bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of the Charlson and Elixhauser Methods for Predicting Nursing Indicators in Gastrectomy with Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Kim Chul-Gyu , Bae Kyun-Seop
Published: June 2023

Background: Comorbidity indices such as Charlson’s (CCI) and Elixhauser’s (ECI) are used to adjust the patient’s care, depending on the severity of their condition. However, no study has compared these indices’ ability to predict nursing-sensitive outcomes (NSOs). We compared the performance of CCI and ECI in predicting NSOs in gastric cancer patients’ gastrectomy. Methods: Gastric cancer patients with gastrectomy, aged 19 years or older and admitted between 2015 and 2016, were selected from the Korea Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. We examined the relationships between NSOs and CCI or ECI while adjusting patient and hospital characteristics with logistic regression. Results: The ECI item model was the best in view of the C-statistic and Akaike Information Criterion for total NSO, physiologic/metabolic derangement, and deep vein thrombosis, while the Charlson item model was the best for upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding. For the C-statistic, the ECI item model was the best for in-hospital mortality, CNS complications, shock/cardiac arrest, urinary tract infection, pulmonary failure, and wound infection, while the CCI item model was the best for hospital-acquired pneumonia and pressure ulcers. Conclusions: In predicting 8 of 11 NSOs, the ECI item model outperformed the others. For other NSOs, the best model varies between the ECI item and CCI item model.
Nurses and Physicians’ Perceptions Regarding the Role of Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialists in an Exploratory Qualitative Study
Authors: Dopelt Keren , Asna Noam , Amoyal Mazal , Bashkin Osnat
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the study was to examine the attitudes of nursing and medical teams about the role of oncology clinical nurse specialists in the healthcare system in Israel, where, unlike many countries in the world, such a role has not yet been developed or professionally defined. We conducted 24 interviews with physicians and nurses between August and October 2021. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic analysis method. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used to report the study. Five main themes emerged from the interviews: (1) contribution to the healthcare system, (2) contribution to the patient, (3) drawing professional boundaries, (4) additional responsibilities and authority for oncology clinical nurse specialists, and (5) the field’s readiness for a new position of oncology clinical nurse specialists. The findings provide evidence about the need to develop the role of clinical nurse specialists in the oncology field due to its potential benefits for nurses, physicians, patients, family members, and the healthcare system. At the same time, an in-depth exploration of the boundaries of the role and its implementation, in full cooperation with the oncologists and relevant professional unions, is needed to prevent unnecessary conflicts in the oncology field. Professional development training programs in nursing must create a platform for open dialogue between key stakeholders, nurses, and physicians, in order to help all involved parties, place the benefits to the patients above any personal or status considerations.
Measurement of Dry Matter and Starch in Modern Cassava Genotypes during Long Harvest Cycles
Authors: Silva Rudieli Machado da , Fernandes Adalton Mazetti , Leonel Magali , Pelvine Raíra Andrade , Figueiredo Ricardo Tajra de , Rangel Marco Antonio Sedrez , Ringenberg Rudiney , Oliveira Luciana Alves de , Santos Vanderlei da Silva , Vieira Eduardo Alano
Published: June 2023

Starch (ST) is the main determinant of cassava root industrial quality and is routinely quantified using the specific gravity (SG) method, which is simple but lacks precision. This study aimed to estimate the dry matter (DM) and ST content in nine modern cassava genotypes using the SG method and to develop updated empirical equations that relate SG values with DM and ST content. Two field experiments were conducted using a randomized block design with nine genotypes, nine to ten harvest periods, and four replicates. The correlation between root SG and DM was stronger than that between root SG and ST; however, harvest seasonality strongly influenced this relationship. Genotypes varied in their earliness of ST accumulation in the roots, and genotype-specific equations estimated root DM and ST with greater accuracy than equations based on pooled data from all genotypes. Furthermore, the equations from the literature were less accurate in estimating the root DM and ST content than the equations generated in this study. Therefore, these equations can be used by processing industries to improve the predicted cassava root DM and ST content; however, it may be necessary to include the percentage of ST that industries cannot remove from fresh cassava roots during processing.
POI Symbol Design in Web Cartography—A Comparative Study
Authors: Konstantinou Eirini Nektaria , Skopeliti Andriani , Nakos Byron
Published: June 2023

This paper studies the design of point symbols on widely used online maps and apps that portray tourist points of interest (POIs). Tourist maps are among the most commonly used types of maps nowadays. The ease of travel leads to an ever-increasing demand for tourist maps. Therefore, appropriate map design, content and technical means are necessary for better information transfer and communication between the map and the user. Online maps and apps were selected according to specific criteria (e.g., language, geographic area, pictographic symbols, interactivity). Pictographic point symbols for POIs related to tourism activities were collected and described by variables. The frame and the pictogram of the point symbols were the two main directions for choosing the descriptive variables. Description is based on the cognitive scheme for interpretation of cartographic symbols with some improvements. The study reveals the characteristics of the point symbols and constitutes a documentation of the applied practices. The main trends prevalent in the design of these symbols are highlighted and commented on in relation to traditional cartographic practices and guidelines for the design of point symbols.
Tat-CIAPIN1 Prevents Pancreatic β-Cell Death in hIAPP-Induced RINm5F Cells and T2DM Animal Model
Authors: Yeo Hyeon Ji , Shin Min Jea , Yoo Ki-Yeon , Jung Bo Hyun , Eum Won Sik , Choi Soo Young
Published: June 2023

It is well known that the cytokine-induced apoptosis inhibitor 1 (CIAPIN1) protein plays an important role in biological progresses as an anti-apoptotic protein. Human islet amyloid peptide (hIAPP), known as amylin, is caused to pancreatic β-cell death in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the function of CIAPIN1 protein on T2DM is not yet well studied. Therefore, we investigated the effects of CIAPIN1 protein on a hIAPP-induced RINm5F cell and T2DM animal model induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ). The Tat-CIAPIN1 protein reduced the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and regulated the apoptosis-related protein expression levels including COX-2, iNOS, Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3 in hIAPP-induced RINm5F cells. In a T2DM mice model, the Tat-CIAPIN1 protein ameliorated the pathological changes of pancreatic β-cells and reduced the fasting blood glucose, body weight and hemoglobin Alc (HbAlc) levels. In conclusion, the Tat-CIAPIN1 protein showed protective effects against T2DM by protection of β-cells via inhibition of hIAPP toxicity and by regulation of a MAPK signal pathway, suggesting CIAPIN1 protein can be a therapeutic protein drug candidate by beneficial regulation of T2DM.
Proteomic Modulation in TGF-β-Treated Cholangiocytes Induced by Curcumin Nanoparticles
Authors: Ceccherini Elisa , Signore Giovanni , Tedeschi Lorena , Vozzi Federico , Di Giorgi Nicoletta , Michelucci Elena , Cecchettini Antonella , Rocchiccioli Silvia
Published: June 2023

Curcumin is a natural polyphenol that exhibits a variety of beneficial effects on health, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepato-protective properties. Due to its poor water solubility and membrane permeability, in the present study, we prepared and characterized a water-stable, freely dispersible nanoformulation of curcumin. Although the potential of curcumin nanoformulations in the hepatic field has been studied, there are no investigations on their effect in fibrotic pathological conditions involving cholangiocytes. Exploiting an in vitro model of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-stimulated cholangiocytes, we applied the Sequential Window Acquisition of All Theoretical Mass Spectra (SWATH-MS)-based quantitative proteomic approaches to study the proteome modulation induced by curcumin nanoformulation. Our results confirmed the well-documented anti-inflammatory properties of this nutraceutic, highlighting the induction of programmed cell death as a mechanism to counteract the cellular damages induced by TGF-β. Moreover, curcumin nanoformulation positively influenced the expression of several proteins involved in TGF-β-mediated fibrosis. Given the crucial importance of deregulated cholangiocyte functions during cholangiopathies, our results provide the basis for a better understanding of the mechanisms associated with this pathology and could represent a rationale for the development of more targeted therapies.
Plastid Genome Evolution of Two Colony-Forming Benthic Ochrosphaera neapolitana Strains (Coccolithales, Haptophyta)
Authors: Ha Ji-San , Lhee Duckhyun , Andersen Robert A. , Melkonian Barbara , Melkonian Michael , Yoon Hwan Su
Published: June 2023

Coccolithophores are well-known haptophytes that produce small calcium carbonate coccoliths, which in turn contribute to carbon sequestration in the marine environment. Despite their important ecological role, only two of eleven haptophyte plastid genomes are from coccolithophores, and those two belong to the order Isochrysidales. Here, we report the plastid genomes of two strains of Ochrosphaera neapolitana (Coccolithales) from Spain (CCAC 3688 B) and the USA (A15,280). The newly constructed plastid genomes are the largest in size (116,906 bp and 113,686 bp, respectively) among all the available haptophyte plastid genomes, primarily due to the increased intergenic regions. These two plastid genomes possess a conventional quadripartite structure with a long single copy and short single copy separated by two inverted ribosomal repeats. These two plastid genomes share 110 core genes, six rRNAs, and 29 tRNAs, but CCAC 3688 B has an additional CDS (ycf55) and one tRNA (trnL-UAG). Two large insertions at the intergenic regions (2 kb insertion between ycf35 and ycf45; 0.5 kb insertion in the middle of trnM and trnY) were detected in the strain CCAC 3688 B. We found the genes of light-independent protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (chlB, chlN, and chlL), which convert protochlorophyllide to chlorophyllide during chlorophyll biosynthesis, in the plastid genomes of O. neapolitana as well as in other benthic Isochrysidales and Coccolithales species, putatively suggesting an evolutionary adaptation to benthic habitats.
Antigenic Cartography Indicates That the Omicron BA.1 and BA.4/BA.5 Variants Remain Antigenically Distant to Ancestral SARS-CoV-2 after Sputnik V Vaccination Followed by Homologous (Sputnik V) or Heterologous (Comirnaty) Revaccination
Authors: Astakhova Ekaterina A. , Morozov Alexey A. , Byazrova Maria G. , Sukhova Maria M. , Mikhailov Artem A. , Minnegalieva Aygul R. , Gorchakov Andrey A. , Filatov Alexander V.
Published: June 2023

The rapid emergence of evasive SARS-CoV-2 variants is an ongoing challenge for COVID-19 vaccinology. Traditional virus neutralization tests provide detailed datasets of neutralization titers against the viral variants. Such datasets are difficult to interpret and do not immediately inform of the sufficiency of the breadth of the antibody response. Some of these issues could be tackled using the antigenic cartography approach. In this study, we created antigenic maps using neutralization titers of sera from donors who received the Sputnik V booster vaccine after primary Sputnik V vaccination and compared them with the antigenic maps based on serum neutralization titers of Comirnaty-boosted donors. A traditional analysis of neutralization titers against the WT (wild-type), Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron BA.1, and BA.4/BA.5 variants showed a significant booster humoral response after both homologous (Sputnik V) and heterologous (Comirnaty) revaccinations against all of the studied viral variants. However, despite this, a more in-depth analysis using antigenic cartography revealed that Omicron variants remain antigenically distant from the WT, which is indicative of the formation of insufficient levels of cross-neutralizing antibodies. The implications of these findings may be significant when developing a new vaccine regimen.
A Million-Cow Genome-Wide Association Study of Three Fertility Traits in U.S. Holstein Cows
Authors: Liang Zuoxiang , Prakapenka Dzianis , VanRaden Paul M. , Jiang Jicai , Ma Li , Da Yang
Published: June 2023

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the daughter pregnancy rate (DPR), cow conception rate (CCR), and heifer conception rate (HCR) using 1,001,374–1,194,736 first-lactation Holstein cows and 75,140–75,295 SNPs identified 7567, 3798, and 726 additive effects, as well as 22, 27, and 25 dominance effects for DPR, CCR, and HCR, respectively, with log10(1/p) > 8. Most of these effects were new effects, and some new effects were in or near genes known to affect reproduction including GNRHR, SHBG, and ESR1, and a gene cluster of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins. The confirmed effects included those in or near the SLC4A4-GC-NPFFR2 and AFF1 regions of Chr06 and the KALRN region of Chr01. Eleven SNPs in the CEBPG-PEPD-CHST8 region of Chr18, the AFF1-KLHL8 region of Chr06, and the CCDC14-KALRN region of Chr01 with sharply negative allelic effects and dominance values for the recessive homozygous genotypes were recommended for heifer culling. Two SNPs in and near the AGMO region of Chr04 that were sharply negative for HCR and age at first calving, but slightly positive for the yield traits could also be considered for heifer culling. The results from this study provided new evidence and understanding about the genetic variants and genome regions affecting the three fertility traits in U.S. Holstein cows.
Methylation-Regulated Long Non-Coding RNA Expression in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Fenton Christopher G. , Ray Mithlesh Kumar , Meng Wei , Paulssen Ruth H.
Published: June 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Although epigenetic processes such as DNA methylation and lncRNA expression are well studied in UC, the importance of the interplay between the two processes has not yet been fully explored. It is, therefore, believed that interactions between environmental factors and epigenetics contribute to disease development. Mucosal biopsies from 11 treatment-naïve UC patients and 13 normal controls were used in this study. From each individual sample, both whole-genome bisulfite sequencing data (WGBS) and lncRNA expression data were analyzed. Correlation analysis between lncRNA expression and upstream differentially methylated regions (DMRs) was used to identify lncRNAs that might be regulated by DMRs. Furthermore, proximal protein-coding genes associated with DMR-regulated lncRNAs were identified by correlating their expression. The study identified UC-associated lncRNAs such as MIR4435-2HG, ZFAS1, IL6-AS1, and Pvt1, which may be regulated by DMRs. Several genes that are involved in inflammatory immune responses were found downstream of DMR-regulated lncRNAs, including SERPINB1, CCL18, and SLC15A4. The interplay between lncRNA expression regulated by DNA methylation in UC might improve our understanding of UC pathogenesis.
Toxicity Mechanisms of Copper Nanoparticles and Copper Surfaces on Bacterial Cells and Viruses
Authors: Ramos-Zúñiga Javiera , Bruna Nicolás , Pérez-Donoso José M.
Published: June 2023

Copper is a metal historically used to prevent infections. One of the most relevant challenges in modern society are infectious disease outbreaks, where copper-based technologies can play a significant role. Currently, copper nanoparticles and surfaces are the most common antimicrobial copper-based technologies. Despite the widespread use of copper on nanoparticles and surfaces, the toxicity mechanism(s) explaining their unique antimicrobial properties are not entirely known. In general, toxicity effects described in bacteria and fungi involve the rupture of membranes, accumulation of ions inside the cell, protein inactivation, and DNA damage. A few studies have associated Cu-toxicity with ROS production and genetic material degradation in viruses. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of the toxicity of copper nanoparticles and surfaces will contribute to developing and implementing efficient antimicrobial technologies to combat old and new infectious agents that can lead to disease outbreaks such as COVID-19. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the microbial toxicity of copper nanoparticles and surfaces and the gaps in this knowledge. In addition, we discuss potential applications derived from discovering new elements of copper toxicity, such as using different molecules or modifications to potentiate toxicity or antimicrobial specificity.
Virtual Screening Strategy and In Vitro Tests to Identify New Inhibitors of the Immunoproteasome
Authors: Culletta Giulia , Tutone Marco , Ettari Roberta , Perricone Ugo , Di Chio Carla , Almerico Anna Maria , Zappalà Maria
Published: June 2023

Immunoproteasome inhibition is a promising strategy for the treatment of hematological malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory diseases. The design of non-covalent inhibitors of the immunoproteasome β1i/β5i catalytic subunits could be a novel approach to avoid the drawbacks of the known covalent inhibitors, such as toxicity due to off-target binding. In this work, we report the biological evaluation of thirty-four compounds selected from a commercially available collection. These hit compounds are the outcomes of a virtual screening strategy including a dynamic pharmacophore modeling approach onto the β1i subunit and a pharmacophore/docking approach onto the β5i subunit. The computational studies were first followed by in vitro enzymatic assays at 100 μM. Only compounds capable of inhibiting the enzymatic activity by more than 50% were characterized in detail using Tian continuous assays, determining the dissociation constant (Ki) of the non-covalent complex where Ki is also the measure of the binding affinity. Seven out of thirty-four hits showed to inhibit β1i and/or β5i subunit. Compound 3 is the most active on the β1i subunit with Ki = 11.84 ± 1.63 µM, and compound 17 showed Ki = 12.50 ± 0.77 µM on the β5i subunit. Compound 2 showed inhibitory activity on both subunits (Ki = 12.53 ± 0.18 and Ki = 31.95 ± 0.81 on the β1i subunit and β5i subunit, respectively). The induced fit docking analysis revealed interactions with Thr1 and Phe31 of β1i subunit and that represent new key residues as reported in our previous work. Onto β5i subunit, it interacts with the key residues Thr1, Thr21, and Tyr169. This last hit compound identified represents an interesting starting point for further optimization of β1i/β5i dual inhibitors of the immunoproteasome.
The Role of Galectin-3 in Predicting Congenital Heart Disease Outcome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Făgărășan Amalia , Săsăran Maria , Gozar Liliana , Crauciuc Andrei , Bănescu  Claudia
Published: June 2023

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a novel pro-fibrotic biomarker that can predict both right and left cardiac dysfunction caused by various cardiovascular conditions. Its expression seems to be progressively altered with evolving cardiac remodeling processes, even before the onset of heart failure. Hence, Gal-3 has been found to be an individual predictor of acute and chronic heart failure or to serve as part of an integrated biomarker panel that can foresee adverse cardiac outcomes. In congenital heart disease (CHD), Gal-3 correlates with cardiac mortality and complications in both children and adults and is proposed as a therapeutic target in order to reverse the activation of pro-fibrosis pathways that lead to heart failure. Positive associations between serum Gal-3 levels, post-operatory hospitalization rates, complications and ventricular dysfunction have also been reported within studies conducted on patients with CHD who underwent corrective surgery. Thus, this review tried to address the potential utility of Gal-3 in patients with CHD and particularly in those who undergo corrective surgery. The heterogeneity of the literature data and the lack of validation of the results obtained by the current studies on larger cohorts cannot be neglected, though. Further longitudinal research is required to establish how Gal-3 can relate to long-term outcomes in pediatric CHD.
mRNA: Vaccine or Gene Therapy? The Safety Regulatory Issues
Authors: Banoun Helene
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 vaccines were developed and approved rapidly in response to the urgency created by the pandemic. No specific regulations existed at the time they were marketed. The regulatory agencies therefore adapted them as a matter of urgency. Now that the pandemic emergency has passed, it is time to consider the safety issues associated with this rapid approval. The mode of action of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines should classify them as gene therapy products (GTPs), but they have been excluded by regulatory agencies. Some of the tests they have undergone as vaccines have produced non-compliant results in terms of purity, quality and batch homogeneity. The wide and persistent biodistribution of mRNAs and their protein products, incompletely studied due to their classification as vaccines, raises safety issues. Post-marketing studies have shown that mRNA passes into breast milk and could have adverse effects on breast-fed babies. Long-term expression, integration into the genome, transmission to the germline, passage into sperm, embryo/fetal and perinatal toxicity, genotoxicity and tumorigenicity should be studied in light of the adverse events reported in pharmacovigilance databases. The potential horizontal transmission (i.e., shedding) should also have been assessed. In-depth vaccinovigilance should be carried out. We would expect these controls to be required for future mRNA vaccines developed outside the context of a pandemic.
AI-Based Smart Sensing and AR for Gait Rehabilitation Assessment
Authors: Monge João , Ribeiro Gonçalo , Raimundo António , Postolache Octavian , Santos Joel
Published: June 2023

Health monitoring is crucial in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Challenges can affect the reliability and accuracy of health data. Human error, patient compliance concerns, time, money, technology, and environmental factors might cause these issues. In order to improve patient care, healthcare providers must address these challenges. We propose a non-intrusive smart sensing system that uses a SensFloor smart carpet and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) wearable sensor on the user’s back to monitor position and gait characteristics. Furthermore, we implemented machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyze the data collected from the SensFloor and IMU sensors. The system generates real-time data that are stored in the cloud and are accessible to physical therapists and patients. Additionally, the system’s real-time dashboards provide a comprehensive analysis of the user’s gait and balance, enabling personalized training plans with tailored exercises and better rehabilitation outcomes. Using non-invasive smart sensing technology, our proposed solution enables healthcare facilities to monitor patients’ health and enhance their physical rehabilitation plans.
Mapping Metaverse Research: Identifying Future Research Areas Based on Bibliometric and Topic Modeling Techniques
Authors: Rejeb Abderahman , Rejeb Karim , Treiblmaier Horst
Published: June 2023

The metaverse represents an immersive digital environment that has garnered significant attention as a result of its potential to revolutionize various industry sectors and its profound societal impact. While academic interest in the metaverse has surged, a dearth of comprehensive review articles employing bibliometric techniques remains. This study seeks to address this gap by analyzing 595 metaverse-related journal articles using bibliometric and topic modeling techniques, marking the first of its kind to investigate the bibliometric profile of metaverse research. The findings reveal exponential growth in metaverse research since 2020, identifying major trends, prolific authors, and the most active journals in the field. A keyword co-occurrence analysis further uncovers four significant clusters of metaverse-related interests, highlighting its unique facets and underscoring its far-reaching implications across various sectors, including education, healthcare, retail, and tourism. This study emphasizes the need for more research and collaboration in advancing the metaverse field and presents 27 research questions for future investigation. This comprehensive analysis serves as a foundation for understanding the current state of metaverse research and its potential trajectory.
A Multifunctional Fluorescent Probe Based on 1,8-Naphthalimide for the Detection of Co2+, F−, and CN−
Authors: Li Ping , Ji Xian-Xian , Xu Ming-Yao , Liu Yu-Long , Yang Liu
Published: June 2023

Cations and anions are indispensable resources for the development of nature and modern industry and agriculture, and exploring more efficient technology to monitor them is urgently needed. A multifunctional fluorescent probe based on 1,8-naphthalimide, N-(2-thiophenhydrazide)acetyl-4-morpholine-1,8-naphthalimide (TMN), was successfully designed and synthesized for the detection of Co2+, F−, and CN−, with N-carboxymethyl-4-morpholine-1,8-naphthalimide and thiophene-2-carbohydrazide as starting materials. TMN displayed superior stability in MeCN with an “on–off” mode towards Co2+, F−, and CN− by the naked eye. The linear response ranges of TMN were 0–3 and 4–19 μM with a detection limit of 0.21 μM for detecting Co2+, 0–5 and 5–22 μM with a detection limit of 0.36 μM for F−, and 0–10 and 10–25 μM with a detection limit of 0.49 μM for CN−. TMN could also recognize Co2+, F−, and CN− in real samples. Finally, the possible sensing mechanisms of TMN for detecting Co2+, F−, and CN− were deeply investigated. These results implied that TMN could be a potential chemosensor for monitoring metal cations and anions sensitively and selectively and could be used in real sample detection.
Diversity, Abundance and Host Blood Meal Analysis of Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from Cattle Pens in Different Land Use Types from Thailand
Authors: Gomontean Bhuvadol , Vaisusuk Kotchaphon , Chatan Wasupon , Wongpakam Komgrit , Sankul Papasara , Lachanthuek Laksika , Mintara Ronnalit , Thanee Isara , Pramual Pairot
Published: June 2023

Biting midges of the genus Culicoides Latreille are significant pests and vectors that transmit pathogens to humans and other animals. Cattle are among the important livestock that can potentially be severely affected by Culicoides. In this study, we examined the species diversity, abundance, and host blood meal identification of biting midges in cattle pens located in three different land use types: villages, agricultural areas, and the forest edge. A total of 12,916 biting midges were collected, and most of these were from cattle pens located in villages (34%) and agricultural land (52%). Morphological identification revealed 29 Culicoides species. The most common species were C. oxystoma, C. mahasarakhamense, C. peregrinus, and C. shortti; taken together, these species represented >80% of all specimens collected. Despite midges being less numerous (14% of the total collection), cattle pens located near the forest showed greater diversity (23) than those from villages and agricultural areas. More diverse immature habitats and host blood sources from wildlife in nearby forests possibly explain the greater diversity in the cattle pens near the forest edge. Host blood meal analysis revealed that most (65%) biting midges had fed on buffalo despite the fact that this animal was much less numerous than cows or chickens. Relatively larger size and black-colored skin could be factors that make buffalo more attractive to biting midges than other host species. In this study, we also provided 67 DNA barcoding sequences of 13 species, three of which (C. flaviscutatus, C. geminus, and C. suzukii) were first reported from Thai specimens. DNA barcode analysis indicated cryptic diversity within C. hegneri and C. flavescens in Thailand, and thus, further investigation is required to resolve their species status.
Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors to Decrease the Uric Acid Concentration—A Novel Mechanism of Action
Authors: Kochanowska Anna , Rusztyn Przemysław , Szczerkowska Karolina , Surma Stanisław , Gąsecka Aleksandra , Jaguszewski Miłosz J. , Szarpak Łukasz , Filipiak Krzysztof J.
Published: June 2023

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are glucose-lowering agents whose positive impact on cardiovascular risk has been described extensively. Not only do they influence lipid profile, blood pressure, atherosclerosis risk, hemoglobin level, and insulin resistance, but they also reduce cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, and hospitalization rates. Some of these effects may be due to their impact on serum uric acid (SUA) concentration. Findings from nine meta-analyses showed that, indeed, SGLT2is significantly reduce SUA. The data on the drug- and dose-dependency of this effect were inconclusive. Several factors alternating the beneficial effects of SGLT2is on SUA, such as glycated hemoglobin concentration (HbA1c), presence of diabetes, and baseline SUA level, were described. Even though there is a consensus that the lowering of SUA by SGLT2is might be due to the increased urinary excretion rate of uric acid (UEUA) rather than its altered metabolism, the exact mechanism remains unknown. The influence of SGLT2is on SUA may not only be used in gout treatment but may also be of huge importance in explaining the observed pleiotropic effects of SGLT2is.
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Pathogenesis and Pathophysiology
Authors: Dankhara Nilesh , Holla Ira , Ramarao Sumana , Kalikkot Thekkeveedu Renjithkumar
Published: June 2023

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), also known as chronic lung disease, is the most common respiratory morbidity in preterm infants. “Old” or “classic” BPD, as per the original description, is less common now. “New BPD”, which presents with distinct clinical and pathological features, is more frequently observed in the current era of advanced neonatal care, where extremely premature infants are surviving because of medical advancements. The pathogenesis of BPD is complex and multifactorial and involves both genetic and environmental factors. This review provides an overview of the pathology of BPD and discusses the influence of several prenatal and postnatal factors on its pathogenesis, such as maternal factors, genetic susceptibility, ventilator-associated lung injury, oxygen toxicity, sepsis, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and nutritional deficiencies. This in-depth review draws on existing literature to explore these factors and their potential contribution to the development of BPD.
Computer-Aided Detection for Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis: Radiological Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Ramaekers Mark , Viviers Christiaan G. A. , Janssen Boris V. , Hellström Terese A. E. , Ewals Lotte , van der Wulp Kasper , Nederend Joost , Jacobs Igor , Pluyter Jon R. , Mavroeidis Dimitrios , van der Sommen Fons , Besselink Marc G. , Luyer Misha D. P.
Published: June 2023

Radiological imaging plays a crucial role in the detection and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, there are several challenges associated with the use of these techniques in daily clinical practice. Determination of the presence or absence of cancer using radiological imaging is difficult and requires specific expertise, especially after neoadjuvant therapy. Early detection and characterization of tumors would potentially increase the number of patients who are eligible for curative treatment. Over the last decades, artificial intelligence (AI)-based computer-aided detection (CAD) has rapidly evolved as a means for improving the radiological detection of cancer and the assessment of the extent of disease. Although the results of AI applications seem promising, widespread adoption in clinical practice has not taken place. This narrative review provides an overview of current radiological CAD systems in pancreatic cancer, highlights challenges that are pertinent to clinical practice, and discusses potential solutions for these challenges.
Transoral Laser Microsurgery versus Robot-Assisted Surgery for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue Base (Oncological and Functional Results)—A Retrospective GETTEC Multicenter Study
Authors: Brudasca Ioana , Philouze Pierre , Morinière Sylvain , Lallemant Benjamin , Vergez Sébastien , Malard Olivier , Roux Pierre-Eric , Rossello Noémie , Payen Caroline , Céruse Philippe
Published: June 2023

The base of the tongue (BOT) is the second most common site for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the oropharynx. There are currently no clear guidelines for the management of BOT SCC. Our main objective was to compare the oncological outcomes of two minimally invasive approaches, transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) and transoral robot-assisted surgery (TORS). This was a retrospective French GETTEC (Groupe d’Études des Tumeurs de la Tête et du Cou) multicenter study of patients with BOT SCC removed surgically either by TLM or TORS between 2005 and 2021. The study group included 16 patients treated by TLM and 38 by TORS, with median follow-up times of 14.4 and 37.2 months, respectively. The overall survival (OS) rates at 2 and 3 years were 67% in the TLM group and 90% at 2 years and 86% at 3 years in the TORS group (p = 0.42, p = 0.20). There was no significant difference in recurrence-free survival (RFS) between the two techniques after 2 and 3 years. The tumors removed by TORS were significantly larger. Operative times were significantly shorter in the TLM group. There were no differences in feeding resumption; none of the patients in the TLM group required a tracheotomy. Postoperative hemorrhagic complication rates were similar in the two groups (12% for TLM and 13% for TORS). Both TORS and TLM showed encouraging oncological, functional, and safety results in BOT SCC even in recurrence or second primary cancer patients, without a technique being found superior in terms of OS or RFS. Tumors removed by TORS were larger without an increase in postoperative bleeding, extending the possibilities of transoral treatment.
Associations of Traditionally Determined Left Ventricular Mass Indices and Hemodynamic and Non-Hemodynamic Components of Cardiac Remodeling with Diastolic and Systolic Function in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hsu Hon-Chun , Tade Grace , Robinson Chanel , Dlongolo Noluntu , Teckie Gloria , Solomon Ahmed , Woodiwiss Angela Jill , Dessein Patrick Hector
Published: June 2023

We aimed to evaluate the extent to which different left ventricular mass parameters are associated with left ventricular function in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. We compared the associations between traditionally determined left ventricular mass indices (LVMIs) and hemodynamic (predicted LVMIs) and non-hemodynamic remodeling parameters with left ventricular function in patients with CKD; non-hemodynamic remodeling was represented by inappropriate left ventricular mass and inappropriate excess LVMIs (traditionally determined LVMIs-predicted LVMIs). Non-hemodynamic left ventricular remodeling parameters were strongly associated with impaired left ventricular systolic function (p < 0.001), whereas hemodynamic left ventricular remodeling was also related strongly (p < 0.001) but directly to left ventricular systolic function. Independent of one another, hemodynamic and non-hemodynamic left ventricular remodeling had associations in opposite directions to left ventricular systolic function and was associated directly with traditionally determined left ventricular mas indices (p < 0.001 for all relationships). Non-hemodynamic cardiac remodeling parameters discriminated more effectively than traditionally determined LVMIs between patients with and without reduced ejection fraction (p < 0.04 for comparison). Left ventricular mass parameters were unrelated to impaired diastolic function in patients with CKD. Traditionally determined LVMIs are less strongly associated with impaired systolic function than non-hemodynamic remodeling parameters (p < 0.04–0.01 for comparisons) because they represent both adaptive or compensatory and non-hemodynamic cardiac remodeling.
Anal Cancer and Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia Risk among Patients Treated for HPV-Related Gynecological Diseases—A Systematic Review
Authors: Brzeziński Michał , Stukan Maciej
Published: June 2023

Background: The most important causative agent of neoplasms in the anogenital area is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Due to the anatomical proximity of the genital and anus area and the ease with which HPV infection is transmitted, it seems that patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases may have an increased risk of developing a second HPV-related neoplasm anal cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the risk of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) and anal cancer (AC) among patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive review of the available literature from multiple databases. The study was performed following Cochrane Reviewers’ Handbook and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2009 guidelines. Moreover, we assessed the quality of each study using QUADAS-2. Results: Twenty-five studies were included in the final analysis. Patients after the treatment of HPV-related gynecological diseases have a significantly higher risk of AC (mean standardized incidence ratio (SIR) = 5.387, mean incidence risk (IR) = 0.096%, mean IR per 100,000 person–years = 10.37) and AIN (mean IR = 23.683%) compared to the population risk. Conclusions: patients with HPV-related gynecological diseases should constitute a group for which an appropriate primary and secondary screening for AC should be introduced.
The Field-Effect Transistor Based on a Polyyne–Polyene Structure Obtained via PVDC Dehydrochlorination
Authors: Streletskiy Oleg A. , Zavidovskiy Ilya A. , Nuriahmetov Islam F. , Khaidarov Abdusame A. , Pavlikov Alexander V. , Minnebaev Kashif F.
Published: June 2023

We report on the formation of the field-effect transistor based on a polyyne–polyene structure. Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) drop casting and its subsequent dehydrochlorination in KOH solution allowed for the formation of porous polyyne–polyene material, which was analyzed via transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, revealing the presence of sp- and sp2-hybridized chained fragments in the structure. The polyyne–polyene-based field-effect transistor showed a transconductance of 3.2 nA/V and a threshold voltage of −0.3 V. The obtained results indicate that polyyne–polyene-based transistors can be used as discrete elements of molecular electronics and that subsequent studies can be aimed toward the development of selective polyyne–polyene-based gas sensors with tunable sensitivity.
Acute Effect of L-Citrulline Supplementation on Resistance Exercise Performance and Muscle Oxygenation in Recreationally Resistance Trained Men and Women
Authors: Gonzalez Adam M. , Yang Yang , Mangine Gerald T. , Pinzone Anthony G. , Ghigiarelli Jamie J. , Sell Katie M.
Published: June 2023

L-citrulline serves as a nitric oxide precursor with the potential to increase blood flow and improve resistance exercise performance, yet more research is needed to examine its ergogenic potential. To examine the effect of L-citrulline supplementation on resistance exercise performance, muscle oxygenation, and the subjective perception of effort, energy, focus, fatigue, and muscle pump, eighteen resistance-trained men (n = 11) and women (n = 7) (21.4 ± 1.8 years; 172.3 ± 7.5 cm; 76.9 ± 10.8 kg) were randomly assigned for supplementation with 8 g of L-citrulline (CIT) or a placebo (PL) in a cross-over fashion one hour prior to testing. Participants completed an isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP), a ballistic bench press protocol [two sets of two repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum (1 RM) with maximum ballistic intent], and a strength-endurance bench press protocol [five repetition-maximum sets at 75% 1RM]. Barbell velocity and power were measured via a linear position transducer during the ballistic protocol, while the repetitions completed, volume load and muscle oxygenation were quantified during the strength-endurance protocol. Subjective measures were assessed at the baseline and immediately pre- and post-exercise. Repeated measures of the analysis of variance and Bayesian equivalents revealed no significant interactions, providing evidence favoring the null hypothesis (BF10 < 1) for IMTP (PL 497.5 ± 133.6 vs. CIT 492.5 ± 129.4 N), barbell velocity, and power, and repetitions completed (PL 36.7 ± 7.2 vs. CIT 36.9 ± 8.1 repetitions). There were also no significant interactions for muscle oxygenation parameters or subjective measures except perceived fatigue. Women reported greater fatigue across all time points compared to men (~1.88 au, p = 0.045, BF10 = 0.2). The results indicate that a single 8 g dose of L-citrulline did not enhance isometric force production, muscle endurance, or muscle oxygenation parameters during the protocol implemented in this study.
Research into Ship Trajectory Prediction Based on An Improved LSTM Network
Authors: Zhang Jiangnan , Wang Hai , Cui Fengjuan , Liu Yongshuo , Liu Zhenxing , Dong Junyu
Published: June 2023

The establishment of ship trajectory prediction is critical in analyzing trajectory data. It serves as a critical reference point for identifying abnormal behavior and potential collision risks for ships. Accurate and real-time ship trajectory prediction is essential during navigation. Since the timing of automatic identification system (AIS) data is irregular, traditional methods usually use time calibration to simulate the data of uniform sequencing before analysis. Inevitably, this increases the chances of error and time delays. To address this issue, we propose a time-aware LSTM (T-LSTM) single-ship trajectory model combined with the generative adversarial network (GAN) to predict multiple ship trajectories. These analysis methods are capable of directly analyzing AIS data and have demonstrated better performance in both single-ship and multi-ship trajectories. Our experimental results show that the proposed method achieves high accuracy and can meet the practical navigation requirements of ships.
Study on the Damping Effect and Mechanism of Vertical Slotted Screens Based on the BM-MPS Method
Authors: Zhang Changle , Wang Lizhu , Xu Min
Published: June 2023

Liquid sloshing is a common phenomenon in ocean engineering, and one which not only affects the stability of ship navigation, but also poses a threat to both the marine environment and human life. Ascertaining how best to reduce the amplitude of liquid sloshing has always been a key problem in ocean engineering. In this study, based on an improved moving-particle semi-implicit method, the BM-MPS method, the damping effect of a vertical slotted screen under rotation excitation was simulated and studied, and the influence of baffle porosity and the rotation amplitude on the resonance period and impact pressure was discussed. The results showed that the porosity had an obvious effect on the resonance period. A significant resonance period transformation happened when the porosity was 0.1, but a porosity of 0.15 was the point at which the maximum impact pressure in the resonance was at its minimum. Meanwhile, the impact duration curve was related to porosity. With the increasing of porosity, the impact duration curve changed from having no peak to a single peak, and then to double peak. In addition, the amplitude of rotation excitation was also one of the factors that affected the resonance period.
Research on Energy Management for Ship Hybrid Power System Based on Adaptive Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy
Authors: Ge Yuequn , Zhang Jundong , Zhou Kunxin , Zhu Jinting , Wang Yongkang
Published: June 2023

This paper analyzes a hybrid power system containing a fuel cell (FC) and proposes an improved scheme involving the replacement of a single energy storage system with a hybrid energy storage system. In order to achieve a reasonable power distribution between fuel cells and energy storage units and stable operation of the power grid, an efficient energy management system (EMS) based on the equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) is proposed. To enhance the dynamic response capability of hybrid energy storage systems, a low-pass filter with a variable time constant based on the ultracapacitor SOC feedback is proposed. This paper describes the design of a fuzzy logic controller that adaptively improves the equivalent consumption minimization control strategy, adjusts the equivalent factor in real time, optimizes the operating points of the fuel cell system, and improves system efficiency. The simulation model of the fuel cell hybrid system was established using MATLAB/Simulink. The proposed adaptive equivalent consumption minimization strategy (A-ECMS) was simulated and compared to the state-based and fuzzy logic energy management systems under the simulation of the real operating conditions of the ship. The results show that the proposed strategy can maintain a fuel cell system efficiency above 60% under most operating conditions and can significantly suppress the fluctuation of a fuel cell’s output power. The proposed strategy outperforms the state-based and fuzzy logic-based EMS in terms of stabilizing the hybrid power system and reducing hydrogen consumption. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy has been verified.
Measures of Patient-Reported Expectations, Acceptance, and Satisfaction Using Automated Insulin Delivery Systems: A Review
Authors: Marigliano Marco , Mozzillo Enza , Mancioppi Valentina , Di Candia Francesca , Rosanio Francesco Maria , Antonelli Annalisa , Nichelatti Ilaria , Maffeis Claudio , Tumini Stefano , Franceschi Roberto
Published: June 2023

In people with type 1 diabetes, Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems adjust insulin delivery in response to sensor glucose data and consist of three components: an insulin pump, a continuous glucose sensor, and an algorithm that determines insulin delivery. To date, all the available AID systems require users to announce carbohydrate intake and deliver meal boluses, as well as respond to system alarms. The use of AID devices both initially and over time may be influenced by a variety of psychological factors. Analysis of patient-related outcomes should be taken into account, while recruiting applicants for the systems who are motivated and have realistic expectations in order to prevent AID dropout. We report an up-to-date summary of the available measures and semi-structured interview content to assess AID expectations, acceptance, and satisfaction using the AID systems. In conclusion, we suggest, before and after starting using AID systems, performing a specific evaluation of the related psychological implications, using validated measures and semi-structured interviews, that allows diabetes care providers to tailor their education approach to the factors that concern the patient at that time; they can teach problem-solving skills and other behavioral strategies to support sustained use of the AID system.