bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Pattern of Progression to First-Line Treatment with Dabrafenib and Trametinib in Patients with Unresectable or Metastatic, BRAF-Mutated, Cutaneous Melanoma: Results of the Observational T-WIN Study
Authors: Del Vecchio Michele , Chiarion Sileni Vanna , Quaglino Pietro , Rinaldi Gaetana , Minisini Alessandro , Troiani Teresa , Consoli Francesca , Sponghini Andrea , Banzi Maria , Morelli Maria Francesca , Palleschi Dario , Rossi Ernesto , Marconcini Riccardo , Depenni Roberta , Carnevale-Schianca Fabrizio , Marcon Ilaria , Queirolo Paola
Published: March 2023

In patients with B-RAF-mutated cutaneous melanoma, targeted therapies are the treatment of choice to achieve a rapid response. In this multicentric, prospective, observational study, patients with B-RAF-mutated cutaneous melanoma who were treated with dabrafenib and trametinib were categorized in two cohorts (cohort A: limited disease (n = 104) and cohort B: bulky disease (n = 97)) according to lactate dehydrogenase levels. The primary endpoint was the progression pattern; the secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety data. From baseline to time of progression, there was a progression from nodal to other sites of disease in cohort A and from skin and nodal to other sites in cohort B. In both the cohorts, the number of involved organs and metastases at each location decreased. The median OS was 32.4 months (95% CI: 20.1 months (not estimable)) for cohort A, and 10.5 months (95% CI: 8.3–14.4 months) for cohort B; median PFS was 12.4 months (95% CI: 10.9–17.0 months) for cohort A, and 8.1 months (95% CI: 6.3–9.4 months) for cohort B. No new safety signals were reported. This study describes the patterns of first-line treatment progression with dabrafenib and trametinib in Italian clinical practice. The effectiveness and safety data were consistent with previous trials and extended to a real-world heterogeneous population.
Critical Evaluation of a microRNA-Based Risk Classifier Predicting Cancer-Specific Survival in Renal Cell Carcinoma with Tumor Thrombus of the Inferior Vena Cava
Authors: Kotlyar Mischa J. , Krebs Markus , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Marquardt André , Burger Maximilian , Kübler Hubert , Bargou Ralf , Kneitz Susanne , Otto Wolfgang , Breyer Johannes , Vergho Daniel C. , Kneitz Burkhard , Kalogirou Charis
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma extending into the inferior vena cava (ccRCCIVC) represents a clinical high-risk setting. However, there is substantial heterogeneity within this patient subgroup regarding survival outcomes. Previously, members of our group developed a microRNA(miR)-based risk classifier—containing miR-21-5p, miR-126-3p and miR-221-3p expression—which significantly predicted the cancer-specific survival (CSS) of ccRCCIVC patients. (2) Methods: Examining a single-center cohort of tumor tissue from n = 56 patients with ccRCCIVC, we measured the expression levels of miR-21, miR-126, and miR-221 using qRT-PCR. The prognostic impact of clinicopathological parameters and miR expression were investigated via single-variable and multivariable Cox regression. Referring to the previously established risk classifier, we performed Kaplan–Meier analyses for single miR expression levels and the combined risk classifier. Cut-off values and weights within the risk classifier were taken from the previous study. (3) Results: miR-21 and miR-126 expression were significantly associated with lymphonodal status at the time of surgery, the development of metastasis during follow-up, and cancer-related death. In Kaplan–Meier analyses, miR-21 and miR-126 significantly impacted CSS in our cohort. Moreover, applying the miR-based risk classifier significantly stratified ccRCCIVC according to CSS. (4) Conclusions: In our retrospective analysis, we successfully validated the miR-based risk classifier within an independent ccRCCIVC cohort.
Emerging Targeted Therapies for HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Mercogliano María Florencia , Bruni Sofía , Mauro Florencia Luciana , Schillaci Roxana
Published: March 2023

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of death. HER2 overexpression is found in approximately 20% of breast cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis and a shorter overall survival. Tratuzumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against the HER2 receptor, is the standard of care treatment. However, a third of the patients do not respond to therapy. Given the high rate of resistance, other HER2-targeted strategies have been developed, including monoclonal antibodies such as pertuzumab and margetuximab, trastuzumab-based antibody drug conjugates such as trastuzumab-emtansine (T-DM1) and trastuzumab-deruxtecan (T-DXd), and tyrosine kinase inhibitors like lapatinib and tucatinib, among others. Moreover, T-DXd has proven to be of use in the HER2-low subtype, which suggests that other HER2-targeted therapies could be successful in this recently defined new breast cancer subclassification. When patients progress to multiple strategies, there are several HER2-targeted therapies available; however, treatment options are limited, and the potential combination with other drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells, CAR-NK, CAR-M, and vaccines is an interesting and appealing field that is still in development. In this review, we will discuss the highlights and pitfalls of the different HER2-targeted therapies and potential combinations to overcome metastatic disease and resistance to therapy.
Anti-Angiogenic Activity of Drugs in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Saltarella Ilaria , Altamura Concetta , Campanale Carmen , Laghetti Paola , Vacca Angelo , Frassanito Maria Antonia , Desaphy Jean-François
Published: March 2023

Angiogenesis represents a pivotal hallmark of multiple myeloma (MM) that correlates to patients’ prognosis, overall survival, and drug resistance. Hence, several anti-angiogenic drugs that directly target angiogenic cytokines (i.e., monoclonal antibodies, recombinant molecules) or their cognate receptors (i.e., tyrosine kinase inhibitors) have been developed. Additionally, many standard antimyeloma drugs currently used in clinical practice (i.e., immunomodulatory drugs, bisphosphonates, proteasome inhibitors, alkylating agents, glucocorticoids) show anti-angiogenic effects further supporting the importance of inhibiting angiogenesis from potentiating the antimyeloma activity. Here, we review the most important anti-angiogenic therapies used for the management of MM patients with a particular focus on their pharmacological profile and on their anti-angiogenic effect in vitro and in vivo. Despite the promising perspective, the direct targeting of angiogenic cytokines/receptors did not show a great efficacy in MM patients, suggesting the need to a deeper knowledge of the BM angiogenic niche for the design of novel multi-targeting anti-angiogenic therapies.
Ultrasound-Assisted 1,3-Dipolar Cycloadditions Reaction Utilizing Ni-Mg-Fe LDH: A Green and Sustainable Perspective
Authors: Salam Mohamed Abdel , Imdadulhaq Eman Saleem , Al-Romaizan Abeer Nasser , Saleh Tamer S. , Mostafa Mohamed Mokhtar M.
Published: March 2023

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of novel pyrazoles using Ni-Mg-Fe LDH as a catalyst in cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME) is introduced. Different LDHs were tested as a catalyst for the synthesis of pyrazoles via a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction. Among them, Ni-Mg-Fe LDH was the superior catalyst for this reaction. This protocol offered high yields, a short reaction time, and a green solvent, and with the reuse of this catalyst six times with the same activity, it could be regarded as an ecofriendly, greener process. The NiMgFe LDH catalyst with the smallest particle size (29 nm) and largest surface area showed its superior efficacy for the 1,3 dipolar cycloaddition rection and can be successfully used in up to six catalytic cycles with little loss of catalytic activity. A plausible mechanism for this reaction over the Ni-Mg-Fe LDH is proposed.
Atomically Dispersed Pd Sites on ZrO2 Hybridized N-Doped Carbon for Efficient Suzuki–Miyaura Reaction
Authors: Du Jiaqi , Peng Yidan , Guo Xu , Zhang Guoliang , Zhang Fengbao , Fan Xiaobin , Peng Wenchao , Li Yang
Published: March 2023

Researchers studying heterogeneous catalysis are intrigued by single-atom catalysts (SACs) due to their ultrahigh atomic utilization. However, only a few reports on SAC-catalyzed classical organic transformations are available. In this work, atomically dispersed Pd sites are confined to a ZrO2 hybridized N-doped carbon skeleton with a smart design. UiO-66-NH2 is used to anchor Pd atoms by the coordination of the donor atoms including lone pairs of electrons and metal atoms. Subsequently, the in situ introduction of ZrO2 doping is achieved using pyrolysis, which helps improve the catalytic performance by modulating the electronic state. The Pd@ZrO2/N–C catalyst obtained from the unique design exhibits a high yield (99%) in eco-friendly media with an extremely low noble metal dosage (0.03 mol% Pd) for the Suzuki reaction. Moreover, Pd@ZrO2/N–C remains highly active after being reused several times and possesses versatility in a variety of substrates. This strategy offers a feasible alternative to designing SACs with atomically dispersed noble metals for heterogeneous reactions.
Effects of the Acidic and Textural Properties of Y-Type Zeolites on the Synthesis of Pyridine and 3-Picoline from Acrolein and Ammonia
Authors: Pala-Rosas Israel , Contreras José Luis , Salmones José , López-Medina Ricardo , Angeles-Beltrán Deyanira , Zeifert Beatriz , Navarrete-Bolaños Juan , González-Hernández Naomi N.
Published: March 2023

A set of Y-type zeolites with Si/Al atomic ratios between 7–45 were studied as catalysts in the aminocyclization reaction between acrolein and ammonia to produce pyridine and 3-picoline. The catalytic activity tests at 360 °C revealed that the acrolein conversion increased in the order Z45 < ZY34 < ZY7 < ZY17, in agreement with the increase of the total acidity per gram of catalyst. In all cases, pyridine bases and cracking products (acetaldehyde and formaldehyde) were detected in the outflow from the reactor. The total yield of pyridines was inversely proportional to the total acidity for the catalysts, which presented large surface areas and micro- and mesoporosity. The selectivity towards 3-picoline was favored when using catalysts with a Brønsted/Lewis acid sites ratio close to 1. The formation of pyridine occurred more selectively over Lewis acid sites than Brønsted acid sites. The deactivation tests showed that the time on stream of the catalysts depended on the textural properties of zeolites, i.e., large pore volume and large BET area, as evidenced by the deactivation rate constants and the characterization of the spent catalysts. The physicochemical properties of the catalysts were determined by XRD, UV-vis, and Raman spectroscopies, infrared spectroscopy with adsorbed pyridine, N2 physisorption, and SEM-EDXS. After the reaction, the spent catalysts were characterized by XRD, Raman spectroscopy, TGA, and SEM-EDXS, indicating that the uniform deposition of polyaromatic species on the catalyst surface and within the porous system resulted in the loss of activity.
Synthesis of Co,Ce Oxide Nanoparticles Using an Aerosol Method and Their Deposition on Different Structured Substrates for Catalytic Removal of Diesel Particulate Matter
Authors: Godoy María Laura , Banús Ezequiel David , Bon Micaela , Miró Eduardo Ernesto , Milt Viviana Guadalupe
Published: March 2023

The synthesis of Co and Ce oxide nanoparticles using precipitation of precursor salt solutions in the form of microdroplets generated with a nebulizer proved to be an efficient, fast and inexpensive method. Different morphologies of single oxides particles were obtained. Ceria nanoparticles were almost cube-shaped of 8 nm average size, forming 1.3–1.5 μm aggregates, whereas cobalt oxide appeared as rounded-edged particles of 37 nm average size, mainly forming nanorods 50–500 nm. Co3O4 and CeO2 nanoparticles were used to generate structured catalysts from both metallic (stainless steel wire mesh monoliths) and ceramic (cordierite honeycombs) substrates. Ceria Nyacol was used as a binder to favor the anchoring of catalytic particles thus enhancing the adhesion of the coating. The resulting structured catalysts were tested for the combustion of diesel soot with the aim of being used in the regeneration of particulate filters (DPFs). The performance of these structured catalysts was similar to or even better than that exhibited by the catalysts prepared using commercial nanoparticles. Among the catalysts tested, the structured systems using ceramic substrates were more efficient, showing lower values of the maximum combustion rate temperatures (TM = 410 °C).
Ionizing Radiation Selectively Increases CXC Ligand 10 Level via the DNA-Damage-Induced p38 MAPK-STAT1 Pathway in Murine J774A.1 Macrophages
Authors: Seo You Na , Baik Ji Sue , Lee Song Mi , Lee Ji Eun , Ahn Hye Rim , Lim Min Seo , Park Moon-Taek , Kim Sung Dae
Published: March 2023

Ionizing radiation (IR) is an important means of tumor treatment in addition to surgery and drugs. Attempts have been made to improve the efficiency of radiotherapy by identifying the various biological effects of IR on cells. Components of the tumor microenvironment, such as macrophages, fibroblasts, and vascular endothelial cells, influence cancer treatment outcomes through communication with tumor cells. In this study, we found that IR selectively increased the production of CXC motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), which is emerging as an important biomarker for determining the prognosis of anticancer treatments, without changing the levels of CXCL9 and CXCL11 in murine J774A.1 macrophages. Pretreatment with KU55933, an ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase inhibitor, significantly inhibited IR-induced CXCL10 production. In contrast, pretreatment with N-acetyl-cysteine or glutathione, a reactive oxygen species scavenger, did not inhibit IR-induced CXCL10 production. Further, we attempted to identify the intracellular molecular target associated with the IR-induced increase in CXCL10 secretion by J774A.1 macrophages. IR phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) in J774A.1 macrophages, and p38 MAPK and STAT1 were involved in CXCL10 via IR using pharmacological inhibitors (SB203580 and fludarabine, respectively) and the siRNA technique.
Assessment of Malnutrition among Children Presenting in a Nutrition Center in Gimbichu, Ethiopia
Authors: Olcina Simón M. Ascensión , Soriano Jose M. , Morales-Suarez-Varela María
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, Ethiopia has several problems affecting children below 5 years of age, resulting in low life expectancies. Our group carried out a study to calculate the presence of malnutrition as wasting, stunting underweight, and BMI-for-age in children presenting in a nutrition center in a rural Ethiopian village in the Oromia region according to WHO guidelines. Our results demonstrated that they had moderate chronic malnutrition or stunting from 1 to 2 years of age, affecting their life, their parents, their community/household, and their country. In our viewpoint, the solution for this situation will require a global focus on several levels, including individual, family, community, and country, the last being with the help of new health policies focused on short-, medium-, and long-term strategies with multi- and interdisciplinary approaches.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Outbreak in Infants and Young Children during COVID-19 Pandemic in Taiwan
Authors: Chi Hsin , Chung Ching-Hu
Published: March 2023

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major burden of disease in babies and young children, including hospitalizations and deaths. RSV is a seasonal disease that peaks when temperatures decrease in temperate zones and humidity increases in tropical regions. Existing research reveals that RSV hospitalization activity is year-round in Taiwan, which is a subtropical region with small peaks in spring and fall. The monthly distribution and COVID-19 pandemic impact were unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate Taiwan’s RSV hospitalization seasonality and the COVID-19 pandemic effects. The National Health Insurance Database and Death Registration Files from the Center for Health and Welfare Data Science Center were connected to birth data for this study. RSV hospitalization (RSVH) in infants aged 0–1 years ranged from 0.9518% (2009) to 1.7113% (2020), substantially higher than in children aged 1–5. Most years had 2 or 3 RSV epidemic seasons in 0–5-year-olds over the 13-year follow-up. RSVH incidence was low until the autumn of 2020, when a major rise occurred after September and lasted until December 2020. We detected RSVH peaks in February–May and July–August. The 2020 RSV outbreak was found at the end of 2020.
Pediatric Bowel Management Options and Organizational Aspects
Authors: Bokova Elizaveta , Svetanoff Wendy Jo , Levitt Marc Aaron , Rentea Rebecca Maria
Published: March 2023

A bowel management program (BMP) to treat fecal incontinence and severe constipation is utilized for patients with anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung disease, spinal anomalies, and functional constipation, decreasing the rate of emergency department visits, and hospital admissions. This review is part of a manuscript series and focuses on updates in the use of antegrade flushes for bowel management, as well as organizational aspects, collaborative approach, telemedicine, the importance of family education, and one-year outcomes of the bowel management program. Implementation of a multidisciplinary program involving physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, coordinators, psychologists, and social workers leads to rapid center growth and enhances surgical referrals. Education of the families is crucial for postoperative outcomes, prevention, and early detection of complications, especially Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis. Telemedicine can be proposed to patients with a defined anatomy and is associated with high parent satisfaction and decreased patient stress in comparison to in-person visits. The BMP has proved to be effective in all groups of colorectal patients at a 1- and 2-year follow-up with social continence achieved in 70–72% and 78% of patients, respectively, and an improvement in the patients’ quality of life. A transitional care to adult program is essential to maintain the same quality of care, and continuity of care and to achieve desired long-term outcomes as the patient reaches adult age.
Preparation, Microstructure, and Interface Quality of Cr3C2-NiCr Cladding Layer on the Surface of Q235 Steel
Authors: Zhai Wenyan , Nan Jiajun , Sun Liang , Wang Yiran , Wang Shiqing
Published: March 2023

In this study, a Cr3C2-NiCr cermet cladding layer was prepared on the surface of Q235 steel via a high-speed laser cladding method. The effects of laser power, scanning speed, and overlap rate on the microstructure, cladding quality, and interfacial elements diffusion of Cr3C2-NiCr/Q235 steel were studied. The results show that there was an obvious transition layer at the interface of the Cr3C2-NiCr cladding layer and Q235 steel, indicating that the Cr3C2-NiCr cladding layer had an adequate metallurgical bond with the matrix. Fe, Cr, and Ni were diffused distinctly between the cladding layer and the matrix. The height and width of the Cr3C2-NiCr cladding layer increased, while the dilution rate decreased with the increase in the laser power. The maximum thickness of the transition layer was about 50 μm for the 6 mm/s sample, the weld heat affected zone was smaller, and it was shown that the productivity can be effectively improved. The sample with a 40% overlap rate exhibited the best flatness. The optimal laser power, scanning speed, and overlap rate of the Cr3C2-NiCr/Q235 steel were 1500 W, 6 mm/s, and 40%, respectively.
The Effect of Sintering Temperature on Vickers Microhardness and Flexural Strength of Translucent Multi-Layered Zirconia Dental Materials
Authors: Alfahed Bashayer , Alayad Abdullah
Published: March 2023

This study evaluated the effects of the sintering temperature on Vickers microhardness and three-point flexural strength values of two multi-layered zirconia materials. Multi-layered zirconia systems with four distinct layers were selected: DD cube ONE ML (4Y-TZP) and DD cubeX2 ML (5Y-TZP). In total, 96 plate-shaped A2-shade specimens were obtained using individual layers of these two zirconia materials. The individual layers were then divided equally into batches with three different sintering temperatures (1300, 1450, and 1600 °C), and the Vickers microhardness was assessed. Another group of 72 bar-shaped specimens was prepared from the same materials. These were similarly divided into three different sintering temperatures, and the flexural strength was assessed. SEM was used to conduct fractographic analyses. The data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 software with a p-value < 0.05. The microhardness and flexural strength of 4Y-TZP were higher than those of the 5Y-TZP at all the sintering temperatures. A significant difference was found in the microhardness and flexural strength values between groups sintered at different sintering temperatures (p < 0.05). The highest microhardness and flexural strength values were found at 1450 °C (p < 0.05). The microhardness values of different layers were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The sintering temperature and type of ceramic material significantly affected the microhardness and flexural strength. However, the layers did not significantly affect the microhardness.
Recent Progress on Natural Rubber-Based Materials Containing Metallic and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: State of the Art and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Guerra Nayrim B. , Bortoluz Jordana , Bystronski Andressa R. , Maddalozzo Ana Elisa D. , Restelatto Danielle , Roesch-Ely Mariana , Devine Declan M. , Giovanela Marcelo , Crespo Janaina S.
Published: March 2023

Diseases caused by infections are becoming harder to treat as the antibiotics used become less effective. A combination of strategies to develop active biomaterials that enhance antibacterial effects are desirable, especially ones that cause fewer side effects and promote healing properties. The combination of nanotechnology with substances that have intrinsic antibacterial activity can result in the advance of innovative biomedical materials. In this sense, the goal of this work is to provide a summary of natural rubber latex materials obtained from the Hevea brasiliensis tree loaded with metallic and metal oxide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles have unique size-dependent chemical and physical characteristic that make them appropriate for use in pharmaceutical and medical devices, while natural rubber latex is a natural and biocompatible polymer with an intrinsic antibacterial effect. Moreover, we outline here the origin, extraction methods, and composition of natural rubber latex and different techniques for the synthesis of nanoparticles, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches. Finally, we summarize, for the first time, the state of the art in obtaining natural rubber-based materials with metallic and metallic oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications.
Multicomponent Pharmaceutical Solids
Authors: Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane , Domínguez-Martín Alicia
Published: March 2023

Multicomponent pharmaceutical solids is a hot topic that brings together the knowledge of crystal engineering and the need to achieve novel and effective drugs at lower costs for the pharmaceutical industry [...]
Hydroxyapatite-Barium Titanate Biocoatings Using Room Temperature Coblasting
Authors: Dias Inês J. G. , Pádua A. Sofia , Pires Eduardo A. , Borges João P. M. R. , Silva Jorge C. , Lança M. Carmo
Published: March 2023

The use of orthopaedic and dental implants is expanding as a consequence of an ageing population and also due to illness or trauma in younger age groups. The implant must be biocompatible, bioactive and interact favourably with the recipient’s bone, as rapid osseointegration is key to success. In this work, Ti-6Al-4V plates were coated using the CoBlastTM technique, with hydroxyapatite (HAp) and HAp/BaTiO3 (barium titanate, BT) non-piezoelectric cubic nanopowders (HAp/cBT) and piezoelectric tetragonal micropowders (HAp/tBT). The addition of BT, a piezoelectric ceramic, is a strategy to accelerate osseointegration by using surface electric charges as cues for cells. For comparison with commercial coatings, plates were coated with HAp using the plasma spray technique. Using XRD and FTIR, both plasma spray and CoBlastTM coatings showed crystalline HAp and no presence of by-products. However, the XRD of the plasma-sprayed coatings revealed the presence of amorphous HAp. The average surface roughness was close to the coatings’ thickness (≈5 μm for CoBlastTM and ≈13 μm for plasma spray). Cytotoxicity assays proved that the coatings are biocompatible. Therefore, it can be concluded that for HAp-based coatings, CoBlastTM is a viable alternative to plasma spray, with the advantage of facilitating room temperature addition of other ceramics, like piezoelectric BaTiO3.
Assessing Effects of Multi-Scale Landscape Pattern and Habitats Attributes on Taxonomic and Functional Diversity of Urban River Birds
Authors: Mao Qian , Sun Jianxin , Deng Yuanyuan , Wu Zhaolu , Bai Haotian
Published: March 2023

Several studies have revealed that urban rivers with relatively complete habitat structures can support a high level of biodiversity in urban areas. However, few studies have analyzed the impact of the plan, design, and management of multi-scale urban riverside green space on bird communities by assessing several aspects of diversity (e.g., taxonomic and functional). In this study, we explored bird community variation (taxonomic and functional) among three rivers (28 sampling sites) with different levels of human disturbance along the urban development gradient in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China, during an annual cycle. This study related bird species richness and functional diversity to environmental variables at three spatial scales: landscape metrics at two different landscape scales (500 and 100 m radius) and vegetation structure at patch scales (20 m radius). Using partial least squares regression (PLSR) and multiple linear regression, we found that bird species richness and functional diversity were strongly related to various landscape- and patch-level variables. Multiple linear regression models revealed that, compared with the richness influenced by explanatory variables on three spatial scales (500, 100, and 20 m), the functional diversity was significantly influenced by explanatory variables on the 100 and 20 m scales. Tree cover at the 20 m scale had significantly positive impacts on bird species richness and functional diversity. Forest land in the 100 m scale had a significantly positive effect on bird species richness and functional diversity, while construction land in the two landscape scales (the 500- and 100 m scales) had a significantly negative effect on species richness. Accordingly, we suggest that urban riverside green space should be planned and managed at multiple scales.
Characteristics of Fragments of Woodland and Their Influence on the Distribution of Soil Fauna in Agricultural Landscape
Authors: Horňák Ondřej , Šarapatka Bořivoj , Machač Ondřej , Mock Andrej , Tuf Ivan Hadrián
Published: March 2023

Fragments of woodland represent important natural and semi-natural elements that contribute to ecological stability and biodiversity in a landscape. In the Czech Republic, they are part of the Territorial System of Ecological Stability (TSES), which consists of bio-centers, bio-corridors, and interaction elements. The presence of fragments of woodland is of growing importance in the agricultural landscape, where they provide effective protection against soil erosion and serve as a refuge for many animals, whose presence is crucial in maintaining essential ecosystem functions. A functioning ecosystem is especially important in intensively farmed landscapes, which are exposed to frequent and heavy disturbance. Our aim was to evaluate the influence of certain habitat characteristics of fragments of woodland on the activity-density and species richness of selected groups of soil invertebrates (ground beetles, spiders, harvestmen, centipedes, millipedes, and isopods). The research was conducted in the agricultural landscape of South Moravia (Czech Republic) in the summers of 2016–2017, for which we used pitfall traps to collect soil invertebrates on preselected fragments of woodland. The results highlight a wide range of habitat preferences of individual groups of invertebrates, wherein it is not possible to clearly determine the most favorable environmental conditions for all organisms. Consequently, the priority should be to maintain the highest possible degree of heterogeneity among natural and semi-natural features, including with respect to their surrounding landscape. In addition, we found that due to their small size and width, fragments of woodland that are not included in the concept of bio-centers and bio-corridors can similarly support the activity-density and diversity of soil fauna.
Grassland Fragmentation: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Yezzi Alejandra , Nebbia Ana , Zalba Sergio
Published: March 2023

The fragmentation of natural environments is one of the most cited causes of the loss of biological diversity, and consequently it has received a great deal of attention from the scientific community for decades [...]
Sustainable Approaches in Whey Cheese Production: A Review
Authors: Bintsis Thomas , Papademas Photis
Published: March 2023

Whey cheeses have been produced from the very early steps of cheesemaking practices as a sustainable way to utilize whey, which is the main by-product of cheesemaking. Traditional whey cheeses, manufactured with similar processes, are Ricotta, Ricotta salata or Ricottone, and Ricotta fresca in Italy; Anthotyros, Myzithra, Manouri, Xynomyzithra, and Urda in Greece; Urda in Serbia and Romania as well as in other countries such as Israel; Lor in Turkey; Anari in Cyprus; Skuta in Croatia and Serbia; Gjetost and Brunost in Norway; Mesost and Messmör in Sweden; Mysuostur in Iceland; Myseost in Denmark; Requeijão in Portugal; and Requesón in Spain and Mexico. The production of whey cheese is based on the denaturation of whey proteins by heating to 88–92 °C. The specific processing conditions and aspects of the microbiology of whey cheeses are discussed. The special characteristics of whey cheeses, which are high pH and high moisture content, make them susceptible to microbial growth. Due to the limited shelf life of these products, extended research has been carried out to extend the shelf life of whey cheese. The sustainable preservation approaches, such as modified atmosphere packaging, addition of herbs and/or plant extracts, and bio-preservation methods are reviewed. Moreover, novel whey cheeses focused on functional properties have developed during the last 10 years.
Recurrence or de novo? Intradermal Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Scrotum: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Yamazaki Kaori , Maejima Maho , Saeki Hidehisa , Osada Shin-Ichi
Published: March 2023

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cutaneous malignancy, usually occurring in sun-exposed areas. Although BCC in the scrotal region is uncommon, it carries a higher risk of metastasis than BCC at other sites. Here, we report two cases of BCC that developed in the scrotal region: Case 1 presented as a superficial nodule and Case 2 as a subcutaneous nodule. Histopathologically, both tumors lacked continuity with the surface epidermis and formed an intradermal nodule. In Case 1, BCC occurred for the first time and presumably developed de novo. Case 2 underwent excision of a scrotal BCC 5 years previously, and the histopathological diagnosis at that time was nodular BCC. However, when the original specimen was re-examined, it was determined that, although the tumor had been completely resected, part of the lesion had moved away from the nodular area to represent a micronodular phenotype, an aggressive BCC subtype. We hypothesized that partial evolution from a nodular to a micronodular phenotype may have contributed to the recurrence of BCC in Case 2.
Influence of Age and Gender on Nasal Airway Patency as Measured by Active Anterior Rhinomanometry and Acoustic Rhinometry
Authors: Wang Jing-Jie , Chiang Yi-Fang , Jiang Rong-San
Published: March 2023

In this study, we aimed to investigate the influences of age and gender on nasal airway patency, as measured by both active anterior rhinomanometry (AAR) and acoustic rhinometry (AR). The nasal airway patency of healthy subjects was evaluated using AAR and AR. In AAR, the subjects generated airflow actively through inspiration and expiration in repetitions of 10, while nasal patency was measured at an inspiratory and expiratory reference pressure of 75 Pa. In AR, we assessed the geometry of the nasal cavity through the analysis of sound waves reflected from the nasal cavities in order to measure both cross-sectional areas and nasal volumes. The subjects were divided by gender, with all males and females then grouped by ages of 20–39 years, 40–59 years and ≥60 years. There were 40 subjects in each group. The mean resistance measured by AAR and the cross-sectional areas and nasal volumes measured by AR were not different between the different age groups; however, the cross-sectional areas and nasal volumes were found to be lesser in females than in males. Our results showed that nasal airway patency was not affected by age, while females were shown to have wider nasal passages than males.
Quantitative MR Neurography in Multifocal Motor Neuropathy and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Foesleitner Olivia , Knop Karl Christian , Lindenau Matthias , Preisner Fabian , Bäumer Philipp , Heiland Sabine , Bendszus Martin , Kronlage Moritz
Published: March 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the phenotype of multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in quantitative MR neurography. Methods: In this prospective study, 22 patients with ALS, 8 patients with MMN, and 10 healthy volunteers were examined with 3T MR neurography, using a high-resolution fat-saturated T2-weighted sequence, diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI), and a multi-echo T2-relaxometry sequence. The quantitative biomarkers fractional anisotropy (FA), radial and axial diffusivity (RD, AD), mean diffusivity (MD), cross-sectional area (CSA), T2-relaxation time, and proton spin density (PSD) were measured in the tibial nerve at the thigh and calf, and in the median, radial, and ulnar nerves at the mid-upper arm. Results: MMN showed a characteristic imaging pattern of decreased FA (p = 0.018), increased RD (p = 0.014), increased CSA (p < 0.001), increased T2-relaxation time (p < 0.001), and increased PSD (p = 0.025) in the upper arm nerves compared to ALS and controls. ALS patients did not differ from controls in any imaging marker, nor were there any group differences in the tibial nerve (p > 0.05). Conclusions: MMN shows a characteristic pattern of quantitative DTI and T2-relaxometry parameters in the upper-arm nerves, primarily indicating demyelination. Peripheral nerve changes in ALS seem to be below the detection level of current state-of-the-art quantitative MR neurography.
Liquid Biopsy in the Management of Breast Cancer Patients: Where Are We Now and Where Are We Going
Authors: Mazzitelli Carlotta , Santini Donatella , Corradini Angelo Gianluca , Zamagni Claudio , Trerè Davide , Montanaro Lorenzo , Taffurelli Mario
Published: March 2023

Liquid biopsy (LB) is an emerging diagnostic tool that analyzes biomarkers in the blood (and possibly in other body fluids) to provide information about tumor genetics and response to therapy. This review article provides an overview of LB applications in human cancer with a focus on breast cancer patients. LB methods include circulating tumor cells and cell-free tumor products, such as circulating tumor DNA. LB has shown potential in detecting cancer at an early stage, monitoring tumor progression and recurrence, and predicting patient response to therapy. Several studies have demonstrated its clinical utility in breast cancer patients. However, there are limitations to LB, including the lack of standardized assays and the need for further validation. Future potential applications of LB include identifying the minimal residual disease, early detection of recurrence, and monitoring treatment response in various cancer types. LB represents a promising non-invasive diagnostic tool with potential applications in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. Further research is necessary to fully understand its clinical utility and overcome its current limitations.
The Accuracy of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in Acute Gallbladder Disease
Authors: Dumbrava Bogdan-Daniel , Bass Gary Alan , Jumean Amro , Birido Nuha , Corbally Martin , Pereira Jorge , Biloslavo Alan , Zago Mauro , Walsh Thomas Noel
Published: March 2023

There is increasing recognition that point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), performed by the clinician at the bedside, can be a natural extension of the clinical examination—the modern abdominal “stethoscope” and provides an opportunity to expedite the care pathway for patients with acute gallbladder disease. The primary aims of this study were to benchmark the accuracy of surgeon-performed POCUS in suspected acute gallbladder disease against standard radiology or pathology reports and to compare time to POCUS diagnosis with time to definitive imaging. This prospective single-arm observational cohort study was conducted in four hospitals in Ireland, Italy, and Portugal to assess the accuracy of POCUS against standard radiology in patients with suspected acute biliary disease (ClinicalTrials.govIdentifier: NCT02682368). The findings of surgeon-performed POCUS were compared with those on definitive imaging or surgery. Of 100 patients recruited, 89 were suitable for comparative analysis, comparing POCUS with radiological findings in 84 patients and with surgical/histological findings in five. The overall global accuracy of POCUS was 88.7% (95% CI, 80.3–94.4%), with a sensitivity of 94.7% (95% CI, 85.3–98.9%), a specificity of 78.1% (95% CI, 60.03–90.7%), a positive likelihood ratio (LR+) of 4.33 and negative likelihood ratio (LR) of 0.07. The mean time from POCUS to the final radiological report was 11.9 h (range 0.06–54.9). In five patients admitted directly to surgery, the mean time between POCUS and incision was 2.30 h (range 1.5–5), which was significantly shorter than the mean time to formal radiology report. Sixteen patients were discharged from the emergency department, of whom nine did not need follow-up. Our study is one of the very few to demonstrate a high concordance between surgeon-performed POCUS of patients without a priori radiologic diagnosis of gallstone disease and shows that the expedited diagnosis afforded by POCUS can be reliably leveraged to deliver earlier definitive care for patients with acute gallbladder pathology, as the general surgeon skilled in POCUS is uniquely positioned to integrate it into their bedside assessment.
SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern: Presumptive Identification via Sanger Sequencing Analysis of the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) Region of the S Gene
Authors: Rodrigues Grazielle Motta , Volpato Fabiana Caroline Zempulski , Wink Priscila Lamb , Paiva Rodrigo Minuto , Barth Afonso Luís , de-Paris Fernanda
Published: March 2023

Variants of concern (VOCs) of SARS-CoV-2 are viral strains that have mutations associated with increased transmissibility and/or increased virulence, and their main mutations are in the receptor binding domain (RBD) region of the viral spike. This study aimed to characterize SARS-CoV-2 VOCs via Sanger sequencing of the RBD region and compare the results with data obtained via whole genome sequencing (WGS). Clinical samples (oro/nasopharyngeal) with positive RT-qPCR results for SARS-CoV-2 were used in this study. The viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2 was extracted and a PCR fragment of 1006 base pairs was submitted for Sanger sequencing. The results of the Sanger sequencing were compared to the lineage assigned by WGS using next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. A total of 37 specimens were sequenced via WGS, and classified as: VOC gamma (8); delta (7); omicron (10), with 3 omicron specimens classified as the BQ.1 subvariant and 12 specimens classified as non-VOC variants. The results of the partial Sanger sequencing presented as 100% in agreement with the WGS. The Sanger protocol made it possible to characterize the main SARS-CoV-2 VOCs currently circulating in Brazil through partial Sanger sequencing of the RBD region of the viral spike. Therefore, the sequencing of the RBD region is a fast and cost-effective laboratory tool for clinical and epidemiological use in the genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2.
In Vitro Evaluation of Tooth-Whitening Potential of Peroxide-Free OTC Dental Bleaching Agents
Authors: Grillon Marlene , Di Bella Enrico , Krejci Ivo , Ardu Stefano
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the tooth-whitening potential of five over-the-counter (OTC), peroxide-free dental bleaching methods as well as an experimental tooth-whitening solution containing 0.1% hydrogen peroxide complexed with doping agents with a gold standard (positive control) containing 16% carbamide peroxide. Material and Methods: Eighty permanent bovine incisor teeth were randomly allocated to eight different groups. Two teeth from each group were immerged into five staining solutions represented by coffee, tea, red wine, and curry mixed in warm oil or distilled water (control group) and stored at 37 °C for 28 days in an incubator. The teeth were then reallocated to the eight groups, resulting in ten samples per group, and each group was matched with a bleaching product. The bleaching procedures were executed following the manufacturer’s recommendations. The color of each sample was assessed over a white and black background using a quantitative numerical measurement approach with a calibrated spectrophotometer. Spectrophotometric measurements were performed after exposing the teeth to the bleaching agent for 60 min (T2), 100 min (T3), and 200 min (T4), and ΔE00 was calculated. Results: When analyzed over a white background, the mean ΔE00 values ranged from 2.14 (placebo) to 6.32 (Opalescence PF). When analyzed over a black background, the mean ΔE00 values ranged from 2.31 (placebo) to 5.78 (Opalescence PF). Statistically significant ΔE00 color changes over time for the eight groups and five staining solutions at T1 and T4 were assessed for both backgrounds using repeated ANOVA followed by Fisher’s LSD post hoc test (p-value < 0.01). Conclusions: All tested over-the-counter whitening kits except one exhibited positive color variation. However, the individual performance differed vastly from one brand to the other, and the overall performance was less effective compared to the conventional carbamide-peroxide-based positive control.
A Penetration Method for UAV Based on Distributed Reinforcement Learning and Demonstrations
Authors: Li Kexv , Wang Yue , Zhuang Xing , Yin Hao , Liu Xinyu , Li Hanyu
Published: March 2023

The penetration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is an essential and important link in modern warfare. Enhancing UAV’s ability of autonomous penetration through machine learning has become a research hotspot. However, the current generation of autonomous penetration strategies for UAVs faces the problem of excessive sample demand. To reduce the sample demand, this paper proposes a combination policy learning (CPL) algorithm that combines distributed reinforcement learning and demonstrations. Innovatively, the action of the CPL algorithm is jointly determined by the initial policy obtained from demonstrations and the target policy in the asynchronous advantage actor-critic network, thus retaining the guiding role of demonstrations in the initial training. In a complex and unknown dynamic environment, 1000 training experiments and 500 test experiments were conducted for the CPL algorithm and related baseline algorithms. The results show that the CPL algorithm has the smallest sample demand, the highest convergence efficiency, and the highest success rate of penetration among all the algorithms, and has strong robustness in dynamic environments.
Automated Drone Battery Management System—Droneport: Technical Overview
Authors: Bláha Lukáš , Severa Ondřej , Goubej Martin , Myslivec Tomáš , Reitinger Jan
Published: March 2023

The popularity of using vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial systems continues to rise. Although the use of these devices seems to be almost limitless, the main drawback is still the battery capacity and the need to replace or recharge it several times per hour. This article provides a technical overview of the development of an experimental mechatronic system for automatic drone battery management called Droneport. It was developed as a system with a landing platform, automatic battery exchange and recharging outside the drone, allowing a quick return to the mission. The first part presents its mechanical design, installed instrumentation and software environment. The next part is devoted to the description of the individual hardware components, highlighting the specific problems that had to be solved to optimize size, weight and robustness requirements. The final section summarizes our observations regarding the contribution of this tool to the autonomy of drones or UAVs in general.
Fault Diagnosis of PMSM Stator Winding Based on Continuous Wavelet Transform Analysis of Stator Phase Current Signal and Selected Artificial Intelligence Techniques
Authors: Pietrzak Przemyslaw , Wolkiewicz Marcin
Published: March 2023

High efficiency, high reliability and excellent dynamic performance have been key aspects considered in recent years when selecting motors for modern drive systems. These features characterize permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). This paper presents the application of continuous wavelet transform (CWT) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to the detection and classification of PMSM stator winding faults. The complex generalized Morse wavelet used for CWT analysis of three different diagnostic signals—the stator phase current, its envelope and the space vector module—is used to extract the symptoms most sensitive to the interturn short circuits (ITSCs) at the incipient stage of the damage. The effectiveness of automatic stator winding fault classification is compared for three selected ML algorithms: multilayer perceptron, support vector machine and k-nearest neighbors. The effect of the ML models’ hyperparameters on their accuracy is also verified. The high effectiveness of the proposed methodology is confirmed by the results of the experimental verification carried out for different load torque levels and supply voltage frequency values.