bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sugarcane Straw as a Source of Arabinoxylans: Optimization and Economic Viability of a Two-Step Alkaline Extraction
Authors: Costa Joana R. , Pereira Maria J. , Pedrosa Sílvia S. , Gullón Beatriz , de Carvalho Nelson M. , Pintado Manuela E. , Madureira Ana Raquel
Published: June 2023

Sugarcane processing produces a significant amount of byproducts in the form of straw and bagasse, which are rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. This work aims to provide a valorization approach to sugarcane straw by optimizing a two-step alkaline extraction of arabinoxylans by a response surface methodology to evaluate a potential industrial-scale production. Sugarcane straws were delignified using an alkaline–sulfite pretreatment, followed by alkaline extraction and precipitation of arabinoxylan, a two-step process optimized using a response surface methodology. A KOH concentration of (2.93–17.1%) and temperature (18.8–61.2 °C) were chosen as independent variables, and the arabinoxylan yield (%) as a response variable. The model application shows that KOH concentration, temperature, and the interaction between both independent variables are significant in extracting arabinoxylans from straw. The best-performing condition was further characterized by FTIR, DSC, and chemical and molecular weight evaluation. The straws arabinoxylans presented high purities levels, ca. 69.93%, and an average molecular weight of 231 kDa. The overall estimated production cost of arabinoxylan from straw was 0.239 €/g arabinoxylan. This work demonstrates a two-step alkaline extraction of the arabinoxylans method, as well as their chemical characterization and economic viability analysis, that can be used as a model for industrial scale-up production.
Drying Process of HPMC-Based Hard Capsules: Visual Experiment and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: He Chuqi , Yang Yucheng , Zhang Mi , Zhou Kecheng , Huang Yayan , Zhang Na , Ye Jing , Arowo Moses , Zheng Bingde , Zhang Xueqin , Xu Honghui , Xiao Meitian
Published: June 2023

Using plant-based polysaccharide gels to produce hard capsules is a novel application of this technology in the medicinal field, which has garnered significant attention. However, the current manufacturing technology, particularly the drying process, limits its industrialization. The work herein employed an advanced measuring technique and a modified mathematical model to get more insight into the drying process of the capsule. Low field magnetic resonance imaging (LF-MRI) technique is adopted to reveal the distribution of moisture content in the capsule during drying. Furthermore, a modified mathematical model is developed by considering the dynamic variation of the effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) according to Fick’s second law, which enables accurate prediction of the moisture content of the capsule with a prediction accuracy of ±15%. The predicted Deff ranges from 3 × 10−10 to 7 × 10−10 m2·s−1, which has an irregular variation with a time extension. Moreover, as temperature increases or relative humidity decreases, there is an increased acceleration of moisture diffusion. The work provides a fundamental understanding of the drying process of the plant-based polysaccharide gel, which is crucial for enhancing the industrial preparation of the HPMC-based hard capsules.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Freshwater Fish Onychostoma ovale (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae): Genome Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Zhang Renyi , Zhu Tingting , Luo Qi
Published: June 2023

In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Onychostoma ovale. The mitogenome of O. ovale was 16,602 bp in length with 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and a control region. The nucleotide composition of the O. ovale mitogenome was 31.47% A, 24.07% T, 15.92% G, and 28.54% C, with a higher A + T content (55.54%) than G + C content (44.46%). All PCGs began with the standard ATG codon, except for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene and the NADH dehydrogenase 3 (ND3) gene with GTG, while six PCGs ended with incomplete termination codons (TA or T). The Ka/Ks ratios of 13 PCGs were all less than one, indicating that they were under purifying selection. All tRNA genes were folded into the typical cloverleaf secondary structures with the exception of tRNASer(AGY), whose dihydrouridine (DHU) arm was absent. The phylogenetic trees showed that Onychostoma and Acrossocheilus were classified into three clades. There was a mosaic relationship between Onychostoma and Acrossocheilus. Moreover, the phylogenetic tree analysis showed that O. rarum was the closest species to O. ovale. This study can provide a useful resource for further phylogeny and population genetic analyses of Onychostoma and Acrossocheilus.
Assessing Therapeutic Choices and Adherence to Antidiabetic Therapy in Naïve Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study in a Local Health Authority of the Piedmont Region (Italy)
Authors: Armando Lucrezia Greta , Miglio Gianluca , Baroetto Parisi Raffaella , Esiliato Mariangela , Rolando Cristina , Vinciguerra Valeria , Diarassouba Abdoulaye , Cena Clara
Published: June 2023

Due to its prevalence and socio-economic burden on health systems, diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered a major health emergency. This retrospective, observational study aimed to describe a population of DM-naïve patients of the Local Health Authority (LHA) ASL TO4 Regione Piemonte and the prescriptive behavior of LHA general practitioners. Drug dispensing data collected between January 2018 and December 2021 was analyzed. Adult patients were included if they received their first prescription for an antidiabetic drug (AD) in 2019 and had ≥2 prescriptions/year of ADs during the follow-up. Patients who started antidiabetic therapy with metformin were selected to investigate comorbidities, medication adherence, and first treatment intensification. Comorbidities were identified through a modified version of the Rx-Risk Index; adherence was measured as the continuous measure of medication availability (CMA). Among 1927 DM-naïve patients, 1361 started therapy with metformin. Most of them received drugs related to cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and infectious diseases during the study period. Median CMA was 58.8%, with the majority of patients being partially adherent to ADs (40 ≤ CMA < 80). Initial antidiabetic therapy was mostly modified (switch, add-on) with SGLT-2 inhibitors and sulfonylureas. These findings help to identify areas of intervention to improve the use of ADs in the LHA.
Healthcare Service Efficiency: An Empirical Study on Healthcare Capacity in Various Counties and Cities in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Jih-Shong
Published: June 2023

As human lifespan increases and the need for elderly care grows, the demand for healthcare services and its associated costs have surged, causing a decline in the operational efficiency of universal healthcare. This has created an imbalance in medical services across different regions, posing a long-standing challenge for the public. To address this issue, strategies to enhance the capacity, efficiency, and quality of healthcare services in various regions must be developed. The appropriate allocation of medical resources is a fundamental requirement for countries to establish a robust healthcare system. This empirical study utilized data envelopment analysis (DEA) to evaluate the efficiency of medical service capacity and identify potential improvement strategies for counties and cities in Taiwan during the period from 2015 to 2020. The results of this study show that (1) the annual average efficiency of medical service capacity in Taiwan is approximately 90%, indicating that there is still room for a 10% improvement; (2) among the six municipalities, only Taipei City has sufficient healthcare capacity, whereas the efficiency of the remaining municipalities needs improvement; and (3) most counties and cities demonstrated increasing returns to scale, indicating a need to scale up the capacity of medical services as appropriate. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that medical personnel be increased accordingly to balance the workload, a favorable working environment be provided to stabilize the medical workforce, and urban–rural medical disparities be balanced to improve service quality and reduce cross-regional health services. These recommendations are expected to provide a reference for society as a whole to promote and enhance public health policies, leading to a continual improvement of the quality of medical services.
The Effect of Sexual Intercourse during Pregnancy on Preterm Birth: Prospective Single-Center Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Yo Yoshie , Kawasaki Kaoru , Moriuchi Kaori , Shiro Reona , Shimaoka Masao , Matsumura Noriomi
Published: June 2023

Several studies in Europe and the United States have shown that sexual intercourse (SI) during pregnancy is not associated with preterm birth. However, it is unclear whether these findings apply to pregnant Japanese women. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to elucidate the influence of SI during pregnancy on preterm birth in Japan. A total of 182 women who underwent antenatal care and delivery were included in this study. The frequency of SI was assessed using a questionnaire, and its association with preterm birth was analyzed. The results showed that SI during pregnancy was associated with a significantly higher cumulative preterm birth rate (p = 0.018), which was more pronounced for SI more than once a week (p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that SI, bacterial vaginosis in the second trimester, previous preterm birth, and smoking during pregnancy were independent risk factors for preterm birth. The combination of SI and second trimester bacterial vaginosis was associated with a 60% preterm birth rate, whereas either factor alone was associated with a lower rate, suggesting a synergistic effect (p < 0.0001). Future studies are needed to investigate the effect of prohibiting SI in pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis on preterm birth.
Helicobacter pylori Infection and Peptic Ulcer Disease in Symptomatic Children in Southern Vietnam: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Nguyen Tu Cam , Tang Ngoc Le Chau , Le Giao Kim Ngoc , Nguyen Vy Thuy , Nguyen Khuong Hoang Gia , Che Thai Hoang , Phan Van Thi Tuong , Nguyen Ngoc Minh , Truong Dinh Quang , Ngo Xuan Minh , Nguyen Hiep Thanh , Robert Annie , Bontems Patrick , Nguyen Phuong Ngoc Van
Published: June 2023

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) remains a major cause of gastroduodenal diseases. We aimed to evaluate the burden of this infection, particularly peptic ulcer disease in Vietnamese children. Methods: We enrolled consecutive children referred for esophagogastroduodenoscopy at two tertiary children’s hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City, from October 2019 to May 2021. Children treated with proton pump inhibitors during the last two weeks or antibiotics for four weeks, and those having a previous or interventional endoscopy were excluded. H. pylori infection was diagnosed with either a positive culture or positive histopathology combined with a rapid urease test, or with a polymerase chain reaction of the urease gene. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee and written informed consent/assent was obtained. Results: Among 336 enrolled children aged 4–16 (mean: 9.1 ± 2.4 years; 55.4% girls), H. pylori infection was positive in 80%. Peptic ulcers were detected in 65 (19%), increasing with age, and 25% with anemia. cagA+ strains were detected at a higher rate in children with ulcers. Conclusions: Prevalence of H. pylori and peptic ulcers is high among symptomatic Vietnamese children. It is crucial to have a program for early detection of H. pylori to reduce ulcer risk and gastric cancer later.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Care for Irregular Migrant Women: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Data
Authors: Granero-Molina José , Gómez-Vinuesa Ariadna Sara , Granero-Heredia Gonzalo , Fernández-Férez Alba , Ruiz-Fernández María Dolores , Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar
Published: June 2023

Migratory movements are a political, social, and public health issue on a global scale. Access to sexual and reproductive health services for irregular migrant women (IMW) is a public health issue. The aim of this study is to identify qualitative evidence of IMW’s experiences of sexual and reproductive health care in emergency and primary care settings. The methods employed involve conducting a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Synthesis includes assembling and categorising findings based on similarity in meaning. The search was conducted between January 2010 and June 2022 using PubMed, WOS, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and SCIELO databases. Out of the initial pool of 142 articles identified, only 9 fulfilled the predetermined criteria and were subsequently included in the review. Four main themes were established: (1) the need to focus emergency care on sexual and reproductive health; (2) unsatisfactory clinical experiences; (3) forced reproduction; and (4) alternating between formal and informal healthcare services. The attitudes of IMW towards sexual and reproductive health are influenced by culture, educational level, fear, barriers, and the attitude of healthcare providers. Healthcare institutions need to be aware of the IMW’s experiences to understand the specific difficulties they face. IMW calls for socially and culturally sensitive health care, cultural mediators, improved communication, and safe environments that ensure confidentiality.
Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Physical Symptoms Post-COVID-19 Condition: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study
Authors: AlRasheed Maha M. , Al-Aqeel Sinaa , Aboheimed Ghada I. , AlRasheed Noura M. , Abanmy Norah Othman , Alhamid Ghadeer Abdulaziz , Alnemari Hadeel Mohammed , Alkhowaiter Saad , Alharbi Abdullah Rashed , Khurshid Fowad , Trabelsi Khaled , Jahrami Haitham A. , BaHammam Ahmed S.
Published: June 2023

The magnitude of post-COVID-19 syndrome was not thoroughly investigated. This study evaluated the quality of life and persistence of fatigue and physical symptoms of individuals post-COVID-19 compared with noninfected controls. The study included 965 participants; 400 had previous COVID-19 disease and 565 controls without COVID-19. The questionnaire collected data on comorbidities, COVID-19 vaccination, general health questions, and physical symptoms, in addition to validated measures of quality of life (SF-36 scale), fatigue (fatigue severity scale, FSS), and dyspnea grade. COVID-19 participants complained more frequently of weakness, muscle pain, respiratory symptoms, voice disorders, imbalance, taste and smell loss, and menstrual problems compared to the controls. Joint symptoms, tingling, numbness, hypo/hypertension, sexual dysfunction, headache, bowel, urinary, cardiac, and visual symptoms did not differ between groups. Dyspnea grade II–IV did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.116). COVID-19 patients scored lower on the SF-36 domains of role physical (p = 0.045), vitality (p < 0.001), reported health changes (p < 0.001), and mental-components summary (p = 0.014). FSS scores were significantly higher in COVID-19 participants (3 (1.8–4.3) vs. 2.6 (1.4–4); p < 0.001). COVID-19 effects could persist beyond the acute infection phase. These effects include changes in quality of life, fatigue, and persistence of physical symptoms.
The Influence of Urban Gardening Activities on Participants’ Perceived Restorativeness, Resilience, Sense of Community and Stress
Authors: Kim Hee-Ran , Oh Won-Suk , Kim Jin-Gun , Shin Won-Sop
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the influence of urban garden activities on participants’ perceived restorativeness, resilience, sense of community, and stress reduction. A total of ninety individuals who agreed to participate in the experiment were divided into experimental and control groups. To collect data, 16 sessions of urban garden activities were conducted every two weeks from May to November 2022. Perceived Restorativeness Scale, Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Sense of Community Index, and Brief Encounter Psychosocial Instrument were employed to measure participants’ psychological effects. To evaluate physiological effects, salivary cortisol tests were performed. The results of the study revealed that urban gardening activities influenced on participants’ physiological and psychological reactions in positive ways.
Metal Micronutrient and Silicon Concentration Effects on Growth and Susceptibility to Pythium Root Rot for Hydroponic Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Helms Kalyn M. , Dickson Ryan W. , Bertucci Matthew B. , Rojas Alejandro A. , Gibson Kristen E.
Published: June 2023

The objectives were to evaluate the effects of increasing metal micronutrient concentrations and silicon (Si) concentrations on plant growth and susceptibility to Pythium root rot with hydroponically grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa). In the first experiment, lettuce was grown in hydroponic solutions with metal micronutrients iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) supplied at either 0, 2.5, 5, or 10 mg∙L−1. A standard commercial hydroponic solution was also included as a control, with metal micronutrients supplied at 2 Fe, 1 Mn, 0.5 Cu, and 0.5 Zn mg∙L−1. In the second experiment, hydroponic lettuce was grown with Si at 0, 7, 14, 28, and 56 mg∙L−1. Hydroponic treatment solutions for both experiments were either dosed with Pythium myriotylum (Pythium treatment) at 1.80 × 104 oospores per L or deionized water as a non-Pythium control. Data were collected on leaf SPAD chlorophyll content, shoot height and width, total plant fresh mass, and root disease severity. Increasing the Cu concentration in solution decreased Pythium disease severity but reduced lettuce growth and yield. Increasing the concentration of the other metal micronutrients also tended to reduce lettuce growth but had no significant influence on root disease. Supplementing the hydroponic solution with Si had no effect on Pythium root disease severity and slightly decreased lettuce growth at 56 mg∙L−1 Si. Results of this study suggest that the management of micronutrients and Si nutrition is not an effective strategy and, at best, a risky strategy for controlling Pythium in hydroponic lettuce. Growers would likely benefit from maintaining metal micronutrient and Si concentrations within the ranges of (in mg∙L−1) 0.5 to 5.5 for Fe, 0.1 to 2.0 for Mn, 0.1 to 0.6 for Cu, 0.1 to 0.6 for Zn, and 0 to 28 for Si for many hydroponic crops. Supplementing Si has the potential to negatively influence plant growth and quality for certain plant species, and testing is necessary to evaluate phytotoxicity risks prior to implementing in commercial practice. Overall, successful mitigation of root rot pathogens in commercial hydroponic production requires the combination of proper sanitation, best management and cultural practices, appropriate hydroponic system design, and the implementation of a water treatment system with proper design and a multi-barrier approach.
In Vitro Long-Term Cultures of Papaya (Carica papaya L. cv. Solo)
Authors: Encina Carlos López , Granero Manuel Lopez , Regalado José Javier
Published: June 2023

In this article, we present proliferation data from 10 years of the continuous in vitro incubation of cv. Solo papaya shoots and propose a reliable method for the long-term micropropagation of papaya, using microshoots developed from the axillary buds of papaya shoots as primary explants. Three different media were assayed. The proliferation medium (PPRM) allowed us to maintain papaya shoots under continuous proliferation for 20 years, maintaining consistent behavior. Most of the shoots developed in the PPRM rooted during the incubation and then acclimated easily, maintaining the ploidy and morphological characteristics of the parental plants, and flowering and setting fruits normally. The PPRM medium consisted of MS medium supplemented with naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) (0.1 mg L−1), benzyladenine (BA) (0.5 mg L−1), gibberellic acid (GA3) (0.5 mg L−1), and adenine hemisulphate (40 mg L−1). The average multiplication rate was higher than 20 shoots per explant during the long-term assay. The elongation medium (PELM) was designed to recover shoots with poor growth and allowed the development of high-quality shoots ready for rooting. It consisted of an MS basal medium supplemented with NAA (0.1 mg L−1), kinetin (KIN) (0.5 mg L−1), and GA3 (1 mg L−1). The rooting medium (PROM) was designed to induce high-quality roots from nonrooted shoots and consisted of a half-strength MS medium and indole-3-butiryc acid (IBA) (1 mg L−1). On PROM, agar can be exchanged for expanded vermiculite. Acclimation took place inside an acclimatization tunnel under progressive hydric stress. After 4 weeks, the plant recovery rate was 90% for plants maintained under continuous proliferation for ten years. The main objective of this work was to provide a micropropagation method which would maintain healthy elite genotypes of papaya for long periods of time and produce a high number of good quality plants.
Effects of Transitional Care after Hospital Discharge in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Park Yukyung , Kim Jiwon , Kim Sukyoung , Moon Dahae , Jo Heuisug
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to systematically review the effects of transitional care programs on healthcare use and quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Several databases were searched for randomized controlled trials conducted over the past five years, and their quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. For indicators with available statistical information, a meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4, and a narrative review was performed for the rest of the results. In the meta-analysis, no statistically significant difference was observed between the intervention and control groups in the number of readmissions and emergency room visits due to COPD. The relative risk (RR) of readmission for COPD was lower in the intervention group. Respiratory-related quality of life tended to be better in the intervention group, though not significantly. Physical capacity was improved in the intervention group. Considering the characteristics of the complex intervention, the context and factors of cases where the expected results could be obtained and cases where the expected results could not be obtained were reviewed and discussed. Based on the results of the analysis, implications for the development of better protocols were presented.
Automatic Generation of 3D Indoor Navigation Networks from Building Information Modeling Data Using Image Thinning
Authors: Zhang Weisong , Wang Yukang , Zhou Xiaoping
Published: June 2023

Navigation networks are a common form of indoor map that provide the basis for a wide range of indoor location-based services, intelligent tasks for indoor robots, and three-dimensional (3D) geographic information systems. The majority of current indoor navigation networks are manually modeled, resulting in a laborious and fallible process. Building Information Modeling (BIM) captures design information, allowing for the automated generation of indoor maps. Most existing BIM-based navigation systems for floor-level wayfinding rely on well-defined spatial semantics, and do not adapt well to buildings with irregular 3D shapes, which can make cross-floor path generation difficult. This research introduces an innovative approach to generating 3D indoor navigation networks automatically from BIM data using image thinning, which is referred to as GINIT. Firstly, GINIT extracts grid-based maps for floors from BIM data using only two types of semantics, i.e., slabs and doors. Secondly, GINIT captures cross-floor paths from building components by projecting 3D forms onto a 2D image, thinning the 2D image to capture the 2D projection path, and crossing over the 2D routes with 3D routes to restore the 3D path. Finally, to demonstrate the effectiveness of GINIT, experiments were conducted on three real-world multi-floor buildings, evaluating its performance across eight types of cross-layer architectural component. GINIT overcomes the dependency of space definitions in current BIM-based navigation network generation schemes by introducing image thinning. Due to the adaptability of navigation image thinning to any binary image, GINIT is capable of generating navigation networks from building components with diverse 3D shapes. Moreover, the current studies on indoor navigation network extraction mainly use geometry theory, while this study is the first to generate 3D indoor navigation networks automatically using image thinning theory. The results of this study will offer a unique perspective and foster the exploration of imaging theory applications of BIM.
A dePEGylated Lipopeptide-Based Pan-Coronavirus Fusion Inhibitor Exhibits Potent and Broad-Spectrum Anti-HIV-1 Activity without Eliciting Anti-PEG Antibodies
Authors: Xu Ling , Wang Chao , Xu Wei , Xing Lixiao , Zhou Jie , Pu Jing , Fu Mingming , Lu Lu , Jiang Shibo , Wang Qian
Published: June 2023

We previously identified a lipopeptide, EK1C4, by linking cholesterol to EK1, a pan-CoV fusion inhibitory peptide via a polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker, which showed potent pan-CoV fusion inhibitory activity. However, PEG can elicit antibodies to PEG in vivo, which will attenuate its antiviral activity. Therefore, we designed and synthesized a dePEGylated lipopeptide, EKL1C, by replacing the PEG linker in EK1C4 with a short peptide. Similar to EK1C4, EKL1C displayed potent inhibitory activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other coronaviruses. In this study, we found that EKL1C also exhibited broad-spectrum fusion inhibitory activity against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection by interacting with the N-terminal heptad repeat 1 (HR1) of viral gp41 to block six-helix bundle (6-HB) formation. These results suggest that HR1 is a common target for the development of broad-spectrum viral fusion inhibitors and EKL1C has potential clinical application as a candidate therapeutic or preventive agent against infection by coronavirus, HIV-1, and possibly other class I enveloped viruses.
Expression of Cell-Adhesion Molecules in E. coli: A High Throughput Screening to Identify Paracellular Modulators
Authors: Rollins Jay , Worthington Tyler , Dransfield Allison , Whitney Jordan , Stanford Jordan , Hooke Emily , Hobson Joseph , Wengler Jacob , Hope Sandra , Mizrachi Dario
Published: June 2023

Cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs) are responsible for cell–cell, cell–extracellular matrix, and cell–pathogen interactions. Claudins (CLDNs), occludin (OCLN), and junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs) are CAMs’ components of the tight junction (TJ), the single protein structure tasked with safeguarding the paracellular space. The TJ is responsible for controlling paracellular permeability according to size and charge. Currently, there are no therapeutic solutions to modulate the TJ. Here, we describe the expression of CLDN proteins in the outer membrane of E. coli and report its consequences. When the expression is induced, the unicellular behavior of E. coli is replaced with multicellular aggregations that can be quantified using Flow Cytometry (FC). Our method, called iCLASP (inspection of cell-adhesion molecules aggregation through FC protocols), allows high-throughput screening (HTS) of small-molecules for interactions with CAMs. Here, we focused on using iCLASP to identify paracellular modulators for CLDN2. Furthermore, we validated those compounds in the mammalian cell line A549 as a proof-of-concept for the iCLASP method.
LC/MS-Based Untargeted Metabolomics Study in Women with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Associated with Morbid Obesity
Authors: Bertran Laia , Capellades Jordi , Abelló Sonia , Durán-Bertran Joan , Aguilar Carmen , Martinez Salomé , Sabench Fàtima , Correig Xavier , Yanes Oscar , Auguet Teresa , Richart Cristóbal
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the importance of a metabolomic analysis in a complex disease such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) associated with obesity. Using an untargeted metabolomics technique, we studied blood metabolites in 216 morbidly obese women with liver histological diagnosis. A total of 172 patients were diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and 44 were diagnosed with normal liver (NL). Patients with NAFLD were classified into simple steatosis (n = 66) and NASH (n = 106) categories. A comparative analysis of metabolites levels between NASH and NL demonstrated significant differences in lipid metabolites and derivatives, mainly from the phospholipid group. In NASH, there were increased levels of several phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylethanolamines, as well as isolated metabolites such as diacylglycerol 34:1, lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine 20:3 and sphingomyelin 38:1. By contrast, there were decreased levels of acylcarnitines, sphingomyelins and linoleic acid. These findings may facilitate identification studies of the main pathogenic metabolic pathways related to NASH and may also have a possible applicability in a panel of metabolites to be used as biomarkers in future algorithms of the disease diagnosis and its follow-up. Further confirmatory studies in groups with different ages and sexes are necessary.
A Silent Threat: Exploring the Impact of Endocrine Disruption on Human Health
Authors: Leung Yuet-Kin
Published: June 2023

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are chemicals, either natural or synthetic, that can interfere with the production, distribution, function, metabolism, or excretion of hormones in our body [...]
Photocatalytic H2 Production by Visible Light on Cd0.5Zn0.5S Photocatalysts Modified with Ni(OH)2 by Impregnation Method
Authors: Páll Bence , Mersel Maali-Amel , Pekker Péter , Makó Éva , Vágvölgyi Veronika , Németh Miklós , Pap József Sándor , Fodor Lajos , Horváth Ottó
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the study of environmentally friendly ways of producing hydrogen as a green energy source is an increasingly important challenge. One of these potential processes is the heterogeneous photocatalytic splitting of water or other hydrogen sources such as H2S or its alkaline solution. The most common catalysts used for H2 production from Na2S solution are the CdS-ZnS type catalysts, whose efficiency can be further enhanced by Ni-modification. In this work, the surface of Cd0.5Zn0.5S composite was modified with Ni(II) compound for photocatalytic H2 generation. Besides two conventional methods, impregnation was also applied, which is a simple but unconventional modification technique for the CdS-type catalysts. Among the catalysts modified with 1% Ni(II), the impregnation method resulted in the highest activity, for which a quantum efficiency of 15.8% was achieved by using a 415 nm LED and Na2S-Na2SO3 sacrificial solution. This corresponded to an outstanding rate of 170 mmol H2/h/g under the given experimental conditions. The catalysts were characterized by DRS, XRD, TEM, STEM-EDS, and XPS analyses, which confirmed that Ni(II) is mainly present as Ni(OH)2 on the surface of the CdS-ZnS composite. The observations from the illumination experiments indicated that Ni(OH)2 was oxidized during the reaction, and that it therefore played a hole-trapping role.
Agile Software Requirements Engineering Challenges-Solutions—A Conceptual Framework from Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Hoy Zoe , Xu Mark
Published: June 2023

Agile software requirements engineering processes enable quick responses to reflect changes in the client’s software requirements. However, there are challenges associated with agile requirements engineering processes, which hinder fast, sustainable software development. Research addressing the challenges with available solutions is patchy, diverse and inclusive. In this study, we use a systematic literature review coupled with thematic classification and gap mapping analysis to examine extant solutions against challenges; the typologies/classifications of challenges faced with agile software development in general and specifically in requirements engineering and how the solutions address the challenges. Our study covers the period from 2009 to 2023. Scopus—the largest database for credible academic publications was searched. Using the exclusion criteria to filter the articles, a total of 78 valid papers were selected and reviewed. Following our investigation, we develop a framework that takes a three-dimensional view of agile requirements engineering solutions and suggest an orchestrated approach balancing the focus between the business context, project management and agile techniques. This study contributes to the theoretical frontier of agile software requirement engineering approaches and guidelines for practice.
Deep Learning-Based Image Classification for Major Mosquito Species Inhabiting Korea
Authors: Lee Sangjun , Kim Hangi , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: June 2023

Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest insects, causing harm to humans worldwide. Preemptive prevention and forecasting are important to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. However, current mosquito identification is mostly conducted manually, which consumes time, wastes labor, and causes human error. In this study, we developed an automatic image analysis method to identify mosquito species using a deep learning-based object detection technique. Color and fluorescence images of live mosquitoes were acquired using a mosquito capture device and were used to develop a deep learning-based object detection model. Among the deep learning-based object identification models, the combination of a swine transformer and a faster region-convolutional neural network model demonstrated the best performance, with a 91.7% F1-score. This indicates that the proposed automatic identification method can be rapidly applied for efficient analysis of species and populations of vector-borne mosquitoes with reduced labor in the field.
Where Eriophyoidea (Acariformes) Belong in the Tree of Life
Authors: Bolton Samuel J. , Chetverikov Philipp E. , Ochoa Ronald , Klimov Pavel B.
Published: June 2023

Over the past century and a half, the taxonomic placement of Eriophyoidea has been in flux. For much of this period, this group has been treated as a subtaxon within Trombidiformes. However, the vast majority of recent phylogenetic analyses, including almost all phylogenomic analyses, place this group outside Trombidiformes. The few studies that still place Eriophyoidea within Trombidiformes are likely to be biased by incomplete taxon/gene sampling, long branch attraction, the omission of RNA secondary structure in sequence alignment, and the inclusion of hypervariable expansion–contraction rRNA regions. Based on the agreement among a number of independent analyses that use a range of different datasets (morphology; multiple genes; mitochondrial/whole genomes), Eriophyoidea are almost certain to be closely related to Nematalycidae, a family of vermiform mites within Endeostigmata, a basal acariform grade. Much of the morphological evidence in support of this relationship was apparent after the discovery of Nematalycidae in the middle of the 20th century. However, this evidence has largely been disregarded until very recently, perhaps because of overconfidence in the placement of Eriophyoidea within Trombidiformes. Here, we briefly review and identify a number of biases, both molecular- and morphology-based, that can lead to erroneous reconstructions of the position of Eriophyoidea in the tree of life.
Intraoperative Hemodynamics of Parasylvian Cortical Arteries for Predicting Postoperative Symptomatic Cerebral Hyperperfusion after Direct Revascularization in Patients with Moyamoya Disease: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Shi Zhiyong , Wu Lingyun , Wang Yi , Li Wei , Wang Juan , Yang Yongbo , Hang Chunhua
Published: June 2023

Objective. The search for methods by which to predict the risks of cerebral hyperperfusion syn-drome (CHS) in adults with moyamoya disease (MMD), including those utilizing new biomarkers, still deserves further research. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between the hemodynamics of parasylvian cortical arteries (PSCAs) and postoperative CHS. Methods. A consecutive number of adults with MMD who had undergone direct bypass between September 2020 and December 2022 were recruited. Intraoperative microvascular doppler ultrasonography (MDU) was performed to evaluate the hemodynamics of PSCAs. The intraoperative flow direction, mean value of velocity (MVV) of recipient artery (RA) and bypass graft were recorded. According to flow direction after bypass, RA was divided into entering sylvian (RA.ES) and leaving sylvian (RA.LS) subtypes. Univariate, multivariate, and ROC analyses of the risk factors for postoperative CHS were performed. Results. A total of 16 (15.09%) cases in 106 consecutive hemispheres (101 patients) sat-isfied the postoperative CHS criteria. According to univariate analysis, advanced Suzuki stage, MVV of RA before bypass, and fold increase of MVV in RA.ES after bypass were significantly associated with postoperative CHS (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that left-operated hemisphere (OR (95%CI), 4.58 (1.05–19.97), p = 0.043), advanced Suzuki stage (OR (95%CI), 5.47 (1.99–15.05), p = 0.017), and fold increase of MVV in RA.ES (OR (95%CI), 1.17 (1.06–1.30), p = 0.003) were statistically significantly associated with the occurrence of CHS. The cut-off value of fold increase of MVV in RA.ES was 2.7-fold (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Left-operated hemisphere, advanced Suzuki stage, and postoperative fold increase of MVV in RA.ES were potential risk factors for postoperative CHS. Intraoperative MDU was useful for evaluating hemodynamics and predicting CHS.
Effect of Obesity on Masticatory Muscle Activity and Rhythmic Jaw Movements Evoked by Electrical Stimulation of Different Cortical Masticatory Areas
Authors: Li Ruixin , Kato Chiho , Fujita Akiyo , Abe Yasunori , Ogawa Takuya , Ishidori Hideyuki , Misawa Eri , Okihara Hidemasa , Kokai Satoshi , Ono Takashi
Published: June 2023

This study investigates rhythmic jaw movement (RJM) patterns and masticatory muscle activities during electrical stimulation in two cortical masticatory areas in obese male Zucker rats (OZRs), compared to their counterparts—lean male Zucker rats (LZRs) (seven each). At the age of 10 weeks, electromyographic (EMG) activity of the right anterior digastric muscle (RAD) and masseter muscles, and RJMs were recorded during repetitive intracortical micro-stimulation in the left anterior and posterior parts of the cortical masticatory area (A-area and P-area, respectively). Only P-area-elicited RJMs, which showed a more lateral shift and slower jaw-opening pattern than A-area-elicited RJMs, were affected by obesity. During P-area stimulation, the jaw-opening duration was significantly shorter (p < 0.01) in OZRs (24.3 ms) than LZRs (27.9 ms), the jaw-opening speed was significantly faster (p < 0.05) in OZRs (67.5 mm/s) than LZRs (50.8 mm/s), and the RAD EMG duration was significantly shorter (p < 0.01) in OZRs (5.2 ms) than LZR (6.9 ms). The two groups had no significant difference in the EMG peak-to-peak amplitude and EMG frequency parameters. This study shows that obesity affects the coordinated movement of masticatory components during cortical stimulation. While other factors may be involved, functional change in digastric muscle is partly involved in the mechanism.
Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Patients with Failure of Antithrombotic Therapy: Good Vibes from Early Studies
Authors: Preda Alberto , Baroni Matteo , Varrenti Marisa , Vargiu Sara , Carbonaro Marco , Giordano Federica , Gigli Lorenzo , Mazzone Patrizio
Published: June 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and predisposes patients to an increased risk of cardioembolic events (CE), such as ischemic stroke, TIA, or systemic embolism [...]
Simultaneous Surgical Approach with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in Patients with Concurrent Peritoneal and Liver Metastases of Colon Cancer Origin
Authors: Morales-Soriano Rafael , Pineño-Flores Cristina , Morón-Canis José Miguel , Molina-Romero Francisco Javier , Rodriguez-Pino José Carlos , Loyola-Miró Julia , Gonzalez-Argente Francisco Xavier , Palma-Zamora Elías , Guillot-Morales Mónica , Giménez Sandra , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , Ortega Miguel A. , Segura-Sampedro Juan José
Published: June 2023

Background: Simultaneous liver resection and peritoneal cytoreduction with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) remains controversial today. The aim of the study was to analyze the postoperative outcomes and survival of patients with advanced metastatic colon cancer (peritoneal and/or liver metastases). Methods: Retrospective observational study from a prospective maintained data base. Patients who underwent a simultaneous peritoneal cytoreduction and liver resection plus HIPEC were studied. Postoperative outcomes and overall and disease free survival were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: From January 2010 to October 2022, 22 patients operated with peritoneal and liver metastasis (LR+) were compared with 87 patients operated with peritoneal metastasis alone (LR−). LR+ group presented higher serious morbidity (36.4 vs. 14.9%; p: 0.034). Postoperative mortality did not reach statistical difference. Median overall and disease free survival was similar. Peritoneal carcinomatosis index was the only predictive factor of survival. Conclusions: Simultaneous peritoneal and liver resection is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and hospital stay, but with similar postoperative mortality and OS and disease free survival. These results reflect the evolution of these patients, considered inoperable until recently, and justify the trend to incorporate this surgical strategy within a multimodal therapeutic plan in highly selected patients.
Evaluation of the Factors Associated with Reinfections towards SARS-CoV-2 Using a Case Control Design
Authors: La Torre Giuseppe , Paglione Gianluca , Barone Lavinia Camilla , Cammalleri Vittoria , Faticoni Augusto , Marte Mattia , Pocino Roberta Noemi , Previte Carlo Maria , Bongiovanni Andrea , Colaprico Corrado , Ricci Eleonora , Imeshtari Valentin , Manai Maria Vittoria , Shaholli David , Barletta Vanessa India , Carluccio Giovanna , Moretti Luca , Vezza Francesca , Volpicelli Lorenzo , Massetti Anna Paola , Cinti Lilia , Roberto Piergiorgio , Napoli Anna , Antonelli Guido , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Sernia Sabina
Published: June 2023

Objective: The risk of reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 has been rapidly increased with the circulation of concerns about variants. So, the aim of our study was to evaluate the factors that increase the risk of this reinfection in healthcare workers compared to those who have never been positive and those who have had only one positivity. Methods: A case-control study was carried out at the Teaching Hospital Policlinico Umberto I in Rome, Sapienza University of Rome, in the period between 6 March 2020 and 3 June 2022. Cases are healthcare workers who have developed a reinfection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, while controls were either healthcare workers who tested positive once or those who have never tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Results: 134 cases and 267 controls were recruited. Female gender is associated with a higher odds of developing reinfection (OR: 2.42; 95% CI: 1.38–4.25). Moreover, moderate or high alcohol consumption is associated with higher odds of reinfection (OR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.19–1.87). Diabetes is also associated with higher odds of reinfection (OR: 3.45; 95% CI: 1.41–8.46). Finally, subjects with increased red blood cell counts have higher odds of reinfection (OR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.21–2.25). Conclusion: From the prevention point of view, these findings indicate that particular attention should be paid to subjects with diabetes mellitus, women and alcoholic drinkers. These results could also suggest that contact tracing represents a fundamental approach model against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, together with the health information of participants.
Physico-Chemical Study of the Possibility of Utilization of Coal Ash by Processing as Secondary Raw Materials to Obtain a Composite Cement Clinker
Authors: Muratov Bekkeldi , Kolesnikov Alexandr , Shapalov Shermakhan , Syrlybekkyzy Samal , Volokitina Irina , Zhunisbekova Dana , Takibayeva Gulchehra , Nurbaeva Farida , Aubakirova Taslima , Nurshakhanova Lazzat , Koishina Akmaral , Seidaliyeva Leila , Volokitin Andrey , Izbassar Aizhan , Panarin Igor
Published: June 2023

A significant amount of energy waste has accumulated in the world, in particular, large-tonnage fine ash from central heating stations (coal ash), which can negatively affect the natural environment and the health of the population. However, at the same time, due to its chemical composition, this waste can be disposed of by complex processing as a secondary mineral component, thus reducing the anthropogenic load on the natural environment. This article presents a physico-chemical study of coal ash for its further use as a secondary mineral component, in particular, a component of a raw mixture with limestone to produce a composite Portland cement clinker. Coal ash and limestone were subjected to granulometric, chemical, differential thermal, scanning electron microscopy, elemental chemical and X-ray structural analyses, as well as modeling to assess the possibility of optimizing the raw material and mineralogical composition of the composite Portland cement clinker. During the research, the chemical and elemental compositions of the coal ash and limestone were determined and SEM images of the coal ash were obtained; it was found that 68.04% of the coal ash was represented by the fraction with granules <0.16 mm. Using X-ray diffraction analysis, the main limestone minerals were identified, which were represented by calcite and silica. Based on the results of mathematical modeling of the utilization of coal ash from a thermal power plant by processing with limestone, a two-component raw material mixture containing 23.66% fly ash and 76.34% limestone was optimized and the optimal mineralogical composition of the composite Portland cement clinker was determined. Utilization of coal ash by processing as a secondary raw material can be carried out at almost any ash storage facility anywhere in the world, taking into account the chemical composition of the processed ash. It was found that the replacement of natural raw materials with man-made raw materials in the form of coal ash contributed to a reduction in fuel consumption for firing (kg of conventional fuel) by 13.76% and a decrease in the thermal effect of clinker formation by 5.063%.