bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine Adsorber Use during DCD Heart Perfusion Counteracts Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Saemann Lars , Hoorn Fabio , Georgevici Adrian-Iustin , Pohl Sabine , Korkmaz-Icöz Sevil , Veres Gábor , Guo Yuxing , Karck Matthias , Simm Andreas , Wenzel Folker , Szabó Gábor
Published: November 2022

Microvascular dysfunction (MVD) in cardiac allografts is associated with an impaired endothelial function in the coronary microvasculature. Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) deteriorates endothelial function. Hearts donated after circulatory death (DCD) are exposed to warm ischemia before initiating ex vivo blood perfusion (BP). The impact of cytokine adsorption during BP to prevent MVD in DCD hearts is unknown. In a porcine DCD model, we assessed the microvascular function of hearts after BP with (DCD-BPCytoS, n = 5) or without (DCD-BP, n = 5) cytokine adsorption (CytoSorb®). Microvascular autoregulation was assessed by increasing the coronary perfusion pressure, while myocardial microcirculation was measured by Laser-Doppler-Perfusion (LDP). We analyzed the immunoreactivity of arteriolar oxidative stress markers nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), endothelial injury indicating cell adhesion molecules CD54, CD106 and CD31, and eNOS. We profiled the concentration of 13 cytokines in the perfusate. The expression of 84 genes was determined and analyzed using machine learning and decision trees. Non-DCD hearts served as a control for the gene expression analysis. Compared to DCD-BP, relative LDP was improved in the DCD-BPCytoS group (1.51 ± 0.17 vs. 1.08 ± 0.17). Several pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were reduced in the DCD-BPCytoS group. The expression of eNOS significantly increased, and the expression of nitrotyrosine, HNE, CD54, CD106, and CD31, markers of endothelial injury, majorly decreased in the DCD-BPCytoS group. Three genes allowed exact differentiation between groups; regulation of HIF1A enabled differentiation between perfusion (DCD-BP, DCD-BPCytoS) and non-perfusion groups. CAV1 allowed differentiation between BP and BPCytoS. The use of a cytokine adsorption device during BP counteracts preload-dependent MVD and preserves the microvascular endothelium by preventing oxidative stress and IRI of coronary arterioles of DCD hearts.
Post-Translational Modifications Evoked by Reactive Carbonyl Species in Ultraviolet-A-Exposed Skin: Implication in Fibroblast Senescence and Skin Photoaging
Authors: Negre-Salvayre Anne , Salvayre Robert
Published: November 2022

Photoaging is an accelerated form of aging resulting from skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV-A radiation deeply penetrates the dermis and triggers the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which promotes damage to DNA, lipids and proteins. Lipid peroxidation results from the oxidative attack of polyunsaturated fatty acids which generate a huge amount of lipid peroxidation products, among them reactive carbonyl species (RCS) such as α, β-unsaturated hydroxyalkenals (e.g., 4-hydroxynonenal), acrolein or malondialdehyde. These highly reactive agents form adducts on free NH2 groups and thiol residues on amino acids in proteins and can also modify DNA and phospholipids. The accumulation of RCS-adducts leads to carbonyl stress characterized by progressive cellular and tissular dysfunction, inflammation and toxicity. RCS-adducts are formed in the dermis of skin exposed to UV-A radiation. Several RCS targets have been identified in the dermis, such as collagen and elastin in the extracellular matrix, whose modification could contribute to actinic elastosis lesions. RCS-adducts may play a role in fibroblast senescence via the modification of histones, and the sirtuin SIRT1, leading to an accumulation of acetylated proteins. The cytoskeleton protein vimentin is modified by RCS, which could impair fibroblast motility. A better identification of protein modification and carbonyl stress in the dermis may help to develop new treatment approaches for preventing photoaging.
Evaluation of the Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Rhaponticoides iconiensis Flowers: Effects on Key Enzymes Linked to Type 2 Diabetes In Vitro, In Silico and on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats In Vivo
Authors: Paşayeva Leyla , Fatullayev Hanifa , Celik Ismail , Unal Gokhan , Bozkurt Nuh Mehmet , Tugay Osman , Abdellattif Magda H.
Published: November 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the globally worst killer diseases. In this study, the in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activity and antioxidant capacity were determined and the phytochemical analyses were carried out on flower extract and sub-extracts of Rhaponticoides iconiensis. The in vitro antidiabetic activity was tested with α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition methods and an in vivo OGTT test in healthy and alloxan-induced rats. Although, the antioxidant activity was investigated with DPPH●, ABTS●+ and FRAP tests, the phytochemical composition analysis was carried out by LC-MS/MS. The highest α-glucosidase and α-amylase activity even from positive control acarbose were found in the ethyl acetate sub-extract of R. iconiensis (IC50 = 11.737 ± 0.823 µg/mL and 84.247 ± 0.721 µg/mL, respectively). This sub-extract also was active according to the results of in vivo tests. Moreover, the highest antioxidant activity on DPPH● (IC50 = 0.126 ± 0.002 mg/mL), FRAP (at a concentration of 1 mg/mL equivalent to 3112.052 ± 2.023 mmol Fe2+) and ABTS+● (at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL equivalent to 0.608 ± 0.005 µM Trolox) tests. In addition, LC-MS/MS analyses of the active sub-extract revealed mainly the presence of patuletin, patuletin 3,7-diglucoside, naringin and 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid detected in the active sub-extract. In silico molecular docking and dynamics simulations studies were performed on these compounds with α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes for protein–ligand interactions and stability.
Hydrophobic Carbonate Coatings on Pure Biodegradable Mg by Immersion in Carbonated Water: Formation Mechanism
Authors: Popa Monica , Anastasescu Mihai , Gifu Ioana Catalina , Calderon Moreno Jose M.
Published: November 2022

Mg is one of the few materials of choice for biodegradable implants, despite its rapid degradation when used without surface protection treatment. This study presents the effect of carbonation time on the formation of hydrophobic carbonate coatings grown on pure magnesium using a simple, green chemical conversion method in carbonated water. The evolution of the coating with immersion time in carbonating solution was studied in order to ascertain the mechanistic of coating formation by Raman and EDS spectroscopy, XRD, SEM and AFM microscopy. Wettability was investigated by contact angle measurements. The formation mechanism of the hydrophobic coating involves the surface nucleation of carbonates mediated by the dissolution of the native corrosion product, brucite Mg(OH)2, surface conversion into hydroxycarbonates, surface calcite nucleation and growth by attachment of nanoparticles, leading to the lateral growth of a continuous carbonate coating layer of intertwined calcite microcrystals.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Led Technological Tremors: A Seismic Shift towards Digitizing the Legal Ecosystem
Authors: Bhatt Hitesh , Bahuguna Rajesh , Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Akram Shaik Vaseem , Priyadarshi Neeraj , Twala Bhekisipho
Published: November 2022

The legal ecosystem is continuously confronted with new challenges and disruptions as a result of the technological invasion initiated by cutting-edge technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, which have taken over the world. The amalgamation of AI-enabled mechanisms and robotics into human life has elevated significant issues. This digital juggernaut cannot stay constant by the legal landscape, and some degree of assimilation is permitted to pave the way for the efficient administration of justice. The current study is significant since there is a substantial absence of legal research into the implications of AI and robotics on legal rights, which undoubtedly impacts the legal ecosystem. In this study, we have examined the significance, progress, and challenges of integrating Robotics and AI into the legal ecosystem, as they pave way for resilient legal infrastructure. Issues such as privacy, ethical grievances, data protection, confidentiality, and integrity issues are evaluated in this study. The study reviewed existing research into AI and robotics intervention in the legal ecosystem to propose a framework for addressing the increased concerns about the implications of technological apparatus in the legal ecosystem. Finally, the study concludes with recommendations that can be adopted for future work.
Effects of Melatonin in the Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Purpura Simone , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira , Oliveira Filipa Pinto , de Castro Filipe Correia
Published: November 2022

Background: Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland, an endocrine gland located at the base of the brain. It acts as a powerful antioxidant; it can bring numerous advantages to periodontal diseases, pursuing homeostasis, such as restoration of the concentration of antioxidants, reduction of periodontal inflammation with the regulation of inflammatory cytokines, reduction of oxidative stress, and significant reduction of bone resorption through the modulation of osteoclastic and osteoblastic activities. Then, the goal of this integrative review was to evaluate the literature to better understand whether the use of melatonin is feasible to improve the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis. Methods: The integrative review was based on PICO strategy and PRISMA methodology. The focus question was: “Are there significant benefits in applying melatonin for the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis?” The PubMed, B-On, and Cochrane Library databases were enrolled, using the keywords melatonin, periodontal therapy, non-surgical treatment, and periodontitis, as associated with the Boolean connectors. The inclusion criteria were (i) CCT or RCT, (ii) adult population, (iii) full-text articles available, and (iv) in the last 10 years (2012–2022). The exclusion criteria were (i) animal studies, (ii) systematic review, and (iii) no other languages than English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. A risk of bias was performed to assess the articles. Results: Initially, 2705 articles were identified. However, only six articles were included. From a total of 228 patients (109F and 119M) diagnosed with periodontitis, 22 patients dropped out (9.65%). The follow-up period varied between 8 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. For clinical and molecular parameters, the melatonin group had significant and greater improvement (intragroup) and better data than the control group, which also had favorable results. There was low risk of bias for all studies. Conclusions: Within the limitation of this study, melatonin is a reliable and feasible option as an adjunctive to the classical NSPT, obtaining a significative improvement of the periodontal parameters (PD, CAL, BOP, PI, and GI), a significative reduction of the pro-inflammatory proteins (IL-1b, IL-6, and TNF-α), and a better response for other biomarkers.
Oral and Systemic Health in the Elderly
Authors: Di Spirito Federica
Published: November 2022

The oral cavity undergoes essential age-related changes involving the mucosa, the dental and periodontal tissues, and the musculoskeletal system [...]
Deep Rock Mass Engineering: Excavation, Monitoring, and Control
Authors: Li Pengfei , Xu Qing , Fang Qian
Published: November 2022

With the continuing development of the global economy and society, the exploitation of underground space is undergoing an unprecedented prosperity period [...]
Isolation and Characterization of Bacillus velezensis from Lake Bogoria as a Potential Biocontrol of Fusarium solani in Phaseolus vulgaris L.
Authors: Wekesa Tofick B. , Wekesa Vitalis W. , Onguso Justus M. , Wafula Eliud N. , Kavesu Ndinda
Published: November 2022

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a significant vegetable crop, grown because it is a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamin B complex. Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani are the most widely known pathogens contributing to large yield losses for this crop. The use of cultural and chemical control practices has been ineffective. Therefore, a sustainable, affordable, and effective control method is urgently required. In this study, we aimed to isolate and characterize Bacillus velezensis from Lake Bogoria as a potential biocontrol agent for Fusarium solani. Bacteria were isolated from soil and sediments using the serial dilution technique. Molecular characterization was performed using the 16S rRNA gene. A total of 13 bacteria were isolated from soil and sediments. Based on the partial sequences, BLAST analysis showed two isolates, B20 (Bacillus velezensis strain QH03-23) and B30 (Bacillus velezensis strain JS39D), belonging to Bacillus velezensis. Other isolates were identified as Bacillus tequilensis, Brevibacillus brevis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Bacillus licheniformis. The effectiveness of their antifungal properties was determined via co-culturing, and we found mycelial inhibition rates of 28.17% (for B20) and 33.33% (for B30) for the Fusarium solani isolates. The characterization of the Bacillus velezensis strain revealed that they were Gram-positive and grew well at pH 7.0 and 8.5, although growth was recorded at pH 5.0 and 10.0. In terms of temperature, the optimal temperature conditions were 30−35 °C, with an optimum salinity of 0–0.5 M NaCl. When these isolates were tested for their ability to produce secondary metabolites, they were found to produce phosphate, pectinase, chitinase, protease, indole -3- acetic acid (IAA), and hydrogen cyanide (HCD), making them potential biocontrol agents.
Secondary Zinc–Air Batteries: A View on Rechargeability Aspects
Authors: Yadav Sudheer Kumar , Deckenbach Daniel , Schneider Jörg J.
Published: November 2022

Metal–air batteries hold a competitive energy density and are frequently recommended as a solution for low-cost, environmentally friendly electrochemical energy storage applications. Rechargeable zinc–air batteries are prominently studied future devices for energy storage applications. Up to date and despite substantial efforts over the last decades, it is not commercialized on a broader scale because of inadequate performance. Most essential, the ultimate long-term functional zinc–air battery has yet to be discovered. This challenge should be resolved appropriately before articulating the zinc–air batteries to commercial reality and be deployed widespread. We review the present status and some breakthroughs in rechargeable zinc–air batteries research in the last few years, focusing on the anode-related issues. A critical overview of the last five years of the still less explored but essential aspects of rechargeability in zinc–air batteries, such as zinc utilization, solid electrolyte interface, and cell design is presented, some perspectives on possible solutions are offered.
Intraoperative Creation of Tissue-Engineered Grafts with Minimally Manipulated Cells: New Concept of Bone Tissue Engineering In Situ
Authors: Krasilnikova Olga A. , Baranovskii Denis S. , Yakimova Anna O. , Arguchinskaya Nadezhda , Kisel Anastas , Sosin Dmitry , Sulina Yana , Ivanov Sergey A. , Shegay Peter V. , Kaprin Andrey D. , Klabukov Ilya D.
Published: November 2022

Transfer of regenerative approaches into clinical practice is limited by strict legal regulation of in vitro expanded cells and risks associated with substantial manipulations. Isolation of cells for the enrichment of bone grafts directly in the Operating Room appears to be a promising solution for the translation of biomedical technologies into clinical practice. These intraoperative approaches could be generally characterized as a joint concept of tissue engineering in situ. Our review covers techniques of intraoperative cell isolation and seeding for the creation of tissue-engineered grafts in situ, that is, directly in the Operating Room. Up-to-date, the clinical use of tissue-engineered grafts created in vitro remains a highly inaccessible option. Fortunately, intraoperative tissue engineering in situ is already available for patients who need advanced treatment modalities.
The Assessment of Medication Effects in Omicron Patients through MADM Approach Based on Distance Measures of Interval-Valued Fuzzy Hypersoft Set
Authors: Arshad Muhammad , Saeed Muhammad , Rahman Atiqe Ur , Zebari Dilovan Asaad , Mohammed Mazin Abed , Al-Waisy Alaa S. , Albahar Marwan , Thanoon Mohammed
Published: November 2022

Omicron, so-called COVID-2, is an emerging variant of COVID-19 which is proved to be the most fatal amongst the other variants such as alpha, beta and gamma variants (α, β, γ variants) due to its stern and perilous nature. It has caused hazardous effects globally in a very short span of time. The diagnosis and medication of Omicron patients are both challenging undertakings for researchers (medical experts) due to the involvement of various uncertainties and the vagueness of its altering behavior. In this study, an algebraic approach, interval-valued fuzzy hypersoft set (iv-FHSS), is employed to assess the conditions of patients after the application of suitable medication. Firstly, the distance measures between two iv-FHSSs are formulated with a brief description some of its properties, then a multi-attribute decision-making framework is designed through the proposal of an algorithm. This framework consists of three phases of medication. In the first phase, the Omicron-diagnosed patients are shortlisted and an iv-FHSS is constructed for such patients and then they are medicated. Another iv-FHSS is constructed after their first medication. Similarly, the relevant iv-FHSSs are constructed after second and third medications in other phases. The distance measures of these post-medication-based iv-FHSSs are computed with pre-medication-based iv-FHSS and the monotone pattern of distance measures are analyzed. It is observed that a decreasing pattern of computed distance measures assures that the medication is working well and the patients are recovering. In case of an increasing pattern, the medication is changed and the same procedure is repeated for the assessment of its effects. This approach is reliable due to the consideration of parameters (symptoms) and sub parameters (sub symptoms) jointly as multi-argument approximations.
The Exploration of Microbial Natural Products and Metabolic Interaction Guided by Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Li Hao , Li Zhiyong
Published: November 2022

As an impressive mass spectrometry technology, mass spectrometric imaging (MSI) can provide mass spectra data and spatial distribution of analytes simultaneously. MSI has been widely used in diverse fields such as clinical diagnosis, the pharmaceutical industry and environmental study due to its accuracy, high resolution and developing reproducibility. Natural products (NPs) have been a critical source of leading drugs; almost half of marketed drugs are derived from NPs or their derivatives. The continuous search for bioactive NPs from microorganisms or microbiomes has always been attractive. MSI allows us to analyze and characterize NPs directly in monocultured microorganisms or a microbial community. In this review, we briefly introduce current mainstream ionization technologies for microbial samples and the key issue of sample preparation, and then summarize some applications of MSI in the exploration of microbial NPs and metabolic interaction, especially NPs from marine microbes. Additionally, remaining challenges and future prospects are discussed.
Temperature and Humidity Regulate Sporulation of Corynespora cassiicola That Is Associated with Pathogenicity in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Zhao Qian , Shi Yanxia , Wang Yikai , Xie Xuewen , Li Lei , Fan Tengfei , Guo Liyun , Chai Ali , Li Baoju
Published: November 2022

Cucumber target leaf spot, caused by Corynespora cassiicola, is an emerging disease with a high incidence that causes severe damage to cucumbers on a global scale. Therefore, efforts need to be undertaken to limit the spread and infection of this pathogen, preferably by using environmentally friendly methods. In this study, the effects of temperature and moisture on the sporulation of C. cassiicola were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The novelty of our study refers to the observation of spore production and size as well as the revelation of a correlation between spore size and virulence. On potato dextrose agar (PDA) and cucumber−leaf extract agar (CEA), temperature played a critical role in spore production, which was strongly influenced by both temperature and moisture on detached leaves and cucumber seedlings. Maximum spore production was found at 30 °C on PDA and 25 °C on CEA, cucumber detached leaves and living plants. Lower spore productions were observed with a stepwise change of 5 °C. In addition, the largest spore production was found at 100% relative humidity (RH) in comparison to the other tested moisture. Moreover, moisture was found to be the most important factor affecting spore size, accounting for 83.09–84.86% of the total variance in length and 44.72–73.10% of the total variance in width. The longest−narrowest spores were formed at 100% RH, and the shortest−widest spores were formed at 75% RH. Furthermore, the result showed that larger spores of C. cassiicola were more virulent and small spores were avirulent. Our findings will contribute to the development of new strategies for the effective alleviation and control of cucumber target leaf spot.
Circulating Serum Cystatin C as an Independent Risk Biomarker for Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients with COVID-19-Associated Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Kreslová Marcela , Jehlička Petr , Sýkorová Aneta , Rajdl Daniel , Klásková Eva , Prokop Pavel , Kaprálová Sabina , Pavlíček Jan , Kaslová Romana , Palátová Alžběta , Mohylová Veronika , Sýkora Josef
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a new clinical entity that has emerged in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the less severe course of the disease, varying degrees of cardiovascular events may occur in MIS-C; however, data on vascular changes occurring in MIS-C are still lacking. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is thought to be one of the key risk factors contributing to MIS-C. Background: We conducted a prospective observational study. We investigated possible manifestations of cardiac and endothelial involvement in MIS-C after the treatment of the acute stage and potential predictive biomarkers in patients with MIS-C. Methods: Twenty-seven consecutive pediatric subjects (≥9 years), at least three months post-treated MIS-C of varying severity, in a stable condition, and twenty-three age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (HI), were enrolled. A combined non-invasive diagnostic approach was used to assess endothelial function as well as markers of organ damage using cardiac examination and measurement of the reactive hyperemia index (RHI), by recording the post- to pre-occlusion pulsatile volume changes and biomarkers related to ED and cardiac disease. Results: MIS-C patients exhibited a significantly lower RHI (indicative of more severe ED) than those in HI (1.32 vs. 1.80; p = 0.001). The cutoff of RHI ≤ 1.4 was independently associated with a higher cardiovascular risk. Age and biomarkers significantly correlated with RHI, while serum cystatin C (Cys C) levels were independently associated with a diminished RHI, suggesting Cys C as a surrogate marker of ED in MIS-C. Conclusions: Patients after MIS-C display evidence of ED, as shown by a diminished RHI and altered endothelial biomarkers. Cys C was identified as an independent indicator for the development of cardiovascular disease. The combination of these factors has the potential to better predict the cardiovascular consequences of MIS-C. Our study suggests that ED may be implicated in the pathophysiology of this disease.
Targeting Adiponectin in Breast Cancer
Authors: Nehme Rawan , Diab-Assaf Mona , Decombat Caroline , Delort Laetitia , Caldefie-Chezet Florence
Published: November 2022

Obesity and breast cancer are two major health issues that could be categorized as sincere threats to human health. In the last few decades, the relationship between obesity and cancer has been well established and extensively investigated. There is strong evidence that overweight and obesity increase the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer, and adipokines are the central players in this relationship. Produced and secreted predominantly by white adipose tissue, adiponectin is a bioactive molecule that exhibits numerous protective effects and is considered the guardian angel of adipokine. In the obesity–cancer relationship, more and more evidence shows that adiponectin may prevent and protect individuals from developing breast cancer. Recently, several updates have been published on the implication of adiponectin in regulating tumor development, progression, and metastases. In this review, we provide an updated overview of the metabolic signaling linking adiponectin and breast cancer in all its stages. On the other hand, we critically summarize all the available promising candidates that may reactivate these pathways mainly by targeting adiponectin receptors. These molecules could be synthetic small molecules or plant-based proteins. Interestingly, the advances in genomics have made it possible to create peptide sequences that could specifically replace human adiponectin, activate its receptor, and mimic its function. Thus, the obvious anti-cancer activity of adiponectin on breast cancer should be better exploited, and adiponectin must be regarded as a serious biomarker that should be targeted in order to confront this threatening disease.
Effectiveness of Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction and the Relationship with Cervical Spine
Authors: Crăciun Maria Daniela , Geman Oana , Leuciuc Florin Valentin , Holubiac Iulian Ştefan , Gheorghiţă Daniela , Filip Florin
Published: November 2022

Temporomandibular dysfunctions are a heterogeneous group of conditions involving the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and periarticular musculoskeletal structures. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a physiotherapy program for TMJ dysfunctions and the relationship with cervical spine. The study design was a non-randomized clinical trial with two parallel treatment groups: 33 subjects in the experimental group that underwent conservative drug treatment and physiotherapy treatment, and 31 subjects in the control group that underwent only conservative drug treatment. The participants were examined at baseline and re-examined after 3 months. In this study there was a higher incidence of female subjects. After 3 months of treatment of the TMJs and cervical spine, pain decreased in both groups (p = 0001). Muscle testing at the cervical spine and temporomandibular level showed a decrease in pain and muscles spasms. The average percentage values of the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale 8 (JFLS 8) decreased significantly in both groups, but especially in the experimental group (p = 0.001). Physiotherapy treatments could maintain the functional state at the temporomandibular and cervical levels, thus contributing to increasing the quality of daily life.
Adenosine and Adenosine Receptors: Advances in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Maille Baptiste , Lalevée Nathalie , Marlinge Marion , Vahdat Juliette , Mottola Giovanna , Degioanni Clara , De Maria Lucille , Klein Victor , Thuny Franck , Franceschi Frédéric , Deharo Jean-Claude , Guieu Régis , Fromonot Julien
Published: November 2022

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in the world. Because the key to developing innovative therapies that limit the onset and the progression of AF is to fully understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of AF, the aim of the present narrative review is to report the most recent advances in the potential role of the adenosinergic system in the pathophysiology of AF. After a comprehensive approach describing adenosinergic system signaling and the mechanisms of the initiation and maintenance of AF, we address the interactions of the adenosinergic system’s signaling with AF. Indeed, adenosine release can activate four G-coupled membrane receptors, named A1, A2A, A2B and A3. Activation of the A2A receptors can promote the occurrence of delayed depolarization, while activation of the A1 receptors can shorten the action potential’s duration and induce the resting membrane’s potential hyperpolarization, which promote pulmonary vein firing, stabilize the AF rotors and allow for functional reentry. Moreover, the A2B receptors have been associated with atrial fibrosis homeostasis. Finally, the adenosinergic system can modulate the autonomous nervous system and is associated with AF risk factors. A question remains regarding adenosine release and the adenosine receptors’ activation and whether this would be a cause or consequence of AF.
Alteration of the IFN-Pathway by Human Papillomavirus Proteins: Antiviral Immune Response Evasion Mechanism
Authors: Castro-Muñoz Leonardo Josué , Rocha-Zavaleta Leticia , Lizano Marcela , Ramírez-Alcántara Katia Montserrat , Madrid-Marina Vicente , Manzo-Merino Joaquín
Published: November 2022

A persistent infection with the so-called high-risk Human Papillomaviruses (hr-HPVs) plays a fundamental role in the development of different neoplasms. The expression of the HPV proteins throughout the different steps of the viral life cycle produce a disruption of several cellular processes, including immune response, which can lead to cell transformation. The interferon-mediated response plays an important role in eliminating HPV-infected and -transformed cells. The ability of HPV to disrupt the proper function of the interferon response is based on a series of molecular mechanisms coordinated by HPV proteins intended to prevent clearance of infection, ultimately producing an immunotolerant environment that facilitates the establishment of persistence and cancer. In this review, we focus on the molecular actions performed by HPV E1, E2, E5, E6 and E7 proteins on IFN signaling elements and their contribution to the establishment of infection, viral persistence and the progression to cancer.
Improving Nasal Protection for Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Nocini Riccardo , Henry Brandon Michael , Mattiuzzi Camilla , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Airborne pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, are mainly contracted within the airway pathways, especially in the nasal epithelia, where inhaled air is mostly filtered in resting conditions. Mucosal immunity developing after SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination in this part of the body represents one of the most efficient deterrents for preventing viral infection. Nonetheless, the complete lack of such protection in SARS-CoV-2 naïve or seronegative subjects, the limited capacity of neutralizing new and highly mutated lineages, along with the progressive waning of mucosal immunity over time, lead the way to considering alternative strategies for constructing new walls that could stop or entrap the virus at the nasal mucosa surface, which is the area primarily colonized by the new SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineages. Among various infection preventive strategies, those based on generating physical barriers within the nose, aimed at impeding host cell penetration (i.e., using compounds with mucoadhesive properties, which act by hindering, entrapping or adsorbing the virus), or those preventing the association of SARS-CoV-2 with its cellular receptors (i.e., administering anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies or agents that inhibit priming or binding of the spike protein) could be considered appealing perspectives. Provided that these agents are proven safe, comfortable, and compatible with daily life, we suggest prioritizing their usage in subjects at enhanced risk of contagion, during high-risk activities, as well as in patients more likely to develop severe forms of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Plasma Scalpels: Devices, Diagnostics, and Applications
Authors: Xiao Ao , Liu Dawei , He Dongcheng , Lu Xinpei , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: November 2022

The plasma scalpel is an application of gas discharges in electrosurgery. This paper introduces the device structure and physicochemical parameters of the two types of plasma scalpels, namely, a single-electrode Ar discharge device (argon plasma coagulation) and a two-electrode discharge device in normal saline. The diagnostic methods, including the voltage and current characteristics, optical emission spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, and high-speed imaging, are introduced to determine the critical process parameters, such as the plasma power, the gas temperature, the electron density, and the density of active species, and study the ignition dynamics of the plasma discharges in water. The efficacy of the plasma scalpel is mainly based on the physical effects of the electric current and electric field, in addition to the chemical effects of high-density energetic electrons and reactive species. These two effects can be adjusted separately to increase the treatment efficacy of the plasma scalpel. Specific guidance on further improvements of the plasma scalpel devices is also provided.
A Hybrid Workflow of Residual Convolutional Transformer Encoder for Breast Cancer Classification Using Digital X-ray Mammograms
Authors: Al-Tam Riyadh M. , Al-Hejri Aymen M. , Narangale Sachin M. , Samee Nagwan Abdel , Mahmoud Noha F. , Al-masni Mohammed A. , Al-antari Mugahed A.
Published: November 2022

Breast cancer, which attacks the glandular epithelium of the breast, is the second most common kind of cancer in women after lung cancer, and it affects a significant number of people worldwide. Based on the advantages of Residual Convolutional Network and the Transformer Encoder with Multiple Layer Perceptron (MLP), this study proposes a novel hybrid deep learning Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) system for breast lesions. While the backbone residual deep learning network is employed to create the deep features, the transformer is utilized to classify breast cancer according to the self-attention mechanism. The proposed CAD system has the capability to recognize breast cancer in two scenarios: Scenario A (Binary classification) and Scenario B (Multi-classification). Data collection and preprocessing, patch image creation and splitting, and artificial intelligence-based breast lesion identification are all components of the execution framework that are applied consistently across both cases. The effectiveness of the proposed AI model is compared against three separate deep learning models: a custom CNN, the VGG16, and the ResNet50. Two datasets, CBIS-DDSM and DDSM, are utilized to construct and test the proposed CAD system. Five-fold cross validation of the test data is used to evaluate the accuracy of the performance results. The suggested hybrid CAD system achieves encouraging evaluation results, with overall accuracies of 100% and 95.80% for binary and multiclass prediction challenges, respectively. The experimental results reveal that the proposed hybrid AI model could identify benign and malignant breast tissues significantly, which is important for radiologists to recommend further investigation of abnormal mammograms and provide the optimal treatment plan.
Enhanced Adhesion of Synthetic Discs with Micro-Patterned Margins
Authors: Zhou Weimian , Wu Xuan
Published: November 2022

Many aquatic creatures in nature have non-cooperative surface scaling abilities using suction organs; micro-/nano-scale structures found in different parts of the organs play an important role in this mechanism. Synthetic bioinspired suction devices have been developed, but the mechanisms of bioinspired suction system need further investigation. This paper presents the development of a synthetic adhesive disc inspired by the hillstream loach. The microscopic structures involved in adhesion of the hillstream loach were investigated. Bioinspired suction discs were designed with single-level or hierarchical micropatterned margins. Micro three-dimensional (3D) printing and micro electromechanical system (MEMs) technology were utilized in the fabrication of the discs, and the adhesion performance was tested on substrates with different roughness values. The engaging and disengaging processes of the margin were simulated by carrying out a peeling test on a submerged substrate. The interactions between the liquid film and the microstructures were observed using fluorescence microscopy. The enhanced adhesion forces due to the synergy of the hierarchically micro-patterned margin and the disc cavity were duplicated in the synthetic adhesion system.
Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Nishikawa Daisuke , Suzuki Hidenori , Beppu Shintaro , Terada Hoshino , Sawabe Michi , Hanai Nobuhiro
Published: November 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancer has a better prognosis than other head and neck cancers. However, rates of recurrence and metastasis are similar and the prognosis of recurrent or metastatic HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer is poor. Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a treatment involving administration of a photosensitizer (IRDye®700DX) conjugated to a monoclonal antibody followed by activation with near-infrared light illumination. It is a highly tumor-specific therapy with minimal toxicity in normal tissues. Moreover, NIR-PIT is expected to have not only direct effects on a treated lesion but also immune responses on untreated distant lesions. NIR-PIT with cetuximab-IR700 (AlluminoxTM) has been in routine clinical use since January 2021 for unresectable locally advanced or locally recurrent head and neck cancer in patients that have previously undergone radiotherapy in Japan. NIR-PIT for head and neck cancer (HN-PIT) is expected to provide a curative treatment option for the locoregional recurrent or metastatic disease after radiotherapy and surgery. This article reviews the mechanism underlying the effect of NIR-PIT and recent clinical trials of NIR-PIT for head and neck cancers, treatment-specific adverse events, combination treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors, illumination approach and posttreatment quality of life, and provides a case of series of two patients who receive NIR-PIT for oropharyngeal cancer at our institution.
Tissue-Specific Human Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds Promote Pancreatic Tumour Progression and Chemotherapy Resistance
Authors: Al-Akkad Walid , Acedo Pilar , Vilia Maria-Giovanna , Frenguelli Luca , Ney Alexander , Rodriguez-Hernandez Irene , Labib Peter L. , Tamburrino Domenico , Spoletini Gabriele , Hall Andrew R. , Canestrari Simone , Osnato Anna , Garcia-Bernardo Jose , Sejour Leinal , Vassileva Vessela , Vlachos Ioannis S. , Fusai Giuseppe , Luong Tu Vinh , Whittaker Steven R. , Pereira Stephen P. , Vallier Ludovic , Pinzani Massimo , Rombouts Krista , Mazza Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Over 80% of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are diagnosed at a late stage and are locally advanced or with concurrent metastases. The aggressive phenotype and relative chemo- and radiotherapeutic resistance of PDAC is thought to be mediated largely by its prominent stroma, which is supported by an extracellular matrix (ECM). Therefore, we investigated the impact of tissue-matched human ECM in driving PDAC and the role of the ECM in promoting chemotherapy resistance. Decellularized human pancreata and livers were recellularized with PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 (PDAC cell lines), as well as PK-1 cells (liver-derived metastatic PDAC cell line). PANC-1 cells migrated into the pancreatic scaffolds, MIA PaCa-2 cells were able to migrate into both scaffolds, whereas PK-1 cells were able to migrate into the liver scaffolds only. These differences were supported by significant deregulations in gene and protein expression between the pancreas scaffolds, liver scaffolds, and 2D culture. Moreover, these cell lines were significantly more resistant to gemcitabine and doxorubicin chemotherapy treatments in the 3D models compared to 2D cultures, even after confirmed uptake by confocal microscopy. These results suggest that tissue-specific ECM provides the preserved native cues for primary and metastatic PDAC cells necessary for a more reliable in vitro cell culture.
Callous–Unemotional Traits and Intelligence in Children with Externalizing Behavioral Problems
Authors: Fantozzi Pamela , Muratori Pietro , Levantini Valentina , Mammarella Irene , Masi Gabriele , Milone Annarita , Petrucci Alessia , Ricci Federica , Tacchi Annalisa , Cristofani Chiara , Valente Elena
Published: November 2022

Research on the association between callous–unemotional (CU) traits and intelligence yielded contradictory results. Moreover, several previous studies focused on global intelligence scores or verbal vs. nonverbal/performance abilities usually evaluated with short/abbreviated instruments. The current study builds on these previous works and explores the link between CU traits and intelligence using the full version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—4th Edition (WISC-IV), which provides four different verbal and nonverbal abilities scores. This guarantees a more detailed evaluation of children’s intelligence and its relation to CU traits. The sample included children (N = 149; age 6–14 years old) with severe behavioral problems. Clinicians administered the WISC-IV, and parents completed questionnaires evaluating the child’s externalizing problems and CU traits. Findings showed that CU traits were associated with lower verbal comprehension scores after also controlling for gender, age, externalizing problems, and the other WISC-IV indexes. In addition, CU traits and externalizing problems did not interact in predicting the WISC-IV indexes, and there were no significant differences in the WISC-IV indexes between children with CU traits and high vs. low externalizing problems. The current study suggests the relevance of assessing and addressing verbal abilities in children with behavioral problems and CU traits.
Condylar Asymmetry in Children with Unilateral Posterior Crossbite Malocclusion: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tortarolo Alessandro , Rotolo Rossana , Nucci Ludovica , Tepedino Michele , Crincoli Vito , Piancino Maria Grazia
Published: November 2022

Unilateral posterior crossbite (UXB) is a common, severely asymmetric malocclusion, characterized by maxillary hypoplasia and masticatory dysfunction. The aim of this research is to evaluate the asymmetry of mandibular condyles and rami in children with UXB. This comparative cross-sectional study included 33 children with UXB (girls = 15, boys = 18; mean age ± SD = 8.0 ± 1.3 years.months]) and 33 age- and gender-matched controls (girls = 15, boys = 18; mean age ± SD = 8.4 ± 1.3 years.months]). Pre-treatment OPGs were analyzed by comparing the height of condyles and rami between the sides using the method by Habets et al. (1988); the result was considered significant if the degree of asymmetry was >6%. Children with UXB showed a significantly increased asymmetry of mandibular condyles (mean ± SD = 10.7% ± 9, p < 0.001), but not of rami (mean ± SD = 1.9% ± 2.3), compared to controls. The rami did not show significant asymmetry in either group. The presence of an increased condylar asymmetry index in a developing patient with unilateral posterior crossbite is a sign of altered skeletal growth and should be considered in the diagnostic process and treatment plan.
Factors Associated with Breastfeeding Initiation and Duration in Greece: Data from the Hellenic National Nutrition and Health Survey
Authors: Spyrakou Efthimia , Magriplis Emmanuella , Benetou Vassiliki , Zampelas Antonis
Published: November 2022

Despite its well-documented benefits, breastfeeding rates and duration worldwide do not meet the recommended goals set by the World Health Organization. Data on infant feeding, socio-demographic, lifestyle and perinatal factors were used from 490 mothers (and 958 children), participants at the Hellenic National Nutrition and Health Survey between 2013–2015. Clustered multiple logistic regression and multilevel mixed-model regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with breastfeeding initiation and duration, respectively. Maternal lower education [Odds Ratio (OR): 2.29, 95% Confidence intervals (95% CI): 1.30–4.04; p = 0.004], smoking during pregnancy (OR: 3.08, 95% CI: 1.64–5.77; p < 0.001), caesarean section (OR = 3.26, 95% CI: 1.83–5.83; p < 0.001), prematurity (OR = 2.74, 95% CI: 1.40–5.37; p = 0.003) and higher birth order (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04–1.62; p = 0.020) were associated with increased odds of not initiating breastfeeding. Living in rural areas [beta coefficient b = −27.93, p = 0.043], smoking during pregnancy (b = −64.47, p < 0.001), caesarean section (b = −28.76, p = 0.046) and prematurity (b = −46.67, p = 0.048) were significantly associated with shorter breastfeeding duration. Children born chronologically closer to the survey were more likely to breastfeed and for longer periods. Educational promotion and enhancement of breastfeeding awareness that account for maternal exposures are required. Prevention of prematurity and avoidance of unnecessary caesarean section is crucial, while additional breastfeeding support is needed when preterm birth occurs, or caesarean section cannot be avoided.
Comparative Analysis and Mitigation Strategy for the Urban Heat Island Intensity in Bari (Italy) and in Other Six European Cities
Authors: Sangiorgio Valentino , Bruno Silvana , Fiorito Francesco
Published: November 2022

The presence of higher air temperatures in the city in comparison with the surrounding rural areas is an alarming phenomenon named the urban heat island (UHI). In the last decade, the scientific community demonstrated the severity of the phenomenon amplified by the combination of heat waves. In southern Italy, the UHI is becoming increasingly serious due to the presence of a warming climate, extensive urbanization and an aging population. In order to extensively investigate such phenomenon in several cities, recent research calibrated quantitative indexes to forecast the maximum UHI intensity in urban districts by exploiting multicriteria approaches and open-source data. This paper proposes different mitigation strategy to mitigate the Urban Heat Island Intensity in Bari. Firstly, the research evaluates the absolute max UHI intensity of the 17 urban districts of Bari (a city in southern Italy, Puglia) by exploiting the recent index-based approach IUHII. Secondly, a comparative evaluation of seven European cities (Bari, Alicante, Madrid, Paris, Berlin, Milan and London) is achieved to point out the positives and negative aspects of the different urban districts. In total, the comparison required the analysis of 344 districts of 7 European cities: 17 districts in Bari (Italia); 9 districts in Alicante (Spain); 21 in Madrid (Spain); 80 in Paris (France); 96 in Berlin (Germany); 88 in Milan (Italy) and 33 in London (UK). Finally, the results emphasize some virtuous examples of UHII mitigation in the major European cities useful to draw inspiration for effective mitigation strategies suitable for the urban context of Bari.