bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis of Immune Thrombocytopenia: Contextualization from a Historical Perspective
Authors: Martínez-Carballeira Daniel , Bernardo Ángel , Caro Alberto , Soto Inmaculada , Gutiérrez Laura
Published: April 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease characterized by an isolated decrease in the platelet count and an increased risk of bleeding. The pathogenesis is complex, affecting multiple components of the immune system and causing both peripheral destruction of platelets and impaired central megakaryopoiesis and platelet production in the bone marrow. Here, we intend to contextualize the current knowledge on the pathophysiology, terminology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and prognosis of ITP from a historical perspective and the first references to the never-stopping garnering of knowledge about this entity. We highlight the necessity to better understand ITP in order to be able to provide ITP patients with personalized treatment options, improving disease prognosis and reducing the incidence or frequency of refractoriness.
Analysis of the Current Status of Sensors and HBIM Integration: A Review Based on Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Rolim Renan , López-González Concepción , Viñals María José
Published: April 2024

This article presents a bibliometric analysis conducted on the implementation of sensor-extracted data in the context of Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) with a focus on the conservation of heritage buildings. The study utilized recognized databases, namely, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus. A bibliometric analysis methodology was applied, employing the VOSviewer 1.6.19 software. The results obtained provide a robust overview of the current state and trends in HBIM and sensor research and enabled the identification of emerging trends in the field of preventive conservation. Three promising trends were identified, establishing connections between this field and 4D spatial data management, energy performance, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, relations with climate change were also detected. These trends underscore a significant convergence of technologies and methodologies in the realm of heritage building conservation. The conclusions serve as a valuable contribution to guiding future research in the field of built heritage conservation.
Assessment of the Effects of Autonomous Mowers on Plant Biodiversity in Urban Lawns
Authors: Gagliardi Lorenzo , Fontanelli Marco , Luglio Sofia Matilde , Frasconi Christian , Raffaelli Michele , Peruzzi Andrea , Caturegli Lisa , Sciusco Giuliano , Federighi Tommaso , Magni Simone , Volterrani Marco
Published: April 2024

Gaining information on the impact of lawn management with autonomous mowers on the floristic composition is crucial to improve their plant biodiversity. In this study, an autonomous mower with a reduced mowing frequency and a more sporadic mowing management system with a ride-on rotary mower were compared in terms of the effect on three dicotyledonous species (Phyla nodiflora, Lotus corniculatus and Sulla coronaria) transplanted onto stands of Bermuda and Manila grass. Regardless of the management system, P. nodiflora achieved the best results in terms of survival for both lawns (74.92 and 58.57% in Manila and Bermuda grass, respectively). In Bermuda grass, a higher percentage of surviving individuals was observed for the ordinary mower management system (42.59%), rather than with the autonomous mower (9.10%), while no differences emerged on Manila grass. On both Manila and Bermuda grass, a higher average percentage of coverage for single individual was observed for the ordinary mower management system (1.60 and 0.37%, respectively) compared to the autonomous mower system (0.55 and 0.08%, respectively). P. nodiflora had a higher percentage of individuals with flowers with the ordinary management system rather than with autonomous mower system both on Manila (60.73% and 33.90%, respectively) and Bermuda grass (48.66 and 3.32%, respectively). Despite a lower impact on the planted species being observed for the ordinary mower management system, encouraging results were obtained with the autonomous mower, for instance regarding the percentage of surviving individuals for P. nodiflora (33.95%) and L. corniculatus (22.08%) on Bermuda grass and the percentage of individuals with flowers for the same two species (33.90 and 13.59%, respectively) on Manila grass. Furthermore, the autonomous mower management system’s primary energy consumption over the year was lower compared to that of the ordinary system both on Manila (200.4 and 614.97 kWh ha−1 year−1, respectively) and Bermuda grass (177.82 and 510.99 kWh ha−1 year−1, respectively).
Perspective of Health Care Professionals and Cancer Survivors on the Usage of Technology in Consultations
Authors: Dons Amalie Roland , Ludwigs Henriette Emmy , Ringvig Katrine , Rossen Sine , Trier Karen , Kayser Lars
Published: April 2024

This study explored the integration of technology in healthcare consultations between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and cancer survivors. The research aimed to understand how technological tools influence the dynamics and environment of cancer survivor rehabilitation consultations. The study used Actor-Network Theory (ANT) to analyze the effects of new technological actors in consultations and Invisible Work Theory to uncover hidden workflows associated with technology implementation. The study combined observations and in-depth interviews with HCPs and cancer survivors conducted in March to May 2022, and a follow-up group interview in November 2023. The study revealed that technology’s presence notably impacts the relationship between HCPs and cancer survivors, with HCPs expressing concerns that technology disrupts the consultation and challenges the relation. Over time, HCPs gradually began to use laptops during consultations to varying degrees, although the resistance to fully embracing technology persisted. This resistance is attributed to perceived pressure from management and a mismatch with established practices. The findings address the challenges in digital literacy and confidence among HCPs to facilitate the effective incorporation of technology and enhance the patient–clinician relationship. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between digital health tools and patient–clinician relationships, highlighting the complexities and opportunities in digitizing healthcare consultations.
Dynamic Ecosystem Adaptation through Allostasis (DEA-A) Model: Conceptual Presentation of an Integrative Theoretical Framework for Global Health Change
Authors: Broc Guillaume , Brunel Lionel , Lareyre Olivier
Published: April 2024

Achieving ambitious goals in Global Health first requires an integrative understanding of how individuals and organizations adapt in a living ecosystem. The absence of a unified framework limits the consideration of the issues in their complexity, which further complicates the planning of Global Health programs aimed at articulating population-based prevention and individual-level (clinical) interventions. The aim of the conceptual contribution is to propose such a model. It introduces the Dynamic Ecosystem of Adaptation through Allostasis (DEA-A) theoretical framework, emphasizing the functional adaptation of individuals and organizations in symbiosis with their living ecosystem. The DEA-A framework articulates two central components to grasp the complexity of adaptation: the internal dynamics (intrasystem level) and the environmental dynamics (ecosystem level). It bridges diverse conceptual approaches, including stress and adaptation models, behavior-change models, and ecosystem-based perspectives. Epistemological considerations raised in the conceptual article prompt a reconsideration of methods and tools for the planning of intervention. Further contributions will present a suitable methodology for the application of the DEA-A framework along with practical recommendations.
Utilization of Antenatal Care and Skilled Birth Delivery Services in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Lateef Monsurat A. , Kuupiel Desmond , Mchunu Gugu G. , Pillay Julian D.
Published: April 2024

Daily, the number of women who die around the world reaches an average of 800; these deaths are a result of obstetric complications in pregnancy and childbirth, and 99% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. This review probes the use of antenatal care (ANC) and skilled birth delivery (SBD) services in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and highlights research gaps using Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological approach. The screening of abstracts and full text was carried out by two independent authors who ensured the eligibility of data extraction from the included articles. An exploration of the data was undertaken with descriptive analyses. In total, 350 potentially eligible articles were screened, and 137 studies were included for data extraction and analysis. From the 137 included studies, the majority were from Ethiopia (n = 40, 29.2%), followed by Nigeria (n = 30, 21.9%). Most of the studies were published between 2019 and 2023 (n = 84, 61%). Significant trends and challenges with ANC and SBD services emerged from the studies. It is revealed that there are wide gaps in the utilization of ANC and SBD services. Policy attention, intervention strategies to improve access, resources, rural–urban disparity, and women’s literacy are recommended to improve the utilization of ANC and SBD services in SSA countries.
Relationship between Psychosocial Factors and Physical Activity among Undergraduate Students from a South African University
Authors: Johannes Chanté , Roman Nicolette V. , Onagbiye Sunday O. , Titus Simone , Leach Lloyd L.
Published: April 2024

Psychosocial factors such as mental health, motivation, and social support are key determinants of behavior that play a significant role in physical activity participation. Limited studies have investigated the relationship between psychosocial factors and physical activity among university students in Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between psychosocial factors and physical activity participation among undergraduate university students at a historically disadvantaged university (HDU) in South Africa. This was a cross-sectional study that used convenience sampling (n = 534, majority female, 53.6% with a mean age of 20.69). The study was conducted through an online, self-administered, and hard-copy, valid questionnaire in September 2022. Data on sociodemographic information were collected. Psychosocial factors were assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress-21 Scale for mental health, the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale for motivation, and the Perceived Social Support Scale for social support. Physical activity (calculated as MET-min/week) was assessed using the international physical activity questionnaire in short form. Results revealed that almost a third (29%) of undergraduate students were physically inactive, 31.1% were minimally active, and 39.9% were in the health-enhancing category. Physical activity was positively related to stress (r = 0.11, p < 0.05) and anxiety (r = 0.10, p < 0.05). Motivational factors were positively related to psychological condition and others’ expectations (r = 0.10, p < 0.05), and depression and others’ expectations (r = 0.11, p < 0.05). Results from this study highlighted that psychosocial factors were related to physical activity participation among undergraduate university students. Psychosocial factors should be considered a coping mechanism when implementing health-promoting strategies.
Lipoxygenases at the Intersection of Infection and Carcinogenesis
Authors: Amoah Abdul-Saleem , Pestov Nikolay B. , Korneenko Tatyana V. , Prokhorenko Igor A. , Kurakin Georgy F. , Barlev Nickolai A.
Published: April 2024

The persisting presence of opportunistic pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a significant threat to many immunocompromised cancer patients with pulmonary infections. This review highlights the complexity of interactions in the host’s defensive eicosanoid signaling network and its hijacking by pathogenic bacteria to their own advantage. Human lipoxygenases (ALOXs) and their mouse counterparts are integral elements of the innate immune system, mostly operating in the pro-inflammatory mode. Taking into account the indispensable role of inflammation in carcinogenesis, lipoxygenases have counteracting roles in this process. In addition to describing the structure-function of lipoxygenases in this review, we discuss their roles in such critical processes as cancer cell signaling, metastases, death of cancer and immune cells through ferroptosis, as well as the roles of ALOXs in carcinogenesis promoted by pathogenic infections. Finally, we discuss perspectives of novel oncotherapeutic approaches to harness lipoxygenase signaling in tumors.
Olive Pomace Extract Contains Low Molecular Weight Peptides and Possesses ACE Inhibitory Activity
Authors: López-Huertas Eduardo , Rubí-Villegas Jose , Sánchez-Moreno Lourdes , Nieto Rosa
Published: April 2024

The aim of the present study was to determine the ACE inhibitory activity of aqueous extracts of olive pomace and to understand whether they represent a good source of bioactive LMW peptides for nutritional and pharmacological applications. We produced a water extract from olive pomace (var. Picual) and obtained its low molecular weight (LMW) fraction (<3 kDa). The calculated yield of extraction was 100.2 ± 7.9 mg of LMW peptides per 100 g of olive pomace. The olive pomace LMW fraction possessed strong ACE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 3.57 ± 0.22 µg prot/mL). The LMW fraction (<3 kDa) was analysed by nanoscale liquid chromatography-Orbitrap coupled with tandem mass spectrometry and de novo sequencing. Thirty new peptides, containing between 7–17 amino acids and molecular masses ranging 778–1354 Da, were identified by the Peaks database algorithm using the available Olea europaea (cv. Farga) genome database. Ten new peptides were also identified by Peaks de novo sequencing. The protein sources of twelve peptides detected in the database by Peaks DB were identified by BLAST search. The ACE inhibitory activity of the identified peptides was predicted by BIOPEP software. We conclude that olive pomace possesses ACE inhibitory activity and contains low molecular weight peptides with (predicted) biological activity. Olive pomace may represent a good source of peptides for nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. In our study, it has been shown that olive pomace possesses ACE inhibitory activity and contains low molecular weight peptides with (predicted) biological activity. Olive pomace may represent a good source of peptides for nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. More research is needed in order to identify the in vivo effects of olive pomace bioactive peptides.
Vascular Heparan Sulfate and Amyloid-β in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: McMillan Ilayda Ozsan , Gearing Marla , Wang Lianchun
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) within the cerebral parenchyma and vasculature, which is known as cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). This study utilized confocal imaging to investigate heparan sulfate (HS) expression within the cerebrovasculature and its associations with Aβ, gender, and ApoE4 genotype in AD. Our investigation revealed elevated levels of HS in the cerebrovasculature of AD patients with severe CAA. Additionally, these patients exhibited higher HS colocalization with Aβ in the cerebrovasculature, including both endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell compartments. Intriguingly, a reversal in the polarized expression of HS within the cerebrovasculature was detected in AD patients with severe CAA. Furthermore, male patients exhibited lower levels of both parenchymal and cerebrovascular HS. Additionally, ApoE4 carriers displayed heightened cerebrovascular Aβ expression and a tendency of elevated cerebrovascular HS levels in AD patients with severe CAA. Overall, these findings reveal potential intricate interplay between HS, Aβ, ApoE, and vascular pathology in AD, thereby underscoring the potential roles of cerebrovascular HS in CAA development and AD pathology. Further study of the underlying mechanisms may present novel therapeutic avenues for AD treatment.
Transmembrane Protein TMEM230, Regulator of Glial Cell Vascular Mimicry and Endothelial Cell Angiogenesis in High-Grade Heterogeneous Infiltrating Gliomas and Glioblastoma
Authors: Cocola Cinzia , Abeni Edoardo , Martino Valentina , Piscitelli Eleonora , Pelucchi Paride , Mosca Ettore , Chiodi Alice , Mohamed Tasnim , Palizban Mira , Porta Giovanni , Palizban Helga , Nano Giovanni , Acquati Francesco , Bruno Antonino , Greve Burkhard , Gerovska Daniela , Magnaghi Valerio , Mazzaccaro Daniela , Bertalot Giovanni , Kehler James , Balbino Cristiana , Arauzo-Bravo Marcos J. , Götte Martin , Zucchi Ileana , Reinbold Rolland A.
Published: April 2024

High-grade gliomas (HGGs) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) are characterized by a heterogeneous and aggressive population of tissue-infiltrating cells that promote both destructive tissue remodeling and aberrant vascularization of the brain. The formation of defective and permeable blood vessels and microchannels and destructive tissue remodeling prevent efficient vascular delivery of pharmacological agents to tumor cells and are the significant reason why therapeutic chemotherapy and immunotherapy intervention are primarily ineffective. Vessel-forming endothelial cells and microchannel-forming glial cells that recapitulate vascular mimicry have both infiltration and destructive remodeling tissue capacities. The transmembrane protein TMEM230 (C20orf30) is a master regulator of infiltration, sprouting of endothelial cells, and microchannel formation of glial and phagocytic cells. A high level of TMEM230 expression was identified in patients with HGG, GBM, and U87-MG cells. In this study, we identified candidate genes and molecular pathways that support that aberrantly elevated levels of TMEM230 play an important role in regulating genes associated with the initial stages of cell infiltration and blood vessel and microchannel (also referred to as tumor microtubule) formation in the progression from low-grade to high-grade gliomas. As TMEM230 regulates infiltration, vascularization, and tissue destruction capacities of diverse cell types in the brain, TMEM230 is a promising cancer target for heterogeneous HGG tumors.
Characterization of Secondary Metabolites of Leaf Buds from Some Species and Hybrids of Populus by Gas Chromatography Coupled with Mass Detection and Two-Dimensional High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Methods with Assessment of Their Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Pobłocka-Olech Loretta , Isidorov Valery A. , Krauze-Baranowska Mirosława
Published: April 2024

Poplars provide medicinal raw plant materials used in pharmacy. Leaf buds are one of the herbal medicinal products collected from poplars, having anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, but there are no quality standards for their production and there is a need to determine their botanical sources. Therefore, the chemical compositions of the leaf buds from four species and varieties of poplars, Populus balsamifera, P. × berolinensis, P. × canadensis ‘Marilandica’, and P. wilsonii were investigated and compared using gas chromatography coupled with mass detection (GC-MS) and two-dimensional high-performance thin-layer chromatography (2D-HPTLC) in order to search for taxa characterized by a high content of biologically active compounds and with a diverse chemical composition that determines their therapeutic effects. The presence of 163 compounds belonging to the groups of flavonoids, phenolic acids derivatives, glycerides, and sesquiterpenes was revealed. Moreover, the conditions for the separation and identification of biologically active compounds occurring in analyzed leaf buds using 2D-HPTLC were optimized and used for metabolomic profiling of the studied poplars, enabling their fast and simple botanical identification. The total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents of examined extracts were determined and their antioxidant capacities were estimated by spectrophotometric DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Based on the analysis of phytochemicals and antioxidant activity, P. × berolinensis buds were selected as the raw plant material for medicinal purposes with the highest content of active compounds and the strongest antioxidant activity.
Nanotechnological Research for Regenerative Medicine: The Role of Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Carton Flavia , Malatesta Manuela
Published: April 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a linear, anionic, non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan occurring in almost all body tissues and fluids of vertebrates including humans. It is a main component of the extracellular matrix and, thanks to its high water-holding capacity, plays a major role in tissue hydration and osmotic pressure maintenance, but it is also involved in cell proliferation, differentiation and migration, inflammation, immunomodulation, and angiogenesis. Based on multiple physiological effects on tissue repair and reconstruction processes, HA has found extensive application in regenerative medicine. In recent years, nanotechnological research has been applied to HA in order to improve its regenerative potential, developing nanomedical formulations containing HA as the main component of multifunctional hydrogels systems, or as core component or coating/functionalizing element of nanoconstructs. This review offers an overview of the various uses of HA in regenerative medicine aimed at designing innovative nanostructured devices to be applied in various fields such as orthopedics, dermatology, and neurology.
Pharmacological Activation of Piezo1 Channels Enhances Astrocyte–Neuron Communication via NMDA Receptors in the Murine Neocortex
Authors: Csemer Andrea , Sokvári Cintia , Maamrah Baneen , Szabó László , Korpás Kristóf , Pocsai Krisztina , Pál Balázs
Published: April 2024

The Piezo1 mechanosensitive ion channel is abundant on several elements of the central nervous system including astrocytes. It has been already demonstrated that activation of these channels is able to elicit calcium waves on astrocytes, which contributes to the release of gliotransmitters. Astrocyte- and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-dependent slow inward currents (SICs) are hallmarks of astrocyte–neuron communication. These currents are triggered by glutamate released as gliotransmitter, which in turn activates neuronal NMDA receptors responsible for this inward current having slower kinetics than any synaptic events. In this project, we aimed to investigate whether Piezo1 activation and inhibition is able to alter spontaneous SIC activity of murine neocortical pyramidal neurons. When the Piezo1 opener Yoda1 was applied, the SIC frequency and the charge transfer by these events in a minute time was significantly increased. These changes were prevented by treating the preparations with the NMDA receptor inhibitor D-AP5. Furthermore, Yoda1 did not alter the spontaneous EPSC frequency and amplitude when SICs were absent. The Piezo1 inhibitor Dooku1 effectively reverted the actions of Yoda1 and decreased the rise time of SICs when applied alone. In conclusion, activation of Piezo1 channels is able to alter astrocyte–neuron communication. Via enhancement of SIC activity, astrocytic Piezo1 channels have the capacity to determine neuronal excitability.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of YTH Gene Family for Abiotic Stress Regulation in Camellia chekiangoleosa
Authors: Cheng Xiang , Yao Sheng , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Dengbao , Xu Shaojun , Yu Qiong , Ji Kongshu
Published: April 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is essential for RNA metabolism in cells. The YTH domain, conserved in the kingdom of Eukaryotes, acts as an m6A reader that binds m6A-containing RNA. In plants, the YTH domain is involved in plant hormone signaling, stress response regulation, RNA stability, translation, and differentiation. However, little is known about the YTH genes in tea-oil tree, which can produce edible oil with high nutritional value. This study aims to identify and characterize the YTH domains within the tea-oil tree (Camellia chekiangoleosa Hu) genome to predict their potential role in development and stress regulation. In this study, 10 members of the YTH family containing the YTH domain named CchYTH1-10 were identified from C. chekiangoleosa. Through analysis of their physical and chemical properties and prediction of subcellular localization, it is known that most family members are located in the nucleus and may have liquid–liquid phase separation. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the CchYTH promoter region revealed that these genes could be closely related to abiotic stress and hormones. The results of expression profiling show that the CchYTH genes were differentially expressed in different tissues, and their expression levels change under drought stress. Overall, these findings could provide a foundation for future research regarding CchYTHs in C. chekiangoleosa and enrich the world in terms of epigenetic mark m6A in forest trees.
5-Hydroxytryptamine Enhances the Pacemaker Activity of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in Mouse Colon
Authors: Huang Xingyou , Choi Seok , Wu Wenhao , Shahi Pawan Kumar , Lee Jun Hyung , Hong Chansik , Jun Jae Yeoul
Published: April 2024

We examined the localization of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptor and its effects on mouse colonic interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) using electrophysiological techniques. Treatment with 5-HT increased the pacemaker activity in colonic ICCs with depolarization of membrane potentials in a dose-dependent manner. Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel blockers blocked pacemaker activity and 5-HT-induced effects. Moreover, an adenylate cyclase inhibitor inhibited 5-HT-induced effects, and cell-permeable 8-bromo-cAMP increased the pacemaker activity. Various agonists of the 5-HT receptor subtype were working in colonic ICCs, including the 5-HT4 receptor. In small intestinal ICCs, 5-HT depolarized the membrane potentials transiently. Adenylate cyclase inhibitors or HCN blockers did not show any influence on 5-HT-induced effects. Anoctamin-1 (ANO1) or T-type Ca2+ channel blockers inhibited the pacemaker activity of colonic ICCs and blocked 5-HT-induced effects. A tyrosine protein kinase inhibitor inhibited pacemaker activity in colonic ICCs under controlled conditions but did not show any influence on 5-HT-induced effects. Among mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors, a p38 MAPK inhibitor inhibited 5-HT-induced effects on colonic ICCs. Thus, 5-HT’s effect on pacemaker activity in small intestinal and colonic ICCs has excitatory but variable patterns. ANO1, T-type Ca2+, and HCN channels are involved in 5-HT-induced effects, and MAPKs are involved in 5-HT effects in colonic ICCs.
Study of Processing Conditions during Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Deer By-Product Tallow for Targeted Changes at the Molecular Level and Properties of Modified Fats
Authors: Novotná Tereza , Mokrejš Pavel , Pavlačková Jana , Gál Robert
Published: April 2024

In most cases, the unused by-products of venison, including deer tallow, are disposed of in rendering plants. Deer tallow contains essential fatty acids and can be used to prepare products for everyday food and advanced applications. This work aimed to process deer tallow into hydrolyzed products using microbial lipases. A Taguchi design with three process factors at three levels was used to optimize the processing: amount of water (8, 16, 24%), amount of enzyme (2, 4, 6%), and reaction time (2, 4, 6 h). The conversion of the tallow to hydrolyzed products was expressed by the degree of hydrolysis. The oxidative stability of the prepared products was determined by the peroxide value and the free fatty acids by the acid value; further, color change, textural properties (hardness, spreadability, stickiness, and adhesiveness), and changes at the molecular level were observed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The degree of hydrolysis was 11.8–49.6%; the peroxide value ranged from 12.3 to 29.5 µval/g, and the color change of the samples expressed by the change in the total color difference (∆E*) was 1.9–13.5. The conditions of enzymatic hydrolysis strongly influenced the textural properties: hardness 25–50 N, spreadability 20–40 N/s, and stickiness < 0.06 N. FTIR showed that there are changes at the molecular level manifested by a decrease in ester bonds. Enzymatically hydrolyzed deer tallow is suitable for preparing cosmetics and pharmaceutical matrices.
Therapeutic Advances and Challenges for the Management of HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Muniz Isis de Araújo Ferreira , Araujo Megan , Bouassaly Jenna , Farshadi Fatemeh , Atique Mai , Esfahani Khashayar , Bonan Paulo Rogerio Ferreti , Hier Michael , Mascarella Marco , Mlynarek Alex , Alaoui-Jamali Moulay , Silva Sabrina Daniela da
Published: April 2024

The use of conventional chemotherapy in conjunction with targeted and immunotherapy drugs has emerged as an option to limit the severity of side effects in patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer (HNC), particularly oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). OPC prevalence has increased exponentially in the past 30 years due to the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This study reports a comprehensive review of clinical trials registered in public databases and reported in the literature (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and ISI web of science databases). Of the 55 clinical trials identified, the majority (83.3%) were conducted after 2015, of which 77.7% were performed in the United States alone. Eight drugs have been approved by the FDA for HNC, including both generic and commercial forms: bleomycin sulfate, cetuximab (Erbitux), docetaxel (Taxotere), hydroxyurea (Hydrea), pembrolizumab (Keytruda), loqtorzi (Toripalimab-tpzi), methotrexate sodium (Trexall), and nivolumab (Opdivo). The most common drugs to treat HPV-associated OPC under these clinical trials and implemented as well for HPV-negative HNC include cisplatin, nivolumab, cetuximab, paclitaxel, pembrolizumab, 5-fluorouracil, and docetaxel. Few studies have highlighted the necessity for new drugs specifically tailored to patients with HPV-associated OPC, where molecular mechanisms and clinical prognosis are distinct from HPV-negative tumors. In this context, we identified most mutated genes found in HPV-associated OPC that can represent potential targets for drug development. These include TP53, PIK3CA, PTEN, NOTCH1, RB1, FAT1, FBXW7, HRAS, KRAS, and CDKN2A.
Edge-Guided Cell Segmentation on Small Datasets Using an Attention-Enhanced U-Net Architecture
Authors: Zhou Yiheng , Ma Kainan , Sun Qian , Wang Zhaoyuxuan , Liu Ming
Published: April 2024

Over the past several decades, deep neural networks have been extensively applied to medical image segmentation tasks, achieving significant success. However, the effectiveness of traditional deep segmentation networks is substantially limited by the small scale of medical datasets, a limitation directly stemming from current medical data acquisition capabilities. To this end, we introduce AttEUnet, a medical cell segmentation network enhanced by edge attention, based on the Attention U-Net architecture. It incorporates a detection branch enhanced with edge attention and a learnable fusion gate unit to improve segmentation accuracy and convergence speed on small medical datasets. The AttEUnet allows for the integration of various types of prior information into the backbone network according to different tasks, offering notable flexibility and generalization ability. This method was trained and validated on two public datasets, MoNuSeg and PanNuke. The results show that AttEUnet significantly improves segmentation performance on small medical datasets, especially in capturing edge details, with F1 scores of 0.859 and 0.888 and Intersection over Union (IoU) scores of 0.758 and 0.794 on the respective datasets, outperforming both convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and transformer-based baseline networks. Furthermore, the proposed method demonstrated a convergence speed over 10.6 times faster than that of the baseline networks. The edge attention branch proposed in this study can also be added as an independent module to other classic network structures and can integrate more attention priors based on the task at hand, offering considerable scalability.
Sublethal Effects of Spirotetramat, Cyantraniliprole, and Pymetrozine on Aphis gossypii (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Kim Se Eun , Kim Hyun Kyung , Kim Gil Hah
Published: April 2024

The toxicity and sublethal effects of three insecticides (spirotetramat, cyantraniliprole, and pymetrozine) on Aphis gossypii, a major agricultural pest, were investigated. The nymphal stage showed greater susceptibility than the adult stage to all the insecticides, with a difference of up to 8.9 times at the LC50 of spirotetramat. The effects of sublethal concentrations (LC10, LC30, LC50, and LC70) of the insecticides on the on the developmental period, survival rate, adult longevity, fecundity, and deformity rate were compared with those of the control. Compared with the control, cyantraniliprole and pymetrozine did not significantly affect the developmental period in the parental or F1 generation when applied at the nymphal stage at any concentration. Nonviable nymphs occurred in the F1 generation when both nymphs and adults were treated with spirotetramat and cyantraniliprole but not in the F2 generation. The age-specific maternity (lxmx) of A. gossypii treated with sublethal concentrations (LC10, LC30) decreased with increasing concentration. Spirotetramat at the LC30 resulted in significant differences in all life table parameters (R0, rm, λ, T, DT) compared with those of the control. Similarly, compared with that of the control (43.8), the net reproductive rate (R0) significantly decreased for all the insecticides except cyantraniliprole at the LC10 (37.5). Therefore, this study indicated that sublethal concentrations (over the LC30) of spirotetramat, cyantraniliprole, or pymetrozine might be useful for the density management of A. gossypii.
Unique Features of Cardiovascular Involvement and Progression in Children with Marfan Syndrome Justify Dedicated Multidisciplinary Care
Authors: Baban Anwar , Parlapiano Giovanni , Cicenia Marianna , Armando Michela , Franceschini Alessio , Pacifico Concettina , Panfili Arianna , Zinzanella Gaetano , Romanzo Antonino , Fusco Adelaide , Caiazza Martina , Perri Gianluigi , Galletti Lorenzo , Digilio Maria Cristina , Buonuomo Paola Sabrina , Bartuli Andrea , Novelli Antonio , Raponi Massimiliano , Limongelli Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Marfan syndrome (MIM: # 154700; MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease representing the most common form of heritable connective tissue disorder. The condition presents variable multiorgan expression, typically involving a triad of cardiovascular, eye, and skeletal manifestations. Other multisystemic features are often underdiagnosed. Moreover, the disease is characterized by age related penetrance. Diagnosis and management of MFS in the adult population are well-described in literature. Few studies are focused on MFS in the pediatric population, making the clinical approach (cardiac and multiorgan) to these cases challenging both in terms of diagnosis and serial follow-up. In this review, we provide an overview of MFS manifestations in children, with extensive revision of major organ involvement (cardiovascular ocular and skeletal). We attempt to shed light on minor aspects of MFS that can have a significant progressive impact on the health of affected children. MFS is an example of a syndrome where an early personalized approach to address a dynamic, genetically determined condition can make a difference in outcome. Applying an early multidisciplinary clinical approach to MFS cases can prevent acute and chronic complications, offer tailored management, and improve the quality of life of patients.
Ten-Year Experience with Endomyocardial Biopsy after Orthotopic Heart Transplantation: Comparison between Trans-Jugular and Trans-Femoral Approach
Authors: Galeone Antonella , Bernabei Annalisa , Pesarini Gabriele , Raimondi Lucchetti Marcello , Onorati Francesco , Luciani Giovanni Battista
Published: April 2024

Background: Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is considered the gold standard for monitoring allograft rejection after heart transplantation. EMB is an invasive procedure that may be performed via a trans-jugular or a trans-femoral approach with a complication rate reported as less than 6%. The aim of this study was to evaluate the complication rate after EMBs in heart recipients and to compare the results of EMBs performed via a trans-jugular or a trans-femoral approach. Methods: Medical records of heart recipients undergoing EMBs between January 2012 and December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. EMB-related complications were classified as major (death, pericardial effusion, hemopericardium, cardiac tamponade requiring a pericardiocentesis or an urgent cardiac surgery, ventricular arrythmias, permanent atrio-ventricular block requiring permanent pacing, hemothorax, pneumothorax and retroperitoneal bleeding) and minor (de novo tricuspid regurgitation, arrhythmias, coronary artery fistula, vascular access site complications). Results: A total of 1698 EMBs were performed during the study period at our institution in 212 heart recipients. There were 927 (55%) EMBs performed through a trans-jugular approach (TJ group) and 771 (45%) EMBs performed through a trans-femoral approach (TF group). A total of 60 (3.5%) complications were recorded, including nine (0.5%) major complications (six cardiac tamponades, two pneumothorax and one retroperitoneal bleeding) and 51 (3%) minor complications (seven coronary fistulae, five de novo tricuspid regurgitation, four supraventricular arrythmias and thirty-five vascular access site complications). No difference was found in total (38 [4%] vs. 22 [3%]; p = 0.16) and major (6 [1%} vs. 3 [0.4%]; p = 0.65) complications (32 [3%] vs. 19 [2%]; p = 0.23) between the TJ group and the TF group. No difference was found in male sex, age at time of EMB and time from HT between complicated and not complicated EMBs. Conclusions: EMBs represent a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. In our experience, EMBs performed via a trans-jugular approach are as safe as the trans-femoral approach.
Nursing Practice of Airway Care Interventions and Prone Positioning in ICU Patients with COVID-19—A Dutch National Survey
Authors: Esmeijer Andrea A. , van der Ven Fleur , Koornstra Eveline , Kuipers Laurien , van Oosten Paula , Swart Pien , Valk Christel M. , Schultz Marcus J. , Paulus Frederique , Stilma Willemke
Published: April 2024

Background: Airway care interventions and prone positioning are used in critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) to improve oxygenation and facilitate mucus removal. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the decision-making process regarding the practice of airway care interventions and prone positioning was challenging. Objective: To provide an overview of the practice of airway care interventions and prone positioning during the second wave of the pandemic in the Netherlands. Method: Web-based survey design. Seventy ICU nurses, each representing one intensive care in the Netherlands, were contacted for participation. Potential items were generated based on a literature search and formulated by a multidisciplinary team. Questions were pilot tested for face and construct validity by four intensive care nurses from four different hospitals. Results: The response rate was 53/77 (69%). This survey revealed widespread use of airway care interventions in the Netherlands in COVID-19 patients, despite questionable benefits. Additionally, prone positioning was used in invasively and non–invasively ventilated patients. Conclusions: The use of airway care interventions and prone positioning is time consuming and comes with the production of waste. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness, workload, and environmental impact of airway care interventions and prone positioning.
The Interplay of Sports and Nutrition in Neurological Health and Recovery
Authors: Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier , Redondo-Flórez Laura , Beltrán-Velasco Ana Isabel , Belinchón-deMiguel Pedro , Ramos-Campo Domingo Jesús , Curiel-Regueros Agustín , Martín-Rodríguez Alexandra , Tornero-Aguilera José Francisco
Published: April 2024

This comprehensive review explores the dynamic relationship between sports, nutrition, and neurological health. Focusing on recent clinical advancements, it examines how physical activity and dietary practices influence the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of various neurological conditions. The review highlights the role of neuroimaging in understanding these interactions, discusses emerging technologies in neurotherapeutic interventions, and evaluates the efficacy of sports and nutritional strategies in enhancing neurological recovery. This synthesis of current knowledge aims to provide a deeper understanding of how lifestyle factors can be integrated into clinical practices to improve neurological outcomes.
Updated Estimates of Radiation Risk for Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease: Implications for Cardiology Practice
Authors: Picano Eugenio , Vano Eliseo
Published: April 2024

This review aims to furnish an updated assessment of the societal healthcare load, including cancer and cardiovascular disease resulting from diagnostic radiologic operations. The previously projected additional cancer risk of 0.9% in a United States 2004 study referred to radiological conditions in 1996 with an X-ray exposure of 0.50 millisievert (mSv) per capita annually. Radiological exposure (radiology + nuclear medicine) has escalated to 2.29 mSv (2016) per capita per year. Low-dose exposures were previously assumed to have a lower biological impact, since they allow the DNA repair system to mitigate molecular damage. However, epidemiological data matured and disproved this assumption, as shown by updated cancer risk assessments derived from the World Health Organization 2013 and the German Institute of Radioprotection 2014 data. The risk of cardiovascular disease aligns within the same order of magnitude as cancer risk and compounds it, as shown by a comprehensive meta-analysis of 93 studies. The collective societal burden arising from the augmented risks of cancer and cardiovascular disease attributable to diagnostic radiology and nuclear medicine is higher than previously thought.
Association of Antipsychotic Polypharmacy and Two-Year All-Cause Mortality: A Population-Based Cohort Study of 33,221 Italian Continuous Users
Authors: Parabiaghi Alberto , Monzio Compagnoni Matteo , D’Avanzo Barbara , Caggiu Giulia , Galbussera Alessia A. , Tettamanti Mauro , Fortino Ida , Barbato Angelo
Published: April 2024

Background: Differences in survival between patients treated with antipsychotic monotherapy vs. polytherapy are debated. This study aimed to examine the association of antipsychotic polytherapy with 2-year all-cause mortality in a population-based cohort. Methods: Data were retrieved from healthcare databases of four local health units of Lombardy, Italy. Subjects aged 18–79 years who received continuous antipsychotic prescriptions in 2018 were identified. Overall survival among patients with antipsychotic monotherapy vs. polytherapy was compared. A multivariate Cox PH model was used to estimate the association between antipsychotic therapy, or antipsychotic use (continuous vs. non-continuous), and all-cause mortality. Adjustments were made for the presence of metabolic disturbances, total antipsychotic dosage amount (olanzapine equivalent doses), age, and sex. Results: A total of 49,875 subjects receiving at least one prescription of antipsychotics during 2018 were identified. Among the 33,221 patients receiving continuative antipsychotic prescriptions, 1958 (5.9%) experienced death from any cause at two years. Patients with continuous antipsychotic use had a 1.13-point increased mortality risk compared with non-continuous users. Patients treated with antipsychotic polytherapy showed an adjusted mortality risk increased by 17% (95% CI: 2%, 33%) compared to monotherapy. Conclusions: The study highlights the potential risks associated with antipsychotic polypharmacy, emphasizing the importance of optimizing drug prescriptions to improve patient safety and reduce mortality rates in individuals receiving antipsychotic therapy.
Sequencing Treatments in Patients with Advanced Well-Differentiated Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor (pNET): Results from a Large Multicenter Italian Cohort
Authors: Panzuto Francesco , Andrini Elisa , Lamberti Giuseppe , Pusceddu Sara , Rinzivillo Maria , Gelsomino Fabio , Raimondi Alessandra , Bongiovanni Alberto , Davì Maria Vittoria , Cives Mauro , Brizzi Maria Pia , Persano Irene , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Puliafito Ivana , Tafuto Salvatore , Campana Davide
Published: April 2024

Background: The optimal treatment sequencing for advanced, well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) is unknown. We performed a multicenter, retrospective study to evaluate the best treatment sequence in terms of progression-free survival to first-line (PFS1) and to second-line (PFS2), and overall survival among patients with advanced, well-differentiated pNETs. Methods: This multicenter study retrospectively analyzed the prospectively collected data of patients with sporadic well-differentiated pNETs who received at least two consecutive therapeutic lines, with evidence of radiological disease progression before change of treatment lines. Results: Among 201 patients, 40 (19.9%) had a grade 1 and 149 (74.1%) a grade 2 pNET. Primary tumor resection was performed in 98 patients (48.8%). First-line therapy was performed in 128 patients with somatostatin analogs (SSA), 35 received SSA + radioligand therapy (RLT), 21 temozolomide-based chemotherapy, and 17 SSA + targeted therapy. PFS was significantly longer in patients with grade 1 pNETs compared to those with grade 2, in patients who received primary tumor surgery, and in patients treated with RLT compared to other treatments. At multivariate analysis, the use of upfront RLT was independently associated with improved PFS compared to SSA. Second-line therapy was performed in 94 patients with SSA + targeted therapy, 35 received chemotherapy, 45 SSA + RLT, and 27 nonconventional-dose SSA or SSA switch. PFS was significantly longer in patients treated with RLT compared to other treatments. At multivariate analysis, the type of second-line therapy was independently associated with the risk for progression. OS was significantly longer in patients who received primary tumor surgery, with Ki67 < 10%, without extrahepatic disease, and in patients who received SSA–RLT sequence compared to other sequences. Conclusions: In this large, multicenter study, RLT was associated with better PFS compared to other treatments, and the SSA–RLT sequence was associated with the best survival outcomes in patients with pNETs with Ki67 < 10%. Primary tumor surgery was also associated with improved survival.