bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Consolidation Performance of Acrylic-Polymer-Modified Materials and Their Concrete Impermeability Repair Characteristics
Authors: Yan Dong , Lai Lipeng , Xiao Xuedang , Zhang Lei , Zhao Zilong , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2023

Acrylic materials exhibit favorable grouting repair performance. However, their curing products are easily inclined to drying shrinkage, and their concrete impermeability repair characteristics have seldom been investigated. To improve material properties, reveal the impermeability repair mechanism, and address drying shrinkage, this study proposed the addition of styrene–acrylate copolymer emulsion (styrene–acrylic emulsion) to the grouting material to prepare two-component acrylate grouting materials. Using orthogonal and single-factor tests combined with physical and mechanical properties, the mechanical properties and impermeability repair performance (physical and mechanical properties combined) of grouting materials were analyzed and studied, and the optimal ratio of each component of acrylate grouting materials was determined. Results show that (1) the hydrogel produced by the reaction of sodium methacrylate with hydroxyethyl acrylate has good physical and mechanical properties. (2) With the increase in the accelerator dosage, the setting time of slurry initially decreases and then increases; as the initiator dosage increases, the setting time of slurry decreases, which is negatively correlated with the initiator dosage. (3) Talcum powder can improve the physical and chemical properties of gel and enhance the reliability and durability of acrylate grouting materials, and the comprehensive performance is the best at a dosage of 3%. (4) Styrene–acrylic emulsion can increase the solid content and reduce the volume drying shrinkage when added to grouting materials. The fractured impermeable specimens were repaired by grouting with prepared acrylate grouting materials and cured for 24 h for the impermeability test, and the water pressure for the 24 h impermeability repair was 1.0 MPa. This study’s results provide important reference and basis for revealing the impermeability principle of acrylate grouting materials and evaluating their impermeability.
New SLC22A12 (URAT1) Variant Associated with Renal Hypouricemia Identified by Whole-Exome Sequencing Analysis and Bioinformatics Predictions
Authors: Perdomo-Ramírez Ana , Ramos-Trujillo Elena , Claverie-Martín Félix
Published: September 2023

Renal hypouricemia (RHUC) is a rare hereditary disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the SLC22A12 (RHUC type 1) or SLC2A9 (RHUC type 2) genes, encoding urate transporters URAT1 and GLUT9, respectively, that reabsorb urate in the renal proximal tubule. The characteristics of this disorder are low serum urate levels, high renal fractional excretion of urate, and occasional severe complications such as nephrolithiasis and exercise-induced acute renal failure. In this study, we report two Spanish (Caucasian) siblings and a Pakistani boy with clinical characteristics compatible with RHUC. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) analysis identified two homozygous variants: a novel pathogenic SLC22A12 variant, c.1523G>A; p.(S508N), in the two Caucasian siblings and a previously reported SLC2A9 variant, c.646G>A; p.(G216R), in the Pakistani boy. Our findings suggest that these two mutations cause RHUC through loss of urate reabsorption and extend the SLC22A12 mutation spectrum. In addition, this work further emphasizes the importance of WES analysis in clinical settings.
Integrated Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of Salinity Tolerance in Response to Foliar Application of β-Alanine in Cotton Seedlings
Authors: Ren Wei , Chen Li
Published: September 2023

Salinity is amongst the serious abiotic stresses cotton plants face, impairing crop productivity. Foliar application of β-alanine is employed to improve salt tolerance in various crops, but the exact mechanism behind it is not yet completely understood. An advanced line SDS-01 of upland cotton Gossypium hirsutum L. was utilized to determine its salt tolerance. Foliar treatment with the β-alanine solution at different concentrations was applied to the seedlings stressed with 0.8% NaCl solution. On the 10th day of treatment, samples were collected for transcriptome and metabolome analyses. β-alanine solution at a concentration of 25 mM was found to be the best treatment with the lowest mortality rate and highest plant height and above-ground biomass under salt stress. Both differentially expressed genes and accumulated metabolites analyses showed improved tolerance of treated seedlings. The photosynthetic efficiency improved in seedlings due to higher expression of photosynthesis-antenna proteins and activation of hormones signal transduction after treatment with β-alanine. Highly expressed transcription factors observed were MYB, HD-ZIP, ARF, MYC, EREB, DELLA, ABF, H2A, H4, WRKY, and HK involved in the positive regulation of salinity tolerance in β-alanine-treated seedlings. Furthermore, compared to the control, the high accumulation of polyamines, coumarins, organic acids, and phenolic compounds in the β-alanine-treated seedlings helped regulate cellular antioxidant (glutathione and L-Cysteine) production. Hence, to improve salt tolerance and productivity in cotton, foliar application of β-alanine at the seedling stage can be a valuable management practice.
Carbon Emission Patterns and Carbon Balance Zoning in Urban Territorial Spaces Based on Multisource Data: A Case Study of Suzhou City, China
Authors: Zhang Zhenlong , Yu Xiaoping , Hou Yanzhen , Chen Tianhao , Lu Yun , Sun Honghu
Published: September 2023

The concept of green and low-carbon development is integrated into territorial spatial planning and district control research. It is one of the systematic policy tools for emission reduction and carbon sequestration, greatly contributing to achieving the double carbon goal. This paper presents a method for measuring the carbon emissions of urban territorial spaces using multisource big data, aiming to identify the spatial patterns and levels of carbon emissions at microspatial scales. The spatial patterns of carbon emissions were used to construct a carbon balance zoning method to evaluate the regional differences in the spatial distribution of carbon emissions, taking Suzhou as an example to achieve carbon balance zoning at the micro scale of the city. Based on our research, the following was determined: (1) Suzhou’s total carbon emissions in 2020 was approximately 240.3 million tons, with the industrial sector accounting for 81.32% of these emissions. The total carbon sink was about 0.025 million tons. (2) In Suzhou City, the high-value plots of carbon emissions are mainly located in industrial agglomeration areas. By contrast, low-value plots are primarily located in suburban areas and various carbon sink functional areas, exhibiting a scattered distribution. (3) The territorial space unit was divided into four functional areas of carbon balance, with 36 low-carbon economic zone units accounting for 37.11%, 29 carbon-source control zone units accounting for 29.90%, 14 carbon-sink functional zone units accounting for 14.43%, and 18 high-carbon optimization zone units accounting for 18.56%. As a result of this study, carbon balance zoning was achieved at the grassroots space level, which will assist the city in low-carbon and refined urban governance. Some ideas and references are also provided to formulate policies for low-carbon development at the micro scale of a city.
BRCA1 the Versatile Defender: Molecular to Environmental Perspectives
Authors: Zhong Amy X. , Chen Yumay , Chen Phang-Lang
Published: September 2023

The evolving history of BRCA1 research demonstrates the profound interconnectedness of a single protein within the web of crucial functions in human cells. Mutations in BRCA1, a tumor suppressor gene, have been linked to heightened breast and ovarian cancer risks. However, despite decades of extensive research, the mechanisms underlying BRCA1’s contribution to tissue-specific tumor development remain elusive. Nevertheless, much of the BRCA1 protein’s structure, function, and interactions has been elucidated. Individual regions of BRCA1 interact with numerous proteins to play roles in ubiquitination, transcription, cell checkpoints, and DNA damage repair. At a cellular scale, these BRCA1 functions coordinate tumor suppression, R-loop prevention, and cellular differentiation, all of which may contribute to BRCA1’s role in cancer tissue specificity. As research on BRCA1 and breast cancer continues to evolve, it will become increasingly evident that modern materials such as Bisphenol A should be examined for their relationship with DNA stability, cancer incidence, and chemotherapy. Overall, this review offers a comprehensive understanding of BRCA1’s many roles at a molecular, cellular, organismal, and environmental scale. We hope that the knowledge gathered here highlights both the necessity of BRCA1 research and the potential for novel strategies to prevent and treat cancer in individuals carrying BRCA1 mutations.
Effects of Exogenous Application of Glycine Betaine Treatment on ‘Huangguoggan’ Fruit during Postharvest Storage
Authors: Zheng Zhendong , Wang Tie , Liu Miaoyi , Xu Xiaozhu , Wang Jun , Sun Guochao , He Siya , Liao Ling , Xiong Bo , Wang Xun , He Jiaxian , Wang Zhihui , Zhang Mingfei
Published: September 2023

Loss of quality in citrus fruit is a common occurrence during postharvest storage due to oxidative stress and energy consumption. In recent years, glycine betaine (GB) has been widely applied to postharvest horticulture fruit. This study aimed to investigate the effect of GB treatment (10 mM and 20 mM) on the quality and antioxidant activity of ‘Huangguogan’ fruit during postharvest storage at room temperature. Our results indicated that both 10 mM and 20 mM treatments effectively reduced weight and firmness losses and maintained total soluble solid (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and ascorbic acid contents. Additionally, GB treatment significantly increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, maintained higher levels of total phenols and total flavonoids, and led to slower accumulation of H2O2. A transcriptome analysis conducted at 28 days after treatment (DAT)identified 391 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between 20 mM GB (GB-2) and the control (CK) group. These DEGs were enriched in various pathways, particularly related to oxygen oxidoreductase, peroxidase activity, and flavonoid biosynthesis. Overall, the application of GB proved beneficial in enhancing the storability and extending the shelf life of ‘Huangguogan’ fruit.
Machine Translation of Electrical Terminology Constraints
Authors: Wang Zepeng , Chen Yuan , Zhang Juwei
Published: September 2023

In practical applications, the accuracy of domain terminology translation is an important criterion for the performance evaluation of domain machine translation models. Aiming at the problem of phrase mismatch and improper translation caused by word-by-word translation of English terminology phrases, this paper constructs a dictionary of terminology phrases in the field of electrical engineering and proposes three schemes to integrate the dictionary knowledge into the translation model. Scheme 1 replaces the terminology phrases of the source language. Scheme 2 uses the residual connection at the encoder end after the terminology phrase is replaced. Scheme 3 uses a segmentation method of combining character segmentation and terminology segmentation for the target language and uses an additional loss module in the training process. The results show that all three schemes are superior to the baseline model in two aspects: BLEU value and correct translation rate of terminology words. In the test set, the highest accuracy of terminology words was 48.3% higher than that of the baseline model. The BLEU value is up to 3.6 higher than the baseline model. The phenomenon is also analyzed and discussed in this paper.
The Analytical Application of Quenching Phenomena of CdTe Quantum Dot Nanoparticles
Authors: Humajová Petra , Baliak Patrik , Yumdjo Youmbissi Ivan Landry , Jebavá Alžběta , Řezáčová Lenka , Lubal Přemysl
Published: September 2023

This paper is devoted to the synthesis and application of CdTe quantum dot (QD) nanoparticles covered with organic ligands containing a thiol group, mostly mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) and glutathione (GSH). The simple one-step synthetic procedure was optimized to prepare greater quantities of nanoparticles for analytical purposes. The prepared CdTe QD nanoparticles were characterized by various analytical techniques, and their interaction with some metal ions (Cu(II), Pb(II), and Hg(II)) was studied by using luminescence spectroscopy in both steady-state and time-resolved modes. The mathematical analysis of the quenching effect of Cu(II) ions on the luminescence of CdTe QD nanoparticles shows that the static contribution is mostly responsible for the overall effect, but experimental conditions, such as pH, ionic strength, or the concentration of nanoparticles in aqueous solution, could also be important. The presence of metal ions in the form of a metal complex species could play an important role, and this phenomenon could be used to tune the selectivity of the quenching process. These findings have been utilized for the development of an analytical procedure for the detection and quantitative analysis of Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions in environmental water samples. In practice, this procedure could be easily implemented in a microplate format to increase throughput.
Differential Spreading of Microsatellites in Holocentric Chromosomes of Chagas Disease Vectors: Genomic and Evolutionary Implications
Authors: Panzera Francisco , Cuadrado Ángeles , Mora Pablo , Palomeque Teresa , Lorite Pedro , Pita Sebastián
Published: September 2023

This study focused on analyzing the distribution of microsatellites in holocentric chromosomes of the Triatominae subfamily, insect vectors of Chagas disease. We employed a non-denaturing FISH technique to determine the chromosomal distribution of sixteen microsatellites across twenty-five triatomine species, involving five genera from the two principal tribes: Triatomini and Rhodniini. Three main hybridization patterns were identified: strong signals in specific chromosomal regions, dispersed signals dependent on microsatellite abundance and the absence of signals in certain chromosomal regions or entire chromosomes. Significant variations in hybridization patterns were observed between Rhodniini and Triatomini species. Rhodniini species displayed weak and scattered hybridization signals, indicating a low abundance of microsatellites in their genomes. In contrast, Triatomini species exhibited diverse and abundant hybridization patterns, suggesting that microsatellites are a significant repetitive component in their genomes. One particularly interesting finding was the high abundance of GATA repeats, and to a lesser extent AG repeats, in the Y chromosome of all analyzed Triatomini species. In contrast, the Y chromosome of Rhodniini species did not show enrichment in GATA and AG repeats. This suggests that the richness of GATA repeats on the Y chromosome likely represents an ancestral trait specific to the Triatomini tribe. Furthermore, this information can be used to elucidate the evolutionary relationships between Triatomini and other groups of reduviids, contributing to the understanding of the subfamily’s origin. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the composition and distribution of microsatellites within Triatominae genomes, shedding light on their significance in the evolutionary processes of these species.
Unrecognized Pulmonary Hypertension in Non-Cardiac Surgical Patients: At-Risk Populations, Preoperative Evaluation, Intraoperative Management and Postoperative Complications
Authors: Kaw Roop K.
Published: September 2023

Pulmonary hypertension is a well-established independent risk factor for perioperative complications after elective non-cardiac surgery. Patients undergoing cardiac surgery are routinely evaluated for the presence of pulmonary hypertension in the preoperative period. Better monitoring in the postoperative critical care setting leads to more efficient management of potential complications. Data among patients with pulmonary hypertension undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery are scant. Moreover, the condition may be unidentified at the time of surgery. Also, monitoring after non-cardiac surgery can be very limited in the PACU setting, as opposed to the critical care setting. All these factors can result in a higher postoperative complication rate and poor outcomes.
Postesophagectomy Diaphragmatic Prolapse after Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (RAMIE)
Authors: Brunner Stefanie , Müller Dolores T. , Eckhoff Jennifer A. , Lange Valentin , Chon Seung-Hun , Schmidt Thomas , Schröder Wolfgang , Bruns Christiane J. , Fuchs Hans F.
Published: September 2023

Background: Postesophagectomy diaphragmatic prolapse (PDP) is a major complication after esophagectomy with significant mortality and morbidity. However, in the current literature, treatment and outcomes are not evaluated for patients undergoing an Ivor Lewis Robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (IL-RAMIE). The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of PDP after IL-RAMIE. Moreover, the study aims to determine whether using a minimally invasive approach in the management of PDP after an IL-RAMIE procedure is safe and feasible. Materials and Methods: This study includes all patients who received an IL-RAMIE at our high-volume center (>200 esophagectomies/year) between April 2017 and December 2022 and developed PDP. The analysis focuses on time to prolapse, symptoms, treatment, surgical method, and recurrence rates of these patients. Results: A total of 185 patients underwent an IL-RAMIE at our hospital. Eleven patients (5.9%) developed PDP. Patients presented with PDP after a medium time of 241 days with symptoms like reflux, nausea, vomiting, and pain. One-third of these patients did not suffer from any symptoms. In all cases, a CT scan was performed in which the colon transversum always presented as the herniated organ. In one patient, prolapse of the small intestine, pancreas, and greater omentum also occurred. A total of 91% of these patients received a revisional surgery in a minimally invasive manner with a mean hospital stay of 12 days. In four patients, PDP recurred (36%) after 13, 114, 119 and 237 days, respectively. Conclusion: This study shows that a minimally invasive approach in repositioning PDP is a safe and effective option after IL-RAMIE.
Health-Related Quality-of-Life Profile of Pediatric Patients with β Thalassemia after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mulas Olga , Efficace Fabio , Orofino Maria Grazia , Piroddi Antonio , Piras Eugenia , Vacca Adriana , Barella Susanna , Costa Alessandro , Giesinger Johannes M. , La Nasa Giorgio , Caocci Giovanni
Published: September 2023

Matched hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a feasible and curative treatment in pediatric patients with beta thalassemia major (β-TM). However, little data are available regarding patients and their parents’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after the procedure. As such, we investigated the HRQoL of pediatric patients with β-TM after HSCT compared to that of patients treated with blood transfusions and iron chelation. The health-related quality of life of 43 β-TM pediatric patients and 43 parents were evaluated using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). A total of 25 patients underwent HSCT: 15 from a sibling and 10 from an HLA-matched donor. The median follow-up time from HSCT was 5 years (range 1–13 years). The mean ages at the survey were 10.1 years (range 5–15) and 9.6 years (range 5–15) for transfused and transplanted patients, respectively. A significant reduction in HRQoL was reported in the group of transfused patients compared with that of patients transplanted in the following PedsQL domains: children’s and parents’ physical functions, Δ = −15.4, p = 0.009 and Δ = −11.3, p = 0.002, respectively; children’s and parents’ emotional functioning, Δ = −15.2, p = 0.026 and Δ = −15.2, p = 0.045, respectively; child’s and parents’ school functioning, Δ = −25, p = 0.005 and Δ = −22.5, p = 0.011, respectively; total child and parents scores, Δ = −14.5, p = 0.004 and Δ = −13.2, p = 0.005, respectively. The results of a multivariable analysis showed that the HSCT procedure was significantly associated with a higher total child PedsQL score (adjusted mean difference = 15.3, p = 0.001) and a higher total parent PedsQL score (adjusted mean difference = 14.1, p = 0.006). We found no significant difference in the HRQoL measured after sibling or unrelated human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched HSCT. Finally, a significant positive correlation across all the PedsQL domains was found between the scores reported by the children and those reported by their parents. In conclusion, our study shows that HSCT in pediatric patients with β-TM is associated with a good overall HRQoL profile. This information further supports physicians when counseling patients and their parents before the HSCT procedure.
Preventing Acute Limb Ischemia during VA-ECMO—In Silico Analysis of Physical Parameters Associated with Lower Limb Perfusion
Authors: Brockaert Tifanie , Ferreira Inês , Laplante Anne , Fogel Paul , Grimbert David , Mordant Pierre
Published: September 2023

Background: Peripheral femoro-femoral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is increasingly used in refractory cardiogenic shock. However, the obstruction of the femoral artery by the return cannula could lead to acute limb ischemia, a frequently encountered situation that is inconstantly prevented by the adjunction of a distal perfusion cannula (DPC). The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of three physical parameters on the perfusion of the cannulated lower limb. Methods: Using patient-specific arterial models and computational fluid dynamic simulations, we studied four diameters of arterial cannula, three diameters of DPC, and two percentages of arterial section limitation. Results: We found that adequate perfusion of the cannulated limb was achieved in only two out of the twenty-one configurations tested, specifically, when the arterial cannula had a diameter of 17 Fr, was considered to limit the section of the artery by 90%, and was associated with an 8 Fr or a 10 Fr DPC. Multivariable analysis revealed that the perfusion of the cannulated lower limb was correlated with the diameter of the DPC, but also with the diameter of the arterial cannula and the percentage of arterial section limitation. Conclusions: In most of the cases simulated here, the current system combining unsized arterial cannula and non-specific DPC was not sufficient to provide adequate perfusion of the cannulated lower limb, urging the need for innovative strategies to efficiently prevent acute limb ischemia during peripheral femoro-femoral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Thrombin Generation Is Associated with Venous Thromboembolism Recurrence, but Not with Major Bleeding and Death in the Elderly: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Vrotniakaite-Bajerciene Kristina , Rütsche Sereina , Calzavarini Sara , Quarroz Claudia , Stalder Odile , Mean Marie , Righini Marc , Staub Daniel , Beer Juerg H. , Frauchiger Beat , Osterwalder Joseph , Kucher Nils , Matter Christian M. , Husmann Marc , Banyai Martin , Aschwanden Markus , Mazzolai Lucia , Hugli Olivier , Rodondi Nicolas , Aujesky Drahomir , Angelillo-Scherrer Anne
Published: September 2023

It is currently unknown whether thrombin generation is associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence, major bleeding, or mortality in the elderly. Therefore, our aim was to prospectively study the association between thrombin generation and VTE recurrence, major bleeding, and mortality in elderly patients with acute VTE. Consecutive patients aged ≥65 years with acute VTE were followed for 2 years, starting from 1 year after the index VTE. Primary outcomes were VTE recurrence, major bleeding, and mortality. Thrombin generation was assessed in 551 patients 1 year after the index VTE. At this time, 59% of the patients were still anticoagulated. Thrombin generation was discriminatory for VTE recurrence, but not for major bleeding and mortality in non-anticoagulated patients. Moreover, peak ratio (adjusted subhazard ratio 4.09, 95% CI, 1.12–14.92) and normalized peak ratio (adjusted subhazard ratio 2.18, 95% CI, 1.28–3.73) in the presence/absence of thrombomodulin were associated with VTE recurrence, but not with major bleeding and mortality after adjustment for potential confounding factors. In elderly patients, thrombin generation was associated with VTE recurrence, but not with major bleeding and/or mortality. Therefore, our study suggests the potential usefulness of thrombin generation measurement after anticoagulation completion for VTE to help identify among elderly patients those at higher risk of VTE recurrence.
Short-Term Heart Rate Variability in Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ortiz-Guzmán Johan E. , Mollà-Casanova Sara , Serra-Añó Pilar , Arias-Mutis Óscar J. , Calvo Conrado , Bizy Alexandra , Alberola Antonio , Chorro Francisco J. , Zarzoso Manuel
Published: September 2023

Background: Our aim was to determine the differences in short-term heart rate variability (HRV) between patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) and healthy controls. Methods: We searched electronic databases for primary works with short-term HRV recordings (≤30 min) that made comparisons between individuals with MS versus healthy controls. This systematic review and meta-analysis (MA) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines and registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022358975). Results: Twenty-eight articles were included in the qualitative synthesis and nineteen met the criteria for the MA. Patients with MS showed decreased SDNN (−0.36 [−0.44, −0.28], p < 0.001), rMSSD (−7.59 [−9.98, −5.19], p < 0.001), HF (−0.36 [−0.51, −0.20], p < 0.00001) and LF (−0.24 [−0.38, −0.1], p = 0.001). In subsequent subanalyses, we found a decrease in SDNN (−0.99 (−1.45, −0.52], p < 0.001), rMSSD (−10.18 [−16.85, −3.52], p < 0.01) and HF (−1.04 [−1.97, −0.1] p < 0.05) in women. In men, only LF showed a significant lower value (−0.26 [−0.5, −0.02], p < 0.05). We could not perform MA for non-linear variables. Conclusions: Patients with MS showed changes in time-domain analyses, with lower values in SDNN and rMSSD. Regarding frequency-domain analyses, MS patients showed a decrease in HF and LF When sex was used as a grouping variable, the MA was only possible in one of both sexes (men or women) in rMSSD and LF/HF. Lastly, when data for both men and women were available, subanalyses showed a different behavior compared to mixed analyses for SDNN, HF and LF, which might point towards a different impact of MS in men and women.
Real-World Retrospective Study into the Effects of Oral Semaglutide (As a Switchover or Add-On Therapy) in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Candido Riccardo , Gaiotti Sara , Giudici Fabiola , Toffoli Barbara , De Luca Federica , Velardi Valerio , Petrucco Alessandra , Gottardi Chiara , Manca Elena , Buda Iris , Fabris Bruno , Bernardi Stella
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Oral semaglutide represents the first oral GLP-1 RA approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This real-world retrospective study aimed at evaluating its effectiveness and tolerability in the treatment of patients with T2DM when patients switched from a glucose-lowering agent to it and when it was added to the usual therapy. (2) Methods: Adult patients with T2DM taking oral semaglutide and followed in the ASUGI Diabetes Center were identified with the use of electronic medical records between October 2022 and May 2023. (3) Results: A total of 129 patients were recruited. The median follow-up was 6 months. Be it as a switchover or as an add-on therapy, oral semaglutide significantly reduced HbA1c and BMI. Switching from DPPIV inhibitors to oral semaglutide was associated with a significant reduction in HbA1c and BMI, switching from SGLT2 inhibitors was associated with a significant reduction in HbA1c, and switching from sulphonylureas was associated with a significant reduction in BMI. The median HbA1c change was associated with baseline HbA1c. SBP significantly decreased in the add-on group. Oral semaglutide was well tolerated. (4) Conclusions: This study shows that in the real-world setting, oral semaglutide is effective and safe as a switchover or as an add-on therapy for the treatment of T2DM.
Depiction of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) in Diabetes with a Focus on Diabetic Microvascular Complications
Authors: Tanase Daniela Maria , Gosav Evelina Maria , Botoc Tina , Floria Mariana , Tarniceriu Claudia Cristina , Maranduca Minela Aida , Haisan Anca , Cucu Andrei Ionut , Rezus Ciprian , Costea Claudia Florida
Published: September 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) still holds the title as one of the most debilitating chronic diseases with rising prevalence and incidence, including its complications such as retinal, renal, and peripheral nerve disease. In order to develop novel molecules for diagnosis and treatment, a deep understanding of the complex molecular pathways is imperative. Currently, the existing agents for T2DM treatment target only blood glucose levels. Over the past decades, specific building blocks of proteins—branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) including leucine, isoleucine, and valine—have gained attention because they are linked with insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and diabetes development. In this review, we discuss the hypothetical link between BCAA metabolism, insulin resistance, T2DM, and its microvascular complications including diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy. Further research on these amino acids and their derivates may eventually pave the way to novel biomarkers or therapeutic concepts for the treatment of diabetes and its accompanied complications.
Initial and Residual 3D Fracture Displacement Is Predictive for Patient-Reported Functional Outcome at Mid-Term Follow-Up in Surgically Treated Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Assink Nick , Bosma Eelke , Meesters Anne M. L. , van Helden Sven H. , Nijveldt Robert J. , ten Duis Kaj , Witjes Max J. H. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Kraeima Joep , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: September 2023

Background: Conventional measures of fracture displacement have low interobserver reliability. This study introduced a novel 3D method to measure tibial plateau fracture displacement and its impact on functional outcome. Methods: A multicentre study was conducted on patients who had tibial plateau fracture surgery between 2003 and 2018. Eligible patients had a preoperative CT scan (slice thickness ≤ 1 mm) and received a Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire. A total of 362 patients responded (57%), and assessment of initial and residual fracture displacement was performed via measurement using the 3D gap area (mm2). Patients were divided into four groups based on the 3D gap area size. Differences in functional outcome between these groups were assessed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Multiple linear regression was used to determine the association between fracture displacement and patient-reported outcome. Results: Functional outcome appeared significantly worse when initial or residual fracture displacement increased. Multivariate linear regression showed that initial 3D gap area (per 100 mm2) was significantly negatively associated with all KOOS subscales: symptoms (−0.9, p < 0.001), pain (−0.0, p < 0.001), ADL (−0.8, p = 0.002), sport (−1.4, p < 0.001), and QoL (−1.1, p < 0.001). In addition, residual gap area was significantly negatively associated with the subscales symptoms (−2.2, p = 0.011), ADL (−2.2, p = 0.014), sport (−2.6, p = 0.033), and QoL (−2.4, p = 0.023). Conclusion: A novel 3D measurement method was applied to quantify initial and residual displacement. This is the first study which can reliably classify the degree of displacement and indicates that increasing displacement results in poorer patient-reported functional outcomes.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities: Prevalence, Risk Factors and Management
Authors: Szotek Michał , Drużbicki Łukasz , Sabatowski Karol , Amoroso Gisella R. , De Schouwer Koen , Matusik Paweł T.
Published: September 2023

Over the last decades, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) or replacement (TAVR) has become a potential, widely accepted, and effective method of treating aortic stenosis in patients at moderate and high surgical risk and those disqualified from surgery. The method evolved what translates into a noticeable decrease in the incidence of complications and more beneficial clinical outcomes. However, the incidence of conduction abnormalities related to TAVI, including left bundle branch block and complete or second-degree atrioventricular block (AVB), remains high. The occurrence of AVB requiring permanent pacemaker implantation is associated with a worse prognosis in this group of patients. The identification of risk factors for conduction disturbances requiring pacemaker placement and the assessment of their relation to pacing dependence may help to develop methods of optimal care, including preventive measures, for patients undergoing TAVI. This approach is crucial given the emerging evidence of no worse outcomes for intermediate and low-risk patients undergoing TAVI in comparison to surgical aortic valve replacement. This paper comprehensively discusses the mechanisms, risk factors, and consequences of conduction abnormalities and arrhythmias, including AVB, atrial fibrillation, and ventricular arrhythmias associated with aortic stenosis and TAVI, as well as provides insights into optimized patient care, along with the potential of conduction system pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy, to minimize the risk of unfavorable clinical outcomes.
Prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Adult Individuals with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Maurelli Martina , Gisondi Paolo , Bellinato Francesco , Mantovani Alessandro , Targher Giovanni , Girolomoni Giampiero
Published: September 2023

Background: There are no published studies on the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of NAFLD (assessed via liver ultrasonography) in adults with moderate-to-severe AD. Methods: We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study including adult patients affected by moderate-to-severe AD, moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis, or a previous diagnosis of thin melanoma in situ (considered as the control group) who attended the Verona University Hospital between January 2022 and April 2023. Fatty liver was assessed via liver ultrasonography. Results: A total of 144 adults with AD, 466 with chronic plaque psoriasis, and 99 with thin melanoma were included. The prevalence rates of ultrasound-detected NAFLD among patients with in situ melanoma, those with moderate-to-severe AD, and those with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis were 23.2% (23 out of 99), 24.1% (36 out of 144), and 49.8% (228 out of 466), respectively (p < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis revealed that being of male sex, a higher age, a higher body mass index, and psoriasis were independently associated with NAFLD, whereas AD was not. Conclusions: Our findings show that the prevalence of ultrasound-detected NAFLD in patients with moderate-to-severe AD was comparable to that of patients with a previous diagnosis of in situ melanoma. It is plausible to hypothesize that the Th2-type inflammation typically characterizing AD is not a risk factor for NAFLD. Patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, but not those with AD, should be screened for NAFLD and other metabolic comorbidities.
Awake Tracheal Intubation Is Associated with Fewer Adverse Events in Critical Care Patients than Anaesthetised Tracheal Intubation
Authors: Kriege Marc , Rissel Rene , El Beyrouti Hazem , Hotz Eric
Published: September 2023

Background: Tracheal intubation in critical care is a high-risk procedure requiring significant expertise and airway strategy modification. We hypothesise that awake tracheal intubation is associated with a lower incidence of severe adverse events compared to standard tracheal intubation in critical care patients. Methods: Records were acquired for all tracheal intubations performed from 2020 to 2022 for critical care patients at a tertiary hospital. Each awake tracheal intubation case, using a videolaryngoscope with a hyperangulated blade (McGrath® MAC X-Blade), was propensity matched with two controls (1:2 ratio; standard intubation videolaryngoscopy (VL) and direct laryngoscopy (DL) undergoing general anaesthesia). The primary endpoint was the incidence of adverse events, defined as a mean arterial pressure of <55 mmHg (hypotension), SpO2 < 80% (desaturation) after sufficient preoxygenation, or peri-interventional cardiac arrest. Results: Of the 135 tracheal intubations included for analysis, 45 involved the use of an awake tracheal intubation. At least one adverse event occurred after tracheal intubation in 36/135 (27%) of patients, including awake 1/45 (2.2%; 1/1 hypotension), VL 10/45 (22%; 6/10 hypotension and 4/10 desaturation), and DL 25/45 (47%; 10/25 hypotension, 12/25 desaturation, and 3/25 cardiac arrest; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: In this retrospective observational study of intubation practices in critical care patients, awake tracheal intubation was associated with a lower incidence of severe adverse events than anaesthetised tracheal intubation.
The Safety of a High-Flow Nasal Cannula in Neuromuscular Disease Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure: A Retrospective Case-Series Study
Authors: Lionello Federico , Lapia Francesco , Molena Beatrice , Padoan Andrea , Lococo Sara , Arcaro Giovanna , Guarnieri Gabriella , Vianello Andrea
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Although Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) is effective in preventing mortality and endotracheal intubation in patients with Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) linked to a neuromuscular disorder, its efficacy can be affected by patient intolerance. A High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) appears to have a significant advantage over NIV as far as patient tolerance is concerned. The aim of the study was to investigate HFNC’s safety profile in a group of consecutive Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) patients intolerant to NIV who were admitted to an Intermediate Respiratory Care Unit (IRCU) for ARF. (2) Methods: The clinical course of nine NMD patients intolerant to NIV and switched to HFNC was reported. HFNC was provided during daytime hours and NIV during the night-time to the NIV-intolerant patients. HFNC was utilized 24 h a day in those patients who were intolerant of even nocturnal NIV. (3) Results: HFNC was simple to use and it was well tolerated by all of the patients. Three out of nine patients experienced treatment failure, consisting of the need for ETI and/or death during their IRCU stay. The remaining 6 had a favorable outcome. Treatment failure was linked to the utilization of HFNC 24 h a day. (4) Conclusion: HFNC during the daytime hours, together with nocturnal NIV, seems to be a safe therapeutic approach for NMD patients with ARF. A round-the-clock use of HFNC tends to be linked to a high likelihood of failure.
Validation of a Virtual Environment to Induce State Social Physique Anxiety in Women with Obesity and Social Physique Anxiety
Authors: Jeanningros Alice , Baillot Aurélie , Corno Giulia , Rivard Marie-Christine , Aimé Annie , Bouchard Stéphane
Published: September 2023

State Social Physique Anxiety (SPA), in contrast to Trait SPA, is triggered by specific situations that elicit SPA. To date, no research has used virtual reality (VR) to recreate a situation that may elicit State SPA. The purpose of this study is to validate a virtual environment (VE) that simulates an anxiogenic situation to induce State SPA in women with obesity and high SPA. The high SPA group consisted of 25 self-identified women living with obesity and high Trait SPA. The low SPA group consisted of 20 self-identified women with low SPA. All participants were immersed in a virtual swimming pool environment for 10 min using a virtual reality headset. After the immersion, State SPA and fear of being negatively judged felt during immersion were measured with self-report questionnaires. A questionnaire assessing unwanted negative side effects was administered before and after the immersion. Using an ANCOVA with Trait SPA as covariate, State SPA was found to be significantly higher in the high SPA group. Fear of being judged negatively was also significantly higher in the high SPA group. Unwanted negative side effects scores did not increase post-immersion in either group. This study documents the validity of a novel VE for inducing State SPA in women with obesity and high SPA.
Lifestyles, Left Atrial Structure and Function, and Cognitive Decline in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Gonzalez Casanova Ines , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M. , Romaguera Dora , Toledo Estefanía , Li Linzi , Fortuny Elena , López Luis , Ramallal Raúl , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Tojal-Sierra Lucas , Castañer Olga , Alonso Alvaro
Published: September 2023

Evidence supports associations of lifestyle (including diet and physical activity) and weight with cognitive functioning, but the pathways responsible for these associations have not been fully elucidated. Because healthier lifestyles have been associated with better left atrial structure and function, which in turn is associated with better cognitive functioning, we tested the hypothesis that left atrial structure and function is a potential mediator of the association between lifestyle and cognition. We included 476 participants classed as overweight or obese with metabolic syndrome from three centers in Spain. These participants underwent lifestyle assessments and transthoracic echocardiography at baseline and repeated measurements of the Trail Making A test, a measure of executive function, taken at baseline and at the two-year follow-up. We conducted mediation analyses to test if measures of left atrial structure and function mediated associations between adherence to the Mediterranean diet scores, physical activity, and weight at baseline, as well as a two-year change in Trail Making A scores. The analysis did not find an association between these factors and Trail Making A scores, and no indirect effects appeared to be mediated by echocardiographic measurements. The modest sample size in this analysis is a limitation, and larger studies should be conducted to determine potential cardiovascular factors mediating the association between lifestyle and cognition.
Relationship between Prostate Inflammation and Periodontal Disease—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ortíz de Urbina Comerón Pablo , Zubizarreta-Macho Álvaro , Lobo Galindo Ana Belén , Montiel-Company José María , Lorenzo-Gómez María-Fernanda , Flores Fraile Javier
Published: September 2023

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the association between periodontal disease and prostate inflammation with a null hypothesis stating that periodontal disease does not increase the incidence of prostate inflammation. Materials and methods: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of longitudinal observational cohort and case-control studies that evaluated the odds ratio or hazard ratio and confidence interval was undertaken based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations (2020). A total of four databases were consulted in the literature search: PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. After eliminating duplicated articles and applying the inclusion criteria, seven articles were selected for the qualitative and quantitative analyses. Results: Four observational cohort studies and three observational cohort case-control studies were included in the meta-analysis. The four observational cohort studies were combined using the random effects model to estimate a hazard ratio of 1.32 with a confidence interval of 95% between 0.87 and 1.77. The meta-analysis presented high heterogeneity (Q test = 56.1; p value < 0.001; I2 = 94.9%). Moreover, the three observational case-control studies were combined using the random effects model to estimate an odds ratio of 1.62 with a confidence interval of 95% between 1.41 and 1.84. The meta-analysis presented high heterogeneity (Q test = 1.07; p value = 0.782; I2 = 0%). Conclusions: The incidence of periodontal disease does not increase the risk of the incidence of prostate inflammation.
Automated Characterization of the Ply Stacking Sequence of a Woven Carbon Fiber Composite Using Pulse-Echo Ultrasound
Authors: Blackman Nathaniel J. , Jack David A.
Published: September 2023

Carbon fiber composites are a popular design material due to their high specific strength. The directional strength of woven composites can be customized by changing the orientation and sequencing of individual lamina within the ply stack. This allows for the potential of specialized parts designed for specific applications, leading to both performance gains and weight savings. One challenge is the ability to characterize non-destructively the orientations of the individual lamina after the manufacturing process. Current industrial methods used to verify the ply stack are destructive to the part, increasing costs and material waste. This creates the need for a non-destructive technique capable of determining the ply stack, both for quality control and for in-service parts, including when there may be access to just a single side of the composite. This research introduces a procedure to scan a fabricated laminated composite using pulse-echo ultrasound coupled with an automated algorithm to determine the layer-by-layer orientation of the ply stack with a specific focus on woven composites. In this work, 12 unique plain-weave laminates ranging from 3 lamina to 18 lamina thick are studied. The orientations of each stacking sequence are different, with some following standard composite design methodologies and others randomly stacked. The mathematical technique presented in this work correctly characterizes non-destructively the orientation of each individual lamina to within 1° with 73% confidence and to within 3° with 98.3% confidence of the as-manufactured orientation.
Polyacrylate–Cholesterol Amphiphilic Derivative: Formulation Development and Scale-up for Health Care Applications
Authors: Viola Marco , Migliorini Claudia , Ziarelli Fabio , Viel Stéphane , Cencetti Claudia , Di Risola Daniel , Mosca Luciana , Masuelli Laura , Matricardi Pietro , Di Meo Chiara
Published: September 2023

The novel amphiphilic polyacrylate grafted with cholesterol moieties, PAAbCH, previously synthesized, was deeply characterized and investigated in the lab and on a pre-industrial scale. Solid-state NMR analysis confirmed the polymer structure, and several water-based pharmaceutical and cosmetic products were developed. In particular, stable oil/water emulsions with vegetable oils, squalene, and ceramides were prepared, as well as hydrophilic medicated films loaded with diclofenac, providing a prolonged drug release. PAAbCH also formed polyelectrolyte hydrogel complexes with chitosan, both at the macro- and nano-scale. The results demonstrate that this polymer has promising potential as an innovative excipient, acting as a solubility enhancer, viscosity enhancer, and emulsifying agent with an easy scale-up transfer process.