Authors: Pan Chao , Yang Kunlong , Erhunmwunsee Famous , Wang Bo , Yang Dongjing , Lu Guoquan , Liu Man , Li Yongxin , Tian Jun
Published: February 2023

Root rot caused by Fusarium solani is one of the major postharvest diseases limiting sweet potato production. Here, antifungal activity and the action mode of perillaldehyde (PAE) against F. solani were investigated. A PAE concentration of 0.15 mL/L in air (mL/L air) markedly inhibited the mycelial growth, spore reproduction and spore viability of F. solani. A PAE vapor of 0.25 mL/L in air could control the F. solani development in sweet potatoes during storage for 9 days at 28 °C. Moreover, the results of a flow cytometer demonstrated that PAE drove an increase in cell membrane permeability, reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in F. solani spores. Subsequently, a fluorescence microscopy assay demonstrated that PAE caused serious damage to the cell nuclei in F. solani by inducing chromatin condensation. Further, the spread plate method showed that the spore survival rate was negatively correlated with the level of ROS and nuclear damage, of which the results indicated that PAE-driven ROS accumulation plays a critical role in contributing to cell death in F. solani. In all, the results revealed a specific antifungal mechanism of PAE against F. solani, and suggest that PAE could be a useful fumigant for controlling the postharvest diseases of sweet potatoes.
Entomopathogenic Fungi-Mediated Solubilization and Induction of Fe Related Genes in Melon and Cucumber Plants
Authors: García-Espinoza Fabián , Quesada-Moraga Enrique , García del Rosal María José , Yousef-Yousef Meelad
Published: February 2023

Endophytic insect pathogenic fungi have a multifunctional lifestyle; in addition to its well-known function as biocontrol agents, it may also help plants respond to other biotic and abiotic stresses, such as iron (Fe) deficiency. This study explores M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain attributes for Fe acquisition. Firstly, direct attributes include siderophore exudation (in vitro assay) and Fe content in shoots and in the substrate (in vivo assay) were evaluated for three strains of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium bruneum. The M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain showed a great ability to exudate iron siderophores (58.4% surface siderophores exudation) and provided higher Fe content in both dry matter and substrate compared to the control and was therefore selected for further research to unravel the possible induction of Fe deficiency responses, Ferric Reductase Activity (FRA), and relative expression of Fe acquisition genes by qRT-PCR in melon and cucumber plants.. In addition, root priming by M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain elicited Fe deficiency responses at transcriptional level. Our results show an early up-regulation (24, 48 or 72 h post inoculation) of the Fe acquisition genes FRO1, FRO2, IRT1, HA1, and FIT as well as the FRA. These results highlight the mechanisms involved in the Fe acquisition as mediated by IPF M. brunneum EAMa 01/58-Su strain.