bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Folic Acid Supplementation on Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness Markers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bokayeva Kamila , Jamka Małgorzata , Banaszak Michalina , Makarewicz-Bukowska Aleksandra , Adamczak Ada , Chrobot Maria , Janicka Adrianna , Jaworska Natalia , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: September 2023

Folic acid might improve endothelial function, but the results are inconclusive. This systematic review evaluated the effect of folic acid supplementation on endothelial parameters and arterial stiffness in adults. The study protocol was registered with the PROSPERO database (CRD42021290195). The PubMed, Web of Sciences, Cochrane and Scopus databases were searched to identify English-language randomised controlled trials of the effect of folate supplementation on arterial stiffness and endothelial function markers in adults. There were significant differences between the effect of folic acid and placebo on flow-mediated dilation (random-effects model, standardized mean differences (SMD): 0.888, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.447, 1.329, p < 0.001) and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (random-effects model, SMD: −1.364, 95% CI: −2.164, −0.563, p < 0.001), but there was no significant difference in the central pulse wave velocity (fixed-effects model, SMD: −0.069, 95% CI: −0.264, 0.125, p = 0.485) and peripheral pulse wave velocity (fixed-effects model, SMD: −0.093, 95% CI: −0.263, 0.077, p = 0.284). In conclusion, folic acid might have a favourable effect on endothelial function but may not affect arterial stiffness. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Short-Term Cast Immobilization of a Unilateral Lower Extremity and Physical Inactivity Induce Postural Instability during Standing in Healthy Young Men
Authors: Ikeda Takuro , Oka Shinichiro , Tokuhiro Junya , Suzuki Akari , Matsuda Kensuke
Published: September 2023

Previous studies have reported an increased postural sway after short-term unilateral lower limb movement restriction, even in healthy subjects. However, the associations of motion limitation have not been fully established. The question of whether short-term lower limb physical inactivity and movement restriction affect postural control in the upright position remains. One lower limb of each participant was fixed with a soft bandage and medical splint for 10 h while the participant sat on a manual wheelchair. The participants were instructed to stand still for 60 s under eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions. Using a single force plate signal, we measured the center of pressure (COP) signal in the horizontal plane and calculated the total, anterior–posterior (A–P), and medial–lateral (M–L) path lengths, sway area, and mean COP displacements in A–P and M–L directions. The COP sway increased and the COP position during the upright stance shifted from the fixed to the non-fixed side after cast removal, compared to before the cast application, under both EO and EC conditions. These findings indicated that 10 h of unilateral lower limb movement restriction induced postural instability and postural control asymmetry, suggesting the acute adverse effects of cast immobilization.
Examining Saudi Physicians’ Approaches to Communicate Bad News and Bridging Generational Gaps
Authors: Al Zomia Ahmed Saad , AlHefdhi Hayfa A. , Alqarni Abdulrhman Mohammed , Aljohani Abdullah K. , Alshahrani Yazeed Sultan , Alnahdi Wejdan Abdullah , Algahtany Aws Mubarak , Youssef Naglaa , Ghazy Ramy Mohamed , Alqahtani Ali Abdullah , Deajim Mosab Abdulaziz
Published: September 2023

Breaking bad news is an intrinsic aspect of physicians’ clinical practices. This study aims to investigate how Saudi physicians manage the process of communicating bad news and explore potential differences in breaking bad news practices between young physicians (interns) and their older colleagues. From 1 March to 15 April 2023, ok an anonymous online cross-sectional survey was conducted to explore the communication practices of Saudi physicians concerning breaking bad news using the Communicating Bad News Questionnaire. The physicians were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling methods, and the survey questionnaire was distributed on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and WhatsApp. Data were analyzed using R version 4.2.1. A total of 782 physicians were included in this study. Male physicians represented 50.9% of the participants. Three-quarters (74.7%) were aged 25–30 years. The largest proportion of physicians (45.3%) were interns, followed by junior residents (22.9%), senior residents (11.0%), and specialists (6.5%). The median years of experience was 1.0, ranging from 0 to 45 years. Regarding the place of work, most physicians (86.6%) worked in hospitals, while 13.4% worked in primary healthcare centers. A total of 14.8% said they were not comfortable with discussing patients’/relatives’ issues (20.60 among interns vs. 10.50% among non-interns, χ2 = 27.50, p = 0.0001), 66.6% reported being trained to break bad news (59.60% among interns vs. 72.40% among non-interns, χ2 = 14.34, p = 0.001), 59.1% reported breaking bad news to the patient, 37.9% reported to the family, and 3.1% reported to both, with no significant difference between interns and non-interns. A substantial proportion of physicians reported feeling uncomfortable discussing sensitive issues with patients and their relatives despite having received training to deliver bad news and being willing to communicate bad news directly to patients. Notably, our analysis identified a significant disparity between intern and non-intern physicians, particularly in terms of their comfort level in addressing patient-related concerns and access to breaking bad news training.
A Novel Fuzzy Relative-Position-Coding Transformer for Breast Cancer Diagnosis Using Ultrasonography
Authors: Guo Yanhui , Jiang Ruquan , Gu Xin , Cheng Heng-Da , Garg Harish
Published: September 2023

Breast cancer is a leading cause of death in women worldwide, and early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems have been developed to assist doctors in identifying breast cancer on ultrasound images. In this paper, we propose a novel fuzzy relative-position-coding (FRPC) Transformer to classify breast ultrasound (BUS) images for breast cancer diagnosis. The proposed FRPC Transformer utilizes the self-attention mechanism of Transformer networks combined with fuzzy relative-position-coding to capture global and local features of the BUS images. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated on one benchmark dataset and compared with those obtained by existing Transformer approaches using various metrics. The experimental outcomes distinctly establish the superiority of the proposed method in achieving elevated levels of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F1 score (all at 90.52%), as well as a heightened area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (0.91), surpassing those attained by the original Transformer model (at 89.54%, 89.54%, 89.54%, and 0.89, respectively). Overall, the proposed FRPC Transformer is a promising approach for breast cancer diagnosis. It has potential applications in clinical practice and can contribute to the early detection of breast cancer.
Unveiling the Role of the Work Environment in the Quality of Life of Menopausal Physicians and Nurses
Authors: Bapayeva Gauri , Terzic Milan , Semenova Yuliya , Sarria-Santamera Antonio , Gusmanov Arnur , Aimagambetova Gulzhanat , Laganà Antonio Simone , Chiantera Vito , Kadroldinova Nazira , Ukybassova Talshyn , Kongrtay Kuralay , Abdukassimova Meruyert , Togyzbayeva Karlygash , Terzic Sanja
Published: September 2023

Background: There is a lack of scientific evidence regarding the specific challenges faced by menopausal medical professionals in different work settings. This study aims to investigate the relationship between work environment and the menopausal quality of life (QoL) in physicians and nurses. Methods: This survey was conducted using the Menopausal Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) with a sample of 35 menopausal physicians and 95 nurses employed in health facilities in Astana and Kyzylorda cities, Kazakhstan. Results: Physicians reported a higher frequency of menopausal symptoms compared to nurses. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05) for symptoms such as decreased productivity (60.00% vs. 38.20%), flatulence or gas pains (71.43% vs. 48.39%), weight gain (79.41% vs. 61.80%), changes in skin appearance (79.59% vs. 50.00%), and changes in sexual desire (58.82% vs. 33.70%). Physicians with managerial duties had a significantly higher occurrence of vasomotor symptoms compared to non-managerial physicians (mean 3.35 ± 2.14 vs. 1.69 ± 0.89) and also had a higher mean psychological score (mean 3.26 ± 1.28 vs. 2.29 ± 1.19). Conclusions: These findings reflect differences between the menopause effects related to work environment for doctors and nurses, and shed light on the specific challenges faced by them during menopause. In addition, it is important to consider socio-demographic and workplace-related factors in investigating their impact on the QoL.
Unique SARS-CoV-2 Variants, Tourism Metrics, and B.1.2 Emergence in Early COVID-19 Pandemic: A Correlation Analysis in South Dakota
Authors: Nahian Ahmed , Huber Victor C. , McFadden Lisa M.
Published: September 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, which is the source of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), was declared a pandemic in the March of 2020. Travel and tourism were severely impacted as restrictions were imposed to help slow the disease spread, but some states took alternative approaches to travel restrictions. This study investigated the spread of COVID-19 in South Dakota during the early pandemic period to better understand how tourism affected the movement of the virus within the region. Sequences from the fall of 2020 were retrieved from public sources. CDC and other sources were used to determine infections, deaths, and tourism metrics during this time. The data were analyzed using correlation and logistic regression. This study found that the number of unique variants per month was positively correlated with hotel occupancy, but not with the number of cases or deaths. Interestingly, the emergence of the B.1.2 variant in South Dakota was positively correlated with increased case numbers and deaths. Data show that states with a shelter-in-place order were associated with a slower emergence of the B.1.2 variant compared to states without such an order, including South Dakota. Findings suggest complex relationships between tourism, SARS-CoV-2 infections, and mitigation strategies. The unique approach that South Dakota adopted provided insights into the spread of the disease in areas without state-wide restrictions. Our results suggest both positive and negative aspects of this approach. Finally, our data highlight the need for future surveillance efforts, including efforts focused on identifying variants with known increased transmission potential to produce effective population health management.
FinChain-BERT: A High-Accuracy Automatic Fraud Detection Model Based on NLP Methods for Financial Scenarios
Authors: Yang Xinze , Zhang Chunkai , Sun Yizhi , Pang Kairui , Jing Luru , Wa Shiyun , Lv Chunli
Published: September 2023

This research primarily explores the application of Natural Language Processing (NLP) technology in precision financial fraud detection, with a particular focus on the implementation and optimization of the FinChain-BERT model. Firstly, the FinChain-BERT model has been successfully employed for financial fraud detection tasks, improving the capability of handling complex financial text information through deep learning techniques. Secondly, novel attempts have been made in the selection of loss functions, with a comparison conducted between negative log-likelihood function and Keywords Loss Function. The results indicated that the Keywords Loss Function outperforms the negative log-likelihood function when applied to the FinChain-BERT model. Experimental results validated the efficacy of the FinChain-BERT model and its optimization measures. Whether in the selection of loss functions or the application of lightweight technology, the FinChain-BERT model demonstrated superior performance. The utilization of Keywords Loss Function resulted in a model achieving 0.97 in terms of accuracy, recall, and precision. Simultaneously, the model size was successfully reduced to 43 MB through the application of integer distillation technology, which holds significant importance for environments with limited computational resources. In conclusion, this research makes a crucial contribution to the application of NLP in financial fraud detection and provides a useful reference for future studies.
Time-Series Neural Network: A High-Accuracy Time-Series Forecasting Method Based on Kernel Filter and Time Attention
Authors: Zhang Lexin , Wang Ruihan , Li Zhuoyuan , Li Jiaxun , Ge Yichen , Wa Shiyun , Huang Sirui , Lv Chunli
Published: September 2023

This research introduces a novel high-accuracy time-series forecasting method, namely the Time Neural Network (TNN), which is based on a kernel filter and time attention mechanism. Taking into account the complex characteristics of time-series data, such as non-linearity, high dimensionality, and long-term dependence, the TNN model is designed and implemented. The key innovations of the TNN model lie in the incorporation of the time attention mechanism and kernel filter, allowing the model to allocate different weights to features at each time point, and extract high-level features from the time-series data, thereby improving the model’s predictive accuracy. Additionally, an adaptive weight generator is integrated into the model, enabling the model to automatically adjust weights based on input features. Mainstream time-series forecasting models such as Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) and Long Short-Term Memory Networks (LSTM) are employed as baseline models and comprehensive comparative experiments are conducted. The results indicate that the TNN model significantly outperforms the baseline models in both long-term and short-term prediction tasks. Specifically, the RMSE, MAE, and R2 reach 0.05, 0.23, and 0.95, respectively. Remarkably, even for complex time-series data that contain a large amount of noise, the TNN model still maintains a high prediction accuracy.
Toxicity Assessment of Four Formulated Pyrethroid-Containing Binary Insecticides in Two Resistant Adult Tarnished Plant Bug (Lygus lineolaris) Populations
Authors: Du Yuzhe , Zhu Yucheng , Scheibener Shane , Portilla Maribel
Published: September 2023

Over the past several decades, the extensive use of pyrethroids has led to the development of resistance in many insect populations, including the economically damaging pest tarnished plant bug (TPB), Lygus lineolaris, on cotton. To manage TPB resistance, several commercially formulated pyrethroid-containing binary mixtures, in combination with neonicotinoids or avermectin are recommended for TPB control and resistance management in the mid-South USA. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity and resistance risks of four formulated pyrethroid-containing binary mixtures (Endigo, Leverage, Athena, and Hero) on one susceptible and two resistant TPB populations, which were field-collected in July (Field-R1) and October (Field-R2), respectively. Based on LC50 values, both resistant TPB populations displayed variable tolerance to the four binary mixtures, with Hero showing the highest resistance and Athena the lowest. Notably, the Field-R2 exhibited 1.5–3-fold higher resistance compared to the Field-R1 for all four binary insecticides. Moreover, both resistant TPB populations demonstrated significantly higher resistance ratios towards Hero and Leverage compared to their corresponding individual pyrethroid, while Endigo and Athena showed similar or lower resistance. This study also utilized the calculated additive index (AI) and co-toxicity coefficient (CTC) analysis, which revealed that the two individual components in Leverage exhibited antagonist effects against the two resistant TPB populations. In contrast, the two individual components in Endigo, Hero, and Athena displayed synergistic interactions. Considering that Hero is a mixture of two pyrethroids that can enhance the development of TPB resistance, our findings suggest that Endigo and Athena are likely superior products for slowing down resistance development in TPB populations. This study provides valuable insight for selecting the most effective mixtures to achieve better TPB control through synergistic toxicity analysis, while simultaneously reducing economic and environmental risks associated with resistance development in the insect pest.
Volatile Organic Compounds from Cassava Plants Confer Resistance to the Whitefly Aleurothrixus aepim (Goeldi, 1886)
Authors: Ribeiro Thyago Fernando Lisboa , Oliveira Demetrios José de Albuquerque , da Costa João Gomes , Gutierrez Miguel Angel Martinez , de Oliveira Eder Jorge , Ribeiro Junior Karlos Antonio Lisboa , Goulart Henrique Fonseca , Riffel Alessandro , Santana Antonio Euzebio Goulart
Published: September 2023

Cassava is an essential tuber crop used to produce food, feed, and beverages. Whitefly pests, including Aleurothrixus aepim (Goeldi, 1886) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), significantly affect cassava-based agroecosystems. Plant odours have been described as potential pest management tools, and the cassava clone M Ecuador 72 has been used by breeders as an essential source of resistance. In this study, we analysed and compared the volatile compounds released by this resistant clone and a susceptible genotype, BRS Jari. Constitutive odours were collected from young plants and analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry combined with chemometric tools. The resistant genotype released numerous compounds with previously described biological activity and substantial amounts of the monoterpene (E)-β-ocimene. Whiteflies showed non-preferential behaviour when exposed to volatiles from the resistant genotype but not the susceptible genotype. Furthermore, pure ocimene caused non-preferential behaviour in whiteflies, indicating a role for this compound in repellence. This report provides an example of the intraspecific variation in odour emissions from cassava plants alongside information on odorants that repel whiteflies; these data can be used to devise whitefly management strategies. A better understanding of the genetic variability in cassava odour constituents and emissions under field conditions may accelerate the development of more resistant cassava varieties.
Reply to Beilstein, C.M.; Wuethrich, P.Y. Comment on “Crettenand et al. Is Continuous Wound Infiltration a Better Option for Postoperative Pain Management after Open Nephrectomy Compared to Thoracic Epidural Analgesia? J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 2974”
Authors: Crettenand François , Assayed-Leonardi Nady , Rohrer Felix , Martinez Carrique Silvia , Roth Beat
Published: September 2023

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Intraoperative Utilization of Indocyanine Green (ICG) Dye for the Assessment of Ovarian Perfusion—Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Plöger Ruben , Condic Mateja , Ralser Damian J. , Plöger Hannah M. , Egger Eva K. , Otten Lucia A. , Mustea Alexander
Published: September 2023

The assessment of ovarian perfusion after detorsion is crucial in the surgical management of patients with ovarian torsion. In current routine clinical practice, the surgical decision (preservation of the ovary versus oophorectomy) is based on the subjective impression of the surgeon. Intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) angiography has been shown to sufficiently reflect tissue perfusion with a potential impact on the surgical procedure. Currently, there are only sparse data available on the utilization of ICG in the surgical treatment of ovarian torsion. Here, we describe the successful intraoperative use of ICG in a 17-year-old female patient with ovarian torsion who underwent ovary-preserving surgery. Further, a systematic literature review was performed. Based on the data available to date, the use of ICG in the surgical treatment of ovarian torsion is feasible and safe. The extent to which this might reduce the necessity for oophorectomy has to be evaluated in further investigations.
Analysis of Mandibular Muscle Variations Following Condylar Fractures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Inchingolo Francesco , Patano Assunta , Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Riccaldo Lilla , Morolla Roberta , Netti Anna , Azzollini Daniela , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Palermo Andrea , Lucchese Alessandra , Di Venere Daniela , Dipalma Gianna
Published: September 2023

This review analyzes muscle activity following mandibular condylar fracture (CF), with a focus on understanding the changes in masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functioning. Materials and Methods: The review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search was performed on online databases using the keywords “masticatory muscles” AND (“mandibular fracture” OR “condylar fracture”). The eligibility criteria included clinical trials involving human intervention and focusing on muscle activity following a condylar fracture. Results: A total of 13 relevant studies were reviewed. Various studies evaluated muscle activity using clinical evaluation, bite force measurement, electromyography (EMG), magnetic sensors and radiological examinations to assess the impact of mandibular fractures on masticatory muscles. Conclusions: Mandibular condylar fractures can lead to significant changes in muscle activity, affecting mastication and TMJ functioning. EMG and computed tomography (CT) imaging play crucial roles in assessing muscle changes and adaptations following fractures, providing valuable information for treatment planning and post-fracture management. Further research is required to explore long-term outcomes and functional performance after oral motor rehabilitation in patients with facial fractures. Standardized classifications and treatment approaches may help improve the comparability of future studies in this field.
Role of Crystalloids in the Perioperative Setting: From Basics to Clinical Applications and Enhanced Recovery Protocols
Authors: Lorente Juan , Hahn Robert , Jover José , Del Cojo Enrique , Hervías Mónica , Jiménez Ignacio , Uña Rafael , Clau-Terré Fernando , Monge Manuel , Llau Juan , Colomina Maria , Ripollés-Melchor Javier
Published: September 2023

Perioperative fluid management, a critical aspect of major surgeries, is characterized by pronounced stress responses, altered capillary permeability, and significant fluid shifts. Recognized as a cornerstone of enhanced recovery protocols, effective perioperative fluid management is crucial for optimizing patient recovery and preventing postoperative complications, especially in high-risk patients. The scientific literature has extensively investigated various fluid infusion regimens, but recent publications indicate that not only the volume but also the type of fluid infused significantly influences surgical outcomes. Adequate fluid therapy prescription requires a thorough understanding of the physiological and biochemical principles that govern the body’s internal environment and the potential perioperative alterations that may arise. Recently published clinical trials have questioned the safety of synthetic colloids, widely used in the surgical field. A new clinical scenario has arisen in which crystalloids could play a pivotal role in perioperative fluid therapy. This review aims to offer evidence-based clinical principles for prescribing fluid therapy tailored to the patient’s physiology during the perioperative period. The approach combines these principles with current recommendations for enhanced recovery programs for surgical patients, grounded in physiological and biochemical principles.
Predicting Treatment Response in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Cross-Sectional Imaging Markers
Authors: Mignini Irene , Maresca Rossella , Ainora Maria Elena , Larosa Luigi , Scaldaferri Franco , Gasbarrini Antonio , Zocco Maria Assunta
Published: September 2023

Therapeutic options for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have largely expanded in the last decades, both in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, including multiple biological drugs targeting different inflammation pathways. However, choosing the best treatment and timing for each patient is still an undeniable challenge for IBD physicians due to the marked heterogeneity among patients and disease behavior. Therefore, early prediction of the response to biological drugs becomes of utmost importance, allowing prompt optimization of therapeutic strategies and thus paving the way towards precision medicine. In such a context, researchers have recently focused on cross-sectional imaging techniques (intestinal ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance enterography) in order to identify predictive markers of response or non-response to biologic therapies. In this review, we aim to summarize data about imaging factors that may early predict disease behavior during biological treatment, potentially helping to define more precise and patient-tailored strategies.
Putative Bidirectionality of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Periodontal Disease: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Tamiya Hiroyuki , Mitani Akihisa , Abe Masanobu , Nagase Takahide
Published: September 2023

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasing worldwide and is currently the third leading cause of death globally. The long-term inhalation of toxic substances, mainly cigarette smoke, deteriorates pulmonary function over time, resulting in the development of COPD in adulthood. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects most adults and is caused by the bacteria within dental plaque. These bacteria dissolve the gums around the teeth and the bone that supports them, ultimately leading to tooth loss. Periodontal disease and COPD share common risk factors, such as aging and smoking. Other similarities include local chronic inflammation and links with the onset and progression of systemic diseases such as ischemic heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Understanding whether interventions for periodontal disease improve the disease trajectory of COPD (and vice versa) is important, given our rapidly aging society. This review focuses on the putative relationship between COPD and periodontal disease while exploring current evidence and future research directions.
Preventing Rejection of the Kidney Transplant
Authors: Malhotra Divyanshu , Jethwani Priyanka
Published: September 2023

With increasing knowledge of immunologic factors and with the advent of potent immunosuppressive agents, the last several decades have seen significantly improved kidney allograft survival. However, despite overall improved short to medium-term allograft survival, long-term allograft outcomes remain unsatisfactory. A large body of literature implicates acute and chronic rejection as independent risk factors for graft loss. In this article, we review measures taken at various stages in the kidney transplant process to minimize the risk of rejection. In the pre-transplant phase, it is imperative to minimize the risk of sensitization, aim for better HLA matching including eplet matching and use desensitization in carefully selected high-risk patients. The peri-transplant phase involves strategies to minimize cold ischemia times, individualize induction immunosuppression and make all efforts for better HLA matching. In the post-transplant phase, the focus should move towards individualizing maintenance immunosuppression and using innovative strategies to increase compliance. Acute rejection episodes are risk factors for significant graft injury and development of chronic rejection thus one should strive for early detection and aggressive treatment. Monitoring for DSA development, especially in high-risk populations, should be made part of transplant follow-up protocols. A host of new biomarkers are now commercially available, and these should be used for early detection of rejection, immunosuppression modulation, prevention of unnecessary biopsies and monitoring response to rejection treatment. There is a strong push needed for the development of new drugs, especially for the management of chronic or resistant rejections, to prolong graft survival. Prevention of rejection is key for the longevity of kidney allografts. This requires a multipronged approach and significant effort on the part of the recipients and transplant centers.
Method Based on Ultrafiltration to Obtain a Plasma Rich in Platelet and Plasma Growth Factors
Authors: Mercader Ruiz Jon , Beitia Maider , Delgado Diego , Sánchez Pello , Guadilla Jorge , Pérez de Arrilucea Cristina , Benito-Lopez Fernando , Basabe-Desmonts Lourdes , Sánchez Mikel
Published: September 2023

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an autologous biological product which, due to its regenerative capacity, is currently used in different fields of medicine. This biological treatment has proven to be effective in numerous research studies due to its high content of growth factors released by platelets. However, the current systems used to obtain PRP do not enrich the growth factors and cytokines outside platelets. Considering this, the present work aims to develop a new technique by which all the biomolecules present in plasma are enriched. Thus, a new method based on ultrafiltration has been developed for the obtaining of the novel PRP. By this method, ultrafiltration of the plasma water is carried out using a 3KDa filtering unit. The results showed that the technique was able to concentrate extraplatelet factors, such as IGF-1 and HGF, in contrast with conventional plasmas. Thus, the cultured cells responded with increased viability to this new PRP. These results could provide a new approach to the treatment of injuries requiring regenerative medicine, potentially improving the outcomes of the conventional PRPs.
Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump among Shockable Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients: A Propensity-Weighted Analysis in a Multicenter, Nationwide Observational Study in Japan (The JAAM-OHCA Registry)
Authors: Yoshimura Satoshi , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Irisawa Taro , Yamada Tomoki , Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Park Changhwi , Nishimura Tetsuro , Ishibe Takuya , Kobata Hitoshi , Kishimoto Masafumi , Kim Sung-Ho , Ito Yusuke , Sogabe Taku , Morooka Takaya , Sakamoto Haruko , Suzuki Keitaro , Onoe Atsunori , Matsuyama Tasuku , Matsui Satoshi , Nishioka Norihiro , Okada Yohei , Makino Yuto , Kimata Shunsuke , Kawai Shunsuke , Zha Ling , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iwami Taku
Published: September 2023

Background: The effectiveness of IABP for shockable out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has not been extensively investigated. This study aimed to investigate whether the use of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for non-traumatic shockable OHCA patients was associated with favorable neurological outcomes. Methods: From the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest registry, a nationwide multicenter prospective registry, we enrolled adult patients with non-traumatic and shockable OHCA for whom resuscitation was attempted, and who were transported to participating hospitals between 2014 and 2019. The primary outcome was 1-month survival with favorable neurological outcomes after OHCA. After adopting the propensity score (PS) inverse probability of weighting (IPW), we evaluated the association between IABP and favorable neurological outcomes. Results: Of 57,754 patients in the database, we included a total of 2738 adult non-traumatic shockable patients. In the original cohort, the primary outcome was lower in the IABP group (OR with 95% confidence intervals (CIs)), 0.57 (0.48–0.68), whereas, in the IPW cohort, it was not different between patients with and without IABP (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.91–1.53). Conclusion: In adult patients with non-traumatic shockable OHCA, IABP use was not associated with 1-month survival with favorable neurological outcomes.
Cellulose/Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework (ZIF-8) Composites with Antibacterial Properties for the Management of Wound Infections
Authors: Di Matteo Valentina , Di Filippo Maria Francesca , Ballarin Barbara , Gentilomi Giovanna Angela , Bonvicini Francesca , Panzavolta Silvia , Cassani Maria Cristina
Published: September 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of crystalline porous materials with outstanding physical and chemical properties that make them suitable candidates in many fields, such as catalysis, sensing, energy production, and drug delivery. By combining MOFs with polymeric substrates, advanced functional materials are devised with excellent potential for biomedical applications. In this research, Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework 8 (ZIF-8), a zinc-based MOF, was selected together with cellulose, an almost inexhaustible polymeric raw material produced by nature, to prepare cellulose/ZIF-8 composite flat sheets via an in-situ growing single-step method in aqueous media. The composite materials were characterized by several techniques (IR, XRD, SEM, TGA, ICP, and BET) and their antibacterial activity as well as their biocompatibility in a mammalian model system were investigated. The cellulose/ZIF-8 samples remarkably inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative reference strains, and, notably, they proved to be effective against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa presenting different antibiotic resistance profiles. As these pathogens are of primary importance in skin diseases and in the delayed healing of wounds, and the cellulose/ZIF-8 composites met the requirements of biological safety, the herein materials reveal a great potential for use as gauze pads in the management of wound infections.
Optimization of Ship’s Navigational Parameters to Improve the Stowage and Securing Criteria of Non-Standardized Cargo in Ships
Authors: Pérez-Canosa José M. , Orosa José A. , de Osés Francesc Xavier Martínez , Lama-Carballo Fco. Javier
Published: September 2023

General cargo ships are the most numerous in the merchant fleet. In these vessels, the stowage and securing of non-standardized cargo must be designed prior to being shipped. Furthermore, during sea navigation, the shipmaster must be confident that the secured cargo is safe in any weather conditions. One of the goals of the present research is to provide helpful guides to ship operators about the optimal navigational parameters. Despite different criteria being followed by the shipping industry to calculate the rolling motion accelerations, relevant accidents and losses related to an inadequate securing arrangement still occur. Firstly, this paper analyzes and compares the IMO’s and classification societies’ criteria, obtaining relevant results about the different safety levels along the ship’s dimensions. Secondly, it obtains a novel mathematical model of angular transverse acceleration, considering the sea state conditions and navigational parameters. For this reason, it investigates the combinations of optimization of these parameters. Finally, it proposes novel 3D surface graphs as being easy, useful, and quick to be interpreted by shipmasters when sailing in certain sea state conditions, to know if the limits of the maximum securing arrangement are exceeded and predict the ship’s optimal speed and heading in order to set out.
Study on the Effect of Hull Attitude on the Resistance Reduction of SWATH with Airflow Injection
Authors: Zhang Dapeng , Li Yunbo , Gong Jiaye , Fu Zheng
Published: September 2023

With the development of the green ship concept in design and construction, how to reduce the resistance to reduce fuel consumption has become a focus of ship research. As an important drag reduction method, the air lubrication method has been applied to various ship types, but it is still a new method in the study of SWATH (small waterplane area twin hull) drag reduction. In this paper, the air lubrication method is applied to a SWATH model with an overall length of 2.5 m to numerically study the influence of the hull attitude on the air coverage and resistance reduction. The grid is verified by the grid independence and the experiment results. Then, the resistance of the SWATH model under different trim angles and drafts is calculated, and the air coverage on the surface is observed. The drag reduction rates of different areas, including the strut, underwater body, and fins, are analyzed, too. The results show that the slight trim by the head is more conducive to the resistance reduction of the SWATH model, and the resistance reduction rate can reach 39.11%. The draft mainly affects the resistance reduction of the strut, and the difference is more than 10%.
Effects of a Subsurface Eddy on Acoustic Propagation in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Xu Anqi , Dong Changming , Yu Fei , Zhang Yongchui , Nan Feng , Ren Qiang , Chen Zifei
Published: September 2023

Using a ray tracing model, acoustic propagation through a subsurface eddy is investigated. The eddy with a 460 km diameter lies at approximately 23° N, 126° E. The presence of the subsurface eddy is found to result in significant alterations to the received acoustic field. Affected by the subsurface eddy, the location of a given convergence zone can be different from usual with optimum propagation conditions. For a source deployed outside of the eddy, the subsurface eddy creates a surface duct by modifying the sonic layer depth. A maximum of 15 km difference in the range of a given convergence zone is found between the propagations with the presence and absence of the eddy when the source is placed around 100 m depth. However, for a source within the eddy, the intense shift in convergence zone patterns occurs only when the source is deployed around 300 m depth. These ocean-acoustic results can provide essential information for operating technologies such as communication devices, underwater sonar, and navigation systems.
The Experimental Study of Dynamic Response of Marine Riser under Coupling Effect of Multiparameter
Authors: Zheng Run , Wang Chunguang , He Wentao , Zhang Zhenyang , Ma Keshun , Ren Mengqi
Published: September 2023

In order to investigate the dynamic response of a marine riser under the coupling effect of multiparameter, a model experiment of a marine riser was designed and carried out. The main parameters of the model test were divided into riser design parameters and flow field parameters. The riser parameters included the elastic modulus, boundary conditions, and top tension forces, and the flow field parameters were the velocities and wave parameters (wave height and period). The riser materials were aluminum (Al) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), representing the metal riser and fiber-reinforced composite marine riser, respectively, which differ greatly in modulus. Two types of boundary conditions were considered, which were simple supports at both ends (S-S) and simple and fixed supports at each end (S-F). The top tension forces were chosen as 10 N and 30 N, respectively. In terms of the flow velocities, 0.3 m/s and 0.7 m/s were used. For the wave types, the small wave had a period of 1.0 s and a wave height of 5 cm while the large wave had a period of 2.0 s and a wave height of 15 cm. The dynamic response of the riser under 32 different working conditions was studied experimentally, and through the analysis of the experimental data, the effects of various parameters on the dynamic response of the risers were obtained. The results show that the amplitude of the riser was negatively correlated with the elastic modulus, the number of constraints, and the magnitude of the top tension, while it was positively correlated with the flow velocity and wave size. Moreover, the sequences of importance were b3 (flow velocity) > b6 (modulus) > b1 (number of constraints) > b2 (top tension force) > b5 (wave height) > b4 (wave period) for the vibration of the riser in the in-flow direction and b3 (flow velocity) > b1 (number of constraints) > b6 (modulus) > b2 (top tension force) > b5 (wave height) > b4 (wave period) for the vibration of the riser in the cross-flow direction, respectively, according to the multiple linear regression calculation.
Quantitative Acetylome Analysis of Differentially Modified Proteins in Virulence-Differentiated Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum Isolates during Cucumber Colonization
Authors: Zhou Ying , Lu Xiaohong , Hao Jianjun , Li Shidong
Published: September 2023

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (Foc) is a prominent pathogen that adversely affects cucumber (Cucumis sativus) production. In the pathogen’s parasitic lifestyle, the pathogenesis and virulence evolution may be regulated by lysine acetylation, as demonstrated in many living organisms. However, its specific function in Foc remains poorly understood. In this study, the acetylome profiles of a mild virulence strain (foc-3b) and its derived virulence-enhanced strain (Ra-4) were analyzed before and post-inoculation on cucumber plants. In total, 10,664 acetylation sites were identified corresponding to 3874 proteins, and 45 conserved acetylation motifs were detected. Through comparison of the acetylomes, numerous differentially lysine-acetylated proteins were enriched in energy metabolism and protein processing processes, indicating the critical role of lysine acetylation during the transition from the saprotrophic lifestyle to the parasitic lifestyle. Comparative acetylome analyses on the two virulence-differentiated strains revealed that several differentially lysine-acetylated proteins were involved in pathways of defense response and energy metabolism. Ra-4 showed enhanced energy metabolism compared to foc-3b. This indicates that robust metabolic activity is required to achieve high virulence and facilitating adaptive evolution. Additionally, faster host responses are supported by an ample energy supply enhancing virulence. Thus, lysine acetylation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and virulence evolution of Foc.
Robot-Assisted Renal Surgery with the New Hugo Ras System: Trocar Placement and Docking Settings
Authors: Prata Francesco , Raso Gianluigi , Ragusa Alberto , Iannuzzi Andrea , Tedesco Francesco , Cacciatore Loris , Civitella Angelo , Tuzzolo Piergiorgio , D’Addurno Giuseppe , Callè Pasquale , Basile Salvatore , Fantozzi Marco , Pira Matteo , Prata Salvatore Mario , Anceschi Umberto , Simone Giuseppe , Scarpa Roberto Mario , Papalia Rocco
Published: September 2023

The current literature relating to the novel HugoTM RAS System lacks consistent data concerning the bedside features of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). To describe the trocar placement and docking settings for RAPN with a three-arm configuration to streamline the procedure with HugoTM RAS, between October 2022 and April 2023, twenty-five consecutive off-clamp RAPNs for renal tumors with the HugoTM RAS System were performed. We conceived a trouble-free three-arm setting to ease and standardize RAPN trocar placement and docking settings with HugoTM RAS. Perioperative data were collected. Post-operative complications were reported according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. The eGFR was calculated according to the CKD–EPI formula. Continuous variables were presented as the median and IQR, while frequencies were reported as categorical variables. Off-clamp RAPNs were successfully performed in all cases without the need for conversion or additional port placement. The median age and BMI were 69 years (IQR, 60–73) and 27.3 kg/m2 (IQR, 25.7–28.1), respectively. The median tumor size and R.E.N.A.L. score were 32.5 mm (IQR, 26–43.7) and 6 (IQR, 5–7), respectively. Two patients were affected by cT2 renal tumors. The median docking and console time were 5 (IQR, 5–6) and 90 min (IQR, 68–135.75 min), respectively, with slightly progressive improvements in the docking time achieved. No intraoperative complications occurred alongside clashes between instruments or with the bed assistant. In experienced hands, this simplified three-instrument configuration of the HugoTM RAS System for off-clamp RAPN resulted in feasible and safe practice, providing patient-tailored trocar placement and docking with non-inferior peri-perioperative outcomes to other robotic platforms.
Spatiotemporal Variations of Production–Living–Ecological Space under Various, Changing Climate and Land Use Scenarios in the Upper Reaches of Hanjiang River Basin, China
Authors: Wang Pengtao , Li Xupu , Zhang Liwei , Wang Zhuangzhuang , Bai Jiangtao , Song Yongyong , Han Hongzhu , Zhao Ting , Huang Guan , Yan Junping
Published: September 2023

Land is an important resource that supports the production, life, and ecological development of human society. The current research on production–living–ecological space (PLES) is mainly focusing on the identification of single and dominant functions of land space, and the comprehensive spatial function measurement index of PLES (PLESI) is less known in the effective quantitative evaluation of multifunctionality of different land use categories. Integrating the CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6) scenario data and the future land use simulation model (FLUS), this research took the upper reaches of the Hanjiang River (URHR) as an example to explore the temporal and spatial variations in land use, PLES, and PLESIs during 2000–2020, and in the SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios from 2021 to 2100. The findings were as follows: (1) Forest land is the most widely distributed type of land; correspondingly, ecological space has the widest distribution area in PLES, followed by production space. (2) The area of dry land and building land increased between 2000 and 2010, accompanied by the increase in living space. From 2010 to 2020, the growth rate of building land tended to slow down while forest land increased, and the conflict of PLES eased. (3) The transfer between forest land and dry land is projected to intensify under the SSP2-4.5 scenario, while it is projected to occur between forest land and grassland under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. As for the changes in PLES, the SSP2-4.5 scenario has a greater impact than the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Spatially, several sub-basins in the northern URHR are the main areas of land use and PLES change. (4) PLESI presents a significant downward trend from 2000 to 2020 while trending upward under the SSP5-8.5 scenario and trending downward slightly under the SSP2-4.5 scenario between 2020 and 2100. Combining climate scenarios and the future land use simulation, this research would support the effective utilization of regional land resources and ecosystem management decision-making.
Fatigue Behaviour and Its Effect on the Residual Strength of Long-Fibre-Reinforced Thermoplastic PP LGF30
Authors: Witzgall Christian , Gadinger Marc , Wartzack Sandro
Published: September 2023

It is undeniable that mechanical properties, such as the stiffness or residual strength of fibre-reinforced thermoplastics, are adversely affected by fatigue damage caused by cyclic loading. In order to quantify and predict this damage influence, a calculation approach was developed in the past for the subgroup of short-fibre-reinforced thermoplastics. In order to test and expand the applicability of this approach to the field of long-fibre-reinforced thermoplastics, the decrease in mechanical properties is investigated experimentally in this paper using PP LGF30, propylene reinforced with long glass fibres, as an example. The paper describes both the fatigue behaviour and the residual strength of the material after fatigue damage. A decrease in the residual strength of up to about 35% could be recorded. The paper also presents a modelling approach that predicts the orientation-dependent fatigue strength of the material, and furthermore allows for the calculation of its residual strength as a function of fatigue damage. The novelty of the contribution lies in the continuous modelling of fatigue behaviour for arbitrary oriented samples of long-fibre-reinforced thermoplastics and also in the prediction of its residual strength depending on previously induced fatigue damage.