bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet Membrane Proteins as Pain Biomarkers in Patients with Severe Dementia
Authors: Ribeiro Hugo , Alves Raquel , Jorge Joana , Gonçalves Ana Cristina , Sarmento-Ribeiro Ana Bela , Teixeira-Veríssimo Manuel , Dourado Marília , Andrade José Paulo
Published: January 2023

Pain is one of the most frequent health problems, and its evaluation and therapeutic approach largely depend on patient self-report. When it is not possible to obtain a self-report, the therapeutic decision becomes more difficult and limited. This study aims to evaluate whether some membrane platelet proteins could be of value in pain characterization. To achieve this goal, we used 53 blood samples obtained from palliative patients, 44 with non-oncological pain and nine without pain. We observed in patients with pain a decrease in the percentage of platelets expressing CD36, CD49f, and CD61 and in the expression levels of CD49f and CD61 when compared with patients without pain. Besides that, an increase in the percentage of platelets expressing CD62p was observed in patients with pain. These results suggest that the levels of these platelet cluster differentiations (CDs) could have some value as pain biomarkers objectively since they are not dependent on the patient’s participation. Likewise, CD40 seems to have some importance as a biomarker of moderate and/or severe pain. The identification of pain biomarkers such as CD40, CD49f, CD62p and CD61 can lead to an adjustment of the therapeutic strategy, contributing to a faster and more adequate control of pain and reduction in patient-associated suffering.
Optimization of Thyroid Volume Determination by Stitched 3D-Ultrasound Data Sets in Patients with Structural Thyroid Disease
Authors: Seifert Philipp , Ullrich Sophie-Luise , Kühnel Christian , Gühne Falk , Drescher Robert , Winkens Thomas , Freesmeyer Martin
Published: January 2023

Ultrasound (US) is the most important imaging method for the assessment of structural disorders of the thyroid. A precise volume determination is relevant for therapy planning and outcome monitoring. However, the accuracy of 2D-US is limited, especially in cases of organ enlargements and deformations. Software-based “stitching” of separately acquired 3D-US data revealed precise volume determination in thyroid phantoms. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility and accuracy of 3D-US stitching in patients with structural thyroid disease. A total of 31 patients from the clinical routine were involved, receiving conventional 2D-US (conUS), sensor-navigated 3D-US (3DsnUS), mechanically-swept 3D-US (3DmsUS), and I-124-PET/CT as reference standard. Regarding 3DsnUS and 3DmsUS, separately acquired 3D-US images (per thyroid lobe) were merged to one comprehensive data set. Subsequently, anatomical correctness of the stitching process was analysed via secondary image fusion with the I-124-PET images. Volumetric determinations were conducted by the ellipsoid model (EM) on conUS and CT, and manually drawn segmental contouring (MC) on 3DsnUS, 3DmsUS, CT, and I-124-PET/CT. Mean volume of the thyroid glands was 44.1 ± 25.8 mL (I-124-PET-MC = reference). Highly significant correlations (all p < 0.0001) were observed for conUS-EM (r = 0.892), 3DsnUS-MC (r = 0.988), 3DmsUS-MC (r = 0.978), CT-EM (0.956), and CT-MC (0.986), respectively. The mean volume differences (standard deviations, limits of agreement) in comparison with the reference were −10.50 mL (±11.56 mL, −33.62 to 12.24), −3.74 mL (±3.74 mL, −11.39 to 3.78), and 0.62 mL (±4.79 mL, −8.78 to 10.01) for conUS-EM, 3DsnUS-MC, and 3DmsUS-MC, respectively. Stitched 3D-US data sets of the thyroid enable accurate volumetric determination even in enlarged and deformed organs. The main limitation of high time expenditure may be overcome by artificial intelligence approaches.
Distinctive Neuroanatomic Regions Involved in Cocaine-Induced Behavioral Sensitization in Mice
Authors: Santos-Baldaia Renan dos , Wuo-Silva Raphael , Sanabria Viviam , Baldaia Marilia A. , Yokoyama Thais S. , Coppi Antonio Augusto , Hollais André W. , Marinho Eduardo A. V. , Oliveira-Lima Alexandre J. , Longo Beatriz M.
Published: January 2023

The present study aimed to characterize the phenomenon of behavioral sensitization to cocaine and to identify neuroanatomical structures involved in the induction and expression phases of this phenomenon. For this, in experiment 1 (induction phase), mice were treated with saline or cocaine every second day for 15 days (conditioning period), in the open-field or in their home-cages. In experiment 2 (expression phase), the same protocol was followed, except that after the conditioning period the animals were not manipulated for 10 days, and after this interval, animals were challenged with cocaine. Neuroanatomical structures involved in the induction and expression phases were identified by stereological quantification of c-Fos staining in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC), nucleus accumbens core (NAc core and shell (NAc shell), basolateral amygdala (BLA), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Neuroanatomical analysis indicated that in the induction phase, cocaine-conditioned animals had higher expression of c-Fos in the dmPFC, NAc core, BLA, and VTA, whereas in the expression phase, almost all areas had higher expression except for the VTA. Therefore, environmental context plays a major role in the induction and expression of behavioral sensitization, although not all structures that compose the mesolimbic system contribute to this phenomenon.
Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs) and Tissue Regeneration: Mechanisms Mediated by Direct, Paracrine, or Autocrine Effects
Authors: Mattei Vincenzo , Delle Monache Simona
Published: January 2023

Among mesenchymal stem cells, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were discovered most recently [...]
Decreased Maternal Morbidity and Improved Perinatal Results of Magnesium-Free Tocolysis and Classical Hysterotomy in Fetal Open Surgery for Myelomeningocele Repair: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Zamłyński Mateusz , Olejek Anita , Horzelska Ewa , Horzelski Tomasz , Zamłyński Jacek , Bablok Rafał , Maruniak-Chudek Iwona , Olszak-Wąsik Katarzyna , Pastuszka Agnieszka
Published: January 2023

Fetal and maternal risks associated with open fetal surgery (OFS) in the management of meningomyelocele (MMC) are considerable and necessitate improvement. A modified technique of hysterotomy (without a uterine stapler) and magnesium-free tocolysis (with Sevoflurane as the only uterine muscle relaxant) was implemented in our new magnesium-free tocolysis and classical hysterotomy (MgFTCH) protocol. The aim of the study was to assess the introduction of the MgFTCH protocol in reducing maternal and fetal complications. The prospective study cohort (SC) included 64 OFS performed with MgFTCH at the Fetal Surgery Centre Bytom (FSCB) (2015–2020). Fetal and maternal outcomes were compared with the retrospective cohort (RC; n = 46), and data from the Zurich Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy (ZCFDT; n = 40) and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP; n = 100), all using traditional tocolysis. The analysis included five major perinatal complications (Clavien-Dindo classification, C-Dc) which developed before the end of 34 weeks of gestation (GA, gestational age). None of the newborns was delivered before 30 GA. Only two women presented with grade 3 complications and none with 4th or 5th grade (C-Dc). The incidence of perinatal death (3.3%) was comparable with the RC (4.3%) and CHOP data (6.1%). MgFTCH lowers the risk of major maternal and fetal complications.
Theta Activity Dynamics during Embedded Response Plan Processing in Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Wendiggensen Paul , Paulus Theresa , Bluschke Annet , Takacs Adam , Toth-Faber Eszter , Weissbach Anne , Bäumer Tobias , Frings Christian , Roessner Veit , Münchau Alexander , Beste Christian
Published: January 2023

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder. Because motor signs are the defining feature of GTS, addressing the neurophysiology of motor processes is central to understanding GTS. The integration of voluntary motor processes is subject to so-called “binding problems”, i.e., how different aspects of an action are integrated. This was conceptualized in the theory of event coding, in which ‘action files’ accomplish the integration of motor features. We examined the functional neuroanatomical architecture of EEG theta band activity related to action file processing in GTS patients and healthy controls. Whereas, in keeping with previous data, behavioral performance during action file processing did not differ between GTS and controls, underlying patterns of neural activity were profoundly different. Superior parietal regions (BA7) were predominantly engaged in healthy controls, but superior frontal regions (BA9, BA10) in GTS indicated that the processing of different motor feature codes was central for action file processing in healthy controls, whereas episodic processing was more relevant in GTS. The data suggests a cascade of cognitive branching in fronto-polar areas followed by episodic processing in superior frontal regions in GTS. Patients with GTS accomplish the integration of motor plans via qualitatively different neurophysiological processes.
Dabrafenib-Trametinib and Radiotherapy for Oligoprogressive BRAF Mutant Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Rossi Ernesto , Schinzari Giovanni , Cellini Francesco , Balducci Mario , Pasqualoni Mariangela , Maiorano Brigida Anna , Fionda Bruno , Longo Silvia , Deodato Francesco , Di Stefani Alessandro , Peris Ketty , Gambacorta Maria Antonietta , Tortora Giampaolo
Published: January 2023

The clinical management of metastatic melanoma has been changed by BRAF (BRAFi) and MEK inhibitors (MEKi), which represent a standard treatment for BRAF-mutant melanoma. In oligoprogressive melanoma patients with BRAF mutations, target therapy can be combined with loco-regional radiotherapy (RT). However, the association of BRAF/MEK inhibitors and RT needs to be carefully monitored for potential increased toxicity. Despite the availability of some reports regarding the tolerability of RT + target therapy, data on simultaneous RT and BRAFi/MEKi are limited and mostly focused on the BRAFi vemurafenib. Here, we report a series of metastatic melanoma patients who received fractioned RT regimens for oligoprogressive disease in combination with the BRAFi dabrafenib and the MEKi trametinib, which have continued beyond progression. None of the cases developed relevant adverse events while receiving RT or interrupted dabrafenib and trametinib administration. These cases suggest that a long period of dabrafenib/trametinib interruption during radiotherapy for oligoprogressive disease can be avoided. Prospective trials are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of the contemporary administration of BRAF/MEK inhibitors and radiotherapy for oligoprogressive disease.
gp130 Activates Mitochondrial Dynamics for Hepatocyte Survival in a Model of Steatohepatitis
Authors: Shunkina Daria , Dakhnevich Anastasia , Shunkin Egor , Khaziakhmatova Olga , Shupletsova Valeria , Vulf Maria , Komar Alexandra , Kirienkova Elena , Litvinova Larisa
Published: January 2023

Obesity is the main cause of metabolic complications. Fatty liver infiltration is a companion of obesity. NAFLD is associated with impaired energy metabolism with an excess of nutrients. Mitochondrial dynamics are important for the regulation of energy balance, which regulates mitochondrial function, apoptosis, and mitophagy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of gp130 on the components of mitochondrial dynamics in a cellular model of steatohepatitis. Addition of IL-6/gp130 contributed to an increase in the percentage of live cells and a decrease in the percentage of dead and apoptotic cells. Addition of IL-6/gp130 increased the expression of NF-kB1 gene and mitochondrial dynamics markers (MFN2 and TFAM) in HepG2 with tBHP/Oleic. Addition of IL-6 or gp130 reduced the expression of cytoprotector genes (HSF1 and HSP70) in HepG2 cell cultures with tBHP/Oleic. Increased mitochondrial dynamics gene activity protected against HepG2 cell death in the steatohepatitis model. Trans-signaling resulted in increased TFAM and MAPLC3B, and decreased DNM1L gene expression in HepG2 with tBHP/Oleic.
Advances in Nanomaterials for Drug Delivery
Authors: Veloso Sérgio R. S. , Castanheira Elisabete M. S.
Published: January 2023

In recent years, nanomedicine has provided several high-performance tools for overcoming biomedical challenges, resulting in numerous patents [...]
Genetic Variations of the Vitamin D Metabolic Pathway and COVID-19 Susceptibility and Severity: Current Understanding and Existing Evidence
Authors: Charoenngam Nipith , Jaroenlapnopparat Aunchalee , Mettler Sofia K. , Grover Ashna
Published: January 2023

The immunomodulatory and metabolic effects of vitamin D receptor (VDR) activation have been considered beneficial in mitigating the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 infection. Furthermore, vitamin D-binding protein (DBP) has pleiotropic effects on the immune system that may influence inflammation associated with COVID-19. Multiple observational studies have demonstrated an association between low levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and risk and the severity of COVID-19 infection. However, the impact of vitamin D supplementation as an adjunctive treatment for COVID-19 based on evidence from randomized clinical trials is unclear. Equally important is that certain variations of the genes involved in the vitamin D metabolic pathway have been shown to affect immune function and linked with various clinical outcomes, including cardio-metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancers. This indicates inter-individual difference in body response to vitamin D. There is also emerging evidence that common polymorphisms of these genes may influence the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19, although the confidence of these findings is limited by a small number of studies and participants. Further studies are needed to address the potential role of VDR activation and DBP in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 which take into account the genetic variations of vitamin D metabolic pathway.
Newly Diagnosed Monostotic Paget’s Disease of Bone during Living Kidney Donor Candidate Evaluation
Authors: Jędrzejuk Diana , Poznański Paweł , Szewczyk Paweł , Mazanowska Oktawia , Bolanowski Marek , Krajewska Magdalena , Kamińska Dorota
Published: January 2023

The popularity of living-donor organ donation has increased recently as an alternative to deceased-organ donation due to the growing need for organs and a shortage of deceased-donor organs. This procedure requires an in-depth health assessment of candidates, who must be in excellent physical and mental health. We present a potential living-kidney donor withdrawn from donation due to a newly diagnosed Paget’s disease of bone (PDB). The patient underwent computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone scintigraphy, and bone densitometry with trabecular bone score (TBS) assessment. The sole lumbar vertebra affected by PDB was investigated comprehensively, non-invasively, quantitatively, and qualitatively.
Can the Correlation of Periodontopathies with Gastrointestinal Diseases Be Used as Indicators in Severe Colorectal Diseases?
Authors: Rat Lavinia , Moldovan Andrada , Trifan Daniela , Matiș Loredana , Murvai Gelu , Maris Lavinia , Ghitea Timea , Maghiar Marius
Published: January 2023

Gastrointestinal problems are among the most common health problems which can acutely affect the healthy population and chronically involve health risks, seriously affecting the quality of life. Identifying the risk of gastrointestinal diseases in the early phase by indirect methods can increase the healing rate and the quality of life.: The proposal of this study is to verify a correlation between gastrointestinal and periodontal problems and the risk of inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases (IBD). The study was conducted on 123 people who were observed to have gastrointestinal and psychological problems. The participants were divided into three groups, depending on each one’s diagnosis. The control group (CG) was composed of 37 people who did not fit either irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) according to the ROME IV criteria, nor were inflammatory markers positive for IBD. Group 2 (IBS) was composed of 44 participants diagnosed with IBS according to the ROME IV criteria. Group 3 was composed of 42 participants who were diagnosed with IBD. All study participants underwent anthropometric, micro-Ident, and quality of life tests. A directly proportional relationship of the presence of bacteria with IBD patients with the exception of Capnocytophaga spp. and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans was observed. These two bacteria correlated significantly with IBS. Follow-up of the study participants will help determine whether periodontal disease can be used as an indicator of severe colorectal disease. In addition, this study should be continued especially in the case of IBD more thoroughly to follow and reduce the risk of malignancy.
Extracellular Vesicles’ Genetic Cargo as Noninvasive Biomarkers in Cancer: A Pilot Study Using ExoGAG Technology
Authors: Herrero Carolina , Ferreirós Alba , Pérez-Fentes Daniel , León-Mateos Luis , López-López Rafael , Abal Miguel , Alonso-Alconada Lorena
Published: January 2023

The two most developed biomarkers in liquid biopsy (LB)—circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA—have been joined by the analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are lipid-bilayer enclosed structures released by all cell types containing a variety of molecules, including DNA, mRNA and miRNA. However, fast, efficient and a high degree of purity isolation technologies are necessary for their clinical routine implementation. In this work, the use of ExoGAG, a new easy-to-use EV isolation technology, was validated for the isolation of EVs from plasma and urine samples. After demonstrating its efficiency, an analysis of the genetic material contained in the EVs was carried out. Firstly, the sensitivity of the detection of point mutations in DNA from plasma EVs isolated by ExoGAG was analyzed. Then, a pilot study of mRNA expression using the nCounter NanoString platform in EV-mRNA from a healthy donor, a benign prostate hyperplasia patient and metastatic prostate cancer patient plasma and urine samples was performed, identifying the prostate cancer pathway as one of the main ones. This work provides evidence for the value of using ExoGAG for the isolation of EVs from plasma and urine samples, enabling downstream applications of the analysis of their genetic cargo.
Ponciri Fructus Immatarus Sensitizes the Apoptotic Effect of Hyperthermia Treatment in AGS Gastric Cancer Cells through ROS-Dependent HSP Suppression
Authors: Ahn Chae Ryeong , Kim Hyo In , Kim Jai-Eun , Ha In Jin , Ahn Kwang Seok , Park Jinbong , Kim Young Woo , Baek Seung Ho
Published: January 2023

Gastric cancer has been associated with a high incidence and mortality, accompanied by a poor prognosis. Given the limited therapeutic options to treat gastric cancer, alternative treatments need to be urgently developed. Hyperthermia therapy is a potentially effective and safe treatment option for cancer; however, certain limitations need to be addressed. We applied 43 °C hyperthermia to AGS gastric cancer cells combined with Ponciri Fructus Immaturus (PF) to establish their synergistic effects. Co-treatment with PF and hyperthermia synergistically suppressed AGS cell proliferation by inducing extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Additionally, PF and hyperthermia suppressed factors related to metastasis. Cell cycle arrest was determined by flow cytometry, revealing that co-treatment induced arrest at the G2/M phase. As reactive oxygen species (ROS) are critical in hyperthermia therapy, we next examined changes in ROS generation. Co-treatment with PF and hyperthermia increased ROS levels, and apoptotic induction mediated by this combination was partially dependent on ROS generation. Furthermore, heat shock factor 1 and heat shock proteins (HSPs) were notably suppressed following co-treatment with PF and hyperthermia. The HSP-regulating effect was also dependent on ROS generation. Overall, these findings suggest that co-treatment with PF and hyperthermia could afford a promising anticancer therapy for gastric cancer.
The Vascular-Immune Hypothesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mehta Rashi I. , Mehta Rupal I.
Published: January 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating and irreversible neurodegenerative disorder with unknown etiology. While its cause is unclear, a number of theories have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of AD. In large part, these have centered around potential causes for intracerebral accumulation of beta-amyloid (βA) and tau aggregates. Yet, persons with AD dementia often exhibit autopsy evidence of mixed brain pathologies including a myriad of vascular changes, vascular brain injuries, complex brain inflammation, and mixed protein inclusions in addition to hallmark neuropathologic lesions of AD, namely insoluble βA plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Epidemiological data demonstrate that overlapping lesions diminish the βA plaque and NFT threshold necessary to precipitate clinical dementia. Moreover, a subset of persons who exhibit AD pathology remain resilient to disease while other persons with clinically-defined AD dementia do not exhibit AD-defining neuropathologic lesions. It is increasingly recognized that AD is a pathologically heterogeneous and biologically multifactorial disease with uncharacterized biologic phenomena involved in its genesis and progression. Here, we review the literature with regard to neuropathologic criteria and incipient AD changes, and discuss converging concepts regarding vascular and immune factors in AD.
Prevalence of Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Diseases in Chronic Urticaria: Pathogenetic, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Murdaca Giuseppe , Paladin Francesca , Borro Matteo , Ricciardi Luisa , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: January 2023

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined as the almost daily occurrence of widespread wheals, angioedema, or both, for more than 6 weeks. It affects 1–2% of the general population, with a higher prevalence in female patients, and is more frequent patients over 20 years of age. More than half of all cases of chronic idiopathic urticaria are thought to occur due to an autoimmune mechanism, specifically the production of autoantibodies against the high-affinity immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor (FcεRI). The quality of life in these patients is often greatly compromised, also due to the onset of comorbidities represented by other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, celiac disease, and type 1 diabetes, among others. This review aimed to analyze the close correlation between CSU and some autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, in order to encourage a multidisciplinary and multimorbid approach to the patient affected by CSU, which allows not only control of the natural course of the disease, but also any associated comorbidities.
Effect of the Neck Linker on Processive Stepping of Kinesin Motor
Authors: Xie Ping
Published: January 2023

Kinesin motor protein, which is composed of two catalytic domains connected together by a long coiled-coil stalk via two flexible neck linkers (NLs), can step processively on a microtubule towards the plus end by hydrolyzing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules. To understand what the role is that the NL plays in the processive stepping, the dynamics of the kinesin motor are studied theoretically here by considering the mutation or deletion of an N-terminal cover strand that contributes to the docking of the NL in kinesin-1, the extension of the NL in kinesin-1, the mutation of the NL in kinesin-1, the swapping of the NL of kinesin-2 with that of kinesin-1, the joining of the stalk and neck of Ncd that moves towards the minus end of MT to the catalytic domain of kinesin-1, the replacement of catalytic domain of kinesin-1 with that of Ncd, and so on. The theoretical results give a consistent and quantitative explanation of various available experimental results about the effects of these mutations on motor dynamics and, moreover, provide predicted results. Additionally, the processive motility of kinesin-6 MKLP2 without NL docking is also explained. The available experimental data about the effect of NL mutations on the dynamics of the bi-directional kinesin-5 Cin8 are also explained. The studies are critically implicative to the mechanism of the stepping of the kinesin motor.
Recent Progress in Plasmonic based Electrochemiluminescence Biosensors: A Review
Authors: Ma Cheng , Zhang Zhichen , Tan Tingting , Zhu Jun-Jie
Published: January 2023

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) analysis has become a powerful tool in recent biomarker detection and clinic diagnosis due to its high sensitivity and broad linear range. To improve the analytical performance of ECL biosensors, various advanced nanomaterials have been introduced to regulate the ECL signal such as graphene, gold nanomaterials, and quantum dots. Among these nanomaterials, some plasmonic nanostructures play important roles in the fabrication of ECL biosensors. The plasmon effect for the ECL signal includes ECL quenching by resonant energy transfer, ECL enhancement by surface plasmon resonance enhancement, and a change in the polarized angle of ECL emission. The influence can be regulated by the distance between ECL emitters and plasmonic materials, and the characteristics of polarization angle-dependent surface plasmon coupling. This paper outlines the recent advances of plasmonic based ECL biosensors involving various plasmonic materials including noble metals and semiconductor nanomaterials. The detection targets in these biosensors range from small molecules, proteins, nucleic acids, and cells thanks to the plasmonic effect. In addition to ECL biosensors, ECL microscopy analysis with plasmonic materials is also highlighted because of the enhanced ECL image quality by the plasmonic effect. Finally, the future opportunities and challenges are discussed if more plasmonic effects are introduced into the ECL realm.
Cell Immortalization: In Vivo Molecular Bases and In Vitro Techniques for Obtention
Authors: de Bardet Javier Curi , Cardentey Celeste Ramírez , González Belkis López , Patrone Deanira , Mulet Idania Lores , Siniscalco Dario , Robinson-Agramonte María de los Angeles
Published: January 2023

Somatic human cells can divide a finite number of times, a phenomenon known as the Hayflick limit. It is based on the progressive erosion of the telomeric ends each time the cell completes a replicative cycle. Given this problem, researchers need cell lines that do not enter the senescence phase after a certain number of divisions. In this way, more lasting studies can be carried out over time and avoid the tedious work involved in performing cell passes to fresh media. However, some cells have a high replicative potential, such as embryonic stem cells and cancer cells. To accomplish this, these cells express the enzyme telomerase or activate the mechanisms of alternative telomere elongation, which favors the maintenance of the length of their stable telomeres. Researchers have been able to develop cell immortalization technology by studying the cellular and molecular bases of both mechanisms and the genes involved in the control of the cell cycle. Through it, cells with infinite replicative capacity are obtained. To obtain them, viral oncogenes/oncoproteins, myc genes, ectopic expression of telomerase, and the manipulation of genes that regulate the cell cycle, such as p53 and Rb, have been used.
Psychological Effect of Discrete Outbreak Events of COVID-19 on Health Information Search in China
Authors: Liu Yan , Zou Peng
Published: January 2023

Community transmission events occasionally happened in the long-term pandemic, which led to repeated outbreaks of COVID-19. In addition to potential physical threats, the outbreaks could also lead to psychological stress and influence their health behaviors, especially for vulnerable people. It poses a great challenge to both physical and mental health management. However, little is known about the impacts of discrete outbreak events of COVID-19 on people’s reactions to health concerns in the long-term pandemic period. In the current study, we discussed the impact of discrete outbreak events of COVID-19 on health information search for specific symptoms in China from a perceptive of susceptibility. The empirical study was conducted after the first wave of outbreak events ended in China from June to October 2020. Three typical outbreak events happened during this period, and a total of 1800 search index data for 60 cities in China crawled from Baidu search engine were included in the data set. Using the real-world searching data, we conducted a panel data analysis to examine the psychological effect of discrete outbreak events on the symptom search and the moderation effect of the geographical distance. It was found that discrete outbreak events significantly increased the symptom search, and its impacts were various in different regions. More health information search caused by discrete outbreak events was found in cities which were closer to the outbreak area. Implications for healthcare were discussed.
Analysis of Harvesting Methods of Moso Bamboo
Authors: Wang Guofu , Zhang Wei , Diao Xingliang , Ji Min , Fei Benhua , Miao Hu
Published: January 2023

Bamboo is widely used as an excellent engineering material in construction and furniture. The harvesting equipment and the bamboo application process need to be integrated better. According to the application requirements of the original bamboo structure building, the mechanism and practical experience of bamboo harvesting were analyzed using field experiments in bamboo forests and the finite element method. The operation stability and the side-face planeness of the saw were the direct factors affecting bamboo cutting quality. Further, the indirect factors were the clamp saw effect on the cutting surface, the hollow structure and diaphragm of bamboo, the density and moisture, and the swarf pocket.
Evaluation of the Transfer and Occurrence of Opium Alkaloids in Poppy Seed Teas Using Preconcentrations with µSPEed® Followed by GC-MS Analysis
Authors: Casado-Hidalgo Gema , Perestelo Rosa , Morante-Zarcero Sonia , Câmara José S. , Sierra Isabel
Published: January 2023

Intoxication due to the consumption of poppy seed teas has been reported due to their contamination with opium alkaloids (OAs). In this work, an efficient methodology based on microsolid-phase extraction (µSPEed®) followed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has been optimized to quantify five OAs in poppy seed teas. Nine cartridges (C4, C8, C18, silica, APS, PFAs, PS/DVB-RP, PS/DVB-SCX and PS/DVB-SAX), pH levels, cycles and elution solvents were evaluated. The method was validated and applied to study the transfer of OAs by evaluating water temperatures, infusion times and seed amounts. The highest transfer rates (71% for morphine, 96% for thebaine, and 100% for codeine, noscapine and papaverine) were achieved at 90°C, 5 min, with 4 g. These conditions were used to quantify the OAs in four teas prepared from different seeds. A high amount of morphine (1563 µg/L) was found in one tea, indicating that the seeds had a concentration twice the maximum limit, highlighting the need to warn the population of this dangerous practice.
A Novel Gas Recognition Algorithm for Gas Sensor Array Combining Savitzky–Golay Smooth and Image Conversion Route
Authors: Wang Xi , Qian Chen , Zhao Zhikai , Li Jiaming , Jiao Mingzhi
Published: January 2023

In recent years, the application of Deep Neural Networks to gas recognition has been developing. The classification performance of the Deep Neural Network depends on the efficient representation of the input data samples. Therefore, a variety of filtering methods are firstly adopted to smooth filter the gas sensing response data, which can remove redundant information and greatly improve the performance of the classifier. Additionally, the optimization experiment of the Savitzky–Golay filtering algorithm is carried out. After that, we used the Gramian Angular Summation Field (GASF) method to encode the gas sensing response data into two-dimensional sensing images. In addition, data augmentation technology is used to reduce the impact of small sample numbers on the classifier and improve the robustness and generalization ability of the model. Then, combined with fine-tuning of the GoogLeNet neural network, which owns the ability to automatically learn the characteristics of deep samples, the classification of four gases has finally been realized: methane, ethanol, ethylene, and carbon monoxide. Through setting a variety of different comparison experiments, it is known that the Savitzky–Golay smooth filtering pretreatment method effectively improves the recognition accuracy of the classifier, and the gas recognition network adopted is superior to the fine-tuned ResNet50, Alex-Net, and ResNet34 networks in both accuracy and sample processing times. Finally, the highest recognition accuracy of the classification results of our proposed route is 99.9%, which is better than other similar work.
Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Showing Unilateral Motor Dysfunction Prior to Chemotherapy: A Diffusion Tensor Tractography Study
Authors: Kim Jong Bum , Lee Jae Min , Son Su Min
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to evaluate children with lymphoblastic leukemia and examine the potential correlation between corticospinal tract (CST) injury and motor dysfunction prior to chemotherapy using diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). Nineteen consecutive patients with childhood leukemia (mean age 7.483 ± 3.1 years, range 4–12 years) with unilateral motor dysfunction who underwent DTT prior to chemotherapy and twenty healthy individuals (mean age 7.478 ± 1.2 years; range 4–12 years) were enrolled. Motor functions were evaluated by two independent investigators. The cause of neurological dysfunction was identified based on the CST state using mean fractional anisotropy (FA), mean fiber volume (FV), and CST integrity using DTT. All patients showed disrupted integrity and significantly decreased FA and FV in the affected CST compared to the unaffected CST and the control group (p < 0.05). These DTT results also corresponded to patients’ unilateral motor dysfunction. Using DTT, we demonstrated that neurological dysfunction may occur in patients with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia even prior to chemotherapy, and that CST injuries correlate with motor dysfunction in these patients. DTT may be a useful modality for evaluating the neural tract state in pediatric leukemia patients with neurological dysfunction.
Not Every Dyspepsia Is Related to Helicobacter pylori—A Case of Esophageal Inlet Patch in a Female Teenager
Authors: Meliț Lorena Elena , Dincă Andreea Ligia , Borka Balas Reka , Mocanu Simona , Mărginean Cristina Oana
Published: January 2023

Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the main causes of dyspepsia, but it is not the only cause. Esophageal inlet patches are areas of heterotopic gastric mucosa within the esophagus and are commonly located in the cervical part of the esophagus. We report the case of a 16-year-old female, previously known to display symptoms of anxiety, who was admitted to our clinic for dyspeptic symptoms lasting for approximately 1 month in spite of the treatment with proton pump inhibitors. The clinical exam revealed only abdominal tenderness in the epigastric area, while routine laboratory tests showed no abnormalities. The upper digestive endoscopy revealed a well-circumscribed salmon-pink-colored oval lesion of approximately 10 mm in the cervical esophagus, along with hyperemia of the gastric mucosa and biliary reflux. The histopathological exam established the diagnosis of esophageal inlet patch with heterotopic antral-type gastric mucosa and also revealed regenerative changes within the gastric mucosa. We continued to treat the patient with proton pump inhibitors, as well as ursodeoxycholic acid, with favorable evolution. Although rare or underdiagnosed, esophageal inlet patches should never be underestimated and all gastroenterologists should be aware of their presence when performing an upper digestive examination in a patient with dyspeptic symptoms.
Orthodontic Retainers—A Critical Review
Authors: Lyros Ioannis , Tsolakis Ioannis A. , Maroulakos Michael P. , Fora Eleni , Lykogeorgos Theodoros , Dalampira Maria , Tsolakis Apostolos I.
Published: January 2023

The achievement of aesthetic, functional occlusion should not mark the end of the orthodontic intervention. To prevent relapse, retention needs advance planning, and may vary in duration. This review aims to present and comment on the available means of retention. The ever-popular, passive Hawley-like removable appliances are credible in maintaining the desired occlusion. Modifications are the removable appliance Wrap Around, having the labial archwire extending to the premolars; the translucent retainer, Astics, a unique aesthetic Hawley-type device; and the reinforced removable retainer, which features a metallic grid reinforcing the acrylic base. Vacuum-formed retainers are easy to fabricate and are readily prescribed. By contrast, fixed retainers are made of orthodontic wire and composite resin bonded on the lingual or palatal surfaces of the anterior teeth. Patient-related variables need evaluation to select the appropriate retainer, while patients ought to realize the importance of retention and comply with offered guidance. Overall, the orthodontist is responsible for keeping the patient informed on the properties and the duration of retention, even before starting active orthodontic treatment.
Socio-Emotional Competencies Required by School Counsellors to Manage Disruptive Behaviours in Secondary Schools
Authors: Serrano Ángela , Sanz Roberto , Cabanillas Juan Luis , López-Lujan Elena
Published: January 2023

This article identifies the socio-emotional competencies of school counsellors working with children and adolescents. The aim is to address problems related to mental health and conflict and to implement training programmes. The study sample was composed of 149 counsellors working in schools. The instruments used were the CCPES-II (questionnaire on teacher competences) and a series of open-ended questions on conflict resolution. A mixed methodology was used, with a concurrent triangulation design with two phases: a quantitative one (QUAN) and a qualitative one (QUAL). Univariate, bivariate, and correlation quantitative analyses were performed. Parametric and non-parametric tests were applied depending on the number of dependent and independent variables. The qualitative analysis was performed with the NVivo 12 computer programme, which determines word frequencies using a classic content analysis. The results confirm the relationship between socio-emotional training and rapid response to school conflict; the generalised view that conflicts are difficult to anticipate and, thus, to prevent; and the demand for specific training in socio-emotional competences, intervention strategies, more specialised school staff, more time for intervention with and support for families, and more socio-professional recognition.
Is Metabolic Syndrome Useful for Identifying Youths with Obesity at Risk for NAFLD?
Authors: Di Bonito Procolo , Di Sessa Anna , Licenziati Maria Rosaria , Corica Domenico , Wasniewska Malgorzata , Umano Giuseppina Rosaria , Morandi Anita , Maffeis Claudio , Faienza Maria Felicia , Mozzillo Enza , Calcaterra Valeria , Franco Francesca , Maltoni Giulio , Valerio Giuliana
Published: January 2023

The definition of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in childhood is controversial. Recently, a modified version of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definition was proposed using reference data from an international population for high waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure (BP), while the fixed cutoffs for lipids and glucose were not changed. We analyzed MetS prevalence using this modified definition (MetS-IDFm) and its association with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 1057 youths (age 6–17 years) with overweight/obesity (OW/OB). A comparison with another modified definition of MetS according to the Adult Treatment Panel III (MetS-ATPIIIm) was performed. The prevalence of MetS-IDFm was 27.8% and 28.9% by MetS-ATPIIIm. The Odds (95% Confidence Intervals) of NAFLD was 2.70 (1.30–5.60) (p = 0.008) for high WC, 1.68 (1.25–2.26)(p = 0.001) for MetS, 1.54 (1.12–2.11)(p = 0.007) for low HDL-Cholesterol, 1.49 (1.04–2.13)(p = 0.032) for high triglycerides and 1.37 (1.03–1.82)(p = 0.033) for high BP. No substantial difference was found in the prevalence of MetS-IDFm and frequency of NAFLD compared to Mets-ATPIIIm definition. Our data demonstrate that one third of youths with OW/OB have MetS, whichever was the criterion. Neither definition was superior to some of their components in identifying youths with OW/OB at risk for NAFLD.
The Family Caregiving Environment Associates with Adolescent Patients’ Severity of Eating Disorder and Interpersonal Problems: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Baradel Giorgia , Provenzi Livio , Chiappedi Matteo , Orlandi Marika , Vecchio Arianna , Borgatti Renato , Mensi Martina Maria
Published: January 2023

The quality of family interactions may be a critical factor for restrictive eating disorders (REDs). Adolescent patients with RED have interpersonal problems that can be inferred by observing their behaviours during family interactions. To date, the assessment of the association among RED severity, interpersonal problems, and patients’ interactive behaviours in the family is partially explored. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore how adolescent patients’ interactive behaviours observed during the Lausanne Trilogue Play—clinical version (LTPc) were associated with both RED severity and interpersonal problems. Sixty adolescent patients completed the EDI-3 questionnaire to assess RED severity using the Eating Disorder Risk Composite (EDRC) and Interpersonal Problems Composite (IPC) subscales. Moreover, patients and their parents took part in the LTPc, and patients’ interactive behaviours were coded as participation, organization, focal attention, and affective contact in all the LTPc four phases. A significant association emerged between patients’ interactive behaviours during the LTPc triadic phase and both EDRC and IPC. Better patients’ organization and affective contact significantly correlated with lower RED severity and fewer interpersonal problems. These findings suggest that investigating the quality of family relationships and patients’ interactive behaviours may contribute to better identifying adolescent patients at risk for more severe conditions.
The Omni Scale Is Not Suitable for Assessing Self-Perceived Exertion during Physical Activity in Preschoolers
Authors: Ayán Carlos , Diz José C. , Varela Silvia , Sanchez-Lastra Miguel A.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: We aimed to identify the utility, reliability, and validity of an adapted version of the OMNI self-perceived exertion (PE) rating scale in preschoolers. Population and methods: Firstly, 50 (mean age ± standard deviation [SD] = 5.3 ± 0.5 years, 40% girls) performed a cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) test twice, with a one-week interval between assessments, and rated their PE either individually or in groups. Secondly, 69 children (mean age ± SD = 4.5 ± 0.5 years, 49% girls) performed two CRF tests, separated by a one-week interval, twice and rated their self-PE. Thirdly, the heart rate (HR) of 147 children (mean age ± SD = 5.0 ± 0.6 years, 47% girls) were compared against self-rated PE after finishing the CRF test. Results: Self-assessed PE differed when the scale was administered individually (e.g., 82% rated PE with 10) or in groups (42% rated PE with 10). The scale showed poor test–retest reliability (ICC:0.314-0.031). No significant associations were found between the HR and PE ratings. Conclusions: An adapted version of the OMNI scale was found not suitable for assessing self-PE in preschoolers.
Inventory of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Used in the Non-Operative Care of Scoliosis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Parent Eric C. , Vaclavik Matthew , Bourgoin Cody , Hebert Courtney , Bouwmeester Megan , Cheslock Sarah , Collins Rebecca , Potgieter Stefan , Coles Mark , Schreiber Sanja , Donzelli Sabrina , Warner Camille
Published: January 2023

It is unclear which patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can assess non-operative care for scoliosis. Most existing tools aim to assess the effects of surgery. This scoping review aimed to inventory the PROMs used to assess non-operative scoliosis treatment by population and languages. We searched Medline (OVID) as per COSMIN guidelines. Studies were included if patients were diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis or adult degenerative scoliosis and used PROMs. Studies without quantitative data or reporting on fewer than 10 participants were excluded. Nine reviewers extracted the PROMs used, the population(s), language(s), and study setting(s). We screened 3724 titles and abstracts. Of these, the full texts of 900 articles were assessed. Data were extracted from 488 studies, in which 145 PROMs were identified across 22 languages and 5 populations (Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Adult Degenerative Scoliosis, Adult Idiopathic Scoliosis, Adult Spine Deformity, and an Unclear category). Overall, the most used PROMs were the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI, 37.3%), Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22, 34.8%), and the Short Form-36 (SF-36, 20.1%), but the frequency varied by population. It is now necessary to determine the PROMs that demonstrate the best measurement properties in the non-operative treatment of scoliosis to include in a core set of outcomes.
Links between Childhood Obesity, High-Fat Diet, and Central Precocious Puberty
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Magenes Vittoria Carlotta , Hruby Chiara , Siccardo Francesca , Mari Alessandra , Cordaro Erika , Fabiano Valentina , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: January 2023

In recent years, the existing relationship between excess overweight and central precocious puberty (CPP) has been reported, especially in girls. Different nutritional choices have been associated with different patterns of puberty. In particular, the involvement of altered biochemical and neuroendocrine pathways and a proinflammatory status has been described in connection with a high-fat diet (HFD). In this narrative review, we present an overview on the relationship between obesity and precocious pubertal development, focusing on the role of HFDs as a contributor to activating the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis. Although evidence is scarce and studies limited, especially in the paediatric field, the harm of HFDs on PP is a relevant problem that cannot be ignored. Increased knowledge about HFD effects will be useful in developing strategies preventing precocious puberty in children with obesity. Promoting HFD-avoiding behavior may be useful in preserving children’s physiological development and protecting reproductive health. Controlling HFDs may represent a target for policy action to improve global health.