bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Clinicoradiological Phenotypes in Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Clavaguera Teresa , Reyner Patrícia , Buxó Maria , Valls Marta , Armengol Eulàlia , Juanola Xavier
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a bone formation disease in which only skeletal signs are considered in classification criteria. The aim of the study was to describe different phenotypes in DISH patients based on clinicoradiological features. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 97 patients who met the Resnick or modified Utsinger classification criteria for DISH and were diagnosed at our hospital from 2004 to 2015. Patients were stratified into: (a) peripheral pattern (PP)—Resnick criteria not met but presenting ≥3 peripheral enthesopathies; (b) axial pattern (AP)—Resnick criteria met but <3 enthesopathies; and (c) mixed pattern (MP)—Resnick criteria met with ≥3 enthesopathies. Statistical analysis was carried out to identify variables that might predict classification in a given group. Results: Fifty-six of the 97 patients included (57.7%) were male and 72.2% fulfilled the Resnick criteria. Applying our classification, 39.7% were stratified as MP, 30.9% as AP and 29.4% as PP. Clinical enthesopathy was reported in 40.2% of patients during the course of the disease. Sixty-eight patients were included in a comparative analysis of variables between DISH patterns. The results showed a predominance of women (p < 0.004), early onset (p < 0.03), hip involvement (p < 0.003) and enthesitis (p < 0.001) as hallmarks of PP. Asymptomatic patients were most frequently observed in AP (28.6%, MP 3.8%, PP 5.0%) while MP was characterized by a more extensive disease. Conclusions: We believe DISH has distinct phenotypes and describe a PP phenotype that is not usually considered. Extravertebral manifestations should be included in the new classification criteria in order to cover the entire spectrum of the disease.
HLA-G 14bp Ins/Del Polymorphism in the 3′UTR Region and Acute Rejection in Kidney Transplant Recipients: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kang Sang Wook , Oh Eunkyung , Cho Wonwoo , Kim Minseok , Park Eo Jin , Kwack Kyu Hwan , Chung Kang , Nam Ok Hyung , Chae Yong Kwon , Ban Ju Yeon
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects the survival rate of kidney transplant organs and patients. Acute rejection (AR) due to AKI may lead to kidney transplantation failure. It is known that there is a relationship between human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G), which is involved in immune regulation, and AR in transplant patients. Moreover, 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) region of the HLA-G gene is known to affect HLA-G expression. However, its relationship to AR is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate whether HLA-G 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism contributed to the development of AR in kidney transplant patients using a meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: To perform our meta-analysis, eligible studies about HLA-G 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism and AR were searched in electronic databases until 1 June 2021. Finally, a total of 336 patients with AR and 952 patients without AR in relation to kidney transplantation were analyzed from a total of nine studies. Results: In our results, the Del allele and Ins/Del+Del/Del and Del/Del genotypes significantly increased susceptibility of AR in Asian populations [odds ratio (OR) = 2.359, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.568–3.550, p = 3.8 × 10−5; OR = 3.357, 95% CI = 1.769–6.370, p = 0.002; OR = 2.750, 95% CI = 1.354–5.587, p = 0.0052 in each model, respectively]. Conclusions: Evidence of the present results indicate that HLA-G 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to AR in the Asian population.
A Six-Year Prospective Comparative Study of Wide and Standard Diameter Implants in the Maxillary and Mandibular Posterior Area
Authors: Wadhwa Puneet , Kim Seung-Kook , Kim Hyun-Jin , Lim Ho-Kyung , Jia Qi , Jiang Heng-Bo , Lee Eui-Seok
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: The aim of our study was to test whether wide diameter (6 mm) implants perform differently from standard diameter (4 mm) implants in terms of marginal bone level and survival rate. Materials and Methods: Our sample comprised 72 patients who underwent surgery; a total of 80 implants were placed in the maxillary or mandibular molar region. Patients were divided into two groups according to the diameter of the implant, and were followed up for six years after the final setting of the prosthetics. In the test group, 40 implants with 6-mm diameter were inserted; in the control group, 40 standard diameter implants were inserted. Using panoramic radiographs, we investigated mesial and distal marginal bone levels around the implant fixtures. Results: After the first implant surgery, three implants, including one wide diameter and two standard diameter implants, failed due to lack of osseointegration. We did not note any fixture fracture during the six-year follow-up. After loading, we observed a six-year survival rate of 97.29% with no statistically significant difference from standard diameter implants, with a survival rate of 94.87%. Conclusions: This study shows that 6-mm diameter implants may be considered in the presence of adequate alveolar ridge width in the posterior maxillary and mandibular regions.
Acute Transverse Myelitis after COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Ting , Tsai Ming-Jen , Chen Ying-Hao , Hsu Chi-Feng
Published: September 2021

The adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccine have been discovered as the rapid application of the vaccines continues. Neurological complications such as transverse myelitis raise concerns as cases were observed in clinical trials. Transverse myelitis is a rare immune-mediated disease with spinal cord neural injury, resulting in neurological deficits in the motor, sensory, and autonomic system. Vaccine-related transverse myelitis is even rarer. We present a case of acute transverse myelitis after vaccination against COVID-19 with the ChAdOx1 nCOV-19 vaccine (AZD1222), which was the first case reported in Taiwan. Although it rarely occurs, post-vaccination neurological complications should not be ignored. As the pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 continues to spread and concern about vaccination efficacy and safety rises, heterologous vaccination were implemented in health public policy in several countries. A literature review of several clinical trials shows promising effects of mix-and-match vaccination. Further study on different combinations of vaccines can be expected.
Serum Angiopoietin-like Protein 3 Level Is Associated with Peripheral Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Hsiao Chien-Hao , Chen Yu-Chih , Wang Ji-Hung , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) is a secretory protein regulating lipid metabolism. This study evaluated the relationship between serum ANGPTL3 level and peripheral arterial stiffness (PAS) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Materials and Methods: Fasting blood samples were collected from 95 CAD patients. PAS was defined as left or right brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) > 18.0 m/s by an oscillometric method. Serum ANGPTL3 levels were assessed using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: Seventeen CAD patients (17.9%) had PAS. Patients with PAS had a significantly higher percentage of diabetes (p = 0.002), older age (p = 0.030), higher systolic blood pressure (p = 0.016), higher fasting glucose (p = 0.008), serum C-reactive protein (p = 0.002), and ANGPTL3 level (p = 0.001) than those without PAS. After multivariable logistic regression analysis, serum ANGPTL3 level (Odds ratio (OR): 1.004, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.000–1.007, p = 0.041) is still independently associated with PAS in CAD patients. The receiver operating characteristic curve for PAS prediction revealed that the area under the curve for ANGPTL3 level was 0.757 (95% CI: 0.645–0.870, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Serum fasting ANGPTL3 level is positively associated with PAS in CAD patients. Further studies are required for clarification.
Turning a Corner in ME/CFS Research
Authors: Pheby Derek F. H. , Friedman Kenneth J. , Murovska Modra , Zalewski Pawel
Published: September 2021

This collection of research papers addresses fundamental questions concerning the nature of myalgic encephalomyelitis/ chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), the problem of disbelief and lack of knowledge and understanding of the condition among many doctors and the origins of this problem, and its impact on patients and their families. We report briefly the growing knowledge of the underlying pathological processes in ME/CFS, and the development of new organizations, including Doctors with ME, the US ME/CFS Clinical Coalition and EUROMENE, to address aspects of the challenges posed by the illness. We discuss the implications of COVID-19, which has much in common with ME/CFS, with much overlap of symptoms, and propose a new taxonomic category, which we are terming post-active phase of infection syndromes (PAPIS) to include both. This collection of papers includes a number of papers reporting similar serious impacts on the quality of life of patients and their families in various European countries. The advice of EUROMENE experts on diagnosis and management is included in the collection. We report this in light of guidance from other parts of the world, including the USA and Australia, and in the context of current difficulties in the UK over the promulgation of a revised guideline from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). We also consider evidence on the cost-effectiveness of interventions for ME/CFS, and on the difficulties of determining the costs of care when a high proportion of people with ME/CFS are never diagnosed as such. The Special Issue includes a paper which is a reminder of the importance of a person-centred approach to care by reviewing mind–body interventions. Finally, another paper reviews the scope for prevention in minimizing the population burden of ME/CFS, and concludes that secondary prevention, through early detection and diagnosis, could be of value.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Secondary Organizing Pneumonia after Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Kimura Tomoyuki , Onitsuka Chisato , Kawahara Tomoko , Fukuda Yosuke , Homma Tetsuya , Watanabe Taro , Ohsugi Koichi , Ichikawa Yuki , Shono Atsuko , Kotani Toru , Sagara Hironori
Published: September 2021

(Background) COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection and may result in unfavorable outcomes. A recent large-scale study showed that treatment with dexamethasone leads to favorable outcomes in patients with severe COVID-19, and the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has also been shown to improve outcomes. Recently, secondary organizing pneumonia (SOP) has been reported after SARS-CoV-2 infection, but the diagnostic and treatment strategies are still unclear. (Case presentation) Here, we report a patient with severe COVID-19 who developed SOP even after the use of dexamethasone, for whom the introduction of ECMO on the 19th day after hospitalization led to a favorable outcome. (Conclusions) Life-threatening SOP may evolve even after the use of dexamethasone, and the late-phase introduction of ECMO may save such patients with COVID-19.
Biliopancreatic Endoscopy in Altered Anatomy
Authors: Tarantino Ilaria , Rizzo Giacomo Emanuele Maria
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Anatomical post-surgical alterations of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract have always been challenging for performing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, especially when biliopancreatic diseases are involved. Esophagectomy, gastrectomy with various reconstructions and pancreaticoduodenectomy are among the most common surgeries causing upper GI tract alterations. Technological improvements and new methods have increased the endoscopic success rate in these patients, and the literature has been rapidly increasing over the past few years. The aim of this systematic review is to identify evidence on the available biliopancreatic endoscopic techniques performed in the altered post-surgical anatomy of upper GI tract. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS databases. Study-level variables extracted were the last name of the first author, publication year, study design, number of patients, type of post-surgical anatomical alteration, endoscopic technique, success rate and endoscopic-related adverse events. Results: Our primary search identified 221 titles, which was expanded with studies after the citation search. The final full-text review process identified 52 articles (31 retrospective studies, 8 prospective studies and 13 case reports). We found several different techniques developed over the years for biliopancreatic diseases in altered anatomy, in order to perform both endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). They included enteroscopy-assisted ERCP (double and single balloon enteroscopy-ERCP, spiral enteroscopy-ERCP) laparoscopic assisted ERCP, EUS-Directed transgastric ERCP, EUS-directed transgastric intervention, gastric access temporary for endoscopy, and percutaneous assisted trans prosthetic endoscopic therapy. The success rate was high (most of the techniques showed a success rate over 90%) and a low rate of adverse events were reported. Conclusions: We suggest the considerationof the novel techniques when approaching patients with altered anatomy who require biliopancreatic endoscopy, focusing on the surgery type, success rate and adverse events reported in the literature.
Effects of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression on Lower Limb Lymphedema in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: de Sire Alessandro , Inzitari Maria Teresa , Moggio Lucrezia , Pinto Monica , de Sire Giustino , Supervia Marta , Petraroli Annalisa , Rubino Mariangela , Carbotti Delia , Succurro Elena , Ammendolia Antonio , Andreozzi Francesco
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) is a chronic disease associated with fluid accumulation in the interstitial tissue. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) plays a role in reducing lymphoedema, like intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC). By the present pilot study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a synergistic treatment with MLD and IPC in reducing lower limb lymphedema in T2DM patients. Materials and Methods: Adults with a clinical diagnosis of T2DM and lower limb lymphedema (stage II–IV) were recruited from July to December 2020. Study participants were randomized into two groups: experimental group, undergoing a 1-month rehabilitative program consisting of MLD and IPC (with a compression of 60 to 80 mmHg); control group, undergoing MLD and a sham IPC (with compression of <30 mmHg). The primary outcome was the lower limb lymphedema reduction, assessed by the circumferential method (CM). Secondary outcomes were: passive range of motion (pROM) of hip, knee, and ankle; quality of life; laboratory exams as fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c. At baseline (T0) and at the end of the 1-month rehabilitative treatment (T1), all the outcome measures were assessed, except for the Hb1Ac evaluated after three months. Results: Out of 66 T2DM patients recruited, only 30 respected the eligibility criteria and were randomly allocated into 2 groups: experimental group (n = 15; mean age: 54.2 ± 4.9 years) and control group (n = 15; mean age: 54.0 ± 5.5 years). At the intra-group analysis, the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement of all outcome measures (p < 0.05). The between-group analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in pROM of the hip, knee, ankle, EQ-VAS, and EQ5D3L index at T1. Conclusions: A multimodal approach consisting of IPC and MLD showed to play a role in reducing lower limb lymphedema, with an increase of pROM and HRQoL. Since these are preliminary data, further studies are needed.
Risk Factors for Catheter-Related Thrombosis in Multiple Myeloma Patients Undergoing Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Hoppe Anna , Rupa-Matysek Joanna , Małecki Bartosz , Dytfeld Dominik , Hoppe Krzysztof , Gil Lidia
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Cancer associated thrombosis (CAT) is a common complication of neoplasms. Multiple myeloma (MM) carries one of the highest risks of CAT, especially in the early phases of treatment. Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) as the standard of care in transplant-eligible patients with MM carries a risk of catheter-related thrombosis (CRT). The aim of this study was identification of the risk factors of CRT in MM patients undergoing ASCT in 2009–2019. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with MM undergoing ASCT. Each patient had central venous catheter (CVC) insertion before the procedure. The clinical symptoms of CRT (edema, redness, pain in the CVC insertion area) were confirmed with Doppler ultrasound examination. We examined the impacts of four groups of factors on CRT development: (1) patient-related: age, gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), obesity, Charlson comorbidity index, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation comorbidity index, renal insufficiency, and previous thrombotic history; (2) disease-related: monoclonal protein type, stage of the disease according to Salmon–Durie and International Staging System, number of prior therapy lines, and MM response before ASCT; (3) treatment-related: melphalan dose, transplant-related complications, and duration of post-ASCT neutropenia; (4) CVC-related: location, time from placement to removal. Results: Symptomatic CRT was present in 2.5% (7/276) of patients. Univariate analysis showed an increased risk of CRT in patients with a catheter-related infection (OR 2.4, 95% CI; 1.109–5.19, p = 0.026), previous thrombotic episode (OR 2.49, 95% CI; 1.15–5.39, p = 0.021), previous thrombotic episode on initial myeloma treatment (OR 2.75, 95% CI; 1.15–6.53, p = 0.022), and gastrointestinal complications of ASCT such as vomiting and diarrhea (OR 3.87, 95% CI; 1.57–9.53, p = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, noninfectious complications were associated with higher CRT incidence (OR 2.75, 95% CI; 1.10–6.19, p = 0.031). Conclusions: The incidence of symptomatic CRT in ASCT in MM was relatively low. Previous thrombotic events, especially during the induction of myeloma treatment, increased CRT risk during ASCT. Dehydration following gastrointestinal complications may predispose to higher CRT incidence.
Measuring Heart Rate Variability in Patients Admitted with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction for the Prediction of Subsequent Cardiovascular Events: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brinza Crischentian , Floria Mariana , Covic Adrian , Burlacu Alexandru
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: Ischemic heart disease represents the leading cause of death, emphasizing risk stratification and early therapeutic intervention. Heart rate variability (HRV), an indirect marker of autonomic nervous system activity, was investigated extensively as a risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events following acute myocardial infarction. Thus, we systematically reviewed the literature to investigate the association of HRV parameters with mortality and adverse cardiovascular events in patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Materials and methods: Following the search process in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane databases, nine studies were included in the final analysis. Results: Lower time-domain HRV parameters and a higher ratio between power in the low-frequency (LF) band and power in the high-frequency (HF) band (LF/HF) were associated with higher all-cause mortality during follow-up, even in patients treated mainly with percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Although most studies measured HRV on 24 h ECG recordings, short- and ultra-short-term measures (1 min and 10 s, respectively) were also associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Although data were discrepant, some studies found an association between HRV and cardiac mortality, reinfarction, and other major adverse cardiovascular events. Conclusions: In conclusion, HRV measurement in patients with STEMI could bring crucial prognostic information, as it was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality documented in clinical studies. More and larger clinical trials are required to validate these findings in contemporary patients with STEMI in the context of the new generation of drug-eluting stents and current antithrombotic and risk-modifying therapies.
Cyclic Progesterone Therapy in Androgenic Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)—A 6-Month Pilot Study of a Single Woman’s Experience Changes
Authors: Shirin Sonia , Murray Faye , Goshtasebi Azita , Kalidasan Dharani , Prior Jerilynn C.
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Women with androgenic Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have increased endometrial cancer risk that cyclic progesterone will prevent; it may also reverse PCOS’s neuroendocrine origins. This pilot study’s purpose was to document 6-month experience changes in a woman with PCOS taking cyclic progesterone therapy because she was intolerant of combined hormonal contraceptive therapy, the current PCOS standard of care. A 31-year-old normal-weight woman with PCOS had heavy flow, irregular cycles, and was combined hormonal contraceptives-intolerant. She was prescribed cyclic oral micronized progesterone (OMP) (300 mg/h.s. cycle days 14–27). She kept Menstrual Cycle Diary© (Diary) records, starting with the 1st treatment cycle for six cycles; she was on no other therapy. Statistical analysis a priori hypothesized progesterone decreases high estradiol (E2) experiences (flow, cervical mucus, fluid retention, front-of-the-breast tenderness and anxiety); analysis focused on these. Our objectives: (1) changes from cycles 1 to 6 in E2-related experiences; and (2) follicular phase E2-related changes from cycle 1 (no therapy) to cycles 3 and 6. Materials and Methods: Data from consecutive Diaries were entered into an SPSS database and analyzed by Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test (Objective #1) within-person whole cycle ordinal data, and (Objective #2 follicular phase) repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Cyclic OMP was associated with regular, shorter cycles (±SD) (28.2 ± 0.8 days). Comparison of cycles 1–6 showed decreased fluid retention (p = 0.001), breast tenderness (p = 0.002), and cervical mucus (p = 0.048); there were no changes in flow or anxiety. Fluid retention in the follicular phase also significantly decreased over time (F (1.2, 14.7) = 6.7, p = 0.017). Conclusions: Pilot daily Diary data suggest women with PCOS have improved everyday experiences on cyclic progesterone therapy. Larger prospective studies with more objective outcomes and randomized controlled trials of this innovative PCOS therapy are needed.
Dermoscopic Features of Lichen Amyloidosis in Caucasians—A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Żychowska Magdalena , Pięta Karolina , Rudy Izabela , Skubisz Aleksandra , Reich Adam
Published: September 2021

Primary cutaneous amyloidosis (PCA) is characterized by the extracellular deposition of amyloid in the skin without systemic involvement. It comprises several clinical variants, the most common of which are macular amyloidosis (MA) and lichen amyloidosis (LA). PCA is frequently observed in Asians, while it is considered to be very rare in Caucasians. In the latter population, the condition often poses a diagnostic challenge. Dermoscopy has already been proved to be a useful, non-invasive diagnostic tool in various non-neoplastic skin diseases. In the paper, we present three Caucasian patients (skin phototypes I–II) with histologically confirmed LA. Under dermoscopy, central white hubs with grayish-brown dots and globules were observed in all three cases. Vascular structures were present in two cases and had the morphology of red globules and thick, unfocused branching lines intersecting the white hubs. A comprehensive review of the literature retrieved twelve papers presenting the dermoscopic features of PCA, including five articles on the dermoscopy of LA. The vast majority of these studies have been conducted on the Asian population, and there is a lack of data on the dermoscopic findings for patients with skin type I or II. The literature review revealed that MA and LA share several dermoscopic similarities (the presence of a white central hub and grayish dots), but also display distinct features. Compared to the dermoscopic features of LA in darker skin phototypes, our patients presented less pronounced pigmentation and more evident vascular structures. Nevertheless, further studies are needed in order to reliably evaluate the dermoscopic features of PCA in various ethnicities.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Neurological Entity?
Authors: Murga Gandasegui Iñigo , Aranburu Laka Larraitz , Gargiulo Pascual-Ángel , Gómez-Esteban Juan-Carlos , Lafuente Sánchez José-Vicente
Published: September 2021

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a disorder of unknown physiopathology with multisystemic repercussions, framed in ICD-11 under the heading of neurology (8E49). There is no specific test to support its clinical diagnosis. Our objective is to review the evidence in neuroimaging and dysautonomia evaluation in order to support the neurological involvement and to find biomarkers serving to identify and/or monitor the pathology. The symptoms typically appear acutely, although they can develop progressively over years; an essential trait for diagnosis is “central” fatigue together with physical and/or mental exhaustion after a small effort. Neuroimaging reveals various morphological, connectivity, metabolic, and functional alterations of low specificity, which can serve to complement the neurological study of the patient. The COMPASS-31 questionnaire is a useful tool to triage patients under suspect of dysautonomia, at which point they may be redirected for deeper evaluation. Recently, alterations in heart rate variability, the Valsalva maneuver, and the tilt table test, together with the presence of serum autoantibodies against adrenergic, cholinergic, and serotonin receptors were shown in a subgroup of patients. This approach provides a way to identify patient phenotypes. Broader studies are needed to establish the level of sensitivity and specificity necessary for their validation. Neuroimaging contributes scarcely to the diagnosis, and this depends on the identification of specific changes. On the other hand, dysautonomia studies, carried out in specialized units, are highly promising in order to support the diagnosis and to identify potential biomarkers. ME/CFS orients towards a functional pathology that mainly involves the autonomic nervous system, although not exclusively.
Thermoplastic Forming of a Hydrophilic Surface with a Nanostructure Array on Zr-Cu-Ni-Al-Y Bulk Metallic Glass
Authors: Cheng Sirui , Ma Jiang , Gong Feng , Shen Jun
Published: September 2021

The poor thermoplastic formability of reactive Zr-based bulk metallic glass becomes the main limiting factor for replacing the noble-metal-based and Be-rich bulk metallic glasses in nanostructure fabrication. In our work, a (Zr50.7Cu28Ni9Al12.3)98.5Y1.5 bulk metallic glass with good thermoplastic formability has been developed by alloying, where Y addition enlarges the processing window and decreases the viscous resistance of supercooled liquid caused by the high free volume density. The prepared Zr-Cu-Ni-Al-Y bulk metallic glass nanostructure retains the amorphous characteristic and generates the complex oxidization products in the surface layer. The enhanced hydrophilicity of the as-embossed surface follows a Wenzel-impregnating wetting regime, and it can be attributed to the large roughness coefficient induced by the capillary effect. This study provides a low-cost and environmentally friendly bulk metallic glass system to manufacture the nanostructure with a broad prospect in the field of electrocatalysis.
Plasma Lipidomic Patterns in Patients with Symptomatic Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Lindner Jonathan R. , Davidson Brian P. , Song Zifeng , Maier Claudia S. , Minnier Jessica , Stevens Jan Frederick , Ferencik Maros , Taqui Sahar , Belcik J. Todd , Moccetti Federico , Layoun Michael , Spellman Paul , Turker Mitchell S. , Tavori Hagai , Fazio Sergio , Raber Jacob , Bobe Gerd
Published: September 2021

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (MVD) is a syndrome of abnormal regulation of vascular tone, particularly during increased metabolic demand. While there are several risk factors for MVD, some of which are similar to those for coronary artery disease (CAD), the cause of MVD is not understood. We hypothesized that MVD in symptomatic non-elderly subjects would be characterized by specific lipidomic profiles. Subjects (n = 20) aged 35–60 years and referred for computed tomography coronary angiography (CTA) for chest pain but who lacked obstructive CAD (>50% stenosis), underwent quantitative regadenoson stress-rest myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) perfusion imaging for MVD assessment. The presence of MVD defined by kinetic analysis of MCE data was correlated with lipidomic profiles in plasma measured by liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Nine of twenty subjects had evidence of MVD, defined by reduced hyperemic perfusion versus other subjects (beta-value 1.62 ± 0.44 vs. 2.63 ± 0.99 s−1, p = 0.009). Neither the presence of high-risk but non-obstructive CAD on CTA, nor CAD risk factors were different for those with versus without MVD. Lipidomic analysis revealed that patients with MVD had lower concentrations of long-carbon chain triacylglycerols and diacylglycerols, and higher concentrations of short-chain triacylglycerols. The diacylglycerol containing stearic and linoleic acid classified all participants correctly. We conclude that specific lipidomic plasma profiles occur in MVD involving saturated long-chain fatty acid-containing acylglycerols that are distinctly different from those in non-obstructive CAD. These patterns could be used to better characterize the pathobiology and potential treatments for this condition.
Intermediate Detection in the Casiopeina–Cysteine Interaction Ending in the Disulfide Bond Formation and Copper Reduction
Authors: Ramírez-Palma Lillian G. , Espinoza-Guillén Adrián , Nieto-Camacho Fabiola , López-Guerra Alexis E. , Gómez-Vidales Virginia , Cortés-Guzmán Fernando , Ruiz-Azuara Lena
Published: September 2021

A strategy to improve the cancer therapies involves agents that cause the depletion of the endogenous antioxidant glutathione (GSH), increasing its efflux out of cells and inducing apoptosis in tumoral cells due to the presence of reactive oxygen species. It has been shown that Casiopeina copper complexes caused a dramatic intracellular GSH drop, forming disulfide bonds and reducing CuII to CuI. Herein, through the determination of the [CuII]–SH bond before reduction, we present evidence of the adduct between cysteine and one Casiopeina as an intermediate in the cystine formation and as a model to understand the anticancer activity of copper complexes. Evidence of such an intermediate has never been presented before.
Effects of Fructose and Oligofructose Addition on Milk Fermentation Using Novel Lactobacillus Cultures to Obtain High-Quality Yogurt-like Products
Authors: Zielińska Dorota , Marciniak-Lukasiak Katarzyna , Karbowiak Marcelina , Lukasiak Piotr
Published: September 2021

The incorporation of prebiotics in fermented milk products is one of the best ways to promote health benefits while improving their sensory characteristics at the same time. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the addition of fructose and oligofructose (1% and 2%) on the physicochemical, rheological, sensory, and microbiological quality attributes of fermented milk products inoculated with indigenous probiotic starter cultures of Lactobacillus isolated from Polish traditional fermented foods. The samples were evaluated during 35 days of refrigerated storage. The oligofructose and fructose caused increases in the populations of bacteria in comparison to the control fermented milk products without the addition of saccharides. The degrees of acidification in different fermented milk samples, as well as their viscosity, firmness, syneresis, and color attributes, changed during storage. The highest overall sensory quality levels were observed for the samples supplemented with L. brevis B1 and oligofructose. This study is the first attempt to compare the influences of different sugar sources on the physicochemical, rheological, sensory, and microbiological quality attributes of fermented milk products.
Immunomodulatory Activity of Carboxymethyl Pachymaran on Immunosuppressed Mice Induced by Cyclophosphamide
Authors: Liu Feng , Zhang Lijia , Feng Xi , Ibrahim Salam A. , Huang Wen , Liu Ying
Published: September 2021

The effects of immunomodulatory activity of two types of carboxymethyl pachymaran (CMP-1 and CMP-2) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced mice were investigated. Both CMP-1 and CMP-2 were found to restore the splenomegaly and alleviate the spleen lesions and the mRNA expressions of TLR4, MyD88, p65 and NF-κB in spleen were also increased. CMP-1 and CMP-2 could enhance the immunity by increasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, Ig-A and Ig-G in serum. In addition, CMP-1 could increase the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and reduce the relative richness of Firmicutes at the phylum level. CMP-1 and CMP-2 could reduce the relative abundance Erysipelatoclostridum at the genus level. CMP-1 and CMP-2 might enhance the immune function of immunosuppression mice by regulating the gene expression in the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and changing the composition and abundance of the intestinal microbiota. The results suggested that CMP-1 and CMP-2 would be as potential immunomodulatory agents in functional foods.
New Series of Pyrazoles and Imidazo-Pyrazoles Targeting Different Cancer and Inflammation Pathways
Authors: Signorello Maria Grazia , Rapetti Federica , Meta Elda , Sidibè Adama , Bruno Olga , Brullo Chiara
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: different previously synthesized pyrazoles and imidazo-pyrazoles showed interesting anti-angiogenic action, being able to interfere with ERK1/2, AKT and p38MAPK phosphorylation in different manners and with different potency; (2) Methods: here, a new small compound library, endowed with the same differently decorated chemical scaffolds, has been synthetized to obtain new agents able to inhibit different pathways involved in inflammation, cancer and human platelet aggregation. (3) Results: most of the new synthesized derivatives resulted able to block ROS production, platelet aggregation and p38MAPK phosphorylation both in platelets and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial cells (HUVEC). This paves the way for the development of new agents with anti-angiogenic activity.
Hydrogenative Ring-Rearrangement of Furfural to Cyclopentanone over Pd/UiO-66-NO2 with Tunable Missing-Linker Defects
Authors: Wang Chunhua , Yu Zhiquan , Yang Yuhao , Sun Zhichao , Wang Yao , Shi Chuan , Liu Ying-Ya , Wang Anjie , Leus Karen , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: September 2021

Upgrading furfural (FAL) to cyclopentanone (CPO) is of great importance for the synthesis of high-value chemicals and biomass utilization. The hydrogenative ring-rearrangement of FAL is catalyzed by metal-acid bifunctional catalysts. The Lewis acidity is a key factor in promoting the rearrangement of furan rings and achieving a high selectivity to CPO. In this work, highly dispersed Pd nanoparticles were successfully encapsulated into the cavities of a Zr based MOF, UiO-66-NO2, by impregnation using a double-solvent method (DSM) followed by H2 reduction. The obtained Pd/UiO-66-NO2 catalyst showed a significantly better catalytic performance in the aforementioned reaction than the Pd/UiO-66 catalyst due to the higher Lewis acidity of the support. Moreover, by using a thermal treatment. The Lewis acidity can be further increased through the creating of missing-linker defects. The resulting defective Pd/UiO-66-NO2 exhibited the highest CPO selectivity and FAL conversion of 96.6% and 98.9%, respectively. In addition, the catalyst was able to maintain a high activity and stability after four consecutive runs. The current study not only provides an efficient catalytic reaction system for the hydrogenative ring-rearrangement of furfural to cyclopentanone but also emphasizes the importance of defect sites.
INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT DOSES OF TISSUE BIO-STIMULANT MADE FROM VELVET ANTLER DEER BY-PRODUCTS ON COW REPRODUCTIVE QUALITIES
Authors: ПУШКАРЕВ И.А.
Published: September 2021

Исследования проводились в Алтайском крае на коровах Приобского типа черно-пестрой породы. Было сформировано 4 группы коров 3 лактации, аналогов по живой массе (500 кг), в период сухостоя, по 10 голов в каждой. Молочная продуктивность по последней контрольной дойке перед запуском составляла в среднем 22,5 л. Тканевый биостимулятор вводили с интервалом 14 дней, четырехкратно в период сухостоя и четырехкратно в период раздоя. В I опытной группе доза тканевого биостимулятора составляла 15 мл/гол., во II — 22,5 мл/гол., в III — 30 мл/гол. Опытную партию тканевого биостимулятора изготовили из субпродуктов и боенских отходов пантовых оленей. Наиболее оптимальной дозой применения тканевого биостимулятора следует считать 22,5 мл/гол, она способствовала сокращению времени прихода коров в первую половую охоту после отела на 3,9%, повышению результативности осеменения до 30,0%, уменьшению сервис-периода на 17,5% (P≤0,05) и индекса осеменения на 32,0%.

The studies were conducted in in the herd of Black-Pied cows of the Priobskiy type. Four groups of 10 dry cows at the age of the 3rd lactation and comparable in live weight (500 kg) were formed. The milk yield at to the last control milking before drying-off averaged 22.5 liters. The tissue bio-stimulant was administered two weeks apart, four times during the dry period and four times during the first 100 days of lactation. The tissue bio-stimulant was administered in the following doses: in the 1st trial group — 15 mL per head; 2nd trial group — 22.5 mL per head; 3rd trial group - 30 mL per head. The trial batch of the tissue bio-stimulant was made from velvet antler deer by-products and slaughterhouse offal. The tissue bio-stimulant dose of 22.5 mL per head should be considered the most optimal one; it shortened time of coming in the first heat after calving by 3.9%, increased insemination effectiveness to 30.0%, shortened the service period by 17.5% (P≤0.05) and decreased the insemination index by 32.0%.
Aquatic Physical Therapy in the balance and gait of people with Parkinson’s Disease: a pilot study
Authors: Christinelli Taina , Ferreira Gabriella , Iucksch Dielise Debona , Siega Juliana , Da Silva Adriano Zanardi , Yamaguchi Bruna , Israel Vera Lúcia
Published: September 2021

Background. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative, chronic, progressive disease, resulting mainly from the depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. It is characterized by four cardinal signs, namely: bradykinesia, stiffness, tremor, and postural instability, which contribute to body balance and gait functional deficits. Among the possibilities of intervention, the Aquatic Physical Therapy (APT) stands out in the prevention and rehabilitation of motor and functional alterations, using water physical and thermal properties. Objective. To verify the effects of APT on body balance and gait. Method. This pilot study is part of quasi-experimental research involving a group with a clinical diagnosis of PD. They participated in an APT program for 12 weeks, twice a week. They were assessed with the Mini-BESTest for body balance and the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) for gait balance. The statistical analysis was made in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results. A total of 11 people – mean age of 70.73±3.2 years – participated in the study. After the APT program, no difference was verified in the Mini-BESTest (p=0.41) or the DGI (p=0.105). Conclusions. The APT program proposed was unable to present significant improvement regarding the balance and gait in the group of people with PD in question.
Validating a Computable Phenotype for Nephrotic Syndrome in Children and Adults Using PCORnet Data
Authors: Oliverio Andrea L. , Marchel Dorota , Troost Jonathan P. , Ayoub Isabelle , Almaani Salem , Greco Jessica , Tran Cheryl L. , Denburg Michelle R. , Matheny Michael , Dorn Chad , Massengill Susan F. , Desmond Hailey , Gipson Debbie S. , Mariani Laura H.
Published: September 2021

Key Points

A computable phenotype combines routinely collected data elements from the EHR with logic elements to identify a condition of interest.

This validated computable phenotype has strong classification characteristics to identify individuals with primary nephrotic syndrome.

This computable phenotype for primary nephrotic syndrome can facilitate future research of these rare diseases.

Background

Primary nephrotic syndromes are rare diseases which can impede adequate sample size for observational patient-oriented research and clinical trial enrollment. A computable phenotype may be powerful in identifying patients with these diseases for research across multiple institutions.

Methods

A comprehensive algorithm of inclusion and exclusion ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes to identify patients with primary nephrotic syndrome was developed. The algorithm was executed against the PCORnet CDM at three institutions from January 1, 2009 to January 1, 2018, where a random selection of 50 cases and 50 noncases (individuals not meeting case criteria seen within the same calendar year and within 5 years of age of a case) were reviewed by a nephrologist, for a total of 150 cases and 150 noncases reviewed. The classification accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, F1 score) of the computable phenotype was determined.

Results

The algorithm identified a total of 2708 patients with nephrotic syndrome from 4,305,092 distinct patients in the CDM at all sites from 2009 to 2018. For all sites, the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of the algorithm were 99% (95% CI, 97% to 99%), 79% (95% CI, 74% to 85%), and 0.9 (0.84 to 0.97), respectively. The most common causes of false positive classification were secondary FSGS (nine out of 39) and lupus nephritis (nine out of 39).

Conclusion

This computable phenotype had good classification in identifying both children and adults with primary nephrotic syndrome utilizing only ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes, which are available across institutions in the United States. This may facilitate future screening and enrollment for research studies and enable comparative effectiveness research. Further refinements to the algorithm including use of laboratory data or addition of natural language processing may help better distinguish primary and secondary causes of nephrotic syndrome.
Burhan Distribution with Structural Properties and Applications in Distinct Areas of Science
Authors: Ahmad Aijaz , Jallal Muzamil , Ain S. Quratul , Tripathi Rajnee
Published: September 2021

In this work a novel distribution has been explored referred as Burhan distribution. This distribution is obtained through convex combination of exponential and gamma distribution to analyse complex real-life data. The distinct structural properties of the formulated distribution have been derived and discussed. The behaviour of probability density function (pdf) and cumulative distribution function (cdf) are illustrated through different graphs. The estimation of the established distribution parameters are performed by maximum likelihood estimation method. Eventually the versatility of the established distribution is examined through two real life data sets.
EXTRACTION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS OF ASPEN AND WILLOW LEAVES OF THE SALICACEAE FAMILY
Authors: Arslanova G. , Prosvirnikov D. , Safin R.
Published: September 2021

The paper presents the results of studies on the extraction of phenolic compounds from the leaves of trees of the Salicaceae family, namely aspen and willow. A method for extracting phenolic compounds of salicin and quercetin by extraction using ethyl alcohol as a solvent is described. The method of identification of salicin and quercetin by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is described. Digital processing of the obtained results was carried out using the computer program “Sorbfil Visualizer” (Krasnodar). The optimal operating parameters of the process, allowing to obtain the highest yield of the desired substances, are determined. The maximum yield of quercetin in the amount of 1.4% a. s. v. was obtained from aspen leaves, and was achieved at the following extraction parameters: the concentration of the ethyl alcohol solution (extractant) – 60%, the extraction duration-30 min, the temperature of the extractant-50°C. The maximum yield of salicin from aspen leaves is 0.26% a. s. v. and is achieved at.
FEATURES OF ASPHALT COVERING DESIGNFOREST ROADS IN THE NORTHERNANDOFTHEPOLARURALS
Authors: Ahtyamov E. , Kruchinin Igor , Kruchinina E.
Published: September 2021

The main tasks of improving the crushed stone-mastic coatings of forest timber highways through the use of innovative road-building materials are considered. Such roads are characterized by the use of materials capable of meeting the basic requirements for transport and operational conditions in difficult natural and climatic conditions. The known road building materials are distinguished by the instability of their physical and mechanical properties. This causes significant difficulties both in the design and in the operation of forest timber roads made of these materials. Despite the complex of experimental studies carried out, the task of developing road coatings with adjustable performance properties remains unfulfilled. Thus, the developed method of designing the grain composition of crushed stone-mastic asphalt concrete pavements of forest roads, with new transport and operational parameters, taking into account the operating conditions, which determined the purpose of this work, will help to solve the problem. The aim of the research was to develop methods for creating crushed-night-mastic asphalt concrete pavements of forest timber roads, using a heat stabilizing additive from expanded vermiculite sand. In this work, the problem of assessing the degree of influence of the addition of sand from expanded vermiculite on the quality indicators of crushed stone-mastic asphalt concrete coatings of forest timber roads was solved. The results of the work were the creation of a formulation of crushed stone-mastic asphalt concrete with a heat-stabilizing additive from expanded vermulite of fraction from 0.5 to 1.0 mm. Taking into account the sufficient adequacy of experimental research, the results of the selection of the mixture can be recommended for use in the practice of building forest timber roads for I and II road-climatic zones.
FEATURES OF THE FORMATION OF THE SEDIMENT OF FLAT RAFT UNITS WITH FULL AND PARTIAL WRAPPING IN FLEXIBLE WATERPROOF MATERIAL
Authors: Vasiliev V.
Published: September 2021

The main dependences for determining the coefficient of buoyancy reserve and the draft of flat flat units with an increased and stabilized buoyancy reserve are given. These dependences show that for flat flattened units completely wrapped in a flexible waterproof material, when they are on the water, the draft and buoyancy reserve coefficient do not change over time. In turn, for flat raft units partially wrapped in a flexible waterproof material, when they are in the water over time, the buoyancy factor decreases, and their draft increases.