bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Flood Early Warning System for Data-Scarce, Karstic, Mountainous Environments: A Case Study
Authors: Rozos Evangelos , Bellos Vasilis , Kalogiros John , Mazi Katerina
Published: October 2023

This paper presents an efficient flood early warning system developed for the city of Mandra, Greece which experienced a devastating flood event in November 2017 resulting in significant loss of life. The location is of particular interest due to both its small-sized water basin (20 km2 upstream of the studied cross-section), necessitating a rapid response time for effective flood warning calculations, and the lack of hydrometric data. To address the first issue, a database of pre-simulated flooding events with a 2D hydrodynamic model corresponding to synthetic precipitations with different return periods was established. To address the latter issue, the hydrological model was calibrated using qualitative information collected after the catastrophic event, compensating for the lack of hydrometric data. The case study demonstrates the establishment of a hybrid (online–offline) flood early warning system in data-scarce environments. By utilizing pre-simulated events and qualitative information, the system provides valuable insights for flood forecasting and aids in decision-making processes. This approach can be applied to other similar locations with limited data availability, contributing to improved flood management strategies and enhanced community resilience.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Severity of Alcohol Use Disorder: Significance of Dual Disorders
Authors: Gajdics Janka , Bagi Otília , Farkas Fanni , Andó Bálint , Pribék Ildikó , Lázár Bence
Published: October 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been assumed to impact patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The severity of the influence that the COVID-19 pandemic had on the symptoms of AUD has not yet been revealed in detail. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients diagnosed with AUD. This retrospective study was conducted between 11 March 2017 and 31 May 2022 in Hungary. Medical charts (N = 1082) of inpatients with the diagnosis of AUD were reviewed. Based on the dates of admissions, two groups were created: the ‘before COVID-19’ group (11 March 2017–10 March 2020) and the ‘during COVID-19’ group (11 March 2020–31 May 2022). Chi-square tests, independent-sample t-tests, and multinomial logistic regressions were performed. The occurrence of delirium tremens (DT) and psychiatric co-morbidities was significantly higher during the pandemic. Our results showed that the occurrence of DT and psychiatric co-morbidities significantly increased during the pandemic. Our results revealed that the pandemic enhanced the severe consequences of AUD, and the development of AUD might have increased in frequency among individuals previously diagnosed with mental illness during the pandemic. These findings indicate the significance of dual disorders in the post-pandemic period.
Full-Day Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Levels of Typically Developing Children and Adolescents in the Middle East: A Systematic Review
Authors: Burahmah Esraa , Shanmugam Sivaramkumar , Stansfield Ben
Published: October 2023

Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) are important components of physical behaviour associated with long-term health outcomes. Environmental and cultural factors may influence physical behaviour. To explore full day PA and SB in children and adolescents (2–18 years old) in the Middle East, a systematic literature review was performed including 183 journal articles. A wide range of PA and SB outcomes were reported, in some cases making synthesis of results difficult. As a consequence, results were generally reported narratively (MVPA time, total PA, SB time). Meta-regression of daily step count revealed females took 4600 fewer steps than males, with 3000 fewer steps on weekdays than weekends, and overweight individuals taking 2800 fewer steps/day. Steps decreased with age. Meta-regression for TV viewing time demonstrated an increase by 0.04 h per year of age. Even though environmental and cultural conditions may be different, PA and SB of children and adolescents in the Middle East were largely comparable to those of Europeans and North Americans. The wide range of data collection instruments used (both self-report questionnaire and body-worn devices) and heterogeneity of data made synthesis of reported data across studies very difficult, suggesting a need for greater standardisation of data collection methods.
The Impact of the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic on University Staff Dietary Behaviours, Sleeping Patterns, and Well-Being: An International Comparison Study
Authors: Rabiee Khan Fatemeh , Abdelraheim Titi Maher , Frankowska Natalia , Kowalczyk Katarzyna , Alziedan Rasmieh , Yin-Kei Lau Christine , Biernat Karolina , Brown Kyle Gavin
Published: October 2023

This study assessed the impact of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on well-being by measuring the changes to food security, dietary behaviour, and sleeping patterns of university staff in England, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and China. Using a cross-sectional study design, participants in four universities in the respective countries were surveyed between June and July 2020. The mean age of the 902 participants was 42 years old and 67% were female. The findings indicate a reduction in emotionally driven food behaviour [t (901.00) = −20.87, p <  0.001], food acquisition location [t (901.00) = −51.55, p < 0.001], skipping meals [t (901.00) = −24, p < 0.001], and consumption of canned fruit and vegetables [t (901.00) = −10.18, p < 0.001]. However, home cooking [t (901.00) = 36.61, p < 0.001] and the food shopping experience [t (901.00) = 4.53, p <  0.001] markedly increased during lockdown. The participants had higher levels of well-being during the pandemic and experienced a significant increase in sleeping hours (p < 0.001). Increased age and sleeping hours were positively associated with overall well-being. Conversely, emotionally driven food behaviour (i.e., buying and eating more food out of boredom/fear or anxiety) and skipping meals decreased the overall well-being. Lockdown had beneficial effects on dietary behaviours, sleeping patterns, and well-being, but there were variations between countries.
Mortality in Germany during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pichler Alois , Uhlig Dana
Published: October 2023

Is there sufficient scientific evidence for excess mortality caused by COVID-19? The German population, similar to the population of many other countries, is subject to fluctuations caused by multiple factors, including migration and aging. COVID-19 is one additional factor, superposing natural or seasonal mortality fluctuations. To give scientific evidence for excess mortality caused by COVID-19, it is essential to employ appropriate statistical tools. This study develops a score indicating excess mortality and studies its evolution over time. Applied to data provided by governmental authorities, the indicator discloses, without relating to causes of death explicitly, excess mortality at the end of 2020, in 2021, and in 2022. In addition, the indicator confirms that COVID-19 particularly impacted the elderly segment of the population.
The Impact of Culture-, Health- and Nature-Based Engagement on Mitigating the Adverse Effects of Public Health Restrictions on Wellbeing, Social Connectedness and Loneliness during COVID-19: Quantitative Evidence from a Smaller- and Larger-Scale UK Survey
Authors: Thomson Linda J. M. , Spiro Neta , Williamon Aaron , Chatterjee Helen J.
Published: October 2023

Numerous UK surveys conducted during COVID-19 examined the pandemic’s detrimental effects on health, and the consequences of lockdown and other public health restrictions on mental health. Some surveys considered specific populations and social inequities exacerbated during COVID-19. Fewer surveys examined the ways in which the adverse effects of public health restrictions, such as lockdown, shielding and social distancing, might be alleviated. Drawing upon self-determination theory, the purpose of the current study was to assess whether culture-, health- and nature-based engagement would mitigate the effects of these restrictions on psychological wellbeing, social connectedness and loneliness. Quantitative data from a smaller-scale survey (n = 312) and a subset of questions embedded in a larger-scale survey (n = 3647) were analyzed using univariate and multivariate methods. Frequency of engagement, whether participation was online or offline and with or without other people, and the extent to which type of participation was associated with psychological wellbeing, social connectedness and loneliness were examined. Sports and fitness, gardening and reading occurred frequently in both surveys. For the smaller-scale survey, increases in connectedness and frequency of participation and decreases in loneliness were significantly associated with improved wellbeing, whereas the type of participation and age range were not significant predictors. Outcomes from the smaller-scale survey approximated the larger-scale survey for measures of loneliness, type and frequency of participation and proportion of respondents in each age range. As the frequency of participation was a significant predictor of wellbeing, but the type of participation was not significant, the findings implied that any type of participation in a sufficient quantity would be likely to boost wellbeing.
Investigating Ecological Momentary Assessed Physical Activity and Core Executive Functions in 18- to 24-Year-Old Undergraduate Students
Authors: Gilmour Ayva-Mae , MacDonald Mhairi J. , Cox Ashley , Fairclough Stuart J. , Tyler Richard
Published: October 2023

Although evidence for young children (<10) and older adults (>64) highlights an association between physical activity (PA) and executive functions (EFs), there is a paucity of research on adolescents aged 18–24 years. Thus, this study examined the associations between PA and EF and the difference in EF between individuals who achieve the moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA) guidelines and those who do not. Forty-seven participants engaged in a Stroop task, a reverse Corsi-block test, and a task-switching test, to measure inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, respectively. An ecological momentary assessment (EMA) was used to determine the participant’s MVPA and step count, through the “Pathverse” app. Multiple regressions were run to predict the task-switch cost, the Stroop effect, and the backward Corsi span from time spent in MVPA. A two-way ANCOVA examined the effects of achieving the MVPA guidelines on EF. MVPA and step count did not significantly predict EF. There were no significant differences in EF between participants achieving the MVPA guidelines and those that did not. Time spent in MVPA and step count were not significantly associated with working memory, cognitive flexibility, or inhibition in adolescents. Further research is warranted to understand other factors that may significantly affect EF, within and outside an individual’s control.
Vaping-Induced Proteolysis Causes Airway Surface Dehydration
Authors: Ghosh Arunava , Coakley Raymond D. , Alexis Neil E. , Tarran Robert
Published: October 2023

Proteases such as neutrophil elastase cleave and activate the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), causing airway dehydration. Our current study explores the impact of increased protease levels in vapers’ airways on ENaC activity and airway dehydration. Human bronchial epithelial cultures (HBECs) were exposed to bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from non-smokers, smokers and vapers. Airway surface liquid (ASL) height was measured by confocal microscopy as a marker of hydration. ENaC cleavage was measured by Western blotting. Human peripheral blood neutrophils were treated with a menthol-flavored e-liquid (Juul), and the resulting secretions were added to HBECs. BALF from smokers and vapers significantly and equally increased ENaC activity and decreased ASL height. The ASL height decrease was attenuated by protease inhibitors. Non-smokers’ BALF had no effect on ENaC or ASL height. BALF from smokers and vapers, but not non-smokers, induced ENaC cleavage. E-liquid-treated neutrophil secretions cleaved ENaC and decreased ASL height. Our study demonstrated that elevated protease levels in vapers’ airways have functional significance since they can activate ENaC, resulting in airway dehydration. Lung dehydration contributes to diseases like cystic fibrosis (CF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Thus, our data predict that vaping, like smoking, will cause airway surface dehydration that likely leads to lung disease.
Trichoderma viride Colonizes the Roots of Brassica napus L., Alters the Expression of Stress-Responsive Genes, and Increases the Yield of Canola under Field Conditions during Drought
Authors: Garstecka Zuzanna , Antoszewski Marcel , Mierek-Adamska Agnieszka , Krauklis Daniel , Niedojadło Katarzyna , Kaliska Beata , Hrynkiewicz Katarzyna , Dąbrowska Grażyna B.
Published: October 2023

In this work, we present the results of the inoculation of canola seeds (Brassica napus L.) with Trichoderma viride strains that promote the growth of plants. Seven morphologically different strains of T. viride (TvI-VII) were shown to be capable of synthesizing auxins and exhibited cellulolytic and pectinolytic activities. To gain a deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying canola–T. viride interactions, we analyzed the canola stress genes metallothioneins (BnMT1-3) and stringent response genes (BnRSH1-3 and BnCRSH). We demonstrated the presence of cis-regulatory elements responsive to fungal elicitors in the promoter regions of B. napus MT and RSH genes and observed changes in the levels of the transcripts of the above-mentioned genes in response to root colonization by the tested fungal strains. Of the seven tested strains, under laboratory conditions, T. viride VII stimulated the formation of roots and the growth of canola seedlings to the greatest extent. An experiment conducted under field conditions during drought showed that the inoculation of canola seeds with a suspension of T. viride VII spores increased yield by 16.7%. There was also a positive effect of the fungus on the height and branching of the plants, the number of siliques, and the mass of a thousand seeds. We suggest that the T. viride strain TvVII can be used in modern sustainable agriculture as a bioinoculant and seed coating to protect B. napus from drought.
Proteomic and Low-Polar Metabolite Profiling Reveal Unique Dynamics in Fatty Acid Metabolism during Flower and Berry Development of Table Grapes
Authors: Olmedo Patricio , Vidal Juan , Ponce Excequel , Defilippi Bruno G. , Pérez-Donoso Alonso G. , Meneses Claudio , Carpentier Sebastien , Pedreschi Romina , Campos-Vargas Reinaldo
Published: October 2023

Grapevine development and ripening are complex processes that involve several biochemical pathways, including fatty acid and lipid metabolism. Fatty acids are essential components of lipids, which play crucial roles in fruit maturation and flavor development. However, the dynamics of fatty acid metabolism in grape flowers and berries are poorly understood. In this study, we present those dynamics and investigate the mechanisms of fatty acid homeostasis on ‘Thompson Seedless’ berries using metabolomic and proteomic analyses. Low-polar metabolite profiling indicated a higher abundance of fatty acids at the pre-flowering and pre-veraison stages. Proteomic analyses revealed that grape flowers and berries display unique profiles of proteins involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, triacylglycerol assembly, fatty acid β-oxidation, and lipid signaling. These findings show, for the first time, that fatty acid metabolism also plays an important role in the development of non-oil-rich tissues, opening new perspectives about lipid function and its relation to berry quality.
Comparative Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Distinct Ascorbic Acid (AsA) Accumulation Patterns between PCA and PCNA Persimmon Developing Fruit
Authors: Wang Yiru , Diao Songfeng , Li Huawei , Ye Lingshuai , Suo Yujing , Zheng Yanhao , Sun Peng , Han Weijuan , Fu Jianmin
Published: October 2023

Persimmon fruit has a high nutritional value and significantly varies between pollination-constant astringent (PCA) and pollination-constant non-astringent (PCNA) persimmons. The astringency type affects sugar, flavonoids, and tannin accumulation and is well known in persimmon fruit. However, the impact of the fruit astringency type on ascorbic acid (AsA) accumulation is limited. In this study, typical PCA varieties (‘Huojing’ and ‘Zhongshi5’) and PCNA varieties (‘Yohou’ and ‘Jiro’) of persimmon fruit were sampled at four developing stages (S1–S4) to provide valuable information on AsA content variation in PCA and PCNA persimmon. Persimmon fruit is rich in ascorbic acid; the AsA content of the four varieties ‘Zhongshi5’, ‘Huojing’, ‘Jiro’, and ‘Youhou’ mature fruit reached 104.49, 48.69, 69.69, and 47.48 mg/100 g. Fruit of the same astringency type persimmon showed a similar AsA accumulation pattern. AsA content was significantly higher in PCA than PCNA fruit at S1–S3. The initial KEGG analysis of metabolites showed that galactose metabolism is the major biosynthetic pathway of AsA in persimmon fruit. There were significant differences in galactose pathway-related metabolite content in developing PCA and PCNA fruit, such as Lactose, D-Tagatose, and D-Sorbitol content in PCA being higher than that of PCNA. Combined gene expression and WGCNA analyses showed that the expression of the GME (evm.TU.contig4144.37) gene was higher in PCA-type than in PCNA-type fruit in S1–S3 and exhibited the highest correlation with AsA content (r = 690 **, p < 0.01). Four hub genes, including the DNA methylation gene, methyltransferase gene, F-box, and Actin-like Protein, were identified as potential regulators of the GME gene. These results provide basic information on how astringency types affect AsA accumulation and will provide valuable information for further investigation on AsA content variation in persimmon fruit.
A Comprehensive Genetic Study of Microtubule-Associated Gene Clusters for Male Infertility in a Taiwanese Cohort
Authors: Chan Chying-Chyuan , Yen Te-Hsin , Tseng Hao-Chen , Mai Brang , Ho Pin-Kuan , Chou Jian-Liang , Wu Gwo-Jang , Huang Yu-Chuan
Published: October 2023

Advanced reproductive technologies are utilized to identify the genetic mutations that lead to spermatogenic impairment, and allow informed genetic counseling to patients to prevent the transmission of genetic defects to offspring. The purpose of this study was to identify potential single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with male infertility. Genetic variants that may cause infertility are identified by combining the targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel and whole exome sequencing (WES). The validation step of Sanger sequencing adds confidence to the identified variants. Our analysis revealed five distinct affected genes covering seven SNPs based on the targeted NGS panel and WES data: SPATA16 (rs16846616, 1515442, 1515441), CFTR (rs213950), KIF6 (rs2273063), STPG2 (r2903150), and DRC7 (rs3809611). Infertile men have a higher mutation rate than fertile men, especially those with azoospermia. These findings strongly support the hypothesis that the dysfunction of microtubule-related and spermatogenesis-specific genes contributes to idiopathic male infertility. The SPATA16, CFTR, KIF6, STPG2, and DRC7 mutations are associated with male infertility, specifically azoospermia, and a further examination of this genetic function is required.
MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers of Post-Traumatic Epileptogenesis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vasilieva Anastasia A. , Timechko Elena E. , Lysova Kristina D. , Paramonova Anastasia I. , Yakimov Alexey M. , Kantimirova Elena A. , Dmitrenko Diana V.
Published: October 2023

Structural or post-traumatic epilepsy often develops after brain tissue damage caused by traumatic brain injury, stroke, infectious diseases of the brain, etc. Most often, between the initiating event and epilepsy, there is a period without seizures—a latent period. At this time, the process of restructuring of neural networks begins, leading to the formation of epileptiform activity, called epileptogenesis. The prediction of the development of the epileptogenic process is currently an urgent and difficult task. MicroRNAs are inexpensive and minimally invasive biomarkers of biological and pathological processes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the predictive ability of microRNAs to detect the risk of epileptogenesis. In this study, we conducted a systematic search on the MDPI, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science platforms. We analyzed publications that studied the aberrant expression of circulating microRNAs in epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, and ischemic stroke in order to search for microRNAs—potential biomarkers for predicting epileptogenesis. Thus, 31 manuscripts examining biomarkers of epilepsy, 19 manuscripts examining biomarkers of traumatic brain injury, and 48 manuscripts examining biomarkers of ischemic stroke based on circulating miRNAs were analyzed. Three miRNAs were studied: miR-21, miR-181a, and miR-155. The findings showed that miR-21 and miR-155 are associated with cell proliferation and apoptosis, and miR-181a is associated with protein modifications. These miRNAs are not strictly specific, but they are involved in processes that may be indirectly associated with epileptogenesis. Also, these microRNAs may be of interest when they are studied in a cohort with each other and with other microRNAs. To further study the microRNA-based biomarkers of epileptogenesis, many factors must be taken into account: the time of sampling, the type of biological fluid, and other nuances. Currently, there is a need for more in-depth and prolonged studies of epileptogenesis.
1,5,6-Trimethoxy-2,7-dihydroxyphenanthrene from Dendrobium officinale Exhibited Antitumor Activities for HeLa Cells
Authors: Liang Chong , Zhang Chonglun , Zhuo Yinlin , Gong Baocheng , Xu Weizhuo , Zhang Guogang
Published: October 2023

Natural products are irreplaceable reservoirs for cancer treatments. In this study, 12 phenanthrene compounds were extracted and isolated from Dendrobium officinale. Each chemical structure was identified using comprehensive NMR analysis. All compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against five tumor cell lines, i.e., HeLa, MCF-7, SK-N-AS, Capan-2 and Hep G2. Compound 5, 1,5,6-trimethoxy-2,7-dihydroxyphenanthrene, displayed the most significant cytotoxic effect against HeLa and Hep G2 cells, with an IC50 of 0.42 and 0.20 μM. For Hela cells, further experiments demonstrated that compound 5 could obviously inhibit cell migration, block cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase and induce apoptosis. Expression measurements for p53 indicated that knock down of p53 by siRNA could mitigate the apoptosis induced by compound 5. Therefore, the compound 5 is a potential candidate drug for HeLa cells in cervical cancer.
Production and Partial Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Underutilized Marine Bioresources for a Cosmetic Formulation: Cytotoxicity and Bioactivity Evaluation
Authors: Blanco María , Sánchez Ana C. , Correa Begoña , Vázquez José Antonio , Vázquez Andrea , Pérez-Martín Ricardo I. , Sotelo Carmen G.
Published: October 2023

Hydrolyzed collagen, glycogen, and hyaluronic acid, obtained through the biotechnological valorization of underutilized marine bioresources, fulfill cosmetic industry requirements for sustainable products produced under circular economy principles. Hydrolyzed collagen was obtained by hydrolyzing blue shark collagen with papain and ultrafiltration. Glycogen was isolated from industrial mussel cooking wastewaters through ultrafiltration, precipitation, and selective polysaccharide separation. Hyaluronic acid was produced by fermentation, purification, and depolymerization. The main objective was to test the feasibility of including these three biomolecules in a cosmetic formulation as bioactive compounds. For this, the in vitro irritant potential of the three ingredients and also that of the cosmetic formulation was assayed according to the Reconstituted Human Epithelium Test method OECD 439. Moreover, an in vitro assessment of the effect of hydrolyzed collagen and hyaluronic acid combinations on mRNA expression and collagen type I synthesis was evaluated in adult human fibroblasts. This study establishes, for the first time, the potential use of particular hydrolyzed collagen and hyaluronic acid combinations as stimulators of collagen I synthesis in fibroblast cultures. Besides, it provide safety information regarding potential use of those biomolecules in the formulation of a cosmetic preparation positively concluding that both, ingredients and cosmetic preparation, resulted not irritant for skin following an international validated reference method.
Progesterone and β-hCG Determination Using an Electrochemical Combo-Strip for Pregnancy Monitoring
Authors: Laschi Serena , Sfragano Patrick Severin , Ranaldi Francesco , Palchetti Ilaria
Published: October 2023

The development of analytical devices that can allow an easy, rapid and cost-effective measurement of multiple markers, such as progesterone and β-hCG, could have a role in decreasing the burden associated with pregnancy-related complications, such as ectopic pregnancies. Indeed, ectopic pregnancies are a significant contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality in both high-income and low-income countries. In this work, an effective and highly performing electrochemical strip for a combo determination of progesterone and β-hCG was developed. Two immunosensing approaches were optimized for the determination of these two hormones on the same strip. The immunosensors were realized using cost-effective disposable electrode arrays and reagent-saving procedures. Each working electrode of the array was modified with both the IgG anti-β-hCG and anti-progesterone, respectively. By adding the specific reagents, progesterone or β-hCG can then be determined. Fast quantitative detection was achieved, with the analysis duration being around 1 h. Sensitivity and selectivity were assessed with a limit of detection of 1.5 × 10–2 ng/mL and 2.45 IU/L for progesterone and β-hCG, respectively. The proposed electrochemical combo-strip offers great promise for rapid, simple, cost-effective, and on-site analysis of these hormones and, thus, for the development of a point-of-care diagnostic tool for early detection of pregnancy-related complications.
A Review of Disparities and Unmet Newborn Screening Needs over 33 Years in a Cohort of Mexican Patients with Inborn Errors of Intermediary Metabolism
Authors: Ibarra-González Isabel , Fernández-Lainez Cynthia , Vela-Amieva Marcela , Guillén-López Sara , Belmont-Martínez Leticia , López-Mejía Lizbeth , Carrillo-Nieto Rosa Itzel , Guillén-Zaragoza Nidia Alejandra
Published: October 2023

Advances in an early diagnosis by expanded newborn screening (NBS) have been achieved mainly in developed countries, while populations of middle- and low-income countries have poor access, leading to disparities. Expanded NBS in Mexico is not mandatory. Herein, we present an overview of the differences and unmet NBS needs of a group of Mexican patients with inborn errors of intermediary metabolism (IEiM), emphasizing the odyssey experienced to reach a diagnosis. We conducted a retrospective observational study of a historical cohort of patients with IEiM from a national reference center. A total of 924 patients with IEiM were included. Although 72.5% of the diseases identified are detectable by expanded NBS, only 35.4% of the patients were screened. The mortality in the unscreened group was almost two-fold higher than that in the screened group. Patients experienced a median diagnostic delay of 4 months, which is unacceptably long considering that to prevent disability and death, these disorders must be treated in the first days of life. Patients had to travel long distances to our reference center, contributing to their unacceptable diagnostic odyssey. This study highlights the urgent need to have an updated, expanded NBS program with adequate follow up in Mexico and promote the creation of regional medical care centers. We also provide compelling evidence that could prove valuable to decision makers overseeing public health initiatives for individuals impacted by IEiM from middle- and low-income countries.
The Impact of Data Science Solutions on the Company Turnover
Authors: Cristescu Marian Pompiliu , Mara Dumitru Alexandru , Culda Lia Cornelia , Nerișanu Raluca Andreea , Bâra Adela , Oprea Simona-Vasilica
Published: October 2023

This study explores the potential of data science software solutions like Customer Relationship Management Software (CRM) for increasing the revenue generation of businesses. We focused on those businesses in the accommodation and food service sector across the European Union (EU). The investigation is contextualized within the rising trend of data-driven decision-making, examining the potential correlation between data science applications and business revenues. By employing a comprehensive evaluation of Eurostat datasets from 2014 to 2021, we used both univariate and multivariate analyses, assessing the percentage of companies that have e-commerce sales across the EU countries, focusing on the usage of big data analytics from any source and the use of CRM tools for marketing purposes or other activities. Big data utilization showed a clear, positive relationship with enhanced e-commerce sales. However, CRM tools exhibited a dualistic impact: while their use in marketing showed no significant effect on sales, their application in non-marketing functions had negative effects on sales. These findings underscore the potential role of CRM and data science solutions in enhancing business performance in the EU’s accommodation and food service industry.
Proprioception and Mechanoreceptors in Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Salamanna Francesca , Caravelli Silvio , Marchese Laura , Carniato Melania , Vocale Emanuele , Gardini Giammarco , Puccetti Giulia , Mosca Massimiliano , Giavaresi Gianluca
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. It is frequently accompanied by high levels of persistent pain, as well as substantial impairments in function and functional capacity. This review aims to systematically analyze the changes in proprioception and related mechanoreceptors in OA patients. Methods: Studies from September 2013 to September 2023 were identified by conducting searches on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus electronic databases following the PRISMA statement. One reviewer independently assessed and screened the literature, extracted the data, and graded the studies. The body of evidence underwent an evaluation and grading process using the ROBINS-I tool, which was specifically designed to assess the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions. Results were summarized using descriptive methods. Results: A search through 37 studies yielded 14 clinical studies that were ultimately included. The primary focus of the studies was on the knee joint, particularly the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). The studies found that PCL in OA patients had impaired proprioceptive accuracy, possibly due to changes in mechanoreceptors (Ruffini, Pacini, and Golgi Mazzoni corpuscles). This suggests that dysfunctional articular mechanoreceptors, especially in severe cases of OA, may contribute to reduced proprioception. Dynamic stabilometry also identified significant proprioceptive deficits in patients with knee articular cartilage lesions, underscoring the impact of such lesions on knee proprioception. Conclusions: Literature data have shown that proprioceptive accuracy may play an important role in OA, particularly in the knee PCL and cartilage. However, the role of proprioception and related mechanoreceptors needs to be further clarified. Future studies focusing on the relationship between proprioception, OA disease, and symptoms, considering age and gender differences, and exploring OA joints other than the knee should be conducted to improve clinical and surgical outcomes in cases where proprioception and mechanoreceptors are impaired in OA patients.
Prognostic Factors for Postoperative Chronic Pain after Knee or Hip Replacement in Patients with Knee or Hip Osteoarthritis: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Florencio Lidiane L. , de-la-Llave-Rincón Ana I. , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , Cigarán-Méndez Margarita , Fuensalida-Novo Stella , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Valera-Calero Juan A. , Navarro-Santana Marcos J.
Published: October 2023

Knee and hip osteoarthritis are highly prevalent in the older population. Management of osteoarthritis-related pain includes conservative or surgical treatment. Although knee or hip joint replacement is associated with positive outcomes, up to 30% of patients report postoperative pain in the first two years. This study aimed to synthesize current evidence on prognostic factors for predicting postoperative pain after knee or hip replacement. An umbrella review of systematic reviews was conducted to summarize the magnitude and quality of the evidence for prognostic preoperative factors predictive of postoperative chronic pain (>6 months after surgery) in patients who had received knee or hip replacement. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, PEDro, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from inception up to 5 August 2022 for reviews published in the English language. A narrative synthesis, a risk of bias assessment, and an evaluation of the evidence confidence were performed. Eighteen reviews (nine on knee surgery, four on hip replacement, and seven on both hip/knee replacement) were included. From 44 potential preoperative prognostic factors, just 20 were judged as having high or moderate confidence for robust findings. Race, opioid use, preoperative function, neuropathic pain symptoms, pain catastrophizing, anxiety, other pain sites, fear of movement, social support, preoperative pain, mental health, coping strategies, central sensitization-associated symptoms, and depression had high/moderate confidence for an association with postoperative chronic pain. Some comorbidities such as heart disease, stroke, lung disease, nervous system disorders, and poor circulation had high/moderate confidence for no association with postoperative chronic pain. This review has identified multiple preoperative factors (i.e., sociodemographic, clinical, psychological, cognitive) associated with postoperative chronic pain after knee or hip replacement. These factors may be used for identifying individuals at a risk of developing postoperative chronic pain. Further research can investigate the impact of using such prognostic data on treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
Is There a Correlation between Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Improvement in Erectile Dysfunction?
Authors: Romano Antonio , Committeri Umberto , Abbate Vincenzo , Sarcinella Marco , Maffia Francesco , Barone Simona , Troise Stefania , Salzano Giovanni , Nocini Riccardo , Bonavolontà Paola , Dell’Aversana Orabona Giovanni
Published: October 2023

Background: In recent years, the focus on respiratory disorders has increased, notably on chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), an inflammatory condition of the upper airway that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Interestingly, CRS has emerged as a potential comorbidity in erectile dysfunction (ED). This study aims to assess the impact of endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS on sexual function. Materials and Methods: The authors conducted a prospective study of patients who visited their clinics for chronic rhinosinusitis between June 2018 and June 2022. The study involved 53 patients aged between 40 and 70 years who were treated for CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP). Preoperative and postoperative assessments were performed using the Nasal Obstruction Symptoms Evaluation Score (NOSE score) and the 5th International Index of Erectile Function Score (IIEF-5 score) to evaluate potential improvements in sexual function following endoscopic sinus surgery. Results: Before surgery, the average NOSE score was 72.6, which decreased to 24.9 postoperatively. The average preoperative IIEF-5 score was 16.35, while the postoperative average increased to 19.52. Statistical analysis revealed a significant improvement in erectile function for penetration (p-value = 0.024) and overall satisfaction after intercourse (p-value < 0.001) regarding the degree of nasal obstruction. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential benefits of treating chronic obstructive upper airway diseases such as sinusitis in improving the sexual outcomes of patients clinically diagnosed with erectile dysfunction.
Evaluating the Feasibility of Hydrogel-Based Neural Cell Sprays
Authors: Evans Daisy , Barcons Aina Mogas , Basit Raja Haseeb , Adams Christopher , Chari Divya Maitreyi
Published: October 2023

Neurological injuries have poor prognoses with serious clinical sequelae. Stem cell transplantation enhances neural repair but is hampered by low graft survival (<ca. 5%), necessitating the development of approaches to enhance post-transplant cell viability. Intracerebral injection exerts high mechanical forces on transplant cells with risks of haemorrhage/infection. Transplant cell sprays can offer a non-invasive alternative. This study has assessed if the addition of protective, encapsulating polymer hydrogels to a cell spray format is feasible. Hydrogels (0.1% (1 mg/mL), 0.3% and 0.6% type I rat tail collagen) were trialled for spray deliverability. Cell-enriched hydrogels (containing mouse cortical astrocytes) were sprayed onto culture substrates. Astrocyte viability, cell-specific marker expression, morphology and proliferation were assessed at 24 h and 72 h post spraying. Intra-gel astrocytes and hydrogels could be co-stained using a double immunocytological technique (picrosirius red (PR)/DAB-peroxidase co-labelling). Astrocyte viability remained high post spraying with hydrogel encapsulation (>ca. 80%) and marker expression/proliferative potential of hydrogel-sprayed astrocytes was retained. Combining a cell spray format with polymer encapsulation technologies could form the basis of a non-invasive graft delivery method, offering potential advantages over current cell delivery approaches.
Mapping Quantitative Observer Metamerism of Displays
Authors: Trumpy Giorgio , Andersen Casper Find , Farup Ivar , Elezabi Omar
Published: October 2023

Observer metamerism (OM) is the name given to the variability between the color matches that individual observers consider accurate. The standard color imaging approach, which uses color-matching functions of a single representative observer, does not accurately represent every individual observer’s perceptual properties. This paper investigates OM in color displays and proposes a quantitative assessment of the OM distribution across the chromaticity diagram. An OM metric is calculated from a database of individual LMS cone fundamentals and the spectral power distributions of the display’s primaries. Additionally, a visualization method is suggested to map the distribution of OM across the display’s color gamut. Through numerical assessment of OM using two distinct publicly available sets of individual observers’ functions, the influence of the selected dataset on the intensity and distribution of OM has been underscored. The case study of digital cinema has been investigated, specifically the transition from xenon-arc to laser projectors. The resulting heatmaps represent the “topography” of OM for both types of projectors. The paper also presents color difference values, showing that achromatic highlights could be particularly prone to disagreements between observers in laser-based cinema theaters. Overall, this study provides valuable resources for display manufacturers and researchers, offering insights into observer metamerism and facilitating the development of improved display technologies.
Maneuverability Performance of a KRISO Container Ship (KCS) with a Bulb-Type Wavy Twisted Rudder and Asymmetric Pre-Swirl Stator
Authors: Shin Yong-Jin , Kim Moon Chan , Lee Kyuong-Wan , Jin Woo Seok , Kim Jin Wook
Published: October 2023

The maneuverability performance of a KCS with energy-saving devices was investigated. A bulb-type wavy rudder and an asymmetric pre-swirl stator were used as energy-saving devices because their use resulted in considerable efficiency gain. A validated simulation method based on the maneuvering modeling group model was used for the simulation in this study. Turning circle, 10/10 zigzag, and 20/20 zigzag tests were simulated to compare various cases with and without a stator as well as conventional full-spade and bulb-type wavy rudders. Remarkable maneuverability performance was achieved, particularly with a bulb-type wavy rudder, and starboard–port unbalancing due to the one-directional propeller action was almost eliminated using these devices. The findings of this study will be useful in the development of more reliable autonomous maritime surface ships.
Relative Sea-Level Rise Projections and Flooding Scenarios for 2150 CE for the Island of Ustica (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy)
Authors: Anzidei Marco , Trippanera Daniele , Bosman Alessandro , Martin Franco Foresta , Doumaz Fawzi , Vecchio Antonio , Serpelloni Enrico , Alberti Tommaso , Rende Sante Francesco , Greco Michele
Published: October 2023

The island of Ustica (Italy) is constantly exposed to the effects of sea-level rise, which is threatening its coastal zone. With the aim of assessing the sea levels that are anticipated by 2150 CE under the climatic projections shown in the AR6 report from the IPCC, a detailed evaluation of potential coastal flooding under different climatic scenarios and the ongoing land subsidence has been carried out for three coastal zones. Scenarios are based on the determination of the current coastline position, a high-resolution digital terrain and marine model, and the SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 climatic projections. Relative sea-level rise projections allowed the mapping of the potential inundated surfaces for 2030, 2050, 2100, and 2150. The results show rising sea levels for 2150, ranging from a minimum of 66 ± 40 cm (IPCC AR6 SSP2.6 scenario) to a maximum of 128 ± 52 cm (IPCC AR6 SSP8.5 scenario). In such conditions, considering the SSP8.5 scenario during storm surges with return times (RTs) of 1 and 100 years, the expected maximum wave run-up along the island may vary from 3 m (RT = 1) to 14 m (RT = 100), according to the coastal morphology. Our results show that adaptation and mitigation actions are required to protect the touristic and harbor installations of the island.
Three-Dimensional Modeling of Tsunami Waves Triggered by Submarine Landslides Based on the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Method
Authors: Dai Zili , Li Xiaofeng , Lan Baisen
Published: October 2023

Submarine landslides are a global geohazard that can displace huge volumes of loose submarine sediment, thereby triggering enormous tsunami waves and causing a serious threat to coastal cities. To investigate the generation of submarine landslide tsunamis, a three-dimensional numerical model based on the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method is presented in this work. The model is first validated through the simulation of two underwater landslide model tests, and is then applied to simulate the movement of the Baiyun landslide in the South China Sea (SCS). The kinetics features of the submarine landslide, including the sliding velocity and runout distance, are obtained from the SPH simulation. The tsunami waves generated by the Baiyun landslide are predicted. In addition, sensitivity analyses are conducted to investigate the impact of landslide volume and water depth on the amplitude of the tsunami waves. The results indicate that the amplitude of tsunami waves triggered by submarine landslides increases with the landslide volume and decreases with the water depth of the landslide.
Gender and Identity Intersectionality: Evidence from the Spanish Press Coverage of Migrant and/or Racialized Women
Authors: Durán Rafael
Published: October 2023

Society and scholars have debated the representation of both women and either immigrants or Muslims in the media and how this representation might affect possible racist behavior and public policy choices. This study responds to the need for a better understanding of the intersectional media representation of migrant and/or racialized women. Framing analysis was conducted on the 234 clippings in which the six most popular Spanish broadsheet newspapers referred to the women in question throughout 2021. We observed that these women are underrepresented and that the opinion the press tends to shape varies depending on the women’s identity marker (Muslim, immigrant and/or Black) and the ideology of the dailies (leftist or rightist). Finally, it is relevant whether a newspaper is published in a territory with a large foreign and Muslim population.
Applying the Delphi Approach to Incorporate Voiceless Stakeholders in Community Planning
Authors: Ju Jongwng , Kim Jaecheol
Published: October 2023

In the planning process, it is crucial to involve every key stakeholder for effective collaborative participation. However, in real-world practice, planners often face difficulties engaging stakeholders who remain passive. The authors argue that the Delphi method, when modified to enhance planners’ roles as a communication channel, can bridge this gap, serving as a tool to facilitate communication with these passive stakeholders and fostering consensus between those who actively voice their opinions and those who do not. Therefore, this study introduces a ‘planner-aided’ policy Delphi method, which is a revised version of existing Delphi methods tailored to better serve these goals. The authors then explore the effectiveness of this proposed method in engaging voiceless stakeholders in the participatory planning process through a case study of the Seohak-dong Art Theme Street design project in Jeonju, South Korea. This study finds that the PAP Delphi technique integrated into participatory planning effectively reflected the thoughts of voiceless stakeholders. This research contributes by proposing a practical and easy-to-use method for urban planners to engage less-vocal groups and demonstrating its effectiveness.
Enhancing the Long-Term Ecological Management and Monitoring of Landscapes: The L-TEAM Framework
Authors: Mills Mystyn , Larios Loralee , Franklin Janet
Published: October 2023

Long-term monitoring and adaptive ecological management are essential to the conservation of biodiversity. Yet, achieving successful long-term ecological monitoring and management, especially at the landscape level, has proven challenging. In this paper, we address the hurdles faced in sustaining long-term monitoring and management for landscape-scale efforts by offering three promising conceptual and methodological developments that support such initiatives. Then, we introduce L-TEAM, a long-term ecological adaptive monitoring and management framework that integrates those three components using four tools: a conceptual model, clearly defined and measurable objectives, scientifically robust experimentation, and decision support tools. Finally, using a case study, we demonstrate L-TEAM’s effectiveness in supporting the long-term monitoring and management of a landscape conservation project with diverse habitat types and multiple management objectives. This structured decision framework not only facilitates informed decision making in management practices, but also ensures the implementation of scientifically grounded long-term monitoring. Additionally, L-TEAM holds the potential to enhance our understanding of ecosystem functioning and biodiversity responses to disturbances and management actions.