bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Biobased Substances in the Synthesis of Nanostructured Magnetic Core-Shell Materials
Authors: Peralta Marcos E. , Koffman-Frischknecht Alejandro , Moreno M. Sergio , Mártire Daniel O. , Carlos Luciano
Published: January 2023

We propose here a novel green synthesis route of core-shell magnetic nanomaterials based on the polyol method, which uses bio-based substances (BBS) derived from biowaste, as stabilizer and directing agent. First, we studied the effect of BBS concentration on the size, morphology, and composition of magnetic iron oxides nanoparticles obtained in the presence of BBS via the polyol synthesis method (MBBS). Then, as a proof of concept, we further coated MBBS with mesoporous silica (MBBS@mSiO2) or titanium dioxide (MBBS@TiO2) to obtain magnetic nanostructured core-shell materials. All the materials were deeply characterized with diverse physicochemical techniques. Results showed that both the size of the nanocrystals and their aggregation strongly depend on the BBS concentration used in the synthesis: the higher the concentration of BBS, the smaller the sizes of the iron oxide nanoparticles. On the other hand, the as-prepared magnetic core-shell nanomaterials were applied with good performance in different systems. In particular, MBBS@SiO2 showed to be an excellent nanocarrier of ibuprofen and successful adsorbent of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution. MBBS@TiO2 was capable of degrading MB with the same efficiency of pristine TiO2. These excellent results encourage the use of bio-based substances in different types of synthesis methods since they could reduce the fabrication costs and the environmental impact.
Suitability of Raycell MK2 Blood X-ray Irradiator for the Use in the Sterile Insect Technique: Dose Response in Fruit Flies, Tsetse Flies and Mosquitoes
Authors: Yamada Hanano , Kaboré Bénéwendé Aristide , Bimbilé Somda Nanwintoum Séverin , Ntoyi Nonhlanhla L. , de Beer Chantel Janet , Bouyer Jérémy , Caceres Carlos , Mach Robert L. , Gómez-Simuta Yeudiel
Published: January 2023

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is based on the inundatory field release of a target pest following their reproductive sterilization via exposure to radiation. Until recently, gamma irradiation from isotopic sources has been the most widely used in SIT programs. As isotopic sources are becoming increasingly expensive, especially for small programs, and regulations surrounding their procurement and shipment increasingly strict, irradiation capacity is one of the limiting factors in smaller or newly developing SIT projects. For this reason, the possibility of using X-ray irradiators has been evaluated in the recent decade. The availability of “off-the-shelf” blood X-ray irradiators that meet the technical requirements for insect irradiation can provide irradiation capacity for those SIT projects in which the acquisition of gamma ray irradiators is not feasible. Following the recent technical characterization of a Raycell MK2 X-ray blood irradiator, it was found in this study, that MK2 instruments were suitable for the sterilization of fruit flies, tsetse flies and mosquitoes, inducing comparable, even slightly higher, sterility levels compared to those achieved by gamma ray irradiation. This, together with its estimated processing efficiency, shows that MK2 irradiators are suitable for small- to mid-sized SIT programs.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of J in 2022
Authors:   J Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Advances in PET/CT Imaging for Breast Cancer Patients and Beyond
Authors: Khalil David , Lotfalla Andrew , Girard Antoine , Ha Richard , Dercle Laurent , Seban Romain-David
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women around the world and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death [...]
A Review: Integrative Perspectives on the Features and Clinical Management of Psychotic Episodes in Pregnancy
Authors: Ortega Miguel A. , Pekarek Tatiana , Fraile-Martinez Oscar , García-Montero Cielo , Pekarek Leonel , Rodriguez-Martín Sonia , Funes Moñux Rosa M. , Bravo Coral , De León-Luis Juan A. , Lahera Guillermo , Monserrat Jorge , Quintero Javier , Bujan Julia , García-Honduvilla Natalio , Álvarez-Mon Melchor , Alvarez-Mon Miguel Angel
Published: January 2023

Psychotic episodes represent one of the most complex manifestations of various mental illnesses, and these encompass a wide variety of clinical manifestations that together lead to high morbidity in the general population. Various mental illnesses are associated with psychotic episodes; in addition, although their incidence and prevalence rates have been widely described in the general population, their correct identification and treatment is a challenge for health professionals in relation to pregnancy. In pregnant women, psychotic episodes can be the consequence of the manifestation of a previous psychiatric illness or may begin during the pregnancy itself, placing not only the mother, but also the fetus at risk during the psychotic episode. In addition, we cannot forget that both pharmacological and nonpharmacological management are complex given the different teratogenic effects of various neuroleptic drugs or mood stabilizers; moreover, the recommendation is that patients should be followed together with different specialists to maintain close contact during puerperium given the high incidence of recurrence of psychotic episodes. In addition, we cannot forget that a large portion of these patients for whom the onset times of such episodes are during pregnancy have a greater probability of an unpredictable psychiatric illness that requires a postpartum follow up, in addition to the postpartum psychotic episodes, at some point in their lives. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize the epidemiology of psychotic breaks during pregnancy related to the main mental illnesses that affect this population and to summarize the main pharmacological treatments available for their clinical management.
Autoantibodies and Clinical Correlations in Polish Systemic Sclerosis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Żebryk Paweł , Przymuszała Piotr , Nowak Jan Krzysztof , Piorunek Tomasz , Mularek-Kubzdela Tatiana , Puszczewicz Mariusz
Published: January 2023

We evaluated the prevalence of systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related autoantibodies and their clinical significance and compared the sensitivity of two line immunoblot assays on a prospective study group of 96 Polish SSc patients (ACR-EULAR 2013 criteria) whose sera were assessed by indirect immunofluorescence (HEp-2 and monkey liver) and line immunoblot assays: ANA Profile 3 and Systemic Sclerosis Profile by EUROIMMUN (Lübeck, Germany). Organ involvement was evaluated according to the EUSTAR Minimal Essential Data Set. The following autoantibodies’ prevalence was found: Scl-70 (36%), Ro-52 (28%), CENP-B (22%), CENP-A (20%), PM-Scl-75 (20%), PM-Scl-100 (14%), fibrillarin (7%), Th/To (7%), RNA polymerase III 11 kDa (5%), RNA polymerase III 155 kDa (3%), PDGFR (3%), NOR-90 (2%), and Ku (1%). Significant associations between the autoantibodies’ presence and organ involvement were found: ATA (dcSSc > lcSSc, less prevalent muscle weakness), Ro-52 (gangrene, DLCO < 60), CENP-B and A (lcSSc > dcSSc, normal CK), CENP-B (rarer digital ulcers and joint contractures), PM-Scl-100 and 75 (PM/SSc overlap, CK increase, muscle weakness, muscle atrophy), PM-Scl-100 (dcSSc unlikely), PM-Scl-75 (lung fibrosis), fibrillarin (muscle atrophy, proteinuria, conduction blocks, palpitations), Th/To (proteinuria, arthritis, muscle weakness, and rarer esophageal symptoms), RNA Polymerase III 11 kDa (arterial hypertension, renal crisis), RNA polymerase III 155 kDa (renal crisis), and PDGFR (dcSSc, tendon friction rubs). Additionally, the Systemic Sclerosis Profile was significantly more sensitive in detecting SSc-related autoantibodies than ANA Profile 3 (p = 0.002). In conclusion, individual autoantibodies associated with specific characteristics of SSc.
Safety and Efficacy of Rapid Primary Phacoemulsification on Acute Primary Angle Closure with and without Preoperative IOP-Lowering Medication
Authors: Suzuki Takafumi , Fujishiro Takashi , Tachi Naoko , Ueta Yoshiki , Fukutome Takao , Okamoto Yasuhiro , Sasajima Hirofumi , Aihara Makoto
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of rapid primary phacoemulsification in patients with acute primary angle closure (APAC) (n = 41), with or without preoperative IOP-lowering medication. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), number of corneal endothelial cells (CECs), and number of IOP-lowering medications at the preoperative examination (Pre), postoperative day 1 (1d), week 1 (1w), and month 1 (1m) were used as indicators and compared. BCVA significantly improved at 1d, 1w, and 1m compared with Pre (p < 0.05) and significantly improved at 1m compared to 1d (p < 0.05) for all eyes. IOP significantly decreased at 1d, 1w, and 1m compared with Pre (p < 0.05). CECs were not significantly different between Pre and 1m; the number of IOP-lowering medications decreased significantly from Pre to 1m (p < 0.05). BCVA and IOP were not significantly different between the two groups for all periods. CECs were not significantly different between the two groups at Pre and 1m. Rapid primary phacoemulsification improved visual acuity due to improvement of corneal edema without central visual field defects and good IOP control without reoperation or IOP-lowering medication and maintained the number of corneal endothelial cells with or without preoperative IOP-lowering medication in patients with APAC.
Association between Experimental Pain Measurements and the Central Sensitization Inventory in Patients at Least 3 Months after COVID-19 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Goudman Lisa , De Smedt Ann , Roggeman Stijn , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Hatem Samar M. , Schiltz Marc , Billot Maxime , Roulaud Manuel , Rigoard Philippe , Moens Maarten
Published: January 2023

Fatigue, pain, headache, brain fog, anosmia, ageusia, mood symptoms, and sleep disorders are symptoms commonly experienced by people with post-COVID-19 condition. These symptoms could be considered as manifestations of central sensitization. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether there are indicators of central sensitization by using experimental pain measurements and to determine their association with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). A cross-sectional study including 42 patients after COVID-19 infection was conducted. The central sensitization inventory (CSI) was administered as a PROM to evaluate central-sensitization-associated symptoms. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT), temporal summation, and descending nociceptive pain inhibition (CPM) were assessed as experimental pain measurements. The median score on the CSI was 46.5 (Q1–Q3: 33–54). The presence of central-sensitization-associated symptoms was seen in 64.3% of patients based on the CSI (≥40/100 points). A deficient CPM was seen in 12% and 14% of patients when measured at the trapezius and rectus femoris, respectively. A negative correlation between pressure sensitivity on the rectus femoris and the CSI score (r = −0.36, 95%CI −0.13 to −0.65, p = 0.007) was observed. Central-sensitization-associated symptoms were present in up to 64.3% of patients post-COVID-19 infection, based on a PROM, i.e., the CSI. A more objective evaluation of nociceptive processing through experimental pain measurements was less suggestive of indicators of central sensitization. Only a small negative correlation between pressure sensitivity and the CSI was observed, thereby pointing towards the discrepancy between the CSI and experimental pain measurements and presumably the complementary need for both to evaluate potential indicators of central sensitization in this population.
Long-Term Safety of Growth Hormone Deficiency Treatment in Cancer and Sellar Tumors Adult Survivors: Is There a Role of GH Therapy on the Neoplastic Risk?
Authors: Di Somma Carolina , Scarano Elisabetta , Arianna Rossana , Romano Fiammetta , Lavorgna Mariarosaria , Serpico Domenico , Colao Annamaria
Published: January 2023

Experimental studies support the hypothesis that GH/IGF-1 status may influence neoplastic tissue growth. Epidemiological studies suggest a link between GH/IGF-1 status and cancer risk. However, several studies regarding GH replacement safety in childhood cancer survivors do not show a prevalence excess of de novo cancers, and several reports on children and adults treated with GH have not shown an increase in observed cancer risk in these patients. The aim of this review is to provide an at-a-glance overview and the state of the art of long-term effects of GH replacement on neoplastic risk in adults with growth hormone deficiency who have survived cancer and sellar tumors.
Adiponectin, Leptin and Resistin in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Słuczanowska-Głabowska Sylwia , Staniszewska Marzena , Marchlewicz Mariola , Duchnik Ewa , Łuczkowska Karolina , Safranow Krzysztof , Machaliński Bogusław , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: January 2023

Psoriasis is a common chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterised by keratinocyte hyperproliferation, parakeratosis, and T-cell infiltration. Adipose tissue has an endocrine function, producing an abundance of cytokines and adipokines. It has also been described that the major adipokines, leptin, resistin, and adiponectin, may be involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The aim of the study was to examine the plasma levels of adiponectin, leptin, and resistin in patients with psoriasis and their correlations with disease activity parameters: Psoriasis Activity Severity Index (PASI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and Body Surface Area (BSA) index, as well as selected clinical parameters. The study included 53 patients with the plaque type and 31 healthy controls. The plasma concentrations of adiponectin were significantly lower in patients with psoriasis (p < 0.001) than in the control group. The plasma concentrations of leptin were higher in patients with psoriasis, however, due to high intra-patient variability of leptin plasma concentrations these differences did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.2). The plasma concentrations of resistin were significantly increased in patients with psoriasis compared to healthy controls (p = 0.02). There were no statistically significant correlations between adiponectin and leptin plasma concentrations and values of PASI, DLQI, and BSA. The resistin plasma concentrations correlated significantly with DLQI values. Additionally, we examined the correlations between adiponectin, leptin, and resistin plasma concentrations, and selected clinical parameters. Plasma concentrations of adiponectin correlated significantly with CRP values and ALT values. Leptin plasma concentrations correlated significantly with creatinine values. The results of our study confirm the role of adiponectin, leptin, and resistin in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Review of the Use of Animal Models of Human Polycystic Kidney Disease for the Evaluation of Experimental Therapeutic Modalities
Authors: Nagao Shizuko , Yamaguchi Tamio
Published: January 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, and nephronophthisis are hereditary disorders with the occurrence of numerous cysts in both kidneys, often causing chronic and end-stage renal failure. Animal models have played an important role in recent advances in research not only on disease onset and progressive mechanisms but also on the development of therapeutic interventions. For a long time, spontaneous animal models have been used as the primary focus for human diseases; however, after the identification of the nucleotide sequence of the responsible genes, PKD1, PKD2, PKHD1, and NPHPs, various types of genetically modified models were developed by genetic and reproductive engineering techniques and played the leading role in the research field. In this review, we present murine models of hereditary renal cystic diseases, discussing their potential benefits in the development of therapeutic strategies.
What Does Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Change in Embryonic Development? The Spermatozoon Contribution
Authors: Chamayou Sandrine , Giacone Filippo , Cannarella Rossella , Guglielmino Antonino
Published: January 2023

The intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) technique was invented to solve severe male infertility due to altered sperm parameters. Nowadays, it is applied worldwide for the treatment of couple infertility. ICSI is performed with any available spermatozoon from surgery or ejaculated samples, whatever are the sperm motility, morphology or quantity. The aim of the present review was to study if embryo development and kinetics would be modified by (1) ICSI under the technical aspects, (2) the micro-injected spermatozoa in connection with male infertility. From published data, it can be seen that ICSI anticipates the zygote kinetics Furthermore, because fertilization rate is higher in ICSI compared to conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF), more blastocysts are obtained for clinical use in ICSI. Sperm and spermatozoa characteristics, such as sperm parameters, morphology and vitality, DNA content (levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, microdeletions, and chromosomal abnormalities), RNA content, epigenetics, and sperm recovery site (testicular, epididymis, and ejaculated), have an impact on fertilization and blastocyst rates and embryo kinetics in different ways. Even though ICSI is the most common solution to solve couples’ infertility, the causes of male infertility are crucial in building a competent spermatozoa that will contribute to normal embryonic development and healthy offspring.
Uses of Polypodium leucotomos Extract in Oncodermatology
Authors: Calzari Paolo , Vaienti Silvia , Nazzaro Gianluca
Published: January 2023

The effects of UV radiation on the skin and its damage mechanisms are well known. New modalities of exogenous photoprotection have been studied. It was demonstrated that Polypodium leucotomos extract acts as an antioxidant, photoprotectant, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulator. It is effective when taken orally and/or applied topically to support the prevention of skin cancers. It also has an important role in preventing photoaging. This review aims to report the mechanisms through which Polypodium leucotomos acts and to analyze its uses in oncodermatology with references to in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, alternative uses in non-neoplastic diseases, such as pigmentary disorders, photosensitivity, and atopic dermatitis, have been considered.
Optimizing Screening for Early Disease Detection in Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis (FLORIS): A Prospective Cohort Study Design
Authors: Maus Martijn T. K. , Groen Karlijn , van der Vis Joanne J. , Grutters Jan C. , van Moorsel Coline H. M.
Published: January 2023

Background: Familial pulmonary fibrosis (FPF) can be defined as pulmonary fibrosis in two or more first-degree family members. The first-degree family members of FPF patients are at high risk of developing FPF and are eligible for screening. Reproducible studies investigating risk factors for disease are much needed. Methods: Description of the screening study protocol for a single-center, prospective cohort study; the study will include 200 asymptomatic, first-degree family members of patients with FPF who will undergo three study visits in two years. The primary objective is determining the diagnostic value of parameters for detection of early FPF; the secondary objectives are determining the optimal timing of the screening interval and gaining insight into the natural history of early FPF. The presence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) changes on high-resolution computed tomography of the chest is indicative of preclinical ILD; the changes are determined at baseline. The comparison between the group with and without ILD changes is made for clinical parameters (pulmonary function, presence of digital clubbing, presence of Velcro-like crackles, blood count, liver- and kidney-function testing, patient-reported cough and dyspnea score) and exploratory parameters. Discussion: This study will be the first large-size, prospective, longitudinal cohort study for yearly screening of asymptomatic family members of FPF patients investigating the diagnostic value of parameters, including lung function, to detect early FPF. More effective screening strategies could advance early disease detection.
Validation of the Prognostic Role for Surgical Treatment in Stage II Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A SEER Population-Based Study
Authors: Luo Shuaiwu , Wu Linquan , Li Min , Wang Jiakun , Wang Cong , Yang Jun , Zhang Ligan , Ge Jin , Sun Chi , Li Enliang , Lei Jun , Zhou Fan , Liao Wenjun
Published: January 2023

Background: This study aimed to determine the role of surgical treatment in patients with stage II intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). Methods: Data were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We divided stage II iCCAs into solitary tumors with vascular invasion (T2sN0M0) and multiple tumors with/without vascular invasion (T2mN0M0) according to the criteria of AJCC v.8. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to evaluate differences in overall survival (OS). We performed two propensity score-matching analyses with (PSM2) or without (PSM1) surgical treatment. Results: 667 and 778 iCCA patients with stage II and IIIB were recruited. After PSM2, there was no survival difference in stage II iCCA patients in hypothetical conditions with similar surgical proportions (p = 0.079). However, OS was significantly worse in patients with T2mN0M0 than T2sN0M0 when the actual surgical proportion existed after PSM1 (p < 0.001). OS was similar between T2mN0M0 and IIIB regardless of whether PSM1 (p = 0.907) or PSM2 (p = 0.699) was performed. The surgical treatment was verified to associate with prognosis. Conclusions: The survival benefit by surgical treatment was existed in Stage II but not in Stage IIIB iCCA patients. The OS for T2mN0M0 will approach that of T2sN0M0 if the surgical proportion is gradually increased.
Following Evidence-Based Recommendations for Perioperative Pain Management after Cesarean Section Is Associated with Better Pain-Related Outcomes: Analysis of Registry Data
Authors: Zaslansky Ruth , Baumbach Philipp , Edry Ruth , Chetty Sean , Min Lim Siu , Schaub Isabelle , Cruz Jorge Jimenez , Meissner Winfried , Stamer Ulrike M.
Published: January 2023

Women who have had a Cesarean Section (CS) frequently report severe pain and pain-related interference. One reason for insufficient pain treatment might be inconsistent implementation of evidence-based guidelines. We assessed the association between implementing three elements of care recommended by guidelines for postoperative pain management and pain-related patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in women after CS. The analysis relied on an anonymized dataset of women undergoing CS, retrieved from PAIN OUT. PAIN OUT, an international perioperative pain registry, provides clinicians with treatment assessment methodology and tools for patients to assess multi-dimensional pain-related PROs on the first postoperative day. We examined whether the care included [i] regional anesthesia with a neuraxial opioid OR general anesthesia with wound infiltration or a Transvesus Abdominis Plane block; [ii] at least one non-opioid analgesic at the full daily dose; and [iii] pain assessment and recording. Credit for care was given only if all three elements were administered (= “full”); otherwise, it was “incomplete”. A “Pain Composite Score-total” (PCStotal), evaluating outcomes of pain intensity, pain-related interference with function, and side-effects, was the primary endpoint in the total cohort (women receiving GA and/or RA) or a sub-group of women with RA only. Data from 5182 women was analyzed. “Full” care was administered to 20% of women in the total cohort and to 21% in the RA sub-group. In both groups, the PCStotal was significantly lower compared to “incomplete” care (p < 0.001); this was a small-to-moderate effect size. Administering all three elements of care was associated with better pain-related outcomes after CS. These should be straightforward and inexpensive for integration into routine care after CS. However, even in this group, a high proportion of women reported poor outcomes, indicating that additional work needs to be carried out to close the evidence-practice gap so that women who have undergone CS can be comfortable when caring for themselves and their newborn.
Psychiatric Comorbidities in Children and Adolescents with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Study on Prevalence, Distribution and Clinical Features in an Italian Sample
Authors: Fucà Elisa , Guerrera Silvia , Valeri Giovanni , Casula Laura , Novello Roberta Lucia , Menghini Deny , Vicari Stefano
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of psychiatric comorbidities in a group of 472 children and adolescents with ASD aged 3–18 years. We examined differences in age, sex, IQ, adaptive skills, and ASD symptom severity by comparing participants with ASD (ASD group) with participants with ASD and a psychiatric disorder (ASD/PSY group). Overall, 32.2% of participants had a comorbid psychiatric condition. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was the most frequent diagnosis among preschoolers (20.4%); among school-age children, ADHD and anxiety/obsessive-compulsive disorders were the most frequent conditions (21% and 10.6%, respectively); finally, adolescents exhibit higher prevalence of anxiety/obsessive-compulsive disorders (21.8%). The ASD/PSY group showed a higher percentage of males, they were older and showed lower adaptive skills than the group with ASD; moreover, their mothers exhibited higher stress levels than mothers of participants in the ASD group. The comparison between age groups in participants within ASD/PSY group revealed that preschoolers had lower IQ than school-age children and adolescents, and worse adaptive skills, more repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests than adolescents. This study highlights the importance of an accurate diagnosis of psychiatric comorbidities in children and adolescents with ASD, also considering individual and family impairment.
Compliance to Multidisciplinary Lifestyle Intervention Decreases Blood Pressure in Patients with Resistant Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Espinel Eugenia , Azancot María Antonia , Gomez Alba , Beneria Anna , Caraben Anna , Andurell Laura , Delgado Pilar , Castañé Helena , Joven Jorge , Seron Daniel
Published: January 2023

Hypertension is a common chronic medical condition. Treatment is not satisfactory in a significant proportion of patients with primary hypertension, despite the concurrent use of three or more medications with different mechanisms of action. Such treatment-resistant hypertension is a clinical challenge associated with poor prognosis and needs further investigation. The efficacy of lifestyle changes has not been established yet in patients with resistant hypertension, and educational efforts appear clinically irrelevant in patients who must achieve behavioral changes without supervision. A 6-month multidisciplinary pilot intervention enrolled 50 patients with established resistant hypertension. The aims were: (1) to examine whether intensive and supervised lifestyle changes contribute to decreasing blood pressure in this condition, and (2) to identify which components affect compliance and feasibility. The program provided intensive changes in nutrition, physical exercise, and control of sleep disturbances supervised by nutritionists, physiotherapists, and psychologists. Nurses and pharmacists followed up on adherence to the antihypertensive medication. The primary outcome was 24 h blood pressure control. Data in patients with full compliance (n = 30) indicate that lifestyle modifications in resistant hypertension significantly reduced 24 h both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.01), body mass index (p < 0.01), medication burden (p = 0.04), improving physical fitness, and cardiovascular risk markers such as heart rate (p = 0.01) and augmentation index (p = 0.02). The adherence to the intervention was moderate, with an attrition rate of 12%. A modified version reducing visits and explorations will likely improve compliance and can be used to assess the long-term maintenance of these benefits in managing resistant hypertension by diverse healthcare providers.
Early Predictors of Disability and Cognition in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Long-Term Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Virgilio Eleonora , Vecchio Domizia , Sarnelli Maria Francesca , Solara Valentina , Cantello Roberto , Comi Cristoforo
Published: January 2023

We conducted a retrospective analysis on multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with perceived cognitive decline and long disease duration to investigate early predictors of future cognitive impairment (CI) and motor disability. Sixty-five patients complaining of cognitive decline were assessed with an extensive neuropsychological battery at the last clinical follow-up and classified as mildly impaired, severely impaired, and cognitively spared based on the results. Motor disability was assessed with EDSS, MSSS, and ARMSS. Baseline demographic, clinical, and imaging parameters were retrospectively collected and inserted in separate multivariate regression models to investigate the predictive power of future impairment. Twenty-one patients (32.3%) showed no CI, seventeen (26.2%) showed mild CI, and twenty-seven (41.5%) showed severe CI. Older and less educated patients with higher EDSS, longer disease duration, and higher white matter lesion load (WMLL) at diagnosis (particularly with cerebellar involvement) were more likely to develop CI after a mean follow-up from diagnosis of 16.5 ± 6.9 years. DMT exposure was protective. The multivariate regression analyses confirmed WMLL, disease duration, and educational levels as the parameters with significant predictive value for future CI (R2 adjusted: 0.338 p: 0.001). Older patients with progressive phenotype both at diagnosis and T1 were more likely to be not fully ambulatory at T1 (R2 adjusted: 0.796 p: 0.0001). Our results further expand knowledge on early predictors of cognitive decline and evolution over time.
Electrophysiologic Patterns of Symptomatic Vincristine-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Children with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Jeong Jae-Gyeong , Ahn Chang-Hwan , Min Yu-Sun , Kim Sung Eun , Kim Ji Yoon , Jung Tae-Du
Published: January 2023

Acute lymphocytic leukemia is one of the most common cancers in children. Multi-drug chemotherapy is used for treatment, and the representative drug is vincristine. Although various side effects may occur due to vincristine, the association with peripheral neuropathy is high compared to that of other drugs. This study focused on children under the age of 18 years of age with ALL who received chemotherapy containing vincristine. We retrospectively analyzed the results of a nerve conduction study and a cumulative dose of vincristine in 30 children diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. The average cumulative dose until diagnosis of vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy was 14.99 ± 1.21 mg/m2, and motor nerves were predominantly involved. Additionally, a marked decrease in average amplitude was also observed in motor nerves. In addition, when the relationship between the incidence of peripheral neuropathy and the cumulative dose was analyzed through the survival curve, about 50% of children developed peripheral neuropathy at a dose of 15.5 ± 1.77 mg/m2. Based on the electrophysiological characteristics of pediatric vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy, as well as the relationship between the incidence rate and the cumulative dose, it is possible to observe more closely the vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy occurrence in children with ALL at an appropriate time.
Chronic Urticaria—Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, Therapy and Influence of Coexisting Angioedema
Authors: Pluta-Kubicz Marzena , Brzoza Zenon
Published: January 2023

Urticaria is one of the most frequent dermatological diseases and it usually occurs in paroxysmal, recurrent form [...]
Insomnia, Daytime Sleepiness, and Quality of Life among 20,139 College Students in 60 Countries around the World—A 2016–2021 Study
Authors: Babicki Mateusz , Piotrowski Patryk , Mastalerz-Migas Agnieszka
Published: January 2023

Background: Sleep disorders are a widespread phenomenon, and the number of individuals suffering from them is increasing every year, especially among young adults. Currently, the literature lacks studies that cover both countries with different levels of development and a period before the announcement of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aims to globally assess the prevalence of insomnia and daytime sleepiness among students and assess their quality of life. Methods: For this purpose, our own questionnaire was distributed online via Facebook.com. In addition to the questions that assessed socioeconomic status, the survey included psychometric tools, such as the Athens insomnia scale (AIS), the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), and the Manchester short assessment of the quality of life (MANSA). The survey distribution period covered 31 January 2016 to 30 April 2021. Results: The survey involved 20,139 students from 60 countries around the world. The vast majority of the students were women (78.2%) and also those residing in countries with very high levels of development and/or high GDP (gross domestic product) per capita at 90.4% and 87.9%, respectively. More than half (50.6%) of the respondents (10,187) took the survey before the COVID-19 pandemic was announced. In the group analyzed, 11,597 (57.6%) students obtained a score indicative of insomnia and 5442 (27.0%) a score indicative of daytime sleepiness. Women, low-income residents, and nonmedical students were significantly more likely to have scores indicating the presence of insomnia. Individuals experiencing both sleepiness (B = −3.142; p < 0.001) and daytime sleepiness (B = −1.331; p < 0.001) rated their quality of life significantly lower. Conclusions: Insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness are common conditions among students worldwide and are closely related. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered students’ diurnal rhythms, which contributed to an increase in insomnia. Students in countries with a high GDP per capita index are significantly less likely to develop insomnia compared to the residents of countries with a low GDP per capita index. Sleep disorders definitely reduce the quality of life of students.
Fibula Nail versus Locking Plate Fixation—A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Kohler Felix Christian , Schenk Philipp , Nies Theresa , Hallbauer Jakob , Hofmann Gunther Olaf , Biedermann Uta , Kielstein Heike , Wildemann Britt , Ramm Roland , Ullrich Bernhard Wilhelm
Published: January 2023

In the treatment of ankle fractures, complications such as wound healing problems following open reduction and internal fixation are a major problem. An innovative alternative to this procedure offers a more minimally invasive nail stabilization. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to clarify whether this method was biomechanically comparable to the established method. First, the stability (range of motion, diastasis) and rotational stiffness of the native upper ankle were evaluated in eight pairs of native geriatric specimens. Subsequently, an unstable ankle fracture was created and fixed with a locking plate or a nail in a pairwise manner. The ankles showed significantly less stability and rotational stiffness properties after nail and plate fixations than the corresponding native ankles (p < 0.001 for all parameters). When comparing the two methods, both showed no differences in their range of motion (p = 0.694) and diastasis (p = 0.166). The nail also presented significantly greater rotational stiffness compared to the plate (p = 0.001). However, both fixations remained behind the native stability and rotational stiffness. Due to the comparable biomechanical properties of the nail and plate fixations, an early weight-bearing following nail fixation should be assessed on a case-by-case basis considering the severity of fractures.
Survival Outcomes of Hepatectomy in Gastric Cancer Liver Metastasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Conde Monroy Danny , Ibañez-Pinilla Milciades , Sabogal Juan Carlos , Rey Chaves Carlos , Isaza-Restrepo Andrés , Girón Felipe , Vanegas Marco , Ibañez-Villalba Rafael , Mirow Lutz , Siepmann Timo
Published: January 2023

Gastric cancer liver metastasis (GCLM) is a contraindication for surgical treatment in current guidelines. However, the results of recent studies are questioning this paradigm. We assessed survival outcomes and their predictors following hepatectomy for GCLM in a systematic review of studies published from 2000 to 2022 according to PRISMA guidelines. We identified 42,160 references in four databases. Of these, 55 articles providing data from 1990 patients fulfilled our criteria and were included. We performed a meta-analysis using random-effects models to assess overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) at one, three, and five years post-surgery. We studied the impact of potential prognostic factors on survival outcomes via meta-regression. One, three, and five years after surgery, OS was 69.79%, 34.79%, and 24.68%, whereas DFS was 41.39%, 23.23%, and 20.18%, respectively. Metachronous presentation, well-to-moderate differentiation, small hepatic tumoral size, early nodal stage, R0 resection, unilobar compromisation, and solitary lesions were associated with higher overall survival. Metachronous presentation, smaller primary tumoral size, and solitary metastasis were linked to longer DFS. The results of our meta-analysis suggest that hepatectomy leads to favorable survival outcomes in patients with GCLM and provides data that might help select patients who will benefit most from surgical treatment.
Risk Factors for Early Mortality in Older Patients with Traumatic Cervical Spine Injuries—A Multicenter Retrospective Study of 1512 Cases
Authors: Kobayashi Motoya , Yokogawa Noriaki , Kato Satoshi , Sasagawa Takeshi , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Nakashima Hiroaki , Segi Naoki , Ito Sadayuki , Funayama Toru , Eto Fumihiko , Yamaji Akihiro , Yamane Junichi , Nori Satoshi , Furuya Takeo , Yunde Atsushi , Nakajima Hideaki , Yamada Tomohiro , Hasegawa Tomohiko , Terashima Yoshinori , Hirota Ryosuke , Suzuki Hidenori , Imajo Yasuaki , Ikegami Shota , Uehara Masashi , Tonomura Hitoshi , Sakata Munehiro , Hashimoto Ko , Onoda Yoshito , Kawaguchi Kenichi , Haruta Yohei , Suzuki Nobuyuki , Kato Kenji , Uei Hiroshi , Sawada Hirokatsu , Nakanishi Kazuo , Misaki Kosuke , Terai Hidetomi , Tamai Koji , Kuroda Akiyoshi , Inoue Gen , Kakutani Kenichiro , Kakiuchi Yuji , Kiyasu Katsuhito , Tominaga Hiroyuki , Tokumoto Hiroto , Iizuka Yoichi , Takasawa Eiji , Akeda Koji , Takegami Norihiko , Funao Haruki , Oshima Yasushi , Kaito Takashi , Sakai Daisuke , Yoshii Toshitaka , Ohba Tetsuro , Otsuki Bungo , Seki Shoji , Miyazaki Masashi , Ishihara Masayuki , Okada Seiji , Imagama Shiro , Watanabe Kota
Published: January 2023

For older patients with decreased reserve function, traumatic cervical spine injuries frequently lead to early mortality. However, the prognostic factors for early mortality remain unclear. This study included patients aged ≥65 years and hospitalized for treatment of traumatic cervical spine injuries in 78 hospitals between 2010 and 2020. Early mortality was defined as death within 90 days after injury. We evaluated the relationship between early mortality and the following factors: age, sex, body mass index, history of drinking and smoking, injury mechanisms, presence of a cervical spine fracture and dislocation, cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale, concomitant injury, pre-existing comorbidities, steroid administration, and treatment plan. Overall, 1512 patients (mean age, 75.8 ± 6.9 years) were included in the study. The early mortality rate was 4.0%. Multivariate analysis identified older age (OR = 1.1, p < 0.001), male sex (OR = 3.7, p = 0.009), cervical spine fracture (OR = 4.2, p < 0.001), complete motor paralysis (OR = 8.4, p < 0.001), and chronic kidney disease (OR = 5.3, p < 0.001) as risk factors for early mortality. Older age, male sex, cervical spine fracture, complete motor paralysis, and chronic kidney disease are prognostic factors for early mortality in older patients with traumatic cervical spine injuries.
T Cells Immunophenotyping and CD38 Overexpression as Hallmarks of the Severity of COVID-19 and Predictors of Patients’ Outcomes
Authors: Tarbiah Nesrin I. , Alkhattabi Nuha A. , Alsahafi Abdullah J. , Aljahdali Hani S. , Joharjy Husam M. , Al-Zahrani Maryam H. , Sabban Aliaa M. , Alghamdi Rana A. , Balgoon Maha J. , Khalifa Reham A.
Published: January 2023

Background: By the end of 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic spread all around the world with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations ranging from mild to moderate to severe or critical cases. T cell subtype dysregulation is mostly involved in the immunopathogenic mechanism. The present study aimed to highlight the role of monitoring T cell subtypes and their activation (expression of CD38) in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy subjects and their role in predicting severity and patients’ outcomes. Materials: The study involved 70 adult COVID-19 confirmed cases stratified into three groups: a mild/asymptomatic group, a clinically moderate group, and a clinically severe/critical group. Flow cytometry analysis was used for the assessment of CD3+ cells for total T cell count, CD4+ cells for helper T cells (Th), CD8+ cells for cytotoxic T cells (Tc), CD4+CD25+ cells for regulatory T cells (T reg), and CD38 expression in CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells for T cell activation. Results: A statistically significant difference was found between COVID-19 cases and healthy controls as regards low counts of all the targeted T cell subtypes, with the lowest counts detected among patients of the severe/critical group. Furthermore, CD38 overexpression was observed in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Conclusion: Decreased T cell count, specifically CD8+ T cell (Tc), with T cell overactivation which was indicated by CD38 overexpression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells had a substantial prognostic role in predicting severity and mortality among COVID-19 patients. These findings can provide a preliminary tool for clinicians to identify high-risk patients requiring vigilant monitoring, customized supportive therapy, or ICU admission. Studies on larger patient groups are needed.
Same Clinical Reality of Spontaneous Rupture of the Common Iliac Artery with Pseudoaneurysm Formation—Comparison of Two Therapeutical Solutions, Endovascular Stent-Graft and Open Surgical Correction, for Two Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moldovan Horațiu , Tiganasu Robert , Câlmâc Lucian , Voica Cristian , Broască Marian , Diaconu Camelia , Ichim Vlad , Cacoveanu Mihai , Mirea Liliana , Nica Claudia , Minoiu Costin , Dobra Irina , Gheorghiță Daniela , Dorobanțu Lucian , Molnar Adrian , Iliuță Luminița
Published: January 2023

The incidence of isolated iliac artery aneurysms is approximately 2% and common iliac artery pseudoaneurysms are even rarer. A pseudoaneurysm is a localized hemorrhage as opposed to an actual aneurysm, which affects the entire vascular wall. They are typically asymptomatic and only detectable accidentally while looking for other causes. If large and symptomatic, they typically exhibit pressure symptoms as a result of the compression of the structures around them. Common symptoms include generalized stomach pain, urological problems, gastrointestinal bleeding, and neurological symptoms such as leg paralysis or sciatica-like back pain. Rarely, they may exhibit hemodynamic instability together with an aneurysm rupture, which has a high fatality rate. Due to the unique presentation, the diagnosis is typically rarely made and there is little experience with treating it. We report two cases of common iliac artery pseudoaneurysm found in two patients who had no notable medical history and who we chose to repair through the endovascular technique in the first case, an approach that has gained more ground for vascular repair worldwide, making it the current go-to method, and for the second case we chose a more traditional approach, through open surgery.
Developing a Deep Learning Model to Evaluate Bulbar Conjunctival Injection with Color Anterior Segment Photographs
Authors: Wei Shanshan , Wang Yuexin , Shi Faqiang , Sun Siman , Li Xuemin
Published: January 2023

The present research aims to evaluate the feasibility of a deep-learning model in identifying bulbar conjunctival injection grading. Methods: We collected 1401 color anterior segment photographs demonstrating the cornea and bulbar conjunctival. The ground truth was bulbar conjunctival injection scores labeled by human ophthalmologists. Two convolutional neural network-based models were constructed and trained. Accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, Kappa, and the area under the curve (AUC) were calculated to evaluate the efficiency of the deep learning models. The micro-average and macro-average AUC values for model grading bulbar conjunctival injection were 0.98 and 0.98, respectively. The deep learning model achieved a high accuracy of 87.12%, a precision of 87.13%, a recall of 87.12%, an F1-score of 87.07%, and Cohen’s Kappa of 0.8153. The deep learning model demonstrated excellent performance in evaluating the severity of bulbar conjunctival injection, and it has the potential to help evaluate ocular surface diseases and determine disease progression and recovery.
Resilience, Stress, Well-Being, and Sleep Quality in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Novak Anne Marie , Lev-Ari Shahar
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive, immune-mediated disorder that affects the Central Nervous System and is the most common cause of non-traumatic neurological disability in young adults. The study aimed to assess the levels of stress, resilience, well-being, sleep quality, and fatigue in Israeli people with MS (PwMS), and to examine the associations between these factors and the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. These factors had never before been studied in conjunction in PwMS, nor had they been systematically addressed in Israel, the unique geopolitical situation of which may pose unique challenges. (2) Methods: This was a survey-based, cross-sectional study conducted through an Internet platform. (3) Results: Israeli PwMS who participated in the study were experiencing relatively high levels of stress and low resilience, poor sleep quality, and severe fatigue. The analysis revealed significant associations between resilience and stress, well-being, and anxiety, as well as stress and well-being, resilience, sleep quality, fatigue, and Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS). (4) Conclusions: the Israeli PwMS who participated in the study were experiencing higher levels of stress, lower resilience and worse sleep quality than PwMS in other countries, as compared to results previously reported in literature. The findings of this study ought to serve as a call to action for the MS care providers in Israel and warrant further research into the possible causes of the phenomenon and strategies to address it.