bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thrombotic Microangiopathy in the Setting of Colorectal Cancer: A Therapeutic Challenge with a Bad Prognosis
Authors: Bouferraa Youssef , Haibe Yolla , Hamdan Hanan , Mahfouz Rami , Chakhachiro Zaher , Shamseddine Ali
Published: January 2023

While most cases of thrombotic microangiopathic hemolytic anemias are idiopathic, some can occur in the setting of a malignancy. Differentiating both conditions is crucial to initiate the appropriate treatment. In this case report and literature review, we discuss the occurrence of a thrombotic microangiopathy in a 61-year-old male patient with a treatment-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer invading his bone marrow. Plasmapheresis does not constitute the mainstay of treatment in this setting, as targeting the primary disease is the ultimate management. Treating the condition of our patient has been challenging as multiple lines of treatments of his primary disease had been exhausted. The discrepancy in KRAs status obtained between PCR and later NGS offered a new treatment line with Cetuximab. In this article, we will discuss the different factors that differentiate between idiopathic and cancer-induced microangiopathy. We will emphasize on the fact that the treatment of the primary disease constitutes the most important step in the treatment of cancer-induced thrombotic microangiopathy. We will also raise several explanations to target the disagreement in KRAS status obtained by the different technical modalities.
Quantitative Determination of the Main Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, and Toxicity of Aqueous Extracts of Olive Leaves of Greek and Spanish Genotypes
Authors: Martínez-Navarro María Esther , Kaparakou Eleftheria H. , Kanakis Charalabos D. , Cebrián-Tarancón Cristina , Alonso Gonzalo L. , Salinas María Rosario , Tarantilis Petros A.
Published: January 2023

Olive leaves are rich in phenolic compounds, which give them antioxidant properties that are associated with a lower incidence of disease. Therefore, the aim of this work was to determine the phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and toxicity of the aqueous extracts of olive leaves of the main Spanish and Greek cultivated and wild genotypes. For these purposes, ‘Picual’ and ‘Arbequina’ leaves from Spain and ‘Koronoeiki’ and ‘Kalamon’ leaves from Greece were collected, as were wild olive leaves from both countries. The aqueous extracts of these genotypes were analyzed by HPLC-DAD, and the DPPH·, ABTS·+ Folin–Ciocalteu, and Microtox® methods were also used. ‘Picual’ had the highest oleuropein values, followed by wild olive leaves from both countries and ‘Arbequina’. The latter was reflected in the antioxidant activity measured by DPPH· and ABTS·+, which positioned the leaves of ‘Arbequina’, ‘Picual’, and the wild genotypes as having the most antioxidant activity. As expected, these leaves also had the highest total phenol content, as measured by Folin–Ciocalteu. Regarding the inhibition of the bioluminescence of Aliivibrio fischeri of the aqueous leaf extracts measured by Microtox®, the EC5015 ranged between 11.82 and 82.50 mg/mL, demonstrating similar behavior to other herbal infusions.
Browning in Relation to Enzymatic Activities and Phytochemical Content in Terap Peel (Artocarpus odoratissimus Blanco) during Postharvest Ripening
Authors: Ismail Halifah Afiza , Richard Isniti , Ramaiya Shiamala Devi , Zakaria Muta Harah , Lee Shiou Yih
Published: January 2023

Enzymatic browning is a common limiting factor in the fruit industry because it causes significant losses through fresh product deterioration, affecting taste, flavor, and nutrition. Artocarpus odoratissimus, locally known as terap, is an exotic indigenous fruit to Borneo. This fruit remains underutilized due to its perishability, short shelf-life, and peel browning. Currently, no information has apparently been published on the browning mechanisms of A. odoratissimus. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate the degree of browning and enzymatic activities in relation to the phytochemical contents in A. odoratissimus during postharvest ripening. The experimental design consists of packaging (without packaging and with packaging) and storage temperatures (ambient at 25 °C, and cold storage at 10 °C), which were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Findings showed significantly higher weight loss in fruit stored at 25 °C on days 4 (T1) at 12.20 ± 0.19% and 8 (T5) at 11.09 ± 0.24%. The degree of browning was higher in the fruits stored with packaging at 25 °C, collected on day 4 at 0.48 ± 0.01 and day 8 at 0.51 ± 0.02, and consequently, the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (671.00 ± 5.25 UE g−1 min−1) and polyphenol oxidase (670.00 ± 2.56 UE g−1 min−1) enzymatic activities were also higher. The lower enzymatic activities were recorded in the fruit stored at 10 °C without packaging, resulting in the least degree of browning. The fruit with the lowest enzymatic activities was stored at 10 °C without packaging, resulting in the least amount of browning. This trend is supported by lower total phenolic content (TPC) and is explained by a strong positive correlation between TPC and PAL (r = 0.927). Low-temperature storage was effective in reducing the effect of browning and deterioration on A. odoratissimus for up to 16 days. The results not only provided insights into the peel browning in A. odoratissimus but also guidance on controlling postharvest fruit browning.
Aureobasidium spp.: Diversity, Versatility, and Agricultural Utility
Authors: Di Francesco Alessandra , Zajc Janja , Stenberg Johan A.
Published: January 2023

The black yeast-like fungi Aureobasidium spp. are ubiquitous microorganisms found in a wide variety of extreme and benign environments as saprophytes, endophytes, and pathogens. Since this diverse genus includes species with potential uses in agriculture and the food industry, it is important that we explore their evolution and spread in the context of climate change. Aureobasidium spp. are known to be capable of producing a plethora of various metabolites, many of which find applications in the field in the control of plant pathogens. The present review aims to explain how these microorganisms can provide ecological and safe strategies that might be adopted in agricultural production systems and food processing. The versatility and potential of the Aureobasidium genus lie perfectly within the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda 2021–2030 by opening new horizons that are respectful to the environment and human health.
Air Pollution and Migration Decision of Migrants in Low-Carbon Society
Authors: Shen Feiwei , Wang Qiang , Zou Jing , Yan Huili , Wang Baitao
Published: January 2023

The influence of environmental quality on the quality of urban life and on migration decisions is an important research issue in urban economics and environmental economics. Using the 2012–2014 China Labor Dynamics Survey data (CLDS), this paper uses a conditional logit model (CLM) and Instrumental Variable (IV) estimation to examine the impact of air pollution on the migrant migration decision. We find that air pollution significantly negatively impacts the migration decisions of migrants. Specifically, if the PM2.5 level of a city increases by 10 μg/m3, the probability of migrants flowing into the city will be significantly reduced by 21.2%. It shows that migrants choose to flow into cities with better spatial quality to reduce the risk of exposure to air pollution. After controlling for the characteristics of the outflow and the reasons for the flow, the impact of air pollution on migrants’ migration decisions remains robust. Heterogeneity analysis shows that middle-aged, male, married, and highly educated migrants are more sensitive to air pollution. This paper enriches the research on air pollution and labor mobility at the micro level and provides empirical evidence for policymaking related to environmental governance and labor mobility in a low-carbon society.
Quality of Life and Stress Levels in Patients under Home Mechanical Ventilation: What Can We Do to Improve Functioning Patients at Home? A Survey Study
Authors: Kwiatosz-Muc Magdalena , Kopacz Bożena , Fijałkowska-Nestorowicz Anna
Published: January 2023

Background: Home mechanical ventilation (HMV) is becoming more widely available in many countries. Objectives: The aim of this study was to measure the health-related quality of life and stress levels of patients ventilated mechanically at home. The relation between quality of life and stress levels was investigated including multiple regression analysis. Methods: 100 patients treated with HMV in Poland were surveyed with the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Results: 26% of patients assessed their quality of life as bad or very bad and 34% as good or very good. Stress levels measured with PSS-10 Scale were high level. For the group of patients with neurological disorders, stress levels were significantly higher than for the group of patients with pulmonological disorders. Conclusions: The higher the stress levels of patients, the lower the quality of life in particular domains. Improving the living conditions of HMV patients can influence improving their quality of life.
Myopia and Near Work: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dutheil Frédéric , Oueslati Tharwa , Delamarre Louis , Castanon Joris , Maurin Caroline , Chiambaretta Frédéric , Baker Julien S. , Ugbolue Ukadike C. , Zak Marek , Lakbar Ines , Pereira Bruno , Navel Valentin
Published: January 2023

Background: Myopia is a global public health problem affecting quality of life and work productivity. Data is scarce regarding the effects of near work on myopia. Providing a larger meta-analysis with life-long perspective, including adults and occupational exposure seemed needed. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and Science Direct for studies reporting myopia prevalence in near work. Myopia was defined as a mean spherical equivalent ≤ −0.50 diopter. We performed a meta-analysis using random-effects model on myopia prevalence, myopia progression per year, and odds ratio (OR) of myopia in near work, completed by subgroup analyses and meta-regressions on patients’ characteristics, type of work in adults, geographic zones, time and characteristics of near work. Results: We included 78 studies, representing a total of 254,037 participants, aged from 6 to 39 years. The global prevalence of myopia in near work was 35% (95% CI: 30 to 41%), with a prevalence of 31% (95% CI: 26 to 37%) in children and 46% (95% CI: 30 to 62%) in adults. Myopia progression was −0.39 diopters per year (−0.53 to −0.24 D/year), ranging from −0.44 (−0.57 to −0.31) in children to −0.25 D/year (−0.56 to 0.06) in adults. The odds of myopia in workers exposed vs. non-exposed to near work were increased by 26% (18 to 34%), by 31% (21 to 42%) in children and 21% (6 to 35%) in adults. Prevalence of myopia was higher in adults compared to children (Coefficient 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.27). Conclusions: Near work conditions, including occupational exposure in adults, could be associated with myopia. Targeted prevention should be implemented in the workplace.
The Roles of Endorsement and Stigma in Suicidal Ideation and Behavior among Chinese College Students
Authors: Lyu Shunyan , Li Yu
Published: January 2023

Previous studies have suggested that stereotypes towards suicide, including endorsement of suicide and stigma toward suicide, may contribute to suicidal ideation and behaviors. However, this has not been examined directly. In this study, we examined whether endorsement of suicide and stigma toward suicide are involved in the pathway from suicidal ideation to suicide attempts among college students. To this end, we used the Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale (SIDAS), the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R), and the Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS) to assess suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, endorsement of suicide, and stigma toward suicide, respectively, in a sample of 944 Chinese college students (mean age, 20.97 years). Using mediation analysis, we found that suicidal ideation partially mediated the relationship between endorsement of suicide and suicide attempts and between stigma toward suicide and suicide attempts. These findings provide novel evidence that endorsement of suicide and stigma toward suicide are closely associated with suicide attempts, but partially through the influences of suicidal ideation. Future studies should elaborate on their longitudinal relationships. Implications of these findings for clinical practices are discussed with reference to the ideation-to-action framework of suicide, aiming to reduce suicidal behaviors.
Are Ecosystem Services Provided by Street Trees at Parcel Level Worthy of Attention? A Case Study of a Campus in Zhenjiang, China
Authors: Shen Guangxi , Song Zipeng , Xu Jiacong , Zou Lishuang , Huang Lijin , Li Yingnan
Published: January 2023

Street trees in urban areas have positive impacts on the environment, such as climate regulation, air purification, and runoff mitigation. However, the ecosystem services (ES) provided by street trees at the parcel level remain a notable gap in the existing literature. This study quantified the ES benefits provided by street trees at Jiangsu University in Zhenjiang, China, which could represent the parcel level. A widely applied model, i-Tree Eco, was used to evaluate the ES, including carbon storage, carbon sequestration, pollutant removal, rainwater runoff reduction, and their economic value. We also analyzed how these are affected by the structure of tree species. The results revealed that the 10 most abundant species accounted for 84.3% of the total number of trees, with an unstable structure of species composition. A reasonable age proportion was important since a lower proportion of young trees may make future benefit outputs unstable. The annual economic value provided by ES was USD 205,253.20, with an average of USD 79.90 per tree. Platanus orientalis had the highest single plant benefit, indicating that the management pattern of street trees could be adapted in different environments to maximize benefits. Thus, street trees at the parcel level should receive more attention with strategic planning and management in order to maximize the ES and their economic value.
Driving Factors and Spatiotemporal Characteristics of CO2 Emissions from Marine Fisheries in China: A Commonly Neglected Carbon-Intensive Sector
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Ye Shengchao , Shen Manhong
Published: January 2023

The CO2 emissions from marine fisheries have a significant impact on marine ecology, despite generally being overlooked in studies on global climate change. Few studies have estimated the carbon emissions from marine fisheries while taking into account all pertinent sectors. This study evaluated marine fisheries’ CO2 emissions based on three sectors: marine fishing, mariculture, and the marine aquatic product processing industry. Kernel density estimation and the spatial Durbin model were used to investigate the spatial and temporal characteristics and the key socioeconomic drivers of the CO2 emissions from marine fisheries in 11 coastal provinces of China from 2005 to 2020. The results are as follows: (1) marine fishing is the sector that produces the most CO2 emissions; trawling operations generate more CO2 than all other modes of operation combined; (2) China’s marine fisheries’ CO2 emissions show a rising, then declining, trend, with significant differences in coastal provinces; (3) the development of the marine fishery economy and trade have a positive driving effect on CO2 emissions, the expansion of the tertiary industry does not decrease CO2, the technical advancement and income growth of fishermen are negatively related to carbon emissions, and the effect of environmental regulation has failed to pass the significance test; (4) the carbon emissions of marine fisheries have significant spatial spillover effects.
The Job that Kills the Worker: Analysis of Two Case Reports on Work-Related Stress Deaths in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Marrone Maricla , Angeletti Carlo , Cazzato Gerardo , Sebastiani Gabriele , Buongiorno Luigi , Caricato Pierluigi , Pititto Fortunato , Cascardi Eliano , Stellacci Alessandra , De Luca Benedetta Pia
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increasing number of corporate layoffs and downsizing, as well as causing many employees to be absent due to illness, with inevitable consequences on the health of active workers both from a physical point of view, due to the need to make up for staff and organizational shortages, and from a mental point of view, due to the inevitable consequences related to the uncertainty of the social context. This context has certainly caused an increase in work-related stress, which is the pathological outcome of a process that affects workers who are subjected to excessive (emotional-relational or high or low or inadequate activity) or improper work loads. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the main aspects of this issue, through the analysis proposed by two case reports, both of which occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, in which occupational stress emerged as an etiological agent in the determinism of death.
Comparisons of Effectiveness in Differentiating Benign from Malignant Ovarian Masses between Conventional and Modified Risk of Malignancy Index (RMI)
Authors: Tantipalakorn Charuwan , Tinnangwattana Dangcheewan , Lerthiranwong Thitikarn , Luewan Suchaya , Tongsong Theera
Published: January 2023

Objective: To compare the predictive performance in differentiating benign from malignant ovarian masses between the modified risk malignancy index (RMI) and the conventional RMI (RMI-1 and RMI-2). Methods: Women scheduled for elective surgery because of adnexal masses were recruited to undergo pelvic sonography within 24 h before surgery to assess the sonographic characteristics of the masses, focusing on loculi, solid part, ascites, bilateralness, papillary projection, and color flow mapping (CFM). Preoperative CA-125 levels were also measured. Modified RMI, RMI-1, and RMI-2 systems were used to predict malignant masses. The gold standard was pathological or intraoperative diagnosis. Results: A total of 342 ovarian masses, benign: 243 (71.1%); malignant: 99 (28.9%), meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The sensitivity and the specificity of the modified RMI (87.9% and 81.9%) were significantly higher than those of RMI-1 (74.7% and 84.4%), and RMI-2 (79.8% and 81.1%, respectively). Based on ROC curves, the area under the curves were 0.930, 0.881 and 0.882 for modified RMI, RMI-1 and RMI-2, respectively. Conclusion: Modified RMI had better predictive performance than the conventional RMI in differentiating between benign and malignant ovarian masses. Modified RMI may be useful to help general gynecologists or practitioners to triage patients with an adnexal mass, especially in settings of low resources.
Creation and Validation of the European Portuguese Version of the Systemic Lupus Erythematous Quality of Life Questionnaire
Authors: Ferreira Pedro Lopes , Cunha Rita Novais , Macieira Carla , Fontes Tomás , Inês Luís Sousa , Maduro Ana , Martins Ana , Rajão Frederico , Furtado Carolina , Barcelos Anabela
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) experience profound effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) that cannot be explained by objective indicators of mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to adapt the SLE Quality of Life (SLEQoL) questionnaire to the European Portuguese population and to assess its reliability and validity for patients with SLE. (2) Methods: Two independent translators translated the original version of the SLEQoL questionnaire into Portuguese. A back-translated version was produced. The Portuguese version of the questionnaire was reviewed and tested for validity and reliability. Cronbach’s alpha and the internal validity index were calculated to verify the internal reliability and validity of the content. Rheumatologists filled out the SLE Disease Activity Score (SLE-DAS) and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index SLICC/ACR-DI questionnaires. (3) Results: This study involved 180 patients, of which 93.8% were females. The results indicated very high internal consistency reliability (α = 0.949), low correlations between the SLEQoL and the SLE-DAS, a correlation between all SLEQoL dimensions and all SF-36 dimensions (except for “response to treatment” and “self-image”), and good correlation scores with both the EQ-5D-5L index and VAS. (4) Conclusion: The Portuguese version of the SLEQoL questionnaire is valid and reliable for the measurement of HRQoL in SLE patients.
Virtual Reality Exercise Program Effects on Body Mass Index, Depression, Exercise Fun and Exercise Immersion in Overweight Middle-Aged Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Seo Eun-Young , Kim Yeon-Suk , Lee Yu-Jin , Hur Myung-Haeng
Published: January 2023

Background: This study explored the effects of a virtual reality exercise program on overweight middle-aged women. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included women 40–65 years of age with a body mass index (BMI) of 23 kg/m2 or more living in Daejeon City. The virtual reality environment was set up by attaching an IoT sensor to an indoor bicycle and linking it with a smartphone, enabling exercise in an immersive virtual reality through a head-mounted display. Results: In the virtual reality exercise group, the BMI was significantly decreased after the 8-week intervention compared with the baseline value (F = 59.491, p < 0.001). The depression scores were significantly different among the three groups, with the intervention effect being more significant in the virtual reality exercise group than in the indoor bicycle exercise and control groups (F = 3.462, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the levels of exercise fun (F = 12.373, p < 0.001) and exercise immersion (F = 14.629, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the virtual reality exercise group than in the indoor bicycle exercise and control groups. Conclusions: The virtual reality exercise program positively affected the BMI and the levels of depression, exercise fun, and exercise immersion in overweight middle-aged women. It is an effective home exercise program for obesity management in this population.
Comparison between the American and the European Systems of Monitoring Adverse Effects of Dietary Supplements and Their Usefulness on the Polish Market
Authors: Wróbel Kacper , Zastawna Beata , Milewska Anna Justyna , Marczak Michał , Kozłowski Remigiusz
Published: January 2023

Many Polish patients do not inform physicians about supplements they use in addition to prescribed medicines. This may be because they consider dietary supplements as being rather natural products that cannot cause health problems. Although dietary supplements may produce side effects, Poland’s food safety system and medical statistics do not recognise the necessity of reporting such cases. However, a different approach is observed in France and the United States where adverse effects of food supplements as well as drugs are reported. The aim of this study was to determine the need for creating in Poland a general model of a register monitoring dietary supplements and their adverse effects. In order to achieve this goal, a detailed comparison between the American and European monitoring systems was made. It showed the relationship between negative symptoms caused by specific components in supplements and t profiles of patients who reported side effects. Additionally, it was found that there is a real risk associated with side effects caused by dietary supplements. Therefore, it necessary to establish in Poland a special system for recording such cases as it should be beneficial to patients, including polypragmatic patients.
Readiness and Challenges of E-Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era: A Space Analysis in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Jafar Adi , Dollah Ramli , Mittal Prabhat , Idris Asmady , Kim Jong Eop , Abdullah Mohd Syariefudin , Joko Eko Prayitno , Tejuddin Dayangku Norasyikin Awang , Sakke Nordin , Zakaria Noor Syakirah , Mapa Mohammad Tahir , Vun Hung Chong
Published: January 2023

During the COVID-19 era, most countries, including Malaysia, have shifted from face-to-face teaching systems to online teaching programs. The aim of this study is to identify the main challenges that higher education students face during e-learning based on their residential location throughout Peninsular Malaysia. This study further examines the readiness of higher education students to apply e-learning. Therefore, a cross-sectional survey approach is used to fulfil the outlined objectives. Accordingly, 761 public (95.3%) and private (4.7%) higher education students residing in Peninsular Malaysia are sampled in this study. The survey was administered online for 37 days, from 21 October 21 to 6 December 2021, using either WhatsApp or Facebook. The raw data is inferentially (Principal Component Analysis, K-Means Clustering, Kruskal Wallis, and spatial analysis) and descriptively (mean, standard deviation & percentage) analyzed. It has been revealed that six clusters of students in Peninsular Malaysia face various challenges while following the e-learning program. Most states in Peninsular Malaysia are dominated by students in Cluster D (Terengganu, Perlis, Penang, Selangor, WP Kuala Lumpur, and WP Putrajaya) and Cluster B categories (Melaka, Johor, Kelantan, and Kedah). Students in the Cluster D category tend to suffer from physical health disorders and social isolation, while students in the Cluster B category face problems with decreased focus in learning, mental health disorders, and social isolation. The outcomes further indicate that the more challenges students face during e-learning programs, the lower their willingness to continue with the program. The results of this study are significant in addressing the challenges of e-learning, which will help stakeholders address and strengthen student abilities.
Interpersonal Communication Style and Personal and Professional Growth among Saudi Arabian Employees
Authors: Abed Lowai G. , Abed Mohaned G. , Shackelford Todd K.
Published: January 2023

This study explored the association of interpersonal communication style (ICS) with personal and professional growth among Saudi Arabians in the context of the work environment. It was hypothesized that different ICSs are differently associated with personal and professional growth. The participants were 143 Saudi Arabian adults, including members of both genders, who were employed, with varying incomes, and who had different education levels. The participants completed a self-report survey, assessing their ICS and their personal and professional growth in an employment context. Consistent with the hypothesis, the results indicated that different ICSs are differently associated with personal and professional growth. The controlling ICS had the strongest relationship to professional and personal growth, whereas the dynamic ICS had the weakest relationship to professional and personal growth. In the Discussion, we address the limitations of the study and identify several directions for future research, with specific reference to the Saudi Arabian cultural context.
Leg Muscle Activity and Joint Motion during Balance Exercise Using a Newly Developed Weight-Shifting-Based Robot Control System
Authors: Yamako Go , Ito Kirari , Muraoka Takanori , Chosa Etsuo
Published: January 2023

A novel and fun exercise robot (LOCOBOT) was developed to improve balance ability. This system can control a spherical robot on a floor by changing the center of pressure (COP) based on weight-shifting on a board. The present study evaluated leg muscle activity and joint motion during LOCOBOT exercise and compared the muscle activity with walking and sit-to-stand movement. This study included 10 healthy male adults (age: 23.0 ± 0.9 years) and examined basic LOCOBOT exercises (front–back, left–right, 8-turn, and bowling). Electromyography during each exercise recorded 13 right leg muscle activities. Muscle activity was represented as the percentage maximal voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC). Additionally, the joint motion was simultaneously measured using an optical motion capture system. The mean %MVIC differed among LOCOBOT exercises, especially in ankle joint muscles. The ankle joint was primarily used for robot control. The mean %MVIC of the 8-turn exercise was equivalent to that of walking in the tibialis anterior, and the ankle plantar flexors were significantly higher than those in the sit-to-stand motion. Participants control the robot by ankle strategy. This robot exercise can efficiently train the ankle joint muscles, which would improve ankle joint stability.
Meteorological Approach in the Identification of Local and Remote Potential Sources of Radon: An Example in Northern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Hernández-Ceballos Miguel Ángel , Alegría Natalia , Peñalva Igor , Muñoz Jose Miguel , De la Torre Alejandro , Legarda Fernando , Cinelli Giorgia
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a meteorological approach to identify local and remote sources driving the variability of surface daily radon concentrations. To this purpose, hourly 222Rn concentration and surface meteorological measurements, and air mass trajectories at Bilbao station (northern Iberian Peninsula) during the period 2017–2018 have been taken as reference. To investigate the potential transport pathways and potential 222Rn sources, the backward trajectory cluster analysis, trajectory sector analysis (TSA), and potential source contribution function (PSCF) are applied. On average, the diurnal 222Rn cycle shows the expected behaviour, with larger concentrations during the night and minimum concentrations during the daylight hours, with differences in the seasonal amplitudes. According to daily differences between maximum and baseline values, 222Rn daily cycles were grouped into six groups to identify meteorological conditions associated with each amplitude, and potential source areas and transport routes of 222Rn over Bilbao. The trajectory cluster and the TSA method show that the main airflow pathways are from the south, with small displacement, and the northeast, while the analysis of surface wind speed and direction indicates that the highest amplitudes of 222Rn concentrations are registered under the development of sea-land breezes. The PSCF method identified south-western and north-eastern areas highly contributing to the 222Rn concentration. These areas are confirmed by comparing with the radon flux map and the European map of uranium concentration in soil. The results have demonstrated the need in combining the analysis of local and regional/synoptic factors in explaining the origin and variability of 222Rn concentrations.
Drivers and Decoupling Effects of PM2.5 Emissions in China: An Application of the Generalized Divisia Index
Authors: Wang Shangjiu , Zhang Shaohua , Cheng Liang
Published: January 2023

Although economic growth brings abundant material wealth, it is also associated with serious PM2.5 pollution. Decoupling PM2.5 emissions from economic development is important for China’s long-term sustainable development. In this paper, the generalized Divisia index method (GDIM) is extended by introducing innovation indicators to investigate the main drivers of PM2.5 pollution in China and its four subregions from 2008 to 2017. Afterwards, a GDIM-based decoupling index is developed to examine the decoupling states between PM2.5 emissions and economic growth and to identify the main factors leading to decoupling. The obtained results show that: (1) Innovation input scale and GDP are the main drivers for increases in PM2.5 emissions, while innovation input PM2.5 intensity, emission intensity, and emission coefficient are the main reasons for reductions in PM2.5 pollution. (2) China and its four subregions show general upward trends in the decoupling index, and their decoupling states turn from weak decoupling to strong decoupling. (3) Innovation input PM2.5 intensity, emission intensity, and emission coefficient contribute largely to the decoupling of PM2.5 emissions. Overall, this paper provides valuable information for mitigating haze pollution.
The Impact of Urban Construction Land Change on Carbon Emissions—A Case Study of Wuhan City
Authors: Tan Yuchuan , Liu Yanzhong , Chen Yong , Zhang Zuo , Wu Dan , Chen Hongyi , Han Yufei
Published: January 2023

Urban construction land (UCL) change is a significant cause of changes in urban carbon emissions. However, as the extent of this effect is currently unclear, cities cannot easily formulate reasonable carbon reduction policies in terms of land use. Taking the city of Wuhan, China, as an example, this paper combines data on land use and carbon emissions from 1995 to 2019 and uses spatial analysis, curve estimation, and correlation evaluation to explore the direct and indirect effects of the UCL changes on carbon emissions. The results show that: (1) Between 1995 and 2019, the UCL area in Wuhan increased by 193.44%, and carbon emissions increased by 78.63%; moreover, both changes showed a gradually increasing spatial correlation, and the quantitative relationship could be better fitted with a composite function model; (2) The UCL change had mainly an indirect impact on carbon emissions via factors such as population and energy use intensity per unit of carbon emissions; (3) The maximum value of carbon emissions inside a unit area decreased during the study period, with an average annual decrease of about 2.02%. Therefore, the city of Wuhan can promote the achievement of its carbon emissions reduction targets by improving the existing land use policies, for example, by dividing the city into multiple functional zones.
Fama–French–Carhart Factor-Based Premiums in the US REIT Market: A Risk Based Explanation, and the Impact of Financial Distress and Liquidity Crisis from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Essa Mohammad Sharik , Giouvris Evangelos
Published: January 2023

The study investigates the impact of financial distress (credit spread) and liquidity crises (TED spread) on size, value, profitability, investment and momentum premiums within the US Real Estate Investment Trust market. Using daily data from 2001 to 2020, we examine the presence, magnitude and significance of these premiums, along with assessing if these premiums are associated with higher risk. The study then employs Auto-regressive distributed lag and Error Correction Modeling to establish the long/short-run impact of financial distress and liquidity crisis on these premiums during recessionary and non-recessionary phases, including COVID-19. Premiums associated with all five factors are positive and significant. Secondly, in contradiction to the Efficient Market Hypothesis, we find that value and momentum portfolios provide superior returns without exposing investors to higher risk while portfolios based on size, profitability and investment, do tend to expose investors to a higher risk. Thirdly, in contradiction to the risk based explanation of Fama–French/Carhart (2015/1997), we find significant evidence of a fall in profitability and momentum premiums with an uptick in financial distress and liquidity crisis. On the other hand, size, value and investment premiums rise with financial distress/liquidity crisis, only during the recessionary phases. This impact is insignificant during non-recessionary phases.
Latonduine-1-Amino-Hydantoin Hybrid, Triazole-Fused Latonduine Schiff Bases and Their Metal Complexes: Synthesis, X-ray and Electron Diffraction, Molecular Docking Studies and Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Wittmann Christopher , Gruene Tim , Prado-Roller Alexander , Aranđelović Sandra , Reynisson Jóhannes , Arion Vladimir B.
Published: January 2023

A series of latonduine derivatives, namely 11-nitro-indolo[2,3-d]benzazepine-7-(1-amino-hydantoin) (B), triazole-fused indolo[2,3-d]benzazepine-based Schiff bases HL1 and HL2 and metal complexes [M(p-cymene)(HL1)Cl]Cl, where M = Ru (1), Os (2), and [Cu(HL2)Cl2] (3) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic techniques (UV–vis, 1H, 13C, 15N–1H HSQC NMR) and ESI mass spectrometry. The molecular structures of B and HL1 were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, while that of 3 by electron diffraction of nanometer size crystalline sample. Molecular docking calculations of species B in the binding pocket of PIM-1 enzyme revealed that the 1-amino-hydantoin moiety is not involved in any hydrogen-bonding interactions, even though a good accommodation of the host molecule in the ATP binding pocket of the enzyme was found. The antiproliferative activity of organic compounds B, HL1 and HL2, as well as complexes 1–3 was investigated in lung adenocarcinoma A549, colon adenocarcinoma LS-174 and triple-negative breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells and normal human lung fibroblast cells MRC-5 by MTT assays; then, the results are discussed.
The Intranidal Myrmecophiles of the Maltese Islands with Notes on Messor Nests as Repositories of Biodiversity
Authors: Cassar Thomas , Lapeva-Gjonova Albena , Mifsud David
Published: January 2023

The intranidal myrmecophilous arthropod fauna of the Maltese Islands is reviewed. Thirty species from nine orders are found to be obligate myrmecophiles, of which four species are recorded from the Maltese archipelago for the first time: Phrurolithus sp. (Araneae: Phrurolithidae), Pogonolaelaps canestrinii (Berlese, 1904), Gymnolaelaps messor Joharchi, Halliday, Saboori & Kamali, 2011 and G. myrmecophilus (Berlese, 1892) (Mesostigmata: Laelapidae). Phrurolithus also represents the first record of the family Phrurolithidae in Malta. Notes on the biology and local distribution of each species are provided, including ant-myrmecophile associations, of which two appear to be previously unknown: the occurrence of Smynthurodes betae Westwood, 1849 (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in the nest of Plagiolepis pygmaea (Latreille, 1798) and Phrurolithus in the nest of Pheidole pallidula (Nylander, 1849). Fourteen additional species are found to be either only occasionally myrmecophilic, accidental ant-guests or potentially myrmecophilous, the latter remaining ambiguous due to a lack of knowledge of their biology. Of these, the family Caeculidae (Arachnida: Trombidiformes) represents a new record for the Maltese Islands, on the basis of Microcaeculus sp. occurring in a nest of Camponotus barbaricus Emery, 1905. Preliminary results indicate that Messor nests may be repositories of considerable myrmecophile diversity, with the most unique symbionts.
Future Trends in Obolodiplosis robiniae Distribution across Eurasian Continent under Global Climate Change
Authors: Zhao Jia-Qiang , Gao Tai , Du Jing-Jing , Shi Juan
Published: January 2023

Obolodiplosis robiniae was discovered in Eurasia at the beginning of the 21st century. In this study, we explore the present and future (in the years 2050 and 2070) trends in the potential distribution of O. robiniae in Eurasia under diverse climate change scenarios based on a maximum entropy model. Our findings indicated that the current potential distribution area of O. robiniae is within the range of 21°34′ and 65°39′ N in the Eurasian continent. The primary factor controlling the distribution of O. robiniae is temperature. The highly and moderately suitable areas are mainly distributed in the semi-humid and semi-arid regions, which also happen to be the locations where the host black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) grows at its fastest rate. The forecast of the potential distribution area of O. robiniae revealed that the species would benefit from global warming. The region suitable for the habitat of O. robiniae is characterized by a large-scale northward expansion trend and an increase in temperature. This information would help the forestry quarantine departments of Asian and European countries provide early warnings on the probable distribution areas of O. robiniae and provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of O. robiniae spread and outbreaks.
High Level of Blood Eosinophils and Localization of Bronchiectasis in Patients with Severe Asthma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Quaranta Vitaliano Nicola , Dragonieri Silvano , Vulpi Maria Rosaria , Crimi Nunzio , Crimi Claudia , Santus Pierachille , Menzella Francesco , Pelaia Corrado , Scioscia Giulia , Caruso Cristiano , Bargagli Elena , Scichilone Nicola , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana
Published: January 2023

Background. Severe asthma and bronchiectasis are heterogeneous diseases that frequently coexist. The location of bronchiectasis is generally determined by specific underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. The aim of this study was to determine whether in a population suffering from both severe asthma and bronchiectasis there was a correlation between eosinophilic inflammation and localization of bronchiectasis. Methods. We enrolled 41 patients with coexisting bronchiectasis from eight different severe asthma center outpatient clinics and collected the following data: baseline characteristics, Asthma Control Test, Asthma Control Questionnaire, IgE level, blood count, high-resolution computed tomography and bronchiectasis-related parameters, skin prick test, FeNO50 and flow-volume spirometry. The study was retrospectively registered. Results. The presence of eosinophils > 1000 cells/μL was related to distribution of lower pulmonary bronchiectasis (9.1% upper lobes vs. 53.3% lower lobes, p = 0.014). Indeed, the presence of eosinophilic counts > 1000 increased the probability of lower localization of bronchiectasis compared to upper lobes (ODD 0.088 (0.010–0.772), p = 0.028). Conclusions. An increase in blood eosinophils > 1000 cells/μL seems to be associated with lower preferential localization of bronchiectasis with sparing of the upper lung lobes. This could represent a new potential radiological phenotype that could have a dedicated therapeutic strategy in the future.
Segmentation-Assisted Fully Convolutional Neural Network Enhances Deep Learning Performance to Identify Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Alam Minhaj , Zhao Emma , Lam Carson , Rubin Daniel
Published: January 2023

With the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) from the non-proliferative (NPDR) to proliferative (PDR) stage, the possibility of vision impairment increases significantly. Therefore, it is clinically important to detect the progression to PDR stage for proper intervention. We propose a segmentation-assisted DR classification methodology, that builds on (and improves) current methods by using a fully convolutional network (FCN) to segment retinal neovascularizations (NV) in retinal images prior to image classification. This study utilizes the Kaggle EyePacs dataset, containing retinal photographs from patients with varying degrees of DR (mild, moderate, severe NPDR and PDR. Two graders annotated the NV (a board-certified ophthalmologist and a trained medical student). Segmentation was performed by training an FCN to locate neovascularization on 669 retinal fundus photographs labeled with PDR status according to NV presence. The trained segmentation model was used to locate probable NV in images from the classification dataset. Finally, a CNN was trained to classify the combined images and probability maps into categories of PDR. The mean accuracy of segmentation-assisted classification was 87.71% on the test set (SD = 7.71%). Segmentation-assisted classification of PDR achieved accuracy that was 7.74% better than classification alone. Our study shows that segmentation assistance improves identification of the most severe stage of diabetic retinopathy and has the potential to improve deep learning performance in other imaging problems with limited data availability.
Pleural Effusions on MRI in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Liu Jin , Yin Xiaorui , Dev Hreedi , Luo Xianfu , Blumenfeld Jon D. , Rennert Hanna , Prince Martin R.
Published: January 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) has cystic fluid accumulations in the kidneys, liver, pancreas, arachnoid spaces as well as non-cystic fluid accumulations including pericardial effusions, dural ectasia and free fluid in the male pelvis. Here, we investigate the possible association of ADPKD with pleural effusion. ADPKD subjects (n = 268) and age-gender matched controls without ADPKD (n = 268) undergoing body magnetic resonance imaging from mid-thorax down into the pelvis were independently evaluated for pleural effusion by 3 blinded expert observers. Subjects with conditions associated with pleural effusion were excluded from both populations. Clinical and laboratory data as well as kidney, liver and spleen volume, pleural fluid volume, free pelvic fluid and polycystic kidney disease genotype were evaluated. Pleural effusions were observed in 56 of 268 (21%) ADPKD subjects compared with 21 of 268 (8%) in controls (p < 0.0001). In a subpopulation controlling for renal function by matching estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), 28 of 110 (25%) ADPKD subjects had pleural effusions compared to 5 of 110 (5%) controls (p < 0.001). Pleural effusions in ADPKD subjects were more prevalent in females (37/141; 26%) than males (19/127,15%; p = 0.02) and in males were weakly correlated with the presence of free pelvic fluid (r = 0.24, p = 0.02). ADPKD subjects with pleural effusions were younger (48 ± 14 years old vs. 43 ± 14 years old) and weighed less (77 vs. 70 kg; p ≤ 0.02) than those without pleural effusions. For ADPKD subjects with pleural effusions, the mean volume of fluid layering dependently in the posterior–inferior thorax was 19 mL and was not considered to be clinically significant. Pleural effusion is associated with ADPKD, but its role in the pathogenesis of ADPKD requires further evaluation.
Long-Lasting Therapies with High Doses of D-chiro-inositol: The Downside
Authors: Nordio Maurizio , Bezerra Espinola Maria Salomè , Bilotta Gabriele , Capoccia Elena , Montanino Oliva Mario
Published: January 2023

Background: Recent studies reported possible concerns following long-lasting treatments with high doses of D-chiro-inositol in women. However, to date, no clinical trial has investigated or validated these concerns. We addressed this issue both retrospectively and with a prospective pilot study. Methods: For the retrospective analysis, we searched our databases for insulin-resistant women who took 1200 mg/day D-chiro-inositol for 6 months. In our prospective study, we enrolled 10 healthy women to supplement with the same therapeutic scheme. We performed statistical analyses through the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Twenty women underwent 6 months of 1200 mg/day D-chiro-inositol. The treatment significantly decreased BMI, glycemia, insulinemia, HOMA-IR, serum levels of LH, total testosterone, and DHEAS. Serum estradiol rose and menstrual abnormalities occurred following the treatment. In our prospective study, we observed increases in serum levels of total testosterone and asprosin in healthy women. Conclusions: This is the first clinical evidence demonstrating that long-term treatments with high dosages of D-chiro-inositol can predispose women to hormonal and menstrual abnormalities. Moreover, the accumulation of D-chiro-inositol following such treatment regimen may lead to detrimental effects in non-reproductive tissues, as demonstrated by the increase in asprosin levels.
Correction: Sasaki et al. Automatic Determination of the Center of Macular Hole Using Optical Coherence Tomography En Face Images. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 3167
Authors: Sasaki Takanori , Shoji Takuhei , Kanno Junji , Ishii Hirokazu , Yoshikawa Yuji , Ibuki Hisashi , Shinoda Kei
Published: January 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]