bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association between the First Cry and Clinical Outcomes in CDH Neonates: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Takeuchi Yuki , Nomura Akiyoshi , Yamoto Masaya , Ohfuji Satoko , Fujii Shunsuke , Yoshimoto Seiji , Funakoshi Toru , Shinkai Masato , Urushihara Naoto , Yokoi Akiko
Published: June 2023

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a life-threatening condition characterized by the herniation of abdominal organs into the thorax, resulting in hypoplastic lungs and pulmonary hypertension. The impact of the first cry, a crucial event for lung transition during birth, on CDH patients remains unclear. This study investigated the impact of the first cry during birth on CDH patient survival, along with other prognosis factors. A multi-institutional retrospective study assessed CDH patient characteristics and survival rates by analyzing factors including the first cry, disease severity, birth weight, Apgar scores, oxygenation index (OI) and surgical closure. Among the CDH patients in the study, a positive first cry was linked to 100% survival, regardless of disease severity (p < 0.001). Notably, the presence of a positive first cry did not significantly affect survival rates in patients with worse prognostic factors, such as low birth weight (<2500 g), high CDH severity, low Apgar scores (1 min ≤ 4), high best OI within 24 h after birth (≥8), or those who underwent patch closure. Furthermore, no significant association was found between the first cry and the use of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). In conclusion, this study suggests that the first cry may not have a negative impact on the prognosis of CDH patients and could potentially have a positive effect.
Design of an Ultra-Thick Film and Its Friction and Wear Performance under Different Working Conditions
Authors: Guo Dong , Zhang Shuling , Wu Shuaizheng , Huang Tenglong , Ma Xinghua , Guo Feng
Published: June 2023

Tantalum (Ta)/Ti/TiN/Ti/diamond-like carbon (DLC) (referred to as TTTD film) and Ta/Ti/TiN/TiCuN/Ti/DLC (referred to as ultra-thick film) films were designed in this study, and the factors affecting the friction and wear properties of DLC films in sodium bicarbonate and lactic acid solutions were analyzed. Moreover, a thin film with a thickness exceeding 50 microns was prepared. Morphology and tribological and mechanical properties were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, friction and wear testing machine, and nanoindentation instrument, respectively. The results show that the presence of a TiCuN interlayer increases the defects in the DLC film and the roughness of surface, reaching a roughness of 0.19 µm. Compared with the TTTD film, the TiCuN interlayer reduces the hardness and increases the residual stress, which is 0.52 Gpa and −6.08 GPa, respectively. The TTTD film has a smooth and dense surface structure and high hardness, causing it to more easily form boundary lubrication. However, the ultra-thick film has lower hardness and rough surface, which cannot effectively form boundary lubrication. Therefore, the friction coefficient of the ultra-thick film is higher than that of the TTTD film under different working conditions. In sodium bicarbonate solution, a double-hydrolysis reaction is more likely to occur, resulting in a higher friction coefficient than in lactic acid solution. The friction coefficient of the TTTD film has a longer running-in period, which is attributed to the oxides generated by the double-hydrolysis reaction and the precipitated sodium bicarbonate crystals. Finally, it was concluded that the surface quality and the internal bond structure of DLC film have a significant impact on the friction and wear properties. This provides a theoretical basis for the design of multilayer structures.
Biodegradable Packaging Materials for Foods Preservation: Sources, Advantages, Limitations, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Panou Andreas , Karabagias Ioannis
Published: June 2023

Biodegradable packaging materials generally comprise a solution to the environmental problem caused by the consecutive use of conventional packaging materials (petroleum-based materials) even though these have a high cost. The monomers resulting from the slow degradation of petroleum-based materials contribute to the pollution of the environment. Biodegradable packaging materials distinguished by high biodegradability and biocompatibility can successfully replace the aforementioned packaging materials and thus solve the environmental problems caused by their use or deposition. Although several of the biodegradable packaging materials present defective properties, mainly mechanical and barrier properties, these are reduced or even eliminated by the addition of various improving additives and by blending them with other biopolymers. Various natural preservatives such as essential oils or other phytochemical extracts can also be incorporated into the biopolymer network to increase its efficacy. This treatment is particularly beneficial since it contributes to the increasing of the shelf life and storability of packaged foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat and its products, poultry, and fish. For all the above reasons, the preferences of consumers and the critical thinking/decisions of the food product manufacturing industries in favor of the potential use of biodegradable packaging materials in foods are increasing more and more. In this context, the present review article addresses the most recently used biodegradable packaging materials for foods preservation by presenting their sources, advantages, limitations, and future perspectives.
Research and Optimization of the Influence of Process Parameters on Ti Alloys Surface Roughness Using Femtosecond Laser Texturing Technology
Authors: Lisjak Dragutin , Jakovljević Suzana , Skenderović Hrvoje
Published: June 2023

One of the major disadvantages of Ti alloys is their poor wear resistance. To increase their wear resistance, before applying a wear-resistant layer, the surface of the substrate should be carefully prepared to ensure the required coating adhesion. Femtosecond laser (fs) texturing is a technology that can be used for surface texturing of Ti alloys because it enables a controlled heat input on a small surface area. The process of laser texturing is very sensitive to the choice of input parameters, such as the number of passes (P) and laser power (W), the choice of which may significantly influence the ultimate surface roughness values (Ra). It cannot be expected that by using the fs process a given default Ra value will be achieved, but it is assumed that the obtained roughness values will be within the given interval. As a result of this research with a significance level of 95% using a design of experiments (DOE) and Monte Carlo simulations, a general linear model of Ra = f (P, W) and optimal input parameter intervals (P and W) of laser texturing were obtained both for the given interval as well as for the default surface roughness value (Ra). Considering that an industrial process is involved here, a process performance capability index (Cpk) has been also defined, which shows that optimal process parameter intervals give roughness values for the given interval or given default roughness value.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Ballistic Resistance of Polyurea-Coated Aluminum Plates under Projectile Impacts
Authors: He Chenglong , Liu Yaqing , Yao Yingkang , Chen Qihui
Published: June 2023

The effects of the spraying thickness and the position on the response of aluminum plates under impact loading were studied. The impact tests and numerical simulation were conducted for the penetration process of polyurea-coated 2024 aluminum plates with tungsten sphere impacts. The results indicate the impact resistance performance is similar at slower impact velocity (500–1000 m/s), and the front (or double-side) coating has a smaller advantage. When the impact velocity rises to 1500 m/s, the back coating has a better energy-absorbing performance. The polyurea perform more efficiently with the increase in the impact velocity because the elastomer has large-scale deformation. By comparing the different thicknesses of the back coating, the residual velocity of the fragment has small changes and the impact energy absorption increased with the increase in the coating thickness. The separated phenomenon is serious in front of the bonding face with shear compression failure. In the back polyurea layer, the stripping area is smaller than the front bonding face, and the petaloid cracking is formed with tensile failure.
Ecological Awareness, Policy Perception, and Green Production Behaviors of Farmers Living in or near Protected Areas
Authors: Lei Shuo , Qiao Qin , Gao Xinting , Feng Ji , Wen Yali , Han Yongwei
Published: June 2023

Research highlights: Ecological policies must balance ecosystem protection by promoting the sustainable livelihoods of farmers living in or near protected areas; however, the intrinsic motivations of farmers to adopt green production behaviors (GPBs) are poorly understood. Background and objectives: We explored how ecological policies affect the GPBs of farmers in agroforestry. Materials and methods: We conducted questionnaires of farmers in 11 counties of Sichuan Province, China, with abundant protected areas and large-scale agroforestry, after which a structural equation model of farmers’ ecological awareness, policy perception, and GPBs was constructed. Results: (1) Ecological policies can stimulate farmers’ GPBs by improving their ecological awareness, creating positive subjective norms, and inducing the “herd effect”. Increases in protection intensity and scope amplify the pressures on farmers to maintain more than long-term policy consistency. (2) Green production is more time-consuming, laborious, expensive, and difficult to learn compared with traditional production methods, which have somewhat limited GPBs adoption. (3) In the rural “acquaintance society”, information and communication from others have a substantial impact on farmers’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors; thus, positive subjective norms from formal and informal channels could promote GPB adoption. Conclusions: Future policies should prioritize environmental education over environmental publicity by helping farmers understand the long-term relationship between ecological protection and economic development, teaching individual environmental responsibility, enhancing positive feedback to farmers who adopt GPBs, actively exploring mechanisms for realizing the value of ecological products, and improving farmers’ management skills and learning ability.
The Lateral Growth of Branches into Small Canopy Gaps: Implications for Competition between Canopy Trees
Authors: Hossain Shaik M. , Olson Matthew G.
Published: June 2023

Much research in forest ecology has been devoted to examining the effect of gap formation on regeneration dynamics. However, comparatively little research has examined the process of gap closure, in which larger trees bordering the gap grow laterally to exploit available light. Thus, it remains uncertain whether disturbance disrupts or reinforces the competitive hierarchy established among different species and sizes classes. We quantified the lateral growth of three hardwood tree species with differing autecologies both before and after the formation of small gaps created by single-tree selection. Linear mixed-effect models were employed to link lateral growth to species and stem diameter to examine whether gap formation favors intolerant species and small trees in the canopy. Additional models were also developed to examine the relationship of lateral growth with branch length and tree height. Before gap formation, the mid-tolerant yellow birch grew considerably faster than the tolerant sugar maple and American beech. However, yellow birch was less responsive to gap formation (~16%) than sugar maple or beech, whose lateral growth increased by 42% and 39%, respectively. This suggests that gap formation reinforces the competitive dominance of tolerant species. In contrast, gap formation disrupts the competitive dominance of large trees in the canopy, since the lateral growth of small trees increased five times that of large trees. Thus, small silvicultural gaps bordered by small trees may close too quickly to permit the regeneration of mid-tolerant species. Following the release, small trees also grew faster than their larger counterparts, suggesting that lateral growth declines as the cost of reproduction increases with tree size. However, lateral growth did not vary with tree height or branch length, suggesting that lateral growth does not decline due to increasing support costs or hydraulic limitation.
Developments of Computer Vision and Image Processing: Methodologies and Applications
Authors: Reis Manuel J. C. S.
Published: June 2023

The rapid advancement of technology has enabled a vast and ever-growing number of computer applications in real scenarios of our daily life [...]
Indoor Air Quality Sensor Utilization for Unwanted Fire Alarm Improvement in Studio-Type Apartments
Authors: Choi Han-bit , Hwang Euy-hong , Choi Don-mook
Published: June 2023

Smoke detectors play a vital role in evacuation and safety during fire incidents, as they directly contribute to the reliability and accuracy of firefighting systems. However, if not installed properly, smoke detectors can trigger unwanted fire alarms (UWFAs), particularly in studio-type apartments. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a method for reducing UWFAs by addressing the challenges posed by cooking by-products in such environments. The proposed algorithm was validated through tests, considering relevant literature and standards, and utilizing indoor air quality sensors. Verification tests were conducted to enhance the accuracy of the algorithm. Based on the experimental results, cutoff values of 5 ppm for CO and 7000 μg/m3 for PM10.0 were proposed as criteria for identifying UWFAs caused by cooking by-products.
Performance-Based Fire-Protection Design of Public Amenities with Restrained Personnel Activities
Authors: Jia Xuejun , Wang Yongsheng , Chen Jingtao , Fang Ziqiang , Xia Kang , Wang He
Published: June 2023

In this paper, performance-based fire-protection design is used for the fire-safety design of public amenities with restrained personnel activities. In these places, tourists’ activities are constrained in a limited space such as cockpit moving along the track. Since it is another typical scenario of fire-protection problem that cannot fully comply with the current mandatory codes and regulations, simulation analysis is used in order to ensure that such fire scenario could achieve performance objectives as expected. Firstly, corresponding fire-protection performance objectives, strategies and simplified evaluation criteria are brought forward in this paper. Then, through simulating the smoke flow in the fire using the computational fluid dynamics software FDS, the effectiveness of the smoke control strategy is verified. Meanwhile, the escaping environments of these fire scenes are analyzed. Further, the personnel evacuation simulation software (Pathfinder) is resorted to simulate the personnel emergency evacuation. The efficiency and the total time that consumed are obtained. Finally, by analyzing the similarities and differences of evacuation under different fire scenes, the fire and smoke spread in the riding area can be effectively controlled, and a safe evacuation environment can be provided for the evacuation of tourists.
Understanding the Effects of Smart-Speaker-Based Surveys on Panelist Experience in Immersive Consumer Testing
Authors: Soldavini Ashley M. , Diaz Hamza , Ennis John M. , Simons Christopher T.
Published: June 2023

Utilizing immersive technologies to reintroduce the environmental context (i.e., visual, auditory, and olfactory cues) in sensory testing has been one area of research for improving panelist engagement. The current study sought to understand whether pairing smart-speaker questionnaires in immersive spaces could positively affect the panelist experience through enhanced ecological validity. To this end, subjects performed an immersive consumer test in which responses were collected using a traditional computer-based survey, a smart-speaker approach incorporating a direct translation of the computer questionnaire into a verbal survey requiring numeric responses, and an optimized smart-speaker survey with alternative question formatting requiring spoken word-based responses. After testing, participants answered the Engagement Questionnaire (EQ) to assess participant engagement during the test, and the System Usability Scale (SUS) survey to understand the ease, and potential adoption, of using the various survey technologies in the study. Results indicated that the traditional computer-based survey was the most engaging (p < 0.001) and usable (p < 0.001), with no differences found between the two smart-speaker surveys (p = 0.803 and p = 0.577, respectively). This suggests that the proposed optimizations for the smart-speaker surveys were not robust enough to influence engagement and usability, and further research is needed to enhance their conversational capabilities.
Probabilistic Machine Learning Methods for Fractional Brownian Motion Time Series Forecasting
Authors: Kirichenko Lyudmyla , Lavrynenko Roman
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the capabilities of machine learning for the probabilistic forecasting of fractional Brownian motion (fBm). The focus is on predicting the probability of the value of an fBm time series exceeding a certain threshold after a specific number of time steps, given only the knowledge of its Hurst exponent. The study aims to determine if the self-similarity property is preserved in a forecasting time series and which machine learning algorithms are the most effective. Two types of forecasting methods are investigated: methods with a predefined distribution shape and those without. The results show that the self-similar properties of the fBm time series can be reliably reproduced in the continuations of the time series predicted by machine learning methods. The study also provides an experimental comparison of various probabilistic forecasting methods and their potential applications in the analysis and modeling of fractal time series.
Price and Quantity Competition under Vertical Pricing
Authors: Basak Debasmita
Published: June 2023

We consider a vertically related market where one quantity-setting and another price-setting downstream firm negotiate the terms of a two-part tariff contract with an upstream input supplier. In contrast to the traditional belief, we show that the price-setting firm produces a higher output and earns a higher profit than the quantity-setting firm when bargaining is decentralised. Additionally, both firms produce the same output, whereas the profit is higher under the price-setting firm than the quantity-setting firm when bargaining is centralised.
Expression Profiling of the Slow Rusting Resistance Genes Lr34/Yr18 and Lr67/Yr46 in Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Associated miRNAs Patterns
Authors: Spychała Julia , Tomkowiak Agnieszka , Noweiska Aleksandra , Bobrowska Roksana , Bocianowski Jan , Książkiewicz Michał , Sobiech Aleksandra , Kwiatek Michał Tomasz
Published: June 2023

The main efforts in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) breeding focus on yield, grain quality, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. One of the major threats affecting global wheat cultivation and causing significant crop production losses are rust diseases, including leaf rust caused by a biotrophic fungus Puccinia triticina Eriks. Genetically determined resistance to leaf rust has been characterized in young plants (seedling resistance) as well as in plants at the adult plant stage. At the seedling stage, resistance is controlled vertically by major R genes, conferring a race-specific response that is highly effective but usually short-lived due to the rapid evolution of potentially virulent fungi. In mature plants, horizontal adult plant resistance (APR) was described, which provides long-term protection against multiple races of pathogens. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying the function of APR genes would enable the development of new strategies for resistance breeding in wheat. Therefore, in the present study we focused on early transcriptomic responses of two major wheat APR genes, Lr34 and Lr67, and three complementary miRNAs, tae-miR9653b, tae-miR9773 and tae-miR9677b, to inoculation with P. triticina. Plant material consisted of five wheat reference varieties, Artigas, NP846, Glenlea, Lerma Rojo and TX89D6435, containing the Lr34/Yr18 and Lr67/Yr46 resistance genes. Biotic stress was induced by inoculation with fungal spores under controlled conditions in a phytotron. Plant material consisted of leaf tissue sampled before inoculation as well as 6, 12, 24 and 48 h postinoculation (hpi). The APR gene expression was quantified using real-time PCR with two reference genes, whereas miRNA was quantified using droplet digital PCR. This paper describes the resistance response of APR genes to inoculation with races of leaf rust-causing fungi that occur in central Europe. The study revealed high variability of expression profiles between varieties and time-points, with the prevalence of downregulation for APR genes and upregulation for miRNAs during the development of an early defense response. Nevertheless, despite the downregulation initially observed, the expression of Lr34 and Lr67 genes in studied cultivars was significantly higher than in a control line carrying wild (susceptible) alleles.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treatment in Patients Identified by Newborn Screening—A Systematic Review
Authors: Aragon-Gawinska Karolina , Mouraux Charlotte , Dangouloff Tamara , Servais Laurent
Published: June 2023

Background: In spinal muscular atrophy, clinical trial results indicated that disease-modifying treatments are highly effective when given prior to symptom onset, which has prompted newborn screening programs in growing number of countries. However, prognosis of those patients cannot be inferred from clinical trials conducted in presymptomatic individuals, as in some cases disease presents very early. Methods: we conducted a systematic review of articles published up to January 2023. Results: Among 35 patients with three SMN2 copies treated before 42 days of age and followed-up for at least 18 months, all but one achieved autonomous ambulation. Of 41 patients with two SMN2 copies, who were non-symptomatic at treatment initiation, all achieved a sitting position independently and 31 were able to walk. Of 16 patients with two SMN2 copies followed-up for at least 18 months who presented with symptoms at treatment onset, 3 achieved the walking milestone and all but one were able to sit without support. Conclusions: evaluation of data from 18 publications indicates that the results of early treatment depend on the number of SMN2 copies and the initial neurological status of the patient.
Synthesis, Structure and Antimicrobial Activity of New Co(II) Complex with bis-Morpholino/Benzoimidazole-s-Triazine Ligand
Authors: Soliman Saied M. , Fathalla Eman M. , Sharaf Mona M. , El-Faham Ayman , Barakat Assem , Haukka Matti , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Woollins John Derek , Abu-Youssef Morsy A. M.
Published: June 2023

A new Co(II) perchlorate complex of the bis-morpholino/benzoimidazole-s-triazine ligand, 4,4′-(6-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-1-yl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diyl)dimorpholine (BMBIT), was synthesized and characterized. The structure of the new Co(II) complex was approved to be [Co(BMBIT)2(H2O)4](ClO4)2*H2O using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The Co(II) complex was found crystallized in the monoclinic crystal system and P21/c space group. The unit cell parameters are a = 22.21971(11) Å, b = 8.86743(4) Å, c = 24.38673(12) Å and β = 113.4401(6)°. This heteroleptic complex has distorted octahedral coordination geometry with two monodenatate BMBIT ligand units via the benzoimidazole N-atom and four water molecules as monodentate ligands. The hydration water and perchlorate ions participated significantly in the supramolecular structure of the [Co(BMBIT)2(H2O)4](ClO4)2*H2O complex. Analysis of dnorm map and a fingerprint plot indicated the importance of O···H, N···H, C···H, C···O, C···N and H···H contacts. Their percentages are 27.5, 7.9, 14.0, 0.9, 2.8 and 43.5%, respectively. The sensitivity of some harmful microbes towards the studied compounds was investigated. The Co(II) complex has good antifungal activity compared to the free BMBIT which has no antifungal activity. The Co(II) complex has good activity against B. subtilis, S. aureus, P. vulgaris and E. coli while the free BMBIT ligand has limited activity only towards B. subtilis and P. vulgaris. Hence, the [Co(BMBIT)2(H2O)4](ClO4)2*H2O complex has broad spectrum antimicrobial action compared to the free BMBIT ligand.
Effects of Temperature and Density on House Cricket Survival and Growth and on the Prevalence of Acheta Domesticus Densovirus
Authors: Takacs Jozsef , Bryon Astrid , Jensen Annette B. , van Loon Joop J. A. van , Ros Vera I. D.
Published: June 2023

The house cricket, Acheta domesticus, is a commonly reared insect for food and feed purposes. In 1977, a report described a colony collapse, which was caused by the single-stranded DNA virus Acheta domesticus densovirus (AdDV). Currently, there are no confirmed A. domesticus colonies free of AdDV, and viral disease outbreaks are a continuous threat to A. domesticus mass rearing. Correlations between cricket rearing density or temperature and AdDV abundance have been hypothesized, but experimental evidence is lacking. Optimised rearing conditions, including temperature and density, are key to cost-effective cricket production. In this study, house crickets were subjected to different combinations of rearing density (10, 20, 40 crickets per box) and temperature (25, 30, 35 °C) to study the effect on cricket survival, biomass, and AdDV abundance. Rearing temperature affected had a minor effect on survival, which ranged between 80 and 83%. Total cricket biomass increased with higher temperatures and higher densities. Viral abundance in crickets at the end of the rearing period was variable; however, high rearing density seemed to result in higher AdDV abundance. At 35 °C, a temperature considered suboptimal for house cricket production, viral abundance tended to be lower than at 25 or 30 °C.
Method for Classifying Schizophrenia Patients Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Soria Carmen , Arroyo Yoel , Torres Ana María , Redondo Miguel Ángel , Basar Christoph , Mateo Jorge
Published: June 2023

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects individuals in various ways, particularly in their ability to perceive, process, and respond to stimuli. This condition has a significant impact on a considerable number of individuals. Consequently, the study, analysis, and characterization of this pathology are of paramount importance. Electroencephalography (EEG) is frequently utilized in the diagnostic assessment of various brain disorders due to its non-intrusiveness, excellent resolution and ease of placement. However, the manual analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings can be a complex and time-consuming task for healthcare professionals. Therefore, the automated analysis of EEG recordings can help alleviate the burden on doctors and provide valuable insights to support clinical diagnosis. Many studies are working along these lines. In this research paper, the authors propose a machine learning (ML) method based on the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) algorithm for analyzing EEG signals. The study compares the performance of the proposed XGB-based approach with four other supervised ML systems. According to the results, the proposed XGB-based method demonstrates superior performance, with an AUC value of 0.94 and an accuracy value of 0.94, surpassing the other compared methods. The implemented system exhibits high accuracy and robustness in accurately classifying schizophrenia patients based on EEG recordings. This method holds the potential to be implemented as a valuable complementary tool for clinical use in hospitals, supporting clinicians in their clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia.
The Role of Low-Dose Oral Methotrexate in Increasing Anti-TNF Drug Levels and Reducing Immunogenicity in IBD
Authors: Demase Kathryn , Monitto Cassandra K. , Little Robert D. , Sparrow Miles P.
Published: June 2023

Concomitant immunomodulation is utilised in combination with anti-TNF therapy for IBD primarily to increase drug levels and prevent anti-drug antibody formation. Whilst thiopurines have traditionally been the immunomodulator of choice in IBD populations, there are concerns regarding the long-term safety of the prolonged use of these agents: particularly an association with lymphoproliferative disorders. Given this, we have explored the existing literature on the use of low-dose oral methotrexate as an alternative immunomodulator for this indication. Although there is a lack of data directly comparing the efficacies of methotrexate and thiopurines as concomitant immunomodulators, the available literature supports the use of methotrexate in improving the pharmacokinetics of anti-TNF agents. Furthermore, low-dose oral methotrexate regimens appear to have comparable efficacies to higher-dose parenteral administration and are better tolerated. We suggest that clinicians should consider the use of low-dose oral methotrexate as an alternative to thiopurines when the primary purpose of concomitant immunomodulation is to improve anti-TNF pharmacokinetics.
Clinical Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes in Bone Regeneration
Authors: Torrecillas-Baena Bárbara , Pulido-Escribano Victoria , Dorado Gabriel , Gálvez-Moreno María Ángeles , Camacho-Cardenosa Marta , Casado-Díaz Antonio
Published: June 2023

Bone metabolism is regulated by osteoblasts, osteoclasts, osteocytes, and stem cells. Pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, and traumatic fractures require effective treatments that favor bone formation and regeneration. Among these, cell therapy based on mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) has been proposed. MSC are osteoprogenitors, but their regenerative activity depends in part on their paracrine properties. These are mainly mediated by extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion. EV modulates regenerative processes such as inflammation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Thus, MSC-EV are currently an important tool for the development of cell-free therapies in regenerative medicine. This review describes the current knowledge of the effects of MSC-EV in the different phases of bone regeneration. MSC-EV has been used by intravenous injection, directly or in combination with different types of biomaterials, in preclinical models of bone diseases. They have shown great clinical potential in regenerative medicine applied to bone. These findings should be confirmed through standardization of protocols, a better understanding of the mechanisms of action, and appropriate clinical trials. All that will allow the translation of such cell-free therapy to human clinic applications.
Anxiety, Stress Perception, and Coping Strategies among Students with COVID-19 Exposure
Authors: Shpakou Andrei , Krajewska-Kułak Elżbieta , Cybulski Mateusz , Sokołowska Dorota , Andryszczyk Małgorzata , Kleszczewska Ewa , Loginovich Yelena , Owoc Jakub , Tarasov Andrei , Skoblina Natalia , Kowalczuk Krystyna
Published: June 2023

Background: Studying anxiety, stress, and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial to mitigate the negative effects associated with infection risk and disease consequences. Objective: This study aimed to investigate anxiety levels, stress perception, and coping strategies in relation to the presence of illness. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted anonymously among 3950 university students from Poland (1822), Lithuania (232), and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad (1896). Due to the nearly identical application of anti-epidemic measures, the respondents were treated as a unified group. The State-trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10), and mini-COPE scale questionnaires were used. Statistical analysis included the Shapiro–Wilk test to check normality, the Mann–Whitney U test for comparative analysis between groups, the Pearson χ2 test for categorical data, and Spearman coefficients for correlations between variables. Results: A significant proportion of young adults in the community exhibited symptoms of anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the 1212 men and 2738 women surveyed, 348 (28.7%) and 1020 (37.3%) individuals, respectively, were diagnosed with COVID-19 according to clinical protocols. Prolonged disease duration and more severe residual symptoms correlated with higher self-reported anxiety levels. Conclusions: The level of anxiety and stress varied depending on the duration of the disease, significantly impacting the choice of coping strategies. Overall, students displayed a proactive approach to coping activities but tended to postpone important decisions. Seeking social support was a prevalent coping mechanism, although respondents who had COVID-19 showed higher levels of concern for their own emotions, a tendency to discharge emotions through alcohol or other substances (male), and a greater reliance on religion (female). The study provides data that may be useful in developing educational and health policies focused on the mental well-being of university students and potentially other social groups.
Efficacy of Pegylated Hyaluronic Acid Filler Enriched with Calcium Hydroxyapatite: A 24-Week Post-Market, Observational, Prospective, Open-Label, Single-Center Study
Authors: Zerbinati Nicola , D’Este Edoardo , De Silvestri Annalisa , Zullino Marco , Rabbiosi Giulio , Guida Stefania , Kubik Paweł , Stabile Giorgio , Mocchi Roberto , Barlusconi Chiara , Sommatis Sabrina , Cipolla Giovanna
Published: June 2023

Recently, thanks to the greater discovery of the mechanisms of facial aging, an alternative to invasive plastic surgery has found space with less invasive aesthetic procedures, also based on an increasingly pressing request. We are specifically referring to dermal filler injection into or under the skin which leads to immediate rejuvenation and aesthetic improvements. In this study, we wanted to analyze the results obtained through the use of NEAUVIA Organic Stimulate, particularly with regard to its effectiveness, which is a cross-linked polymeric hydrogel, containing stabilized sodium hyaluronate 26 mg/mL and calcium hydroxyapatite (1%), glycine and L-proline in buffer pyrogen-free water, in its main indication, namely, the temporary correction of congenital and acquired deficiencies of the soft tissues of the face by intradermal injection. Initially, 70 patients were enrolled, but 10 did not complete the study due to non-observance of the investigation rules, so they were excluded from the protocol. The collected data demonstrate an efficient mechanical effect of the pegylated polymeric acid matrix enriched with low concertation of calcium hydroxyapatite and in accordance with other evidence in vitro and in vivo, and the mechanical support of the interstitial connective space improves the homestays of the anatomical layer rebalancing the physiological activity of the dermis cells.
4D Printing in Biomedical Engineering: Advancements, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Ramezani Maziar , Mohd Ripin Zaidi
Published: June 2023

4D printing has emerged as a transformative technology in the field of biomedical engineering, offering the potential for dynamic, stimuli-responsive structures with applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical devices, and diagnostics. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements, challenges, and future directions of 4D printing in biomedical engineering. We discuss the development of smart materials, including stimuli-responsive polymers, shape-memory materials, and bio-inks, as well as the various fabrication techniques employed, such as direct-write assembly, stereolithography, and multi-material jetting. Despite the promising advances, several challenges persist, including material limitations related to biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and degradation rates; fabrication complexities arising from the integration of multiple materials, resolution and accuracy, and scalability; and regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding safety and efficacy. As we explore the future directions for 4D printing, we emphasise the need for material innovations, fabrication advancements, and emerging applications such as personalised medicine, nanomedicine, and bioelectronic devices. Interdisciplinary research and collaboration between material science, biology, engineering, regulatory agencies, and industry are essential for overcoming challenges and realising the full potential of 4D printing in the biomedical engineering landscape.
Impact of Gas Metal Arc Welding Parameters on Bead Geometry and Material Distortion of AISI 316L
Authors: Khrais Samir , Al Hmoud Hadeel , Abdel Al Ahmad , Darabseh Tariq
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the impact of gas metal arc welding (GMAW) parameters on the bead geometry and material distortion of AISI 316L. Three parameters—arc current in ampere (A), filler feed rate (m/min), and gas composition—were modified at varying levels in order to examine their effects. This study sheds new light on MAG welding lines’ physical properties and behavior and highlights the influence of quaternary shielding gas compositions. Taguchi analysis, which includes signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and analysis of variance (ANOVA), was utilized to analyze and optimize the welding parameters. This study found that arc current significantly impacts bead geometry, while the shielding gas composition has the most significant effect on angular distortion and transverse shrinkage. The optimal welding parameters for achieving the best bead height and width are 160 A, 3.5 m/min, G1, with a bead height of 4.89 mm, and 120 A, 3 m/min, G2, with a bead width of 6.69 mm. Moreover, the optimal welding parameters for minimizing both angular distortion and transverse shrinkage are 120 A, 4 m/min, G2, resulting in an angular distortion value of 0.0042° and a transverse shrinkage value of 0.0254 mm. This research has practical implications for improving welding performance and can contribute to the advancement of MAG and MIG welding in manufacturing applications.
Secondary Metabolites with Herbicidal and Antifungal Activities from Marine-Derived Fungus Alternaria iridiaustralis
Authors: Fan Jinqing , Guo Fangfang , Zhao Chen , Li Hong , Qu Tianli , Xiao Lin , Du Fengyu
Published: June 2023

Weed and soil-borne pathogens could synergistically affect vegetable growth and result in serious losses. Investigation of agricultural bioactive metabolites from marine-derived fungus Alternaria iridiaustralis yielded polyketides (1–4), benzopyrones (5–7), meroterpenoid derivatives (8), and alkaloid (9). The structures and absolute configurations of new 1, 3, 5–6, and 8 were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, as well as comparisons between measured and calculated ECD and 13C NMR data. Compounds 1–4, 6, and 9 showed herbicidal potentials against the radicle growth of Echinochloa crusgalli seedlings. Especially 9 exhibited inhibition rates over 90% at concentrations of 20 and 40 μg/mL, even better than the commonly used chemical herbicide acetochlor. Furthermore, 9 also performed a wide herbicidal spectrum against the malignant weeds Digitaria sanguinalis, Portulaca oleracea, and Descurainia sophia. Compounds 5–8 showed antifungal activities against carbendazim-resistant strains of Botrytis cinerea, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 32 to 128 μg/mL, which were better than those of carbendazim (MIC = 256 μg/mL). Especially 6 exhibited integrated effects against both soil-borne pathogens and weed. Overall, marine-derived fungus A. iridiaustralis, which produces herbicidal and antifungal metabolites 1–9, showed the potential for use as a microbial pesticide to control both weed and soil-borne pathogens.
The Need to Set up a Biobank Dedicated to Lymphoid Malignancies: Experience of a Single Center (Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, University Côte d’Azur, Nice, France)
Authors: Bontoux Christophe , Marcovich Aubiège , Goffinet Samantha , Pesce Florian , Tanga Virginie , Bohly Doriane , Salah Myriam , Washetine Kevin , Messaoudi Zeineb , Felix Jean-Marc , Bonnetaud Christelle , Wang Lihui , Menon Geetha , Berthet Jean-Philippe , Cohen Charlotte , Benzaquen Jonathan , Marquette Charles-Hugo , Lassalle Sandra , Long-Mira Elodie , Hofman Veronique , Xerri Luc , Ilié Marius , Hofman Paul
Published: June 2023

Several therapies to improve the management of lymphoma are currently being investigated, necessitating the development of new biomarkers. However, this requires high-quality and clinically annotated biological material. Therefore, we established a lymphoma biobank including all available biological material (tissue specimens and matched biological resources) along with associated clinical data for lymphoma patients diagnosed, according to the WHO classification, between 2005 and 2022 in the Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Nice, France. We retrospectively included selected cases in a new collection at the Côte d’Azur Biobank, which contains 2150 samples from 363 cases (351 patients). The male/female ratio was 1.3, and the median age at diagnosis was 58 years. The most common lymphoma types were classical Hodgkin lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and extra-nodal marginal zone lymphoma of MALT tissue. The main sites of lymphoma were the mediastinum, lymph node, Waldeyer’s ring, and lung. The Côte d’Azur Biobank is ISO 9001 and ISO 20387 certified and aims to provide high quality and diverse biological material to support translational research projects into lymphoma. The clinico-pathological data generated by this collection should aid the development of new biomarkers to enhance the survival of patients with lymphoid malignancies.
Fight the Fire: Association of Cytokine Genomic Markers and Suicidal Behavior May Pave the Way for Future Therapies
Authors: Gonda Xenia , Serafini Gianluca , Dome Peter
Published: June 2023

The fight against suicide is highly challenging as it may be one of the most complex and, at the same time, most threatening among all psychiatric phenomena. In spite of its huge impact, and despite advances in neurobiology research, understanding and predicting suicide remains a major challenge for both researchers and clinicians. To be able to identify those patients who are likely to engage in suicidal behaviors and identify suicide risk in a reliable and timely manner, we need more specific, novel biological and genetic markers/indicators to develop better screening and diagnostic methods, and in the next step to utilize these molecules as intervention targets. One such potential novel approach is offered by our increasing understanding of the involvement of neuroinflammation based on multiple observations of increased proinflammatory states underlying various psychiatric disorders, including suicidal behavior. The present paper overviews our existing understanding of the association between suicide and inflammation, including peripheral and central biomarkers, genetic and genomic markers, and our current knowledge of intervention in suicide risk using treatments influencing inflammation; also overviewing the next steps to be taken and obstacles to be overcome before we can utilize cytokines in the treatment of suicidal behavior.
Combined Intermediate Cervical Plexus and Costoclavicular Block for Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: A Prospective Feasibility Study
Authors: Han Jeong Uk , Yang Chunwoo , Song Jang-Ho , Park Jisung , Choo Hyeonju , Lee Taeil
Published: June 2023

A combined cervical plexus and costoclavicular block provides effective shoulder analgesia without the risk of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis. However, whether this technique can also provide effective anesthesia for shoulder surgery remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the feasibility and adverse effects of combined blocks in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Fifty patients scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder surgery were prospectively enrolled. Intermediate cervical plexus (5 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine) and costoclavicular (20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine) blocks were administered under ultrasound guidance. The block procedure time, needle pass, patient discomfort, anesthesia quality, onset time, postoperative analgesia quality, adverse events, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Surgical and block success were achieved in 45 (90%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 78–97%) and 44 (88%; 95% CI, 76–95%) patients, respectively. Three patients required local anesthetic supplementation, and two required general anesthesia. The incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis was 12.0% (95% CI, 4.5–24.3%). Postoperative pain control was effective for the first 24 h postoperative. Neurological deficits were not observed. The patients reported a high level of satisfaction. This study revealed that a combined cervical plexus and costoclavicular block provided effective surgical anesthesia for arthroscopic shoulder surgery with a 12% incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis. Further randomized studies comparing this technique with interscalene block are required.
Does Age Affect the Rate of Spinal Nerve Injury after Selective Neck Dissection? Age as a Prognostic Factor of Spinal Nerve Injury after Selective Neck Dissection
Authors: Crimi Salvatore , Battaglia Salvatore , Maugeri Claudia , Mirabella Sergio , Fiorillo Luca , Cervino Gabriele , Bianchi Alberto
Published: June 2023

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate whether age is a significant risk factor for spinal nerve injury following selective neck dissection (SND) in patients with head and neck cancer. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients who had undergone SND for head and neck cancer at a tertiary hospital between 2020 and 2022. The primary outcome was the incidence of spinal nerve injury after SND. The secondary outcomes included the types and severity of spinal nerve injury and the impact of age on these outcomes. Results: A total of 78 patients were included in the study and subdivided into two groups. Two shoulder-specific questionnaires (the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and the Shoulder Disability Questionnaire (SDQ)) were administered to assess shoulder morbidity postoperatively. Twelve patients showed shoulder impairment following surgery. We divided the sample into two age-based groups; the older group showed a higher rate of SAN injury and the younger group showed a lower rate of improvement over time. Conclusion: This study suggests that age is a significant risk factor for spinal nerve injury following SND in patients with head and neck cancer. Older patients are more likely to experience spinal nerve injury after SND than younger patients. The findings of this study may help in the development of strategies to prevent spinal nerve injury in older patients undergoing SND for head and neck cancer.