bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Femur Fractures during COVID-19 Pandemic Period: The Influence of Vaccination and Nosocomial COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Faggiani Marianna , Risitano Salvatore , Aprato Alessandro , Conforti Luigi , Massè Alessandro
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic management has led to a significant change in orthopedic surgical activity. During the pandemic, femur fractures in patients over 65 years of age have maintained a constant incidence. Our study will focus on this fragile population, analyzing the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection during hospital stays and the clinical and radiographic orthopedic outcomes. We also evaluated the va\riation of COVID-19 infection after health professionals’ vaccinations, and the influence of inter-hospital transfers caused by logistical and organizational aspects of the pandemic. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive and prospective study from 13 October 2020 to 15 March 2021. Participants were patients over 65 years of age with diagnoses of proximal femoral fractures with r surgical treatments indicated. We compared the SARS-CoV-2 infected patients during the stay with non-infected cases. A second evaluation was carried out dividing the patients into those who underwent inter-hospital transfers and a group without transfers. We subdivided the study period into two, according to the percentage of healthcare workers vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. The reported clinical variables included the Parker and Palmer Score, the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score, the Harris Hip Score, mortality, the Rush Score, and evaluation of reduction in radio-lucent lines in prosthetic implants. Results: Ninety-three patients were studied. The whole positive COVID cohort (11.83%) was hospitalized during the period when less than 80% of health workers were vaccinated (p = 0.02). The COVID cohort and the patients transferred before surgery had longer stays in the Emergency Room (p = 0.019; p = 0.00007) and longer lengths of stay compared to the other patients (p = 0.00001; p = 0.001). Mortality was higher both in the infected group and in the patients who underwent a transfer before the surgical procedure (18.18% vs. 1.22 %; p = 0.003. 25% vs. 6.85%; p = 0.02). In terms of orthopedic outcomes measured through the third month of follow-up, we found worse score results in functional and radiographic outcomes in the COVID positive cohort and in the transferred patients’ cohort. Conclusions: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients treated for proximal femur fracture was statistically significant. Patients with Coronavirus during hospitalization obtained poor short-term radiographic and functional results and increased peri-operative mortality. The incidence of intra-hospital infection was high during the period in which health professionals were not yet covered by the anti-COVID vaccination cycle. Patients who were transferred between two hospitals due to pandemic-related management issues also achieved reduced outcomes compared to non-transferred cases, with increased mortality.
The Evolution, Current Indications and Outcomes of Cementless Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Schwabe Maria T. , Hannon Charles P.
Published: November 2022

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been performed by orthopedic surgeons for decades, but the cementless TKA has only recently gained much interest in the world of arthroplasty. Initially, early designs had multiple complications, particularly with aseptic loosening due to osteolysis and micromotion. However, modifications have shown good outcomes and excellent survivorship. Over the last several decades, changes in implant designs as well as implant materials/coatings have helped with bone in growth and stability. Furthermore, surgeons have been performing TKA in younger and more obese patients as these populations have been increasing. Good results from the cementless TKA compared to cemented TKA may be a better option in these more challenging populations, as several studies have shown greater survivorship in patients that are younger and have a greater BMI. Additionally, a cementless TKA may be more cost effective, which remains a concern in today’s healthcare environment. Overall, cemented and cementless TKA have great results in modern times and there is still a debate as to which implant is superior.
Differential Cytokine Levels during Normothermic Kidney Perfusion with Whole Blood- or Red Blood Cell-Based Perfusates—Results of a Scoping Review and Experimental Study
Authors: De Beule Julie , Keppens Delphine , Korf Hannelie , Jochmans Ina
Published: November 2022

The ideal composition of the perfusate for normothermic kidney perfusion is unknown, though the perfusate commonly used to perfuse human kidneys contains leukocyte-depleted packed red blood cells (RBC), as this is believed to prevent excessive inflammation. We performed a systematic search identifying 19 articles reporting on cytokine levels during normothermic pig or human kidney perfusion. Cytokine levels varied widely across the reported studies. No direct comparisons of perfusate cytokines during perfusion with RBC or whole blood were performed, and no data on how these levels are influenced by ischemia are available. Therefore, we compared perfusate IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-10, IL-8, and CCL2 levels during 4 h normothermic pig kidney perfusion with a whole blood- or RBC-based perfusate. Kidneys were exposed to either 1 h of warm or 22 h of cold ischemia. We found no evidence of different perfusate cytokine or gene expression levels in whole blood or RBC perfusions. There was no clear evidence to suggest that cytokine concentrations differ between ischemically injured kidneys and controls. In conclusion, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are detectable in the perfusate and urine of kidneys undergoing normothermic perfusion. It is unclear how cytokine levels change in different ischemic conditions and whether the use of a leukocyte filter plays a role.
Preparation and Characterization of a Polyetherketoneketone/Hydroxyapatite Hybrid for Dental Applications
Authors: Lu Wenhsuan , Li Conglei , Wu Jian , Ma Zhongshi , Zhang Yadong , Xin Tianyi , Liu Xiaomo , Chen Si
Published: November 2022

Here, we developed a new synthetic method for the production of a new class of polymeric inorganic hybrid biomaterial that has potential for dental implant applications and, in general, other orthopedic applications owing to its excellent mechanical properties and biomechanical compatibility. The new hybrid biomaterial is a composite consisting of polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) and hydroxyapatite (HA). This hybrid material boasts several unique features, including its high HA loading (up to 50 wt%), which is close to that of natural human bone; the homogeneous HA distribution in the PEKK matrix without phase separation; and the fact that the addition of HA has no effect on the molecular weight of PEKK. Nanoindentation analysis was used to investigate the mechanical properties of the composite, and its nano/microstructure variations were investigated through a structural model developed here. Through nanoindentation technology, the newly developed PEKK/HA hybrid biomaterial has an indentation modulus of 12.1 ± 2.5 GPa and a hardness of 0.42 ± 0.09 GPa, which are comparable with those of human bone. Overall, the new PEKK/HA biomaterial exhibits excellent biomechanical compatibility and shows great promise for application to dental and orthopedic devices.
AMPK/mTOR Pathway Is Involved in Autophagy Induced by Magnesium-Incorporated TiO2 Surface to Promote BMSC Osteogenic Differentiation
Authors: Wang Guifang , Luo Jiaxin , Qiao Yuqin , Zhang Dongdong , Liu Yulan , Zhang Wenjie , Liu Xuanyong , Jiang Xinquan
Published: November 2022

Magnesium has been extensively utilized to modify titanium implant surfaces based on its important function in promoting osteogenic differentiation. Autophagy has been proven to play a vital role in bone metabolism. Whether there is an association between autophagy and magnesium in promoting osteogenic differentiation remains unclear. In the present study, we focused on investigating the role of magnesium ions in early osteogenic activity and the underlying mechanism related to autophagy. Different concentrations of magnesium were embedded in micro-structured titanium surface layers using the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) technique. The incorporation of magnesium benefited cell adhesion, spreading, and viability; attenuated intracellular ATP concentrations and p-mTOR levels; and upregulated p-AMPK levels. This indicates the vital role of the ATP-related AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway in the autophagy process associated with osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) induced by magnesium modification on titanium surfaces. The enhanced osteogenic differentiation and improved cellular autophagy activity of BMSCs in their extraction medium further confirmed the function of magnesium ions. The results of the present study advance our understanding of the mechanism by which magnesium regulates BMSC osteogenic differentiation through autophagy regulation. Moreover, endowing implants with the ability to activate autophagy may be a promising strategy for enhancing osseointegration in the translational medicine field in the future.
Olive Leaf Extracts for a Green Synthesis of Silver-Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Alhajri Hassna Mohammed , Aloqaili Sadeem Salih , Alterary Seham S. , Alqathama Aljawharah , Abdalla Ashraf N. , Alzhrani Rami M. , Alotaibi Bander S. , Alsaab Hashem O.
Published: November 2022

Green biosynthesis, one of the most dependable and cost-effective methods for producing carbon nanotubes, was used to synthesize nonhazardous silver-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (SFMWCNTs) successfully. It has been shown that the water-soluble organic materials present in the olive oil plant play a vital role in converting silver ions into silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). Olive-leaf extracts contain medicinal properties and combining these extracts with Ag-NPs is often a viable option for enhancing drug delivery; thus, this possibility was employed for in vitro treating cancer cells as a proof of concept. In this study, the green technique for preparing SFMWCNTs composites using plant extracts was followed. This process yielded various compounds, the most important of which were Hydroxytyrosol, Tyrosol, and Oleuropein. Subsequently, a thin film was fabricated from the extract, resulting in a natural polymer. The obtained nanomaterials have an absorption peak of 419 nm in their UV–Vis. spectra. SEM and EDS were also used to investigate the SFMWCNT nanocomposites’ morphology simultaneously. Moreover, the MTT assay was used to evaluate the ability of SFMWCNTs to suppress cancer cell viability on different cancer cell lines, MCF7 (human breast adenocarcinoma), HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), and SW620 (human colorectal cancer). Using varying doses of SFMWCNT resulted in the most significant cell viability inhibition, indicating the good sensitivity of SFMWCNTs for treating cancer cells. It was found that performing olive-leaf extraction at a low temperature in an ice bath leads to superior results, and the developed SFMWCNT nanocomposites could be potential treatment options for in vitro cancer cells.
Biomass-Derived Plant Extracts in Macromolecular Chitosan Matrices as a Green Coating for PLA Films
Authors: Zemljič Lidija Fras , Glaser Tjaša Kraševac , Plohl Olivija , Anžel Ivan , Šimat Vida , Čagalj Martina , Mežnar Eva , Malin Valentina , Sterniša Meta , Možina Sonja Smole
Published: November 2022

Due to the growing problem of food and packaging waste, environmental awareness, and customer requirements for food safety, there is a great need for the development of innovative and functional packaging. Among these developments, the concept of active packaging is at the forefront. The shortcoming in this area is that there is still a lack of multifunctional concepts, as well as green approaches. Therefore, this work focuses on the development of active chemical substances of natural origin applied as a coating on polylactic acid (PLA) films. Biopolymer chitosan and plant extracts rich in phenolic compounds (blackberry leaves—Rubus fruticosus, needles of prickly juniper—Juniperus oxycedrus) obtained from plant biomass from Southeastern Europe were selected in this work. In order to increase the effectiveness of individual substances and to introduce multifunctionality, they were combined in the form of different colloidal structural formulations. The plant extracts were embedded in chitosan biopolymer particles and dispersed in a macromolecular chitosan solution. In addition, a two-layer coating, the first of a macromolecular chitosan solution, and the second of a dispersion of the embedded extracts in chitosan particles, was applied to the PLA films as a novel approach. The success of the coatings was monitored by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and the wettability was evaluated by contact angle measurements. Scanning electron microscopy SEM tracked the morphology and homogeneity of the coating. Antioxidation was studied by DPPH and ABTS spectrophotometric tests, and microbiological analysis of the films was performed according to the ISO 22196 Standard. Desorption of the coating from the PLA was monitored by reducing the elemental composition of the films themselves. The successful functionalization of PLA was demonstrated, while the XPS and ATR-FTIR analyses clearly showed the peaks of elemental composition of the extracts and chitosan on the PLA surface. Moreover, in all cases, the contact angle of the bilayer coatings decreased by more than 35–60% and contributed to the anti-fogging properties. The desorption experiments, due to decrease in the concentration of the specific typical element (nitrogen), indicated some migration of substances from the PLA’s surface. The newly developed films also exhibited antioxidant properties, with antioxidant ABTS efficiencies ranging from 83.5 to 100% and a quite high inhibition of Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, averaging over 95%. The current functionalization of PLA simultaneously confers antifogging, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and drives the development of a biodegradable and environmentally friendly composite material using green chemistry principles.
HAPPY: Hip Arthroscopy Portal Placement Using Augmented Reality
Authors: Song Tianyu , Sommersperger Michael , Baran The Anh , Seibold Matthias , Navab Nassir
Published: November 2022

Correct positioning of the endoscope is crucial for successful hip arthroscopy. Only with adequate alignment can the anatomical target area be visualized and the procedure be successfully performed. Conventionally, surgeons rely on anatomical landmarks such as bone structure, and on intraoperative X-ray imaging, to correctly place the surgical trocar and insert the endoscope to gain access to the surgical site. One factor complicating the placement is deformable soft tissue, as it can obscure important anatomical landmarks. In addition, the commonly used endoscopes with an angled camera complicate hand–eye coordination and, thus, navigation to the target area. Adjusting for an incorrectly positioned endoscope prolongs surgery time, requires a further incision and increases the radiation exposure as well as the risk of infection. In this work, we propose an augmented reality system to support endoscope placement during arthroscopy. Our method comprises the augmentation of a tracked endoscope with a virtual augmented frustum to indicate the reachable working volume. This is further combined with an in situ visualization of the patient anatomy to improve perception of the target area. For this purpose, we highlight the anatomy that is visible in the endoscopic camera frustum and use an automatic colorization method to improve spatial perception. Our system was implemented and visualized on a head-mounted display. The results of our user study indicate the benefit of the proposed system compared to baseline positioning without additional support, such as an increased alignment speed, improved positioning error and reduced mental effort. The proposed approach might aid in the positioning of an angled endoscope, and may result in better access to the surgical area, reduced surgery time, less patient trauma, and less X-ray exposure during surgery.
Harmonization Strategies in Multicenter MRI-Based Radiomics
Authors: Stamoulou Elisavet , Spanakis Constantinos , Manikis Georgios C. , Karanasiou Georgia , Grigoriadis Grigoris , Foukakis Theodoros , Tsiknakis Manolis , Fotiadis Dimitrios I. , Marias Kostas
Published: November 2022

Radiomics analysis is a powerful tool aiming to provide diagnostic and prognostic patient information directly from images that are decoded into handcrafted features, comprising descriptors of shape, size and textural patterns. Although radiomics is gaining momentum since it holds great promise for accelerating digital diagnostics, it is susceptible to bias and variation due to numerous inter-patient factors (e.g., patient age and gender) as well as inter-scanner ones (different protocol acquisition depending on the scanner center). A variety of image and feature based harmonization methods has been developed to compensate for these effects; however, to the best of our knowledge, none of these techniques has been established as the most effective in the analysis pipeline so far. To this end, this review provides an overview of the challenges in optimizing radiomics analysis, and a concise summary of the most relevant harmonization techniques, aiming to provide a thorough guide to the radiomics harmonization process.
A Combined Measurement Method for the Seafloor Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Network
Authors: Ma Jinye , Zhao Jianhu
Published: November 2022

The idea of constructing the “GNSS-like” seafloor geodetic network for underwater positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) has been proposed by many countries. Based on this idea, this paper introduces the principle of the seafloor PNT network and provides a combined measurement method, including the absolute positioning and the relative positioning. Experimental results show that the positioning difference between the proposed method and circle-sailing positioning is approximately 10 cm, and the observation efficiency is higher than the existing measurement in the seafloor PNT network. In addition, a model is derived to determine the optimal configuration of the unit network (the basic component of the seafloor PNT network), considering the ranging capability of acoustic beacons, which is helpful to balance the side length of the unit network and the number of observation sessions in the relative positioning. Finally, a chain coordinate transfer strategy in the whole seafloor PNT network is proposed, and the positions where the absolute positioning should be carried out in the whole network are derived based on the conditional adjustment model. Based on this strategy, the design schemes of a seafloor PNT network with centimeter, decimeter, and meter positioning accuracy when the acoustic velocity measuring accuracy is 0.02 m/s and the time measuring accuracy is 10−5 s, are given in the experimental section.
Bioremediation of Multiple Heavy Metals Mediated by Antarctic Marine Isolated Dietzia psychralcaliphila JI1D
Authors: Ausuri Janardan , Dell’Anno Filippo , Vitale Giovanni Andrea , Palma Esposito Fortunato , Funari Valerio , Franci Gianluigi , Galdiero Massimiliano , Della Sala Gerardo , Tedesco Pietro , Coppola Daniela , de Pascale Donatella
Published: November 2022

Extreme environments host numerous microorganisms perfectly adapted to survive in such harsh conditions. In recent years, many bacteria isolated from these inhospitable environments have shown interesting biotechnological applications, including the bioremediation of polluted sites by hydrocarbons and heavy metals. In this work, we present Dietzia psychralcaliphila JI1D, a psychrophilic bacterium, isolated from Deception Island, Antarctica, which is able to resist high concentrations (up to 1000 ppm) of heavy metals and to favor their removal from polluted water systems. In detail, D. psychralcaliphila JI1D can actively promote the sequestration of arsenic, copper, and zinc from the medium up to a maximum of 31.6%, 49.4%, and 38.9%, respectively. Moreover, genome analysis allowed for the identification of heavy metal tolerance genes, thus shedding light on the mechanisms underlying the detoxification ability of the bacterium. Other than the demonstrated ability of D. psychralcaliphila JI1D to degrade polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, this study indicates the possibility of using this bacterium in the bioremediation of contaminated matrices, for example, those containing inorganic pollutants.
Seasonal and Spatial Variations in Fish Assemblage in the Yangtze Estuary and Adjacent Waters and Their Relationship with Environmental Factors
Authors: Chen Zhaomin , Ren Qingqiang , Liu Chunlong , Xian Weiwei
Published: November 2022

In this work, we identified the seasonal and spatial variations in fish assemblages and their relation to environmental variables in the Yangtze Estuary and adjacent waters. A total of 61 fish species in 32 families were identified over four seasons; of these, 12 species were dominant and Harpadon nehereus was the most dominant species. Fish varied in abundance, biomass, and species composition in different seasons; both biomass and abundance were highest in autumn and lowest in spring. Fish can be spatially divided into high-salinity assemblages and low-salinity assemblages. The spatial variation in fish assemblages was caused by the selectivity and adaptability of species for the environmental conditions of the estuary and the seasonal variation in fish assemblage structure likely resulted from migrations of dominant taxa associated with fish spawning and foraging behavior as well as the environment. The results of CCA analysis showed that temperature, depth, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll were the major factors affecting the fish assemblage differences throughout the seasons. Of these, temperature drove the seasonal variation in assemblage structure, while salinity significantly affected the spatial distribution of assemblages. This paper revealed the relationship between the seasonal and spatial distribution patterns of the fish assemblage and environmental factors and the results could provide a scientific basis for the management and sustainable utilization of fishery resources in the Yangtze Estuary and adjacent waters.
Numerical Study on Multiple Parameters of Sinkage Simulation between the Track Plate of the Deep-Sea Mining Vehicle and the Seafloor Soil
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Lu Haining , Yang Jianmin , Deng Liwen , Liu Mingyue , Li Shuang
Published: November 2022

The seafloor soil is characterized by high water content, strong compressibility, and low shear strength. Deep-sea mining vehicles (DSMV) are prone to sinking when walking on the surface of the soil, which will cause significant reduction in traction performance. Therefore, it is necessary to study the sinkage performance. The track is usually considered the travelling mechanism of the DSMV, and the track plate is an important part of the movement system. The study of the interaction between the track plate and the soil is of great significance to the study of the DSMV’s sinkage performance. In this study, firstly, based on the in situ seafloor soil samples of 1000 m in a region of the South China Sea collected by a box sampler, the physical and mechanical parameters of soil were measured by indoor geotechnical instruments. Secondly, an elastoplastic soil numerical model similar to that of in situ soil was established. Based on coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) method, a numerical model of the interaction between the track plate and soil was established. Considering the dynamic process, the structure of the track plate and the physical and mechanical properties of the soil, the numerical simulation were carried out under different conditions, such as different dynamic loading, the plate structural parameters and the soil physical and mechanical properties. It is found that the plate-sinkage curve were significantly influenced by these factors. The findings are as follows, firstly, with the increase in the pressure loading rate, the soil sinkage decreasing at the same pressure. On the other hand, with the increase in velocity, soil flow was accelerated, and the nonlinear relationship between resistance and velocity became more obvious; the L/B ratio of different track plates affects the variation law of the curve, and the maximum sinkage gradually decreases as the ratio of L/B increases; with the increase in the grouser height, the maximum sinkage gradually decreases, and the pressure-sinkage curve changes obviously with the grouser type; and different soil physical and mechanical properties affect the variation of pressure-sinkage curve. Innovatively, the heterogeneous soil stress distribution mode was obtained through the fitting function and Python secondary development. This study can provide a reference for studying the sinkage performance of the DSMV.
Application of Singularity Theory to the Distribution of Heavy Metals in Surface Sediments of the Zhongsha Islands
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Shiqiao , Zhang Li , Zhou Yongzhang , Liang Jinqiang , Lu Jing’an , Hu Xiaoqiang , Liu Liang , Chen Liang , Zhang Jingwei , Xu Cheng , Dong Xinzhu
Published: November 2022

This research aimed to use nonlinear theory and technology to describe the spatial distribution of heavy metals in the surface sediments of the Zhongsha Islands Sea region. The goal of this study is to explore the spatial distribution characteristics of heavy metals in the surface sediments of the Zhongsha Islands. The singularity theory and method were used to delineate heavy metal geochemical anomalies and the generalized self-similarity analysis method was used to decompose heavy metal geochemical anomalies and background concentrations. The results showed that there were abnormally high concentrations of heavy metals in the deep-sea plain area and in the western central sand trough area. The results of this study can inform priority areas for environmental monitoring. The element anomalies extracted by the singularity analysis method in this paper can be a guide to the next step in the investigation and provide the basis for the regional environmental assessment.
A Detection Method for Crop Fungal Spores Based on Microfluidic Separation Enrichment and AC Impedance Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Guo Boxue , Wang Yafei , Hu Lian , Yang Ning , Mao Hanping
Published: November 2022

The timely monitoring of airborne crop fungal spores is important for maintaining food security. In this study, a method based on microfluidic separation and enrichment and AC impedance characteristics was proposed to detect spores of fungal pathogens that cause diseases on crops. Firstly, a microfluidic chip with tertiary structure was designed for the direct separation and enrichment of Ustilaginoidea virens spores, Magnaporthe grisea spores, and Aspergillus niger spores from the air. Then, the impedance characteristics of fungal spores were measured by impedance analyzer in the enrichment area of a microfluidic chip. The impedance characteristics of fungal spores were analyzed, and four impedance characteristics were extracted: absolute value of impedance (abs), real part of impedance (real), imaginary part of impedance (imag), and impedance phase (phase). Finally, based on the impedance characteristics of extracted fungal spores, K-proximity (KNN), random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM) classification models were established to classify the three fungal spores. The results showed that the microfluidic chip designed in this study could well collect the spores of three fungal diseases, and the collection rate was up to 97. The average accuracy of KNN model, RF model, and SVM model for the detection of three disease spores was 93.33, 96.44 and 97.78, respectively. The F1-Score of KNN model, RF model, and SVM model was 90, 94.65, and 96.18, respectively. The accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-Score of the SVM model were all the highest, at 97.78, 96.67, 96.69, and 96.18, respectively. Therefore, the detection method of crop fungal spores based on microfluidic separation, enrichment, and impedance characteristics proposed in this study can be used for the detection of airborne crop fungal spores, providing a basis for the subsequent detection of crop fungal spores.
Morphological and Molecular Identification of Peach Brown Rot Disease in Tibet and Exploration of the Biocontrol Efficiency of Trichoderma
Authors: Zhang Shuwu , Xiang Dong , Sun Chenxi , Han Kaidi , Li Tong , Zhou Jingjiang , Xu Bingliang
Published: November 2022

Brown rot caused by the pathogen of the genus Monilinia is the most destructive disease in peaches worldwide. It has seriously reduced the economic value of the peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) in Nyingchi and Qamdo, Tibet, China. Monilinia fructicola, Monilia mumecola, and M. yunnanensis have been reported as the causal agents of brown rot disease on stone fruits in China. In this study, we report on the identification of M. yunnanensis in peach orchards in Nyingchi and Qamdo, Tibet. From twenty-three isolates with the same characteristics, we identified the representative single-spore isolates T8-1, T8-8, and T8-20 as M. yunnanensis and confirmed that the Tibet brown rot disease was caused by M. yunnanensis based on the morphological characteristics and molecular analyses. The phylogenetic analysis of the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) and β-tubulin (TUB2) nucleotide sequences and the multiplex PCR identification revealed that the representative isolates T8-1, T8-8, and T8-20 were more closely related to M. yunnanensis than other Monilinia species. Furthermore, the biocontrol strain of Trichoderma T6 presented significant antagonistic activity on the M. yunnanensis T8-1 isolate (T8-1) among the five Trichoderma strains. The highest inhibitory rates for Trichoderma T6 and its fermentation product against T8-1 mycelial growth were 72.13% and 68.25%, respectively. The obvious inhibition zone displayed on the colony interaction area between the colony of T8-1 isolate and Trichoderma T6 and the morphological characterization of the T8-1 hyphae were enlarged and malformed after inoculation with the Trichoderma T6 fermentation product at 20-fold dilution. Our results indicate that the strain of Trichoderma T6 could be considered as a beneficial biocontrol agent in managing brown rot of peach fruit disease.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of the Cardiac Chambers in Asthmatic Patients: The BADA (Blood Pressure Levels, Clinical Features and Markers of Subclinical Cardiovascular Damage of Asthma Patients) Study-ECO
Authors: Di Raimondo Domenico , Musiari Gaia , Rizzo Giuliana , Pirera Edoardo , Benfante Alida , Battaglia Salvatore , Colomba Daniela , Tuttolomondo Antonino , Scichilone Nicola , Pinto Antonio
Published: November 2022

The “Blood pressure levels, clinical features and markers of subclinical cardiovascular Damage of Asthma patients” (BADA) study is aimed at defining the cardiovascular risk profile and the markers of subclinical and clinical vascular and cardiac damage in asthmatic patients. Very few studies have assessed asthmatic patients without concomitant heart disease through a transthoracic echocardiogram. The goal of the present study is to investigate the prevalence of morphology and/or function changes in the cardiac chambers of a sample of 86 patients with chronic asthma, referred to the dedicated outpatient unit of the Division of Respiratory Diseases of the AOUP “P. Giaccone” of the University of Palermo, and the results obtained were compared with those of a control group without respiratory or cardiovascular diseases. Patients with asthma showed a marked and widespread involvement of the four cardiac chambers compared with the controls: enlargement of the two atria, greater left ventricular remodeling with interventricular septal thickening, increased indexed left ventricular mass with a significantly greater percentage of patients with overt left ventricular hypertrophy, worse left ventricular diastolic function proven by the significant difference in the E/A ratio, and worse right ventricular systolic function with global right ventricular dysfunction estimated by the Myocardial Performance Index (Tei Index). Multivariate regression analysis, after adjustment for essential hypertension, hypertension severity, diabetes, Body Mass Index, and creatinine clearance, seems to indicate that the indexed left ventricular mass, right atrial volume, and right ventricular Tei index (but not left ventricular hypertrophy) correlate significantly with asthma, severe asthma, and FEV1 (and to a lesser extent with asthma duration). No correlation is apparent between inhaled therapy (ICS, SABA) and myocardial involvement. These results seem to confirm that a more in-depth cardiovascular evaluation in patients with chronic respiratory disease allows the identification of unrecognized cardiovascular involvement. A transthoracic echocardiogram performed in asthmatic patients without clinically overt signs or symptoms of cardiovascular impairment has identified some features indicative of an early subclinical cardiac impairment not found in the control group. These findings, considering also the higher frequency of hypertension in the asthma group, deserve further validation in the future.
Effect of PM2.5 Levels on ED Visits for Respiratory Causes in a Greek Semi-Urban Area
Authors: Mermiri Maria , Mavrovounis Georgios , Kanellopoulos Nikolaos , Papageorgiou Konstantina , Spanos Michalis , Kalantzis Georgios , Saharidis Georgios , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos , Pantazopoulos Ioannis
Published: November 2022

Fine particulate matter that have a diameter of <2.5 μm (PM2.5) are an important factor of anthropogenic pollution since they are associated with the development of acute respiratory illnesses. The aim of this prospective study is to examine the correlation between PM2.5 levels in the semi-urban city of Volos and Emergency Department (ED) visits for respiratory causes. ED visits from patients with asthma, pneumonia and upper respiratory infection (URI) were recorded during a one-year period. The 24 h PM2.5 pollution data were collected in a prospective manner by using twelve fully automated air quality monitoring stations. PM2.5 levels exceeded the daily limit during 48.6% of the study period, with the mean PM2.5 concentration being 30.03 ± 17.47 μg/m3. PM2.5 levels were significantly higher during winter. When PM2.5 levels were beyond the daily limit, there was a statistically significant increase in respiratory-related ED visits (1.77 vs. 2.22 visits per day; p: 0.018). PM2.5 levels were also statistically significantly related to the number of URI-related ED visits (0.71 vs. 0.99 visits/day; p = 0.01). The temperature was negatively correlated with ED visits (r: −0.21; p < 0.001) and age was found to be positively correlated with ED visits (r: 0.69; p < 0.001), while no statistically significant correlation was found concerning humidity (r: 0.03; p = 0.58). In conclusion, PM2.5 levels had a significant effect on ED visits for respiratory causes in the city of Volos.
Feasibility of Precision Medicine in Hypertension Management—Scope and Technological Aspects
Authors: Nitzan Meir , Nitzan Itamar
Published: November 2022

Personalized management of diseases by considering relevant patient features enables optimal treatment, instead of management according to an average patient. Precision management of hypertension is important, because both susceptibility to complications and response to treatment vary between individuals. While the use of genomic and proteomic personal features for widespread precision hypertension management is not practical, other features, such as age, ethnicity, and cardiovascular diseases, have been utilized in guidelines for hypertension management. In precision medicine, more blood-pressure-related clinical and physiological characteristics in the patient’s profile can be utilized for the determination of the threshold of hypertension and optimal treatment. Several non-invasive and simple-to-use techniques for the measurement of hypertension-related physiological features are suggested for use in precision management of hypertension. In order to provide precise management of hypertension, accurate measurement of blood pressure is required, but the available non-invasive blood pressure measurement techniques, auscultatory sphygmomanometry and oscillometry, have inherent significant inaccuracy—either functional or technological—limiting the precision of personalized management of hypertension. A novel photoplethysmography-based technique for the measurement of systolic blood pressure that was recently found to be more accurate than the two available techniques can be utilized for more precise and personalized hypertension management.
The Development of an Infrastructure to Facilitate the Use of Whole Genome Sequencing for Population Health
Authors: Walton Nephi A. , Hafen Brent , Graceffo Sara , Sutherland Nykole , Emmerson Melanie , Palmquist Rachel , Formea Christine M. , Purcell Maricel , Heale Bret , Brown Matthew A. , Danford Christopher J. , Rachamadugu Sumathi I. , Person Thomas N. , Shortt Katherine A. , Christensen G. Bryce , Evans Jared M. , Raghunath Sharanya , Johnson Christopher P. , Knight Stacey , Le Viet T. , Anderson Jeffrey L. , Van Meter Margaret , Reading Teresa , Haslem Derrick S. , Hansen Ivy C. , Batcher Betsey , Barker Tyler , Sheffield Travis J. , Yandava Bhaskara , Taylor David P. , Ranade-Kharkar Pallavi , Giauque Christopher C. , Eyring Kenneth R. , Breinholt Jesse W. , Miller Mickey R. , Carter Payton R. , Gillman Jason L. , Gunn Andrew W. , Knowlton Kirk U. , Bonkowsky Joshua L. , Stefansson Kari , Nadauld Lincoln D. , McLeod Howard L.
Published: November 2022

The clinical use of genomic analysis has expanded rapidly resulting in an increased availability and utility of genomic information in clinical care. We have developed an infrastructure utilizing informatics tools and clinical processes to facilitate the use of whole genome sequencing data for population health management across the healthcare system. Our resulting framework scaled well to multiple clinical domains in both pediatric and adult care, although there were domain specific challenges that arose. Our infrastructure was complementary to existing clinical processes and well-received by care providers and patients. Informatics solutions were critical to the successful deployment and scaling of this program. Implementation of genomics at the scale of population health utilizes complicated technologies and processes that for many health systems are not supported by current information systems or in existing clinical workflows. To scale such a system requires a substantial clinical framework backed by informatics tools to facilitate the flow and management of data. Our work represents an early model that has been successful in scaling to 29 different genes with associated genetic conditions in four clinical domains. Work is ongoing to optimize informatics tools; and to identify best practices for translation to smaller healthcare systems.
An Empirical Study of Volatility in Cryptocurrency Market
Authors: Gupta Hemendra , Chaudhary Rashmi
Published: November 2022

Cryptocurrencies have gained a lot of attraction across the globe. Most observers of the cryptocurrency market will agree that crypto volatility is in a different league altogether. There has been a growing need to understand the nature of volatility in cryptocurrency. This paper analyzes the performance of four mostly traded, different cryptocurrencies in terms of their risk and return. The relationship between the return and returns volatility among different currencies has been examined considering the daily closing prices from 1 January 2017 to 30 June 2022, using the family of the GARCH model. The study has explored the spillover and asymmetric effect of volatility by using the DCC GARCH model and EGARCH model, respectively. The causal behavior among different cryptocurrencies has also been examined using Granger causality. There has been a strong spillover effect among different cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin and Ether, which are the top two cryptocurrencies with the highest market capitalization which have exhibited an asymmetric impact in their volatility as compared to the other two currencies, which are Litecoin and XRP.
Blockchain Platforms in Energy Markets—A Critical Assessment
Authors: Burger Christoph , Weinmann Jens
Published: November 2022

Compared to other applications of distributed ledger technologies, for example, in decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, and logistics, Blockchain applications in the energy industry have not found widespread dissemination and fell short of market expectations during the Blockchain hype in the late 2010s. In semi-structured qualitative interviews with leading providers in the energy industry, conducted from 2019 to 2021, hurdles in energy applications are compared with a control group of additional interviews with representatives of companies operating in IT and FinTech. The analysis uses a framework covering technical feasibility, desirability, and economic viability, as well as the role of regulatory frameworks. The interviews reveal that the first Blockchain applications suffered from a combination of technological constraints and inter-platform competition. Due to the permissionless configuration of the early energy Blockchains, they were slow in terms of transaction speed compared to existing platforms and prices per transaction were high, in addition to high degrees of complexity related to requirements from both critical-infrastructure systems and financial market regulation. The analysis further points to the slow adoption of Blockchain applications in the energy sector being related to business models rather focusing on products and platforms as well as on transactional rather than procedural use cases, with a high degree of standardization of the offering and low levels of inclusiveness concerning processes. The move from transaction platforms to innovation platforms and the emergence of Blockchain as a service provider—plus technical advances with regards to high-frequency transactions combined with the increasing importance of use cases, such as proof of origin for fuels or e-charging—may induce a shift from pilot applications to commercialization within the larger innovation ecosystem. While the involvement of Blockchain solutions in energy markets increases with pilot projects and with this, the acceptance of players and stakeholders in the energy ecosystem, a big hurdle for innovation remains the regulation of energy markets to allow for peer-to-peer trading, a usage-driven distribution of network costs, and bottom-up pricing markets.
Does Limited Liability Reduce Leveraged Risk?: The Case of Loan Portfolio Management
Authors: Barik Deb Narayan , Chakrabarty Siddhartha P.
Published: November 2022

Return–risk models are the two pillars of modern portfolio theory, which are widely used to make decisions in choosing the loan portfolio of a bank. Banks and other financial institutions are subjected to limited-liability protection. However, in most of the model formulation, limited liability is not taken into consideration. Accordingly, to address this, we have, in this article, analyzed the effect of including it in the model formulation. We formulate four models, two of which are maximizing the expected return with risk constraint, including and excluding limited liability, and other two of which are minimizing of risk with threshold level of return with and without limited liability. Our theoretical results show that the solutions of the models with limited liability produce better results than the others, in both minimizing risk and maximizing expected return. More specifically, the portfolios that included limited liability are less risky as compared to the portfolios that did not include limited liability. Finally, an illustrative example is presented to support the theoretical results obtained.
Market Intraday Momentum with New Measures for Trading Cost: Evidence from KOSPI Index
Authors: Lai Chien-Yuan , Lin Zhen-Yu , Eom Cheoljun , Tsai Ping-Chen
Published: November 2022

Evidence on Market Intraday Momentum (MIM) has been documented in the United states and in some, but not all, major economies. The main results on MIM are broadly robust against transaction costs, which are measured by either quoted spread or effective spread. By using two new spread measures obtained from high and low prices, we show that these measures of transaction cost tend to become smaller toward the end of a trading day, thus establishing MIM in more than 10 years of the 30 min KOSPI index. We also report the solid profitability of such MIM-based trading strategies.
Open-Source Internet of Things Gateways for Building Automation Applications
Authors: Schraven Markus Hans , Droste Kai , Guarnieri Calò Carducci Carlo Guarnieri Calò , Müller Dirk , Monti Antonello
Published: November 2022

Due to its potential benefits in data transparency, maintenance, and optimization of operation, the Internet of Things (IoT) has recently emerged in the building automation system (BAS) domain. However, while various IoT devices have been developed, the integration into BAS remains a challenging task due to the variety of conventional interfaces used in existing BAS. From an objective point of view, integrating IoT connectivity on existing devices’ printed circuit boards (PCBs) would be the most efficient option in terms of cost and resources, but requires adaptation of product lines, and vendors would often couple this with their own services and without an option for customization. By contrast, the majority of research activities focus on developing alternative or additional measurement systems, rather than connecting with legacy system components. Furthermore, most research applications cover very simple and individual use-cases with a do-it-yourself character and limited applicability in industrial applications. In this study, we present a scalable, industrial-like embedded solution to connect to common interfaces in BAS applications and share all the hardware and software design as an open-source platform for public use, customization, and further enhancement. Moreover, a thorough measurement performance analysis was conducted, suggesting an acceptable trade-off among accuracy, flexibility, and costs, e.g., achieving a performance increase by over 75% and a cost reduction by roughly 34% compared to a previous design.