bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Influence of Long-Term Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Cardiovascular Risk in Transgender Men through Carotid Intima–Media Thickness
Authors: Hamid Rauf , Güllüce Abdulkadir , Kargın Osman A. , Karagöz Seyfullah H. , Adaletli İbrahim , Çepni İsmail , Tüten Abdullah
Published: October 2024

Background: Transgender men use exogenous androgen for male pattern virilization. Hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (HBSO) is performed to stop the endogenous estrogen secretion. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk has been shown to increase with long-term use of androgens and the removal of estrogen. We aimed to investigate the CVD risk in these individuals by measuring internal and common carotid artery intima–media thicknesses (CIMT). Methods: In this cohort study, data were collected from transgender men who had undergone HBSO and used androgens for at least two years (median treatment duration was 5 years in our research). Cisgender women in the same age range were selected as the control group. Demographics, vital signs, and hematological values of transgender patients and cisgender women subjects in the control group were noted. CVD markers were compared with sonographically measured CIMT values. Results: The mean age and body mass index (BMI) of the study group were 32.6 and 25.3, respectively. Weight, systolic–diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, hematocrit, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), serum triglyceride (TG), HbA1c levels, internal CIMT, and common CIMT values of the study group were higher, while the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level was significantly lower compared the control group (p1 = 0.025, p2 = 0.010, p3 = 0.002, p4 = 0.001, p5 = 0.001, p6 = 0.012, p7 = 0.008, p8 = 0.007, p9 = 0.013, and p10 = 0.001). There was also an increase in the body weight, BMI, LDL, and TG levels of the study group after the testosterone treatment (p1 = 0.025, p2 = 0.019, p3 = 0.001, p4 = 0.001, and p5 = 0.001). Conclusions: We demonstrated that the use of testosterone therapy in transgender men is associated with higher CIMT values. While further investigation is needed to assess morbidity and mortality rates, we recommend that regular clinical and radiological examinations be performed in these individuals to accurately evaluate the risk of CVD.
Streamlined Preoperative Iron Deficiency Screening and IV Treatment for Colorectal Cancer Patients beyond Clinical Trials
Authors: Erichsen Caroline , Rosberg Victoria , Krarup Peter-Martin
Published: October 2024

Background/objectives: Iron deficiency anemia is common in patients with colorectal cancer and affects postoperative outcomes. Preoperative intravenous iron supplementation corrects anemia effectively; however, the effect on the postoperative clinical course is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of implementing a screening program for iron deficiency anemia and correction in patients with colorectal cancer. Methods: This was a retrospective single-institutional quality-assurance study that included patients undergoing elective surgery for colorectal cancer between January 2019 and December 2021. On 1 March 2020, screening for iron deficiency was implemented. Anemia was corrected by intravenous ferricarboyxmaltose. Patients with hemoglobin <7mmol/L and ferritin <30 µg/L or ferritin 30–100 µg/L and TSAT < 0.2 were divided into iron- and non-iron groups. The primary outcome was a change in hemoglobin concentration, and secondary outcomes included blood transfusion, complications, length of stay, mortality, and implementation efficacy. Data from the patients were extracted from digital patient charts and entered into a database. Results: A total of 532 patients were included, of which 177 patients (33.3%) were anemic, 63 were in the iron group, and 114 were in the non-iron group. Adherence to the screening program was 86.3%. Hemoglobin (iron group) increased from a mean of 5.7 mmol/L (SD 0.8) to 6.9 (0.8) mmol/L, p < 0.001. Iron treatment decreased transfusion rates from 27.7% to 9.1%, p = 0.007, and increased the rate of patients without complications from 53.2% to 79.6%, p < 0.001, which held true after controlling for confounding. In addition, 90-day mortality was lower in the iron group; however, this was not significant. Conclusions: Administration of intravenous iron increased hemoglobin, leading to reduced use of blood transfusion and fewer complications.
Functionality and Scar Evaluation of the Donor Site in Extended Radial Forearm Flap Phalloplasty: How Affected Is the Arm in Day-to-Day Life?
Authors: Ozturk Mahmut , Wellenbrock Sascha , Wiebringhaus Philipp , Aitzetmüller-Klietz Marie-Luise , Küenzlen Lara , Burger Anna , Nasim Sahra , Hirsch Tobias , Aitzetmüller-Klietz Matthias , Tav Baksan , Rieger Ulrich M.
Published: October 2024

Background: The radial forearm flap remains the gold standard in phalloplasty in gender-affirming surgery due to its versatility and functional outcome, but the significant donor site morbidity and its impact on daily functioning and aesthetic perception remains understudied. This study provides valuable insights into the mid-term functional and aesthetic outcomes of the forearm in transgender individuals following radial forearm flap phalloplasty using widespread instruments for assessment scoring systems and for the evaluation of postoperative wound healing of surgical interventions in general. Methods: Between January 2013 and March 2018, a total of 47 patients underwent radial phalloplasty at AGAPLESION Markus Hospital, and 20 consented to participate in this cross-sectional, retrospective study evaluating functional and aesthetic outcomes post-radial forearm flap phalloplasty using standardized questionnaires (DASH, POSAS, and SBSES). A univariate median regression of each score was performed to determine the associations with selected variables, and correlation analyses between scores was performed using a nonparametric Spearman rank correlation. Results: Among the 20 participants, the median Quick DASH, DASH functionality, DASH sport and music, and DASH work scores indicated minimal to no functional impairment. Scar evaluations using the PSAS, OSAS, and SBSES scales showed overall patient satisfaction with minimal concerns regarding pigmentation and scar texture. Notably, an increase of 0.27 cm2 in wound surface area added one point to the DASH sport and music score (p = 0.037). Statistical analysis also demonstrated a significant correlation between functional and aesthetic assessment scores. Conclusions: The radial forearm phalloplasty donor site, evaluated by the PSAS, OSAS, and SBSES scales, leads to minimal or no functional impairment; however, the worsening of the DASH sport and music score with increasing wound surface reflects a direct relation between wound size and functional impairment.
Concordance between Preoperative #ENZIANi Score and Postoperative #ENZIANs Score Classification—Why Do We Choose #ENZIAN and How Does It Impact the Future Classification Trend?
Authors: Borowiec Zofia , Mrugała Maja , Nowak Krzysztof , Bek Wiktor , Milnerowicz-Nabzdyk Ewa
Published: October 2024

Objectives: To assess the concordance of the preoperative application of the #ENZIAN classification (#ENZIANi) with the postoperative result (#ENZIANs) using surgical findings as the reference standard. Methods: This retrospective study included 282 consecutive patients with deep endometriosis undergoing surgical treatment. Preoperative assessment with transvaginal sonography and magnetic resonance imaging was compared with postoperative assessment. Concordance and diagnostic test evaluation were calculated. Results: The highest concordance was observed in the F (abdominal wall endometriosis) with k Cohen of 0.837, following the values for pelvic locations, with 0.795 for T left, 0.791 for T right, 0.776 for F (adenomyosis), 0.766 for C (rectum), and 0.75 and 0.72 for O right k and O left, respectively. The highest sensitivity was demonstrated for the P compartment *(98%), T compartment (both sides 97%), and A, B, C (94–96%), corresponding with deep endometriosis. Conclusions: Preoperative assessment using TVS/TAS + MRI with the ENZIANi score correlates well with the ENZIANs postoperative score and demonstrates good concordance in the detection and localization of deep endometriosis, thereby minimizing false negative results and ensuring accurate preoperative staging. The ENZIAN classification is well-suited to surgeon needs and benefits from continuous development. Future improvements, such as adding the expanded C module, may be considered in the next edition.
Food Allergy: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Rizzi Angela , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: October 2024

Food allergy (FA) is a complex disease characterized by an immunological adverse reaction that may occur following exposure to apparently harmless food allergens [...]
Clinicopathological Observations in Acute Stroke Patients Treated with Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Hudák Lilla , Kovács Kitti Bernadett , Bagoly Zsuzsa , Szegedi István , Bencs Viktor , Lóczi Linda , Orbán-Kálmándi Rita , Péter-Pakó Henrietta , Fülesdi Zsófia , Busi Blanka , Nagy Attila , Perjési-Kiss Beáta , Oláh László , Csiba László
Published: October 2024

Background: Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and intravenous thrombolysis, while improving functional outcomes, still leaves a significant mortality rate. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and pathological data of thrombolysed stroke patients who subsequently died and underwent autopsy, focusing on hemorrhagic transformation (HT). Methods: Over a 10-year period, 1426 acute ischemic stroke patients received thrombolysis at our center, with an in-hospital mortality rate of 11.7%. Autopsies were performed on 98 of the 167 deceased patients. Results: HT was found in 47% of these cases, only less than half occurring within a day of thrombolysis. Significant independent predictors of HT included higher lactate dehydrogenase (LD) levels and higher INR values at admission. HT directly caused death in 30% of cases, often through herniation, while other complications (pulmonary embolism, pneumonia) were also common. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of postmortem investigations to accurately determine the incidence of HT and contributing factors. Our data indicate that in the vast majority of HT cases, the role of contributing factors other than rt-PA may be important. Of the routinely assessed clinical and laboratory parameters at admission, only LD and INR were found to be independent predictors of HT in the autopsied studied cohort.
SGLT2 Inhibitors and Their Effect on Urolithiasis: Current Evidence and Future Directions
Authors: Dika Živka , Živko Marijana , Kljajić Marina , Jelaković Bojan
Published: October 2024

Urolithiasis (UL) is increasingly prevalent due to rising cardiorenometabolic diseases, posing significant management challenges despite advances in urological techniques. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, primarily used for type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure, have emerged as a potential novel approach for UL treatment. These inhibitors may help reduce the risk of urolithiasis, particularly in patients with diabetes, by improving glycemic control and altering urinary chemistry, which are crucial factors in stone formation. However, the changes in urinary composition induced by SGLT2 inhibitors might also increase the risk of uric acid stone formation. This review evaluates the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors in managing UL, highlighting both the benefits and the risks. While these inhibitors show promise in reducing new and recurrent urinary stones in patients with diabetes, data on their effects in patients without diabetes who form stones are limited. Current human evidence largely comes from post hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and large-scale database studies, with only one study providing detailed stone composition data. Experimental studies in animal models and cell lines have focused on calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones, showing that SGLT2 inhibitors specifically target CaOx stone formation and related renal inflammation. Although primarily studied for CaOx stones, their potential impact on other calcium-containing stones, such as calcium phosphate, remains promising. Further research is needed to explore their therapeutic potential and optimize treatment strategies.
Safety of Fibrinogen Concentrate for Correcting Perioperative Bleeding-Associated Hypofibrinogenemia in Adults: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Gomes Manuela , Ângelo-Dias Miguel , Lima Jorge
Published: October 2024

Background: Surgery often leads to bleeding associated with hypofibrinogenemia. Supplementation with fibrinogen concentrate appears to be effective and safe, although findings from studies are inconsistent. The primary aim of this study was to assess the safety of fibrinogen concentrate during the perioperative period. Methods: This single-centre, prospective, observational study included adult patients undergoing scheduled or emergency surgery related to bleeding coagulopathy and the administration of fibrinogen concentrate. Patients were followed until their discharge from the institution. Comprehensive data were collected, including age, sex, type of surgery, associated comorbidities, anticoagulant and/or anti-aggregating therapy, and the number of blood transfusions. Laboratory data on plasma fibrinogen concentration, haemoglobin, and platelet count before and after surgery were also collected. The primary outcomes were the mortality rate at discharge and any reported thrombotic or thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and myocardial infarction. Results: The study included 91 adult patients who had undergone surgery, with 29 surgeries (32%) conducted in an emergency setting. The mean age was 59.2 years, and 53.8% were male. Major bleeding occurred in 29 cases, mainly in older males and those on anticoagulant therapy. The pre-operative fibrinogen level averaged 161 mg/dL, and the average dosage of fibrinogen concentrate administered was 2.7 g. Eight patients died (8.8%), mostly due to septic or cardiogenic shock, with deaths being more frequent in emergency settings. Thromboembolic events occurred in eight patients, none of whom died. No additional adverse events directly related to the administration of fibrinogen concentrate were reported. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a favourable safety profile for fibrinogen concentrate in surgical patients, as evidenced by a low incidence of deaths and thromboembolic events, which were primarily attributed to other factors. Future research should strive to increase statistical robustness to further illuminate clinically significant patient safety measures.
Hypotension after Induction of Anesthesia as a Predictor of Hypotension after Opening the Dura Mater during Emergency Craniotomy
Authors: Duda Izabela , Hofman Mariusz , Dymek Mikołaj , Liberski Piotr , Wojtacha Maciej , Szczepańska Anna
Published: October 2024

Background: The subject of this study is intraoperative hypotension during the evacuation of acute subdural haematoma (ASH). We examined the association between the decrease in intraoperative blood pressure (BP) after the induction of anaesthesia and the decrease in BP after opening the dura mater. The second aim of this study was to assess the relationship between preoperative hypertension and the emergence of an intraoperative drop in BP. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study on adult patients undergoing emergency craniotomy due to ASH. In total, 165 medical records from a 2-year period were analysed. The patients were divided into two groups: high blood pressure (HBP) (n = 89) and normal blood pressure (NBP) (n = 76). The HBP group included patients with hypertension in the preoperative period (systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 150 mmHg). The NBP group included patients with an SBP between 90 and 150 mmHg. Results: We observed a significant drop in blood pressure in two operational periods: after the induction of anaesthesia and after opening the dura mater. A highly relevant positive correlation was noted between the decrease in SBP after anaesthesia induction and the opening of the dura mater (p < 0.001). In the HBP group, after opening the dura mater, there was a 44% SBP decrease from the baseline value. Conclusions: The reduction in BP after the induction of anaesthesia is a predictor of a subsequent drop in BP after opening the dura mater during urgent surgery due to ASH. Patients with hypertension in the preoperative period of ASH tend to have a greater intraoperative drop in BP and worse outcomes.
Serum Derivatives–Reactive Oxygen Metabolite Levels as a Marker of Clinical Conditions in Patients with Bronchial Asthma, COPD, or Asthma–COPD Overlap: A Prospective Study
Authors: Nakamoto Keitaro , Watanabe Masato , Saito Masaoki , Kasuga Keisuke , Miyaoka Chika , Yoshida Yuki , Kobayashi Fumi , Nunokawa Hiroki , Aso Jumpei , Nakamoto Yasuo , Ishida Manabu , Sada Mitsuru , Honda Kojiro , Takata Saori , Saraya Takeshi , Shimoda Masafumi , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Saotome Mikio , Ohta Ken , Ishii Haruyuki
Published: October 2024

Background: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of bronchial asthma (BA), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma–COPD overlap (ACO), but its relevance has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to measure the levels of oxidative stress and investigate its clinical significance in patients with BA, COPD, or ACO. Methods: We recruited 214 patients between June 2020 and May 2023 (109 patients with BA, 63 with COPD, and 42 with ACO). To assess clinical conditions, we evaluated patient characteristics, results of respiratory function tests and blood tests, and administered several questionnaires. We evaluated oxidative stress using the test for derivatives–reactive oxygen metabolites (d–ROMs) in serum. Results: The d–ROMs levels were significantly higher in patients with COPD or ACO than in patients with BA. There was no difference in serum d–ROMs levels between the COPD and ACO groups. In BA, d–ROMs levels were positively correlated with interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, serum amyloid A (SAA), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels; white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil counts; and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores, and they were negatively correlated with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%FEV1) and asthma control test (ACT) score. In COPD, d–ROMs levels were positively correlated with IL-6, SAA, and CRP levels; WBC, neutrophil, and eosinophil counts; and COPD assessment test (CAT) and SGRQ scores, and they were negatively correlated with forced vital capacity (%FVC), %FEV1, and %FEV1/FVC scores. In ACO, d–ROMs levels were positively correlated with IL-6, SAA, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and CRP levels; and CAT and SGRQ scores, and they were negatively correlated with %FVC and %FEV1 scores. Conclusions: Serum d–ROMs levels may serve as a marker reflecting clinical conditions such as systemic inflammation, symptom severity, and airflow limitation in patients with BA, COPD, and ACO.
Influence of Endodontic Cavity Design on Interfacial Voids, Class II Resin Composites Sealing Ability and Tooth Fracture Resistance: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Assalman Abdurrahman S. , Al Onaizan Faisal , Elgezawi Moataz , Almulhim Khalid S. , Abdallah Moamen A. , Kaisarly Dalia
Published: October 2024

Objective: The aim of this in vitro investigation is to study the effect of endodontic cavity design on interfacial voids, class II resin composite sealing ability, and fracture resistance in mandibular premolars. Methods: A total of 48 single-rooted mandibular premolars received compound class II preparations with either traditional flare access cavities (group A) or contracted endodontic cavity preparations (group B). Each study group was subdivided according to the coronal restoration into two sub-groups as α and β. In the α group, a microhybrid composite was used after etch-and-rinse bonding technique using an MDP-containing universal adhesive. In the β group, a self-adhesive composite was used as coronal restoration after endodontic treatment (n = 12) for each subgroup. A micro-CT analysis was performed to assess the obturation interfacial voids and tracing of class II cervical interfacial adaptation. The tooth fracture resistance testing was then performed adding an extra group of 12 sound non-prepared teeth, which were tested as the control for fracture strength testing. A one-way ANOVA and post-hoc testing were used together with descriptive statistics for an analysis of the mean values of obturation interfacial voids. A two-way ANOVA was used to assess the fracture resistance test results, and to find the influence of endodontic access design and the type of composite material on the fracture resistance testing. Chi-square testing was employed to analyze the cervical interfacial seal of the class II restorations. Results: A one-way ANOVA revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between test groups in the amount of obturation interfacial voids (p > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between test groups in terms of cervical interfacial sealing ability (p > 0.05). A two-way ANOVA revealed that no statistically significant differences between test groups including the control group existed in terms of the fracture resistance testing (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Although it does not improve tooth fracture resistance, the contracted endodontic access cavity does not deteriorate the quality of obturation in terms of the interfacial porosity. The self-adhesive composite does not improve the efficiency of cervical interfacial adaptation or tooth fracture resistance regardless of the endodontic access cavity shape, yet it revealed a substantial load-bearing capacity.
Athletic Identity and Sport Injury Processes and Outcomes in Young Athletes: A Supplemental Narrative Review
Authors: Brewer Britton W. , Chatterton Hailey A.
Published: October 2024

Background: Identity formation, a primary developmental task of adolescence, may be particularly relevant to another commonly occurring event for young athletes—sport injury. Relationships between a subdimension of self-identity—athletic identity—and sport injury processes and outcomes have been documented in the general athlete population. The purpose of this supplemental narrative review is to explore the potential role of athletic identity in the risk of injury occurrence and responses to and consequences of injury among young athletes. Methods: Studies on athletic identity in relation to sport injury, with a focus on young athletes, were extracted from a recent scoping review and identified through an updated literature search from April 2020 through June 2024. A total of 23 studies were examined. Results: Across the studies reviewed, high levels of athletic identity were associated with a reluctance to report injury-related symptoms, a tendency to endorse attitudes and behaviors reflecting a willingness to play through pain and injury, intensified physical and psychological symptoms after injury, a disposition toward over-adhering to rehabilitation, high levels of postinjury coping skills, and better functional and return-to-sport outcomes after injury among young athletes. Conclusions: Athletic identity may, therefore, be a source of both strength and vulnerability in young athletes in terms of sport injury processes and outcomes.
Concordance of Chest Radiography and Chest Computed Tomography Findings in Patients with Hematologic Malignancy and Invasive Mucormycosis: What Are the Prognostic Implications?
Authors: Wurster Sebastian , Cho Sung-Yeon , Allos Hazim , Franklin Alexander , Axell-House Dierdre B. , Jiang Ying , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: October 2024

Invasive pulmonary mucormycosis (IPM) is a deadly opportunistic mold infection in patients with hematological malignancies (HM). Radiologic imaging is essential for its timely diagnosis. Here, we compared IPM lesions visualized by chest computed tomography (CCT) and chest X-ray (CXR) and determined the prognostic significance of discordant imaging. Therefore, we reviewed 44 consecutive HM patients with probable/proven IPM at MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2000–2020 who had concurrent CCT and CXR studies performed. All 44 patients had abnormal CCTs and 39 (89%) had anormal CXR findings at IPM diagnosis. However, only 26 patients (59%) showed CCT-matching IPM-suspicious lesions on CXR. Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score > 18 at IPM diagnosis and breakthrough infection to Mucorales-active antifungals were the only independent risk factors for 42-day and/or 84-day mortality. Absence of neutropenia at IPM diagnosis, neutrophil recovery in neutropenic patients, and surgical revision of mucormycosis lesions were protective factors. Although not reaching significance on multivariable analysis, visualization of CCT-matching lesions on CXR was associated with significantly increased 84-day mortality (log-rank test, p = 0.033), possibly as a surrogate of extensive lesions and tissue necrosis. This observation supports the exploration of radiologic lesion kinetics as a prognostic staging tool in IPM patients.
Evaluating the Efficacy of a Pre-Established Lipid-Lowering Algorithm in Managing Hypercholesterolemia in Patients at Very High Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Henry Jean Philippe , Gabriel Laurence , Luchian Maria-Luiza , Higny Julien , Benoit Martin , Xhaët Olivier , Blommaert Dominique , Telbis Alin-Mihail , Robaye Benoit , Guedes Antoine , Demeure Fabian
Published: October 2024

Background: Recent data from European studies (EUROASPIRE V, DA VINCI, SANTORINI) indicate that achieving the LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) target in patients at very high cardiovascular risk is uncommon. Additionally, using a combination therapy involving statins and ezetimibe remains infrequent. Methods: A single-center assessment of a pre-defined lipid lowering treatment algorithm’s effectiveness at achieving the LDL-C target in patients at very high cardiovascular risk one month and one year after hospitalization. Results: 81 patients were included, all in secondary prevention. The average age of the patient was 66.9 years, and the main cardiovascular risk factors included hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and smoking history. Following the predefined lipid-lowering algorithm specific to our study, which involves initiating high-intensity statin therapy or a combination of statin and ezetimibe depending on initial LDL-C levels and patient history; 30 (37%) patients initiated high-intensity statin therapy (Atorvastatin (40 mg, 80 mg) or Rosuvastatin (20 mg, 40 mg)), while 51 (63%) started combination therapy with high-intensity statin and ezetimibe 10 mg. After one year, 57 (70.4%) remained adherent to their initial treatment, achieving a mean LDL-C of 49.5 ± 16.9 mg/dL, with 36 (63.2%) of them reaching the LDL-C target of <55 mg/dL. A total of 13 patients discontinued treatment, and 9 were lost to follow-up, withdrew from the study, or died. Conclusion: Initiating dual statin and ezetimibe therapy or high-intensity statin therapy early, based on the expected treatment efficacy, holds the potential to more rapidly and effectively achieve LDL-C targets in a larger proportion of very high-risk cardiovascular patients.
Resource Utilization of Rare-Earth-Rich Biomass and Ammonia Nitrogen Effluent from Mining
Authors: Li Weiye , Chen Zhiqiang , Chen Zhibiao , Feng Liujun , Yu Cailing
Published: October 2024

The post-treatment of heavy metal-enriched plants in mining areas and the purification of ammonia and nitrogen pollution in water bodies are significant for the ecological environment of ionic rare earth mining areas. Herein, we focused on the biochar production potential of Dicranopteris pedata, characterizing biochar prepared by an oxidative modification process and an iron modification process. We conducted adsorption experiments to comparatively investigate the adsorption performance of biochar on NH4+ and studied the fertilizer application and migration toxicity of the adsorbed biochar for rare earth elements (REEs). Results indicated that ~332.09 g of biochar could be produced per unit area of D. pedata under 100% clipping conditions. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area of oxidized biochar (H2O2BC) increased, and the pore size of iron-modified biochar increased. The adsorption behavior of biochar toward NH4+ was well represented by the pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models. H2O2BC demonstrated the strongest adsorption of NH4+ with maximum theoretical equilibrium adsorption of 43.40 mg·g−1, 37.14% higher than that of pristine biochar. The adsorption process of NH4+ on biochar is influenced by various physicochemical mechanisms, including pore absorption, electrostatic attraction, and functional group complexation. Furthermore, the metal ions in the biochar did not precipitate during the reaction process. The adsorbed NH4+ biochar promoted the growth of honey pomelo without risking REE pollution to the environment. Therefore, it can be applied as a nitrogen-carrying rare earth fertilizer in low rare earth areas. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the phytoremediation post-treatment of rare earth mining areas and the improvement of ammonia nitrogen wastewater management pathways in mining areas.
Vegetation Dynamics Studies Based on Ellenberg and Landolt Indicator Values: A Review
Authors: Ivanova Natalya , Zolotova Ekaterina
Published: October 2024

Understanding the dynamics and system of interrelationships between habitats and plant communities is key to making reliable predictions about sustainable land use, biodiversity conservation and the risks of environmental crises. At the same time, assessing the complex of environmental factors that determine the composition, structure and dynamics of plant communities is usually a long, time-consuming and expensive process. In this respect, the assessment of habitats on the basis of the indicator properties of the plants is of great interest. The aim of our study was to carry out a comprehensive review of vegetation dynamics studies based on the Ellenberg and Landolt indicator values in the last five years (2019–2023). We identified their strengths and priority areas for further research, which will contribute to improving the ecological indicator values for studying vegetation dynamics. The analysis of publications was carried out based on the recommendations of PRISMA 2020 and the VOSviewer software(version 1.6.18). The wide geographical range and high reliability of Landolt and Ellenberg indicator values for the study of different plant communities and variations in their dynamics are demonstrated. At the same time, the application of these environmental indicator values has its peculiarities. For example, the Ellenberg indicator values show a wider research geography and are more often used to study the dynamics of forest ecosystems than the Landolt indicator values, which are more often used to study disturbed landscapes and the dynamics of individual species. However, these methods have been used with almost the same frequency for grasslands, wetlands and coastal vegetation. The citation analysis confirmed the high interest in the environmental indicator values and their widespread use in research, but also revealed the weak development of a network of relationships. This suggests that modern researchers are not well aware of, and rarely use, the results of research carried out in recent years, especially if they are based on indicator values other than those used by them. At the same time, a number of unresolved issues are clearly identified, which require additional research and a consolidation of research teams if they are to be addressed more successfully. We hope that the results of this meta-analysis will provide the impetus for further development of the concept of environmental indicators and help researchers to overcome the current questions around applying indicator values in the study of vegetation dynamics, as well as help researchers to understand the strengths of this methodology.
Language Diversity and Bi/Multilingualism in Aphasia Research
Authors: Egia-Zabala Monike , Munarriz-Ibarrola Amaia
Published: October 2024

Previous research on aphasia has recognised the need for cross-linguistic studies and studies on bi/multilingual aphasia. However, a study by Beveridge and Bak revealed that papers published between 2000 and 2009 were restricted to a few languages, with a clear predominance of English. The aim of this study is to present a follow-up to that study with more recent literature from the next decade (2010–2019) and to compare it with the previous one. We analysed 307 articles published between 2010 and 2019 following a similar procedure to the one used by Beveridge and Bak. The results revealed that there still is a pronounced bias towards studies on English speakers (60.29%), that the distribution of language families is similar across the two decades, with the exception of the increment in non-Indo-European languages, and that there has been an increase in studies reporting bi/multilinguals’ performance in more than one language. Still, the literature on aphasia between 2010 and 2019 seems not to reflect the reality of the world’s languages. We discuss some possible explanations for these findings related to challenges for clinical practice as well as insights for future research.
Towards More Sustainable Schiff Base Carboxylate Anodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Gómez-Berenguer Irene , Herradón Bernardo , Amarilla José Manuel , Castillo-Martínez Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Bismine sodium salt (BSNa), a Schiff base with two sodium carboxylates, has shown promising electrochemical performance as an anode material. However, its synthesis involves toxic reagents and generates impurities, requiring significant solvent use for purification. This study introduces a novel synthetic method using sodium hydroxide as the sole reagent, which acts as both a base and Na source in the ion exchange step. With this procedure, we reduce the amounts of chemicals, diminish toxicity, improve the purity of the target compound, and use less solvent while maintaining comparable electrochemical performance. Additionally, the procedure is carried out under anhydrous conditions that avoid the undesirable hydrolysis of the imine linkages. In a previous report, the processing of the composite electrode was not established. In this article, we address this issue; the electrochemical performance, specifically the rate capability, is enhanced by processing the electrodes in laminate form rather than powder. As alternative to N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), a common but disadvantageous solvent in laminate processing, other solvents were explored by testing acetone (DMK), methylisopropylketone (MIPK), and a DMK-NMP mixture. The remarkable electrochemical performance (specific capacity of 260–280 mAh/g, and capacity retentions higher than 84% at 1C (260 mA/g) remained consistent across these solvents. Furthermore, we investigated replacing copper with aluminum as the current collector to reduce costs and increase the energy density of the battery. While aluminum performed comparably to copper at low specific currents C/10 (26 mA/g), it showed a significant shift in the redox process potentials at higher specific currents.
Preparation of Imidazole Compounds as Latent Curing Agents and Their Application in RGB LED Packaging
Authors: Chen Jiangcong , Zhang Shujuan , Li Biwen , Chen Pinghu , Li Hengfeng
Published: October 2024

LED packaging miniaturization has raised more requirements for LED materials. As a material contacting the LED chip directly, the reliability of LED non-conductive adhesive has also garnered increasing attention. This study optimized the formula for non-conductive adhesives for an imidazole curing system. The optimized composition of the adhesive is 25%wt for the curing agent and 30%wt for the silica. The prepared non-conductive adhesive has a 7-day pot life and 9-month storage stability. The shear strength reached 87 g and 72 g at 25 °C and 160 °C, respectively. The reliability of the LED modules packaged with the non-conductive adhesive was researched. The green and blue light intensity change was 4.7%, 43.7%, respectively, indicating good anti-aging properties. The blue light decay was mainly due to adhesive aging. The non-conductive adhesive effectively prevented “caterpillar” growth. This provides useful and practical guidelines for industry for applications of adhesive in different packages.
Laser Cutting of Titanium Alloy Plates: A Review of Processing, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Ya , Wang Chunyu , Xu Wentao , Zhang Xianfeng , Ren Kerong , Wang Shuai , Hua Qing
Published: October 2024

The growing use of titanium alloys has led to the gradual replacement of traditional processing methods by laser cutting technology, making it the preferred method for processing titanium alloy plates due to its high efficiency, precision, and adaptability. In this review, the characteristics of laser cutting technology and its application in titanium alloy plate processing are summarized, outlining several aspects of the cutting process, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the material after cutting, along with simulation predictions. Previous research categorized laser-cutting input parameters into beam parameters and process parameters, with the commonly used parameters being the laser power, cutting speed, and gas pressure. Various parameter combinations can achieve different cutting qualities, and seven indices can be used to evaluate the cutting process, with the surface roughness and slit width serving as the most common indices. Different auxiliary gases have shown a significant impact on the laser cutting quality, with commonly used gases consisting of nitrogen, argon, and air. Argon-assisted cutting generally results in better surface quality. Due to the rapid temperature change, the titanium alloy microstructure will undergo a non-diffusive martensitic phase transformation during laser cutting, producing a heat-affected zone. Experimental studies and simulations of the mechanical properties have shown that the occurrence of a martensitic phase transformation increases the hardness and residual tensile stress of the material, which reduces the fatigue strength and static tensile properties. In addition, studies have found that the more streaks appear on the cut surface, the lower the fatigue strength is, with fatigue cracks arising from the stripes. Hence, the established analytical solution model and three-dimensional finite element model can effectively predict the temperature distribution and residual stress during the cutting process. This can provide a better understanding of the high residual stress characteristics of the cutting edge and the stripe formation mechanism, allowing researchers to better explore the mechanism of laser cutting.
Ceramics for Microelectromechanical Systems Applications: A Review
Authors: Fallah Nia Ehsan , Kouki Ammar
Published: October 2024

A comprehensive review of the application of different ceramics for MEMS devices is presented. Main ceramics materials used for MEMS systems and devices including alumina, zirconia, aluminum Nitride, Silicon Nitride, and LTCC are introduced. Conventional and new methods of fabricating each material are explained based on the literature, along with the advantages of the new approaches, mainly additive manufacturing, i.e., 3D-printing technologies. Various manufacturing processes with relevant sub-techniques are detailed and the ones that are more suitable to have an application for MEMS devices are highlighted with their properties. In the main body of this paper, each material with its application for MEMS is categorized and explained. The majority of works are within three main classifications, including the following: (i) using ceramics as a substrate for MEMS devices to be mounted or fabricated on top of it; (ii) ceramics are a part of the materials used for an MEMS device or a monolithic fabrication of MEMS and ceramics; and finally, (iii) using ceramics as packaging solution for MEMS devices. We elaborate on how ceramics may be superior substitutes over other materials when delicate MEMS-based systems need to be assembled or packaged by a simpler fabrication process as well as their advantages when they need to operate in harsh environments.
Retardation of Chlorine-36 by Cementitious Materials Relevant to the Disposal of Radioactive Wastes
Authors: Isaacs Matthew , Lange Steve , Milodowski Antoni E. , Bosbach Dirk , Read David , Deissmann Guido
Published: October 2024

The activation product chlorine-36 (36Cl) is an important radionuclide within the context of the disposal of nuclear wastes, due to its long half-life and environmental mobility. Its behaviour in a range of potential cementitious encapsulants and backfill materials was studied by evaluating its uptake by pure cement hydration phases and hardened cement pastes (HCP). Limited uptake of chloride was observed on calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H) by electrostatic sorption and by calcium monosulphoferroaluminate hydrate (AFm) phases, due to anion exchange/solid solution formation. Diffusion of 36Cl through cured monolithic HCP samples, representative of cementitious materials considered for use in deep geological repositories across Europe, revealed a markedly diverse migration behaviour. Two of the matrices, a ground granulated blast furnace slag/ordinary Portland cement blend (GGBS–OPC) and an ordinary Portland cement (CEM I) effectively retarded 36Cl migration, retaining the radionuclide in narrow, reactive zones. The migration behaviour of 36Cl within the cementitious matrices is not strictly correlated to the measured sorption distribution ratios (Rd-values), suggesting that physical factors related to the microstructure can also have a distinct effect on diffusion behaviour. The findings have implications when selecting cementitious grouts and/or backfill materials for 36Cl-bearing radioactive wastes.
Repurposing of c-MET Inhibitor Tivantinib Inhibits Pediatric Neuroblastoma Cellular Growth
Authors: Chilamakuri Rameswari , Agarwal Saurabh
Published: October 2024

Background: Dysregulation of receptor tyrosine kinase c-MET is known to promote tumor development by stimulating oncogenic signaling pathways in different cancers, including pediatric neuroblastoma (NB). NB is an extracranial solid pediatric cancer that accounts for almost 15% of all pediatric cancer-related deaths, with less than a 50% long-term survival rate. Results: In this study, we analyzed a large cohort of primary NB patient data and revealed that high MET expression strongly correlates with poor overall survival, disease progression, relapse, and high MYCN levels in NB patients. To determine the effects of c-MET in NB, we repurposed a small molecule inhibitor, tivantinib, and found that c-MET inhibition significantly inhibits NB cellular growth. Tivantinib significantly blocks NB cell proliferation and 3D spheroid tumor formation and growth in different MYCN-amplified and MYCN-non-amplified NB cell lines. Furthermore, tivantinib blocks the cell cycle at the G2/M phase transition and induces apoptosis in different NB cell lines. As expected, c-MET inhibition by tivantinib inhibits the expression of multiple genes in PI3K, STAT, and Ras cell signaling pathways. Conclusions: Overall, our data indicate that c-MET directly regulates NB growth and 3D spheroid growth, and c-MET inhibition by tivantinib may be an effective therapeutic approach for high-risk NB. Further developing c-MET targeted therapeutic approaches and combining them with current therapies may pave the way for effectively translating novel therapies for NB and other c-MET-driven cancers.
Medicinal Plants Used to Treat Skin Diseases and for Cosmetic Purposes in Norway
Authors: Ijeabuonwu AmalaChukwu M. , Bernatoniene Jurga , Pranskuniene Zivile
Published: October 2024

Skin diseases in Norway represents an important area of study due to their incidence and prevalence, yet ethnobotanical research in this context remains scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of Norwegian traditional medicine regarding the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes through a comparative analysis with EMA monographs. Participants were surveyed using semi-structured interviews. The two samples comprised 22 individuals from Bodø and 26 individuals from other Norwegian communities, all of whom use medicinal plants for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes. The indications for skin diseases identified in the study were compared with the European Union herbal monographs published by the European Medicines Agency. Fieldwork was conducted between June 2022 and September 2023, during which 42 plant species from 22 families were recorded. More than half of these plant species (65.38%) were used without European Medicines Agency-approved medical indications. From a public safety perspective, ensuring the safety of self-treatment for skin diseases is a critical research focus for future ethnobotanical studies.
Members of WRKY Group III Transcription Factors Are Important in Mite Infestation in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.)
Authors: Chen Peng , Zhou Xianhong , Wang Haiting , Zhang Xiuxia , Wang Lei , Gao Huanhuan , Zhuang Qianying , Li Heqin , Zhang Ansheng
Published: October 2024

Strawberry is frequently attacked by mites, which directly affects the yield and quality of this fruit species. The WRKY Group III transcription factors (TFs) play an important role in plant tolerance to biotic sources of stress, such as pathogens and insect pests. In this study, six Group III WRKY TFs (FaWRKY25, FaWRKY31, FaWRKY32, FaWRKY43, FaWRKY44, and FaWRKY45) were identified in strawberry. A phylogenetic analysis showed that the six WRKY III TFs were divided into two clades and all had a conserved WRKYGQK domain and the C-X7-C-X23-H-T-C zinc finger motif. An interaction network analysis revealed that FaWRKY44 was co-expressing with FaWRKY25 and FaWRKY45. The expression patterns showed that the WRKY Group III genes responded to plant hormones and mite infestation in strawberry. To further verify the role of FaWRKY25 in plant resistance to mites, we cloned the FaWRKY25 gene and overexpressed it in transgenic plants. An in vivo subcellular localization analysis indicated that the FaWRKY25 protein was localized in the nucleus. Fewer mites were also detected on the wild-type plants than on FaWRKY25-overexpressing transgenic plants, suggesting that FaWRKY25 negatively regulates the resistance of strawberry to mites. The present study advances our understanding on a potential target that mites use to manipulate host plant defenses.