bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marine Survival in the Mediterranean: A Pilot Study on the Cognitive and Cardiorespiratory Response to Sudden Cool Water Immersion
Authors: Buoite Stella Alex , Morrison Shawnda A.
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim: The Mediterranean is one of the major gateways of human migratory fluxes from Northern Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia to Europe. Sea accidents have become an urgent humanitarian crisis due to the high number of migrants on the move, but data on the physiological effects to sudden cool water immersion are not as extensive as cold-water studies. We wanted to evaluate to what extent cool water immersion (~18 °C) may detrimentally affect cognitive ability and cardiorespiratory strain compared to the more prevalent cold-water (<10–15 °C) studies. Methods: In this case, 10 active, healthy men participated in this study which consisted of completing one familiarization trial, and then a control (CON) or experimental (EXP) trial in a randomized, repeated-measures, cross-over fashion, separated by at least 7-days. Cognitive function was assessed via the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), a code substitution test, performed at baseline, then repeated in either a thermoneutral (~25 °C room air) dry environment, or when immersed to the neck in 18 °C water. Testing consisted of six “Step” time-blocks 45-s each, with a 5-s pause between each Step. Cardiorespiratory measures, continuously recorded, included heart rate (beats per minute), minute ventilation (V˙E, L∙min−1), oxygen consumption (V˙O2, L∙min−1), and respiratory frequency (fR, count∙min−1). Results: Initial responses to cool water (<2 min) found that participants performed ~11% worse on the code substitution test (p = 0.025), consumed 149% greater amounts of oxygen (CI: 5.1 to 9.1 L∙min−1, p < 0.0001) and experienced higher cardiovascular strain (HR CI: 13 to 38 beats per minute, p = 0.001) than during the control trial. Physiological strain was in-line to those observed in much colder water temperature. Conclusion: Sudden, cool water immersion also negatively affects cognitive function and cardiorespiratory strain, especially during the first two minutes of exposure. The magnitude increase in heart rate is strongly associated with poorer cognitive function, even in (relatively) warmer water consistent with temperatures found in the Mediterranean Sea environment.
Family Adjustment to Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gomes Pedro , Pietrabissa Giada , Silva Eunice R. , Silva João , Matos Paula Mena , Costa Maria Emília , Bertuzzi Vanessa , Silva Eliana , Neves Maria Carolina , Sales Célia M. D.
Published: January 2022

Hereditary cancer syndromes are inherited pathogenic genetic variants that significantly increase the risk of developing cancer. When individuals become aware of their increased probability of having cancer, the whole family is affected by this new reality and needs to adjust. However, adjustment to hereditary cancer syndromes has been mainly studied at an individual level, and research about familial adjustment remains dispersed and disorganized. To overcome this gap, this review aims to understand how families adjust to genetic testing and risk management, and to what extent the family’s adjustment influences the psychological response and risk management behaviors of mutation carriers. We conducted searches on the PubMed/Med Line, PsycInfo, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar databases and used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT-v2018) to assess the methodological quality of each selected study. Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria. Most results highlighted the interdependent nature of adjustment of pathogenic variant carriers and their families. The way carriers adjust to the syndrome is highly dependent on family functioning and related to how family members react to the new genetic information, particularly partners and siblings. Couples who share their worries and communicate openly about cancer risk present a better long-term adjustment than couples who use protective buffering (not talking about it to avoid disturbing the partner) or emotional distancing. Parents need help dealing with disclosing genetic information to their children. These findings reinforce the importance of adopting a family-centered approach in the context of genetic counseling and the necessity of involving family members in research.
The Effect of 6-Week Combined Balance and Plyometric Training on Dynamic Balance and Quickness Performance of Elite Badminton Players
Authors: Lu Zepeng , Zhou Limingfei , Gong Wangcheng , Chuang Samuel , Wang Shixian , Guo Zhenxiang , Bao Dapeng , Zhang Luyu , Zhou Junhong
Published: January 2022

The study aimed to investigate the effect of combined balance and plyometric training on dynamic balance and quickness performance of elite badminton athletes. Sixteen elite male badminton players volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to a balance-plyometric group (PB: n = 8) and plyometric group (PT: n = 8). The PB group performed balance combined with plyometric training three times a week over 6 weeks (40 min of plyometrics and 20 min of balance training); while the PT group undertook only plyometric training for the same period (3–4 sets × 8–12 reps for each exercise). Both groups were given the same technical training (badminton techniques for 6 days a week). The dynamic stability and quick movement ability were assessed at baseline and after the intervention by measuring the performance of dynamic posture stability test (DPSI and COP), T-running test and hexagon jump test. The results showed that compared to PT, PB induced significantly greater improvements in F-DPSI, L-DPSI (p = 0.003, 0.025, respectively), F-COPAP, F-COPML, F-COPPL, L-COPPL (p = 0.024, 0.002, 0.029, 0.043, respectively), T-running test and hexagon jump test (p < 0.001). The change in L-DPSI, L-COPAP, L-COPML did not differ between PB and PT (p > 0.907). The findings suggest that combined training holds great promise of improving the dynamic balance and quickness performance in elite badminton athletes.
Structural and Dynamic Insights into the W68L, L85P, and T87A Mutations of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Inducing Resistance to Pyrazinamide
Authors: Alatawi Eid A. , Alshabrmi Fahad M.
Published: January 2022

Tuberculosis (TB), the most frequent bacterium-mediated infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has been known to infect humans since ancient times. Although TB is common worldwide, the most recent report by the WHO (World Health Organization) listed the three countries of India, China, and Russia with 27%, 14%, and 8% of the global burden of TB, respectively. It has been reported that resistance to TB drugs, particularly by the pncA gene to the pyrazinamide drug due to mutations, significantly affects the effective treatment of TB. Understanding the mechanism of drug resistance using computational methods is of great interest to design effective TB treatment, exploring the structural features with these tools. Thus, keeping in view the importance of these methods, we employed state-of-the-art computational methods to study the mechanism of resistance caused by the W68L, L85P, and T87A mutations recently reported in 2021. We employed a molecular docking approach to predict the binding conformation and studied the dynamic properties of each complex using molecular dynamics simulation approaches. Our analysis revealed that compared to the wildtype, these three mutations altered the binding pattern and reduced the binding affinity. Moreover, the structural dynamic features also showed that these mutations significantly reduced the structural stability and packing, particularly by the W68L and L85P mutations. Moreover, principal component analysis, free energy landscape, and the binding free energy results revealed variation in the protein’s motion and the binding energy. The total binding free energy was for the wildtype −9.61 kcal/mol, W68L −7.57 kcal/mol, L85P −6.99 kcal/mol, and T87A −7.77 kcal/mol. Our findings can help to design a structure-based drug against the MDR (multiple drug-resistant) TB.
The Importance of Family and School Protective Factors in Preventing the Risk Behaviors of Youth
Authors: Mihić Josipa , Skinner Martie , Novak Miranda , Ferić Martina , Kranželić Valentina
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to examine cross-sectional associations of protective factors within a family and school context with adolescent risk behaviors. The study was conducted among adolescents (n = 9682) from five cities in Croatia. Mean age of participants was 16.2 years (SD = 1.2), and 52.5% were female. Multigroup structural equation modeling was used to examine relations between school attachment, school commitment, family communication, and family satisfaction with gambling, substance use, violence, and sexual risk behavior. Data analyses were conducted in two sets, the first using the full sample, and the second using a subsample (excluding Zagreb) for which there was data on sexual risk behavior. In the first model, school attachment was negatively associated with gambling and violence, while school commitment was negatively associated with students’ gambling, substance use, and violence. Gambling was also associated with family satisfaction in this model. Results from the subsample model were similar with regards to school and family factors associated with gambling, substance use, and violence, with a few exceptions. In this model, family protective factors were found not to be significantly related with any risk behavior. These study results emphasize the importance of strengthening school protective factors, school attachment, and school commitment in preventing risk behaviors in adolescents.
Influencing Mechanism and Difference of Poultry Farmers’ Willingness and Behavior in Breeding Scale—Evidence from Jianghan Plain, China
Authors: Han Yanqi , Lyu Hui , Cheng Shixiong , He Yuhang
Published: January 2022

This paper uses the Heckprobit two-stage econometric model to explore the influence mechanism of poultry farmers’ willingness and behavior regarding scale based on 269 household survey data in the hinterland of Jianghan Plain, China. The results show that (1) family endowments, social capital, economic capital, product market prediction, and major public emergencies are the main influencing factors for farmers to engage in poultry farming; (2) economic capital, policy guarantees, product market prediction, and major public emergencies are the main factors that influence the changes in farmers’ poultry breeding scale; and (3) sampled poultry farmers are inconsistent between their breeding willingness and breeding behavior in poultry decision-making and the factors that affect the willingness and behavior are varied. Based on these findings, this paper suggests that the government should pay attention to inducing corresponding assistance and subsidy policies, formulating financial support countermeasures, organizing training and exchange meetings of the breeding industry, and promoting poultry market informatization to help the poultry industry prosper.
Correction: Chang et al. Decursinol Angelate Arrest Melanoma Cell Proliferation by Initiating Cell Death and Tumor Shrinkage via Induction of Apoptosis. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22, 4096
Authors: Chang Sukkum Ngullie , Khan Imran , Kim Chang Geon , Park Seon Min , Choi Dong Kyu , Lee Heejin , Hwang Buyng Su , Kang Sun Chul , Park Jae Gyu
Published: January 2022

The author wishes to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Docking and Molecular Dynamic of Microalgae Compounds as Potential Inhibitors of Beta-Lactamase
Authors: Pestana-Nobles Roberto , Aranguren-Díaz Yani , Machado-Sierra Elwi , Yosa Juvenal , Galan-Freyle Nataly J. , Sepulveda-Montaño Laura X. , Kuroda Daniel G. , Pacheco-Londoño Leonardo C.
Published: January 2022

Bacterial resistance is responsible for a wide variety of health problems, both in children and adults. The persistence of symptoms and infections are mainly treated with β-lactam antibiotics. The increasing resistance to those antibiotics by bacterial pathogens generated the emergence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), an actual public health problem. This is due to rapid mutations of bacteria when exposed to antibiotics. In this case, β-lactamases are enzymes used by bacteria to hydrolyze the beta-lactam rings present in the antibiotics. Therefore, it was necessary to explore novel molecules as potential β-lactamases inhibitors to find antibacterial compounds against infection caused by ESBLs. A computational methodology based on molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations was used to find new microalgae metabolites inhibitors of β-lactamase. Six 3D β-lactamase proteins were selected, and the molecular docking revealed that the metabolites belonging to the same structural families, such as phenylacridine (4-Ph), quercetin (Qn), and cryptophycin (Cryp), exhibit a better binding score and binding energy than commercial clinical medicine β-lactamase inhibitors, such as clavulanic acid, sulbactam, and tazobactam. These results indicate that 4-Ph, Qn, and Cryp molecules, homologous from microalgae metabolites, could be used, likely as novel β-lactamase inhibitors or as structural templates for new in-silico pharmaceutical designs, with the possibility of combatting β-lactam resistance
K143R Amino Acid Substitution in 14-α-Demethylase (Erg11p) Changes Plasma Membrane and Cell Wall Structure of Candida albicans
Authors: Derkacz Daria , Bernat Przemysław , Krasowska Anna
Published: January 2022

The opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans is responsible for life-threating infections in immunocompromised individuals. Azoles and polyenes are two of the most commonly used antifungals and target the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway or ergosterol itself. A limited number of clinically employed antifungals correspond to the development of resistance mechanisms. One resistance mechanism observed in clinical isolates of azole-resistant C. albicans is the introduction of point mutations in the ERG11 gene, which encodes a key enzyme (lanosterol 14-α-demethylase) on the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. Here, we demonstrate that a point mutation K143R in ERG11 (C. albicans ERG11K143R/K143R) contributes not only to azole resistance, but causes increased gene expression. Overexpression of ERG11 results in increased ergosterol content and a significant reduction in plasma membrane fluidity. Simultaneously, the same point mutation caused cell wall remodeling. This could be facilitated by the unmasking of chitin and β-glucan on the fungal cell surface, which can lead to recognition of the highly immunogenic β-glucan, triggering a stronger immunological reaction. For the first time, we report that a frequently occurring azole-resistance strategy makes C. albicans less susceptible to azole treatment while, at the same time, affects its cell wall architecture, potentially leading to exposure of the pathogen to a more effective host immune response.
Molecular Mechanisms of Malignant Transformation of Oral Submucous Fibrosis by Different Betel Quid Constituents—Does Fibroblast Senescence Play a Role?
Authors: Zhang Pangzhen , Chua Nathaniel Quan En , Dang Simon , Davis Ashleigh , Chong Kah Wee , Prime Stephen S. , Cirillo Nicola
Published: January 2022

Betel quid (BQ) is a package of mixed constituents that is chewed by more than 600 million people worldwide, particularly in Asia. The formulation of BQ depends on a variety of factors but typically includes areca nut, betel leaf, and slaked lime and may or may not contain tobacco. BQ chewing is strongly associated with the development of potentially malignant and malignant diseases of the mouth such as oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), respectively. We have shown recently that the constituents of BQ vary geographically and that the capacity to induce disease reflects the distinct chemical composition of the BQ. In this review, we examined the diverse chemical constituents of BQ and their putative role in oral carcinogenesis. Four major areca alkaloids—arecoline, arecaidine, guvacoline and guvacine—together with the polyphenols, were identified as being potentially involved in oral carcinogenesis. Further, we propose that fibroblast senescence, which is induced by certain BQ components, may be a key driver of tumour progression in OSMF and OSCC. Our study emphasizes that the characterization of the detrimental or protective effects of specific BQ ingredients may facilitate the development of targeted BQ formulations to prevent and/or treat potentially malignant oral disorders and oral cancer in BQ users.
Upregulation of miR-34a-5p, miR-20a-3p and miR-29a-3p by Onconase in A375 Melanoma Cells Correlates with the Downregulation of Specific Onco-Proteins
Authors: De Tomi Elisa , Campagnari Rachele , Orlandi Elisa , Cardile Alessia , Zanrè Valentina , Menegazzi Marta , Gomez-Lira Macarena , Gotte Giovanni
Published: January 2022

Onconase (ONC) is an amphibian secretory ribonuclease displaying cytostatic and cytotoxic activities against many mammalian tumors, including melanoma. ONC principally damages tRNA species, but also other non-coding RNAs, although its precise targets are not known. We investigated the ONC ability to modulate the expression of 16 onco-suppressor microRNAs (miRNAs) in the A375 BRAF-mutated melanoma cell line. RT-PCR and immunoblots were used to measure the expression levels of miRNAs and their regulated proteins, respectively. In silico study was carried out to verify the relations between miRNAs and their mRNA targets. A375 cell transfection with miR-20a-3p and miR-34a-5p mimics or inhibitors was performed. The onco-suppressors miR-20a-3p, miR-29a-3p and miR-34a-5p were highly expressed in 48-h ONC-treated A375 cells. The cytostatic effect of ONC in A375 cells was mechanistically explained by the sharp inhibition of cyclins D1 and A2 expression level, as well as by downregulation of retinoblastoma protein and cyclin-dependent-kinase-2 activities. Remarkably, the expression of kinases ERK1/2 and Akt, as well as of the hypoxia inducible factor-1α, was inhibited by ONC. All these proteins control pro-survival pathways. Finally, many crucial proteins involved in migration, invasion and metastatic potential were downregulated by ONC. Results obtained from transfection of miR-20a-3p and miR-34a-5p inhibitors in the presence of ONC show that these miRNAs may participate in the antitumor effects of ONC in the A375 cell line. In conclusion, we identified many intracellular downregulated proteins involved in melanoma cell proliferation, metabolism and progression. All mRNAs coding these proteins may be targets of miR-20a-3p, miR-29a-3p and/or miR-34a-5p, which are in turn upregulated by ONC. Data suggest that several known ONC anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic activities in A375 melanoma cells might depend on the upregulation of onco-suppressor miRNAs. Notably, miRNAs stability depends on the upstream regulation by long-non-coding-RNAs or circular-RNAs that can, in turn, be damaged by ONC ribonucleolytic activity.
The Roles of Two CNG Channels in the Regulation of Ascidian Sperm Chemotaxis
Authors: Shiba Kogiku , Inaba Kazuo
Published: January 2022

Spermatozoa sense and respond to their environmental signals to ensure fertilization success. Reception and transduction of signals are reflected rapidly in sperm flagellar waveforms and swimming behavior. In the ascidian Ciona intestinalis (type A; also called C. robusta), an egg-derived sulfated steroid called SAAF (sperm activating and attracting factor), induces both sperm motility activation and chemotaxis. Two types of CNG (cyclic nucleotide-gated) channels, Ci-tetra KCNG (tetrameric, cyclic nucleotide-gated, K+-selective) and Ci-HCN (hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated), are highly expressed in Ciona testis from the comprehensive gene expression analysis. To elucidate the sperm signaling pathway to regulate flagellar motility, we focus on the role of CNG channels. In this study, the immunochemical analysis revealed that both CNG channels are expressed in Ciona sperm and localized to sperm flagella. Sperm motility analysis and Ca2+ imaging during chemotaxis showed that CNG channel inhibition affected the changes in flagellar waveforms and Ca2+ efflux needed for the chemotactic turn. These results suggest that CNG channels in Ciona sperm play a vital role in regulating sperm motility and intracellular Ca2+ regulation during chemotaxis.
Nitric Oxide Signaling and Its Association with Ubiquitin-Mediated Proteasomal Degradation in Plants
Authors: Pande Anjali , Mun Bong-Gyu , Khan Murtaza , Rahim Waqas , Lee Da-Sol , Lee Geun-Mo , Al Azawi Tiba Nazar Ibrahim , Hussain Adil , Yun Byung-Wook
Published: January 2022

Nitric oxide (NO) is a versatile signaling molecule with diverse roles in plant biology. The NO-mediated signaling mechanism includes post-translational modifications (PTMs) of target proteins. There exists a close link between NO-mediated PTMs and the proteasomal degradation of proteins via ubiquitylation. In some cases, ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation of target proteins is followed by an NO-mediated post-translational modification on them, while in other cases NO-mediated PTMs can regulate the ubiquitylation of the components of ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal machinery for promoting their activity. Another pathway that links NO signaling with the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of proteins is the N-degron pathway. Overall, these mechanisms reflect an important mechanism of NO signal perception and transduction that reflect a close association of NO signaling with proteasomal degradation via ubiquitylation. Therefore, this review provides insight into those pathways that link NO-PTMs with ubiquitylation.
Impact of COVID-19-Related Lockdown on Delivery and Perinatal Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Quibel Thibaud , Winer Norbert , Bussières Laurence , Vayssière Christophe , Deruelle Philippe , Defrance Manon , Rozenberg Patrick , Bouyer Jean , Dupuis Ninon , Renaudin Benoit , Dugave Louise , Banaszkiewicz Nathalie , Garabedian Charles , Ville Yves
Published: January 2022

Objective: The magnitude and direction of effects on pregnancy outcomes of the lockdown imposed during COVID-19 have been uncertain and debated. Therefore, we aimed to quantify delivery and perinatal outcomes during the first nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic compared with the same durations of time for the pre- and post-lockdown periods. Study design: This was a retrospective cohort study of six university hospital maternity units distributed across France, each of which serves as the obstetric care referral unit within its respective perinatal network. Maternal and perinatal outcomes were compared between the lockdown period and same-duration (i.e., 55-day) periods before and after the 2020 lockdown (pre-lockdown: 22 January–16 March; lockdown: 17 March–10 May; post-lockdown: 11 May–4 July). We compared the overall rates of Caesarean delivery (CD), pre-labor CD, labor induction, operative vaginal delivery, severe postpartum hemorrhage (≥1 L), severe perineal tear, maternal transfusion, and neonatal mortality and morbidity (1- and 5-min Apgar scores < 7), hypoxia and anoxia (umbilical arterial pH < 7.20 or <7.10, respectively), and admission to a neonatal intensive care unit before discharge. Adjusted odds ratios were estimated using logistic regression, controlling for region of birth, maternal age category, multiparity, multiple pregnancies, diabetes, and hypertensive disorders. Results: The study sample consisted of 11,929 women who delivered consecutively at one of the six maternity units studied (4093 pre-lockdown, 3829 during lockdown, and 4007 post-lockdown) and their 12,179 neonates (4169 pre-lockdown, 3905 during lockdown, and 4105 post-lockdown). The maternal and obstetric characteristics of the women delivering during the lockdown period were alike those delivering pre- and post-lockdown on maternal age, parity, body mass index, rate of complication by hypertensive disorders or insulin-treated diabetes, and gestational age at delivery. Overall CD rates were similar during the three periods (23.6%, 24.8%, and 24.3% pre-lockdown, lockdown, and post-lockdown, respectively) and no outcome differed significantly during lockdown compared to pre- and post-lockdown. These findings were consistent across maternity units. Conclusion: The maternal and perinatal outcomes are reassuring regarding the performance of the health-care system during the COVID-19 lockdown studied. Such information is crucial, because additional COVID-19-related lockdowns might still be needed. They are also instructive regarding potential future pandemics.
Ankle Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Versus Non-Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Patients with Arthralgia
Authors: Ostrowska Monika , Michalski Emil , Gietka Piotr , Mańczak Małgorzata , Posadzy Magdalena , Sudoł-Szopińska Iwona
Published: January 2022

This retrospective case–control study aimed to evaluate whether Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) enables differentiation of ankle arthritis in Juvenile Idiopathic Afrthritis JIA from ankle arthralgia of unknown aetiology in patients clinically suspected of JIA. Forty-four children, at ages 5–16, who underwent MRI of the ankle from January 2016 to March 2021 for clinically suspected active ankle arthritis in the course of JIA were included. MRI findings in both groups—patients with the final diagnosis of JIA and without final diagnosis of JIA—were compared and scored. The sum of the scores of 22 ankle lesions in an individual patient (active, destructive and developmental), so-called the MRI summarized score, was calculated and tested in terms of the most optimal diagnosis of JIA. Interobserver agreement was calculated. Inflammatory features were seen on MRI in 38 out of all the included patients (86%). The most common lesions in both groups were effusion in the tibio-talar joint (68% in JIA and 64% in the arthralgia group) and effusion in subtalar joint (64% in JIA vs. 59% in the arthralgia group). In general, more lesions were identified in the JIA group than in non-JIA. However, only tenosynovitis was significantly more common in the JIA vs. non-JIA group (p = 0.031). The MRI summarized score did not allow for discrimination between ankle arthritis in JIA from non-JIA patients; the best levels of sensitivity (32%), specificity (91%), positive predictive value PPV (78%) and negative predictive value NPV (57%) were achieved only at the cut-off point of 10.
A Comprehensive Approach to Clinical Staging of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Adamczyk Przemysław , Pobłocki Paweł , Kadlubowski Mateusz , Ostrowski Adam , Wróbel Andrzej , Mikołajczak Witold , Adamowicz Jan , Drewa Tomasz , Juszczak Kajetan
Published: January 2022

Background: A significant number of patients with advanced urothelial cell carcinoma are under- or over-staged. Implementation of clinical variables could be useful for improving the accuracy of clinical staging. Aim: To explore the differences between clinical and pathological diagnosis in patients with UCC, and to identify clinical variables that might play a role in under- or overstating. Materials: A total of 553 patients after radical cystectomy were included in the analysis. Clinical stage of the disease was diagnosed according to CT or MRI in relation to clinical data. Results: Higher clinical stage correlated with a higher pathological stage (p < 0.00005), but in 306 patients did not correspond (142 patients were under-staged and 164 over-staged). Over half (54.2%) of the patients staged as cT1–cT2 were misdiagnosed: 137 patients were under-staged and 133 over-staged. Hydronephrosis was associated with a higher pathological stage (p < 0.000005), mostly pT3–4 (45.13% had pT4 disease) and higher risk of nodal metastasis (p = 0.0028). The highest percentage of PSM was found in patients with pT4 (33.12%). Conclusions: Clinical staging of bladder cancer is poorly executed, with one third of patients under-staged and one third over-staged. To improve accuracy, we recommend a multimodal approach, combining histopathological evaluation with results of imaging studies.
Usefulness of Dermoscopy in Localized Scleroderma (LoS, Morphea) Diagnosis and Assessment-Monocentric Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Szczepanik-Kułak Paulina , Michalak-Stoma Anna , Krasowska Dorota
Published: January 2022

Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma (LoS), is a chronic autoimmune disease of the connective tissue. The clinical picture of LoS distinguishes between active and inactive lesions. Sometimes the clinical findings are challenging to identify, and therefore, the need for additional methods is emphasized. Our study aimed to demonstrate the characteristic dermoscopic features in morphea skin lesions, focusing on demonstrating features in active and inactive lesions. In our patients (n = 31) with histopathologically proven LoS, we performed clinical evaluation of lesions (n = 162): active/inactive and according to both disease activity (modified localized scleroderma severity index, mLoSSI) and damage (localized scleroderma skin damage index, LoSDI) parameters. In addition, we took into account compression locations to determine whether skin trauma, a known etiopathogenetic factor in LoS, affects the dermoscopic pattern of the lesions. We performed a dermoscopy of the lesions, categorizing the images according to the severity within the observed field. We showed that within the active lesions (clinically and with high mLoSSI), white clouds and linear branching vessels had the highest severity. These features decreased within the observed field in inactive lesions and with high LoSDI. Brownish structureless areas were most intense in inactive lesions with high LoSDI. Erythematous areas, linear branching vessels, dotted vessels, and crystalline structures were statistically significant for pressure locations. We have shown dermoscopy is a valuable tool to assess the activity or inactivity of lesions, which translates into appropriate therapeutic decisions and the possibility of monitoring the patient during and after therapy for possible relapse.
Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Risk of Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hwang Soo Young , Kim Jong Yeob , Lee Hye Sun , Lee Sujee , Kim Dayeong , Kim Subin , Hyun Jong Hoon , Shin Jae Il , Lee Kyoung Hwa , Han Sang Hoon , Song Young Goo
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a known risk factor for lung cancer. However, a detailed analysis of lung cancer type, age, sex, smoking, and TB burden associated with geographic and socioeconomic status has not been performed previously. We systematically appraised relevant observational studies reporting an association between pulmonary TB and lung cancer. All studies were included in the primary analysis, and studies that used robust TB diagnostic methods, such as validated medical diagnostic codes, were included in the secondary analysis. Thirty-two articles were included. The association between the history of pulmonary TB and diagnosis of lung cancer was statistically significant (OR 2.09, 95% CI: 1.62–2.69, p < 0.001). There was a high heterogeneity (I2 = 95%), without any publication bias. The analysis indicated a high association in advanced articles describing stringent pulmonary TB diagnosis (OR 2.26, 95% CI: 1.29–3.94, p = 0.004). The subgroup analyses suggested a significant association in countries with medium or high TB burdens, from East Asia and the Pacific region, and upper-middle income countries. Heterogeneity within the subgroups remained high in a majority of the subgroup analyses. A meta-regression analysis revealed that younger patients showed a significantly higher association between TB and lung cancer (regression coefficient = 0.949, p < 0.001). The history of pulmonary TB is an independent risk factor for lung cancer, especially in younger patients diagnosed with pulmonary TB. Clinicians should be aware of this association while treating young patients with a history of pulmonary TB.
Pain Burden in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome following Mild COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Bileviciute-Ljungar Indre , Norrefalk Jan-Rickard , Borg Kristian
Published: January 2022

The global pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 has affected several hundred million people, and many infected people have suffered from a milder initial infection but have never fully recovered. This observational study investigates the pain burden in sufferers of post-COVID-19 syndrome after a milder initial infection. One hundred post-COVID-19 patients filled out questionnaires regarding sociodemographic data, previous comorbidities, present pharmacological treatment, pain intensity and pain localisation. Health-related quality of life, fatigue, emotional status, and insomnia were measured by validated questionnaires. Multiple post-COVID-19 symptoms, including post-exertional malaise, were evaluated by a symptom questionnaire. Among the 100 participants (mean age 44.5 years), 82% were women, 61% had higher education, and 56% were working full or part time. Nine participants reported previous pain or inflammatory conditions. Among the most painful sites were the head/face, chest, lower extremities, and migrating sites. Generalised pain was self-reported by 75 participants and was estimated in 50 participants. Diagnosis of fibromyalgia according to the 2016 criteria was suspected in 40 participants. Subgroup analyses indicated that comorbidities might play a role in the development of pain. In conclusion, a major part of sufferers from post-COVID-19 syndrome develop pain, and in addition to its many disabling symptoms, there is an urgent need for pain management in post-COVID-19 syndrome.
A Novel Fault Identification Method Using Modified Morphological Denoising via Structuring Element Optimization for Transmission Systems of Shipborne Antennas
Authors: Li Zipeng , Yang Kunde , Chen Jinglong , Duan Shunli
Published: January 2022

Unlike common rotating machines, shipborne antennas always work under variable loads and suffer from extreme ocean conditions, which makes monitoring their condition and early fault identification necessary and challenging. However, extracting weak fault characteristics from vibration signals accurately and efficiently is difficult because of multi-modulation phenomenon and heavy noise. Therefore, an adaptive denoising method based on morphological filtering via structuring element optimization is proposed in this paper. The proposed method mainly includes two aspects: an adaptive spectrum segmentation algorithm via scale expression and a criterion based on the characteristic energy ratio for structuring element optimization. Experimental signals and a set of comparisons verify the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. The proposed method is also applied to identify an early antenna drivetrain fault in a real case, showing its superiority and effectiveness.
Importance of Land in SDG Policy Instruments: A Study of ASEAN Developing Countries
Authors: Tirumala Raghu Dharmapuri , Tiwari Piyush
Published: January 2022

Allocating land-related social, economic, and legal benefits to people is crucial for meeting the commitments made by various countries for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Economic growth in developing countries in the Southeast Asian region is very rapid, requiring primary resources such as land, which poses challenges for implementing nationally determined commitments towards SDGs. This paper quantitatively compares the relevant policy instruments issued by the key ASEAN countries to analyze the importance of land provision in achieving the specific SDGs. Using content analysis to formulate a framework for comparing the various policy instruments and strategic plans, the article identifies the importance of land use in various policy instruments focused on achieving SDGs. Most countries use authoritative instruments to incorporate land-related aspects. The use of the symbolic, capacity-building, and incentive instruments is relatively lesser. Many countries give prominence to land for providing shelter or as an economic resource, while land use for managing gender equality is negligible. Policy makers could incorporate a more balanced mix of instruments and those addressing different dimensions of land use while redesigning their policy or strategy documents to implement SDGs.
Pathogenesis of Two Faces of DVT: New Identity of Venous Thromboembolism as Combined Micro-Macrothrombosis via Unifying Mechanism Based on “Two-Path Unifying Theory” of Hemostasis and “Two-Activation Theory of the Endothelium”
Authors: Chang Jae C.
Published: January 2022

Venous thrombosis includes deep venous thrombosis (DVT), venous thromboembolism (VTE), venous microthrombosis and others. Still, the pathogenesis of each venous thrombosis is not clearly established. Currently, isolated distal DVT and multiple proximal/central DVT are considered to be the same macrothrombotic disease affecting the venous system but with varying degree of clinical expression related to its localization and severity. The genesis of two phenotypes of DVT differing in clinical features and prognostic outcome can be identified by their unique hemostatic mechanisms. Two recently proposed hemostatic theories in vivo have clearly defined the character between “microthrombi” and “macrothrombus” in the vascular system. Phenotypic expression of thrombosis depends upon two major variables: (1) depth of vascular wall damage and (2) extent of the injury affecting the vascular tree system. Vascular wall injury limited to endothelial cells (ECs) in sepsis produces “disseminated” microthrombi, but intravascular injury due to trauma extending from ECs to subendothelial tissue (SET) produces “local” macrothrombus. Pathogen-induced sepsis activates the complement system leading to generalized endotheliopathy, which releases ultra large von Willebrand factor (ULVWF) multimers from ECs and promotes ULVWF path of hemostasis. In the venous system, the activated ULVWF path initiates microthrombogenesis to form platelet-ULVWF complexes, which become “microthrombi strings” that produce venous endotheliopathy-associated vascular microthrombotic disease (vEA-VMTD) and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)-like syndrome. In the arterial system, endotheliopathy produces arterial EA-VMTD (aEA-VMTD) with “life-threatening” thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)-like syndrome. Typically, vEA-VMTD is “silent” unless complicated by additional local venous vascular injury. A local venous vessel trauma without sepsis produces localized macrothrombosis due to activated ULVWF and tissue factor (TF) paths from damaged ECs and SET, which causes distal DVT with good prognosis. However, if a septic patient with “silent” vEA-VMTD is complicated by additional vascular injury from in-hospital vascular accesses, “venous combined micro-macrothrombosis” may develop as VTE via the unifying mechanism of the “two-path unifying theory” of hemostasis. This paradigm shifting pathogenetic difference between distal DVT and proximal/central DVT calls for a reassessment of current therapeutic approaches.
Prediction of Kerf Width and Surface Roughness of Al6351 Based Composite in Wire-Cut Electric Discharge Machining Using Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Sree Ram Hariharan , Uthayakumar Marimuthu , Suresh Kumar Shanmugam , Thirumalai Kumaran Sundaresan , Azzopardi Brian , Korniejenko Kinga
Published: January 2022

The machining of composite materials has been an area of intense research for the past couple of decades due to its wide range of applications, from automobiles to air crafts or from boats to nuclear systems. Non-conventional machining, especially electric discharge machining (EDM), is found to be a good machining option for meeting the required outputs. To overcome the challenges of machining complex shapes, wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) was developed. Al6351 composites was observed to be extensively used in nuclear applications. Therefore, identifying the kerf width and surface roughness are important criteria for the dimensional accuracy of the final product. The present work aims at predicting the behavior of the two major machining parameters which are kerf width and surface roughness of Al6351 composites in wire EDM by creating a mathematical model using ANOVA for different combinations of the reinforcements and comparing the variations in the coefficients for different combinations of reinforcements. The developed model has been validated by conducting similar set of experiments in Al6351-5% SiC-1% B4C hybrid composite. From the work, it was identified that pulse on time and current are the major contributing factor for kerf width and wire feed rate was observed to be contributing to the surface roughness. The validation results show an average variation of 8.17% for kerf width and 11.27% for surface roughness. The work can be successfully utilized for prediction of the kerf width and surface roughness of the composites manufactured with Al6351 as the base matrix material.
Concentric Scanning Strategies for Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Porosity Distribution in Practical Geometries
Authors: Englert Lukas , Schulze Volker , Dietrich Stefan
Published: January 2022

Besides the optimisation of process parameters such as laser power or scan speed, the choice of the scan path represents a possibility to optimise the laser powder bed fusion process even further. The usual hatching strategy creates a homogeneous microstructure but makes it necessary to switch the laser off and on after each scan vector, which can slow down the fabrication. Moreover, the end of each scan vector is a location susceptible to the creation of keyhole pores. In this work, these disadvantages were meant to be avoided by using scan strategies that consist of longer paths and thus less end of track points. To this end, an open-source tool to tailor the LPBF G-code to geometric part features and advanced path configurations was developed and embedded into a co-visualization platform. With this tool, specimens built with four different types of paths were fabricated and the effect of these alternative scan strategies on pore distributions and path neighbourhood was investigated using micro-computed tomography. In the examined example geometry, a spiral scan pattern reduced the distance the laser had to jump between scanning by 78%. However, with the alternative path patterns, the defect architecture was strongly dependant on the part geometry and increased the overall porosity to 0.42%. Respective alleviation approaches are therefore necessary and are discussed in the remainder of this work.
Enhancement of Vancomycin Potential against Pathogenic Bacterial Strains via Gold Nano-Formulations: A Nano-Antibiotic Approach
Authors: Hagbani Turki Al , Yadav Hemant , Moin Afrasim , Lila Amr Selim Abu , Mehmood Khalid , Alshammari Farhan , Khan Salman , Khafagy El-Sayed , Hussain Talib , Rizvi Syed Mohd Danish , Abdallah Marwa H.
Published: January 2022

The remarkable rise of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic bacteria poses a significant threat to human health. Nanoparticles (NPs) have recently emerged as novel strategies for conquering fatal bacterial diseases. Furthermore, antibiotic-functionalized metallic NPs represent a viable nano-platform for combating bacterial resistance. In this study, we present the use of vancomycin-functionalized gold nanoparticles (V-GNPs) to battle pathogenic bacterial strains. A facile one-pot method was adopted to synthesize vancomycin-loaded GNPs in which the reducing properties of vancomycin were exploited to produce V-GNPs from gold ions. UV–Visible spectroscopy verified the production of V-GNPs via the existence of a surface plasmon resonance peak at 524 nm, whereas transmission electron microscopy depicted a size of ~24 nm. Further, dynamic light scattering (DLS) estimated the hydrodynamic diameter as 77 nm. The stability of V-GNPs was investigated using zeta-potential measurements, and the zeta potential of V-GNPs was found to be −18 mV. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the efficient loading of vancomycin onto GNP surfaces; however, the loading efficiency of vancomycin onto V-GNPs was 86.2%. Finally, in vitro antibacterial studies revealed that V-GNPs were much more effective, even at lower concentrations, than pure vancomycin. The observed antibacterial activities of V-GNPs were 1.4-, 1.6-, 1.8-, and 1.6-fold higher against Gram-negative Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, compared to pure vancomycin. Collectively, V-GNPs represented a more viable alternative to pure vancomycin, even at a lower antibiotic dose, in conquering pathogenic bacteria.
The Durability of Recycled Fine Aggregate Concrete: A Review
Authors: Bu Changming , Liu Lei , Lu Xinyu , Zhu Dongxu , Sun Yi , Yu Linwen , OuYang Yuhui , Cao Xuemei , Wei Qike
Published: January 2022

With the rapid development of urbanization, many new buildings are erected, and old ones are demolished and/or recycled. Thus, the reuse of building materials and improvements in reuse efficiency have become hot research topics. In recent years, scholars around the world have worked on improving recycle aggregates in concrete and broadening the scope of applications of recycled concrete. This paper reviews the findings of research on the effects of recycled fine aggregates (RFAs) on the permeability, drying shrinkage, carbonation, chloride ion penetration, acid resistance, and freeze–thaw resistance of concrete. The results show that the content of old mortar and the quality of recycled concrete are closely related to the durability of prepared RFA concrete. For example, the drying shrinkage value with a 100% RFA replacement rate is twice that of normal concrete, and the depth of carbonation increases by approximately 110%. Moreover, the durability of RFA concrete decreases as the RFA replacement rate and the water–cement ratio improve. Fortunately, the use of zeolite materials such as fly ash, silica fume, and meta kaolin as surface coatings for RFAs or as external admixtures for RFA concrete had a positive effect on durability. Furthermore, the proper mixing methods and/or recycled aggregates with optimized moisture content can further improve the durability of RFA concrete.
Use of Arc Furnace Slag and Ceramic Sludge for the Production of Lightweight and Highly Porous Ceramic Materials
Authors: Khater Gamal A. , Nabawy Bassem S. , El-Kheshen Amany A. , Abdel Latif Manal Abdel-Baki , Farag Mohammad M.
Published: January 2022

The utility of recycling some intensive industries’ waste materials for producing cellular porous ceramic is the leading aim of this study. To achieve this purpose, ceramic samples were prepared utilizing both arc furnace slag (AFS) and ceramic sludge, without any addition of pure chemicals, at 1100 °C. A series of nine samples was prepared via increasing AFS percentage over sludge percentage by 10 wt.% intervals, reaching 10 wt.% sludge and 90 wt.% AFS contents in the ninth and last batch. The oxide constituents of waste materials were analyzed using XRF. All synthesized samples were investigated using XRD to detect the precipitated minerals. The developed phases were β-wollastonite, quartz, gehlenite, parawollastonite and fayalite. The formed crystalline phases were changed depending on the CaO/SiO2 ratio in the batch composition. Sample morphology was investigated via scanning electron microscope to identify the porosity of the prepared ceramics. Porosity, density and electrical properties were measured; it was found that all these properties were dependent on the composition of starting materials and formed phases. When increasing CaO and Al2O3 contents, porosity values increased, while increases in MgO and Fe2O3 caused a decrease in porosity and increases in dielectric constant and electric conductivity. Sintering of selected samples at different temperatures caused formation of two polymorphic structures of wollastonite, either β-wollastonite (unstable) or parawollastonite (stable). β-wollastonite transformed into parawollastonite at elevated temperatures. When increasing the sintering temperature to 1150 °C, a small amount of fayalite phase (Fe2SiO4) was formed. It was noticed that the dielectric measurements of the selected sintered samples at 1100 °C were lower than those recorded when sintering temperatures were 1050 °C or 1150 °C.