bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Two Radiofrequency Vessel-Sealing Device for Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in African Lionesses (Panthera Leo)
Authors: Lacitignola Luca , Laricchiuta Pietro , Guadalupi Marta , Stabile Marzia , Scardia Annalaura , Cinone Mario , Staffieri Francesco
Published: September 2022

To evaluate two vessel-sealing devices with different jaw lengths for dissecting ovaries in adult obese African lionesses undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy. Twelve lionesses (n = 12) were recruited. The surgical procedures were performed through three portals, with a retractor platform positioned at the umbilical port and cannulas placed 3–4 cm cranial and caudal to the device at the level of the midline. Ovariectomy was performed using a vessel-sealing device according to a randomization list. We evaluated the surgery time the intra- and postoperative complications. The total surgery time was 49.3 min (range 40–61 min) in the Atlas group and significantly lower in the Caiman group (mean 31.8 min, range 26–51 min). The installation phase was similar between the groups. The ovariectomy time was significantly lower in the Caiman group (mean 7.8 min, range 4–11 min) than in the Atlas group (mean 20 min, range 16–30 min). Controlled bleeding was observed at the tip of the uterine horn in two cases in the Atlas group. No other complications were noted. The results of our study confirmed the significant advantages of employing the Caiman 12 vessel-sealing device in comparison with the LigaSure Atlas in terms of the time needed to complete ovariectomy, although both instruments could be considered safe. The use of the Caiman 12 is recommended when performing laparoscopic ovariectomies in adults with obesity.
Evaluation of a Phytogenic Compound with Minerals as a Possible Alternative to Ractopamine for Finishing Pigs
Authors: Moreira Valéria dos Santos , Garbossa Cesar Augusto Pospissil , Guimarães Eduarda Buck Bernardes , Hirai Welinton Yoshio , da Cruz Thiago Augusto , Alves Laya Kannan Silva , Araujo Lucio Francelino
Published: September 2022

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of a phytogenic compound for pigs in the growing and finishing phases as a possible substitute for ractopamine. A total of 140 pigs with an average initial weight of 48.8 kg ± 5.9 kg were used, distributed in a randomized block design, in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme (control diet (CONT), diet with inclusion of 2.5 kg per ton of a phytogenic compound (PC), and diet with 10 ppm of ractopamine (RAC), and two sexes: gilts and barrows), distributed in eight pens per treatment. The performance parameters were measured, and, at the end of the experimental period, the animals were slaughtered for carcass characteristics and pork quality analysis. The animals consuming RAC showed a better feed conversion, 4% improvement in relation to the group with the PC (p < 0.05). For daily weight gain, the animals supplemented with the PC showed 4.46% lower gain compared to RAC, and 3% greater gain compared to the CONT (p < 0.05). The animals that consumed the PC showed 5.6% lower shear force of the pork (p < 0.05) in relation to the CONT group and 29% lower in relation to the RAC group. The TBARS value presented a significant difference (p < 0.05), the CONTT group was 29% higher than the RAC, and the PC was 15.5% higher than the RAC. For chroma, the pork of the RAC group was 14% lower than the CONTT group and 10.3% less than the PC. There was no significant difference for the carcass parameters. It was concluded that the pigs in the ractopamine group presented the best performance; however, the phytogenic compound can be used against ractopamine’s restriction because it improves daily weight gain and promotes a softer and less pale meat when compared with ractopamine.
Feeding Dairy Ewes with Fresh or Dehydrated Sulla (Sulla coronarium L.) Forage. 1. Effects on Feed Utilization, Milk Production, and Oxidative Status
Authors: Gannuscio Riccardo , Ponte Marialetizia , Di Grigoli Antonino , Maniaci Giuseppe , Di Trana Adriana , Bacchi Monica , Alabiso Marco , Bonanno Adriana , Todaro Massimo
Published: September 2022

Feeding dairy ewes with fresh sulla forage (FSF), a legume species containing condensed tannins (CT), has been shown to increase feed intake, milk yield, and casein and enhances the oxidative status of animals. Dehydration of FSF could be an alternative to hay-making to preserve the nutritional properties. This research aimed to compare the responses of dairy ewes fed with diets based on sulla hay (SH), pelleted dehydrated sulla forage (DSF), or FSF in terms of efficiency of feed utilization, milk production, and the balance between oxidant (reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs)) and antioxidant (biological antioxidant potential (BAP)) substances at the plasma level. Ten first-lambing (FL) and ten third-lambing (TL) ewes of the Valle del Belice breed at 60 days in milk were allocated into five homogeneous groups fed with different diets in a partial 5 × 2 Latin square design with two phases. The diets differed for the forage basis: SHL = SH ad libitum; DSF2 = 2 kg/day DSF per head plus SH ad libitum; FSF2 = 2 kg/day FSF per head plus SH ad libitum; FSF4 = 4 kg/day FSF per head plus SH ad libitum; FSFL = FSF ad libitum. A commercial concentrate was provided to FL (0.8 kg/day per head) and TL (1.2 kg/day per head) ewes. Dehydration induced slight variations in the content of protein and fiber, showed no loss of vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and decreased the level of CT and polyphenols. The DSF2 diet resulted in a higher intake of dry matter, protein, and vitamin E compared to the other diets, whereas, compared to the FSFL diet, its intake was analogous for net energy and was lower in CT and polyphenols. The DSF2 diet was comparable to FSF4 and FSFL diets for milk yield, and to all diets for casein content and the clotting ability of milk. Ewes fed a DSF2 diet exhibited lowest values of ROMs and oxidative stress index (OSI = ROMs/BAP), indicating a better oxidative status, presumably due to the antioxidant protection exerted by the higher vitamin E intake and CT metabolites. These results confirmed the positive effects of FSF on milk production, especially due to CT intake, in improving the efficiency of dietary protein utilization, and showed how favorable effects also occur when FSF is replaced by DSF instead of SH.
Investigation of In Vitro Susceptibility and Resistance Mechanisms in Skin Pathogens: Perspectives for Fluoroquinolone Therapy in Canine Pyoderma
Authors: Azzariti Stefano , Bond Ross , Loeffler Anette , Zendri Flavia , Timofte Dorina , Chang Yu-Mei , Pelligand Ludovic
Published: September 2022

Fluoroquinolones (FQ) are commonly used in dogs with bacterial skin infections. Their use as first choice, along with the increased incidence of FQ-resistance, represents a risk to animal and public health. Our study determined minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) concentrations of five FQs in Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, and Escherichia coli, together with FQ-resistance mechanisms. MICs, efflux pump (EP) overexpression and MBCs were measured in 249 skin infection isolates following CLSI guidelines (CLSI VET01-A4, CLSI M26-A). Chromosomal and plasmid-mediated resistance genes were investigated after DNA extraction and sequencing. FQ-resistance was detected in 10% of methicillin-susceptible (MS), 90% of methicillin-resistant (MR) staphylococci and in 36% of E. coli. Bactericidal effect was observed except in 50% of MRSA/P for ciprofloxacin and in 20% of MRSPs for enrofloxacin. Highest MICs were associated with double mutation in gyrA (Ser83Leu + Asp87Asn), efflux pumps and three PMQR genes in E. coli, and grlA (Ser80Phe + Glu84Lys) in S. aureus. EP overexpression was high among E. coli (96%), low in S. aureus (1%) and absent in S. pseudintermedius. Pradofloxacin and moxifloxacin showed low MICs with bactericidal effect. Since in vitro FQ resistance was associated with MR, FQ use should be prudently guided by susceptibility testing.
Implementation of Deep Learning Algorithm on a Custom Dataset for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Applications
Authors: Neelam Jaikishore Chathura , Podaturpet Arunkumar Gautam , Jagannathan Srinath Ajitesh , Vamsi Harikrishnan , Srinivasan Kirtaan , Ramesh Rishabh Karthik , Jayaraman Kathirvelan , Ramachandran Prakash
Published: September 2022

Road hazards such as jaywalking pedestrians, stray animals, unmarked speed bumps, vehicles, and road damage can pose a significant threat in poor visibility conditions. Vehicles are fitted with safety technologies like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and AW (automatic warning) systems to tackle these issues. However, these safety systems are complex and expensive, and these proprietary systems are exclusive to high-end models. The majority of the existing vehicles on the road lacks these systems. The YOLO model (You Only Look Once Architecture) was chosen owing to its lightweight architecture and low inference latency. Since YOLO is an open-source architecture, it can enhance interoperability and feasibility of aftermarket/retrofit ADAS devices, which helps in reducing road fatalities. An ADAS which implements a YOLO-based object detection algorithm to detect and mark obstacles (pedestrians, vehicles, animals, speed breakers, and road damage) using a visual bounding box was proposed. The performance of YOLOv3 and YOLOv5 has been evaluated on the Traffic in the Tamil Nadu Roads dataset. The YOLOv3 model has performed exceptionally well with an F1-Score of 76.3% and an mAP (mean average precision) of 0.755, whereas the YOLOv5 has achieved an F1-Score of 73.7% and an mAP of 0.7263.
Investigation of the Flow Characteristics for Cylinder-in-Ball Valve Due to a Change in the Opening Rate
Authors: Kang Hyo-Lim , Park Hyung-Joon , Han Seung-Ho
Published: September 2022

Ball valves are widely used as flow control devices wherein a hollow, perforated ball pivots to control the liquid flowing through it. Due to a simple structure and only a quarter-turn of the stem required for either a fully open or fully closed state, ball valves are known for being durable with excellent shut-off properties, albeit without offering precise flow control. V-port ball valves are used as an alternative to allow for linear and even equal percentage flow characteristics, but a robust construction is required for higher velocity working fluids in the small end opening of the V-shape; otherwise, the valve could sustain damage. In the present study, a cylinder-in-ball valve is proposed through a structural conceptual design, wherein the opening begins at the center of the flow path. The flow characteristics and flow rates according to the opening rate were quantitatively evaluated via computational fluid dynamic analysis. The results showed that the flow coefficient, CV, with a range of 1.05~109.87, increased exponentially over the opening rates of 20~100%. A numerical analysis for the multi-phase flow was performed to calculate the vapor volume fraction to confirm the effects of cavitation. In addition, an experiment was conducted on the CV values to verify the validity of applying the proposed cylinder-in-ball valve as a flow control valve. Good agreement for the CV values was obtained between the experimental and numerical results.
Effect of Ozone Treatment on the Contents of Selected Bioactive Phytochemicals in Leaves of Alligator Plant Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Authors: Matłok Natalia , Piechowiak Tomasz , Zardzewiały Miłosz , Balawejder Maciej
Published: September 2022

The study investigated the effect of ozone treatment applied to Kalanchoe daigremontiana plants on the contents of selected phytochemicals and on markers of oxidative stress in the leaves. For this purpose, alligator plants were exposed to the gaseous ozone applied at a rate of 5 and 10 ppm for 1, 5, and 10 min. Subsequently, tests were performed to assess the ozone-treated plants for the ability to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), and for the activation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), i.e., enzymes responsible for the decomposition of ROS. Measurements were also carried out to determine antioxidant potential, total contents of polyphenols, and vitamin C in plants as well as their mechanical properties. The findings show that the use of controlled conditions of ozone treatment (10 ppm; 1 min) resulted in increased contents of selected bioactive compounds (enhancement of total polyphenols 79%, enhancement of antioxidant potential ABTS 55.6% and DPPH 65.8%) in the ozone-treated raw material, with no phytotoxic effects of the process observed. It was shown that a short duration of ozone treatment is related to the increased activity of SOD (max 44%) and CAT (max 18.8%), which contributes to the lower production of ROS in cells of Kalanchoe daigremontiana.
An Electromagnetic Circuit Design to Improve a Multi-Stage Coil-Gun’s Energy Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Kim Seonmyeong , Kim Jinho
Published: September 2022

We present in this paper a method of improving a coil gun circuit’s energy efficiency and acceleration performance. Particularly, the improvement was performed by designing a solenoid coil and capacitance for projectile velocity enhancement in a multi-stage coil gun, based on simulations and experiments. A projectile decelerates in coil guns when passing through the solenoid coil’s center by being subjugated to a force opposing the launch direction. Thus, we achieved the efficient distribution of the electromagnetic power delivered from the circuit to the projectile by adjusting the capacitance according to the solenoid coil’s shape. This produced a current shape suitable for projectile acceleration, consequently enhancing its performance. Designing the coil using 1.3 mm diameter copper wires, among the coils using copper wires of various diameters, to increase the number of turns and reduce the capacitance improved the energy efficiency while enhancing the acceleration performance. Finally, each stage’s measured and simulated velocities in the coil gun were analyzed and compared. Accordingly, we arrived at an efficient design method for multi-stage coil gun systems.
Aerosol Detection from the Cloud–Aerosol Transport System on the International Space Station: Algorithm Overview and Implications for Diurnal Sampling
Authors: Nowottnick Edward P. , Christian Kenneth E. , Yorks John E. , McGill Matthew J. , Midzak Natalie , Selmer Patrick A. , Lu Zhendong , Wang Jun , Salinas Santo V.
Published: September 2022

Concentrations of particulate aerosols and their vertical placement in the atmosphere determine their interaction with the Earth system and their impact on air quality. Space-based lidar, such as the Cloud–Aerosol Transport System (CATS) technology demonstration instrument, is well-suited for determining the vertical structure of these aerosols and their diurnal cycle. Through the implementation of aerosol-typing algorithms, vertical layers of aerosols are assigned a type, such as marine, dust, and smoke, and a corresponding extinction-to-backscatter (lidar) ratio. With updates to the previous aerosol-typing algorithms, we find that CATS, even as a technology demonstration, observed the documented seasonal cycle of aerosols, comparing favorably with the Cloud–Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) space-based lidar and the NASA Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA-2) model reanalysis. By leveraging the unique orbit of the International Space Station, we find that CATS can additionally resolve the diurnal cycle of aerosol altitude as observed by ground-based instruments over the Maritime Continent of Southeast Asia.
Towards a Multi-Instrumental Approach to Closing Aerosol Optical Extinction Profiles
Authors: Szkop Artur , Fernandes Alnilam , Pietruczuk Aleksander
Published: September 2022

A novel methodology is formulated and investigated on test cases for the reconstruction of complete vertical aerosol extinction profiles in which a synergy of remote, in-situ, and airborne measurements is utilized. The GRASP Open aerosol retrieval algorithm is supplied with remote LIDAR and sunphotometer data to obtain aerosol extinction profiles within the LIDAR’s operation range for coarse and fine aerosol modes separately. These are supplemented with ground-based in-situ measurements of particle size distribution that are translated to coarse and fine aerosol extinction coefficients with the use of Mie theory. UAV-based observations with optical particle counters are included to add information on vertical aerosol variability in the near-surface region. The profiles are closed with an analytical interpolation that is fine-tuned to produce continuous and smooth extinction profiles throughout the whole troposphere that are in agreement with columnar aerosol optical depth measurements. We present the possibility of reconstructing a complete and calibrated aerosol extinction profile, based on the case studies at a Central European background station. We include data-denial experiments to show that the inclusion of UAV-based measurements improves such reconstructions by providing crucial information on aerosol profiles near the ground. The proposed methodology can prove to be a potent tool for studies of aerosol concentration and evolution, especially when the majority of the pollution resides near the surface. Such conditions are prevalent in many highly industrialized regions, including central and southern Poland.
Constructing Electron-Atom Elastic Scattering Potentials Using Relativistic Coupled-Cluster Theory: A Few Case Studies
Authors: Sahoo Bijaya Kumar
Published: September 2022

In light of the immense interest in understanding the impact of an electron on atoms in the low-energy scattering phenomena observed in laboratories and astrophysical processes, we propose an approach to construct potentials using relativistic coupled-cluster (RCC) theory for the determination of electron-atom (e-A) elastic scattering cross-sections (eSCs). The net potential of an electron, scattered elastically by an atom, is conveniently expressed as the sum of the static (Vst) and exchange (Vex) potentials due to interactions of the scattered electron with the electrons of the atom and potentials due to polarization effects (Vpol) on the scattered electron by the atomic electrons. The Vst and Vex potentials for the e-A eSC problems can be constructed with a knowledge of the electron density function of the atom, while the Vpol potential can be obtained using the polarizabilities of the atom. In this paper, we present the electron densities and electric polarizabilties of Be, Mg, Ne and Ar atoms using two variants of the RCC method. Using these quantities, we construct potentials for e-A eSC problems. To obtain Vpol accurately, we evaluate the second- and third-order electric dipole and quadrupole polarizabilities using a linear response approach.
On a New Integral Inequality: Generalizations and Applications
Authors: Huang Huaping , Du Wei-Shih
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present some generalizations and improvements of a new integral inequality from the 29th IMC in 2022. Some applications of our new results are also provided.
Microcurrent Reverses Cigarette Smoke-Induced Angiogenesis Impairment in Human Keratinocytes In Vitro
Authors: Lu Chao , Prahm Cosima , Chen Yangmengfan , Ehnert Sabrina , Rinderknecht Helen , McCaig Colin D. , Nussler Andreas K. , Kolbenschlag Jonas
Published: September 2022

Cigarette smoking (CS) leads to several adverse health effects, including diseases, disabilities, and even death. Post-operative and trauma patients who smoke have an increased risk for complications, such as delayed bone or wound healing. In clinical trials, microcurrent (MC) has been shown to be a safe, non-invasive, and effective way to accelerate wound healing. Our study aimed to investigate if MC with the strength of 100 μA may be beneficial in treating CS-related healing impairment, especially in regard to angiogenesis. In this study, we investigated the effect of human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) on angiogenesis after 72 h of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) exposure in the presence or absence of 100 μA MC. Cell viability and proliferation were evaluated by resazurin conversion, Sulforhodamine B, and Calcein-AM/Hoechst 33342 staining; the pro-angiogenic potential of HaCaT cells was evaluated by tube formation assay and angiogenesis array assay; signaling pathway alterations were investigated using Western blot. Constant exposure for 72 h to a 100 μA MC enhanced the angiogenic ability of HaCaT cells, which was mediated through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. In conclusion, the current data indicate that 100 μA MC may support wound healing in smoking patients by enhancing angiogenesis.
Experimental Evidence of Bone Lesions Due to Larder Beetle Dermestes maculatus (Coleoptera: Dermestidae)
Authors: Charabidzé Damien , Lavieille Vincent , Colard Thomas
Published: September 2022

Dermestid beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) are necrophagous insects feeding on mummified carcasses. After six to seven molts, the larvae stop feeding and dig pupation chambers to hide and safely evolve into adults. Such pupation chambers have already been observed on archaeological mammals’ bones, but the attribution and interpretation of these osteological lesions lack experimental evidence in a forensic context. To observe whether dermestid larvae dig pupation chambers in human bones, 20 or 40 Dermestes maculatus (De Geer, 1774) larvae were placed in a dermestarium with different types of bones varying in species (Bos taurus or human), age (adult or immature), and preservation method (fresh or dry). Our results show that dermestid larvae caused multiple lesions, including larval mandible traces on cortical bone, cortical perforations, drilling of pupation chambers, destruction of the trabecular network, and the perforation of cartilage. Bone destruction was mainly observed on aged dry bones, while fresh bones only exhibited soft tissue and superficial cartilage lesions. According to these results, pupation chambers could indicate the simultaneous presence of several corpses at different decomposition stages, or the addition of new corpses while others were already skeletonized. These conclusions are particularly important in the case of mass graves, where chronology is sometimes difficult to establish.
Gut Microbiota Regulation of AHR Signaling in Liver Disease
Authors: Wang Baohong , Zhou Ziyuan , Li Lanjuan
Published: September 2022

Liver health plays a vital role in human health and disease. Emerging evidence has shown the importance of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in liver diseases such as alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver disease, and liver failure. As a ligand-activated transcription factor, AHR can be activated by endogenous ligands of microbial metabolites such as tryptophan (Trp), kynurenine (Kyn) or indole derivatives locally or distantly. However, the therapeutic effects of the gut microbiota-regulated AHR pathway remain to be clarified. In this review, we summarize recent progress and examine the role of AHR signaling as a target for gut microbiota intervention in liver diseases. The focus on AHR signaling will identify a promising target in the gut microbiota for better understanding and therapeutic opportunities in liver diseases.
Development of Biodegradable Polymeric Stents for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Shen Yihong , Yu Xiao , Cui Jie , Yu Fan , Liu Mingyue , Chen Yujie , Wu Jinglei , Sun Binbin , Mo Xiumei
Published: September 2022

Cardiovascular disease has become the leading cause of death. A vascular stent is an effective means for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, biodegradable polymeric vascular stents have been widely investigated by researchers because of its degradability and clinical application potential for cardiovascular disease treatment. Compared to non-biodegradable stents, these stents are designed to degrade after vascular healing, leaving regenerated healthy arteries. This article reviews and summarizes the recent advanced methods for fabricating biodegradable polymeric stents, including injection molding, weaving, 3D printing, and laser cutting. Besides, the functional modification of biodegradable polymeric stents is also introduced, including visualization, anti-thrombus, endothelialization, and anti-inflammation. In the end, the challenges and future perspectives of biodegradable polymeric stents were discussed.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α Has a Protective Effect on Fatty Liver Caused by Excessive Sucrose Intake
Authors: Yamazaki Tomomi , Ihato Megumi
Published: September 2022

Sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP)-1c is a transcription factor that regulates lipid synthesis from glucose in the liver. It is activated by sucrose, which activates the fatty acid synthesis pathway. On the other hand, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α regulates the transcription of several genes encoding enzymes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation in the liver. To evaluate the beneficial effects of PPARα on fatty liver caused by excessive sucrose intake, we investigated the molecular mechanisms related to the development of fatty liver in PPARα-deficient mice that were fed a high-sucrose diet (Suc). The SREBP-1c target gene expression was increased by sucrose intake, leading to the development of fatty liver. Furthermore, PPARα−/− mice developed severe fatty liver. Male and female PPARα−/− mice fed Suc showed 3.7- and 3.1-fold higher liver fat content than Suc-fed male and female wild-type mice, respectively. Thus, PPARα may work to prevent the development of fatty liver caused by excessive sucrose intake. Liver TG accumulation differed between male and female PPARα−/− mice. A possible explanation is that male mice show the increased expression of Pparγ, which usually contributes to triglyceride synthesis in the liver, to compensate for Pparα deficiency. In contrast, female wild-type mice inherently have low Pparα levels. Thus, Pparα deficiency has less pronounced effects in female mice. A diet that activates PPARα may be effective for preventing the development of fatty liver due to excessive sucrose intake.
Fatty Acid Levels and Their Inflammatory Metabolites Are Associated with the Nondipping Status and Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Stroke Patients
Authors: Drozd Arleta , Kotlęga Dariusz , Nowacki Przemysław , Ciećwież Sylwester , Trochanowski Tomasz , Szczuko Małgorzata
Published: September 2022

Background: This paper discusses the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of nondipping blood pressure and its role in the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of free fatty acids (FAs) and their inflammatory metabolites on the nondipping phenomenon and the risk of sleep apnea in stroke patients. Methods: Sixty-four ischemic stroke patients were included in the prospective study. Group I consisted of 33 patients with a preserved physiological dipping effect (DIP), while group II included 31 patients with the nondipping phenomenon (NDIP). All subjects had FA gas chromatography and inflammatory metabolite measurements performed with the use of liquid chromatography, their 24 h blood pressure was recorded, and they were assessed with the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS). Results: In the nondipping group a higher level of C16:0 palmitic acid was observed, while lower levels were observed in regard to C20:0 arachidic acid, C22:0 behenic acid and C24:1 nervonic acid. A decreased leukotriene B4 level was recorded in the nondipping group. None of the FAs and derivatives correlated with the ESS scale in the group of patients after stroke. Correlations were observed after dividing into the DIP and NDIP groups. In the DIP group, a higher score of ESS was correlated with numerous FAs and derivatives. Inflammation of a lower degree and a higher level of anti-inflammatory mediators from EPA and DHA acids favored the occurrence of the DIP. A high level of C18: 3n6 gamma linoleic acid indicating advanced inflammation, intensified the NDIP effect. Conclusions: We demonstrated potential novel associations between the FA levels and eicosanoids in the pathogenesis of the nondipping phenomenon. There are common connections between fatty acids, their metabolites, inflammation, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and nondipping in stroke patients.
Diagnosis of Malnutrition According to GLIM Criteria Predicts Complications and 6-Month Survival in Cancer Outpatients
Authors: Gascón-Ruiz Marta , Casas-Deza Diego , Marti-Pi Maria , Torres-Ramón Irene , Zapata-García María , Sesma Andrea , Lambea Julio , Álvarez-Alejandro María , Quilez Elisa , Isla Dolores , Arbonés-Mainar Jose Miguel
Published: September 2022

Background and Aims: Malnutrition is a condition that has a great impact on oncology patients. Poor nutritional status is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality, increased toxicity, and reduced tolerance to chemotherapy, among other complications. The recently developed GLIM criteria for malnutrition aim to homogenize its diagnosis, considering the baseline disease status. We aimed to evaluate the performance of these new criteria for the prediction of complications and mortality in patients with cancer. Methods: This work is a prospective, single-center study. All outpatients under active treatment for head and neck, upper gastrointestinal, and colorectal tumors between February and October 2020 were recruited. These patients were followed up for 6 months, assessing the occurrence of complications and survival based on GLIM diagnoses of malnutrition. Results: We enrolled 165 outpatients, 46.66% of whom were malnourished. During the 6-month follow-ups, patients with malnutrition (46.7%, according to GLIM criteria) had a ~3-fold increased risk of hospital admission (p < 0.001) and occurrence of severe infection (considered as those requiring hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and/or drainage by interventional procedures) (p = 0.002). Similarly, malnourished patients had a 3.5-fold increased risk of poor pain control and a 4.4-fold increased need for higher doses of opioids (both p < 0.001). They also had a 2.6-fold increased risk of toxicity (p = 0.044) and a 2.5-fold increased likelihood of needing a dose decrease or discontinuation of cancer treatment (p = 0.011). The 6-month survival of malnourished patients was significantly lower (p = 0.023) than in non-malnourished patients. Conclusions: Diagnoses of malnutrition according to the GLIM criteria in oncology patients undergoing active treatment predict increased complications and worse survival at 6-month follow-ups, making them a useful tool for assessing the nutritional status of oncology patients.
Novel 5-Nitrofuran-Tagged Imidazo-Fused Azines and Azoles Amenable by the Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé Multicomponent Reaction: Activity Profile against ESKAPE Pathogens and Mycobacteria
Authors: Sapegin Alexander , Rogacheva Elizaveta , Kraeva Lyudmila , Gureev Maxim , Dogonadze Marine , Vinogradova Tatiana , Yablonsky Petr , Balalaie Saeed , Baykov Sergey V. , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: September 2022

A chemically diverse set of 13 5-nitrofuran-tagged heterocyclic compounds has been prepared via the Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé multicomponent reaction. The testing of these compounds against the so-called ESKAPE panel of pathogens identified an apparent lead compound—N-cyclohexyl-2-(5-nitrofuran-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-amine (4a)—which showed an excellent profile against Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis (MIC 0.25, 0.06, 0.25 and 0.25 µg/mL, respectively). Its antibacterial profile and practically convenient synthesis warrant further pre-clinical development. Certain structure-activity relationships were established in the course of this study which were rationalized by the flexible docking experiments in silico. The assessment of antitubercular potential of the compounds synthesized against drug sensitive H37v strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis revealed little potential of the imidazo-fused products of the Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé multicomponent reaction as chemotherapeutic agents against this pathogen.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Usefulness of Epicardial Fat Thickness as a Non-Invasive Marker of the Presence and Severity of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Orci Lorenzo A. , Jornayvaz François R. , Toso Christian , Gariani Karim
Published: September 2022

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association between epicardial fat thickness (EFT) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) and was based on a registered protocol (CRD 4201809 5493). We searched Medline and Embase until December 2021 for studies reporting on the association between EFT and NAFLD. Qualitative reviews, meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed to explore this association. Effect sizes are reported as standardized mean differences. We included 12 studies, comprising 3610 individuals. EFT was evaluated with trans-thoracic echocardiography in nine studies, two studies using cardiac computed tomography and one study using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The presence of NAFLD was evaluated using transabdominal liver ultrasound in nine studies. Other studies used histology, magnetic resonance spectroscopy and MRI-derived proton density fat fraction. Liver biopsy was performed to assess the severity of NAFLD in four studies. The random-effects meta-analysis indicated that, as compared to control patients with lean livers, patients with NAFLD displayed significantly higher EFT (standardized mean difference 0.61, 95% confidence interval: 0.47–0.75, p < 0.0001, I2 = 72%). EFT was further significantly higher in patients with severe liver steatosis versus patients with mild–moderate liver steatosis (standardized mean difference 1.21 95% confidence interval: 0.26–2.16, p < 0.001, I2 S = 96%). Through the meta-regression analysis, we found that patients with increasingly higher blood levels of aspartate aminotransferase displayed an increasingly higher depth of association. The current meta-analysis suggests that EFT may represent a useful surrogate for assessing the presence and severity of NAFLD in a non-invasive manner.
Biomarkers for Immunotherapy in Poorly Differentiated Sinonasal Tumors
Authors: Villanueva-Fernández Eva , Hermsen Mario A. , Suárez-Fernández Laura , Vivanco Blanca , Franchi Alessandro , García-Marín Rocío , Cabal Virginia N. , Codina-Martínez Helena , Lorenzo-Guerra Sara Lucila , Llorente José L. , López Fernando
Published: September 2022

The sinonasal cavities harbor a wide variety of rare cancer types. Histopathological classification can be challenging, especially for poorly differentiated tumors. Despite advances in surgery and radio-chemotherapy, the 5-year survival rate is still very low. Thus, there is an unmet clinical need for new therapeutic options. We retrospectively evaluated poorly differentiated tumors of 9 different histological subtypes from 69 patients who had received conventional treatments for the presence of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), as well as the expression of PD-L1 and microsatellite instability (MSI) markers MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2, as biomarkers for immunotherapy. CD8+ TILs were present in 23/69 (33%) cases, PD-L1 expression was observed in 23/69 (33%), and markers for MSI positivity in 5/69 (7%) cases. CD8+ TILs correlated with PD-L1 positivity, while both were mutually exclusive with MSI markers. None of the biomarkers were associated with clinical features as age, gender or tumor stage. Cases with CD8+ TILs and PD-L1 positivity showed a tendency toward worse disease-specific survival. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are emerging as new options for treatment of many tumor types. Our results indicate that also a substantial subset of patients with poorly differentiated sinonasal tumors may be a candidate to be treated with this promising new therapy.
Electroencephalographic Patterns in taVNS: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gianlorenco Anna Carolyna L. , de Melo Paulo S. , Marduy Anna , Kim Angela Yun , Kim Chi Kyung , Choi Hyuk , Song Jae-Jun , Fregni Felipe
Published: September 2022

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a newer delivery system using a non-invasive stimulation device placed at the ear. taVNS research is focused on clinical trials showing potential therapeutic benefits, however the neurophysiological effects of this stimulation on brain activity are still unclear. We propose a systematic review that aims to describe the effects of taVNS on EEG measures and identify taVNS parameters that can potentially lead to consistent EEG-mediated biomarkers for this therapy. A systematic literature review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) and the Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews. Clinical trials examining EEG parameters were considered, including absolute and relative power, coherence, degree of symmetry, evoked potentials, and peak frequency of all bands. According to our criteria, 18 studies (from 122 articles) were included. Our findings show a general trend towards increased EEG power spectrum activity in lower frequencies, and changes on early components of the ERP related to inhibitory tasks. This review suggests that quantitative electroencephalography can be used to assess the effects of taVNS on brain activity, however more studies are needed to systematically establish the specific effects and metrics that would reflect the non-invasive stimulation through the auricular branch of the vagus nerve.
Nanomaterial-Based Electrochemical Nanodiagnostics for Human and Gut Metabolites Diagnostics: Recent Advances and Challenges
Authors: Yadav Amit K. , Verma Damini , Sajwan Reena K. , Poddar Mrinal , Yadav Sumit K. , Verma Awadhesh Kumar , Solanki Pratima R.
Published: September 2022

Metabolites are the intermediatory products of metabolic processes catalyzed by numerous enzymes found inside the cells. Detecting clinically relevant metabolites is important to understand their physiological and biological functions along with the evolving medical diagnostics. Rapid advances in detecting the tiny metabolites such as biomarkers that signify disease hallmarks have an immense need for high-performance identifying techniques. Low concentrations are found in biological fluids because the metabolites are difficult to dissolve in an aqueous medium. Therefore, the selective and sensitive study of metabolites as biomarkers in biological fluids is problematic. The different non-electrochemical and conventional methods need a long time of analysis, long sampling, high maintenance costs, and costly instrumentation. Hence, employing electrochemical techniques in clinical examination could efficiently meet the requirements of fully automated, inexpensive, specific, and quick means of biomarker detection. The electrochemical methods are broadly utilized in several emerging and established technologies, and electrochemical biosensors are employed to detect different metabolites. This review describes the advancement in electrochemical sensors developed for clinically associated human metabolites, including glucose, lactose, uric acid, urea, cholesterol, etc., and gut metabolites such as TMAO, TMA, and indole derivatives. Different sensing techniques are evaluated for their potential to achieve relevant degrees of multiplexing, specificity, and sensitivity limits. Moreover, we have also focused on the opportunities and remaining challenges for integrating the electrochemical sensor into the point-of-care (POC) devices.
Study on the Effect of Judgment Excitation Mode to Relieve Driving Fatigue Based on MF-DFA
Authors: Wang Fuwang , Wang Hao , Zhou Xin , Fu Rongrong
Published: September 2022

Driving fatigue refers to a phenomenon in which a driver’s physiological and psychological functions become unbalanced after a long period of continuous driving, and their driving skills decline objectively. The hidden dangers of driving fatigue to traffic safety should not be underestimated. In this work, we propose a judgment excitation mode (JEM), which adds secondary cognitive tasks to driving behavior through dual-channel human–computer interaction, so as to delay the occurrence of driving fatigue. We used multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA) to study the dynamic properties of subjects’ EEG, and analyzed the effect of JEM on fatigue retardation by Hurst exponent value and multifractal spectrum width value. The results show that the multifractal properties of the two driving modes (normal driving mode and JEM) are significantly different. The JEM we propose can effectively delay the occurrence of driving fatigue, and has good prospects for future practical applications.
Functional Coupling between the Fronto-Parietal Network and Default Mode Network Is Associated with Balanced Time Perspective
Authors: Chen Tao , Huang Jia , Cui Ji-fang , Li Zhi , Wang Ya , Irish Muireann , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: September 2022

Balanced time perspective refers to the ability to flexibly switch between different temporal foci in an adaptive manner according to the current context. Functional connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) has been suggested to support balanced time perspective. The coupling between the DMN and fronto-parietal network (FPN) may drive many important expressions of internally directed cognition. However, it remains unclear whether balanced time perspective is supported by the interaction between the FPN and DMN. To examine these issues, we recruited 91 participants (52 males with mean age of 19.6, and 39 females with mean age of 20.0) to undergo resting-state brain imaging scan and to complete a questionnaire measuring balanced time perspective. Seed-based voxel-wise functional connectivity analyses implicated midline DMN regions including the anterior medial prefrontal cortex (amPFC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) along with the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), precuneus, and cerebellum in supporting a balanced time perspective. More importantly, functional connectivity between the right amPFC and right dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in the FPN was found to associate with balanced time perspective. Our findings suggest the importance of coordinated brain activity in supporting a balanced time perspective.
The Aetiology of Tourette Syndrome and Chronic Tic Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Case-Control Studies
Authors: Jiang Jilong , Chen Mengxin , Huang Huifang , Chen Yanhui
Published: September 2022

(1) Introduction: Tourette syndrome (TS) and chronic tic disorder (CTD) are common neurodevelopmental/-psychiatric disorders. The aetiological factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of TS/CTD are still poorly understood. The possible risk factors for TS/CTD are considered to be a combination of genetic, immunological, psychological and environmental factors. A comprehensive systematic review was conducted to assess the association between aetiological factors and TS/CTD. (2) Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang data, and CNKI, were searched to identify the etiological factors of children and adolescents (≤18 years) with TS/CTD based on a case-control study. Quality assessments were performed according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). (3) Results: According to sample sizes and NOS values, recent evidence may support that genetic factors (BTBD9 and AADAC), immunological factors (streptococcus and mycoplasma pneumoniae infections), environmental factors (conflict, history of perinatal diseases, and family history of neurological and psychiatric diseases and recurrent respiratory infections) and psychological factors (major life events) are associated with the pathogenesis of TS/CTD. (4) Conclusions: Some risk factors in different categories may be the etiological factors of TS/CTD, but there is a lack of studies on the interaction among the factors, which may require more attention in the future.
Study on Deterioration Characteristics of Uniaxial Compression Performance and Microstructure Changes of Red-Bed Mudstone during Gaseous Water Sorption
Authors: Zhu Hongbing , Fu Zhenghao , Yu Fei , Li Sai
Published: September 2022

Previously conducted studies have established that gaseous water sorption of mudstone is widespread in nature. The deterioration of its uniaxial compression properties during gaseous water sorption can cause engineering problems. However, related studies were currently in the initial stage of this research direction. On the one hand, there were few studies on the deterioration characteristics of the uniaxial compression properties of mudstone in this process. The results might not be applicable to all projects. On the other hand, its microstructure changes in this process were unclear. Therefore, to obtain the deterioration characteristics of uniaxial compressive performance during gaseous water sorption for offering scientific reference to the geotechnical engineering of mudstone in the central Sichuan region of China, red-bed mudstone was used as a research material. A swelling test and uniaxial compression tests were carried out. To clarify microstructure changes for advancing the depth of research on the effects of gaseous water on mudstone, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were performed. As a result of this study, formulas were first established that could correctly characterize the deterioration of uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and elastic modulus when the moisture absorption rate increased. Secondly, the dependence was obtained, which was the relationship between both the UCS and elastic modulus and moisture absorption time. Finally, microstructure changes were revealed during gaseous water sorption.
Thrombin Generation and D-Dimer for Prediction of Disease Progression and Mortality in Patients with Metastatic Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Giaccherini Cinzia , Verzeroli Cristina , Russo Laura , Gamba Sara , Tartari Carmen Julia , Bolognini Silvia , Schieppati Francesca , Ticozzi Chiara , Sarmiento Roberta , Celio Luigi , Masci Giovanna , Tondini Carlo , Petrelli Fausto , Giuliani Francesco , D’Alessio Andrea , De Braud Filippo , Santoro Armando , Labianca Roberto , Gasparini Giampietro , Marchetti Marina , Falanga Anna
Published: September 2022

Background: the tight and reciprocal interaction between cancer and hemostasis has stimulated investigations on the possible role of hemostatic biomarkers in predicting specific cancer outcomes, such as disease progression (DP) and overall survival (OS). In a prospective cohort of newly diagnosed metastatic gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients from the HYPERCAN study, we aimed to assess whether the hemostatic biomarker levels measured before starting any anticancer therapy may specifically predict for 6-months DP (6m-DP) and for 1-year OS (1y OS). Methods: plasma samples were collected and tested for thrombin generation (TG) as global hemostatic assay, and for D-dimer, fibrinogen, and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 as hypercoagulation biomarkers. DP and mortality were monitored during follow-up. Results: A prospective cohort of 462 colorectal and 164 gastric cancer patients was available for analysis. After 6 months, DP occurred in 148 patients, providing a cumulative incidence of 24.8% (21.4–28.4). D-dimer and TG endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) were identified as independent risk factors for 6m-DP by multivariate Fine–Gray proportional hazard regression model corrected for age, cancer site, and >1 metastatic site. After 1 year, we observed an OS of 75.7% (71.9–79.0). Multivariate Cox regression analysis corrected for age, site of cancer, and performance status identified D-dimer and ETP as independent risk factors for 1y OS. Patients with one or both hemostatic parameters above the dichotomizing threshold were at higher risk for both 6m-DP and 1-year mortality. Conclusion.: in newly diagnosed metastatic GI cancer patients, pretreatment ETP and D-dimer appear promising candidate biomarkers for predicting 6m-DP and 1y OS. In this setting, for the first time, the role of TG as a prognostic biomarker emerges in a large prospective cohort.