bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Heart-Kidney Transplant—Does Hospital Experience With Heart Transplant or Kidney Transplant Have a Greater Impact on Patient Outcomes?
Authors: Catalano Michael A. , Pupovac Stevan , Jhaveri Kenar D. , Stevens Gerin R. , Hartman Alan R. , Yu Pey-Jen
Published: April 2023

High institutional transplant volume is associated with improved outcomes in isolated heart and kidney transplant. The aim of this study was to assess trends and outcomes of simultaneous heart-kidney transplant (SHKT) nationally, as well as the impact of institutional heart and kidney transplant volume on survival. All adult patients who underwent SHKT between 2005–2019 were identified using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database. Annual institutional volumes in single organ transplant were determined. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to assess the impact of demographics, comorbidities, and institutional transplant volumes on 1-year survival. 1564 SHKT were identified, increasing from 54 in 2005 to 221 in 2019. In centers performing SHKT, median annual heart transplant volume was 35.0 (IQR 24.0–56.0) and median annual kidney transplant volume was 166.0 (IQR 89.5–224.0). One-year survival was 88.4%. In multivariable analysis, increasing heart transplant volume, but not kidney transplant volume, was associated with improved 1-year survival. Increasing donor age, dialysis requirement, ischemic times, and bilirubin were also independently associated with reduced 1-year survival. Based on this data, high-volume heart transplant centers may be better equipped with managing SHKT patients than high-volume kidney transplant centers.
Interrelationship between Share of Women in Parliament and Gender and Development: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Sarangi Subrat , Singh R. K. Renin , Thakur Barun Kumar
Published: April 2023

Gender and development are among the two most important components of any economy to sustain its perpetual and sustainable economic growth in both the long as well as short run. The role of women in parliament and the interrelationship between gender and development is critically analysed. Women’s representation in parliament is the dependent variable and the predictor variables considered are gender development index, female access to assets, female labour force, and country GDP per capita. Data were collected from the UNDP human development report for the period 2015 to 2021–2022 and World Bank for 188 countries of which finally 159 were considered to develop the model based on data availability. We have used the theoretical lens of social stratification theory and gender role theory to frame the hypothesis. A random effects model-based panel regression analysis of the data indicated a strong positive relationship between gender development index and the dependent variable, but no relationship between female labour force, and access to assets. The study addresses a critical gap in policy and development of the literature on gender, politics, and development using a global data set, establishing the importance of indicators such as gender development index, and laying down the path for future research on the subject.
Impact of Seed Treatment with Imidacloprid, Clothianidin and Thiamethoxam on Soil, Plants, Bees and Hive Products
Authors: Zaharia Roxana , Trotuș Elena , Trașcă Georgeta , Georgescu Emil , Șapcaliu Agripina , Fătu Viorel , Petrișor Cristina , Mincea Carmen
Published: April 2023

This paper presents studies performed for the monitoring of imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam residues applied as seed treatment in rapeseed (Brassica napus ssp. oleifera), maize (Zea mays) and sunflower crops (Helianthus annuus). The experiments were located in representative areas of the mentioned crops. Residue levels were determined in plant samples at different phenological development stages, including flowers, as well as in bees and hive products (pollen, honeycomb, honey) by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS). The analyses were performed in ISO 17025-accredited laboratories, referring to the limit of quantification (LOQ), characteristic of the method used to determine the residues. In 2019, the percentage of samples that contained residues of the three substances, applied to the seed, was 16.39%, representing 20 samples out of the total of 122 analyzed samples. In 2020, 10 samples contained neonicotinoid residues above the LOQ, including 5 soil samples and 5 plant samples, representing 6.17% of the total samples. In 2021, from 149 samples with neonicotinoid applied as seed treatment, residues were identified in 12 soil samples and 11 plant samples, representing 15.43% of the total number of samples. In 2022, only 12 soil samples and 1 pasture sample contained residues above the LOQ. The results show that the highest percentage of samples with residues above the LOQ was recorded by the soil samples, while the flower and bee samples had the lowest percentages of samples with residues above the LOQ; no residues of the three neonicotinoid substances were identified in the honey samples.
FvMYB44, a Strawberry R2R3-MYB Transcription Factor, Improved Salt and Cold Stress Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Wenhui , Wei Yangfan , Zhang Lihua , Wang Yu , Song Penghui , Li Xingguo , Han Deguo
Published: April 2023

MYB (v-MYB avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog) transcription factor (TF) family has numerous members with complex and diverse functions, which perform an integral role in regulating the plant’s response to adversity. This study used cloning to obtain a novel MYB TF gene from the diploid strawberry Fragaria vesca, which was given the designation FvMYB44. Subcellular localization results showed that the protein of FvMYB44 was a nuclear localization protein. The resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana to salt and low temperature stresses was greatly enhanced by the overexpression of FvMYB44. When subjected to salt and temperature stress, transgenic plants showed higher proline and chlorophyll concentrations and higher superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities than wild-type (WT) and unloaded line (UL) of A. thaliana. In contrast, WT and UL lines had higher malondialdehyde (MDA) content and reactive oxygen species ROS (O2− and H2O2) content. These findings suggest that FvMYB44 may perform a role in controlling the response of A. thaliana to cold and salt stress.
Whole-Genome Resequencing Reveals the Genetic Diversity and Selection Signatures of the Brassica juncea from the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau
Authors: Yuan Xiaoyan , Fu Minglian , Li Genze , Qu Cunmin , Liu Hao , Li Xuan , Zhang Yunyun , Zhang Yusong , Zhao Kaiqin , Zhang Lifan , Luo Yanqing , Li Jinfeng , He Xiaoying , He Liu , Liu Feihu
Published: April 2023

Brassica juncea has adapted to diverse climate zones and latitudes, especially in the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau with the complexity and diversity of the ecological types of western China. However, the genetic variations underlying the diversity of these ecotypes are poorly known. In this study, we resequenced the genome of 193 indigenous B. juncea accessions and obtained 1.04 million high-quality SNPs and 3.23 million InDels by mapping reads to the reference genomes of B. juncea var. timuda. Phenotype, population genetic, phylogenetic and principal component analyses showed considerable genetic variation including four distinct genetic groups. Selective sweep analysis and a genome-wide association study revealed the candidate genes for seed color and fatty acid biosynthesis. The results provide a comprehensive insight into the spread and improvement of B. juncea and laya foundation for accelerating rapeseed breeding by facilitating screenings of molecular markers.
Mortality Causes in Captive Cantabrian capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus) in Spain
Authors: García-Rodríguez Alberto , Herrero-García Gloria , de Garnica García María Gracia , García Esgueva Álvaro , Balsera Ramón , Oleaga Álvaro , Fernández Daniel , Amado Javier , Royo Luis José , García Iglesias María José , Balseiro Ana
Published: April 2023

The Cantabrian capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus) is one of the most severely threatened subspecies of capercaillie. Its current population range is restricted to a small area of the Cantabrian Mountains (northwestern Spain), with only around 200 individuals remaining. As part of the national strategy for the conservation of the subspecies, the Cantabrian capercaillie Captive Breeding Center of Sobrescobio opened in 2009. Here, we use the information provided by the necropsies performed in this facility on 29 individuals (11 males, 13 females and 5 undetermined; 16 chicks and 13 adults) in order to describe the main mortality causes of captive-bred Cantabrian capercaillies. After necropsy, tissue samples were taken for evaluation using standard methods in histology and microbiology. The majority of the captive animals (18/29, 62.07%) died due to infectious diseases, mainly due to Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens, or Aspergillus fumigatus infection. The remaining 11 animals died due to stress-related processes (i.e., rupture of the heart apex and cardiomyopathy or neurogenic shock) (8/29, 27.59%), duodenal obstruction and coelomitis (1/29, 3.45%), perforation of the proventriculus and heart with a briar branch (1/29, 3.45%) or euthanasia due to a valgus leg deformity that prevented proper animal welfare (1/29, 3.45%). Young animals (i.e., younger than 2 months) died mainly due to infectious diseases (14/16, 87.5%), while stress-related causes were responsible for most adult deaths (7/13, 53.85%). We additionally report that two free-ranging adult males died due to exertional myopathy. This study provides relevant information for reducing mortality in captive capercaillies and improving both living conditions in captivity and the adaptation of these animals to the wild.
Procalcitonin Values Fail to Track the Presence of Secondary Bacterial Infections in COVID-19 ICU Patients
Authors: Harte Elsa , Kumarasamysarma Sharuha , Phillips Benjamin , Mackay Olivia , Rashid Zohra , Malikova Natalya , Mukit Abdullah , Ramachandran Saraswathi , Biju Anna , Brown Kate , Watts Rosie , Hodges Charlie , Tuckwell William , Wetherall Nick , Breen Henry , Price Shannon , Szakmany Tamas
Published: April 2023

The development of secondary bacterial infections in COVID-19 patients has been associated with increased mortality and worse clinical outcomes. Consequently, many patients have received empirical antibiotic therapies with the potential to further exacerbate an ongoing antimicrobial resistance crisis. The pandemic has seen a rise in the use of procalcitonin testing to guide antimicrobial prescribing, although its value remains elusive. This single-centre retrospective study sought to analyse the efficacy of procalcitonin in identifying secondary infections in COVID-19 patients and evaluate the proportion of patients prescribed antibiotics to those with confirmed secondary infection. Inclusion criteria comprised patients admitted to the Grange University Hospital intensive care unit with SARS-CoV-2 infection throughout the second and third waves of the pandemic. Data collected included daily inflammatory biomarkers, antimicrobial prescriptions, and microbiologically proven secondary infections. There was no statistically significant difference between PCT, WBC, or CRP values in those with an infection versus those without. A total of 57.02% of patients had a confirmed secondary infection, with 80.2% prescribed antibiotics in Wave 2, compared to 44.07% with confirmed infection and 52.1% prescribed antibiotics in Wave 3. In conclusion, procalcitonin values failed to indicate the emergence of critical care-acquired infection in COVID-19 patients.
Dietary Phenolic Compounds: Their Health Benefits and Association with the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Matsumura Yoko , Kitabatake Masahiro , Kayano Shin-ichi , Ito Toshihiro
Published: April 2023

Oxidative stress causes various diseases, such as type II diabetes and dyslipidemia, while antioxidants in foods may prevent a number of diseases and delay aging by exerting their effects in vivo. Phenolic compounds are phytochemicals such as flavonoids which consist of flavonols, flavones, flavanonols, flavanones, anthocyanidins, isoflavones, lignans, stilbenoids, curcuminoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. They have phenolic hydroxyl groups in their molecular structures. These compounds are present in most plants, are abundant in nature, and contribute to the bitterness and color of various foods. Dietary phenolic compounds, such as quercetin in onions and sesamin in sesame, exhibit antioxidant activity and help prevent cell aging and diseases. In addition, other kinds of compounds, such as tannins, have larger molecular weights, and many unexplained aspects still exist. The antioxidant activities of phenolic compounds may be beneficial for human health. On the other hand, metabolism by intestinal bacteria changes the structures of these compounds with antioxidant properties, and the resulting metabolites exert their effects in vivo. In recent years, it has become possible to analyze the composition of the intestinal microbiota. The augmentation of the intestinal microbiota by the intake of phenolic compounds has been implicated in disease prevention and symptom recovery. Furthermore, the “brain–gut axis”, which is a communication system between the gut microbiome and brain, is attracting increasing attention, and research has revealed that the gut microbiota and dietary phenolic compounds affect brain homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the usefulness of dietary phenolic compounds with antioxidant activities against some diseases, their biotransformation by the gut microbiota, the augmentation of the intestinal microflora, and their effects on the brain–gut axis.
The Influence of 5′,8-Cyclo-2′-Deoxyguanosine on ds-DNA Charge Transfer Depends on Its Diastereomeric Form: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Karwowski Bolesław T.
Published: April 2023

The genetic information stored in the nucleobase sequence is continuously exposed to harmful extra- and intra-cellular factors, which can lead to different types of DNA damage, with more than 70 lesion types identified so far. In this article, the influence of a multi-damage site containing (5′R/S) 5′,8-cyclo-2′-deoxyguanosine (cdG) and 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (OXOdG) on charge transfer through ds-DNA was taken into consideration. The spatial geometries of oligo-RcdG: d[A1(5′R)cG2A3OXOG4A5]*d[T5C4T3C2T1] and oligo-ScdG: d[A1(5′S)cG2A3OXOG4A5]*d[T5C4T3C2T1] were optimized at the M06-2X/6-D95**//M06-2X/sto-3G level of theory in the aqueous phase using ONIOM methodology. For all the electronic property energies under discussion, the M06-2X/6-31++G** level of theory was used. Additionally, the non-equilibrated and equilibrated solvent-solute interactions were into consideration. The obtained results confirm the predisposition of OXOdG to radical cation formation regardless of the presence of other lesions in a ds-DNA structure. In the case of electron transfer, however, the situation is different. An excess electron migration towards (5′S)cdG was found to be preferred in the case of oligo-ScdG, while in the case of oligo-RcdG, OXOdG was favored. The above observation was confirmed by the charge transfer rate constant, vertical/adiabatic ionization potential, and electron affinity energy values, as well as the charge and spin distribution analysis. The obtained results indicate that 5′,8-cyclo-2′-deoxyguanosine, depending on the C5′ atom chirality, can significantly influence the charge migration process through the double helix. The above can be manifested by the slowdown of DNA lesion recognition and removal processes, which can increase the probability of mutagenesis and subsequent pathological processes. With regard to anticancer therapy (radio/chemo), the presence of (5′S)cdG in the structure of formed clustered DNA damage can lead to improvements in cancer treatment.
Environmental Reconstruction from the Identification of Magnetic Minerals in the Upper Sedimentary Infill of the Gran Dolina Cave (Burgos, Spain)
Authors: D’Arcangelo Serena , Martín-Hernández Fátima , M. Parés Josep
Published: April 2023

The cave system in the Sierra de Atapuerca holds one of the most important archaeological sites for the understanding of early human occupation in Europe. Among the different cavities and galleries, the Gran Dolina cave yielded a new hominin species coined as Homo antecessor of an Early Pleistocene age. Encouraged by our previous results in Gran Dolina, we carried out a study to extend and deepen our rockmagnetic investigation of the paleoenvironmental reconstruction of the upper Gran Dolina cave based on experiments that include composition, relative concentration, and grain size of the magnetic iron oxides present in the sediments. Based on the rockmagnetic experiments, we identified magnetite, hematite, goethite, and possibly maghemite in changeable amounts along the profile, which allows us to complement the existing shortage in the literature on the palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of the site. We tentatively interpret the rockmagnetic changes recorded in the cave sediments in terms of glacial/interglacial conditions, furnishing the base for a better understanding for the formation conditions of this unprecedented archaeological site.
A Combination of Laboratory Testing, RCE, and Corrosion Loop for Inhibitor Selection
Authors: Bianchi Gustavo Luis , Acosta Verónica , Seijas Carlos
Published: April 2023

Corrosion inhibitors are evaluated in the oil industry with electrochemical tests of resistance to linear polarization with rotating cylinders following ASTM G170 and NACE 3T199 standards. With these tests, we can determine the corrosion rate (CR) and efficiency of corrosion inhibitors. In this work, a corrosion test protocol used by hydrocarbon-producing companies for the testing of corrosion inhibitors was used. This protocol consists of a 1045 carbon steel working electrode in a NACE solution composed of 9.62% NaCl, 0.45% CaCl2, 0.19% MgCl2, and 89.74% H2O, at a temperature of 65 °C and saturated with CO2. Each inhibitor tested was subjected to a series of 6000-4000-2000-4000-6000 rpm tests using rotating cylinder electrodes (RCEs). These electrochemical studies were carried out with the rotating cylinder to evaluate the ability of the inhibitor to prevent the corrosion of carbon steel in the presence of a centrifugal force. In our opinion, this test does not provide corrosion engineers with enough information to be used as a predictive tool, since what is obtained is the CR in a very short testing time. This document proposes the use of two more appropriate test methodologies, the rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) and the flow loop (FL), to evaluate the performance of the corrosion inhibitor. For the FL, the selected flow rate was 1.2 m/s, the same rate that fluids have in oil company pipelines installed in Neuquén, Argentina. Firstly, according to the company’s protocol, inhibitors are required to have an efficiency greater than or equal to 90% in RCE tests; therefore, inhibitors that meet these requirements were tested in the FL test. Unlike the RCE test, the FL test represents the experimental conditions of the laboratory that are closest to reality, for the evaluation of the performance of the inhibitors used in the pipelines of the oil and gas industry. FL tests have several problems involving corrosion, erosion, abrasion, biphasic fluids, the time it takes for the inhibitor to become effective, and the duration of its effectiveness.
Towards Mitigating Jellyfish Attacks Based on Honesty Metrics in V2X Autonomous Networks
Authors: Benguenane Messaoud , Korichi Ahmed , Brik Bouziane , Azzaoui Nadjet
Published: April 2023

In vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks, security and safety are inherently difficult tasks due to the distinct characteristics of such networks, such as their highly dynamic topology and frequent connectivity disruptions. Jellyfish attacks are a sort of denial of service attack that are challenging to deal with, since they conform to protocol norms while impairing network performance, particularly in terms of communication overhead and reliability. Numerous existing approaches have developed new techniques with which to identify and prevent these attacks; however, no approach has been capable of facing all three types of Jellyfish attacks, which include reordering attacks, delay variance attacks, and periodic drop attacks. In this work, we design a new protocol that analyzes the behavior of every node in a network and selects the trusted routes for data transmission to their intended destination by calculating different Honesty metrics. The OMNET++ simulator was used to evaluate the overall performance of the proposed protocol. Various evaluation metrics, such as the packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and throughput, are considered and compared with other existing approaches.
Characterization and Source Apportionment of PM in Handan—A Case Study during the COVID-19
Authors: Shu Mushui , Ji Xiaohui , Wang Yu , Dou Yan , Zhou Pengyao , Xu Zhizhen , Guo Ling , Dan Mo , Ding Ding , Hu Yifei
Published: April 2023

Handan is a typical city affected by regional particulate pollution. In order to investigate particulate matter (PM) characterization, source contributions and health risks for the general populations, we collected PM samples at two sites affected by a pollution event (12–18 May 2020) during the COVID-19 pandemic and analyzed the major components (SNA, OCEC, WSIIs, and metal elements). A PCA-MLR model was used for source apportionment. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks caused by metal elements in the PM were assessed. The results show that the renewal of old neighborhoods significantly influences local PM, and primarily the PM10; the average contribution to PM10 was 27 μg/m3. The source apportionment has indicated that all other elements came from dust, except Cd, Pb and Zn, and the contribution of the dust source to PM was 60.4%. As PM2.5 grew to PM10, the PM changed from basic to acidic, resulting in a lower NH4+ concentration in PM10 than PM2.5. The carcinogenic risk of PM10 was more than 1 × 10−6 for both children and adults, and the excess mortality caused by the renewal of the community increased by 23%. Authorities should pay more attention to the impact of renewal on air quality. The backward trajectory and PSCF calculations show that both local sources and short-distance transport contribute to PM—local sources for PM10, and short-distance transport in southern Hebei, northern Henan and northern Anhui for PM2.5, SO2 and NO2.
Application of Variational Iterations Method for Studying Physically and Geometrically Nonlinear Kirchhoff Nanoplates: A Mathematical Justification
Authors: Tebyakin Aleksey , Kalutsky Leonid , Yakovleva Tatyana , Krysko Anton
Published: April 2023

We have proposed a development of the variational iteration method (VIM), or extended Kantorovich method, by studying physically nonlinear (FN) or geometrically nonlinear (GN) Kirchhoff nanoplates as an example. The modified couple stress theory was used for modeling size-dependent factors of the Kirchhoff nanoplates. Nested one into the other iteration procedures of the Birger method of variable elasticity parameters, of the variational iteration method (VIM), and of the Newton–Raphson method for physically nonlinear (FN) Kirchhoff nanoplates were constructed. The solution of problems for geometrically nonlinear (GN) Kirchhoff nanoplates was carried out on the basis of the variational iteration method and the Newton–Raphson method. The validity of the results was ensured by the coincidence of the results obtained via several methods of reducing partial differential equations to ordinary differential equations and via the finite difference method. The computational effectiveness of the proposed iterative procedure was demonstrated in terms of both accuracy and performance. A comparison of the results obtained showed that the variational iteration method (VIM) is the most efficient and fastest of all the methods considered both for problems with physical nonlinearity and for geometrically nonlinear problems.
An Intelligent Approach Using Machine Learning Techniques to Predict Flow in People
Authors: Pegalajar M. C. , Ruiz L. G. B. , Pérez-Moreiras E. , Boada-Grau J. , Serrano-Fernandez M. J.
Published: April 2023

The goal of this study is to estimate the state of consciousness known as Flow, which is associated with an optimal experience and can indicate a person’s efficiency in both personal and professional settings. To predict Flow, we employ artificial intelligence techniques using a set of variables not directly connected with its construct. We analyse a significant amount of data from psychological tests that measure various personality traits. Data mining techniques support conclusions drawn from the psychological study. We apply linear regression, regression tree, random forest, support vector machine, and artificial neural networks. The results show that the multi-layer perceptron network is the best estimator, with an MSE of 0.007122 and an accuracy of 88.58%. Our approach offers a novel perspective on the relationship between personality and the state of consciousness known as Flow.
Oleic Acid-Containing Phosphatidylinositol Is a Blood Biomarker Candidate for SPG28
Authors: Morikawa Takuya , Takahashi Masatomo , Izumi Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi , Moriyama Kosei , Hattori Gohsuke , Fujioka Ryuta , Miura Shiroh , Shibata Hiroki
Published: April 2023

Hereditary spastic paraplegia is a genetic neurological disorder characterized by spasticity of the lower limbs, and spastic paraplegia type 28 is one of its subtypes. Spastic paraplegia type 28 is a hereditary neurogenerative disorder with an autosomal recessive inheritance caused by loss of function of DDHD1. DDHD1 encodes phospholipase A1, which catalyzes phospholipids to lysophospholipids such as phosphatidic acids and phosphatidylinositols to lysophosphatidic acids and lysophoshatidylinositols. Quantitative changes in these phospholipids can be key to the pathogenesis of SPG28, even at subclinical levels. By lipidome analysis using plasma from mice, we globally examined phospholipids to identify molecules showing significant quantitative changes in Ddhd1 knockout mice. We then examined reproducibility of the quantitative changes in human sera including SPG28 patients. We identified nine kinds of phosphatidylinositols that show significant increases in Ddhd1 knockout mice. Of these, four kinds of phosphatidylinositols replicated the highest level in the SPG28 patient serum. All four kinds of phosphatidylinositols contained oleic acid. This observation suggests that the amount of oleic acid-containing PI was affected by loss of function of DDHD1. Our results also propose the possibility of using oleic acid-containing PI as a blood biomarker for SPG28.
Urticaria: A Narrative Overview of Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Schettini Natale , Corazza Monica , Schenetti Cecilia , Pacetti Lucrezia , Borghi Alessandro
Published: April 2023

Urticaria is an inflammatory skin disorder that may occur in isolation or associated with angioedema and/or anaphylaxis. Clinically, it is characterized by the presence of smooth, erythematous or blanching, itchy swelling, called wheals or hives, which greatly vary in size and shape and last less than 24 h before fading to leave normal skin. Urticaria is the consequence of mast-cell degranulation that can be caused by immunological or non-immunological mechanisms. From a clinical point of view, many skin conditions can mimic urticaria and their recognition is mandatory for a correct management and therapeutic approach. We have reviewed all of the main relevant studies which addressed differential diagnosis of urticarial, published until December 2022. The National Library of Medicine PubMed database was used for the electronic research. The present review offers a clinical narrative overview, based on the available literature, of the principal skin disorders that can be misdiagnosed as urticaria (mainly autoinflammatory or autoimmune disorders, drug-induced reactions, and hyperproliferative diseases). The aim of this review is to provide clinicians a useful tool for correctly suspecting and identifying all of these conditions.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—The Chicken or the Egg Dilemma
Authors: Kosmalski Marcin , Śliwińska Agnieszka , Drzewoski Józef
Published: April 2023

In clinical practice, we often deal with patients who suffer from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) concurrent with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The etiopathogenesis of NAFLD is mainly connected with insulin resistance (IR) and obesity. Similarly, the latter patients are in the process of developing T2DM. However, the mechanisms of NAFLD and T2DM coexistence have not been fully elucidated. Considering that both diseases and their complications are of epidemic proportions and significantly affect the length and quality of life, we aimed to answer which of these diseases appears first and thereby highlight the need for their diagnosis and treatment. To address this question, we present and discuss the epidemiological data, diagnoses, complications and pathomechanisms of these two coexisting metabolic diseases. This question is difficult to answer due to the lack of a uniform procedure for NAFLD diagnosis and the asymptomatic nature of both diseases, especially at their beginning stages. To conclude, most researchers suggest that NAFLD appears as the first disease and starts the sequence of circumstances leading ultimately to the development of T2DM. However, there are also data suggesting that T2DM develops before NAFLD. Despite the fact that we cannot definitively answer this question, it is very important to bring the attention of clinicians and researchers to the coexistence of NAFLD and T2DM in order to prevent their consequences.
Nanozymes towards Personalized Diagnostics: A Recent Progress in Biosensing
Authors: Kurup Chitra Padmakumari , Ahmed Minhaz Uddin
Published: April 2023

This review highlights the recent advancements in the field of nanozymes and their applications in the development of point-of-care biosensors. The use of nanozymes as enzyme-mimicking components in biosensing systems has led to improved performance and miniaturization of these sensors. The unique properties of nanozymes, such as high stability, robustness, and surface tunability, make them an attractive alternative to traditional enzymes in biosensing applications. Researchers have explored a wide range of nanomaterials, including metals, metal oxides, and metal–organic frameworks, for the development of nanozyme-based biosensors. Different sensing strategies, such as colorimetric, fluorescent, electrochemical and SERS, have been implemented using nanozymes as signal-producing components. Despite the numerous advantages, there are also challenges associated with nanozyme-based biosensors, including stability and specificity, which need to be addressed for their wider applications. The future of nanozyme-based biosensors looks promising, with the potential to bring a paradigm shift in biomolecular sensing. The development of highly specific, multi-enzyme mimicking nanozymes could lead to the creation of highly sensitive and low-biofouling biosensors. Integration of nanozymes into point-of-care diagnostics promises to revolutionize healthcare by improving patient outcomes and reducing costs while enhancing the accuracy and sensitivity of diagnostic tools.
Experimental Research on Motion Analysis Model and Trajectory Planning of GLT Palletizing Robot
Authors: Gao Rui , Zhang Wei , Wang Guofu , Wang Xiaohuan
Published: April 2023

To improve wood structure processing efficiency, a palletizing robot suitable for loading and unloading glued laminated timber (GLT) has been developed. The robot comprises a six-axis connecting rod mechanism and a sponge sucker as a grasping actuator, which can enable the intelligent automatic loading and unloading and palletizing operations for small-sized GLT. Matlab robotics was used to construct the kinematic model of the GLT loading and unloading robot. Based on Matlab and Monte Carlo methods, the robot workspace was simulated and analyzed to determine the scope of the robot workspace. Using the high-order quintic and sixtic polynomial curve interpolation method, the trajectory of wood structure parts in the process of loading and unloading operations was planned, respectively, under the two conditions of staying and not staying. Tests verified that the simulation results of the pose of the end-effector were consistent with the actual pose of the robot. The robot’s working range could be analyzed intuitively and effectively. The robot’s operation trajectory planning provides data support and a parameter basis for the automatic control and program design of a loading, unloading and palletizing robot.
Graphene Oxide-Assisted Aptamer-Based Fluorescent Detection of Tetracycline Antibiotics
Authors: Zhou Yang , Liu Juewen
Published: April 2023

Tetracyclines are a group of common antibiotics, but owing to their toxicity, most of them are only used in animal husbandry and veterinary medicine. A DNA aptamer for tetracyclines has recently been reported. Upon aptamer binding, the fluorescence of tetracyclines was enhanced. This unique fluorescence enhancement was used to selectively detect the tetracyclines. The purpose of this study was to use graphene oxide (GO) to suppress the background fluorescence for enhanced detection. First, the adsorption of doxycycline on GO was studied. At pH 8.0, 82.7% of doxycycline was adsorbed by GO, and adding 2 µM aptamer desorbed 55.4% of doxycycline. With GO, the signal increase was comparable from pH 6 to 8, whereas without GO, the increase was significantly lower at pH 8. Under optimized condition, a detection limit of 1.6 nM doxycycline was achieved at pH 8.0 in the presence of GO, whereas without GO, the detection limit was 18.9 nM. This is an interesting example of the use of nanomaterials to enhance the performance of aptamer-based biosensors.
Additional Anomalies in Children with Gastroschisis and Omphalocele: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Pijpers Adinda G. H. , de Beaufort Cunera M. C. , Maat Sanne C. , Broers Chantal J. M. , Straver Bart , van Heurn Ernest , Gorter Ramon R. , Derikx Joep P. M.
Published: April 2023

Background: Congenital abdominal wall defects might be associated with other anomalies, such as atresia in gastroschisis and cardiac anomalies in omphalocele patients. However, in the current literature, an overview of these additional anomalies and potential patient-specific risk factors is missing. Therefore, we aimed to assess the prevalence of associated anomalies and their patient-specific risk factors in patients with gastroschisis and omphalocele. Methods: A mono-center retrospective cohort study between 1997 and 2023 was performed. Outcomes were the presence of any additional anomalies. Risk factors were analyzed via logistic regression analysis. Results: In total, 122 patients were included, of whom 82 (67.2%) had gastroschisis, and 40 (32.8%) had omphalocele. Additional anomalies were identified in 26 gastroschisis patients (31.7%) and in 27 omphalocele patients (67.5%). In patients with gastroschisis, intestinal anomalies were most identified (n = 13, 15.9%), whereas, in patients with omphalocele, cardiac anomalies were most identified (n = 15, 37.5%). Logistic regression showed that cardiac anomalies were associated with complex gastroschisis (OR: 8.5; CI-95%: 1.4–49.5). Conclusions: In patients with gastroschisis and omphalocele, intestinal and cardiac anomalies were most identified, respectively. Cardiac anomalies were found to be a risk factor for patients with complex gastroschisis. Therefore, regardless of the type of gastroschisis and/or omphalocele, postnatal cardiac screening remains important.
High-Performance Pure Aluminum Coatings on Stainless Steels by Cold Spray
Authors: Fan Jialin , Yun Haitao , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Chang Dongxu , Chu Xin , Xie Yingchun , Huang Guosheng
Published: April 2023

Aluminum target material is an important target material and is widely used in preparations of semiconductor films, integrated circuits, display circuits, protective films, decorative films, etc. In this study, pure aluminum coatings were deposited on stainless steel substrates by cold-spray technology as part of an overall project to produce large-size pure aluminum sputtering target materials. The results show that pure aluminum coatings exhibit high adhesive strength (~98 MPa), high deposition efficiency (~95%), and low porosity (~0.3%) on stainless steel substrates. The bonding mechanisms of pure aluminum coatings on stainless steel are a combination of metallurgical and mechanical interlocking. The evolutions of microstructure and mechanical properties of pure aluminum coatings under different heat treatments were also studied. With the increase of heat treatment temperature, it is found that cold-sprayed aluminum coatings become more homogenous in microstructure, the microhardness is reduced, and the adhesive strength seems to be slightly reduced. Overall, this study demonstrates significant advantages of cold-spray technology in depositing high-performance pure aluminum coatings on stainless steels.
Pedagogical Implications and Methodological Possibilities of Digital Transformation in Digital Education after the COVID-19 Epidemic
Authors: Szűts Zoltán , Molnár György , Racsko Réka , Vaughan Geoffrey , Molnár Tünde Lengyelné
Published: April 2023

In the context of digital pedagogy, internet communication platforms, digital media interfaces, applications, and info-communication tools, best practices are stepping up in the educational process and forming a methodology. The focus areas targeted by the questionnaire presented in this study are digital transformation; the smart use of digital tools; characteristics of the learning environment; classroom activities, learning organization, and methodology; content; and curriculum sharing. During the research, the authors asked what were the online communication channels and digital platforms that teachers have effectively used in terms of learning efficiency in distance learning ordered as a result of the COVID-19 emergency in Hungary. The empirical research goal was to explore the conditions among Hungarian teachers with the help of a questionnaire and a semi-structured online interview. Seven thousand teachers were contacted through email, and a return rate of 10.7% was achieved. The questionnaire was filled in online by n = 751 primary teachers. According to the respondents, the most effective tools in the transformation of education are self-made tutorial videos and real-time written and video-based chat.
22 Years of Aquatic Plant Spatiotemporal Dynamics in the Upper Mississippi River
Authors: Carhart Alicia M. , Rohweder Jason J. , Larson Danelle M.
Published: April 2023

Macrophyte (aquatic plant) recovery has occurred in rivers worldwide, but assemblage patterns and habitat requirements are generally not well understood. We examined patterns of species composition and macrophyte abundance in the Upper Mississippi River (UMR), spanning 22 years of monitoring and a period of vegetation recovery. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination revealed a gradient of macrophyte abundance and diversity for 25 species, which were associated with water velocity, depth, wind fetch, and water clarity. Three macrophyte genera of ecological and restoration interest (Zizania aquatica, Vallisneria americana, and Sagittaria spp.) occupied different ecological niches. Trends of NMDS values showed that Z. aquatica first co-occurred in shallow areas with Sagittaria spp. but then expanded into deeper, lotic habitats where V. americana often resided. Curve Fit regression analysis identified large areas of significant increases in the relative abundance of V. americana and percent cover of Z. aquatica in several reaches of the UMR from 1998–2019. Sagittaria spp. were more spatiotemporally dynamic, which may indicate specific habitat requirements and sensitivity to environmental gradients. Our analyses showed that these three ecologically important genera are spatiotemporally dynamic but have somewhat predictable habitat associations, which can guide macrophyte management and restoration in the UMR and other large, floodplain rivers.
Chronic Complete Distal Aortic Occlusion and Pulmonary Embolism—Atypical Antiphospholipid Syndrome?
Authors: Caraiola Simona , Voicu Laura , Cașu Dragoș , Armășoiu Elena , Cobilinschi Claudia Oana , Mihai Emilian , Ionescu Răzvan Adrian
Published: April 2023

Complete aortic occlusion is a rare pathology with various possible etiologies. According to current data, it is most frequently caused by atherosclerosis. However, thrombosis or vasculitis could also be involved. We present the case of a 42-year-old female with chronic complete distal aortic occlusion, associated pulmonary embolism and positive antiphospholipid antibodies. The patient had an obstetric history suggestive of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). She presented with typical intermittent claudication symptoms persisting for approximately five years at the time of admission. Arteriography revealed complete infrarenal aortic occlusion and the presence of collateral arteries. Aortoiliac bypass surgery was performed. This case emphasizes an unusual, yet possible, etiology of chronic aortic occlusion—most probably, combining atherosclerosis and chronic thrombosis—in a relatively young patient, in which the diagnosis was significantly delayed due to the peculiar association of traits.
Non-Operative Management of Polytraumatized Patients: Body Imaging beyond CT
Authors: Iacobellis Francesca , Di Serafino Marco , Caruso Martina , Dell’Aversano Orabona Giuseppina , Rinaldo Chiara , Grimaldi Dario , Verde Francesco , Sabatino Vittorio , Schillirò Maria Laura , Giacobbe Giuliana , Ponticiello Gianluca , Scaglione Mariano , Romano Luigia
Published: April 2023

In the transition from the operative to the conservative approach for the polytraumatized patients who undergo blunt trauma, diagnostic imaging has assumed a pivotal role, currently offering various opportunities, particularly in the follow-up of these patients. The choice of the most suitable imaging method in this setting mainly depends on the injury complications we are looking for, the patient conditions (mobilization, cooperation, medications, allergies and age), the biological invasiveness, and the availability of each imaging method. Computed Tomography (CT) represents the “standard” imaging technique in the polytraumatized patient due to the high diagnostic performance when a correct imaging protocol is adopted, despite suffering from invasiveness due to radiation dose and intravenous contrast agent administration. Ultrasound (US) is a readily available technology, cheap, bedside performable and integrable with intravenous contrast agent (Contrast enhanced US—CEUS) to enhance the diagnostic performance, but it may suffer particularly from limited panoramicity and operator dependance. Magnetic Resonance (MR), until now, has been adopted in specific contexts, such as biliopancreatic injuries, but in recent experiences, it showed a great potential in the follow-up of polytraumatized patients; however, its availability may be limited in some context, and there are specific contraindications, such as as claustrophobia and the presence non-MR compatible devices. In this article, the role of each imaging method in the body-imaging follow-up of adult polytraumatized patients will be reviewed, enhancing the value of integrated imaging, as shown in several cases from our experience.
Freshwater Shortage, Salinity Increase, and Global Food Production: A Need for Sustainable Irrigation Water Desalination—A Scoping Review
Authors: Khondoker Marufa , Mandal Sujata , Gurav Ranjit , Hwang Sangchul
Published: April 2023

Climate-change-induced freshwater shortage and saline intrusion have been posing significant risks to agricultural sectors in arid and semi-arid regions, negatively impacting irrigation, crop yield, and food production. Climate-smart sustainable solutions are the requirement to combat these major concerns. To overcome freshwater scarcity, pressure-driven desalination techniques are used that require advanced operational systems and electricity, which creates an additional economic burden when applied in the agriculture sector. Therefore, more sustainable methods for soil and water desalination using plant-, microbial-, algal-, biomass-, and carbon-based systems are needed. This scoping review addresses the effects of climate change on freshwater shortage and global food production, the influence of salinity and sodicity on agriculture, and sustainable desalination technologies.
Integrated Geospatial and Geophysical Approaches for Mapping Groundwater Potential in the Semi-Arid Bukombe District, Tanzania
Authors: Kubingwa Juma N. , Makoba Edikafubeni E. , Mussa Kassim Ramadhani
Published: April 2023

The rapid growth of civil societies coupled with population influx due to the artisanal mining industry in the Bukombe district (BD) has triggered a high demand for water resources. The daily consumption of water resources in the district surpasses the supply from available surface water sources. Thus, the situation has raised the demand for groundwater resources as an alternative. Despite the importance of groundwater resources, no current studies have spatially assessed groundwater potential to locate optimal points for borehole development. This study intended to investigate and map the groundwater potential areas (GWPAs) in the semi-arid BD using remote sensing (RS), the geographic information system (GIS), and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to help local communities access clean and safe water. Rainfall, geology, slope, drainage density, land use/land cover and lineament density were prepared to delineate the map of GWPAs. The map was categorized into poor (0.21%), moderate good (51.39%), good (45.70%) and very good (2.70%). Finally, the GWPA map was validated using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), 2-D sections and a drilled borehole. The validation results confirmed that the applied approach provides significant results that can help in planning the sustainable utilization of groundwater resources.
Quantum and Optoelectronic Devices, Circuits and Systems
Authors: Lamata Lucas
Published: April 2023

The fields of quantum electronics (e [...]
Digitalisation and Economic Growth in the European Union
Authors: Mura Petru Ovidiu , Donath Liliana Eva
Published: April 2023

The aim of the present paper is to analyse the effects of digitalisation on economic growth in the European Union. An econometric model with balanced panel data is used, with the analysis spanning over a 22-year time frame from 2000 to 2021. The main conclusion is that digitalisation generates a positive and significant impact on economic growth, even when several control variables are taken into consideration. The results prove their robustness, which is backed by the employment of the DESI as an independent variable. This paper contributes to the existing empirical analyses by extending the research on digitalisation to the entire EU, and separately for the old EU-15 member states and EU-13 new member states since, to our best knowledge, the existing literature has not approached the subject in this manner. As a policy recommendation, we suggest that public decision-makers take measures that support more harmonised digitalisation policies, favouring the new business model based on digitalisation.