bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Care for Vulnerable Populations with Chronic Liver Disease: A Safety-Net Perspective
Authors: Wang Mark C. , Bangaru Saroja , Zhou Kali
Published: October 2023

Safety-net hospitals (SNHs) and facilities are the cornerstone of healthcare services for the medically underserved. The burden of chronic liver disease—including end-stage manifestations of cirrhosis and liver cancer—is high and rising among populations living in poverty who primarily seek and receive care in safety-net settings. For many reasons related to social determinants of health, these individuals often present with delayed diagnoses and disease presentations, resulting in higher liver-related mortality. With recent state-based policy changes such as Medicaid expansion that impact access to insurance and critical health services, an overview of the body of literature on SNH care for chronic liver disease is timely and informative for the liver disease community. In this narrative review, we discuss controversies in the definition of a SNH and summarize the known disparities in the cascade of the care and management of common liver-related conditions: (1) steatotic liver disease, (2) liver cancer, (3) chronic viral hepatitis, and (4) cirrhosis and liver transplantation. In addition, we review the specific impact of Medicaid expansion on safety-net systems and liver disease outcomes and highlight effective provider- and system-level interventions. Lastly, we address remaining gaps and challenges to optimizing care for vulnerable populations with chronic liver disease in safety-net settings.
Promoting Resilience among Middle-Aged and Older Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV/AIDS in Southern Nevada: An Examination of Facilitators and Challenges from a Social Determinants of Health Perspective
Authors: Ranuschio Brandon , Bell Sherry , Waldron John M. , Barnes Lianne , Sheik-Yosef Nadia , Villalobos Esmeralda , Wackens Janelle , Liboro Renato M.
Published: October 2023

Most prior research on resilience to HIV/AIDS among middle-aged and older men who have sex with men (MSM) has utilized quantitative methods that employ surveys and scales to measure constructs researchers have used to approximate the concept of resilience to HIV/AIDS. Only a few studies have purposively made efforts to incorporate the input of relevant stakeholders to guide their research on HIV/AIDS resilience and examine the perspectives and lived experiences of middle-aged and older MSM. To address this research gap, we conducted a community-based participatory research qualitative study to examine the perspectives and lived experiences of HIV-positive, middle-aged and older MSM from Southern Nevada in order to identify factors that promote such resilience. We conducted 16 semi-structured interviews with middle-aged and older MSM living with HIV/AIDS from January to April 2022. From our thematic analysis of our interviews, we identified factors that served as facilitators or challenges to the promotion of our participants’ HIV/AIDS resilience. We discuss in this article both the facilitators and challenges to our participants’ resilience-building as the key themes from our interviews. We recognized that the impacts of these factors were mediated by their strong influence on the social determinants of health that were explicitly relevant to our participants. We offer important insights based on our findings, which could be especially useful to future research on resilience to HIV/AIDS.
Perceptions of Healthcare Safety Nets among Tertiary Hospital and Long-Term Care Hospital Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Q-Methodological Approach
Authors: Park Bom-Mi , Chon Mi Young , Lee Hyun-Jung
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to identify the types of perceptions toward healthcare safety nets. This study applied a Q-methodology. From a Q-population of 91 samples that included a review of the related literature and interviews with five tertiary hospital nurses and five long-term care (LTC) hospital nurses, 33 Q-samples were selected. The data were analyzed with the PC-QUANL program. We recruited 32 nurses in a tertiary hospital and 33 nurses in an LTC hospital. The perceptions of the healthcare safety net of tertiary hospital nurses were categorized into four types: (1) systematic system request; (2) realistic work support; (3) government support; and (4) emotional support. The perceived subjectivity of the healthcare safety net of LTC hospital nurses were categorized into four types: (1) reward system and facility environmental support; (2) realistic work support; (3) social prevention infrastructure support; and (4) government support. This study provides basic data for these different hospital settings, as well as to inform future government policy and system improvements in an era characterized by infectious diseases. Specifically, this study presents the types of perceptions of healthcare safety nets of nurses in two hospital settings that deliver care for patients.
Efficacy, Safety and Economic Evaluation of Wolbigachul-Tang for Chronic Cough Due to Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (UACS): A Study Protocol for Randomized, Double-Blind, Active-Comparator Controlled, Parallel, Exploratory Clinical Trial
Authors: Woo Seong-Cheon , Lyu Yee Ran , Lee Su Won , Kwon O-Jin , Choi Young-Eun , Yang Changsop , Park Yang Chun
Published: October 2023

Upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) is a common cause of chronic cough characterized by upper airway symptoms, including nasal discharge and throat discomfort. Empirical treatments for UASC-induced chronic cough, such as first-generation antihistamines, have been used; however, the long-term use of these medicines has adverse effects. Therefore, we evaluate the efficacy, safety, and economic feasibility of Wolbigachul-tang (WBGCT), an herbal medication for UASC-induced chronic cough. This is a randomized, double-blind, active-comparator-controlled, parallel, and exploratory clinical trial. Thirty patients with UASC-induced chronic cough will be recruited and randomly allocated to the WBGCT and control groups in a 1:1 allocation ratio. The investigational medicine will be administered three times per day for 2 weeks (3 g of WBGCT at a time). The primary outcome measure is the cough symptom score measured at screening, before starting the trial, and after 2 and 4 weeks. Secondary outcome measures include the cough visual analog scale, nasal discharge score, questionnaire of clinical symptoms of cough and sputum, Leicester cough questionnaire-Korean version, integrative medicine outcome scale, integrative medicine patient satisfaction scale, and 5-level EuroQol 5-dimensional questionnaire, which will be assessed before starting the trial and after 2 and 4 weeks. This study aims to investigate the efficacy, safety, and economic feasibility of WBGCT in the treatment of chronic cough. Therefore, the results of this trial provide evidence for the application of WBGCT in the treatment of UACS-induced chronic cough.
Microbial and Plant-Based Compounds as Alternatives for the Control of Phytopathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Košćak Laura , Lamovšek Janja , Đermić Edyta , Prgomet Iva , Godena Sara
Published: October 2023

Plant pathogens pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity and food security worldwide. The use of traditional chemical pesticides for plant disease management raises concerns due to the emergence of pesticide resistance and their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. As a result, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative approaches for plant disease control. This review provides an overview of the antimicrobial potential of some plant-derived compounds, including essential oils, plant extracts, wastes and their major constituents, against plant pathogenic bacteria. The antimicrobial activity is attributed to the diverse chemical composition of these plant-derived compounds and their ability to target multiple cellular processes in pathogens’ cells. Furthermore, the review explores the use of some antagonistic bacteria and fungi as control tools. These beneficial microorganisms have shown promising results in suppressing the growth of plant pathogens through various mechanisms such as competition, antibiosis and induced systemic resistance. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of using plant-derived compounds and antagonistic microorganisms for plant disease management. Moreover, it highlights the need for further research to optimize their efficacy, develop sustainable formulations and evaluate their performance under field conditions.
Enhancing Red Fruit Coloration of Apples in the Southeastern US with Reflective Fabrics
Authors: Kon Thomas M. , Clavet Christopher D.
Published: October 2023

For some apple cultivars, inadequate red fruit color development can reduce crop value. The use of reflective groundcovers has been demonstrated to improve red coloration in apples in other regions, but evaluation in the southeastern USA has been limited. To address this, we compared the performance of multiple reflective groundcovers in 2018 and 2020 on mature ‘Fuji’ trees in Edneyville, NC, USA. Woven reflective (Extenday® DayBright, Lumilys® WH100, Beltech PD2911, and Belton experimental), mylar, and sod groundcovers were deployed ~5 weeks before anticipated harvest. The effects of the treatment on light reflectance (photosynthetically active and UV radiation), fruit color, fruit quality, and crop value were determined. Across both years of evaluation, reflective groundcovers were consistent in increasing the reflectance of photosynthetically active radiation. However, only Extenday® DayBright consistently increased reflected UV radiation (250–400 nm), red fruit coloration at commercial harvest, and crop value. Fruit maturity and sunburn incidence were not influenced by any treatment in both years. Reflected UV light quality was not characterized, but it is clear that UV250–400nm reflectance intensity is critical to enhance ‘Fuji’ fruit color development. Growers in the southeastern US can use reflective groundcovers to enhance red fruit coloration to meet market demands.
Mourning Glaciers: Animism Reconsidered through Ritual and Sensorial Relationships with Mountain Entities in the Alps
Authors: Chamel Jean
Published: October 2023

The transformation due to climate change of the high Alpine mountains is intensifying. A real disruption in the perception of this milieu and in the ways of interacting with it is ongoing, as evidenced by recent funeral ceremonies organised for disappearing glaciers. The investigation and documentation of the alternative interactions with mountain entities, such as glaciers, is challenging the very existence of the “Great Divide” that modernity has supposedly created between humans and non-humans. Through ethnographic observations and semi-directed interviews, the conducted study uncovers in the Valais Alps and in the Mont Blanc massif the hidden relationships developed with their environment by high-mountain people, such as glaciologists, mountain guides, or crystal hunters. It shows how they relate with specific glaciers or rock walls, listen to them, see them as living and dying, and build up new attention schemes and forms of attachments. It, therefore, allows a first characterisation of what may be akin to a form of animism in a Western context, reputedly naturalistic.
Cross Sectional Observational Study of Current E-Cigarette Use and Oral Health Needs among Adolescents, Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, Wave 5
Authors: Wiener R. Constance
Published: October 2023

Adolescents are vulnerable to marketing and normalization of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems (ENNDS). ENDS/ENNDS have lung and neurological impacts and a potential for oral health consequences. The aim of this study is to compare adolescents who use ENDS/ENNDS with adolescents who do not use ENDS/ENNDS in oral healthcare needs. A cross-sectional design was used with U.S. Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health wave 5 (PATH5; 2018–2019) data, (n = 12,098 adolescents, ages 12–18 years). The Wave 5 response, weighted to be nationally representative was 83.5%. This study included 9538 adolescent/parent dyads. The outcome variable was parent/guardian report of their child’s oral health need(s). The independent variable was self-reported current use/non-use of ENDS/ENNDS. Chi square and logistic regression analyses for oral health need were conducted. The Adjusted Odds Ratio for oral health needs comparing ENDS/ENNDS use vs. no use was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.58; p = 0.0451) controlling for sex/gender, age, race, highest education in the household, physical activity of 60 min daily, self-perceived health, and language spoken at home. ENDS/ENNDS use continues to be a public health concern for U.S. youth. In this study, adolescents who used ENDS/ENNDS were more likely to have oral healthcare need than adolescents who did not use ENDS/ENNDS.
Cleaning and Hygiene in the Air Transport Industry after the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Florido-Benítez Lázaro
Published: October 2023

Bearing in mind the socio-economic consequences of COVID-19 on airports and passengers, this study considers cleaning and hygiene a top priority in airports and airlines’ operating processes. Both airport operators and passengers should be aware that the COVID-19 pathogen has not yet gone away and, thus, continues to spread despite mass vaccination. In this context, this paper’s objective is to show the importance of cleaning and hygiene in the air transport industry to encourage the passengers’ confidence in making decisions to travel on commercial airlines and help airport and airline operators make better decisions in their efforts to improve the cleaning and hygiene protocols. Passengers’ awareness of hygiene and cleanliness has increased, but unfortunately, airports and airlines have reduced cleaning and hygiene activities to save costs. Although there is much to do to help the aviation sector recover, we also see plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the air transport industry’s future, as long as airport and airline operators can guarantee an adequate quality of service with regard to cleaning and hygiene in order to ensure passengers’ safety and well-being. Airports and airlines cannot lower their guard because the SARS, H1N1, MERS, and COVID-19 viruses remain active in society.
Estimation of a Fundamental Diagram with Heterogeneous Data Sources: Experimentation in the City of Santander
Authors: Alonso Borja , Musolino Giuseppe , Rindone Corrado , Vitetta Antonino
Published: October 2023

The reduction of urban congestion represents one of the main challenges for increasing sustainability. This implies the necessity to increase our knowledge of urban mobility and traffic. The fundamental diagram (FD) is a possible tool for analyzing the traffic conditions on an urban road link. FD is commonly associated with the links of a transport network, but it has recently been extended to the whole transport network and named the network macroscopic fundamental diagram (NMFD). When used at the link or network level, the FD is important for supporting the simulation, design, planning, and control of the transport system. Recently, floating car data (FCD), which are based on vehicles’ trajectories using GPS, are able to provide the trajectories of a number of vehicles circulating on the network. The objective of this paper is to integrate FCD with traffic data obtained from traditional loop-detector technology for building FDs. Its research contribution concerns the proposal of a methodology for the extraction of speed data from taxi FCD, corresponding to a specific link section, and the calibration of FDs from FCD and loop detector data. The methodology has been applied to a real case in the city of Santander. The first results presented are encouraging, supporting the paper’s thesis that FCD can be integrated with data obtained from loop detectors to build FD.
Comprehensive Analysis of GH3 Gene Family in Potato and Functional Characterization of StGH3.3 under Drought Stress
Authors: Yao Panfeng , Zhang Chunli , Qin Tianyuan , Liu Yuhui , Liu Zhen , Xie Xiaofei , Bai Jiangping , Sun Chao , Bi Zhenzhen
Published: October 2023

As an important hormone response gene, Gretchen Hagen 3 (GH3) maintains hormonal homeostasis by conjugating excess auxin with amino acids during plant stress-related signaling pathways. GH3 genes have been characterized in many plant species, but they are rarely reported in potato. Here, 19 StGH3 genes were isolated and characterized. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that StGH3s were divided into two categories (group I and group III). Analyses of gene structure and motif composition showed that the members of a specific StGH3 subfamily are relatively conserved. Collinearity analysis of StGH3 genes in potato and other plants laid a foundation for further exploring the evolutionary characteristics of the StGH3 genes. Promoter analysis showed that most StGH3 promoters contained hormone and abiotic stress response elements. Multiple transcriptome studies indicated that some StGH3 genes were responsive to ABA, water deficits, and salt treatments. Moreover, qRT-PCR analysis indicated that StGH3 genes could be induced by phytohormones (ABA, SA, and MeJA) and abiotic stresses (water deficit, high salt, and low temperature), although with different patterns. Furthermore, transgenic tobacco with transient overexpression of the StGH3.3 gene showed positive regulation in response to water deficits by increasing proline accumulation and reducing the leaf water loss rate. These results suggested that StGH3 genes may be involved in the response to abiotic stress through hormonal signal pathways. Overall, this study provides useful insights into the evolution and function of StGH3s and lays a foundation for further study on the molecular mechanisms of StGH3s in the regulation of potato drought resistance.
Particle Swarm Optimization-Based Control for Maximum Power Point Tracking Implemented in a Real Time Photovoltaic System
Authors: del Rio Asier , Barambones Oscar , Uralde Jokin , Artetxe Eneko , Calvo Isidro
Published: October 2023

Photovoltaic panels present an economical and environmentally friendly renewable energy solution, with advantages such as emission-free operation, low maintenance, and noiseless performance. However, their nonlinear power-voltage curves necessitate efficient operation at the Maximum Power Point (MPP). Various techniques, including Hill Climb algorithms, are commonly employed in the industry due to their simplicity and ease of implementation. Nonetheless, intelligent approaches like Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) offer enhanced accuracy in tracking efficiency with reduced oscillations. The PSO algorithm, inspired by collective intelligence and animal swarm behavior, stands out as a promising solution due to its efficiency and ease of integration, relying only on standard current and voltage sensors commonly found in these systems, not like most intelligent techniques, which require additional modeling or sensoring, significantly increasing the cost of the installation. The primary contribution of this study lies in the implementation and validation of an advanced control system based on the PSO algorithm for real-time Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) in a commercial photovoltaic system to assess its viability by testing it against the industry-standard controller, Perturbation and Observation (P&O), to highlight its advantages and limitations. Through rigorous experiments and comparisons with other methods, the proposed PSO-based control system’s performance and feasibility have been thoroughly evaluated. A sensitivity analysis of the algorithm’s search dynamics parameters has been conducted to identify the most effective combination for optimal real-time tracking. Notably, experimental comparisons with the P&O algorithm have revealed the PSO algorithm’s remarkable ability to significantly reduce settling time up to threefold under similar conditions, resulting in a substantial decrease in energy losses during transient states from 31.96% with P&O to 9.72% with PSO.
Exploring Blockchain Research in Supply Chain Management: A Latent Dirichlet Allocation-Driven Systematic Review
Authors: Rejeb Abderahman , Rejeb Karim , Simske Steve , Keogh John G.
Published: October 2023

Blockchain technology has emerged as a tool with the potential to enhance transparency, trust, security, and decentralization in supply chain management (SCM). This study presents a comprehensive review of the interplay between blockchain technology and SCM. By analyzing an extensive dataset of 943 articles, our exploration utilizes the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) method to delve deep into the thematic structure of the discourse. This investigation revealed ten central topics ranging from blockchain’s transformative role in supply chain finance and e-commerce operations to its application in specialized areas, such as the halal food supply chain and humanitarian contexts. Particularly pronounced were discussions on the challenges and transformations of blockchain integration in supply chains and its impact on pricing strategies and decision-making. Visualization tools, including PyLDAvis, further illuminated the interconnectedness of these themes, highlighting the intertwined nature of blockchain adoption challenges with aspects such as traceability and pricing. Despite the breadth of topics covered, the paper acknowledges its limitations due to the fast-evolving nature of blockchain developments during and after our analysis period. Ultimately, this review provides a holistic academic snapshot, emphasizing both well-developed and nascent research areas and guiding future research in the evolving domain of blockchain in SCM.
Practice Projects for an FPGA-Based Remote Laboratory to Teach and Learn Digital Electronics
Authors: Navas-González Rafael , Oballe-Peinado Óscar , Castellanos-Ramos Julián , Rosas-Cervantes Daniel , Sánchez-Durán José A.
Published: October 2023

This work presents examples of practice sessions to teach and learn digital electronics using an FPGA-based development platform, accessible either through the on-campus laboratory or online using a remote laboratory developed by the authors. The main tasks proposed in the practice sessions are to design specific modules that will be included as a main block in more complex projects. Each project is adapted and ready once the student modules to be implemented, debugged, and/or tested in the FPGA-based platform are added using the aforementioned accessibility methods. The proposal suggests the use of a web-based remote laboratory to complement (rather than replace) on-campus teaching in response to the growing need for access to laboratory resources beyond regular teaching hours. The paper introduces the main topics on implementing and using the tool, sets out how to adapt regular projects to be executed in the remote lab, and describes several practice projects proposed to students in the final three academic years. The paper concludes with an analysis and evaluation of the user experience taken from surveys conducted with students at the end of the semester.
Innovative Visualization Approach for Biomechanical Time Series in Stroke Diagnosis Using Explainable Machine Learning Methods: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Apostolidis Kyriakos , Kokkotis Christos , Karakasis Evangelos , Karampina Evangeli , Moustakidis Serafeim , Menychtas Dimitrios , Giarmatzis Georgios , Tsiptsios Dimitrios , Vadikolias Konstantinos , Aggelousis Nikolaos
Published: October 2023

Stroke remains a predominant cause of mortality and disability worldwide. The endeavor to diagnose stroke through biomechanical time-series data coupled with Artificial Intelligence (AI) poses a formidable challenge, especially amidst constrained participant numbers. The challenge escalates when dealing with small datasets, a common scenario in preliminary medical research. While recent advances have ushered in few-shot learning algorithms adept at handling sparse data, this paper pioneers a distinctive methodology involving a visualization-centric approach to navigating the small-data challenge in diagnosing stroke survivors based on gait-analysis-derived biomechanical data. Employing Siamese neural networks (SNNs), our method transforms a biomechanical time series into visually intuitive images, facilitating a unique analytical lens. The kinematic data encapsulated comprise a spectrum of gait metrics, including movements of the ankle, knee, hip, and center of mass in three dimensions for both paretic and non-paretic legs. Following the visual transformation, the SNN serves as a potent feature extractor, mapping the data into a high-dimensional feature space conducive to classification. The extracted features are subsequently fed into various machine learning (ML) models like support vector machines (SVMs), Random Forest (RF), or neural networks (NN) for classification. In pursuit of heightened interpretability, a cornerstone in medical AI applications, we employ the Grad-CAM (Class Activation Map) tool to visually highlight the critical regions influencing the model’s decision. Our methodology, though exploratory, showcases a promising avenue for leveraging visualized biomechanical data in stroke diagnosis, achieving a perfect classification rate in our preliminary dataset. The visual inspection of generated images elucidates a clear separation of classes (100%), underscoring the potential of this visualization-driven approach in the realm of small data. This proof-of-concept study accentuates the novelty of visual data transformation in enhancing both interpretability and performance in stroke diagnosis using limited data, laying a robust foundation for future research in larger-scale evaluations.
Exploring Effective Approaches to the Risk Management Framework (RMF) in the Republic of Korea: A Study
Authors: Jeong Giseok , Kim Kookjin , Yoon Sukjoon , Shin Dongkyoo , Kang Jiwon
Published: October 2023

As the world undergoes rapid digitalization, individuals and objects are becoming more extensively connected through the advancement of Internet networks. This phenomenon has been observed in governmental and military domains as well, accompanied by a rise in cyber threats consequently. The United States (U.S.), in response to this, has been strongly urging its allies to adhere to the RMF standard to bolster the security of primary defense systems. An agreement has been signed between the Republic of Korea and the U.S. to collaboratively operate major defense systems and cooperate on cyber threats. However, the methodologies and tools required for RMF implementation have not yet been fully provided to several allied countries, including the Republic of Korea, causing difficulties in its implementation. In this study, the U.S. RMF process was applied to a specific system of the Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense, and the outcomes were analyzed. Emphasis was placed on the initial two stages of the RMF: ‘system categorization’ and ‘security control selection’, presenting actual application cases. Additionally, a detailed description of the methodology used by the Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense for RMF implementation in defense systems is provided, introducing a keyword-based overlay application methodology. An introduction to the K-RMF Baseline, Overlay, and Tailoring Tool is also given. The methodologies and tools presented are expected to serve as valuable references for ally countries, including the U.S., in effectively implementing the RMF. It is anticipated that the results of this research will contribute to enhancing cyber security and threat management among allies.
KVMod—A Novel Approach to Design Key-Value NoSQL Databases
Authors: Dourhri Ahmed , Hanine Mohamed , Ouahmane Hassan
Published: October 2023

The growth of structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data produced by the new applications is a result of the development and expansion of social networks, the Internet of Things, web technology, mobile devices, and other technologies. However, as traditional databases became less suitable to manage the rapidly growing quantity of data and variety of data structures, a new class of database management systems named NoSQL was required to satisfy the new requirements. Although NoSQL databases are generally schema-less, significant research has been conducted on their design. A literature review presented in this paper lets us claim the need to create modeling techniques to describe how to structure data in NoSQL databases. Key-value is one of the NoSQL families that has received too little attention, especially in terms of its design methodology. Most studies have focused on the other families, like column-oriented and document-oriented. This paper aims to present a design approach named KVMod (key-value modeling) specific to key-value databases. The purpose is to provide to the scientific community and engineers with a methodology for the design of key-value stores using the maximum automation and therefore the minimum human intervention, which equals the minimum number of errors. A software tool called KVDesign has been implemented to automate the proposed methodology and, thus, the most time-consuming database modeling tasks. The complexity is also discussed to assess the efficiency of our proposed algorithms.
Synthesis, Characterization, DNA Binding and Cytotoxicity of Copper(II) Phenylcarboxylate Complexes
Authors: Fernández Carlos Y. , Rocha Analu , Azam Mohammad , Alvarez Natalia , Min Kim , Batista Alzir A. , Costa-Filho Antonio J. , Ellena Javier , Facchin Gianella
Published: October 2023

Coordination compounds of copper exhibit cytotoxic activity and are suitable for the search for novel drug candidates for cancer treatment. In this work, we synthesized three copper(II) carboxylate complexes, [Cu2(3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoate)4(H2O)2]·2H2O (C1), [Cu2(phenylpropanoate)4(H2O)2] (C2) and [Cu2(phenylacetate)4] (C3), and characterized them by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction of C1 showed the dinuclear paddle-wheel arrangement typical of Cu–carboxylate complexes in the crystal structure. In an aqueous solution, the complexes remain as dimeric units, as studied by UV-visible spectroscopy. The lipophilicity (partition coefficient) and the DNA binding (UV visible and viscosity) studies evidence that the complexes bind the DNA with low Kb constants. In vitro cytotoxicity studies on human cancer cell lines of metastatic breast adenocarcinoma (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7), lung epithelial carcinoma (A549) and cisplatin-resistant ovarian carcinoma (A2780cis), as well as a nontumoral lung cell line (MRC-5), indicate that the complexes are cytotoxic in cisplatin-resistant cells.
The Susceptibility of Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean (MED) Species to Attack by a Parasitoid Wasp Changes between Two Whitefly Strains with Different Facultative Endosymbiotic Bacteria
Authors: Giorgini Massimo , Formisano Giorgio , García-García Rosalía , Bernat-Ponce Saúl , Beitia Francisco
Published: October 2023

In this study, two strains of the mitochondrial lineage Q1 of Bemisia tabaci MED species, characterized by a different complement of facultative bacterial endosymbionts, were tested for their susceptibility to be attacked by the parasitoid wasp Eretmocerus mundus, a widespread natural enemy of B. tabaci. Notably, the BtHC strain infected with Hamiltonella and Cardinium was more resistant to parasitization than the BtHR strain infected with Hamiltonella and Rickettsia. The resistant phenotype consisted of fewer nymphs successfully parasitized (containing the parasitoid mature larva or pupa) and in a lower percentage of adult wasps emerging from parasitized nymphs. Interestingly, the resistance traits were not evident when E. mundus parasitism was compared between BtHC and BtHR using parasitoids originating from a colony maintained on BtHC. However, when we moved the parasitoid colony on BtHR and tested E. mundus after it was reared on BtHR for four and seven generations, we saw then that BtHC was less susceptible to parasitization than BtHR. On the other hand, we did not detect any difference in the parasitization of the BtHR strain between the three generations of E. mundus tested. Our findings showed that host strain is a factor affecting the ability of E. mundus to parasitize B. tabaci and lay the basis for further studies aimed at disentangling the role of the facultative endosymbiont Cardinium and of the genetic background in the resistance of B. tabaci MED to parasitoid attack. Furthermore, they highlight that counteradaptations to the variation of B. tabaci defence mechanisms may be rapidly selected in E. mundus to maximize the parasitoid fitness.
Sustainable Power Generation Expansion in Island Systems with Extensive RES and Energy Storage
Authors: Karapidakis Emmanuel , Kalogerakis Christos , Pompodakis Evangelos
Published: October 2023

Insular networks constitute ideal fields for investment in renewables and storage due to their excellent wind and solar potential, as well the high generation cost of thermal generators in such networks. Nevertheless, in order to ensure the stability of insular networks, network operators impose strict restrictions on the expansion of renewables. Storage systems render ideal solutions for overcoming the aforementioned restrictions, unlocking additional renewable capacity. Among storage technologies, hybrid battery-hydrogen demonstrates beneficial characteristics thanks to the complementary features that battery and hydrogen exhibit regarding efficiency, self-discharge, cost, etc. This paper investigates the economic feasibility of a private investment in renewables and hybrid hydrogen-battery storage, realized on the interconnected island of Crete, Greece. Specifically, an optimization formulation is proposed to optimize the capacity of renewables and hybrid battery-hydrogen storage in order to maximize the profit of investment, while simultaneously reaching a minimum renewable penetration of 80%, in accordance with Greek decarbonization goals. The numerical results presented in this study demonstrate that hybrid hydrogen-battery storage can significantly reduce electricity production costs in Crete, potentially reaching as low as 64 EUR/MWh. From an investor’s perspective, even with moderate compensation tariffs, the energy transition remains profitable due to Crete’s abundant wind and solar resources. For instance, with a 40% subsidy and an 80 EUR/MWh compensation tariff, the net present value can reach EUR 400 million. Furthermore, the projected cost reductions for electrolyzers and fuel cells by 2030 are expected to enhance the profitability of hybrid renewable-battery-hydrogen projects. In summary, this research underscores the sustainable and economically favorable prospects of hybrid hydrogen-battery storage systems in facilitating Crete’s energy transition, with promising implications for investors and the wider renewable energy sector.
Effects of Iliosacral Joint Immobilization on Walking after Iliosacral Screw Fixation in Humans
Authors: Jäckle Katharina , Yoshida Takashi , Neigefink Kira , Meier Marc-Pascal , Seitz Mark-Tilmann , Hawellek Thelonius , von Lewinski Gabriela , Roch Paul Jonathan , Weiser Lukas , Schilling Arndt F. , Lehmann Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

Background: Pelvis fractures are commonly stabilized by surgical implants to facilitate their healing. However, such implants immobilize the iliosacral joint for up to a year until removal. We report how iliosacral joint immobilization affects the walking of patients. Methods: The gaits of patients with immobilized sacroiliac joints after unstable pelvic fracture (n = 8; mean age: 45.63 ± 23.19; five females and three males) and sex- and age-matched healthy control individuals (n = 8; mean age: 46.50 ± 22.91; five females and three males) were recorded and analyzed using a motion capture system. The forces between the tread and feet were also recorded. Standard gait parameters as well as dynamic patterns of joint angles and moments of the lower extremities were analyzed using the simulation software OpenSim. Results: With the exception of hip extensor strength, the monitored joint parameters of the patients showed task-dependent deviations during walking, i.e., plantarflexor force was increased when stepping on an elevated surface, as were hip flexion and extensor moments, knee flexion and extensor moments, as well as ankle dorsiflexion and the associated negative plantarflexor force during stance on the elevated surface. Conclusions: Iliosacral joint fixation causes reduced forward and upward propulsion and requires an extended range of hip motion in the sagittal plane. Patients show significant mobility limitation after iliosacral screw fixation.
Design and Usability Study of a Point of Care mHealth App for Early Dry Eye Screening and Detection
Authors: Zhang Sydney , Echegoyen Julio
Published: October 2023

Significantly increased eye blink rate and partial blinks have been well documented in patients with dry eye disease (DED), a multifactorial eye disorder with few effective methods for clinical diagnosis. In this study, a point of care mHealth App named “EyeScore” was developed, utilizing blink rate and patterns as early clinical biomarkers for DED. EyeScore utilizes an iPhone for a 1-min in-app recording of eyelid movements. The use of facial landmarks, eye aspect ratio (EAR) and derivatives enabled a comprehensive analysis of video frames for the determination of eye blink rate and partial blink counts. Smartphone videos from ten DED patients and ten non-DED controls were analyzed to optimize EAR-based thresholds, with eye blink and partial blink results in excellent agreement with manual counts. Importantly, a clinically relevant algorithm for the calculation of “eye healthiness score” was created, which took into consideration eye blink rate, partial blink counts as well as other demographic and clinical risk factors for DED. This 10-point score can be conveniently measured anytime with non-invasive manners and successfully led to the identification of three individuals with DED conditions from ten non-DED controls. Thus, EyeScore can be validated as a valuable mHealth App for early DED screening, detection and treatment monitoring.
Activity Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: Which Patients Are Active, and Is Being Active Safe?
Authors: Streck Laura Elisa , Chiu Yu-Fen , Braun Sebastian , Mujaj Anisa , Hanreich Carola , Boettner Friedrich
Published: October 2023

Background: Younger and physically active patients demand a return to sport after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, because of the risk of implant wear and loosening, high-impact activities are often not recommended. The current study evaluates predictive factors and revision rates in patients with higher activity levels. Methods: This retrospective study included 4152 hips in 3828 patients aged 45–75 that underwent primary THA for primary osteoarthritis between 2009 and 2019 with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Pain and Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS) were assessed before and 2 years after surgery. Activity was classified as low (LEAS 1–6), moderate (LEAS 7–13), or high (LEAS 14–18). Results: Pain and LEAS improved from preoperative to 2-years postoperative (p < 0.001). The activity level was low in 6.2%, moderate in 52.9%, and high in 40.9% of the patients. Younger age, lower BMI, ASA, and CCI, male sex, and higher preoperative LEAS correlated with higher activity at 2 years (p < 0.001). The predicted revision-free survival rates between the activity groups were better for more highly active patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions: High physical activity 2 years following THA, with participating in sports like jogging several times a week, did not increase the risk of revision surgery. THA patients should not be prevented from a highly active lifestyle.
The Transorbital Approach, A Game-Changer in Neurosurgery: A Guide to Safe and Reliable Surgery Based on Anatomical Principles
Authors: de Notaris Matteo , Sacco Matteo , Corrivetti Francesco , Grasso Michele , Corvino Sergio , Piazza Amedeo , Kong Doo-Sik , Iaconetta Giorgio
Published: October 2023

During the last few years, the superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach has been proposed as a new minimally invasive pathway to access skull base lesions, mostly in ophthalmologic, otolaryngologic, and maxillofacial surgeries. However, most neurosurgeons performing minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgery do not usually employ the orbit as a surgical corridor. The authors undertook this technical and anatomical study to contribute a neurosurgical perspective, exploring the different possibilities of this novel route. Ten dissections were performed on ten formalin-fixed specimens to further refine the transorbital technique. As part of the study, the authors also report an illustrative transorbital surgery case to further detail key surgical landmarks. Herein, we would like to discuss equipment, key anatomical landmarks, and surgical skills and stress the steps and details to ensure a safe and successful procedure. We believe it could be critical to promote and encourage the neurosurgical community to overcome difficulties and ensure a successful surgery by following these key recommendations.
Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) Genotypes: A Meta-Analysis with Meta-Regressions
Authors: Ambrosino Pasquale , Marcuccio Giuseppina , Lombardi Carmen , D’Anna Silvestro Ennio , Sanduzzi Zamparelli Stefano , Mancusi Costantino , Spedicato Giorgio Alfredo , Motta Andrea , Maniscalco Mauro
Published: October 2023

Background. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) can result in severe liver and respiratory disorders. The uninhibited elastase activity on the elastic tissue of arterial walls suggests that AATD may also impact vascular health. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis of the studies evaluating cardiovascular risk in individuals with AATD and non-AATD controls. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted in the main scientific databases according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Differences between cases and controls were expressed as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The protocol was registered on PROSPERO under the identification number CRD42023429756. Results. The analysis of eight studies showed that, with a prevented fraction of disease of 15.0% and a corresponding OR of 0.779 (95%CI: 0.665–0.912; p = 0.002), a total of 24,428 individuals with AATD exhibited a significantly lower risk of ischemic heart disease compared to 534,654 non-AATD controls. Accordingly, given a prevented fraction of disease of 19.5%, a lower risk of acute myocardial infarction was documented when analyzing four studies on 21,741 cases and 513,733 controls (OR: 0.774; 95%CI: 0.599–0.999; p = 0.049). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses substantially confirmed results. Meta-regression models suggested that these findings were not influenced by AATD genotypes or prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among cases and controls, while higher differences in the prevalence of male sex (Z-score: 3.40; p < 0.001), hypertension (Z-score: 2.31; p = 0.021), and diabetes (Z-score: 4.25; p < 0.001) were associated with a lower effect size. Conclusions. Individuals with AATD may exhibit a reduced risk of ischemic heart disease, even in the presence of mild deficiency of the serine protease inhibitor. Although caution is warranted due to the observational nature of the data, future pharmacological and rehabilitation strategies should also take this controversial relationship into account.
Cervical Foraminal Changes in Patients with Intermittent Arm Radiculopathy Studied with a New MRI-Compatible Compression Device
Authors: Hutchins John , Hebelka Hanna , Svensson Pär-Arne , Myklebust Tor Åge , Lagerstrand Kerstin , Brisby Helena
Published: October 2023

Diagnosing cervical foraminal stenosis with intermittent arm radiculopathy is challenging due to discrepancies between MRI findings and symptoms. This can be attributed to the fact that MRI images are often obtained in a relaxed supine position. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of the Dynamic MRI Compression System (DMRICS) and to assess possible changes in cervical foramina, with both quantitative measurements and qualitative grading systems, with MRI during a simulated Spurling test. Ten patients (five women and five men, ages 29–45) with previously confirmed cervical foraminal stenosis underwent MRI scans using DMRICS. MRI images were acquired in both relaxed and provoked states. A radiologist assessed 30 foramina (C4–C7) on the symptomatic side in both patient positions. Quantitative and qualitative measures were performed, including the numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Park and Kim grading systems. The provoked state induced concordant neck and arm pain in 9 of 10 patients. Significant shifts in Park and Kim foraminal gradings were noted: 13 of 27 Park gradings and 9 of 27 Kim gradings escalated post provocation. No quantitative changes were observed. This pilot study indicates that the DMRICS device has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy for cervical radiculopathy, demonstrating induced cervical foraminal changes during a simulated Spurling test while performing MRI.
Predisposing Factors and Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism among Hospitalized Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Ziyadah Mohammed S. , Mansory Eman M. , Alahwal Hatem M. , Bahashwan Salem M. , Almohammadi Abdullah T. , Radhwi Osman O. , Alghamdi Talal , Khan Shahida A. , Almashjary Majed N. , Barefah Ahmed S.
Published: October 2023

Though patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are at risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), clear estimates of its incidence and predisposing factors in hospitalized SCD patients are not available. Therefore, this issue was addressed to facilitate an early diagnosis and initiate appropriate prophylactic and treatment strategies. A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients with SCD who were admitted to an academic center in Saudi Arabia over a 10-year period. We identified 1054 admissions of 394 patients with SCD. Of the 3% of patients identified with VTE, 50% experienced pulmonary embolism (PE), 34.3% exhibited deep vein thrombosis (DVT), 6.3% exhibited cerebral vein thrombosis, and 9.4% showed other forms of VTE. In pregnant SCD patients, 6.4% developed a VTE event during their hospital admission. Of the risk factors, high white blood cell count, length of stay, and presence of any additional risk factor for VTE was associated significantly with higher risk of VTE. In our study, this risk seems to be much lower, which is likely attributed to the use of VTE prophylactic strategies implemented in our center. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to establish the ideal prophylactic strategy in patients with SCD.