bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Site-Specific RNA Editing of Stop Mutations in the CFTR mRNA of Human Bronchial Cultured Cells
Authors: Chiavetta Roberta F. , Titoli Simona , Barra Viviana , Cancemi Patrizia , Melfi Raffaella , Di Leonardo Aldo
Published: June 2023

It is reported that about 10% of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients worldwide have nonsense (stop) mutations in the CFTR gene, which cause the premature termination of CFTR protein synthesis, leading to a truncated and non-functional protein. To address this issue, we investigated the possibility of rescuing the CFTR nonsense mutation (UGA) by sequence-specific RNA editing in CFTR mutant CFF-16HBEge, W1282X, and G542X human bronchial cells. We used two different base editor tools that take advantage of ADAR enzymes (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA) to edit adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) within the mRNA: the REPAIRv2 (RNA Editing for Programmable A to I Replacement, version 2) and the minixABE (A to I Base Editor). Immunofluorescence experiments show that both approaches were able to recover the CFTR protein in the CFTR mutant cells. In addition, RT-qPCR confirmed the rescue of the CFTR full transcript. These findings suggest that site-specific RNA editing may efficiently correct the UGA premature stop codon in the CFTR transcript in CFF-16HBEge, W1282X, and G542X cells. Thus, this approach, which is safer than acting directly on the mutated DNA, opens up new therapeutic possibilities for CF patients with nonsense mutations.
Transcription Pattern of Neurotrophic Factors and Their Receptors in Adult Zebrafish Spinal Cord
Authors: Cacialli Pietro , Ricci Serena , Lazzari Maurizio , Milani Liliana , Franceschini Valeria
Published: June 2023

In vertebrates, neurotrophins and their receptors play a fundamental role in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Several studies reported that each neurotrophin/receptor signalling pathway can perform various functions during axon development, neuronal growth, and plasticity. Previous investigations in some fish species have identified neurotrophins and their receptors in the spinal cord under physiological conditions and after injuries, highlighting their potential role during regeneration. In our study, for the first time, we used an excellent animal model, the zebrafish (Danio rerio), to compare the mRNA localization patterns of neurotrophins and receptors in the spinal cord. We quantified the levels of mRNA using qPCR, and identified the transcription pattern of each neurotrophin/receptor pathway via in situ hybridization. Our data show that ngf/trka are the most transcribed members in the adult zebrafish spinal cord.
Meta-Analysis of Mechano-Sensitive Ion Channels in Human Hearts: Chamber- and Disease-Preferential mRNA Expression
Authors: Darkow Elisa , Yusuf Dilmurat , Rajamani Sridharan , Backofen Rolf , Kohl Peter , Ravens Ursula , Peyronnet Rémi
Published: June 2023

The cardiac cell mechanical environment changes on a beat-by-beat basis as well as in the course of various cardiac diseases. Cells sense and respond to mechanical cues via specialized mechano-sensors initiating adaptive signaling cascades. With the aim of revealing new candidates underlying mechano-transduction relevant to cardiac diseases, we investigated mechano-sensitive ion channels (MSC) in human hearts for their chamber- and disease-preferential mRNA expression. Based on a meta-analysis of RNA sequencing studies, we compared the mRNA expression levels of MSC in human atrial and ventricular tissue samples from transplant donor hearts (no cardiac disease), and from patients in sinus rhythm (underlying diseases: heart failure, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease) or with atrial fibrillation. Our results suggest that a number of MSC genes are expressed chamber preferentially, e.g., CHRNE in the atria (compared to the ventricles), TRPV4 in the right atrium (compared to the left atrium), CACNA1B and KCNMB1 in the left atrium (compared to the right atrium), as well as KCNK2 and KCNJ2 in ventricles (compared to the atria). Furthermore, 15 MSC genes are differentially expressed in cardiac disease, out of which SCN9A (lower expressed in heart failure compared to donor tissue) and KCNQ5 (lower expressed in atrial fibrillation compared to sinus rhythm) show a more than twofold difference, indicative of possible functional relevance. Thus, we provide an overview of cardiac MSC mRNA expression in the four cardiac chambers from patients with different cardiac diseases. We suggest that the observed differences in MSC mRNA expression may identify candidates involved in altered mechano-transduction in the respective diseases.
Comprehensive Comparison of the Capacity of Functionalized Sepharose, Magnetic Core, and Polystyrene Nanoparticles to Immuno-Precipitate Procalcitonin from Human Material for the Subsequent Quantification by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Masetto Thomas , Matzenbach Kai , Reuschel Thomas , Tölke Sebastian-Alexander , Schneider Klaus , Esser Lea Marie , Reinhart Marco , Bindila Laura , Peter Christoph , Grimmler Matthias
Published: June 2023

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. The fast and accurate diagnosis of sepsis by procalcitonin (PCT) has emerged as an essential tool in clinical medicine. Although in use in the clinical laboratory for a long time, PCT quantification has not yet been standardized. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry working group on the standardization of PCT (IFCC-WG PCT) aims to provide an LC-MS/MS-based reference method as well as the highest metrological order reference material to address this diagnostic need. Here, we present the systematic evaluation of the efficiency of an immuno-enrichment method, based on functionalized Sepharose, magnetic-core, or polystyrene (latex) nano-particles, to quantitatively precipitate PCT from different human sample materials. This method may be utilized for both mass spectrometric and proteomic purposes. In summary, only magnetic-core nano-particles functionalized by polyclonal PCT antibodies can fulfil the necessary requirements of the international standardization of PCT. An optimized method proved significant benefits in quantitative and specific precipitation as well as in the subsequent LC-MS/MS detection of PCT in human serum samples or HeLa cell extract. Based on this finding, further attempts of the PCT standardization process will utilize a magnetic core-derived immuno-enrichment step, combined with subsequent quantitative LC-MS/MS detection.
The Host E3-Ubiquitin Ligase TRIM28 Impedes Viral Protein GP4 Ubiquitination and Promotes PRRSV Replication
Authors: Cui Zhiying , Zhou Likun , Zhao Shijie , Li Wen , Li Jiahui , Chen Jing , Zhang Yina , Xia Pingan
Published: June 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), caused by the PRRS virus (PRRSV), is a highly pathogenic porcine virus that brings tremendous economic losses to the global swine industry. PRRSVs have evolved multiple elegant strategies to manipulate the host proteins and circumvent against the antiviral responses to establish infection. Therefore, the identification of virus–host interactions is critical for understanding the pathogenesis of PRRSVs. Tripartite motif protein 28 (TRIM28) is a transcriptional co-repressor involved in the regulation of viral and cellular transcriptional programs; however, its precise role in regulating PRRSV infection remains unknown. In this study, we found that the mRNA and protein levels of TRIM28 were up-regulated in PRRSV-infected porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) and MARC-145 cells. Ectopic TRIM28 expression dramatically increased viral yields, whereas the siRNA-mediated knockdown of TRIM28 significantly inhibited PRRSV replication. Furthermore, we used a co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) assay to demonstrate that TRIM28 interacted with envelope glycoprotein 4 (GP4) among PRRSV viral proteins. Intriguingly, TRIM28 inhibited the degradation of PRRSV GP4 by impeding its ubiquitination. Taken together, our work provides evidence that the host E3-ubiquitin ligase TRIM28 suppresses GP4 ubiquitination and is important for efficient virus replication. Therefore, our study identifies a new host factor, TRIM28, as a potential target in the development of anti-viral drugs against PRRSV.
Pathophysiology of Cerebellar Degeneration in Mitochondrial Disorders: Insights from the Harlequin Mouse
Authors: Fernández de la Torre Miguel , Fiuza-Luces Carmen , Laine-Menéndez Sara , Delmiro Aitor , Arenas Joaquín , Martín Miguel Ángel , Lucia Alejandro , Morán María
Published: June 2023

By means of a proteomic approach, we assessed the pathways involved in cerebellar neurodegeneration in a mouse model (Harlequin, Hq) of mitochondrial disorder. A differential proteomic profile study (iTRAQ) was performed in cerebellum homogenates of male Hq and wild-type (WT) mice 8 weeks after the onset of clear symptoms of ataxia in the Hq mice (aged 5.2 ± 0.2 and 5.3 ± 0.1 months for WT and Hq, respectively), followed by a biochemical validation of the most relevant changes. Additional groups of 2-, 3- and 6-month-old WT and Hq mice were analyzed to assess the disease progression on the proteins altered in the proteomic study. The proteomic analysis showed that beyond the expected deregulation of oxidative phosphorylation, the cerebellum of Hq mice showed a marked astroglial activation together with alterations in Ca2+ homeostasis and neurotransmission, with an up- and downregulation of GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, respectively, and the downregulation of cerebellar “long-term depression”, a synaptic plasticity phenomenon that is a major player in the error-driven learning that occurs in the cerebellar cortex. Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms associated with cerebellar degeneration in the Hq mouse model, including a complex deregulation of neuroinflammation, oxidative phosphorylation and glutamate, GABA and amino acids’ metabolism
The Effect of miR-140-5p with HDAC4 towards Growth and Differentiation Signaling of Chondrocytes in Thiram-Induced Tibial Dyschondroplasia
Authors: Yao Wangyuan , Kulyar Muhammad Fakhar-e-Alam , Ding Yanmei , Du Haitao , Hong Jiajia , Loon Kyein San , Nawaz Shah , Li Jiakui
Published: June 2023

There is evidence to suggest that microRNA-140-5p (miR-140), which acts as a suppressor, is often elevated and has a role in various malignancies. Nevertheless, neither the function nor the mechanisms in chondrocytes linked with bone disorders, e.g., tibial dyschondroplasia (TD), have been satisfactorily established. The purpose of this study was to look into the role of microRNA-140-5p (miR-140) and its interaction with HDAC4 in chondrocytes, as well as the implications for tibial dyschondroplasia (TD), with a particular focus on the relationship between low miR-140 expression and poor pathologic characteristics, as well as its physiological effects on chondrocyte growth, differentiation, and chondrodysplasia. In this investigation, we discovered that TD had a reduced expression level of the miR-140. There was a correlation between low miR-140 expression, poor pathologic characteristics, and the short overall survival of chondrocytes. Our findings show an aberrant reduction in miR-140 expression, and HDAC4 overexpression caused disengagement in resting and proliferation zones. This further resulted in uncontrolled cell proliferation, differentiation, and chondrodysplasia. Mechanistically, HDAC4 inhibited the downstream transcription factors MEF2C and Runx2 and interacted with Col-Ⅱ, Col-X, and COMP. However, miR-140 binding to the 3′-UTR of HDAC4 resulted in the growth and differentiation of chondrocytes. Moreover, the expression of HDAC4 through LMK-235 was significantly decreased, and the expression was significantly increased under ITSA-1, referring to a positive feedback circuit of miR-140 and HDAC4 for endochondral bone ossification. Furthermore, as a prospective treatment, the flavonoids of Rhizoma drynariae (TFRD) therapy increased the expression of miR-140. Compared to the TD group, TFRD treatment increased the expression of growth-promoting and chondrocyte differentiation markers, implying that TFRD can promote chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation in the tibial growth plate. Hence, directing this circuit may represent a promising target for chondrocyte-related bone disorders and all associated pathological bone conditions.
The Detection of COVID-19 in Chest X-rays Using Ensemble CNN Techniques
Authors: Kuzinkovas Domantas , Clement Sandhya
Published: June 2023

Advances in the field of image classification using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have greatly improved the accuracy of medical image diagnosis by radiologists. Numerous research groups have applied CNN methods to diagnose respiratory illnesses from chest X-rays and have extended this work to prove the feasibility of rapidly diagnosing COVID-19 with high degrees of accuracy. One issue in previous research has been the use of datasets containing only a few hundred images of chest X-rays containing COVID-19, causing CNNs to overfit the image data. This leads to lower accuracy when the model attempts to classify new images, as would be clinically expected. In this work, we present a model trained on the COVID-QU-Ex dataset containing 33,920 chest X-ray images, with an equal share of COVID-19, Non-COVID pneumonia, and Normal images. The model is an ensemble of pre-trained CNNs (ResNet50, VGG19, and VGG16) and GLCM textural features. The model achieved a 98.34% binary classification accuracy (COVID-19/no COVID-19) on a test dataset of 6581 chest X-rays and 94.68% for distinguishing between COVID-19, Non-COVID pneumonia, and normal chest X-rays. The results also demonstrate that a higher 98.82% three-class test accuracy can be achieved using the model if the training dataset only contains a few thousand images. However, the generalizability of the model suffers due to the smaller dataset size. This study highlights the benefits of both ensemble CNN techniques and larger dataset sizes for medical image classification performance.
Properties of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) with Several Contents of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA)
Authors: Cantero-Durango Julio , Polo-Mendoza Rodrigo , Martinez-Arguelles Gilberto , Fuentes Luis
Published: June 2023

Continuous research efforts have been developed in the literature to raise the sustainability components of the road infrastructure industry, i.e., reduce potential contaminants and augment financial profitability. In this regard, this investigation aims to explore the feasibility of producing Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) with the inclusion of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) as a partial substitute for coarse Natural Aggregates (NAs). Thus, four different HMAs were considered, namely HMAs with coarse RCA contents of 0, 15, 30, and 45%. Specifically, the mechanical and sustainability properties of the asphalt mixtures were determined. On the one hand, the Marshall design parameters, resilient modulus, moisture susceptibility, rutting resistance, and fatigue life were addressed as mechanical properties. Meanwhile, regarding the sustainability properties, the environmental impacts and production costs were estimated using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and the Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) methodologies, respectively. Consequently, the following conclusions were obtained: (i) as the coarse RCA content increases, the mechanical behavior of the HMA progressively deteriorates; (ii) this decrease in mechanical performance is acceptable up to a 15% RCA of coarse RCA, whereas for higher dosages this alteration is abrupt; and (iii) the RCA only generates sustainability benefits at a 15% replacement amount.
Enhanced Lithium Storage Performance in Si/MXene Porous Composites
Authors: Yang Hao , Jiang Tingting , Zhou Yingke
Published: June 2023

As a potential negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), silicon has a relatively high specific lithium storage capacity. However, the large volume change during the cycle may result in the isolation with the current collector and therefore the rapid capacity decay during cycling. The poor electric conductivity of the silicon limits the high-power density application in LIBs. To meet the above challenges, a stable Si/Ti3C2Tx composite material was designed. Si nanoparticles are bonded with -NH2 group so that the silicon surface has a positive charge, which can then be electrostatic self-assembly with negatively charged MXene nanosheets in a facile freeze-drying method. Silicon nanoparticles were anchored on the surface or inside the interspace of the MXene nanosheets, which could improve the conductivity of the composites. The composite material (NH2-Si/MXene) presented a stable and porous structure with extra room for silicon expansion and plentiful channels for carrier transportation. Benefiting from the improved structural stability and enhanced charge storage dynamics, the discharge capacity of NH2-Si/MXene is 1203.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1. These results provide new insights for the application of silicon-based negative electrode materials in high-energy-density LIBs.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Boron-Doped Graphene for High-Performance Zinc-Ion Hybrid Capacitor Using Aloe Vera Gel Electrolyte
Authors: Thirumal Vediyappan , Rajkumar Palanisamy , Yoo Kisoo , Kim Jinho
Published: June 2023

The great interest in developing emerging zinc-ion capacitors (ZIC) for energy storage applications is due to their inexpensiveness and the future necessity for hybrid electrical energy storage devices. The Zn-ion hybrid capacitor device was assembled using boron (B)-doped reduced graphene oxide (B-RGO) material, which acts as the cathode, and pure zinc metal as an anode. This research work aims to study the influence of B-doped reduced graphene oxide (B-RGO) with Aloe vera gel as an electrolyte. The reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and B-RGO electrode active materials were confirmed through X-ray diffraction (XRD), RAMAN, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and field emission-transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM) analysis. The surface morphological images reveal that a few-layered nanostructure B-RGO was used in the Zn-ion hybrid capacitor device. The electrochemical performance of the Zn-ion hybrid capacitor was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) measurements, with a wide active potential range of 0–2 V versus Zn/Zn+. The mixture composition of Aloe vera extract and 1M ZnSO4 electrolyte generated a stable voltage and exhibited good capacitive behavior. The fabricated ZIC coin cell device with the Aloe vera gel semi-gel electrolyte containing ZnSO4 demonstrated improved Zn+ ionic exchange and storage efficiency. Moreover, the B-RGO electrode active material exhibited excellent cycle stability. The simple one-step electrochemical technique is the most suitable process for boron doping into graphene nanosheets for future energy storage applications.
Sex Differences in Heart Failure: What Do We Know?
Authors: Arata Allegra , Ricci Fabrizio , Khanji Mohammed Y. , Mantini Cesare , Angeli Francesco , Aquilani Roberta , Di Baldassarre Angela , Renda Giulia , Mattioli Anna Vittoria , Nodari Savina , Gallina Sabina
Published: June 2023

Heart failure (HF) remains an important global health issue, substantially contributing to morbidity and mortality. According to epidemiological studies, men and women face nearly equivalent lifetime risks for HF. However, their experiences diverge significantly when it comes to HF subtypes: men tend to develop HF with reduced ejection fraction more frequently, whereas women are predominantly affected by HF with preserved ejection fraction. This divergence underlines the presence of numerous sex-based disparities across various facets of HF, encompassing aspects such as risk factors, clinical presentation, underlying pathophysiology, and response to therapy. Despite these apparent discrepancies, our understanding of them is far from complete, with key knowledge gaps still existing. Current guidelines from various professional societies acknowledge the existence of sex-based differences in HF management, yet they are lacking in providing explicit, actionable recommendations tailored to these differences. In this comprehensive review, we delve deeper into these sex-specific differences within the context of HF, critically examining associated definitions, risk factors, and therapeutic strategies. We provide a specific emphasis on aspects exclusive to women, such as the impact of pregnancy-induced hypertension and premature menopause, as these unique factors warrant greater attention in the broader HF discussion. Additionally, we aim to clarify ongoing controversies and knowledge gaps pertaining to the pharmacological treatment of HF and the sex-specific indications for cardiac implantable electronic devices. By shining a light on these issues, we hope to stimulate a more nuanced understanding and promote the development of more sex-responsive approaches in HF management.
In Marfan Syndrome and Related Diseases, STABILISE Technique Should Be Used with Care: Results from a Volumetric Comparative Study of Endovascular Treatment for Aortic Dissection
Authors: Azogui Ron , Porto Alizee , Castelli Maxime , Omnes Virgile , De Masi Mariangela , Bartoli Michel , Piquet Philippe , Gariboldi Vlad , Busa Tiffany , Jacquier Alexis , Bal Laurence , Gaudry Marine
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Aortic dissection in patients with Marfan and related syndromes (HTAD) is a serious pathology whose treatment by thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) is still under debate. The aim of this study was to assess the results of the TEVAR for aortic dissection in patients with HTAD as compared to a young population without HTAD. Methods: The study received the proper ethical oversight. We performed an observational exposed (confirmed HTAD) vs. non-exposed (<65 years old) study of TEVAR-treated patients. The preoperative, 1 year, and last available CT scans were analyzed. The thoracic and abdominal aortic diameters, aortic length, and volumes were measured. The entry tears and false lumen (FL) status were assessed. The demographic, clinical, and anatomic data were collected during the follow-up. Results: Between 2011 and 2021, 17 patients were included in the HTAD group and 22 in the non-HTAD group. At 1 year, the whole aortic volume increased by +21.2% in the HTAD group and by +0.2% the non-HTAD groups, p = 0.005. An increase in the whole aortic volume > 10% was observed in ten cases (58.8%) in the HTAD group and in five cases (22.7%) in the non-HTAD group (p = 0.022). FL thrombosis was achieved in nine cases (52.9%) in the HTAD group vs. twenty (90.9%) cases in the non-HTAD group (p < 0.01). The risk factors for unfavorable anatomical evolution were male gender and the STABILISE technique. With a linear model, we observed a significantly different aortic volume evolution between the two groups (p < 0.01) with the STABILISE technique; this statistical difference was not found in the TEVAR subgroup. In the HTAD patients, there was a significant difference in the total aortic volume evolution progression between the patients treated with the STABILISE technique and the patients treated with TEVAR (+160.1 ± 52.3% vs. +47 ± 22.5%, p < 0.01 and +189.5 ± 92.5% vs. +58.6 ± 34.8%, p < 0.01 at 1 year and at the end of follow-up, respectively). Conclusions: TEVAR in the HTAD patients seemed to be associated with poorer anatomical outcomes at 1 year. This result was strongly related to the STABILISE technique which should be considered with care in these specific patients.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Anosmia and Ageusia in Elderly Patients Who Had Been Previously Hospitalized by SARS-CoV-2: The LONG-COVID-EXP Multicenter Study
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , Cancela-Cilleruelo Ignacio , Rodríguez-Jiménez Jorge , Fuensalida-Novo Stella , Martín-Guerrero José D. , Pellicer-Valero Óscar J. , Cigarán-Méndez Margarita
Published: June 2023

We explored two different graph methods for visualizing the prevalence of self-reported post-COVID anosmia and ageusia in a large sample of individuals who had been previously hospitalized in five different hospitals. A cohort of 1266 previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors participated. Participants were assessed at hospitalization (T0) and at three different follow-up periods: 8.4 (T1), 13.2 (T2), and 18.3 (T3) months after hospital discharge. They were asked about the presence of self-reported anosmia and ageusia that they attributed to infection. Anosmia was defined as a self-perceived feeling of complete loss of smell. Ageusia was defined as a self-perceived feeling of complete loss of taste. Data about hospitalization were recorded from medical records. The results revealed that the prevalence of anosmia decreased from 8.29% (n = 105) at hospitalization (T0), to 4.47% (n = 56) at T1, to 3.27% (n = 41) at T2, and 3.35% (n = 42) at T3. Similarly, the prevalence of ageusia was 7.10% (n = 89) at the onset of SARS-CoV-2 infection (T0), but decreased to 3.03% (n = 38) at T1, to 1.99% (n = 25) at T2, and 1.36% (n = 17) at T3. The Sankey plots showed that only 10 (0.8%) and 11 (0.88%) patients exhibited anosmia and ageusia throughout all the follow-ups. The exponential curves revealed a progressive decrease in prevalence, demonstrating that self-reported anosmia and ageusia improved in the years following hospitalization. The female sex (OR4.254, 95% CI 1.184–15.294) and sufferers of asthma (OR7.086, 95% CI 1.359–36.936) were factors associated with the development of anosmia at T2, whereas internal care unit admission was a protective factor (OR0.891, 95% CI 0.819–0.970) for developing anosmia at T2. The use of a graphical method, such as a Sankey plot, shows that post-COVID self-reported anosmia and ageusia exhibit fluctuations during the first years after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, self-reported anosmia and ageusia also show a decrease in prevalence during the first years after infection, as expressed by exponential bar plots. The female sex was associated with the development of post-COVID anosmia, but not ageusia, in our cohort of elderly patients previously hospitalized due to COVID-19.
Anesthesia Depresses Cerebrovascular Reactivity to Acetazolamide in Pediatric Moyamoya Vasculopathy
Authors: Deckers Pieter T. , Siero Jeroen C. W. , Mensink Maarten O. , Kronenburg Annick , Braun Kees P. J. , van der Zwan Albert , Bhogal Alex A.
Published: June 2023

Measurements of cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) are essential for treatment decisions in moyamoya vasculopathy (MMV). Since MMV patients are often young or cognitively impaired, anesthesia is commonly used to limit motion artifacts. Our aim was to investigate the effect of anesthesia on the CVR in pediatric MMV. We compared the CVR with multidelay-ASL and BOLD MRI, using acetazolamide as a vascular stimulus, in all awake and anesthesia pediatric MMV scans at our institution. Since a heterogeneity in disease and treatment influences the CVR, we focused on the (unaffected) cerebellum. Ten awake and nine anesthetized patients were included. The post-acetazolamide CBF and ASL-CVR were significantly lower in anesthesia patients (47.1 ± 15.4 vs. 61.4 ± 12.1, p = 0.04; 12.3 ± 8.4 vs. 23.7 ± 12.2 mL/100 g/min, p = 0.03, respectively). The final BOLD-CVR increase (0.39 ± 0.58 vs. 3.6 ± 1.2% BOLD-change (mean/SD), p < 0.0001), maximum slope of increase (0.0050 ± 0.0040%/s vs. 0.017 ± 0.0059%, p < 0.0001), and time to maximum BOLD-increase (~463 ± 136 and ~697 ± 144 s, p = 0.0028) were all significantly lower in the anesthesia group. We conclude that the response to acetazolamide is distinctively different between awake and anesthetized MMV patients, and we hypothesize that these findings can also apply to other diseases and methods of measuring CVR under anesthesia. Considering that treatment decisions heavily depend on CVR status, caution is warranted when assessing CVR under anesthesia.
A Theoretical Investigation of the Structural, Electronic and Mechanical Properties of Pristine and Nitrogen-Terminated Carbon Nanoribbons Composed of 4–5–6–8-Membered Rings
Authors: Mortazavi Bohayra
Published: June 2023

Among the exciting recent advances in the field of carbon-based nanomaterials, the successful realization of a carbon nanoribbon composed of 4–5–6–8-membered rings (ACS Nano 2023 17, 8717) is a particularly inspiring accomplishment. In this communication motivated by the aforementioned achievement, we performed density functional theory calculations to explore the structural, electronic and mechanical properties of the pristine 4–5–6–8-membered carbon nanoribbons. Moreover, we also constructed four different nitrogen-terminated nanoribbons and analyzed their resulting physical properties. The acquired results confirm that the pristine and nitrogen-terminated nanoribbons are are thermally stable direct-gap semiconductors, with very close HSE06 band gaps between 1.12 and 1.25 eV. The elastic modulus and tensile strength of the nitrogen-free 4–5–6–8-membered nanoribbon are estimated to be remarkably high, 534 and 41 GPa, respectively. It is shown that nitrogen termination can result in noticeable declines in the tensile strength and elastic modulus to 473 and 33 GPa, respectively. This study provides useful information on the structural, thermal stability, electronic and mechanical properties of the pristine and nitrogen-terminated 4–5–6–8-membered carbon nanoribbons and suggests them as strong direct-gap semiconductors for electronics, optoelectronics and energy storage systems.
Accuracy of Intraarticular Injections: Blind vs. Image Guided Techniques—A Review of Literature
Authors: Saha Prasenjit , Smith Matthew , Hasan Khalid
Published: June 2023

Intra-articular injections are widely used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes of joint pathologies throughout the body. These injections can be performed blind by utilizing anatomical landmarks or with the use of imaging modalities to directly visualize the joint space during injections. This review of the literature aims to comprehensively identify differences in the accuracy of intra-articular injections via palpation vs. image guidance in the most commonly injected joints in the upper and lower extremities. To our knowledge, there are no such comprehensive reviews available. A narrative literature review was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify studies focusing on the accuracy of blind or image-guided intra-articular injections for each joint. A total of 75 articles was included in this review, with blind and image-guided strategies being discussed for the most commonly injected joints of the upper and lower extremities. Varying ranges of accuracy with blind and image-guided modalities were found throughout the literature, though an improvement in accuracy was seen in nearly all joints when using image guidance. Differences are pronounced, particularly in deep joints such as the hip or in the small joints such as those in the hand or foot. Image guidance is a useful adjunct for most intra-articular injections, if available. Though there is an increase in accuracy in nearly all joints, minor differences in accuracy seen in large, easily accessed joints, such as the knee, may not warrant image guidance.
Implementation of International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea Using Coloured Petri Nets
Authors: Brozovic Vladimir , Kezic Danko , Bosnjak Rino , Krile Srecko
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study is to show how coloured Petri nets can be used to select the crossing rules guaranteeing that two ships avoid collisions at sea in accordance with the international regulations on this matter. This paper is exclusively focused on the solution to this small sub-problem within the overall “Collision Avoidance System” that the authors of the present study are currently developing. For easier understanding, the overall system is also briefly presented. How the Petri net in the CPN Tools software is fed with “Real Time Real World” data is presented. These data are generated outside the Petri net from the function block to predict a possible collision and from the current meteorological data. We also demonstrate how the rule selections made by the Petri net are transferred from the CPN Tools software into the “Real Time Real World”. This transferred information is used outside the Petri net in the function block to calculate avoidance routes. The definition of the colour sets that are used and the individual operations applied to these colour sets in the coloured Petri net are presented.
Study on the Methods of Measurement, Optimization and Forecast of Propulsion Shaft Bearing Load of Ships
Authors: Li Rui , Wang Ji , Chen Ziqi , Wang Feixiang , Liu Yujun
Published: June 2023

The qualit12y of shafting alignment is related to the reliability and safety of a ship’s operation, and bearing displacement adjustment (BDA) plays a key role in shafting alignment. To solve the problems encountered in ship shafting alignment in the actual construction, this study focused on the investigation of the shafting load measurement system based on the strain gauge method (SGM), used the optimization method based on quadratic programming (QP) to calculate the BDA and adopted algorithms based on the bearing load influence coefficients (BICs) to forecast the load after the adjustment. The experimental work, as well as the measurement, calculation and analysis of several real ships, indicated that the measurement, optimization and forecasting methods of the bearing load of the propulsion shafting of large ships in this study would be significant for guiding the actual construction work of ship shafting alignment.
Pilot Acoustic Tomography Experiment in the Sea of Japan at 1073 km Distance
Authors: Dolgikh Grigory , Morgunov Yuri , Golov Aleksander , Bezotvetnykh Vladimir , Voytenko Evgeny , Lebedev Mikhail , Razzhivin Vasilii , Kaplunenko Dmitrii , Tagiltsev Aleksandr , Shkramada Sergey
Published: June 2023

This article discusses the results obtained from performing a test acoustic-hydrological experiment in August 2022 at a marine test site from the coast of Sakhalin Island to the Kita-Yamato Bank in the Sea of Japan. A methodology for preliminary studies in the water area is presented. It is designed to study the climatic variability of the temperature regimes of the aquatic environment based on numerical modeling using the RAY computer program and the NEMO ocean hydrodynamic circulation model. One of the main results is the value of the average temperature of the marine environment calculated with high accuracy on the axis of the underwater sound channel in the Sea of Japan on a thousand-kilometer acoustic path when crossing the vortex system. The appearance of the measuring system, technical means, and methods described in the article can be used as the basis for organizing high-precision operational monitoring of thermodynamic processes in extended marine areas.
Direction-of-Arrival Estimation of Bottom-Mounted Horizontal Linear Array Based on the Weighted Phase Velocity
Authors: Zhang Yukun , Yang Qiulong , Yang Kunde
Published: June 2023

The direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation of an underwater bottom-mounted horizontal linear array (HLA) based on weighted phase velocity has been proposed in this paper. The directional response is mainly affected by differences in the modal phase velocities and the sound speed of the water column. Based on the mode theory, the acoustic intensity distribution characteristics and beam deviation were analyzed. The beamforming result obtained provides a distinguishing feature of bearing deviation when the measured sound speed was used. By applying the modal weighted phase velocity instead, source bearing can be well estimated. Particularly, in the presence of a thermocline, the propagating modes can be selected on the basis of the mode trapping theory. Both surface and submerged sources were taken into account based on the experimental data, and the deviation was well explained and reduced. For a source near the end-fire direction, the bearing estimation error was reduced from several degrees to tenths of degrees.
A Cellulose Aerogel Made from Paper and Hemp Waste Added with Starch for the Sorption of Oil
Authors: Paulauskiene Tatjana , Sirtaute Egle , Uebe Jochen
Published: June 2023

One sustainable method of removing oil spills is the use of sorbents. In this study, aerogels made from paper waste and crosslinking starch are investigated as sorbents. Aerogels have a high porosity and, thus, achieve a high sorption capacity. The paper waste aerogels are compared with aerogel samples that also contain hemp fibres as a composite. After hydrophobisation with methyltrimethoxysilane, the maximum sorption capacity of crude oil, marine diesel oil and lubricating oil is investigated. Aerogels made of cellulose from paper waste with starch show the highest sorption capacity of about 50 gg−1 for all studied oils. Unfortunately, hemp fibres offer no advantage in sorption capacity, but they do mitigate a decrease in sorption capacity with an increase in cellulose fibre content. This could be an advantage in a possible commercial product, so that the properties do not vary as much.
Pancreas Rejection in the Artificial Intelligence Era: New Tool for Signal Patients at Risk
Authors: Vigia Emanuel , Ramalhete Luís , Ribeiro Rita , Barros Inês , Chumbinho Beatriz , Filipe Edite , Pena Ana , Bicho Luís , Nobre Ana , Carrelha Sofia , Sobral Mafalda , Lamelas Jorge , Coelho João Santos , Ferreira Aníbal , Marques Hugo Pinto
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Pancreas transplantation is currently the only treatment that can re-establish normal endocrine pancreatic function. Despite all efforts, pancreas allograft survival and rejection remain major clinical problems. The purpose of this study was to identify features that could signal patients at risk of pancreas allograft rejection. Methods: We collected 74 features from 79 patients who underwent simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplantation (SPK) and used two widely-applicable classification methods, the Naive Bayesian Classifier and Support Vector Machine, to build predictive models. We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and classification accuracy to evaluate the predictive performance via leave-one-out cross-validation. Results: Rejection events were identified in 13 SPK patients (17.8%). In feature selection approach, it was possible to identify 10 features, namely: previous treatment for diabetes mellitus with long-term Insulin (U/I/day), type of dialysis (peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, or pre-emptive), de novo DSA, vPRA_Pre-Transplant (%), donor blood glucose, pancreas donor risk index (pDRI), recipient height, dialysis time (days), warm ischemia (minutes), recipient of intensive care (days). The results showed that the Naive Bayes and Support Vector Machine classifiers prediction performed very well, with an AUROC and classification accuracy of 0.97 and 0.87, respectively, in the first model and 0.96 and 0.94 in the second model. Conclusion: Our results indicated that it is feasible to develop successful classifiers for the prediction of graft rejection. The Naive Bayesian generated nomogram can be used for rejection probability prediction, thus supporting clinical decision making.
Systemic and Oral Health Parameters in Eutrophic and Overweight/Obese Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ferrillo Martina , Calafiore Dario , Lippi Lorenzo , Petri Antonella , Mastroianni Alessandro , Fortunato Leonzio , Giudice Amerigo , Migliario Mario
Published: June 2023

To date, studies focusing on oral health in obese adolescents have provided controversial data. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate systemic and oral health parameters in eutrophic and overweight/obese adolescents. In total, 100 adolescents, mean aged 13.33 ± 2.04 years, were divided into two groups: 59 overweight/obese adolescents in the study group (SG) and 41 eutrophic-weight adolescents in the control group (CG). Chi-squared and Fisher exact tests were performed to compare dichotomous and categorical variables between the two groups. The subjects in the SG (mean aged 13.21 ± 2.21) reported a body mass index (BMI) of 29.05 ± 4.09 kg/m2, corresponding to over 95° percentile for both genders, and the subjects in the CG (mean aged 13.49 ± 1.77) reported a BMI of 18.26 ± 4.81 kg/m2, corresponding to 25° percentile for both genders. In the SG, the serum level of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D was significantly lower (p-value < 0.001), whereas fasting blood glucose (p = 0.006), waist circumference, and hip circumference were significantly higher (p-value < 0.001). Plaque Index (PI), Plaque Control Record (PCR), Oral Hygiene Index (OHI), Gingival Index (GI), and Gingival bleeding index (GBI) depicted a significantly worse level of oral health in the SG. Moreover, the number of subjects with caries was significantly higher in the SG. Nutritional and physical activity status according to the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and teenagers (KIDMED test) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-Adolescent) were reported to be significanlty better in the CG. In light of our results, obesity and poor oral health coexist in a cohort of adolescents. A screening of oral health status should be considered in obese subjects to focus resources on therapeutic interventions aiming at improving oral health.
Classification Maps: A New Mathematical Tool Supporting the Diagnosis of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Wąż Piotr , Zorena Katarzyna , Murawska Anna , Bielińska-Wąż Dorota
Published: June 2023

Objective: A new diagnostic graphical tool—classification maps—supporting the detection of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has been constructed. Methods: The classification maps are constructed using the ordinal regression model. In the ordinal regression model, the ordinal variable (the dependent variable) is the degree of the advancement of AMD. The other variables, such as CRT (Central Retinal Thickness), GCC (Ganglion Cell Complex), MPOD (Macular Pigment Optical Density), ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study), Snellen and Age have also been used in the analysis and are represented on the axes of the maps. Results: Here, 132 eyes were examined and classified to the AMD advancement level according to the four-point Age-Related Eye Disease Scale (AREDS): AREDS 1, AREDS 2, AREDS 3 and AREDS 4. These data were used for the creation of two-dimensional classification maps for each of the four stages of AMD. Conclusions: The maps allow us to perform the classification of the patient’s eyes to particular stages of AMD. The pairs of the variables represented on the axes of the maps can be treated as diagnostic identifiers necessary for the classification to particular stages of AMD.
The Sperm DNA Fragmentation Assay with SDF Level Less Than 15% Provides a Useful Prediction for Clinical Pregnancy and Live Birth for Women Aged under 40 Years
Authors: Chua Shiao Chuan , Yovich Steven John , Hinchliffe Peter Michael , Yovich John Lui
Published: June 2023

This retrospective cohort study was conducted on 1148 males who presented along with their partners for infertility management at the PIVET Medical Centre between 2013 and 2022 and had a sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) assay performed by Halosperm, thereafter participating in 1600 assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles utilising one of three modalities, namely, IVF-Only, ICSI-Only or IVF–ICSI Split cycles. The outcomes from the ART cycles were then analysed as two groups based on SDF levels <15% and ≥15%. The study showed the unadjusted fertilization rates were not different between the groups, neither across the four female age ranges. However, when the fertilization rates were adjusted for the mature oocytes (metaphase-II oocytes), there was a highly significant difference in fertilization rates in favour of the group with SDF levels < 15% where the women were in the younger age grouping of <35 years (78.4% vs. 73.0%; p < 0.0001). Overall, there was no difference in the rates of blastocyst development nor clinical pregnancy rates between the two SDF groups, but there was a significantly higher pregnancy rate for the younger women (<35 years) with the group of SDF level < 15% (44.1% vs. 37.4%; p = 0.04). Similarly, there was no difference in the miscarriage rates overall with respect to SDF groups, and no clear picture could be deciphered among the women’s age groups. With respect to cumulative live births, this reflected the pregnancy rates with no overall difference between the two SDF groups, but there was a significantly higher cumulative live birth rate for women <35 years where the SDF level was <15% (38.6% vs. 28.6%; p < 0.01). Among the three modalities, the highest cumulative live birth rate occurred within the group with SDF level < 15%, being highest with the IVF mode, particularly for women aged <40 years (43.0% vs. 37.7% for IVF-ICSI Split and 27.9% for ICSI; p = 0.0002), noting that the IVF case numbers were disproportionately low.
Non-Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Chiesa-Estomba Carlos M. , Barillari Maria Rosaria , Mayo-Yáñez Miguel , Maniaci Antonino , Fakhry Nicolas , Cammaroto Giovanni , Ayad Tareck , Lechien Jerome R.
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Non-squamous cell laryngeal carcinoma includes endothelial tumors, such as minor salivary gland tumors, lymphoepithelial tumors, neuroendocrine tumors, soft and hard tissue sarcomas, and malignant melanomas. (2) Methods: A state-of-the-art review using the MEDLINE/PUBMED, Google Scholar, Ovid Medline, Embase, and Scopus electronic databases was performed. (3) Conclusions: In order to optimize overall treatment outcomes, a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach to the management of non-SCC of the larynx must be adopted universally; a national or international registry on non-SCC laryngeal cancer can be useful to improve understanding about the behavior of this kind of tumor.
The Relation of Calculated Plasma Volume Status to Sublingual Microcirculatory Blood Flow and Organ Injury
Authors: Laou Eleni , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Ntalarizou Nicoletta , Choratta Theodora , Angelopoulou Zacharoula , Annousis Konstantinos , Sakellakis Minas , Kyriakaki Aikaterini , Ragias Dimitrios , Michou Anastasia , Chalkias Athanasios
Published: June 2023

Background: The calculated plasma volume status (cPVS) was validated as a surrogate of intravascular filling. The aim of this study is to assess the cPVS in relation to sublingual perfusion and organ injury. Methods: Pre- and postoperative cPVS were obtained by determining the actual and ideal plasma volume levels in surgical patients. The sublingual microcirculation was assessed using SDF imaging, and we determined the De Backer score, the Consensus Proportion of Perfused Vessels (Consensus PPV), and the Consensus PPV (small). Our primary outcome was the assessment of the distribution of cPVS and its association with intraoperative sublingual microcirculation and postoperative complications. Results: The median pre- and postoperative cPVS were −7.25% (IQR −14.29–−1.88) and −0.4% (IQR −5.43–6.06), respectively (p < 0.001). The mean intraoperative administered fluid volume was 2.5 ± 2.5 L (1.14 L h−1). No statistically significant correlation was observed between the pre- or postoperative cPVS and sublingual microcirculation variables. Higher preoperative (OR = 1.04, p = 0.098) and postoperative cPVS (OR = 1.057, p = 0.029) were associated with postoperative organ injury and complications (sepsis (30%), anemia (24%), respiratory failure (13%), acute kidney injury (6%), hypotension (6%), stroke (3%)). Conclusions: The calculated PVS was associated with an increased risk of organ injury and complications in this cohort.