bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotationplasty Salvage Procedure as an Effective Alternative to Femoral Amputation in an Adult With a History of Osteosarcoma: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Gaillard Jean , Fouasson-Chailloux Alban , Eveno Dominique , Bokobza Guillaume , Da Costa Marta , Heidar Romain , Pouedras Marie , Nich Christophe , Gouin François , Crenn Vincent
Published: January 2022

Rotationplasty or Borggreve-Van Ness surgery is lower limb salvage surgery, indicated mainly in the management of femoral bone sarcoma and congenital femur malformations in children. It can also be an interesting surgery option for managing chronic osteoarticular infections, or in cases of non union when curative therapy is no longer an option, as an alternative to femoral amputation. The principle of this surgery is to remove the affected knee and to apply a rotation of 180° to the distal part of the lower limb in order to give the ankle the function of a neo-knee. With the help of an adapted prosthesis, the aim is to allow patients to resume their social and professional activities by keeping most of their lower limb, thus avoiding the known complications of amputation (ghost limb pain, proprioceptive deficit, psychological disorders). Nevertheless, this surgery is complex and exceptional, with vascular, infectious, and psychological risks - the chimeric aspect of the lower limb may cause significant ill-being for the patient. This article reports the case of a 38-year-old patient consulting for management of a complex septic distal femoral non-union following osteosarcoma considered as being in remission. The patient underwent rotationplasty surgery on his left lower limb, with very good functional results and no surgical revision to date. In light of this particular case, we propose a didactic overview of the literature data concerning this surgery, especially in adulthood.
Next-Generation Technologies and Systems Biology for the Design of Novel Vaccines Against Apicomplexan Parasites
Authors: Tomazic Mariela Luján , Marugan-Hernandez Virginia , Rodriguez Anabel Elisa
Published: January 2022

Parasites of the phylum Apicomplexa are the causative agents of important diseases such as malaria, toxoplasmosis or cryptosporidiosis in humans, and babesiosis and coccidiosis in animals. Whereas the first human recombinant vaccine against malaria has been approved and recently recommended for wide administration by the WHO, most other zoonotic parasitic diseases lack of appropriate immunoprophylaxis. Sequencing technologies, bioinformatics, and statistics, have opened the “omics” era into apicomplexan parasites, which has led to the development of systems biology, a recent field that can significantly contribute to more rational design for new vaccines. The discovery of novel antigens by classical approaches is slow and limited to very few antigens identified and analyzed by each study. High throughput approaches based on the expansion of the “omics”, mainly genomics and transcriptomics have facilitated the functional annotation of the genome for many of these parasites, improving significantly the understanding of the parasite biology, interactions with the host, as well as virulence and host immune response. Developments in genetic manipulation in apicomplexan parasites have also contributed to the discovery of new potential vaccine targets. The present minireview does a comprehensive summary of advances in “omics”, CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, and in systems biology approaches applied to apicomplexan parasites of economic and zoonotic importance, highlighting their potential of the holistic view in vaccine development.
Intermediate-Variable-Based Distributed Fusion Estimation for Wind Turbine Systems
Authors: Yang Shengwei , Wang Rusheng , Zhou Jing , Chen Bo
Published: January 2022

In wind turbine systems, the state of the generator is always disturbed by various unknown perturbances, which leads to system instability and inaccurate state estimation. In this paper, an intermediate-variable-based distributed fusion estimation method is proposed for the state estimation problem in wind turbine systems. By constructing an augmented state error system and using the idea of bounded recursive optimization, the local estimators and distributed fusion criterion are designed, which can be used to estimate the disturbance signals and system states. Then, the local estimator gains and the distributed weighting fusion matrices are obtained by solving the established convex optimization problems. Furthermore, a compensation strategy is designed by using the estimated disturbance signals, which can potentially reduce the influence of the disturbance signals on the system state. Finally, a numerical simulation is provided to show that the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy of the estimation of the wind turbine state and disturbance, and the superiority of the proposed method is illustrated as a comparison to the Kalman fusion method.
Management of Deleterious Effect of Fusarium oxysporum Associated with Red Palm Weevil Infestation of Date Palm Trees
Authors: Ziedan El-Sayed H. E. , Hashem Mohamed , Mostafa Yasser S. , Alamri Saad
Published: January 2022

Red palm weevil (RPW) is a dangerous pest that infects the date palm tree and makes tunnels in the tree’s trunk. RPW infection is followed by secondary invaders of microorganisms that cause degradation of the trunk tissues leading to toppling the crown and death of the tree in a short time. This study showed that Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. was the common fungal species isolated from the root and trunk tissues of the date trees infested with RPW, which recorded 100% of frequency. Pathogenicity of 4 isolates of F. oxysporum was confirmed on date palm seeds and seedlings. The results confirmed that all isolates involved in rot of the germinated seeds (40–100% incidence), root rot, and death of palm seedlings (20–100%) under artificial infection as well as degradation of date palm petioles. Application of 20 L/palm of systemic fungicide (Topsin) at 1% as foliar and soil drench of date palm for successive three times successfully reduced development of the deterioration and suppressed the growth of F. oxysporum. Interestingly this fungicide did not suppress the growth of Trichoderma viride Pers. So, our results recommend this fungicide to suppress the pathological and degradable activities of F. oxysporum during the integrated pest management of RPW on date palm trees.
Efficiency of Methodologies Used in the Evaluation of the Weed Seed Bank under Mediterranean Conditions
Authors: Gandía María , Del Monte Juan , Santín-Montanyá María
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of two methodologies, seed germination (SG) and seed physical extraction SPE), to assess the weed community from two locations with different soil and climatic conditions: M, with dry and low soil fertility, and S with high soil humidity and fertility. Over three years of study, the analysis of both methodologies confirmed differences in seed bank composition. In M, fewer seeds were recorded by SG than SPE (13.5% and 86.5% respectively), while in S, the difference between percentages was less (31.58% by SG and 68.41% by SPE). Our findings confirmed that Portulaca oleracea L., Amaranthus blitoides S. Watson and Chenopodium album L. were abundantly found in M. Anacyclus clavatus (Def.) Res. seeds were also found, mainly detected by SG. In S, Stellaria media (L.) Vill. was widely found. All species found in S were similarly detected by SG and SPE. The results confirmed that climatic and soil conditions influenced the efficiency of the methodology used to assess the seed bank. M conditions led to an increased seed reservoir, and both methodologies were necessary to obtain the seed bank composition. In S conditions, the seed bank was continuously renewed, and either one of methodologies defined the seed bank composition equally well.
Correction: Williams et al. Kinetics and Kinematics of Working Trials Dogs: The Impact of Long Jump Length on Peak Vertical Landing Force and Joint Angulation. Animals 2021, 11, 2804
Authors: Williams Ellen , Carter Anne , Boyd Jacqueline
Published: January 2022

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Quantifying the Relationship between Antibiotic Use in Food-Producing Animals and Antibiotic Resistance in Humans
Authors: Emes David , Naylor Nichola , Waage Jeff , Knight Gwenan
Published: January 2022

It is commonly asserted that agricultural production systems must use fewer antibiotics in food-producing animals in order to mitigate the global spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In order to assess the cost-effectiveness of such interventions, especially given the potential trade-off with rural livelihoods, we must quantify more precisely the relationship between food-producing animal antimicrobial use and AMR in humans. Here, we outline and compare methods that can be used to estimate this relationship, calling on key literature in this area. Mechanistic mathematical models have the advantage of being rooted in epidemiological theory, but may struggle to capture relevant non-epidemiological covariates which have an uncertain relationship with human AMR. We advocate greater use of panel regression models which can incorporate these factors in a flexible way, capturing both shape and scale variation. We provide recommendations for future panel regression studies to follow in order to inform cost-effectiveness analyses of AMR containment interventions across the One Health spectrum, which will be key in the age of increasing AMR.
Potential Therapeutic Use of the Rosemary Diterpene Carnosic Acid for Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Long-COVID through NRF2 Activation to Counteract the NLRP3 Inflammasome
Authors: Satoh Takumi , Trudler Dorit , Oh Chang-Ki , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: January 2022

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis [family Lamiaceae]), an herb of economic and gustatory repute, is employed in traditional medicines in many countries. Rosemary contains carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CS), abietane-type phenolic diterpenes, which account for most of its biological and pharmacological actions, although claims have also been made for contributions of another constituent, rosmarinic acid. This review focuses on the potential applications of CA and CS for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), in part via inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome. CA exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects via phase 2 enzyme induction initiated by activation of the KEAP1/NRF2 transcriptional pathway, which in turn attenuates NLRP3 activation. In addition, we propose that CA-related compounds may serve as therapeutics against the brain-related after-effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, termed “long-COVID.” One factor that contributes to COVID-19 is cytokine storm emanating from macrophages as a result of unregulated inflammation in and around lung epithelial and endovascular cells. Additionally, neurological aftereffects such as anxiety and “brain fog” are becoming a major issue for both the pandemic and post-pandemic period. Many reports hold that unregulated NLRP3 inflammasome activation may potentially contribute to the severity of COVID-19 and its aftermath. It is therefore possible that suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activity may prove efficacious against both acute lung disease and chronic neurological after-effects. Because CA has been shown to not only act systemically but also to penetrate the blood–brain barrier and reach the brain parenchyma to exert neuroprotective effects, we discuss the evidence that CA or rosemary extracts containing CA may represent an effective countermeasure against both acute and chronic pathological events initiated by SARS-CoV-2 infection as well as other chronic neurodegenerative diseases including AD and PD.
Failure Assessment of Embankment Dam Elements: Case Study of the Pirot Reservoir System
Authors: Rakić Dragan , Stojković Milan , Ivetić Damjan , Živković Miroslav , Milivojević Nikola
Published: January 2022

The paper presents a functionality investigation of the key dam elements based on finite element analysis. A detailed analysis of filtration processes, dam strength, and the surrounding rock mass was conducted. Dam elements whose potential damage could jeopardize the normal functioning of the embankment dam have been identified. A particular emphasis was placed on the analysis of dam elements that have been identified as weak points. A numerical analysis of the impact of individual grout curtain zone failure on leakage under the dam body, a strength analysis of the overflow section, as well as the analysis of the slope stability that can compromise the functioning of the spillway have been performed. To analyze the partial stability of individual structural elements, a new measure of local stability was introduced as the remaining load-bearing capacity. As a case study, the Zavoj dam, which is a part of the Pirot reservoir system in the Republic of Serbia, was used. Investigation revealed that local damage to the grout curtain will not significantly increase leakage under the dam body, the overflow section is one of the most robust elements of the dam, but the slope above the spillway can compromise the functioning of the overflow and thus the safety of the entire dam. Based on the analysis of the results of the remaining load-bearing capacity, the dependence of the spillway capacity on earthquake intensity has been defined. The established relationship represents a surrogate model for further assessment of dynamic resilience of the complex multipurpose reservoir system, within the scope of the advanced reservoir system management.
Acoustic-Field Beamforming-Based Generalized Coherence Factor for Handheld Ultrasound
Authors: Hu Chang-Lin , Li Chien-Ju , Cheng I-Cheng , Sun Peng-Zhi , Hsu Brian , Cheng Hsiao-Hsuan , Lin Zhan-Sheng , Lin Chii-Wann , Li Meng-Lin
Published: January 2022

Handheld ultrasound devices have been widely used for diagnostic applications. The use of the acoustic-field beamforming (AFB) method has been proposed for handheld ultrasound to reduce electricity consumption and avoid battery and unwanted heat issues. However, the image quality, such as the contrast ratio and contrast-to-noise-ratio, are poorer with this technique than with the conventional delay-and-sum method. To address the problems associated with the worse image quality in AFB imaging, in this paper we propose the use of an AFB-based generalized coherence factor (GCF) technique, in which the GCF weighting developed for adaptive beamforming is extended to AFB. Simulation data, experimental results, and in vivo testing verified the efficacy of our proposed AFB-based GCF technique.
A Case of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Triggered by Disseminated Tuberculosis and Hairy Cell Leukaemia after SARS-CoV2 Infection
Authors: Cellini Alessandro , Visentin Andrea , Arangio Febbo Massimiliano , Vedovato Susanna , Marinello Serena , Tiberio Ivo , Trentin Livio , Gurrieri Carmela
Published: January 2022

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare but life-threatening disease that can occur either as a primary condition or as a consequence of a variety of triggers, including infectious diseases. Here we present a case of secondary HLH triggered by systemic Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a 59-year-old immunocompromised Hairy Cell Leukemia and previous SARS-CoV2 infected patient. This case report underlines the role of Etoposide-based chemotherapy in treating the severe inflammation that is the defining factor of HLH, suggesting how, even when such therapy is not effective, it may still give the clinicians time to identify the underlying condition and start the appropriate targeted therapy. Moreover, it gives insight on our decision to treat the underlying haematological condition with a BRAF-targeted therapy rather than purine analog-based chemotherapy to reduce the risk of future severe infections.
Radar Echo Spatiotemporal Sequence Prediction Using an Improved ConvGRU Deep Learning Model
Authors: He Wei , Xiong Taisong , Wang Hao , He Jianxin , Ren Xinyue , Yan Yilin , Tan Linyin
Published: January 2022

Precipitation nowcasting is extremely important in disaster prevention and mitigation, and can improve the quality of meteorological forecasts. In recent years, deep learning-based spatiotemporal sequence prediction models have been widely used in precipitation nowcasting, obtaining better prediction results than numerical weather prediction models and traditional radar echo extrapolation results. Because existing deep learning models rarely consider the inherent interactions between the model input data and the previous output, model prediction results do not sufficiently meet the actual forecast requirement. We propose a Modified Convolutional Gated Recurrent Unit (M-ConvGRU) model that performs convolution operations on the input data and previous output of a GRU network. Moreover, this adopts an encoder–forecaster structure to better capture the characteristics of spatiotemporal correlation in radar echo maps. The results of multiple experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. The balanced mean absolute error (B-MAE) and balanced mean squared error (B-MSE) of M-ConvGRU are slightly lower than Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM), but the mean absolute error (MAE) and mean squared error (MSE) of M-ConvGRU are 6.29% and 10.25% lower than ConvLSTM, and the prediction accuracy and prediction performance for strong echo regions were also improved.
Effects of Periodic Tidal Elevations on the Air-Sea Momentum and Turbulent Heat Fluxes in the East China Sea
Authors: Han Yuting , Liu Yuxin , Jiang Xingwei , Lin Mingsen , Li Yangang , Yang Bo , Xu Changsan , Yuan Lingling , Luo Jingxin , Liu Kexiu , Chen Xingrong , Yu Fujiang , Song Xiangzhou
Published: January 2022

Using bulk formulas, two-year platform (fastened to the seabed) hourly observations from 2016 to 2017 in the East China Sea (121.6° E, 32.4° N) are used to investigate the role of the tide-induced surface elevation in changing the fixed observational height and modifying the momentum and air-sea turbulent heat fluxes. The semidiurnal tide-dominated elevation anomalies ranging from −3.6 to 3.9 m change the fixed platform observational height. This change causes hourly differences in the wind stress and latent and sensible heat fluxes between estimates with and without considering surface elevation, with values ranging from −1.5 × 10−3 Nm−2, −10.2 Wm−2, and −3.6 Wm−2 to 2.2 × 10−3 Nm−2, 8.4 Wm−2, and 4.6 Wm−2, respectively. More significant differences occur during spring tides. The differences show weak dependence on the temperature, indicating weak seasonal variations. The mean (maximum) difference percentage relative to the mean magnitude is approximately 3.5% (7%), 1.5% (3%), and 1.5% (3%) for the wind stress and latent and sensible heat fluxes, respectively. The boundary layer stability (BLS) can convert from near-neutral conditions to stable and unstable states in response to tide-induced changes in the observational height, with a probability of occurrence of 2%. Wind anomalies play dominant roles in determining the hourly anomalies of the latent heat flux, regardless of the state of the BLS. Extreme cases, including the cold air outbreak in 2016, tropical cyclones Meranti in 2016, and Ampil in 2018, are also examined. This study will facilitate future observation-reanalysis comparisons in the studied coastal region where ocean–atmosphere-land interactive processes are significant.
On Complex Numbers in Higher Dimensions
Authors: Richter Wolf-Dieter
Published: January 2022

The geometric approach to generalized complex and three-dimensional hyper-complex numbers and more general algebraic structures being based upon a general vector space structure and a geometric multiplication rule which was only recently developed is continued here in dimension four and above. To this end, the notions of geometric vector product and geometric exponential function are extended to arbitrary finite dimensions and some usual algebraic rules known from usual complex numbers are replaced with new ones. An application for the construction of directional probability distributions is presented.
Biocide Use in the Beverage Industry: Consumers’ Knowledge and Label Preferences Relating to the Need and Usefulness of Biocides with Particular Reference to Dairy Beverage Products in New Zealand and China
Authors: Cong Lei , Bremer Phil , Fang Eddy , Li Linling , Mirosa Miranda
Published: January 2022

Biocides, in the form of sanitisers and disinfectants, are used extensively to reduce the risk of microbial contamination to beverage products and to ensure the safety of potable water used in processing. To better understand consumers’ perceptions of biocide use and to explore messaging strategies regarding their importance to ensure product safety, eight focus groups were conducted in New Zealand (n = 4) and China (n = 4). Consumers generally did not understand why or how biocides were used. In both countries, their most trustworthy source of information on biocide use was government sources. New Zealand and Chinese participants did not like the word “biocide” mentioned on labels due to its perceived negative connotations. Interestingly, acceptance for the word was higher if the phrase “environmentally friendly” was simultaneously communicated. The findings from this study have provided the beverage industry with guidance on how best to initiate conversations with consumers on the use of biocides.
Comprehensive Studies of the Processes of the Molecular Transfer of the Momentum, Thermal Energy and Mass in the Nutrient Media of Biotechnological Industries
Authors: Novoselov Aleksandr G. , Sorokin Sergei A. , Baranov Igor V. , Martyushev Nikita V. , Rumiantceva Olga N. , Fedorov Aleksey A.
Published: January 2022

This article puts forward arguments in favor of the necessity of conducting complex measurements of molecular transport coefficients that quantitatively determine the coefficients of dynamic viscosity, thermal diffusivity and molecular diffusion. The rheological studies have been carried out on the viscometers of two types: those with a rolling ball (HÖPPLER® KF 3.2.), and those with a rotary one (Rheotest RN 4.1.). The thermophysical studies have been performed using the analyzer Hot Disk TPS 2500S. The measurements have been taken in the temperature range of 283 to 363 K. The concentration of dry substances has varied from 16.2 to 77.7% dry wt. An empirical equation for calculating the density of aqueous solutions of beet molasses has been obtained. The diagrams of the dependence of the dynamic viscosity on the shear rate in the range of 1 s−1 to 500 s−1 at different temperatures have been provided. The diagrams of the dependence of the coefficients of thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity on the temperature and the concentration of dry substances have been presented, and empirical equations for their calculation have been obtained. The findings can be used for engineering calculations of hydrodynamic and heat-exchange processes in biotechnological equipment.
The Important Role of Sex-Related Sox Family Genes in the Sex Reversal of the Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis)
Authors: Wang Yubin , Luo Xiangzhong , Qu Chunjuan , Xu Tao , Zou Guiwei , Liang Hongwei
Published: January 2022

The Chinese soft-shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis shows obvious sexual dimorphism. The economic and nutrition value of male individuals are significantly higher than those of female individuals. Pseudo-females which are base to all-male breeding have been obtained by estrogen induction, while the gene function and molecular mechanism of sex reversal remain unclear in P. sinensis. Here, comparative transcriptome analyses of female, male, and pseudo-female gonads were performed, and 14,430 genes differentially expressed were identified in the pairwise comparison of three groups. GO and KEGG analyses were performed on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which mainly concentrated on steroid hormone synthesis. Furthermore, the results of gonadal transcriptome analysis revealed that 10 sex-related sox genes were differentially expressed in males vs. female, male vs. pseudo-female, and female vs. pseudo-female. Through the differential expression analysis of these 10 sox genes in mature gonads, six sox genes related to sex reversal were further screened. The molecular mechanism of the six sox genes in the embryo were analyzed during sex reversal after E2 treatment. In mature gonads, some sox family genes, such as sox9sox12, and sox30 were highly expressed in the testis, while sox1, sox3, sox6, sox11, and sox17 were lowly expressed. In the male embryos, exogenous estrogen can activate the expression of sox3 and inhibit the expression of sox8, sox9, and sox11. In summary, sox3 may have a role in the process of sex reversal from male to pseudo-female, when sox8 and sox9 are inhibited. Sox family genes affect both female and male pathways in the process of sex reversal, which provides a new insight for the all-male breeding of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle.
Exogenous Application of Methyl Jasmonate Increases Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds in Pyrenean Oak Trees, Quercus pyrenaica
Authors: Amo Luisa , Mrazova Anna , Saavedra Irene , Sam Katerina
Published: January 2022

The tri-trophic interactions between plants, insects, and insect predators and parasitoids are often mediated by chemical cues. The attraction to herbivore-induced Plant Volatiles (HIPVs) has been well documented for arthropod predators and parasitoids, and more recently for insectivorous birds. The attraction to plant volatiles induced by the exogenous application of methyl jasmonate (MeJA), a phytohormone typically produced in response to an attack of chewing herbivores, has provided controversial results both in arthropod and avian predators. In this study, we examined whether potential differences in the composition of bouquets of volatiles produced by herbivore-induced and MeJA-treated Pyrenean oak trees (Quercus pyrenaica) were related to differential avian attraction, as results from a previous study suggested. Results showed that the overall emission of volatiles produced by MeJA-treated and herbivore-induced trees did not differ, and were higher than emissions of Control trees, although MeJA treatment showed a more significant reaction and released several specific compounds in contrast to herbivore-induced trees. These slight yet significant differences in the volatile composition may explain why avian predators were not so attracted to MeJA-treated trees, as observed in a previous study in this plant-herbivore system. Unfortunately, the lack of avian visits to the experimental trees in the current study did not allow us to confirm this result and points out the need to perform more robust predator studies.
Uncovering the Role of PhzC as DAHP Synthase in Shikimate Pathway of Pseudomonas chlororaphis HT66
Authors: Wang Songwei , Liu Dongliang , Bilal Muhammad , Wang Wei , Zhang Xuehong
Published: January 2022

DAHP synthase catalyzes the first step in the shikimate pathway, deriving the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids (Trp, Phe and Tyr), phenazine-1-carboxamide, folic acid, and ubiquinone in Pseudomonas chlororaphis. In this study, we identified and characterized one DAHP synthase encoding gene phzC, which differs from the reported DAHP synthase encoding genes aroF, aroG and aroH in E. coli. PhzC accounts for approximately 90% of the total DAHP synthase activities in P. chlororaphis HT66 and plays the most critical role in four DAHP synthases in the shikimate pathway. Inactivation of phzC resulted in the reduction of PCN production by more than 90%, while the absence of genes aroF, aroG and aroH reduced PCN yield by less than 15%, and the production of PCN was restored after the complementation of gene phzC. Moreover, the results showed that phzC in P. chlororaphis HT66 is not sensitive to feedback inhibition. This study demonstrated that gene phzC is essential for PCN biosynthesis. The expression level of both phzC and phzE genes are not inhibited in feedback by PCN production due to the absence of a loop region required for allosteric control reaction. This study highlighted the importance of PhzC and applying P. chlororaphis for shikimate pathway-derived high-value biological production.
First Survey about Current Practices of Environmental Monitoring Programs within French Agri-Food Industries
Authors: De Oliveira Mota Juliana , Kooh Pauline , Jaffrès Emmanuel , Prévost Hervé , Maignien Thomas , Arnich Nathalie , Sanaa Moez , Boué Géraldine , Federighi Michel
Published: January 2022

Food safety is a constant challenge for stakeholders in the food industry. To manage the likelihood of microbiological contamination, food safety management systems must be robust, including food and environmental testing. Environmental monitoring programs (EMP) have emerged this last decade aiming to validate cleaning–sanitation procedures and other environmental pathogen control programs. The need to monitor production environments has become evident because of recent foodborne outbreaks. However, the boundaries of environmental monitoring are not only limited to the management of pathogens but also extend to spoilage and hygiene indicators, microorganisms, allergens, and other hygiene monitoring. Surfaces in production environments can be a source of contamination, either through ineffective cleaning and disinfection procedures or through contamination during production by flows or operators. This study analyses the current practices of 37 French agri-food industries (small, medium, or large), reporting their objectives for EMPs, microbial targets, types, numbers and frequency of sampling, analysis of results, and types of corrective actions.
Polysaccharide Based Polymers Produced by Scabby Cankered Cactus Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) Infected by Neofusicoccum batangarum: Composition, Structure, and Chemico-Physical Properties
Authors: Santagata Gabriella , Cimmino Alessio , Poggetto Giovanni Dal , Zannini Domenico , Masi Marco , Emendato Alessandro , Surico Giuseppe , Evidente Antonio
Published: January 2022

Neofusiccocum batangarum is the causal agent of scabby canker of cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.). The symptoms of this disease are characterized by crusty, perennial cankers, with a leathery, brown halo. Characteristically, a viscous polysaccharide exudate, caking on contact with air, leaks from cankers and forms strips or cerebriform masses on the surface of cactus pear cladodes. When this polysaccharide mass was partial purified, surprisingly, generated a gel. The TLC analysis and the HPLC profile of methyl 2-(polyhydroxyalkyl)-3-(o-tolylthiocarbomoyl)-thiazolidine-4R-carboxylates obtained from the mixture of monosaccharides produced by acid hydrolysis of the three EPSs examined in this research work [the polysaccharide component of the exudate (EPSC) and the EPSs extracted from asymptomatic (EPSH) and symptomatic (EPSD) cladodes] showed the presence of d-galactose, l-rhamnose, and d-glucose in a 1:1:0.5 ratio in EPSC while d-galactose, l-rhamnose, d-glucose, and d-xylose at the same ratio were observed in EPSH and EPSD. The presence of uronic acid residues in EPSC was also showed by solid state NMR and IR investigation. Furthermore, this manuscript reports the chemical-physical characterization of the gel produced by the infected cactus pear.
Role of Fibroblasts and Myofibroblasts on the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Guler Zeliha , Roovers Jan Paul
Published: January 2022

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a multifactorial connective tissue disorder caused by damage to the supportive structures of the pelvic floor, leading to the descent of pelvic organs in the vagina. In women with POP, fibroblast function is disturbed or altered, which causes impaired collagen metabolism that affects the mechanical properties of the tissue. Ideal surgical repair, either native tissue repair or POP surgery using an implant, aims to create a functional pelvic floor that is load-bearing, activating fibroblasts to regulate collagen metabolism without creating fibrotic tissue. Fibroblast function plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of POP by directly affecting the connective tissue quality. On the other hand, fibroblasts determine the success of the POP treatment, as the fibroblast-to-(myo)fibroblast transition is the key event during wound healing and tissue repair. In this review, we aim to resolve the question of “cause and result” for the fibroblasts in the development and treatment of POP. This review may contribute to preventing the development and progress of anatomical abnormalities involved in POP and to optimizing surgical outcomes.
Training History-Dependent Functional Role of EMG Model-Predicted Antagonist Moments in Knee Extensor Moment Generation in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Hortobágyi Tibor , DeVita Paul , Brady Robert , Rider Patrick
Published: January 2022

Resistance training (RT) improves the skeletal muscle’s ability to generate maximal voluntary force and is accompanied by changes in the activation of the antagonist muscle which is not targeted primarily by RT. However, the nature and role of neural adaptation to RT in the antagonist muscle is paradoxical and not well understood. We compared moments, agonist muscle activation, antagonist activation, agonist-antagonist coactivation, and electromyographic (EMG) model-predicted moments generated by antagonist hamstring muscle coactivation during isokinetic knee extension in leg strength-trained (n = 10) and untrained (n = 11) healthy, younger adults. Trained vs. untrained adults were up to 58% stronger. During knee extension, hamstring activation was 1.6-fold greater in trained vs. untrained adults (p = 0.022). This hamstring activation produced 2.6-fold greater model-predicted antagonist moments during knee extension in the trained (42.7 ± 19.55 Nm) vs. untrained group (16.4 ± 12.18 Nm; p = 0.004), which counteracted (reduced) quadriceps knee extensor moments ~43 Nm (0.54 Nm·kg−1) and by ~16 Nm (0.25 Nm·kg−1) in trained vs. untrained. Antagonist hamstring coactivation correlated with decreases and increases, respectively, in quadriceps moments in trained and untrained. The EMG model-predicted antagonist moments revealed training history-dependent functional roles in knee extensor moment generation.
The Use of Drosophila to Understand Psychostimulant Responses
Authors: Philyaw Travis James , Rothenfluh Adrian , Titos Iris
Published: January 2022

The addictive properties of psychostimulants such as cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate are based on their ability to increase dopaminergic neurotransmission in the reward system. While cocaine and methamphetamine are predominately used recreationally, amphetamine and methylphenidate also work as effective therapeutics to treat symptoms of disorders including attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although both the addictive properties of psychostimulant drugs and their therapeutic efficacy are influenced by genetic variation, very few genes that regulate these processes in humans have been identified. This is largely due to population heterogeneity which entails a requirement for large samples. Drosophila melanogaster exhibits similar psychostimulant responses to humans, a high degree of gene conservation, and allow performance of behavioral assays in a large population. Additionally, amphetamine and methylphenidate reduce impairments in fly models of ADHD-like behavior. Therefore, Drosophila represents an ideal translational model organism to tackle the genetic components underlying the effects of psychostimulants. Here, we break down the many assays that reliably quantify the effects of cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate in Drosophila. We also discuss how Drosophila is an efficient and cost-effective model organism for identifying novel candidate genes and molecular mechanisms involved in the behavioral responses to psychostimulant drugs.
The Current Role of Parathyroid Fine-Needle Biopsy (P-FNAB) with iPTH-Washout Concentration (iPTH-WC) in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Single Center Experience and Literature Review
Authors: Obołończyk Łukasz , Karwacka Izabela , Wiśniewski Piotr , Sworczak Krzysztof , Osęka Tomasz
Published: January 2022

Introduction. Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a condition characterized by disorders of calcium–phosphate metabolism and bone metabolism caused by pathological overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH). The diagnosis of overt PHPT is based on the presence of clinical symptoms and laboratory abnormalities typical of this condition: hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria and elevated iPTH levels. Imaging studies are not used for diagnostic purposes; they are performed to localize the parathyroid glands prior to potential surgical treatment. Technetium 99 m sestamibi scintigraphy (Tc99 m-MIBI) is the gold standard in the assessment of pathologically altered parathyroid glands. Other diagnostic options include cervical ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). Parathyroid biopsy (P-FNAB) with iPTH washout concentration (iPTH-WC) assessment is still an underestimated method of preoperative parathyroid gland localization. Few studies have reported the utility of US-guided P-FNAB in preoperative assessment of parathyroid lesions. The aim of the study was to present our experience with 143 P-FNAB with iPTH-WC assessment. Material and methods. Laboratory results, US findings, P-FNAB complications and comparison with other imaging techniques were described and analyzed. Results. In 133 (93.0) patients, iPTH washout-to-serum ratio exceeded threshold level 0.5 and were classified as positive results. Median iPTH-WC in this group was 16,856 pg/mL, and the iPTH-WC to serum iPTH ratio was 158. There was no correlation between iPTH-WC and serum PTH, serum calcium, parathyroid gland volume and shape index. In the group of 46 operated patients, 44 demonstrated positive iPTH-WC results, which corresponds to a sensitivity of 95.6%. In Tc99-MIBI, radiotracer retention was found in 17 cases (in 24 MIBI performed), which corresponds to a sensitivity of 52.2%. P-FNAB did not cause any major side effects −92.5% of all patients had no or mild adverse events after this procedure. Conclusions. P-FNAB with iPTH-WC is a reliable method in parathyroid adenoma localization during PHPT. Its sensitivity for diagnosis of PHPT is much higher than that of Tc99-MIBI, and in some situations, P-FNAB with iPTH-WC may even replace that method. Furthermore, cost-effectiveness of iPTH-WC is at least similar to that of Tc99-MIBI. Complications of P-FNAB are mild and we can describe this method as a safe procedure.
Chitosan Cross-Linking with Acetaldehyde Acetals
Authors: Pestov Alexander , Privar Yuliya , Slobodyuk Arseny , Boroda Andrey , Bratskaya Svetlana
Published: January 2022

Here we demonstrate the possibility of using acyclic diethylacetal of acetaldehyde (ADA) with low cytotoxicity for the fabrication of hydrogels via Schiff bases formation between chitosan and acetaldehyde generated in situ from acetals in chitosan acetate solution. This approach is more convenient than a direct reaction between chitosan and acetaldehyde due to the better commercial availability and higher boiling point of the acetals. Rheological data confirmed the formation of intermolecular bonds in chitosan solution after the addition of acetaldehyde diethyl acetal at an equimolar NH2: acetal ratio. The chemical structure of the reaction products was determined using elemental analysis and 13C NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The formed chitosan-acetylimine underwent further irreversible redox transformations yielding a mechanically stable hydrogel insoluble in a broad pH range. The reported reaction is an example of when an inappropriate selection of acid type for chitosan dissolution prevents hydrogel formation.
Operational Carbon Change in Commercial Buildings under the Carbon Neutral Goal: A LASSO–WOA Approach
Authors: Xiang Xiwang , Ma Xin , Ma Zhili , Ma Minda
Published: January 2022

The rapid growth of energy consumption in commercial building operations has hindered the pace of carbon emission reduction in the building sector in China. This study used historical data to model the carbon emissions of commercial building operations, the LASSO regression was applied to estimate the model results, and the whale optimization algorithm was used to optimize the nonlinear parameter. The key findings show the following: (1) The major driving forces of carbon emissions from commercial buildings in China were found to be the population size and energy intensity of carbon emissions, and their elastic coefficients were 0.6346 and 0.2487, respectively. (2) The peak emissions of the commercial building sector were 1264.81 MtCO2, and the peak year was estimated to be 2030. Overall, this study analyzed the historical emission reduction levels and prospective peaks of carbon emissions from China’s commercial buildings from a new perspective. The research results are helpful for governments and decision makers to formulate effective emission reduction policies and can also provide references for the low-carbon development of other countries and regions.
Background to the Monolithicity Factors for the Assessment of Jacketed Reinforced Concrete Columns
Authors: Thermou Georgia E. , Kappos Andreas J.
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the background to the expressions adopted in the new Eurocode 8—3 for jacketed reinforced concrete columns. These are based on the commonly adopted concept of monolithicity factors (ratios of resistance of the jacketed section to that of an identical monolithic one). These factors are derived here in two ways: (i) by fitting experimental results for jacketed columns and (ii) by an extended parametric study of substandard reinforced concrete (R/C) members that were retrofitted by adding R/C jackets, analysed using a model developed by the authors that takes into account slip at the interface. Apart from the cross-section geometry and the thickness of the jacket, parameters of the investigation were the material properties of the core cross-section and the jacket, as well as the percentage of longitudinal reinforcement of the jacket and the percentage of dowels placed to connect the existing member to the jacket. It was found that the parameter that had the most visible effect on these factors was the normalised axial load (ν). The finally adopted factors are either simple functions of ν or constant values.
Structural Performance Assessment of Innovative Hollow Cellular Panels for Modular Flooring System
Authors: John Keerthana , Rahman Sherin , Kafle Bidur , Weiss Matthias , Hansen Klaus , Elchalakani Mohamed , Udawatta Nilupa , Hosseini M. Reza , Al-Ameri Riyadh
Published: January 2022

Lightweight modular construction has become an increasing need to meet the housing requirements around the world today. The benefits of modular construction ranging from rapid production, consistency in quality, sustainability, and ease of use have widened the scope for the construction of residential, commercial, and even emergency preparedness facilities. This study introduces novel floor panels that can be flat-packed and built into modular housing components on-site with minimal labour and assistance. The flooring system uses hollow cellular panels made of various configurations of trapezoidal steel sheets. The structural performance of three different configurations of these hollow flooring systems as a modular component is presented in this study by analysing the failure modes, load-displacement parameters, and strain behaviour. The study confirms significant advantages of the proposed hollow floor systems, with multi-cells reporting higher load-carrying capacity. The hollow flooring system performed well in terms of structural performance and ease in fabrication as opposed to the conventional formworks and commercial temporary flooring systems. The proposed flooring system promises efficient application as working platforms or formworks in temporary infrastructural facilities and emergency construction activities.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Delivery of Systemic Anti-Cancer Treatment at Guy’s Cancer Centre
Authors: Russell Beth , Moss Charlotte , Tsotra Eirini , Gousis Charalampos , Josephs Debra , Enting Deborah , Karampera Christina , Khan Muhammad , Roca Jose , Sita-Lumsden Ailsa , Owczarczyk Kasia , Wylie Harriet , Haire Anna , Smith Daniel , Zaki Kamarul , Swampillai Angela , Lei Mary , Manik Vishal , Michalarea Vasiliki , Kristeleit Rebecca , Mera Anca , Sawyer Elinor , Flanders Lucy , De Francesco Irene , Papa Sophie , Ross Paul , Spicer James , Dann Bill , Jogia Vikash , Shaunak Nisha , Kristeleit Hartmut , Rigg Anne , Montes Ana , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Dolly Saoirse
Published: January 2022

Background: This study aimed to assess the outcome of cancer patients undergoing systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) at our centre to help inform future clinical decision-making around SACT during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Patients receiving at least one episode of SACT for solid tumours at Guy’s Cancer Centre between 1 March and 31 May 2020 and the same period in 2019 were included in the study. Data were collected on demographics, tumour type/stage, treatment type (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, biological-targeted) and SARS-CoV2 infection. Results: A total of 2120 patients received SACT in 2020, compared to 2449 in 2019 (13% decrease). From 2019 to 2020, there was an increase in stage IV disease (62% vs. 72%), decrease in chemotherapy (42% vs. 34%), increase in immunotherapy (6% vs. 10%), but similar rates of biologically targeted treatments (37% vs. 38%). There was a significant increase in 1st and 2nd line treatments in 2020 (68% vs. 81%; p < 0.0001) and reduction in 3rd and subsequent lines (26% vs. 15%; p = 0.004) compared to 2019. Of the 2020 cohort, 2% patients developed SARS-CoV2 infections. Conclusions: These real-world data from a tertiary Cancer Centre suggest that despite the challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SACT was able to be continued without any significant effects on the mortality of solid-tumour patients. There was a low rate (2%) of SARS-CoV-2 infection which is comparable to the 1.4%-point prevalence in our total cancer population.