bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Hotspots and Frontier Prospects in the Field of Agroforestry Picking Robots in China—Cite Space Bibliographic Analysis
Authors: Jia Na , Zhang Hangyu , Gao Haoshu , Liu Jiuqing
Published: September 2023

The research on picking robots is vital to the transformation and upgrading of the agroforestry industry and the revitalization and development of rural areas. This paper examines the research field of agroforestry picking robots by meticulously combing and analyzing 623 CNKI and 648 WoS core literature from 2004 to 2022 selected in China Knowledge Network (CNKI) and Web of Science (WoS) databases using Cite Space 6.1R3 software. The analysis includes the quantity of literature, issuing countries, organizations, keywords, keyword clustering, emerging terms, etc. On this basis, research hotspots in the field of agroforestry picking robots are identified, such as research based on the identification of picking targets, the control of motion planning, structural design and simulation, and the planning of walking paths. This paper analyzes and discusses these research hotspots and main lines, providing a reference for future studies in this field. This bibliometric approach can provide comprehensive literature information for research in related fields, as well as identify and summarize the major research hotspots in a shorter time, allowing new researchers to enter the field more quickly and obtain more valuable scientific information.
Strategies for Recovery, Purification and Quantification of Torularhodin Produced by Rhodotorula mucilaginosa Using Different Carbon Sources
Authors: Zeng Yi , Wang Rui , Liang Jiaqian , Zhang Huixin , Yi Junjie , Liu Zhijia
Published: September 2023

Torularhodin is a fungus-derived carotenoid, and the lack of downstream processing of torularhodin is still a challenge for its large-scale production. To support the industrial production of torularhodin, this work initially evaluated the efficiency of carotenoid release from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa using thermal acid treatment, saponification and ultrasound-assisted enzymatic lysis. Based on the polarity, torularhodin was then purified using methanol/acetone/hexane (2/2/1, v/v/v) solution eluting from a silica cartridge. Thermal acid treatment was considered the most appropriate method for total carotenoid release and torularhodin recovery. The highest carotenoid content was 121.3 ± 7.0 μg/g dry cell weight and 63.0 ± 6.1% of torularhodin (50.5 ± 3.0 μg/g dry cell weight in total) was recovered after purification. To fast quantify the content of torularhodin extracted from yeast, the absorption coefficient (E1cm1% = 3342) of torularhodin dissolved in chloroform was assayed. With the developed strategy for torularhodin recovery, purification and quantification, the potential of this yeast to produce torularhodin using xylose and glycerol was further evaluated. It was found that carbon sources may influence the proportion of carotenoids in this yeast, but torularhodin was still the dominant pigment. The results obtained in this study identified the feasibility of sustainable production of torularhodin from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa with high efficiency and purity.
Investigating Neuron Degeneration in Huntington’s Disease Using RNA-Seq Based Transcriptome Study
Authors: Sneha Nela Pragathi , Dharshini S. Akila Parvathy , Taguchi Y.-h. , Gromiha M. Michael
Published: September 2023

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused due to a CAG repeat expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. The primary symptoms of HD include motor dysfunction such as chorea, dystonia, and involuntary movements. The primary motor cortex (BA4) is the key brain region responsible for executing motor/movement activities. Investigating patient and control samples from the BA4 region will provide a deeper understanding of the genes responsible for neuron degeneration and help to identify potential markers. Previous studies have focused on overall differential gene expression and associated biological functions. In this study, we illustrate the relationship between variants and differentially expressed genes/transcripts. We identified variants and their associated genes along with the quantification of genes and transcripts. We also predicted the effect of variants on various regulatory activities and found that many variants are regulating gene expression. Variants affecting miRNA and its targets are also highlighted in our study. Co-expression network studies revealed the role of novel genes. Function interaction network analysis unveiled the importance of genes involved in vesicle-mediated transport. From this unified approach, we propose that genes expressed in immune cells are crucial for reducing neuron death in HD.
Ochotopteris—An Endemic Fern of the Mid-Cretaceous Arctic
Authors: Herman Alexei B. , Domogatskaya Ksenia V.
Published: September 2023

Three species belonging to the fern genus Ochotopteris E. Lebedev, including the new species O. lebedevii Herman et Domogatskaya, are revised, described and illustrated in this paper. The fossils come from Albian, Cenomanian, Turonian and Coniacian beds exposed at seven sites in North-Eastern Asia and Northern Alaska. These sites are located in the Cretaceous Arctic, with their palaeolatitudes ranging from 60° N to 80° N. The high endemism characteristic of the mid-Cretaceous Arctic flora is most probably due to adaptations in the globally distinctive Arctic conditions: the unique combination of temperatures, precipitation and the highly seasonal polar light regime. Being an endemic plant of the mid-Cretaceous Arctic, Ochotopteris ferns were adapted to a regional wet temperate to a wet warm temperate palaeoclimate accompanied by marked sunlight seasonality with a prolonged—up to several weeks—winter darkness and continuous summer daylight, also lasting for several weeks. The majority of the mid-Cretaceous Arctic plants were deciduous. Their predominant deciduousness was most probably due to the polar light seasonality: at the end of the growing season, some plants dropped their leaves or leafy shoots, whereas others—including Ochotopteris ferns—died back to rhizome systems.
‘The Swallowed Beloved’: Corporeality and Incorporation in Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book
Authors: West Kristina
Published: September 2023

In keeping with the focus of this special edition of Humanities on the political child, this article builds on investigations into constructions of the child body in literature and society to examine how portrayals of the child body in Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book repeatedly slip under the varying perspectives of the adults; that is, how adult politics are always at play in understandings of children and childhood both within and outside of the text. In taking this approach, this article focuses on two key texts in literary discussions of spectrality, bodies, and signification—Hamlet and ‘Fors’—to consider how the paradoxical child body in Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book is both constructed within the adult perspective and constantly slips from it, and how Gaiman approaches the issue at the heart of this analysis: that of who gets to decide who or what a child is, should be, or can be.
Nutritional Care for Institutionalized Persons with Dementia: An Integrative Review
Authors: Moreno-Fergusson María Elisa , Caez-Ramírez Gabriela Rabe , Sotelo-Díaz Luz Indira , Sánchez-Herrera Beatriz
Published: September 2023

Background: Older people are at risk of malnutrition, especially when they suffer from cognitive impairment. Guidelines that orient nursing care in this regard need to be updated. The aim of this review is to address the best available evidence on interventions that can benefit nutritional nursing care for institutionalized older adults with dementia. Methods: Integrative review using the Dimensions and Eureka search engines, and the PubMed, Embase, Scielo, CINAHL, and ScienceDirect databases. We searched from the year 2015 through to 2021. We employed the MMAT guidelines for mixed, qualitative, and quantitative studies, and the PRISMA, CASP, and JBI guidelines to value the reviews. Results: A total of 55 studies met the inclusion criteria. The best available evidence to support nutritional nursing care for institutionalized older adults with dementia highlights several aspects related to the assessment and caring interventions that are focused on people with dementia, their caregivers, and their context. Conclusions: Both the assessment and nutritional care interventions for older people with dementia should consider the patient–caregiver dyad as the subject of care and understand the context as a fundamental part of it. The analysis of the context should look further than the immediate environment.
Osteoporosis as the First Sign of Cushing’s Disease in a Thin 16-Year-Old Boy—A Case Report
Authors: Łupińska Anna , Aszkiełowicz Sara , Zieliński Grzegorz , Stawerska Renata , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Cushing’s disease (CD) is an extremely rare diagnosis in children. In this report, we present the case of an almost 16-year-old, short and thin boy with CD, the first symptoms of which were spinal pain and vertebral fractures as a result of osteoporosis. In light of his growth retardation and short stature, the boy underwent diagnostics, which excluded growth hormone (GH) deficiency, hypothyroidism and celiac disease. Finally, based on cortisol profile results, dexamethasone suppression tests and bilateral sampling during catheterization of the inferior petrosal sinuses, CD was diagnosed.
Constipation as a Drug-Related Adverse Effect in Patients with Hyperkalemia: Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate versus Conventional Potassium Binders
Authors: Hida Yuki , Imamura Teruhiko , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Constipation is one of the most serious adverse effects of potassium-lowering agents and decreases patients’ quality of life. Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) is a recently innovated potassium binder intended for patients with hyperkalemia. The impact of SZC on the worsening of constipation, as compared with conventional potassium binders, remains unknown. (2) Methods: Patients with hyperkalemia who continued SZC for over 3 months between July 2020 and May 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Patients who received other conventional potassium binders during the same period were included as a control group. Trends in the doses of anti-constipation agents during the 3-month therapeutic period were compared between the two groups as a surrogate for worsening constipation. (3) Results: A total of 50 patients (median age 74 years, 31 male) were included, consisting of 22 patients with SZC and 28 patients with other conventional potassium binders. All patients had hyperkalemia and chronic kidney disease at baseline. During the 3-month therapeutic period, serum potassium levels decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.05 for both). The number of anti-constipation remained unchanged in the SZC group but tended to increase in the control group (p = 0.56 and p = 0.090, respectively). The total dose change in all anti-constipations was significantly lower in the SZC group than in the control group (p = 0.037). (4) Conclusions: Conventional potassium binders have a tendency to worsen constipation, whereas SZC may have the potential to improve hyperkalemia without worsening constipation. SZC may be recommended, particularly in elderly patients with ongoing or high-risk constipation.
A Relation between Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Pregnancy and Delivering Small for Gestational Age Infant—A Systematic Review
Authors: Grajczyk Alicja , Dżaman Karolina , Czerwaty Katarzyna , Kasperczak Monika , Zgliczyńska Magdalena , Stępień Anna , Kosińska-Kaczyńska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during pregnancy can negatively affect both the mother and the baby. Our main goal is to show whether there is an association between OSA during pregnancy and delivering small for gestational age (SGA) infants. This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 statement using three databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. All databases were last accessed on 1 June 2023. The implemented systematic literature search identified 744 articles. After excluding reviews, meta-analyses, book chapters, case reports, and letters, 47 studies were analyzed, 18 of which finally met the inclusion criteria. The included studies mainly indicate that OSA during pregnancy may not significantly impact SGA, but some of them have shown the existence of this relation. Nevertheless, it is recommended that all pregnant women should be screened for symptoms of OSA and that sleep tests should be performed on those who show signs of it. Detecting and treating OSA early in pregnancy can help reduce the condition’s negative effects. However, more extensive studies are still needed to gather clear evidence on the impact of an OSA diagnosis on mothers and babies.
Revisional Procedures after Sleeve Gastrectomy for Weight Recurrence or Inadequate Weight Loss: An Analysis of the MBSAQIP Database
Authors: Hage Karl , Barajas-Gamboa Juan S. , Romero-Velez Gustavo , Allemang Matthew , Navarrete Salvador , Corcelles Ricard , Rodriguez John , Ghanem Omar M. , Kroh Matthew , Dang Jerry T.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The safety of conversional bariatric procedures after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) for weight recurrence (WR) or inadequate weight loss (IWL) is debated due to limited evidence. Conversion options include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass (SADI), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS). We aimed to compare serious complications and mortality rates between these procedures within 30 days. Methods: Using the 2020 and 2021 MBSAQIP databases, we identified patients who underwent a conversion from SG to RYGB, SADI, or BPD-DS. We performed a multivariable logistic regression to assess predictors of 30-day complications and mortality. Results: Among 7388 patients (77.6% RYGB, 8.7% SADI, 13.7% BPD-DS), those undergoing SADI and BPD-DS had higher preoperative body mass index. Conversion reasons included WR (63.0%) and IWL (37.0%). SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative times (p < 0.001) and higher leak rates (p = 0.001). Serious complications, reoperations, readmissions, and 30-day mortality were similar across groups. Conversion procedure type was not an independent predictor of complications. Conclusion: RYGB was the most performed conversional procedure after SG. The study indicated a similar safety profile for revisional RYGB, SADI, and BPD-DS, with comparable 30-day complications and mortality rates. However, SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative time and higher leak rates.
Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Treatment in Selected Neurological Diseases—One Centre’s Experience Based on the Therapy of 141 Patients
Authors: Lasek-Bal Anetta , Wagner-Kusz Anna , Rogoż Barbara , Cisowska-Babraj Małgorzata , Gajewska Gabriela
Published: September 2023

Background: Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg) are the first-choice drugs for the treatment of certain neuroimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IVIg in patients with selected nervous system diseases. Methods: The study enrolled patients who received IVIg in programmes financed by the National Health Fund in Poland. The status of patients upon inclusion and during treatment was assessed using scales dedicated to specific neurological diseases. Results: The study enrolled 141 patients aged 56.28 ± 14.72 (51.77% female): 21 patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), 65 with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), 30 with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), 12 with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and 13 patients with autoimmune encephalitis (AE). Neurological improvement was found in 14 (66.66%) MG patients (with a reduction of at least three points on the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis Score (QMGS) within 14 days from the completion of the cycle), and in 34 (52.3%) GBS patients (with a reduction of at least one point on the Medical Research Council Scale within 14 days from the completion of the cycle). The parameters with the strongest effect on clinical improvement in MG patients were age [OR 1.033, CI 95% [0.09–1.09], p = 0.049] and baseline QMGS [OR 0.505; CI 95% [0.24–0.87], p = 0.038]. In the majority of CIDP patients (27, 97%) and NMOSD patients (6, 50%), neurological stabilisation was observed (without clinical improvement, defined for CIDP patients as an increase of at least two points on the Lovett Scale after three courses of IVIg were administered, and for NMOSD patients as an increase of at least one point on the Medical Research Council Scale and/or a shift of at least 0.3 logMAR after three courses of treatment). Deep-vein thrombosis was only one serious adverse event in the total group of patients treated with IVIg. Conclusions: The use of IVIg in patients with MG and GBS mostly results in neurological improvement, while in patients with NMOSD and CIDP, it mostly results in disease stabilisation. This could indicate the predominant anti-idiotypic antibody activity of IVIg in acute neuroimmune diseases or during exacerbations in chronic autoimmune diseases. The therapy of AE in comorbid neoplastic disease is burdened with an elevated risk of failure for IVIg. The results of our study confirm the improved safety of IVIg for selected neurological diseases.
Evaluation of the Mycorrhizal Potential of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Rhizosphere Soils in the Figuig Oasis (Southeastern Morocco)
Authors: Gagou Elmostafa , Chakroune Khadija , Abbas Mahmoud , Lamkami Touria , Hakkou Abdelkader
Published: September 2023

Date palm, an important crop in Morocco and many other arid regions around the world, faces significant challenges from wind, water shortages, and salinization, which contribute to vegetation loss and soil degradation in the harsh environmental conditions of oasis ecosystems with low soil fertility. Protecting and regenerating these degraded lands is crucial for sustainable agriculture and improving the dryland ecosystem. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) comprise a vital element in this dynamic within the microflora of the soil rhizosphere. This study evaluated the potential in mycorrhizal soil and identified AMF in date palm rhizospheres in eight locations within the Figuig oasis (southeastern Morocco). This study found that Extension and Zenaga had more mycorrhizal propagules than other locations. Replanted maize (Zea mays L.) in these soils exhibited higher mycorrhization rates (91–93%) compared to that in other locations, with the Lamaiz site registering the lowest rate (39%). The phosphorus content was negatively correlated with the AMF spore frequency, intensity, and density, while a positive correlation was detected between the soil pH and the AMF spore frequency and density. The morphological identification of spores revealed Glomus as the predominant species, along with Acaulospora and Sclerocystis. This study represents an initial step toward the potential application of these fungi in environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture in arid regions.
Talaromyces amestolkiae Infection in an AIDS Patient with Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Wang Li-An , Chuang Yu-Chuan , Yeh Ting-Kuang , Lin Kuan-Pei , Lin Chi-Jan , Liu Po-Yu
Published: September 2023

Concurrent infections caused by multiple fungal pathogens in immunocompromised patients can pose diagnostic and treatment challenges. Here, we presented the first reported case in Taiwan of an AIDS patient who had concurrent infection with Cryptococcus neoformans meningitis and Talaromyces amestolkiae lymphadenopathy. The patient presented with an enlarged inguinal lymph node and was diagnosed with T. amestolkiae lymphadenitis. The species T. amestolkiae was identified using DNA sequencing, which had the capability of differentiating it from other Talaromyces species. The patient was discharged from the hospital following treatment with amphotericin B and subsequent administration of voriconazole. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a suspicion of co-infections and utilizing appropriate diagnostic tools, such as DNA sequencing, to identify possible pathogens. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment for T. amestolkiae and other co-infecting fungal pathogens.
Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Real World Evidence of Care Delivery in AccessHope Data
Authors: Barzi Afsaneh , Kim Angela J. , Liang Crystal K. , West Howard , Wong D. , Wright Carol , Nathwani Nitya , Vasko Catherine M. , Chung Vincent , Rubinson Douglas A. , Sachs Todd
Published: September 2023

Background: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is an aggressive disease and the delivery of comprehensive care to individuals with this cancer is critical to achieve appropriate outcomes. The identification of gaps in care delivery facilitates the design of interventions to optimize care delivery and improve outcomes in this population. Methods: AccessHope™ is a growing organization that connects oncology subspecialists with treating providers through contracts with self-insured employers. Data from 94 pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases (August 2019–December 2022) in the AccessHope dataset were used to describe gaps in care delivery. Results: In all but 6% of cases, the subspecialist provided guideline-concordant recommendations anticipated to improve outcomes. Gaps in care were more pronounced in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer. There was a significant deficiency in germline testing regardless of the stage, with only 59% of cases having completed testing. Only 20% of cases were receiving palliative care or other allied support services. There was no difference in observed care gaps between patients receiving care in the community setting vs. those receiving care in the academic setting. Conclusions: There are significant gaps in the care delivered to patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. A concurrent subspecialist review has the opportunity to identify and address these gaps in a timely manner.
Redesigning Primary Care: The Emergence of Artificial-Intelligence-Driven Symptom Diagnostic Tools
Authors: Wiedermann Christian J. , Mahlknecht Angelika , Piccoliori Giuliano , Engl Adolf
Published: September 2023

Modern healthcare is facing a juxtaposition of increasing patient demands owing to an aging population and a decreasing general practitioner workforce, leading to strained access to primary care. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has emphasized the potential for alternative consultation methods, highlighting opportunities to minimize unnecessary care. This article discusses the role of artificial-intelligence-driven symptom checkers, particularly their efficiency, utility, and challenges in primary care. Based on a study conducted in Italian general practices, insights from both physicians and patients were gathered regarding this emergent technology, highlighting differences in perceived utility, user satisfaction, and potential challenges. While symptom checkers are seen as potential tools for addressing healthcare challenges, concerns regarding their accuracy and the potential for misdiagnosis persist. Patients generally viewed them positively, valuing their ease of use and the empowerment they provide in managing health. However, some general practitioners perceive these tools as challenges to their expertise. This article proposes that artificial-intelligence-based symptom checkers can optimize medical-history taking for the benefit of both general practitioners and patients, with potential enhancements in complex diagnostic tasks rather than routine diagnoses. It underscores the importance of carefully integrating digital innovations while preserving the essential human touch in healthcare. Symptom checkers offer promising solutions; ensuring their accuracy, reliability, and effective integration into primary care requires rigorous research, clinical guidance, and an understanding of varied user perceptions. Collaboration among technologists, clinicians, and patients is paramount for the successful evolution of digital tools in healthcare.
Sediment Modelling of a Catchment to Determine Medium-Term Erosional Trends
Authors: Nair Devika , Evans Ken G. , Bellairs Sean M.
Published: September 2023

This study was part of a project designed to simulate the long-term landform equilibrium of a rehabilitated mine site. The project utilized event Fine Suspended Sediment (FSS) fluxes in a receiving stream following a rainfall event as an indicator of landform stability. The aim of this study was to use HEC-HMS to determine sediment and discharge quantity upstream to determine how it affects the downstream development of the catchment landform, in terms of sediment changes and geomorphology. Thus, the study focused on hydrology and sediment modelling of the upper catchment with HEC-HMS (Hydrologic Engineering Centre-Hydrologic Modelling System) to determine the daily discharge and sediment output at the catchment outlet. HEC-HMS was used to calibrate the stream discharge and FSS quantities at the catchment outlet to observed continuous discharge and FSS values. The calibration of the HEC-HMS model was carried out for two water years and then the same model parameters were used to validate the model for a third water year. The catchment discharge and FSS were calibrated and validated for continuous rainfall events against observed discharge and FSS data at the catchment outlet. The model was then run for a projected rainfall of 50 years. The denudation rate predicted by the model was 0.0245 mm per year, which falls in the range previously determined for the region. The simulated sediment output was compared to the rainfall trends over the years. As a result, the sediment spikes following a rainfall-runoff event gradually decreased over time. Reducing FSS spikes indicates that the landform gradually attains stability. This modelling study can be used for long-term simulations to determine erosion equilibrium over the years and to quantify sediment yield in catchments for projected time periods.
Deep Learning Based Spatial Distribution Estimation of Soil Pb Using Multi-Phase Multispectral Remote Sensing Images in a Mining Area
Authors: Tan Min , Zhang Xiaotong , Luo Weiqiang , Hao Ming
Published: September 2023

Extensive investigation and monitoring of lead (Pb) content of soil is significant for ensuring hazard-free agricultural production, protecting human health, and ecosystem security, especially in a mining area. One temporal period of a hyperspectral image is usually used to estimate the spatial distribution of Pb and other heavy metals, but hyperspectral images are usually difficult to obtain. Multispectral remote-sensing images are more accessible than hyperspectral images. In this study, a deep learning-based model using 3D convolution is proposed to estimate the Pb content from the constructed multi-phase, multispectral remote-sensing images. Multi-phase multispectral remote-sensing images were stacked to generate a data set with more spectral bands to reduce the atmospheric absorptive aerosol effect. At the same time, a neural network based on 3D convolution (3D-ConvNet) was proposed to estimate Pb content based on the constructed data set. Compared with partial least-squares regression (PLSR), random forest regression (RFR), support vector machine regression (SVMR), and gradient-boosting regression (GBR), experimental results showed the proposed 3D-ConvNet has obvious superiority and generates more accurate estimation results, with the prediction dataset coefficient of determination (R2) and the mean normalized bias (MNB) values being 0.90 and 2.63%, respectively. Therefore, it is possible to effectively estimate heavy metal content from multi-phase, multispectral remote-sensing images, and this study provides a new approach to heavy metal pollution monitoring.
Neural Activation in Bilinguals and Monolinguals Using a Word Identification Task
Authors: Brice Alejandro E. , Salnaitis Christina , MacPherson Megan K.
Published: September 2023

The study investigated word recognition during neural activation in monolinguals and bilinguals. We specifically examined word retrieval and blood-oxygenation changes in the prefrontal cortex during a code-mixed word recognition task. Participants completed a gating task incorporating monolingual sentences and Spanish-English code-mixed sentences while using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure blood-oxygenation changes. Word recognition contained four phonotactic conditions: (1) voiceless initial consonants, (2) voiced initial consonants, (3) CV-tense words, and (4) CV-lax words. Bilingual speakers had word-recognition capabilities similar to monolingual speakers even when identifying English words. Word recognition outcomes suggested that prefrontal cortex functioning is similar for early age of acquisition (AOA) bilinguals and monolinguals when identifying words in both code-mixed and monolingual sentences. Monolingual speakers experienced difficulty with English-voiced consonant sounds; while bilingual speakers experienced difficulties with English-lax vowels. Results suggest that localization of speech perception may be similar for both monolingual and bilingual populations, yet levels of activation differed. Our findings suggest that this parity is due to early age of acquisition (AoA) bilinguals finding a balance of language capabilities (i.e., native-like proficiency) and that in some instances the bilingual speakers processed language in the same areas dedicated to first language processing.
Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Upper GI Malignancies
Authors: Christodoulidis Grigorios , Kouliou Marina-Nektaria , Koumarelas Konstantinos-Eleftherios , Giakoustidis Dimitris , Athanasiou Thanos
Published: September 2023

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) conditions vastly affect each individual’s physical, social, and emotional status. The decision-making process by the medical personnel about these patients is currently based on a patient’s life quality evaluation scale, HRQL scales. By utilizing HRQL scales, a better understanding of the various surgical and non-surgical treatment options, as well as their long-term consequences, can be achieved. In our study, an organ-based approach is used in an attempt to examine and characterized the effect of upper GI surgery on HRQL. Therefore, HRQL scales’ function as a prognostic tool is useful, and the need for future research, the creation of valid training programs, and modern guidelines is highlighted.
Teodorico Borgognoni’s Formulary for Thirteenth Century Anesthetic Preparations
Authors: Cavalloro Valeria , Soddu Francesca , Baroni Sandro , Robustelli della Cuna Francesco Saverio , Tavazzi Eleonora , Martino Emanuela , Collina Simona
Published: September 2023

Teodorico Borgognoni was born in Lucca in 1205 and was appointed bishop of Bitonto and Cervia in 1262 and 1270. Following his father, he learned the art of surgery and collected relevant recipes in his most important work, entitled Cyrurgia seu filia principis. Among the disciplines reported in this work, the most interesting and innovative is anesthesia. The recipes in this field contribute to Borbognoni’s consideration as the forerunner of modern anesthesia. Such recipes have been reported in other manuscripts from the Middle Ages, like Manuscript No. 1939. In the present work, we investigate the traditional preparations handed down in this manuscript, focusing on type of preparation and botanical ingredients. The results highlight that exploited ingredients can be divided into three groups: the first comprises plants already known for their narcotic effects, the second includes ingredients acting as an adjuvant for absorption or reducing the metabolism, and the last group includes ingredients not associated with biological activity to explain their presence in anesthetic recipes. This third group is of particular interest for future biological investigations. Our goal is to rekindle attention to the work of Teodorico Borgognoni on traditional preparation for anesthetic purposes: a topic often underestimated by ethnobotanical surveys.
Faunistic Analysis of Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae (Diptera: Oestroidea) at Different Stages of Bovine Liver Decomposition in the State of Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Nunes Mariana dos Passos , Azevedo Wellington Thadeu de Alcantara , da Silva Alexandre Sousa , Lessa Cláudia Soares dos Santos , Alencar Jeronimo , Aguiar Valéria Magalhães
Published: September 2023

Performing quantitative sampling and determining faunistic analyses of dipterans is of fundamental importance in the analysis of ecological behavior, such as population dynamics and diversity, among other factors, for exotic and native species of necrophagous dipterans, so it is important to observe the type of bait used in traps to capture these dipteran species. This work aims to study structural parameters and faunistic indices of the diversity of Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae species as well as the abundance and diversity of species attracted to liver in two stages of decomposition: fresh liver and liver at 48 h of putrefaction. A total of 2826 dipterans were collected during the period from May 2021 to February 2022. We observed that liver in decomposition for 48 h was more attractive in the forest and rural environments, while fresh liver showed greater attractiveness in the urban environment; however, no statistical difference was evidenced between the attractiveness in the different environments. The Mesembrinellidae family and the species Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann, 1819) were collected mostly from deteriorated liver, while Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius, 1775) showed no preference for any liver decomposition stage. The Wilcoxon test indicated that there is a significant difference between the preferences for putrefied bait in Mesembrinellidae, while in Calliphoridae, there was no preference for type of bait. The faunistic analysis showed that richness in the forest area was always higher when compared to the urban and rural areas. Laneela nigripes (Guimarães, 1977) and Mesembrinella bellardiana (Aldrich, 1922) were abundant and exclusive in the preserved environment, showing themselves to be good environmental bioindicators.
Grafting Amino Groups onto Polyimide Films in Flexible Copper-Clad Laminates Using Helicon Plasma
Authors: Jin Chenggang , Wang Chen , Song Shitao , Zhang Yongqi , Wan Jie , He Liang , Qiao Ziping , E Peng
Published: September 2023

Polyimide (PI) films are widely used in electronic devices owing to their excellent mechanical and electrical properties and high thermal and chemical stabilities. In particular, PI films play an important role in flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs). However, one challenge currently faced with their use is that the adhesives used in FPCBs cause a high dielectric loss in high-frequency applications. Therefore, it is envisioned that PI films with a low dielectric loss and Cu films can be used to prepare two-layer flexible copper-clad laminates (FCCLs) without any adhesive. However, the preparation of ultra-thin FCCLs with no adhesives is difficult owing to the low peel strength between PI films and Cu films. To address this technical challenge, an FCCL with no adhesive was prepared via high-power helicon wave plasma (HWP) treatment. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were tested. Also, the surface roughness of the PI film and the peel strength between the PI film and Cu film were measured. The experimental results show that the surface roughness of the PI film increased by 40–65% and the PI film demonstrated improved adhesion (the peel strength was >8.0 N/cm) with the Cu film following plasma treatment and Cu plating.
Accelerating First Principles Calculation of Multi-Component Alloy Steady-State Structure and Elastic Properties in Full Component Space
Authors: Yao Zhixuan , Zhang Yan , Liu Yong , Li Mingwei , Han Tianyi , Lai Zhonghong , Qu Nan , Zhu Jingchuan , Yu Boyuan
Published: September 2023

The FeNiCrAlCoCuTi alloy system has great advantages in mechanical properties such as high hardness and toughness. It has high performance potential and research value and the key in research is designing alloy compositions with target properties. The traditional method, experimental analysis, is highly inefficient to properly exploit the intrinsic relationship between material characteristics and properties for multi-component alloys, especially in investigating the whole composition space. In this work, we present a research way that uses first principles calculation to obtain the properties of multi-component alloys and uses machine learning to accelerate the research. The FeNiCrAlCoCuTi alloy system with its elastic properties is used as an example to demonstrate this process. We specifically design models for each output, all of which have RMSE values of less than 1.1, and confirm their effectiveness through experimental data in the literature, showing that the relative error is below 5%. Additionally, we perform an interpretable analysis on the models, exposing the underlying relationship between input features and output. By means of spatial transformation, we achieve the prediction of the full-component spatial performance from binary to multiple components. Taking the FeNiCrAlM (M = Co, Cu, Ti) quinary alloy system as an example, we design a single-phase BCC structure composed of an Fe0.23Cr0.23Al0.23Ni0.03Cu0.28 alloy with a Young’s modulus of 273.10 GPa, as well as a single-phase BCC structure composed of an Fe0.01Cr0.01Al0.01Ni0.44Co0.53 alloy with a shear modulus of 103.6 GPa. Through this research way, we use machine learning to accelerate the calculation, which greatly shortens research time and costs. This work overcomes the drawbacks of traditional experiments and directly obtains element compositions and composition intervals with excellent performance.
Age-Related Difference in Cognitive Performance under Severe Whole-Body Hyperthermia Parallels Cortisol and Physical Strain Responses
Authors: Wang Junli , Solianik Rima , Eimantas Nerijus , Baranauskiene Neringa , Brazaitis Marius
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: To date, understanding age-related changes in cognitive processes during heat exposure still needs to be better-understood. Thus, the main aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of whole-body hyperthermia (WBH), i.e., a ≈ 2.5 °C increase in rectal temperature (Tre) from overnight-fast baseline value, on cognitive functioning in old and young men and to explore factors, such as stress and thermophysiological strain, that could influence such changes. Materials and Methods: Ten young (19–21 years of age) and nine old (61–80 years of age) healthy men underwent an experimental trial with passive lower-body heating in hot water immersion (HWI) at 43 °C (HWI–43 °C) until Tre reached 39 °C in old adults and 39.5 °C in young adults. Cognitive performance and cortisol concentration were assessed before and after HWI, and the physiological strain index (PSI) was assessed during HWI–43 °C. Results: PSI was lower and cortisol concentration was greater after HWI–43 °C in the old group compared with the young group (p < 0.05). Surprisingly, hyperthermia improved cognitive flexibility only in old adults, whereas short-term and visual recognition memories were maintained in both age groups. Conclusions: A ≈ 2.5 °C increase in rectal temperature can improve executive function in old adults, and this increase parallels the increased cortisol concentration and the lower thermophysiological strain under severe WBH conditions.
A Molecular Dynamics Simulation to Shed Light on the Mechanical Alloying of an Al-Zr Alloy Induced by Severe Plastic Deformation
Authors: Morkina Alina Y. , Babicheva Rita I. , Korznikova Elena A. , Enikeev Nariman A. , Edalati Kaveh , Dmitriev Sergey V.
Published: September 2023

In a recent experimental work, as a result of severe plastic deformation, a non-equilibrium solid solution was obtained despite the very limited solubility of zirconium (Zr) in aluminum (Al). This opens up a new path in the development of heat-treatable alloys with improved electrical and mechanical properties, where mechanically dissolved elements can form intermetallic particles that contribute to precipitation strengthening. In the present study, molecular dynamics simulations were performed to better understand the process of mechanical dissolution of Zr within an Al model, with Zr atoms segregated along its grain boundaries. Stress–strain curves, radial distribution functions, and mechanisms of plastic deformation and dissolution of Zr in Al were analyzed. It is revealed that orientation of the grain boundary with segregation normal to the shear direction promotes more efficient mixing of alloy components compared to its parallel arrangement. This happens because in the second case, grain boundary sliding is the main deformation mechanism, and Zr tends to remain within the interfaces. In contrast, the involvement of dislocations in the case of normal orientation of grain boundaries with Zr segregation significantly contributes to deformation and facilitates better dissolution of Zr in the Al matrix. The findings obtained can provide new insights considering the role of texture during mechanical alloying of strongly dissimilar metals.
Progression to Obesity: Variations in Patterns of Metabolic Fluxes, Fat Accumulation, and Gastrointestinal Responses
Authors: Milhem Fadia , Komarnytsky Slavko
Published: September 2023

Obesity is a multifactorial disorder that is remarkably heterogeneous. It presents itself in a variety of phenotypes that can be metabolically unhealthy or healthy, associate with no or multiple metabolic risk factors, gain extreme body weight (super-responders), as well as resist obesity despite the obesogenic environment (non-responders). Progression to obesity is ultimately linked to the overall net energy balance and activity of different metabolic fluxes. This is particularly evident from variations in fatty acids oxidation, metabolic fluxes through the pyruvate-phosphoenolpyruvate-oxaloacetate node, and extracellular accumulation of Krebs cycle metabolites, such as citrate. Patterns of fat accumulation with a focus on visceral and ectopic adipose tissue, microbiome composition, and the immune status of the gastrointestinal tract have emerged as the most promising targets that allow personalization of obesity and warrant further investigations into the critical issue of a wider and long-term weight control. Advances in understanding the biochemistry mechanisms underlying the heterogenous obesity phenotypes are critical to the development of targeted strategies to maintain healthy weight.
Neuromuscular Magnetic Field Measurement Based on Superconducting Bio-Sensors
Authors: Zhang Zhidan , He Anran , Xu Zihan , Yang Kun , Kong Xiangyan
Published: September 2023

These years, disease-causing and disabling diseases have caused great concern. Neurological musculoskeletal disorders are diverse and affect people of a wide range of ages. And the lack of comprehensive diagnostic methods places a huge burden on healthcare systems and social economies. In this paper, the current status of clinical research on neuromuscular diseases is introduced, and the advantages of magnetic field measurement compared with clinical diagnostic methods are illustrated. A comprehensive description of the related technology of superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs), magnetic field detection noise suppression scheme, the development trend of the sensor detection system, and the application and model establishment of the neuromuscular magnetic field is also given in this paper. The current research and development trends worldwide are compared simultaneously, and finally the conclusions and outlook are put forward. Based on the description of the existing literature and the ideas of other researchers, the next development trends and my own research ideas are presented in this paper, that is, starting from the establishment of a neuromuscular model, combining medical and industrial work, designing a sensor system that meets clinical needs, and laying the foundation for the clinical application of a bio-magnetic system. This review promotes a combination between medicine and industry, and guides researchers on considering the challenges of sensor development in terms of clinical needs. In addition, in this paper, the development trends are described, including the establishment of the model, the clinical demand for sensors, and the challenges of system development so as to give certain guidance to researchers.
The Influence of Pre-Existing Immunity against Human Common Cold Coronaviruses on COVID-19 Susceptibility and Severity
Authors: De La Torre Tarazona Erick , Jiménez Daniel , Marcos-Mencía Daniel , Mendieta-Baro Alejandro , Rivera-Delgado Alejandro , Romero-Hernández Beatriz , Muriel Alfonso , Rodríguez-Domínguez Mario , Serrano-Villar Sergio , Moreno Santiago
Published: September 2023

The susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the severity of COVID-19 manifestations vary significantly among individuals, prompting the need for a deeper understanding of the disease. Our objective in this study was to investigate whether previous infections with human common cold coronaviruses (hCCCoV) might impact susceptibility to and the progression of SARS-CoV-2 infections. We assessed the serum antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 and four hCCCoV (H-CoV-OC43, -NL63, -HKU1, and -229E) in three distinct populations: 95 uninfected individuals (COVID-19-negative), 83 individuals with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 (COVID-19-mild), and 45 patients who died due to COVID-19 (COVID-19-severe). The first two groups were matched in terms of their exposure to SARS-CoV-2. We did not observe any differences in the mean antibody levels between the COVID-19-mild and the COVID-19-negative participants. However, individuals in the COVID-19-mild group exhibited a higher frequency of antibody levels (sample/control) > 0.5 against H-CoV-HKU1, and >1 against H-CoV-229E and -OC43 (p < 0.05). In terms of severity, we noted significantly elevated H-CoV-NL63 IgG levels in the COVID-19-severe group compared to the other groups (p < 0.01). Our findings suggest a potential mild influence of hCCCoV antibody levels on the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the severity of COVID-19. These observations could aid in the development of strategies for predicting and mitigating the severity of COVID-19.