bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fecal Calprotectin, Chitinase 3-Like-1, S100A12 and Osteoprotegerin as Markers of Disease Activity in Children with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Volkers Adriaan G. , Appleton Laura , Gearry Richard B. , Frampton Christopher M. , de Voogd Floris A. E. , Peters van Ton Annemieke M. , Leach Steven T. , Lemberg Daniel A. , Day Andrew S.
Published: August 2022

Fecal calprotectin (FC), chitinase 3-like-1 protein (CHI3L1), S100A12 and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are biomarkers of intestinal inflammation. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate these biomarkers in a cohort of children with Crohn’s disease (CD) and compare them with other measures of disease activity. Stool samples from children with CD were used to measure FC, CHI3L1, S100A12 and OPG by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum inflammatory markers were measured and pediatric CD disease activity index (PCDAI) scores calculated. The simple endoscopic score for CD (SES-CD) was reported for a subgroup who underwent ileocolonoscopy corresponding with the stool samples. Sixty-five children were recruited. Children in clinical remission had lower FC and CHI3L1 levels than those with active disease (FC: 277 vs. 1648 µg/g, p = 0.012; CHI3L1: 23 vs. 227 ng/g, p = 0.013). FC levels differed between patients with clinically active or inactive isolated ileal CD. Although FC and CHI3L1 levels correlated strongly (r = 0.83), none of the fecal markers correlated well with serum markers. Only FC and OPG correlated with SES-CD scores (r = 0.57 and r = 0.48, respectively). In conclusion, FC correlated with both endoscopic and clinical disease activity and was the only biomarker that differentiated between active and inactive ileal CD. CHI3L1 also predicted clinical disease activity and correlated highly with FC. Further investigation of the role of CHI3L1 is required.
Service-Learning Experiences Related to Health Support Activities for Residents Who Have Returned Home after Evacuation Due to a Radiation Disaster
Authors: In Naoya , Tomisawa Toshiko , Mikami Kasumi , Urushizaka Mayumi , Tanaka Kotetsu , Itaki Chieko , Kitajima Maiko , Noto Yuka , Ohgino Ayako , Takamagi Shizuka , Takidai Kengo , Kitamiya Chiaki , Hosokawa Yoichiro , Kudo Kohsei , Osanai Minoru
Published: August 2022

Hirosaki University has regularly offered health support activities to residents of X town in Fukushima, and thus, some interactive benefits are expected as a service-learning experience for nursing students. This study aimed to clarify the experiences of students who participated in service-learning and consider which methods and content were effective. In total, 52 nursing students were recruited into the program, which was held from 2018 to 2021. The roles of students included assisting in health consultations related to a radiation disaster. Questionnaires designed by researchers with experience in risk communication programs were conducted on the students after the program, and included the reasons why they joined, their most memorable experiences, and their opinions regarding required support for residents. The data were analyzed by content analysis. The nursing students thought about the health of residents through health support activities in the affected areas. Furthermore, by communicating with residents via on-site service-learning, they could experience the humanity of the residents and the current status of the affected areas, learn the importance of person-to-person relationships, and think about reconstruction. Thus, service-learning was found to be effective and to offer substantial benefits for both residents and students in affected areas.
Auxiliary Segmentation Method of Osteosarcoma in MRI Images Based on Denoising and Local Enhancement
Authors: Wang Luna , Yu Liao , Zhu Jun , Tang Haoyu , Gou Fangfang , Wu Jia
Published: August 2022

Osteosarcoma is a bone tumor which is malignant. There are many difficulties when doctors manually identify patients’ MRI images to complete the diagnosis. The osteosarcoma in MRI images is very complex, making its recognition and segmentation resource-consuming. Automatic osteosarcoma area segmentation can solve these problems to a certain extent. However, existing studies usually fail to balance segmentation accuracy and efficiency. They are either sensitive to noise with low accuracy or time-consuming. So we propose an auxiliary segmentation method based on denoising and local enhancement. The method first optimizes the osteosarcoma images, including removing noise using the Edge Enhancement based Transformer for Medical Image Denoising (Eformer) and using a non-parameter method to localize and enhance the tumor region in MRI images. Osteosarcoma was then segmented by Deep Feature Aggregation for Real-Time Semantic Segmentation (DFANet). Our method achieves impressive segmentation accuracy. Moreover, it is efficient in both time and space. It can provide information about the location and extent of the osteosarcoma as a basis for further diagnosis.
Characteristics of Walk-In Patients and Related Factors in a Dental University Hospital
Authors: Jeon Won Hwa , Kim Bomgyeol , Kim Do Hee , Lee Sang Gyu , Jang Suk-Yong , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to identify the characteristics of walk-in patients who visited a dental university hospital more than once (returning patient). The factors affecting walk-in visits were analyzed in relation to demographic, appointment, and treatment characteristics among 146,567 cases treated between 1 March 2019 and 29 February 2020. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess factors influencing walk-in visits. The walk-in rate was 14.1%. The likelihood of walk-in visits was higher in men, patients aged 20–39 years, patients residing in Seoul, and hospital employees or their family members. Walk-in visits were more likely to take place from 8:00 to 9:59 and on Saturdays and Mondays. The walk-in odds ratios differed depending on the treatment department and diagnosis. Return patients had higher odds of walk-in visits for treatments not covered by insurance. The probability of being a walk-in patient was lower among patients who also received treatment in other departments on the same day than among those who did not. These results indicate that each examined factor has a predictable pattern. The findings also suggest a relatively high percentage of walk-in cases in dental university hospitals and that walk-in patients differ in their characteristics from patients with appointments.
Adults Suffering from Violence Are at Risk of Poor Prognosis in Taiwan, 2000–2015
Authors: Fann Li-Yun , Lin Iau-Jin , Huang Shi-Hao , Wang Bing-Long , Huang Yao-Ching , Yu Chia-Peng , Cheng Chih-Chien , Sun Chien-An , Hsu Cheng-Wei , Chien Wu-Chien , Lu Chieh-Hua
Published: August 2022

Objective: To understand the risk of developing a poor prognosis in adulthood after violent injury in Taiwan. Methods: This study used the data of outpatients, from emergency departments, and from hospitalization of 2 million people under National Health Insurance from 2000 to 2015. The ICD-9 diagnostic code N-code was defined as the case of this study and was 995.8 (abused adult) or E-code was E960-E969 (homicide and intentional injury by others) The first violent injury of 18–64-year-old adults (the study group) was analyzed. Patients who had not suffered violent abuse were the control group. The groups were matched in a 1:4 ratio, and the paired variables were gender, age ±1 year, Charlson Comorbidity index (CCI) before exposure, and year of medical treatment. SAS 9.4 statistical software was used, and the Cox regression method was used for data analysis. Results: During the 15-year period, a total of 8726 people suffered from violence (34,904 controls). The incidences of common poor prognoses among the victims of violence were sleep disorder, anxiety, and depression, in 33.9%, 21.6%, and 13.2% of people, respectively. The risk (Adults, Overall) of developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and manic disorder after being violently injured (average 9 years) was 34.86, 4.4, and 4.1 times higher than those who had not suffered violence (all p values < 0.01). The risk (Adults, Males) of developing PTSD, bipolar disorder, and manic disorder after being violently injured (average 9 years) was 30.0, 3.81, and 2.85 times higher, respectively, than those who had not suffered violence (all p values < 0.01). The risk (Adults, Females) of developing PTSD, manic disorder, and bipolar disorder after being violently injured (average 9 years) was 36.8, 6.71, and 5.65 times higher, respectively, than of those who had not suffered violence (all p values < 0.01). Conclusion: The risks of poor prognosis are higher in adults who have suffered violent abuse than in those who have not. Therefore, police, social workers, and medical personnel should pay attention to the mental state of victims of violence. They should aim to support prompt treatment, to avoid PTSD, bipolar disorder, manic disorder, etc.
Therapeutic Outcome of MR-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MR-HIFU) in Solitary versus Multiple Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Erber Bernd , Schwarze Vincent , Strobl Frederik , Burges Alexander , Mahner Sven , Goller Sophia Samira , Rudolph Jan , Ricke Jens , Sabel Bastian Oliver
Published: August 2022

MR-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (MR-HIFU) is an effective method for treating symptomatic uterine fibroids, especially solitary lesions. The aim of our study was to compare the clinical and morphological outcomes of patients who underwent MR-HIFU due to solitary fibroid (SF) or multiple fibroids (MFs) in a prospective clinical trial. We prospectively included 21 consecutive patients with SF (10) and MF (11) eligible for MR-guided HIFU. The morphological data were assessed using mint Lesion™ for MRI. The clinical data were determined using the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire before and 6 months after treatment. Unpaired and paired Wilcoxon-test and t-tests were applied, and Pearson’s coefficient was used for correlation analysis. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The volume of treated fibroids significantly decreased in both the SF (mean baseline: 118.6 cm3; mean 6-month follow-up: 64.6 cm3) and MF (107.2 cm3; 55.1 cm3) groups. The UFS-QOL showed clinical symptoms significantly improved for patients in both the SF and MF groups regarding concern, activities, energy/mood, and control. The short-term outcome for the treatment of symptomatic fibroids in myomatous uterus by MR-guided HIFU is clinically similar to that of solitary fibroids.
The Maltreatment–Aggression Link among Prosecuted Males: What about Psychopathy?
Authors: Woehrle Laura , Retz-Junginger Petra , Retz Wolfgang , Barra Steffen
Published: August 2022

Criminal offenders constitute a high-risk sample regarding experiences of childhood maltreatment and engagement in severe aggression. Moreover, psychopathic traits are more common in samples of offenders than non-offenders. Although research has underlined the relationship between childhood maltreatment and adult aggression, the influence of psychopathy on this link is still unclear. We examined the dynamics of maltreatment, aggression, and psychopathy in a mixed sample of 239 male violent, sexual, and other offenders using latent factor structural equation modeling. We found a consistent positive association of maltreatment with aggression. Psychopathy did not mediate this relation. Maltreatment was not associated with psychopathy, although psychopathy had a positive effect on aggressive behavior. These dynamics appeared similar for violent, sexual, and other offenders. However, latent variables were constructed somewhat differently depending on the offender status. For instance, sexual abuse appeared to be of specific importance in sexual offenders. Violent offenders showed high rates of psychopathy compared to sexual and other offenders. The current findings may inspire future research to focus more closely on the different subtypes of psychopathy when examining its role in the prediction of aggression based on childhood maltreatment. Moreover, childhood maltreatment must not be neglected in treatment and prevention approaches aimed at reducing the risk of aggressive behavior.
Decreases in Arterial Stiffness and Wave Reflection after Isometric Handgrip Training Are Associated with Improvements in Cognitive Function in Older Adults
Authors: Okamoto Takanobu , Hashimoto Yuto
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate whether decreases in arterial stiffness and wave reflection after isometric handgrip (IHG) training improve cognitive function in older adults. Twenty-two older adults (mean age ± standard error: 75 ± 2 years) were randomly assigned to either a group that performed IHG training (IHG group, n = 11) or a sedentary control group (CON group, n = 11). The IHG exercise comprised four unilateral 2-minute isometric contractions at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction using a programmed handgrip dynamometer with 1-minute rest periods, performed 5 days per week for 8 weeks. Carotid pulse wave velocity (cPWV) and carotid augmentation index (cAIx) were measured, and the trail-making test (TMT) parts A (TMT-A) and B (TMT-B) were performed before (baseline) and after 8 weeks of training in both groups. After 8 weeks of training, cPWV, cAIx, TMT-A, and TMT-B were significantly reduced in the IHG group (p < 0.05). Significant positive correlations were found between the amount of change in cPWV and cAIx and that in TMT-A (p < 0.05 each). In addition, positive correlation trends were observed between the amount of change in cPWV and cAIx and that in TMT-B (p = 0.06, p = 0.05, respectively). The results of the present study suggest that IHG training-induced decreases in arterial stiffness and wave reflection are associated with improvements in cognitive function in older adults.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Consumption of Dietary Supplements among Adult Residents of Lithuania
Authors: Arlauskas Rokas , Austys Donatas , Stukas Rimantas
Published: August 2022

In the light of the changing pattern of the consumption of dietary supplements among adults in other countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, we aim to assess the prevalence of the consumption of dietary supplements with respect to the purpose of consumption and sociodemographic factors among adults in Lithuania. This study included two samples of adults from Lithuania: 870 in 2019 and 1600 in 2021. Anonymous original questionnaires were used to collect the data about the consumption of dietary supplements before and during the pandemic. The consumption of dietary supplements was prevalent among 67.2% and 78.1% of the samples, respectively. Although the majority (73.7%) of the respondents indicated that the pandemic had no effect on their use of dietary supplements, every fourth respondent’s (24.6%) consumption increased. In 2021, the consumption was more prevalent among females, respondents with university education, urban citizens, employed respondents, respondents without children, with higher income, and those who knew a person with COVID-19 (p < 0.05). During the pandemic, the strengthening of the immune system and the body were the leading reasons for consumption (49.0% and 43.5%, respectively). The consumption of dietary supplements appropriate for these purposes increased among 63.3% and 66.9% of respondents, respectively. To conclude, the consumption of dietary supplements among adults in Lithuania increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Three-Dimensional Evaluation of the Frontal Sinus in Koreans
Authors: Lee Jeong-Hyun , Park Jong-Tae
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Among the four paranasal sinuses, the frontal sinus is in the frontal bone. Recent research trends have been focusing on identifying sex based on the frontal sinus. Thus, this study aimed to provide reference data for the frontal sinus in Korean adults by comparing their sizes using a 3D program. Moreover, this study examined the correlation between the size of the frontal sinus and the length of cranial bone. (2) Methods: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data were obtained from 60 (male 30, female 30) patients in their 20 s who visited the Department of Dankook University Hospital (DKUDH IRB 2020-01-007). The provided patient CBCT data were utilized to reconstruct the patients’ frontal sinuses and cranial bones in 3D using the Mimics (version 22.0, Materialise, Leuven, Belgium) 3D program. All measurements were analyzed using SPSS (ver. 23.0, IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA). (3) Results: By comparing the frontal sinus size of Korean adults according to sex using a 3D program, this study revealed that males had larger frontal sinuses than females. (4) Conclusions: The findings of this study could help in preventing complications that occur in various clinical treatments and analyzing the growth of the frontal sinus in the future.
Arsenic Mobilization and Transformation by Ammonium-Generating Bacteria Isolated from High Arsenic Groundwater in Hetao Plain, China
Authors: Jiang Zhou , Shen Xin , Shi Bo , Cui Mengjie , Wang Yanhong , Li Ping
Published: August 2022

Arsenic (As) mobilization in groundwater involves biogeochemical cycles of carbon, iron, and sulfur. However, few studies have focused on the role of nitrogen-metabolizing bacteria in As mobilization, as well as in the transformation between inorganic and organic As in groundwater. In this study, the nitrogen and As metabolisms of Citrobacter sp. G-C1 and Paraclostridium sp. G-11, isolated from high As groundwater in Hetao Plain, China, were characterized by culture experiments and genome sequencing. The results showed Citrobacter sp. G-C1 was a dissimilatory nitrate-reducing bacterium. The dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (DNRA) and As-detoxifying pathways identified in the genome enabled Citrobacter sp. G-C1 to simultaneously reduce As(V) during DNRA. Paraclostridium sp. G-11 was a nitrogen-fixing bacterium and its nitrogen-fixing activity was constrained by As. Nitrogen fixation and the As-detoxifying pathways identified in its genome conferred the capability of As(V) reduction during nitrogen fixation. Under anaerobic conditions, Citrobacter sp. G-C1 was able to demethylate organic As and Paraclostridium sp. G-11 performed As(III) methylation with the arsM gene. Collectively, these results not only evidenced that ammonium-generating bacteria with the ars operon were able to transform As(V) to more mobile As(III) during nitrogen-metabolizing processes, but also involved the transformation between inorganic and organic As in groundwater.
Measuring Green Exposure Levels in Communities of Different Economic Levels at Different Completion Periods: Through the Lens of Social Equity
Authors: Cui Qinyu , Huang Yiting , Yang Guang , Chen Yu
Published: August 2022

Exposure to green spaces contributes to residents’ physical and mental health and well-being. The equitable allocation of green space has also become an increasingly important issue for society and the government. This study takes 3281 communities in Shenzhen as the analysis units. Using web crawlers, semantic segmentation based on deep learning, web map path planning and entropy weighting methods, four types of residents’ daily green exposure indicators are calculated, including community green space ratio, green view index (GVI), park accessibility, and the weighted composite green exposure index. The results reveal inequalities in the level of green exposure in Shenzhen’s communities across economic classes, mainly in GVI and comprehensive green exposure. We also found that the level of composite green exposure is relatively stable; however, green space ratio attainment levels for newer communities are increasing and GVI and park accessibility attainment levels are decreasing. Finally, among the newly built communities: compared to the low-income level communities, the high-income level communities have a significant advantage in green space, but the mid-income level communities do not have such an advantage. The main findings of this study can provide policy implications for urban green space planning, including the need to prioritize the addition of public green space near older communities with poor levels of green exposure, the addition of street greenery near communities with poor levels of composite green exposure, and ensuring that parks have entrances in all four directions as far as possible.
Using Attributes Explicitly Reflecting User Preference in a Self-Attention Network for Next POI Recommendation
Authors: Li Ruijing , Guo Jianzhong , Liu Chun , Li Zheng , Zhang Shaoqing
Published: August 2022

With the popularity of location-based social networks such as Weibo and Twitter, there are many records of points of interest (POIs) showing when and where people have visited certain locations. From these records, next POI recommendation suggests the next POI that a target user might want to visit based on their check-in history and current spatio-temporal context. Current next POI recommendation methods mainly apply different deep learning models to capture user preferences by learning the nonlinear relations between POIs and user preference and pay little attention to mining or using the information that explicitly reflects user preference. In contrast, this paper proposes to utilize data that explicitly reflect user preference and include these data in a deep learning-based process to better capture user preference. Based on the self-attention network, this paper utilizes the attributes of the month of the check-ins and the categories of check-ins during this time, which indicate the periodicity of the user’s work and life and can reflect the habits of users. Moreover, considering that distance has a significant impact on a user’s decision of whether to visit a POI, we used a filter to remove candidate POIs that were more than a certain distance away when recommending the next POIs. We use check-in data from New York City (NYC) and Tokyo (TKY) as datasets, and experiments show that these improvements improve the recommended performance of the next POI. Compared with the state-of-the-art methods, the proposed method improved the recall rate by 7.32% on average.
High-Precision Dynamic Traffic Noise Mapping Based on Road Surveillance Video
Authors: Sun Yanjie , Wu Mingguang , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhou Liangchen
Published: August 2022

High-precision dynamic traffic noise maps can describe the spatial and temporal distributions of noise and are necessary for actual noise prevention. Existing monitoring point-based methods suffer from limited spatial adaptability, and prediction model-based methods are limited by the requirements for traffic and environmental parameter specifications. Road surveillance video data are effective for computing and analyzing dynamic traffic-related factors, such as traffic flow, vehicle speed and vehicle type, and environmental factors, such as road material, weather and vegetation. Here, we propose a road surveillance video-based method for high-precision dynamic traffic noise mapping. First, it identifies dynamic traffic elements and environmental elements from videos. Then, elements are converted from image coordinates to geographic coordinates by video calibration. Finally, we formalize a dynamic noise mapping model at the lane level. In an actual case analysis, the average error is 1.53 dBA. As surveillance video already has a high coverage rate in most cities, this method can be deployed to entire cities if needed.
Prediction of Urban Sprawl by Integrating Socioeconomic Factors in the Batticaloa Municipal Council, Sri Lanka
Authors: Seevarethnam Mathanraj , Rusli Noradila , Ling Gabriel Hoh Teck
Published: August 2022

Due to extensive population growth, urbanization increases urban development and sprawl in the world’s cities. Urban sprawl is a socioeconomic phenomenon that has not extensively incorporated socioeconomic factors in the prediction of most of the urban sprawl models. This study aimed to predict the urban sprawl pattern in 2030 by integrating socioeconomic and biophysical factors. NDBI, Cramer’s V, logistic regression, and CA-Markov analyses were used to classify and predict built-up patterns. The built-up area is the dominant land use, which had a gradual growth from 1990 to 2020. A total of 20 socioeconomic and biophysical factors were identified as potentials in the municipality, affecting the urban sprawl. Policy regulation was the most attractive driver with a positive association, and land value had a high inverse association. Three prediction scenarios for urban sprawl were achieved for 2030. Higher sprawling growth is expected in scenario 3, compared with scenarios 1 and 2. Scenario 3 was simulated with biophysical and socioeconomic factors. This study aids in addressing urban sprawl at different spatial and temporal scales and helps urban planners and decision makers enhance the development strategies in the municipality. Predicted maps with different scenarios can support evaluating future sprawling growth and be used to develop sustainable planning for the city.
Phytoecdysteroids: Distribution, Structural Diversity, Biosynthesis, Activity, and Crosstalk with Phytohormones
Authors: Arif Yamshi , Singh Priyanka , Bajguz Andrzej , Hayat Shamsul
Published: August 2022

Phytoecdysteroids (PEs) are naturally occurring polyhydroxylated compounds with a structure similar to that of insect molting hormone and the plant hormone brassinosteroids. PEs have a four-ringed skeleton composed of 27, 28, 29, or 30 carbon atoms (derived from plant sterols). The carbon skeleton of ecdysteroid is known as cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene and has a β-sidechain on C-17. Plants produce PEs via the mevalonate pathway with the help of the precursor acetyl-CoA. PEs are found in algae, fungi, ferns, gymnosperms, and angiosperms; more than 500 different PEs are found in over 100 terrestrial plants. 20-hydroxyecdysone is the most common PE. PEs exhibit versatile biological roles in plants, invertebrates, and mammals. These compounds contribute to mitigating biotic and abiotic stresses. In plants, PEs play a potent role in enhancing tolerance against insects and nematodes via their allelochemical activity, which increases plant biological and metabolic responses. PEs promote enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems, which decrease reactive oxygen species in the form of superoxide radicals and hydroxyl radicals and reduce malondialdehyde content. PEs also induce protein biosynthesis and modulate carbohydrate and lipid synthesis. In humans, PEs display biological, pharmacological, and medicinal properties, such as anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and tissue differentiation activity.
Theories and Molecular Basis of Vascular Aging: A Review of the Literature from VascAgeNet Group on Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Vascular Aging
Authors: Gkaliagkousi Eugenia , Lazaridis Antonios , Dogan Soner , Fraenkel Emil , Tuna Bilge Guvenc , Mozos Ioana , Vukicevic Milica , Yalcin Ozlem , Gopcevic Kristina
Published: August 2022

Vascular aging, characterized by structural and functional alterations of the vascular wall, is a hallmark of aging and is tightly related to the development of cardiovascular mortality and age-associated vascular pathologies. Over the last years, extensive and ongoing research has highlighted several sophisticated molecular mechanisms that are involved in the pathophysiology of vascular aging. A more thorough understanding of these mechanisms could help to provide a new insight into the complex biology of this non-reversible vascular process and direct future interventions to improve longevity. In this review, we discuss the role of the most important molecular pathways involved in vascular ageing including oxidative stress, vascular inflammation, extracellular matrix metalloproteinases activity, epigenetic regulation, telomere shortening, senescence and autophagy.
Sex-Dependent Regulation of Placental Oleic Acid and Palmitic Acid Metabolism by Maternal Glycemia and Associations with Birthweight
Authors: Watkins Oliver C. , Yong Hannah E. J. , Mah Tania Ken Lin , Cracknell-Hazra Victoria K. B. , Pillai Reshma Appukuttan , Selvam Preben , Sharma Neha , Cazenave-Gassiot Amaury , Bendt Anne K. , Godfrey Keith M. , Lewis Rohan M. , Wenk Markus R. , Chan Shiao-Yng
Published: August 2022

Pregnancy complications such as maternal hyperglycemia increase perinatal mortality and morbidity, but risks are higher in males than in females. We hypothesized that fetal sex-dependent differences in placental palmitic-acid (PA) and oleic-acid (OA) metabolism influence such risks. Placental explants (n = 22) were incubated with isotope-labeled fatty acids (13C-PA or 13C-OA) for 24 or 48 h and the production of forty-seven 13C-PA lipids and thirty-seven 13C-OA lipids quantified by LCMS. Linear regression was used to investigate associations between maternal glycemia, BMI and fetal sex with 13C lipids, and between 13C lipids and birthweight centile. Placental explants from females showed greater incorporation of 13C-OA and 13C-PA into almost all lipids compared to males. Fetal sex also influenced relationships with maternal glycemia, with many 13C-OA and 13C-PA acylcarnitines, 13C-PA-diacylglycerols and 13C-PA phospholipids positively associated with glycemia in females but not in males. In contrast, several 13C-OA triacylglycerols and 13C-OA phospholipids were negatively associated with glycemia in males but not in females. Birthweight centile in females was positively associated with six 13C-PA and three 13C-OA lipids (mainly acylcarnitines) and was negatively associated with eight 13C-OA lipids, while males showed few associations. Fetal sex thus influences placental lipid metabolism and could be a key modulator of the impact of maternal metabolic health on perinatal outcomes, potentially contributing toward sex-specific adaptions in which females prioritize survival.
The Complement System, Aging, and Aging-Related Diseases
Authors: Zheng Runzi , Zhang Yanghuan , Zhang Ke , Yuan Yang , Jia Shuting , Liu Jing
Published: August 2022

The complement system is a part of the immune system and consists of multiple complement components with biological functions such as defense against pathogens and immunomodulation. The complement system has three activation pathways: the classical pathway, the lectin pathway, and the alternative pathway. Increasing evidence indicates that the complement system plays a role in aging. Complement plays a role in inflammatory processes, metabolism, apoptosis, mitochondrial function, and Wnt signaling pathways. In addition, the complement system plays a significant role in aging-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, age-related macular degeneration, and osteoarthritis. However, the effect of complement on aging and aging-related diseases is still unclear. Thus, a better understanding of the potential relationship between complement, aging, and aging-related diseases will provide molecular targets for treating aging, while focusing on the balance of complement in during treatment. Inhibition of a single component does not result in a good outcome. In this review, we discussed the research progress and effects of complement in aging and aging-related diseases.
Further Evidence of Neuroprotective Effects of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin and Growth Hormone in Hypoxic Brain Injury in Neonatal Mice
Authors: Klepper Simon , Jung Susan , Dittmann Lara , Geppert Carol I. , Hartmann Arnd , Beier Nicole , Trollmann Regina
Published: August 2022

Experimental in vivo data have recently shown complementary neuroprotective actions of rhEPO and growth hormone (rhGH) in a neonatal murine model of hypoxic brain injury. Here, we hypothesized that rhGH and rhEPO mediate stabilization of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and regenerative vascular effects in hypoxic injury to the developing brain. Using an established model of neonatal hypoxia, neonatal mice (P7) were treated i.p. with rhGH (4000 µg/kg) or rhEPO (5000 IU/kg) 0/12/24 h after hypoxic exposure. After a regeneration period of 48 h or 7 d, cerebral mRNA expression of Vegf-A, its receptors and co-receptors, and selected tight junction proteins were determined using qRT-PCR and ELISA. Vessel structures were assessed by Pecam-1 and occludin (Ocln) IHC. While Vegf-A expression increased significantly with rhGH treatment (p < 0.01), expression of the Vegfr and TEK receptor tyrosine kinase (Tie-2) system remained unchanged. RhEPO increased Vegf-A (p < 0.05) and Angpt-2 (p < 0.05) expression. While hypoxia reduced the mean vessel area in the parietal cortex compared to controls (p < 0.05), rhGH and rhEPO prevented this reduction after 48 h of regeneration. Hypoxia significantly reduced the Ocln+ fraction of cortical vascular endothelial cells. Ocln signal intensity increased in the cortex in response to rhGH (p < 0.05) and in the cortex and hippocampus in response to rhEPO (p < 0.05). Our data indicate that rhGH and rhEPO have protective effects on hypoxia-induced BBB disruption and regenerative vascular effects during the post-hypoxic period in the developing brain.
Special Issue “Tumors of the Nervous System: New Insights into Signaling, Genetics and Therapeutic Targeting”
Authors: Di Bartolomeo Sabrina , Segatto Marco
Published: August 2022

This Special Issue focused on the current understanding of signaling pathways as well as genetic and epigenetic features involved in the pathogenesis of brain tumors and other nervous system tumors, with emphasis on the development of novel therapeutic approaches aimed at improving the current standard of care [...]
Growth and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Sesame Seedlings with Gibberellin-Producing Rhodobacter sphaeroides SIR03 and Biochar
Authors: Kang Sang-Mo , Imran Muhammad , Shaffique Shifa , Kwon Eun-Hae , Park Yong-Sung , Lee In-Jung
Published: August 2022

The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with biochar is apprised to be a promising bio-fertilizer for improving the soil fertility and plant growth and development. The current study aimed to identify a potential plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium alongside biochar to improve sesame seedling productivity. Our results revealed that among the nine isolates, SIR01, SIR03, and SIR07 significantly improved the growth and biomass of sesame and Waito-C rice seedlings. The increase in growth of Waito-C rice seedlings through isolate SIR01, SIR03, and SIR07, suggests their ability to produce phytohormones such as GA4, GA9, GA24, and GA34. Furthermore, the application of isolate SIR03 and biochar together revealed a synergistic increase in sesame seedling growth and biomass (fresh and dry weight) compared with their individual applications. This may be explained by enhancement of photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll fluorescence, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate by the combined SIR03 and biochar treatment. This suggests that co-inoculation with SIR03 alongside the application of biochar can be considered an eco-friendly, low-cost bio-fertilizer to potentially improve sesame seedling growth and development.
Vehicle Routing Optimization for Non-Profit Organization Systems
Authors: Alhindi Ahmad , Alsaidi Abrar , Munshi Amr
Published: August 2022

The distributor management system has long been a challenge for many organizations and companies. Overall, successful distribution involves several moving entities and methods, requiring a resilient distribution management strategy powered by data analysis. For nonprofit organizations, the distribution system requires efficient distribution and management. This includes minimizing time, distance, and cost. As a consequence, service quality and financial efficiency can be achieved. This paper proposes a methodology to tackle the vehicle routing problems (VRP) faced by nonprofit organizations. The methodology consists of four subsequent approaches—greedy, intraroute, interroute, and tabu search—to improve the functionality and performance of nonprofit organizations. The methodology was validated by applying it to a real nonprofit organization. Furthermore, the proposed system was compared to another state-of-the-art system; the achieved results were satisfactory and suggest that this methodology is capable of handling the VRP accordingly, improving the functionality and performance of nonprofit organizations.
Propranolol: A “Pick and Roll” Team Player in Benign Tumors and Cancer Therapies
Authors: Albiñana Virginia , Gallardo-Vara Eunate , Casado-Vela Juan , Recio-Poveda Lucía , Botella Luisa María , Cuesta Angel M
Published: August 2022

Research on cancer therapies focuses on processes such as angiogenesis, cell signaling, stemness, metastasis, and drug resistance and inflammation, all of which are influenced by the cellular and molecular microenvironment of the tumor. Different strategies, such as antibodies, small chemicals, hormones, cytokines, and, recently, gene editing techniques, have been tested to reduce the malignancy and generate a harmful microenvironment for the tumor. Few therapeutic agents have shown benefits when administered alone, but a few more have demonstrated clear improvement when administered in combination with other therapeutic molecules. In 2008 (and for the first time in the clinic), the therapeutic benefits of the β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, propranolol, were described in benign tumors, such as infantile hemangioma. Propranolol, initially prescribed for high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, essential tremor, and anxiety, has shown, in the last decade, increasing evidence of its antitumoral properties in more than a dozen different types of cancer. Moreover, the use of propranolol in combination therapies with other drugs has shown synergistic antitumor effects. This review highlights the clinical trials in which propranolol is taking part as adjuvant therapy at single administration or in combinatorial human trials, arising as a good pick and roll partner in anticancer strategies.
Challenges and Perspectives for Clinical Applications of Immersive and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality
Authors: Fusco Augusto , Tieri Gaetano
Published: August 2022

The development of rehabilitative technologies able to increase the intensity and the amount of time for daily treatment as well as the patients’ motivation and interest is a high-priority area of scientific research [...]
Impact of Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation on Quality of Life
Authors: Rohrer Ursula , Manninger Martin , Zirlik Andreas , Scherr Daniel
Published: August 2022

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia in adults. It is a complex arrhythmia leading to increased morbidity and mortality requiring thorough assessment and classification to guide therapy and to assess whether to pursue rate or rhythm control therapy. To obtain rhythm control, several strategies are available with different advantages and disadvantages concerning success rate and safety. Apart from antiarrhythmic drugs, catheter ablation is a well-established invasive therapy to treat atrial fibrillation. As quality of life is a very important factor to pursue rhythm control, several studies investigated on the specific impact of catheter ablation on quality of life. Catheter ablation shows a beneficial effect on quality of life in paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation independent of the timepoint and strategy of catheter ablation.
Associated Corrective Procedures of Extra-Articular Asymptomatic Foot Malalignments in Total Ankle Replacement: Are They Really Mandatory?
Authors: Caravelli Silvio , Di Ponte Marco , Grassi Alberto , Zaffagnini Stefano , Mosca Massimiliano
Published: August 2022

In recent years, total ankle replacement (TAR) has undergone a series of evolutions and changes in terms of materials, prosthetic designs, and surgical techniques [...]
Antimicrobial Stewardship Interventions in Pediatric Oncology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Muratore Edoardo , Baccelli Francesco , Leardini Davide , Campoli Caterina , Belotti Tamara , Viale Pierluigi , Prete Arcangelo , Pession Andrea , Masetti Riccardo , Zama Daniele
Published: August 2022

Antimicrobial stewardship programs represent efficacious measures for reducing antibiotic overuse and improving outcomes in different settings. Specific data on pediatric oncology are lacking. We conducted a systematic review on the PubMed and Trip databases according to the PRISMA guidelines, searching for reports regarding antimicrobial stewardship in pediatric oncology and hematology patients. The aim of the study was to summarize the present literature regarding the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs or initiatives in this particular population, and provide insights for future investigations. Nine papers were included in the qualitative analysis: three regarding antifungal interventions, five regarding antibacterial interventions, and one regarding both antifungal and antibacterial stewardship interventions. Variable strategies were reported among the included studies. Different parameters were used to evaluate the impact of these interventions, including days of therapy per 1000-patient-days, infections with resistant strains, safety analysis, and costs. We generally observed a reduction in the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics and an improved appropriateness, with reduced antibiotic-related side effects and no difference in infection-related mortality. Antibiotic stewardship programs or interventions are effective in reducing antibiotic consumption and improving outcomes in pediatric oncology hematology settings, although stewardship strategies differ substantially in different institutions. A standardized approach needs to be implemented in future studies in order to better elucidate the impact of stewardship programs in this category of patients.
Fascial Manipulation Method Is Effective in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain, but the Treatment Protocol Matters: A Randomised Control Trial—Preliminary Report
Authors: Pawlukiewicz Mateusz , Kochan Michał , Niewiadomy Paweł , Szuścik-Niewiadomy Katarzyna , Taradaj Jakub , Król Piotr , Kuszewski Michał T.
Published: August 2022

Background: There are many therapeutic methods targeting fascia. However, the only method whose basic assumption is to eliminate the densification of fascia is Fascial Manipulation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of various Fascial Manipulation (FM) protocols in reducing myofascial pain. Design: Randomized control trial. Subjects: A total of 54 individuals, aged 18–29 years, with musculoskeletal pain for at least 1 week. Methods: The patients were divided into four groups subjected to different treatment protocols: group 1—underwent the standard FM treatment protocol (STP), group 2—modified protocol (MTP), group 3—modified protocol 2 (MTP2), and the control group (CG)—did not undergo any therapy. Each protocol involved three treatments at intervals of 7–10 days and a follow-up examination after 30 days. The outcome was pain level measured using the VAS. Results: In the STP, all the measurements showed a significant decrease in pain level—the mean difference was 2.077 after the first treatment, 3.462 after the third treatment and 3.385 in the follow-up. In the MTP, a significant mean difference was noted after the third treatment, 3, and in the follow up, 2.4. In the MTP2, it was noted after the third session, 2, and in the follow up, 2.25. Only the CG group did not display significant changes. Conclusions: FM-based therapy results in pain relief. However, there are differences in the dynamics and durability of the results depending on the chosen protocol.
The Modified Longitudinal Capsulotomy by Outside-In Approach in Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroplasty and Acetabular Labrum Repair—A Cohort Study
Authors: Cong Shuang , Pan Jianying , Huang Guangxin , Xie Denghui , Zeng Chun
Published: August 2022

Hip arthroscopy is difficult to perform due to the limited arthroscopic view. To solve this problem, the capsulotomy is an important technique. However, the existing capsulotomy approaches were not perfect in the surgical practice. Thus, this study aimed to propose a modified longitudinal capsulotomy by outside-in approach and demonstrate its feasibility and efficacy in arthroscopic femoroplasty and acetabular labrum repair. A retrospective cohort study was performed and twenty-two postoperative patients who underwent hip arthroscopy in our hospital from January 2019 to December 2021 were involved in this study. The patients (14 females and 8 males) had a mean age of 38.26 ± 12.82 years old. All patients were diagnosed cam deformity and labrum tear in the operation and underwent arthroscopic femoroplasty and labrum repair by the modified longitudinal capsulotomy. The mean follow-up time was 10.4 months with a range of 6–12 months. There were no major complications, including infection, neurapraxias, hip instability or revision in any patients. The average mHHS were 74.4 ± 15.2, 78.2 ± 13.7 and 85.7 ± 14.5 in 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after surgery, respectively, which were all better than that before surgery (44.9 ± 8.6) (p < 0.05). The average VAS were 2.8 ± 1.2, 1.5 ± 0.6 and 1.2 ± 0.7 in 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after surgery, respectively, which were all lower than that before surgery (5.5 ± 2.0) (p < 0.05). The modified longitudinal capsulotomy by outside-in approach is proved to be a safe and feasible method for hip arthroscopy considering to the feasibility, efficacy and security. The arthroscopic femoroplasty and labrum repair can be performed conveniently by this approach and the patient reported outcomes after surgery were better that before surgery in short-term follow-up. This new method is promising and suggested to be widely used clinically.
Incidence and Risk Factors Affecting the Recurrence of Primary Retinal Detachment in a Tertiary Hospital in Spain
Authors: Irigoyen Cristina , Goikoetxea-Zubeldia Ainhoa , Sanchez-Molina Jorge , Amenabar Alonso Asier , Ruiz-Miguel Miguel , Iglesias-Gaspar Maria Teresa
Published: August 2022

(1) Objective: To determine the incidence, visual outcomes and risk factors associated with the recurrence of primary retinal detachment (RD) in a tertiary hospital. (2) Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted, and data were collected on all eyes diagnosed with primary RD between January 2017 and December 2020. A detailed database was generated with data on anatomic and visual outcomes, and surgical technique information, for all the cases. (3) Results: 570 eyes with primary RD were included. Mean annual incidence of primary RD was 21.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Mean follow-up time was 465 (±410.5) days. Mean time to redetachment was 114.4 (±215.8) days, with the median being 35 days. Statistically significant variables related to a higher risk of recurrence were: male sex (p = 0.04), type of tamponade (p = 0.01), surgeon (p = 0.035), inferonasal (p = 0.002) and inferotemporal (p = 0.032) involvement, complex RD (p < 0.001) and ocular comorbidity (p < 0.001). More satisfactory final visual acuity (VA) in patients not suffering redetachment was associated with shorter duration of central vision loss. (4) Conclusions: Sex, type of tamponade, inferior detachment, RD complexity, surgeon and ocular comorbidity were identified as prognostic factors for recurrence. Worse final postoperative VA was found in patients referring central vision loss for more than 4 days before surgery.