bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening and Validation of Stable Reference Genes for qRT-PCR Analysis in Epicauta gorhami (Coleoptera: Meloidae)
Authors: Yang Guofeng , Yu Xuetao , Zhang Yan , Luo Jinhua , Li Xiaofei , Zhu Li , Zhang Huanhuan , Jin Lin , Wu Gang , Yan Xiaohong , Shen Chenhui
Published: December 2024

Epicauta gorhami is a hypermetamorphic insect that mainly forage soybeans during the adult stage. However, the lack of appropriate references hinders our studying of the gene function in E. gorhami. In this study, referring to five computational tools (Ct value, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and RefFinder), the stability of 10 housekeeping genes (GAPDH, ACT, RPL4, RPL27, α-TUB, RPS18, EF1α, RPS28, RPL13 and SOD) was assessed by qRT-PCR under three different conditions (adult ages, tissues/organs and temperatures). The findings suggested that SOD and RPS18 were the most ideal references for examine gene transcripts among diverse adult ages and at various temperatures; a pair of RPS18 and RPS28 was the most reliable genes to assess gene expressions in diverse adult tissues. Finally, the relative expression levels of EgUAP were computed after normalization RPS18 and RPS28 with across diverse adult tissues. As expected, EgUAP expression was abundant in the foregut, trachea and antenna and scarce in the midgut, hindgut and epidermis. These findings will lay a solid foundation for analyzing the gene expression of E. gorhami.
Ecological and Biological Studies of Two Larval Parasitoids on Two Monochamus Vectors of the Pinewood Nematode in South Korea
Authors: Kim Moo-Sung , Kim Il-Kwon
Published: December 2024

Pine wilt disease, caused by the pinewood nematode, affects Pinus densiflora, P. koraiensis Siebold and Zucc., and P. thunbergii Parl. in South Korea. It is primarily spread by vectors such as Monochamus alternatus Hope and M. saltuarius (Gebler). However, biological control research in this context remains limited in South Korea. We identified 15 parasitoids of these vectors, namely, two ectoparasitic larval parasitoids, Cyanopterus flavator (Fabricius) and Spathius verustus Chao, both in Braconidae, Hymenoptera. A field survey was conducted in Pohang from 2018 to 2020 to elucidate the ecological and biological characteristics of these parasitoids. The average parasitism rates of C. flavator were 6.3% and 1.0%, whereas those of S. verustus were 0.7% and 0.5% on M. alternatus and M. saltuarius, respectively. Both C. flavator and S. verustus appeared to prefer M. alternatus to M. saltuarius, but a statistically significant difference was observed only for C. flavator (p < 0.001). The peak season and tree height with the highest parasitism rate of C. flavator coincided with the period when M. alternatus larvae lived beneath the bark and the highest larval density of M. alternatus and M. saltuarius occurred in pine trees. These findings provide valuable information for determining the optimal release time and height for C. flavator to achieve effective biological control.
Artificial Diet for Immatures of Sphenophorus levis Vaurie, 1978 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Based on a Multidimensional Model
Authors: Faria Luana Viana , Takahashi Tamara Akemi , Garcia Adriano Gomes , Parra José Roberto Postali
Published: December 2024

Pest attacks, especially by Sphenophorus levis, are a factor affecting sugarcane production. As the pest’s life habits make chemical control difficult, efforts are focused on finding integrated management alternatives. It is therefore essential to study the biology of S. levis, using artificial diets for rearing the insect in the laboratory. Artificial diets are commonly used for rearing pest insects, providing specimens year-round even when they are present only seasonally in the field, as is the case with S. levis. However, there is no diet in the literature that provides viable egg-to-adult development for rearing pests in the laboratory. Recently, studies to optimize diets using software with an interactive approach have shown good results in diet development. This study aimed to develop an artificial diet for S. levis using Design-Expert® software (Version 11) to enable development and viability comparable to insects in the wild. The multivariate approach consisted of initially varying six components of the diet and then varying the three components that most influenced viability and the development rate, providing viabilities of over 60% at the end of the S. levis cycle in both phases of the screening design. However, the physical characteristics of the diet, such as the water content and texture, proved to be preponderant factors for the proper development of the insect and should be considered when using its artificial diet using a suitable container and uncrushed wheat germ.
The Phytochemical Properties of Low-Grade Longan Syrup and Its Potential Use as a Dietary Supplement for Honey Bees
Authors: Lertlakkanawat Phurichaya , Sommano Sarana Rose , Danmek Khanchai , Hongsibsong Surat , Jung Chuleui , Namin Saeed Mohamadzade , Wongkaew Malaiporn , Chuttong Bajaree
Published: December 2024

Climate change significantly affects honey bee populations and their access to natural food sources, demanding alternative economic feed sources. Longan stands out as the most important fruit crop in Southeast Asia, but with a surplus of low-grade fruit that is not suitable for the market. This study investigates the potential of longan syrup as an alternative carbohydrate source for honey bees by measuring sugar composition, phytochemical profiles, feed, and survival, as well as the resulting gut microbial changes. Processed longan syrup contains 8.2, 85.1, and 33.1 mg/g of sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 24.94 and 129.78 mg/g, respectively, showing a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical inhibition rate of 26.78% and an 87.82% antiradical activity rate via 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). In vitro supplementation studies indicated that survival was highest in the 50% w/v sucrose syrup condition (control), followed by honey bees fed with 10%, 20%, and 30% longan syrup concentrations, respectively. Analyses of honey bee gut microbiomes revealed that longan syrup supplementation increased fermentative microorganisms such as Lactobacillus and Fructobacillus, which are beneficial for honey bees’ health. Even though the addition of higher amounts of longan syrup would not be recommended, a 10% addition would be beneficial to honey bees’ health through the modulation of gut microbiomes, demonstrating its potential as a dietary supplement that is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to sugar syrup during shortages of natural carbohydrate sources.
Effects of Gut Bacteria on the Fitness of Rice Leaf Folder Cnaphalocrocis medinalis
Authors: Pan Qinjian , Wang Qingpeng , Shikano Ikkei , Liu Fang , Yao Zhichao
Published: December 2024

The rice leaf folder Cnaphalocrocis medinalis is an important migratory pest in Asia. Although this pest possesses diverse bacterial communities in its gut, functions of these bacteria in modulating host fitness, including development durations, pupal weight, adult longevity, and fecundity, remain unknown. We isolated gut bacteria from field–collected C. medinalis larvae using a culture–dependent method and identified 15 bacterial isolates. Six of the isolates (Klebsiella aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter ludwigii, Enterobacter asburiae, Pantoea dispersa, and Pantoea ananatis) were newly discovered in C. medinalis. When larvae were orally inoculated with individual bacterial isolates, 15 isolates showed varying degrees of effects on C. medinalis fitness. Importantly, we found that 10 bacterial isolates induced significant larval mortality. Specifically, the inoculation of Pseudomonas mosselii, P. dispersa, Chryseobacterium culicis, P. ananatis, and Myroides odoratus caused high mortality ranging from 40.0% to 56.7%. However, reducing the entire gut bacterial community with antibiotic treatment negatively impacted C. medinalis fitness, while the reinoculation of a bacterial community to antibiotic–treated larvae recovered some of the adverse effects. In particular, control and bacterial community–inoculated C. medinalis laid approximately 37.6% more eggs than antibiotic–treated C. medinalis. This suggests that these bacteria affect their hosts differently when they are together as compared to alone. Our results reveal that C. medinalis harbors gut bacteria capable of both mutualistic and pathogenic interactions, suggesting their potential as biocontrol agents and indicating that targeting the gut bacterial community could be an effective strategy for controlling C. medinalis infestations.
Adapting to Uncertainty: Foraging Strategies in Dinoponera quadriceps (Formicidae: Ponerinae)
Authors: Eloi Igor , Silva-Neto Waldemar Alves , Hattori Wallisen Tadashi , Araújo Arrilton
Published: December 2024

When searching for food, animals often make decisions about where to go, how long to stay in a foraging area, and whether to return to the most recently visited spot. These decisions can be enhanced by cognitive traits and adjusted based on previous experience. In social insects, such as ants, foraging efficiency has an impact at both the individual and colony levels. The present study investigated the effect of the distance to, capture success, food size, and the reward rate on decisions of where to forage in Dinoponera quadriceps, a ponerine ant that forages solitarily and makes individual foraging decisions, in laboratory studies. We also investigated the influence of learning on the workers’ performance over successive trips to search for food by measuring the patch residence time in each foraging trip. Four scenarios were created that differed in the food reward rates, the food size offered, and the distances from the colony to the food site. Our work demonstrated that as a general rule, the D. quadriceps workers return to the place where a prey item was found on the previous trip, regardless of the distance, food size, and reward rate. When the ants did not capture prey, they were more likely to change their route to search for food. Our results also indicated a learning process for the routes of exploration, as well as the food site conditions for exploration. After repeated trips, the foragers reduced the patch residence time in areas where they did not capture food and quickly changed foraging areas, increasing their foraging efficiency.
Biodiverse Management of Perennial Flower Margins in Farmland: Meandering Mowing by ‘Three-Strip Management’ to Boost Pollinators and Beneficial Insects
Authors: Parmentier Laurian , Vanderstappen Hannah , Haesaert Geert
Published: December 2024

Agricultural intensification has led to significant declines in beneficial insect populations, such as pollinators and natural enemies, along with their ecosystem services. The installation of perennial flower margins in farmland is a popular agri-environmental scheme to mitigate these losses, promoting biodiversity, pollination, and pest control. However, outcomes can vary widely, and recent insights into flower margins in an agricultural context suggest that management could be an important contributor to this variation. This study evaluated two mowing management regimes: the new “three-strip management” method with uneven, curved mowing lines and regular phased mowing as a control method. During the third year of application, we evaluated the effects on the alpha diversity indices of pollinators and natural enemies, as well as plant–pollinator visitation networks. Curved three-strip management significantly increased the abundance of all pollinator groups (+44%) and natural enemies (+50%), and the taxonomic richness and diversity of pollinators, especially for rarer solitary bees. Floral diversity was also higher, with more unique plants blooming in early spring and late summer, generating more unique plant–pollinator interactions (+54%) and a positive impact on multiple network-level properties. Our findings provide new evidence that nature-based management methods can be a win–win solution, creating high-quality habitats that enhance the insect diversity of various groups, support associated ecosystem services, and help restore overall farmland biodiversity.
Evaluating the Effects of Flavonoids on Insects: Implications for Managing Pests Without Harming Beneficials
Authors: Riddick Eric Wellington
Published: December 2024

Flavonoids have multiple functions, including host-plant defense against attacks from herbivorous insects. This manuscript reviewed and analyzed the scientific literature to test the hypothesis that flavonoids can be utilized to manage pests without causing significant harm to beneficials. The methodology involved using recognized literature databases, e.g., Web of Science, Scopus, and CAB Abstracts, via the USDA-ARS, National Agricultural Library, DigiTop literature retrieval system. Data were compiled in tables and subjected to statistical analysis, when appropriate. Flavonoids were generally harmful to true bugs and true flies but harmless to honey bees. Flavonoid glycosides showed a tendency to harm true bugs (Heteroptera) and true flies (Diptera). Flavonoid glycosides were harmless to sawflies. Flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides produced a mixture of harmful and harmless outcomes to herbivorous beetles, depending on the species. Flavonoid glycosides were harmless to butterflies. In conclusion, specific flavonoids could function as feeding stimulants or deterrents, oviposition stimulants or deterrents, chemical protectants from pesticides, mating attractants, less-toxic insecticides, and other functions. Flavonoids could manage some insect pests without causing significant harm to beneficials (e.g., honey bees). Flavonoid-based insecticides could serve as environmentally benign alternatives to broad-spectrum insecticides against some pests, but field testing is necessary.
A Comparative Analysis of Mitogenomes in Species of the Tapinoma nigerrimum Complex and Other Species of the Genus Tapinoma (Formicidae, Dolichoderinae)
Authors: Ruiz-Mena Areli , Mora Pablo , Rico-Porras José M. , Kaufmann Bernard , Seifert Bernhard , Palomeque Teresa , Lorite Pedro
Published: December 2024

Using next-generation sequencing data, the complete mitogenomes of six species from the genus Tapinoma were assembled. This study explores the mitochondrial genomes of Tapinoma species, among them the five species from the Tapinoma nigerrimum complex, comparing them with each other and with other species from Dolichoderinae subfamily to understand their evolutionary relationships and evolution. Tapinoma mitochondrial genomes contain the typical set of 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and the A + T-rich control region. A phylogenetic analysis using the protein-coding gene sequences from available Dolichoderinae mitogenomes supports the monophyletic nature of the genus Tapinoma, with the T. nigerrimum complex forming a well-supported clade. Key findings include genetic traits unique to the T. nigerrimum complex, such as a start codon in the atp8 gene and a complete stop codon in cox1, distinguishing them from other Tapinoma species. Additionally, a gene rearrangement involving tRNA-Trp, tRNA-Cys, and tRNA-Tyr was found exclusively in the Tapinoma species, suggesting a potential phylogenetic marker for the genus.
Research on the Reproduction of Trichogramma chilonis Based on Samia cynthia ricini Eggs: Temperature, Functional Response and Proportional Effect
Authors: Yuan Xi , Li Dunsong , Deng Weili
Published: December 2024

T. chilonis is a commonly used biological agent, but its existing host eggs have shown some problems in the breeding of T. chilonis, and the search for more suitable host eggs is imminent. Here, we focused on S. c. ricini, an intermediate host that was used in the past for Trichogramma spp. but has since received less attention. We attempted to understand the effects of developmental temperature and duration on its longevity and egg production, evaluated the functional response of T. chilonis to S. c. ricini egg, and screened for a suitable wasp-to-egg ratio for the production of T. chilonis. Our results showed that the developmental temperature and duration after the emergence of T. chilonis significantly affected adult longevity and oviposition, that 25–28 °C is a suitable temperature range for the survival and e-g laying of S. c. ricini, and that a developmental duration of at least 24 h was required to obtain more qualified S. c. ricini eggs. T. chilonis demonstrated a type II functional response to S. c. ricini eggs; different wasp-to-egg ratios significantly affected the propagation efficiency of T. chilonis reproduction from S. c. ricini eggs, and the best reproduction efficiency was achieved with wasp-to-egg ratios of 1:2 and 1:3, Considering that there were no significant differences in most parameters between the two treatments, as well as cost concerns, we concluded that wasp-to-egg ratios of 1:2 are an important parameter that could be applied. Our results may provide some valuable insights into the mass rearing of T. chilonis.
Sex- and Metamorphosis-Related Changes in the Cuticular Lipid Profile of Galleria mellonella Pupae and Adults
Authors: Boguś Mieczysława I. , Kazek Michalina
Published: December 2024

The majority of insects reproduce sexually. Among the many factors involved in controlling the reproductive process, cuticular lipids play an important role as unique chemical signatures of species, developmental stage, and sex, and participate in mate recognition. An understanding of the sex- and metamorphosis-related fluctuations in the cuticular lipid profiles of harmful insects is necessary to hamper their reproductive process. A GC/MS analysis of the cuticular lipids of the beehive pest Galleria mellonella Linnaeus (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) revealed 11 FFAs in the male pupae (C8:0, C9:0, C14:0, C15:0, C16:1, C16:0, C17:0, C18:1, C18:0, C20:1, and C21:1) together with another two in the females (C10:0 and C17:1). As metamorphosis progressed, some FFAs disappeared from the pupal cuticle (C8:0 and C17:0 in both sexes, and C10:0, C17:1, and C20:1 only in female pupae) and the levels of the others changed. In adult virgin males and females, C8:0, C17:1, and C17:0 reappeared and two FFAs absent in pupae (C6:0 and C11:0) appeared. In virgin males, C13:0 also appeared (absent in pupae). Copulation resulted in the disappearance of C13:0 and C17:1, decreased the concentrations of C9:0, C11:0, C18:1, and C18:0, and elevated the amounts of C14:0, C16:1, and C16:0 in mated males. In mated females, the concentrations of C11:0, C14:0, C15:0, C16:0, C17:1, and C18:1 increased while C18:1 decreased. Copulation reduced cholesterol levels in mated females, and increased those in males.
Field Trials of Wild Entomopathogenic Fungi and Commercial Steinernema carpocapsae on the Large Pine Weevil (Hylobius abietis [L.]) Including an Assessment of Non-Target Effects
Authors: Quinzo-Ortega Luis M. , Swaney William T. , Moore Roger , Rae Robbie , Williams Christopher D.
Published: December 2024

The large pine weevil (Hylobius abietis L.) is a major pest in European and Asian coniferous forests, particularly in managed plantations where clear-felling practices create ideal conditions for its population growth. Traditional management practices involving synthetic insecticides have limited efficacy in terms of reducing pest populations and pose environmental risks. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a wild entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) and the commercial entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae (EPN) as biological control agents (BCAs) against H. abietis in clear-felled spruce plantations in Wales and Scotland. Field trials used a randomised block design with three treatments (EPN full dose, EPF full dose and a combination of EPF+EPN at half doses each) compared to a control. Emergence trapping and destructive sampling were employed to assess treatment efficacy. All treatments significantly reduced weevil emergence, with the mixed treatment showing the greatest impact. Destructive sampling revealed strong associations between treatment type and infection outcomes in H. abietis, with a small but significant relationship between weevil developmental stages and infection types. Importantly, the treatments had no significant impact on the total abundance or taxon richness of non-target invertebrates. These findings suggest that wild EPFs alone and combined with EPNs are effective and environmentally safe alternatives to synthetic insecticides for managing H. abietis populations in managed forests.
DNA Barcodes and Morphology Reveal Two New Species of the Genus Prochas Walkley, 1959 (Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae), from China
Authors: Han Yuanyuan , Achterberg Kees van , Chen Xuexin
Published: December 2024

DNA barcoding is an effective modern tool in taxonomy, evolutionary biology, and biodiversity research. Many new species have been discovered and described with DNA barcodes as part of their diagnostic features. We combined morphological examination and molecular species delimitation of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 (COI) gene using the automatic barcode gap discovery (ABGD) to investigate species boundaries. The genus Prochas Walkley (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) was first reported from China and is new for the Oriental and Eastern Palearctic regions. Using an integrative taxonomy method, two new species P. rugipunctata sp. nov. and P. striata sp. nov. are hereby described and illustrated. A key to the world species and a distribution map are provided.
A Novel Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-Based Method for the Rapid Identification of Chrysodeixis includens and Rachiplusia nu
Authors: Gotardi Guilherme A. , Batista Natália R. F. , Ishizuka Tamylin Kaori , Marques Luiz H. , Dal Pogetto Mário H. , Sethi Amit , Dahmer Mark L. , Nowatzki Timothy
Published: December 2024

Chrysodeixis includens and Rachiplusia nu are two species belonging to the Plusiinae subfamily within the Noctuidae family. Due to their morphological similarity, the identification of their larvae is difficult and time-consuming. A rapid and accurate identification of these two species is essential for their management as these species exhibit differential susceptibilities to insecticides and crops engineered to express Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins, and a molecular tool can easily provide this differentiation. Currently, molecular analysis can identify these species through genetic sequencing, an expensive and time-consuming process. In our study, after sequencing part of the mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene and based on the differences found in the gene of each species, a set of species-specific primers was developed: one reverse primer common to both species and two forward primers, specific to each species, amplifying fragments of 199 base pairs (bp) for C. includens and 299 bp for R. nu. Our results indicate that the primers were specific for these species, enabling the identification of individuals directly through agarose gel. The new methodology proved to be accurate, rapid, and reliable for the correct identification of these two species of loopers.
Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier—An Overview over Technology, Status, and Challenges in Germany
Authors: Willich Caroline
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen is set to become an important energy carrier in Germany in the next decades in the country’s quest to reach the target of climate neutrality by 2045. To meet Germany’s potential green hydrogen demand of up to 587 to 1143 TWh by 2045, electrolyser capacities between 7 and 71 GW by 2030 and between 137 to 275 GW by 2050 are required. Presently, the capacities for electrolysis are small (around 153 MW), and even with an increase in electrolysis capacity of >1 GW per year, Germany will still need to import large quantities of hydrogen to meet its future demand. This work examines the expected green hydrogen demand in different sectors, describes the available technologies, and highlights the current situation and challenges that need to be addressed in the next years to reach Germany’s climate goals, with regard to scaling up production, infrastructure development, and transport as well as developing the demand for green hydrogen.
Recruitment Feasibility for a Randomized Controlled Pilot Study of Animal-Assisted Intervention for Hospitalized Older Adults
Authors: Townsend Lisa , Gee Nancy R. , Friedmann Erika , Mueller Megan K. , Barker Sandra B.
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the feasibility of recruiting hospitalized older adults into a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing an animal-assisted intervention (AAI) involving visits from therapy dogs with an active control (conversation with a volunteer) and treatment as usual (TU) for addressing health and mental health outcomes. Recruitment occurred on acute care hospital units and a long-term physical rehabilitation facility. Feasibility data included the number of recruitment contacts, recruitment rate, and reasons for non-enrollment. The recruitment pool included 1124 patients; the recruitment rate was 4.8% (n = 54). This study explored the difficulties inherent in recruiting medically ill, hospitalized older adults for an RCT of hospital-based therapy dog visits. We believe this is the first RCT of its kind to evaluate the feasibility of recruiting this population for an animal-assisted intervention. Although the intervention was well received, older adults’ illnesses presented significant barriers to study enrollment. Strategies for improving the recruitment of hospitalized older adults for RCTs are discussed.
International Cardiovascular Development, Anatomy, and Regeneration (ICDAR) Community Meeting: Prague 2024
Authors: Sedmera David , Baldini Antonio , van den Hoff Maurice , Chaudhry Bill
Published: December 2024

The International Cardiovascular Anatomy, Development, and Regeneration meeting was held from 18–20 September 2024, in Prague, Czech Republic, supported by the European Society of Cardiology’s Working Group on Development, Anatomy, and Pathology. Hosted at the Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, the event began with a hands-on workshop on normal and malformed human hearts, covering morphology, echocardiographic imaging, and rare congenital cases. The session allowed participants to examine and image both normal and malformed hearts. The main conference featured nine platform sessions on topics including pediatric cardiology, cardiac progenitors biology, congenital heart disease mechanisms, and cardiac regeneration. Highlights included two keynote lectures on cardiac genetics and development. In keeping with an established, decades-long tradition, the conference is a well-attended event, marking significant engagement in the latest cardiovascular research. The next appointment will be in Granada, Spain, 15–17 October 2025.
Clinical Insights into Vestibular Disorders
Authors: Martin-Sanz Eduardo
Published: December 2024

We are pleased to present a Special Issue addressing the current challenges in vestibular disorders [...]
Efficacy of Kinesiotaping on Functional Outcomes, Pain, and Edema in the Early Rehabilitation After Total Knee Arthroplasty Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Negrini Francesco , Fascio Edoardo , Tivolesi Valentina , Pelosi Catia , Tripodo Elena , Banfi Giuseppe , Negrini Stefano , Vitale Jacopo A.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The aim of our study was to verify whether the application of Kinesiotaping in addition to the usual treatment was superior to the usual treatment alone regarding functional outcome, pain, and edema in the first 13 days after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery. Methods: The study sample (n = 71) comprised 42.3% men and the mean age was 68.1 (±9) years. A 1:1 ratio randomization list was used to allocate the patient either to a Kinesiotaping Group (KT) or to a control (CON) group. The KT and CON groups received the same volume of standard post-TKA rehabilitation. KT was additionally treated with lymphatic correction applications of Kinesiotaping (Kinesio® Tex Classic, Mogliano Veneto, Italy) on day 3 (±1) and 7 (±1) post-surgery (two applications during the rehabilitation period). Each application lasted four to five days before removal. KT was removed before the patients’ discharge. The main outcome measures were as follows: (1) the circumference at knee level; (2) the VAS for pain; (3) the 10 m Walking Test; (4) the Timed Up and Go Test; (5) the passive knee range of motion; (6) body composition; (7) the Functional Independence Measure; and (8) the Modified Barthel Index. Data were collected at T0 (before surgery), T1 (3 ± 1 days after surgery), T2 (7 ± 1 days after surgery), and T3 (13 ± 1 days after surgery). Results: No inter-group differences were found between KT and CON at T0, T1, T2, and T3. An effect of time was observed for all outcome measures. Conclusions: No superiority of Kinesiotaping was observed compared to the usual rehabilitation treatment.
Differences in Management and Outcomes in Atraumatic Splenic Rupture Compared to Traumatic Injury Following Blunt Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Rippel Katharina , Ruhnke Hannes , Jehs Betram , Haerting Mark , Decker Josua A. , Kroencke Thomas J. , Scheurig-Muenkler Christian
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: To evaluate the differences in treatment and outcomes between traumatic and atraumatic splenic lacerations. Methods: This retrospective study included all patients with a diagnosis of splenic lacerations confirmed by computed tomography that presented from 01/2010 to 03/2023 at one tertiary hospital. The exclusion criteria included missing image data and death in the first 24 h due to extensive trauma. The etiology of the splenic laceration, demographic characteristics, and clinical parameters were recorded and evaluated as prognostic factors in therapy success and mortality. Subgroup analyses were undertaken according to the etiology of the splenic laceration and the primary treatment. The extent of splenic laceration was assessed by using the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) score in its latest revision (2018). Results: Of all 291 enrolled patients (mean age 47 ± 21 years, 204 males), 50 presented with atraumatic splenic lacerations due to different underlying causes. The occurrence of moderate and high-grade laceration differed significantly between the atraumatic and traumatic study group (45/50 [90%] vs. 139/241 [58%], p < 0.001). Accordingly, the number of patients being treated conservatively differed greatly (20/50 [40%] vs. 164/241 [56%]), with a worse clinical success rate for atraumatic lacerations (75% vs. 94.5%). Atraumatic splenic injuries showed a higher conversion rate to surgery (2/20 [10%] vs. 2/164 [1%]). Despite the lower clinical success rate of splenic artery embolization (SAE) in atraumatic injuries (87% vs. 97%), the number of patients needing treatment for primary SAE in AAST 3 injuries was 14.1 in the traumatic population and only 4 in the atraumatic population. Conclusions: Atraumatic splenic injuries should not be treated as traumatic splenic injuries. An early upgrade to SAE or surgery should be considered for moderate splenic injuries, and they should be evaluated by an interdisciplinary team on a case-by-case basis. However, due to the underlying multimorbidity of patients with atraumatic splenic injuries, a higher mortality is to be expected.
Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Mild, Young and Early COPD: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of 5468 Patients
Authors: Aljama Cristina , Esquinas Cristina , Loeb Eduardo , Granados Galo , Nuñez Alexa , Lopez-Gonzalez Ane , Miravitlles Marc , Barrecheguren Miriam
Published: December 2024

Early, mild and young COPD concepts are not clearly defined and are often used interchangeably to refer to the onset of the disease. Objective: To describe and compare the characteristics of mild, young and early COPD in a large sample of COPD from primary and secondary care. Methods: Pooled analysis of individual data from four multicenter observational studies of patients with stable COPD (≥40 years, FEV1/FVC < 0.7, smoking ≥ 10 pack-years). Mild COPD was defined as FEV1% ≥ 65%; young COPD as <55 years; and early COPD as <55 years and smoking ≤ 20 pack-years. The relationship between FEV1(%), age and pack-years was analyzed with linear regression equations. Results: We included 5468 patients. Their mean age was 67 (SD: 9.6) years, and 85% were male. A total of 1158 (21.2%) patients had mild COPD; 636 (11.6%) had young COPD and 191 (3.5%) early COPD. The three groups shared common characteristics: they were more frequently female, younger and with less tobacco exposure compared with the remaining patients. Early COPD had fewer comorbidities and fewer COPD admissions, but no significant differences were found in ambulatory exacerbations. In linear regression analysis, the decline in FEV1(%) was more pronounced for the first 20 pack-years for all age groups and was even more important in younger patients. Conclusions: Mild, young and early COPD patients were more frequently women. The steepest decline in FEV1(%) was observed in individuals <55 years and smoking between 10 and 20 pack-years (early COPD), which highlights the importance of an early detection and implementation of preventive and therapeutic measures.
In COVID-19 Patients Supported with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, Intensive Care Unit Mortality Is Associated with the Blood Transfusion Rate
Authors: Makhoul Maged , Dann Eldad J. , Mashiach Tatiana , Pikovsky Oleg , Lorusso Roberto , Eisa Jamela , Bulut Halil I. , Galante Ori , Ilgiyaev Eduard , Bolotin Gil , Rahimi-Levene Naomi
Published: December 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic markedly increased the number of patients with infection-related acute respiratory distress syndrome who required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and multiple blood transfusions. This study aimed to assess a potential correlation between the daily rate of transfused blood products and the intensive care unit (ICU) outcome of ECMO-supported COVID-19 patients. Methods: Data were retrieved from the electronic databases of three Israeli tertiary care centers. All COVID-19 patients treated with ECMO for >3 days in these centers between July 2020 and November 2021 were included in the analysis. Results: The study incorporated 106 patients [median age 49 (17–73) years]. The median numbers of ECMO days and daily transfused packed red blood cell (PRBC) units were 20.5 (4–240) and 0.61 (0–2.82), respectively. In multivariate analysis, age ≥50 years was an independent factor for ICU mortality [odds ratio (OR) 4.47). In ECMO-supported patients for <38 days, transfusion of ≥0.85 units/day was associated with higher ICU mortality compared to that observed in patients transfused with <0.85 PRBC units/day (OR = 5.43; p < 0.004). Transfusion of ≥0.5 units/day combined with ECMO support of ≥38 days (OR = 17.9; p < 0.001) conferred the highest mortality risk. Conclusions: Three-quarters of patients <50 years old and half of patients ≥50 years were successfully discharged from ICU. Higher daily transfusion rates were associated with significantly increased ICU mortality, irrespective of ECMO duration. Reduced blood transfusion may improve the survival of these patients. This approach could also contribute to the measures taken to address the challenges of blood shortages occurring during pandemics and other global or national emergencies.
Challenges in AAV-Based Retinal Gene Therapies and the Role of Magnetic Nanoparticle Platforms
Authors: Siontas Oliver , Ahn Seungkuk
Published: December 2024

Retinal diseases, leading to various visual impairments and blindness, are on the rise. However, the advancement of retinal gene therapies offers new hope for treatment of such diseases. Among different vector systems for conferring therapeutic genetic load to retinal cells, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have been most intensively explored and have already successfully gained multiple clinical approvals. AAV-based retinal gene therapies have shown great promise in treating retinal disorders, but usually rely on the heavily disruptive administration methods such as subretinal injection. This is because the clinically well-established, minimally invasive alternative of intravitreal injection (IVI) necessitates AAVs to traverse the retinal inner limiting membrane (ILM), which is hard to penetrate in higher eye models, like human or porcine eyes. Additionally, AAVs’ natural transduction preference, known as tropism, is commonly not specific to cells of only one target retinal layer, which is another ongoing challenge in retinal gene therapy. This review examines strategies to overcome these obstacles with a focus on the potential of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for improved retinal AAV delivery.
Predicting Severe Respiratory Failure in Patients with COVID-19: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ceylan Bahadır , Olmuşçelik Oktay , Karaalioğlu Banu , Ceylan Şule , Şahin Meyha , Aydın Selda , Yılmaz Ezgi , Dumlu Rıdvan , Kapmaz Mahir , Çiçek Yeliz , Kansu Abdullah , Duger Mustafa , Mert Ali
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Studies attempting to predict the development of severe respiratory failure in patients with a COVID-19 infection using machine learning algorithms have yielded different results due to differences in variable selection. We aimed to predict the development of severe respiratory failure, defined as the need for high-flow oxygen support, continuous positive airway pressure, or mechanical ventilation, in patients with COVID-19, using machine learning algorithms to identify the most important variables in achieving this prediction. Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study included COVID-19 patients with mild respiratory failure (mostly receiving oxygen through a mask or nasal cannula). We used XGBoost, support vector machines, multi-layer perceptron, k-nearest neighbor, random forests, decision trees, logistic regression, and naïve Bayes methods to accurately predict severe respiratory failure in these patients. Results: A total of 320 patients (62.1% male; average age, 54.67 ± 15.82 years) were included in this study. During the follow-ups of these cases, 114 patients (35.6%) required high-level oxygen support, 67 (20.9%) required intensive care unit admission, and 43 (13.4%) died. The machine learning algorithms with the highest accuracy values were XGBoost, support vector machines, k-nearest neighbor, logistic regression, and multi-layer perceptron (0.7395, 0.7395, 0.7291, 0.7187, and 0.75, respectively). The method that obtained the highest ROC-AUC value was logistic regression (ROC-AUC = 0.7274). The best predictors of severe respiratory failure were a low lymphocyte count, a high computed tomography score in the right and left upper lung zones, an elevated neutrophil count, a small decrease in CRP levels on the third day of admission, a high Charlson comorbidity index score, and a high serum procalcitonin level. Conclusions: The development of severe respiratory failure in patients with COVID-19 could be successfully predicted using machine learning methods, especially logistic regression, and the best predictors of severe respiratory failure were the lymphocyte count and the degree of upper lung zone involvement.
Comparative Study of Adalimumab, Infliximab and Certolizumab Pegol in the Treatment of Cystoid Macular Edema Due to Behçet’s Disease
Authors: Barroso-García Nuria , Martín-Varillas José Luis , Ferraz-Amaro Iván , Sánchez-Bilbao Lara , Martín-Gutiérrez Adrián , Adán Alfredo , Hernanz-Rodríguez Inés , Beltrán-Catalán Emma , Cordero-Coma Miguel , Díaz-Valle David , Hernández-Garfella Marisa , Martínez-Costa Lucía , Díaz-Llopis Manuel , Herreras José M. , Maíz-Alonso Olga , Torre-Salaberri Ignacio , Atanes-Sandoval Antonio , Insúa Santos , Almodóvar-González Raquel , Fanlo Patricia , Aberasturi Juan Ramón De Dios , García-Aparicio Ángel , Rodríguez-Montero Sergio , Jovaní Vega , Moya-Alvarado Patricia , Peña Sainz-Pardo Eva , Calvo-Río Vanesa , Demetrio-Pablo Rosalía , Hernández José Luis , Blanco Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Background: The leading cause of blindness due to non-infectious uveitis is cystoid macular edema (CME). Behçet’s disease (BD) is one of the most commonly conditions related to CME. Objectives: To compare the effectiveness and safety of adalimumab (ADA), infliximab (IFX) and certolizumab (CZP) in refractory CME due to BD. Methods: Multicenter study of BD-CME patients with no response to glucocorticoids (GCs) and at least one conventional immunosuppressive drug. At baseline, all patients presented CME, defined by OCT > 300 µ. The effectiveness of ADA, IFX and CZP was assessed over a 2-year period from baseline using the following ocular parameters: macular thickness (µm), visual acuity (BCVA), anterior chamber (AC) cells and vitritis. Mixed-effects regression models were applied. Results: a total of 50 patients (75 eyes) were studied (ADA = 25; IFX = 15 and CZP = 10). No significant differences in demographic parameters were found among the three groups. However, individuals in the CZP group had a significantly extended time from diagnosis to treatment onset (72 (36–120) months, p = 0.03) and had received a higher number of biological therapies (1.7 ± 1.1) compared to the ADA and IFX groups. Within the CZP group, ADA and IFX were previously administrated in seven patients. After 2 years of follow-up, a rapid and sustained reduction in macular thickness was noted in all three groups with no significant differences between them. Additionally, enhancements in BCVA, AC cells and vitritis were also observed. No serious adverse events were reported in the CZP group, although one isolated case of bacteremia was documented in the ADA group. ADA, IFX and CZP appear to be effective and safe treatments for refractory CME in BD. CZP seems to remain effective even in patients with an insufficient response to ADA and/or IFX. Conclusions: ADA, IFX and CZP appear to be effective and safe treatments for refractory CME in BD. CZP seems to remain effective even in patients with an insufficient response to ADA and/or IFX.
Validation of the Hungarian Version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire on Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS)
Authors: Debes Wesam A. , Sadaqa Munseef , Makai Alexandra , Dózsa-Juhász Olívia , Tumpek Nikolett , Kocsis Judit , Ács Pongrác , Szűcs Réka Laura , Németh Zsanett , Prémusz Viktória , Hock Marta
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts the quality of life. This study aimed to validate the Hungarian version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS) and assess its psychometric properties in the context of the Hungarian population. Study design: A cross-sectional study involved 215 Hungarian-speaking women with a mean age of 67.6 ± 11.9 years. Main outcome measure: Participants were administered both the ICIQ-FLUTS and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF). The psychometric analysis included test–retest reliability, convergent validity, and internal consistency. Results: The Hungarian version of ICIQ-FLUTS demonstrated strong psychometric properties. The test–retest reliability analysis showed a high intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.921), indicating excellent agreement between measurements over a 14-day interval. Convergent validity was supported by a strong positive correlation between the total scores of ICIQ-FLUTS and ICIQ-SF (ρ = 0.686, p < 0.001), emphasizing shared underlying constructs. Furthermore, the ICIQ-FLUTS questionnaire exhibited good internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s α coefficient of 0.862. Conclusions: This study successfully validated the Hungarian version of the ICIQ-FLUTS questionnaire and demonstrated its robust psychometric properties. This tool will enable healthcare practitioners and researchers to effectively assess and address UI’s impact on their quality of life.
Proteomics and Metabolomics in Varicocele-Associated Male Infertility: Advancing Precision Diagnostics and Therapy
Authors: Kaltsas Aris , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Markou Eleftheria , Zachariou Athanasios , Stavropoulos Marios , Kratiras Zisis , Symeonidis Evangelos N. , Dimitriadis Fotios , Sofikitis Nikolaos , Chrisofos Michael
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Varicoceles are a common contributor to male infertility, significantly impacting male-factor infertility cases. Traditional diagnostic methods often lack the sensitivity to detect the molecular and cellular disruptions caused by varicoceles, limiting the development of effective, personalized treatments. This narrative review aims to explore the advancements in proteomics and metabolomics as innovative, non-invasive diagnostic tools for varicocele-associated male infertility and their potential in guiding personalized therapeutic strategies. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to October 2024. Studies focusing on the application of proteomic and metabolomic analyses in varicocele-associated male infertility were selected. The findings were critically analyzed to synthesize current knowledge and identify future research directions. Results: Proteomic analyses revealed differentially expressed proteins in the sperm and seminal plasma of varicocele patients, revealing disruptions in pathways related to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and energy metabolism. Key proteins such as heat shock proteins, mitochondrial enzymes, and apoptotic regulators were notably altered. Metabolomic profiling uncovered specific metabolites in seminal plasma—such as decreased levels of lysine, valine, and fructose—that correlate with impaired sperm function and fertility potential. The integration of proteomic and metabolomic data provides a comprehensive molecular fingerprint of varicocele-induced infertility, facilitating the identification of novel biomarkers for early diagnosis and the development of personalized therapeutic interventions. Conclusions: Advances in proteomics and metabolomics have significantly enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying varicocele-associated male infertility. These “omics” technologies hold great promise for improving diagnostic accuracy and personalizing treatment, ultimately leading to better outcomes for affected men. Future large-scale clinical trials and validations are essential to confirm these biomarkers and facilitate their integration into routine clinical practice.