bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Volatile Components in Different Parts of Three Species of the Genus Amomum via Combined HS–SPME–GC–TOF–MS and Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Gu Jingjing , Yang Meiquan , Qi Mingju , Yang Tianmei , Wang Li , Yang Weize , Zhang Jinyu
Published: June 2024

The study used headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HS–SPME–GC–TOF–MS) to analyze volatile compounds in leaves and fruits of Amomum tsaoko, Amomum paratsaoko, and Amomum koenigii. The composition and aroma of distinct metabolites were analyzed using multivariate statistical methods. A total of 564 volatile compounds were identified from three species of the genus Amomum, which were further divided into nine categories: terpenoids, carboxylic acids, alcohols, hydrocarbons, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, ethers, and other compounds. Terpenoids and alcohols were the most abundant. The content and types of compounds vary in A. tsaoko, A. paratsaoko, and A. koenigii, so mixing or substituting them is not advisable. We selected 45 metabolites based on the criteria of the variable importance in projection values (VIP > 1.5) and one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05). The top 19 metabolites with the most significant VIP values were chosen. Interestingly, (Z)-2-decenal was only found in Amomum koenigii, while nitroethane and nonanal were only present in cultivated A. tsaoko. Additionally, linalool, cineole, and (D)-limonene were the main components affecting the aroma of three species of the genus Amomum. The volatile components identified in this study provide a theoretical basis for analyzing the unique flavor of A. tsaoko, A. paratsaoko, and A. koenigii.
Investigating the Impact of Pineapple–Whey Protein Fermentation Products on Cefixime-Induced Intestinal Flora Dysbiosis in Mice Using 16S Sequencing and Untargeted Metabolomics Techniques
Authors: Luo Jiawei , Xiao Shan , Ma Da , Xiang Junhan , Wang Bo , Cai Yanxue , Wang Jihui
Published: June 2024

In our previous study, a new fermented food (PWF) created by utilizing pineapple by-products and whey proteins as a matrix via co-fermentation with lactic acid bacteria and yeast was developed, and, in the current study, we examined the impact of a pineapple–whey protein fermentation product on a cefixime-induced dysbiosis model in mice using 16S sequencing and untargeted metabolomics techniques. The results indicated that the pineapple–whey protein fermentation product played a positive role in restoring the intestinal flora. In this study, cefixime reduced the overall abundance of intestinal flora and decreased the relative abundance of probiotics in the gut, while also inhibiting amino acid metabolism. The addition of PWF normalized the intestinal flora to a steady state, significantly increasing the populations of Weissella, Lactococcus, Faecalibaculum, and Bacteroides acidophilus, while decreasing the numbers of Akkermansia and Escherichia-Shigella. Additionally, PWF modulated microbial metabolites, such as L-glutamate and L-threonine, and upregulated amino-acid-related metabolic pathways, including those involving glycine, serine, and threonine. In conclusion, PWF can alleviate intestinal flora dysbiosis and metabolic disturbances induced by antibiotic interventions. It is suggested that PWF could be a potential dietary strategy for patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Changes in Polyphenols and Antioxidant Activity in Fermentation Substrate during Maotai-Flavored Liquor Processing
Authors: Ni Derang , Chen Chao , Yang Yubo , Tian Jinhu , Tu Huabin , Yang Fan , Ye Xingqian
Published: June 2024

To investigate the changes in phenols and antioxidant capacity in fermented grains during different stages of the fermentation process (Xiasha, Zaosha, and single-round stages) of Maotai-flavored liquor, the total phenolic contents of 61 samples, collected in different stages, were analyzed via the Folin–Ciocalteu method, and the phenolic compounds were then identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Subsequently, the antioxidant activities were determined using the DPPH free radical scavenging rate and ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacities. The correlations among the total phenolic contents, individual phenolics, and three antioxidant activities of the samples were analyzed. The results show that the total phenolic contents of the fermented samples did not change significantly in the Xiasha and Zaosha stages but showed an upward trend in the single-round stage. A total of 12 phenol acids were identified in the fermented grains, including 5 phenolic acids (e.g., ferulic acid and caffeic acid), 4 flavonoids (e.g., luteolin and apigenin), and 3 proanthocyanidins (e.g., apigeninidin), for which the DPPH free radical scavenging rates and ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacities of all of the fermented grain samples ranged from 78.91 ± 4.09 to 98.57 ± 1.52%, 3.23 ± 0.72 to 13.69 ± 1.40 mM Trolox, and 5.06 ± 0.36 to 14.10 ± 0.69 mM FeSO4, respectively. The total phenolic contents of the fermented grain samples were significantly and positively correlated with the ABTS and FRAP (p ≤ 0.05), while no significant correlations were found between total phenolic content and DPPH. In general, the total phenolic content, phenolic substances, and antioxidant capacity of the fermented grains exhibited changes during the fermentation process in liquor production, and the phenolic components contributed more to the antioxidant properties of the fermented grains. The present study provides a theoretical reference for analyzing the dynamic changes and antioxidant properties of functional phenolic components in fermented grains.
Assessing Mineral Content and Heavy Metal Exposure in Abruzzo Honey and Bee Pollen from Different Anthropic Areas
Authors: Flamminii Federica , Consalvo Ada , Cichelli Angelo , Chiaudani Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Honey and bee pollen offer potential health benefits due to their nutrient and bioactive molecules, but they may also harbor contaminants such as heavy metals. This study aimed to assess the content of different metals, including Mg, Al, K, Ca, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, Cu, As, Rb, Sr, Cd, Cs, Tl, Pb and U, in honey and bee pollen collected from different Abruzzo region (Italy) areas (A1, A2, A3, A4), characterized by different anthropic influences described by Corine Land Cover maps. Differences were observed in the mineral and heavy metal content associated with the influence of biotic and abiotic factors. Honeys were found to be safe in regard to non-carcinogenic risk in all the consumer categories (THQm < 1). A particular carcinogenic risk concern was identified for toddlers associated with Cr (LCTR > 1 × 10−4) in A1, A2 and A3 apiaries. Pb and Ni represent potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks in children and adults due to bee pollen consumption, showing high values of THQm and LCTR. The results suggest the advantages of utilizing bee products to screen mineral and heavy metal content, providing valuable insights into environmental quality and potential health risks.
Effectiveness of Flavonoid-Rich Diet in Alleviating Symptoms of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Szulc Aneta , Wiśniewska Karolina , Żabińska Magdalena , Gaffke Lidia , Szota Maria , Olendzka Zuzanna , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Pierzynowska Karolina
Published: June 2024

Over the past decades, there has been a significant increase in the burden of neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, on a global scale. This is linked to a widespread demographic trend in which developed societies are aging, leading to an increased proportion of elderly individuals and, concurrently, an increase in the number of those afflicted, posing one of the main public health challenges for the coming decades. The complex pathomechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and resulting varied symptoms, which differ depending on the disease, environment, and lifestyle of the patients, make searching for therapies for this group of disorders a formidable challenge. Currently, most neurodegenerative diseases are considered incurable. An important aspect in the fight against and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases may be broadly understood lifestyle choices, and more specifically, what we will focus on in this review, a diet. One proposal that may help in the fight against the spread of neurodegenerative diseases is a diet rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids are compounds widely found in products considered healthy, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Many studies indicated not only the neuroprotective effects of these compounds but also their ability to reverse changes occurring during the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we present the main groups of flavonoids, discussing their characteristics and mechanisms of action. The most widely described mechanisms point to neuroprotective functions due to strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, accompanied with their ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, as well as the ability to inhibit the formation of protein aggregates. The latter feature, together with promoting removal of the aggregates is especially important in neurodegenerative diseases. We discuss a therapeutic potential of selected flavonoids in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases, based on in vitro studies, and their impact when included in the diet of animals (laboratory research) and humans (population studies). Thus, this review summarizes flavonoids’ actions and impacts on neurodegenerative diseases. Therapeutic use of these compounds in the future is potentially possible but depends on overcoming key challenges such as low bioavailability, determining the therapeutic dose, and defining what a flavonoid-rich diet is and determining its potential negative effects. This review also suggests further research directions to address these challenges.
Study on the Effect of Sorghum Flour Particle Size on the Storage Quality of Leavened Pancakes
Authors: Li Xueqin , Tian Jingru , Xu Fei , Lv Yingguo
Published: June 2024

Pancakes prepared with sorghum flour possess a high nutritional value, yet their quality is unstable and prone to degradation during storage. This instability can be attributed to the particle size of coarse cereal powder, which significantly influences the quality of flour products during storage. In this study, changes in the quality of these pancakes, prepared with varying particle sizes of sorghum flour, were meticulously analyzed during cold storage using advanced instruments such as a texture analyzer, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray diffractometer, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. Findings revealed that the hardness of leavened pancakes significantly increased over time. After a refrigeration period of 7 days, the hardness of wheat flour leavened pancakes increased by 56.60%. However, with a decrease in the particle size of sorghum flour, the increase in hardness diminished, thereby delaying the aging process of the pancakes. As the storage duration was extended, moisture migration within the pancakes occurred, and the sorghum flour pancakes with a smaller particle size exhibited a reduced moisture change rate, indicating an enhanced water holding capacity. In comparison to their wheat flour counterparts, sorghum flour leavened pancakes exhibited a substantial reduction in retrogradation enthalpy and crystallinity. The inclusion of sorghum flour effectively inhibited amylopectin recrystallization, thus slowing down the aging process of the pancakes. This inhibitory effect was more evident with decreasing sorghum flour particle sizes. Fourier transform infrared data indicated no significant alterations in absorption peaks across various wavelengths during cold storage. Although starch short-range orderliness increased with storage time, the use of sorghum flour with smaller particles reduced the degree of short–range orderliness in starch molecules throughout the cold storage period. Sorghum flour with a smaller particle size can inhibit water migration and amylopectin recrystallization, which subsequently delays pancake aging and enhances its quality stability during storage.
Effect of Milk Protein–Polyphenol Conjugate on the Regulation of GLP-1 Hormone
Authors: Wazzan Huda Abdulrahim , Abraham Amanda N. , Saiara Noshin , Anand Sushil , Gill Harsharn , Shukla Ravi
Published: June 2024

Modern functional foods are designed to provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They are enriched with bioactive ingredients like probiotics, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These foods support overall health, enhance immune function, and help prevent chronic diseases. Milk proteins and tea are known to influence satiety and regulate body weight. Studies have shown that green tea polyphenols, namely, (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and whey proteins, predominantly lactoferrin (LF) from milk, play a role in regulating satiety. This study aims to investigate the effect of conjugating EGCG with apo-lactoferrin (Apo-LF) and assessing these effects on satiety through monitoring glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) regulation in a human colon (NCI-H716) cell line. Apo-LF-EGCG conjugates were synthesized and characterized in terms of structural and functional properties. The effect on GLP-1 regulation was assessed by real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to monitor gene and protein expressions, respectively. The results revealed that the protein–polyphenol interaction occurs through the complex formation of hydrogen bonds at the O-H and carbonyl groups of EGCG. The conjugates also showed a significant up-regulation of gene and protein expression levels of GLP-1 while also preventing EGCG from degradation, thereby preserving its antioxidant properties. The Apo-LF-EGCG conjugates increase satiety via increasing GLP-1 secretion in human colon cells while simultaneously retaining the antioxidant properties of EGCG. Therefore, these conjugates show potential for use as dietary supplements to enhance satiety.
The Application of Multi-Parameter Multi-Modal Technology Integrating Biological Sensors and Artificial Intelligence in the Rapid Detection of Food Contaminants
Authors: Zhang Longlong , Yang Qiuping , Zhu Zhiyuan
Published: June 2024

Against the backdrop of continuous socio-economic development, there is a growing concern among people about food quality and safety. Individuals are increasingly realizing the critical importance of healthy eating for bodily health; hence the continuous rise in demand for detecting food pollution. Simultaneously, the rapid expansion of global food trade has made people’s pursuit of high-quality food more urgent. However, traditional methods of food analysis have certain limitations, mainly manifested in the high degree of reliance on personal subjective judgment for assessing food quality. In this context, the emergence of artificial intelligence and biosensors has provided new possibilities for the evaluation of food quality. This paper proposes a comprehensive approach that involves aggregating data relevant to food quality indices and developing corresponding evaluation models to highlight the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of artificial intelligence and biosensors in food quality evaluation. The potential prospects and challenges of this method in the field of food safety are comprehensively discussed, aiming to provide valuable references for future research and practice.
Winemaking: Advanced Technology and Flavor Research
Authors: Cosme Fernanda , Nunes Fernando M. , Filipe-Ribeiro Luís
Published: June 2024

Beginning in ancient times, human societies around the world continue to produce fermented beverages from locally available sugar sources [...]
Major and Trace Elements of Baobab Leaves in Different Habitats and Regions in Sudan: Implication for Human Dietary Needs and Overall Health
Authors: Ahmed Abdelhakam Esmaeil Mohamed , Mozzon Massimo , Omer Ali , Shaikh Ayaz Mukarram , Kovács Béla
Published: June 2024

The metabolic needs of the human body and preventing infections require a diet with sufficient amounts of essential nutrients. This study aimed to investigate the importance of Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) dried leaves as a healthy food source by determining the content of macro and trace elements in different habitats and regions. This study was conducted in Sudan and covered three different habitats, wetland (W), plainland (P), and mountain (M), in two regions (Blue Nile and Kordofan). The dry matter (DM) of Baobab leaves was considered for analyzed menials, and the results showed that the mean values were significantly affected by habitats where Baobab trees grew. The highest contents of potassium K (1653 ± 34 mg/100 g) and sodium (Na) 7.67 ± 1.18 mg/100 g were found in the W zone, whereas the highest contents of calcium (Ca) 2903 ± 187 mg/100 g and magnesium (Mg) 529 ± 101 mg/100 g were detected in the M and P zones, respectively. In addition, the two regions showed significant differences in trace and macro elements, i.e., higher levels of iron (Fe) 17.17 ± 2.76 mg/100 g and magnesium (556 ± 55 mg/100 g) were found in the Kordofan region while higher levels of zinc (Zn) 2.548 ± 0.55 mg/100 g and calcium (2689 ± 305 mg/100) were in the Blue Nile region. These varying amounts of elements can be used in our daily diets because of their potentially healthy effects, especially in areas where access to nutrient-rich foods is limited.
Eco-Friendly Postharvest Technologies to Preserve or Enhance the Quality and Safety of Fruit and Vegetable Products
Authors: Artés-Hernández Francisco , Martínez-Zamora Lorena , Cano-Lamadrid Marina
Published: June 2024

Fruits and vegetables make up a significant section of the food supply chain and are essential for optimum health and nutrition worldwide [...]
Lubricating Polymer Gels/Coatings: Syntheses and Measurement Strategies
Authors: Zhao Panpan , Klein Jacob
Published: June 2024

Straightforward design and long-term functionality for tribological considerations has prompted an extensive substitution of polymers for metals across various applications, from industrial machinery to medical devices. Lubrication of and by polymer gels/coatings, essential for ensuring the cost-effective operation and reliability of applications, has gained strong momentum by benefiting from the structural characteristics of natural lubrication systems (such as articular cartilage). The optimal synthetic strategy for lubricating polymer gels/coatings would be a holistic approach, wherein the lubrication mechanism in relation to the structural properties offers a pathway to design tailor-made materials. This review considers recent synthesis strategies for creating lubricating polymer gels/coatings from the molecular level (including polymer brushes, loops, microgels, and hydrogels), and assessing their frictional properties, as well as considering the underlying mechanism of their lubrication.
The Diels-Alder Cross-Linked Gelatin/Dextran Nanocomposite Hydrogels with Silver Nanoparticles for Wound Healing Applications: Synthesis, Characterization, and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Gholamali Iman , Jo Sung-Han , Han Won , Lim Juhee , Rizwan Ali , Park Sang-Hyug , Lim Kwon Taek
Published: June 2024

Wound healing involves a sophisticated biological process that relies on ideal conditions to advance through various stages of repair. Modern wound dressings are designed to imitate the natural surroundings around cells and offer properties such as moisture regulation, strength, and antimicrobial defense to boost healing. A recent research project unveiled a new type of gelatin (Gel)/dextran (Dex) hydrogels, linked through Diels-Alder (D-A) reactions, loaded with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) for cutting-edge wound treatment. Gel and Dex were chemically modified to form the hydrogels via the D-A reaction. The hydrogels were enriched with Ag-NPs at varying levels. Thorough analyses of the hydrogels using methods like NMR, FT-IR, and SEM were carried out to assess their structure and nanoparticle integration. Rheological tests displayed that the hydrogels had favorable mechanical attributes, particularly when Ag-NPs were included. The hydrogels demonstrated controlled swelling, responsiveness to pH changes, and were non-toxic. Testing against E. coli showcased the strong antibacterial activity of the nanocomposite hydrogels in a concentration-dependent manner. This investigation showcased the promise of these bioactive nanocomposite hydrogels in promoting speedy wound healing by maintaining a moist environment, offering an antimicrobial shield, and ensuring mechanical support at the wound site.
Development of a Self-Healing Gel with Self-Healing Kinetics That Can Be Controlled by Heat
Authors: Saito Rikuto , Tamesue Shingo
Published: June 2024

A self-healing gel with self-healing kinetics that can be regulated by heat is developed. The gel is composed of a polymer having benzophenone (BP) substituents, which are cross-linked with a main alkyl chain via ester bonds, titanium chloride, and zinc. This gel material shows a self-healing property at room temperature. Also, its self-healing behavior can be accelerated by heating the gel. This gel having self-healing kinetics that can be regulated by heat is favorable for practical use. When we want to use a self-healing property as a stop-gap measure, a rapid self-healing property is demanded. On the other hand, when we want materials repaired beautifully or decomposed surfaces need to be attached beautifully, a slow self-healing property is favorable. These opposite demands can be answered by the gel with self-healing kinetics that can be regulated by heat.
Influence of Intraoperative Fluid Management on Postoperative Outcome and Mortality of Cytoreductive Surgery for Advanced Ovarian Cancer—A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Neumann Claudia , Kranenberg Eva , Schenk Alina , Kiefer Nicholas , Hilbert Tobias , Klaschik Sven , Keyver-Paik Mignon Denise , Soehle Martin
Published: June 2024

Background: The surgical treatment of advanced ovarian cancer is associated with extensive tissue trauma, prolonged operating times and a considerable volume shift. It, therefore, represents a challenge for anaesthesiological management. Aim: The aim of this single-centre, retrospective, observational study was to investigate whether intraoperative extensive volume supply influences postoperative outcomes and long-term survival. Methods: The study included 73 patients with a mean (SD) age of 63 (13) years who underwent extensive tumour-reducing surgery for ovarian cancer between 2012 and 2015. The effect of the intraoperative fluid balance on postoperative complications, such as anastomotic insufficiency or pleural effusions, was investigated using logistic regression. Further, the influence of fluid balance, lactate and creatinine levels on 5-year survival was analysed in a Cox regression model. Associations between anaesthesia time and the intraoperative fluid balance were examined using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients. Results: The mean (SD) postoperative fluid balance in the considered patient cohort was 9.1 (3.4) litres (l) at a mean (SD) anaesthesia time of 529 (106) minutes. Cox regression did not reveal a statistically significant effect of the fluid balance, but it did reveal a statistically significant association between the lactate level 24 h following surgery and the 5-year survival (HR [95%-CI] fluid balance: 0.97 [0.85, 1.11]; HR [95%-CI] lactate: 1.79 [1.24, 2.58]). According to logistic regression, the intraoperative fluid balance was associated with an increased chance of postoperative complications in the considered patient cohort (OR [95%-CI] 1.28 [1.1, 1.54]). Conclusions: We could not detect a negative impact of an increased fluid balance on 5-year survival, but a negative impact on postoperative complications was found in our patient cohort.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of an Attitude about Euthanasia Scale in Portuguese Older Adults with Mixed Anxiety–Depressive Disorder
Authors: Fonseca Luís , Castro Luísa , Gonçalves Andreia , Monteleone Francesco , Rêgo Guilhermina , Nunes Rui
Published: June 2024

On 25 May 2023, the Portuguese parliament approved the decriminalisation of euthanasia for incurable illnesses. As the experiences of other countries show us, it will be a matter of time before mental disorders are addressed. Studying the phenomenon, particularly in vulnerable groups, in advance is essential for proper law drafting. Therefore, instruments that allow an objective assessment and comparison between groups must be available. This study aims to explore the validation of Faria’s attitude about euthanasia scale in Portuguese older adults with mixed anxiety–depressive disorder. A sample of 114 older adults with mixed anxiety–depressive disorder collected by convenience in the Psychiatry Department of Senhora da Oliveira Hospital in Portugal was included. The pre-final version of the scale was tested in a small group with good results. The validity of the internal structure was analysed using exploratory factorial analysis. The internal consistency study verified reliability. For construct validity, we assessed the correlation with other validated scales measuring attitudes toward euthanasia, cognitive performance, personality and empathy. The attitude about euthanasia scale showed good internal consistency. One factor was retained in the principal component analysis. Significant correlations verified construct validity. The results support the scale’s usefulness and validity. This study makes available a unique instrument to assess the overall tendency of the attitudes towards euthanasia from the European-Portuguese perspective, which can be used, for example, to compare Portuguese with Brazilian older adults suffering from the same disorder. Furthermore, the adapted scale paves the way for other cross-cultural translations, adaptations, validations, and comparative analyses.
Examining Age-Adjusted Associations between BMI and Comorbidities in Mongolia: Cross-Sectional Prevalence
Authors: Enkhtugs Khangai , Byambasukh Oyuntugs , Boldbaatar Damdindorj , Tsedev-Ochir Tumur-Ochir , Enebish Oyunsuren , Sereejav Enkhbold , Dangaa Bayarbold , Bayartsogt Batzorig , Yadamsuren Enkhtur , Nyamdavaa Khurelbaatar
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: This study investigated the association between body mass index (BMI) categories and comorbidities in the context of a developing country, utilizing data from a nationwide health screening in Mongolia. (2) Methods: The study included 181,080 individuals (mean age 47.0 ± 15.3, 42.0% male) from the population-based general health screening. We counted the number of diseases from participants’ medical records based on ICD-10 codes, excluding those categorized under Z00-Z99 and codes indicating acute disorders, as well as individuals classified as underweight. (3) Results: Among study participants, the prevalence of two or more comorbidities was 4.2%. The weight distribution comprised 40.4% normal weight; 37.1% overweight; and 16.9%, 4.4%, and 1.2% in the Class I, II, and III obesity categories, respectively. Comorbidities increased with BMI: normal weight (0.222); overweight (0.255); and Class I (0.290), Class II (0.302), and Class III obesity (0.303), suggesting a dose-dependent likelihood of having multiple diseases. Adjusted linear regression (beta coefficients, 95% CIs) showed increased comorbidity risks in overweight (0.017, 0.013–0.021) and obesity (0.034, 0.030–0.039). Interaction analysis with age revealed a significant effect (p < 0.001). While comorbidities tend to increase with higher BMI categories in all age-tertile groups, this association was notably stronger among younger individuals. (4) Conclusions: Obesity is associated with a twofold increase in the prevalence of multiple comorbidities compared to normal weight. Our findings also highlight the critical role of age in the development of multiple diseases, with BMI remaining a significant factor across various age groups, encompassing both younger and older adults.
Comparison of the Short-Term Effect between Iontophoresis and Radial Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pabón-Carrasco Manuel , Coheña-Jiménez Manuel , Pérez-Belloso Ana Juana , Algaba-del-Castillo José , Cáceres-Matos Rocío , Castro-Méndez Aurora
Published: June 2024

Conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis have different levels of effectiveness, so it is necessary to personalize the therapeutic modality that improves the patients’ symptoms. Methods: A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate the short-term efficacy of a physical treatment in chronic plantar fasciitis, namely iontophoresis, compared with radial shockwave therapy. Heel pain, health status using the EuroQol-5D questionnaire, and fascia thickness measured with ultrasound were evaluated. In total, 127 patients were randomly selected for group A and treated with iontophoresis therapy (lidocaine 0.4% and dexamethasone 0.5%), or for group B, in which they were treated with radial shockwave therapy (EWST). Measurements were taken at baseline and at follow-up during the 5 weeks of the study. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed to the shockwave therapy group in respect to the final fascia thickness, and the VAS scale (p = 0.001). The differences between groups A and B showed that the shockwave group follow-up after 3 weeks experienced complete pain remission (1.0 ± 0.9; 95%CI 0.8–1.2) and after the 6-week follow-up, complete pain remission of plantar fasciitis was observed for both therapies. Patients had a better perception of the use of EWST at the end of the treatment, although in both groups it was satisfactory (p = 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this study showed a shorter-term effectiveness of shockwave treatment compared with the use of iontophoresis. However, both techniques were effective in satisfactorily reducing pain in this short period.
Evaluation of the Level of Psychological Distress in Construction Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Southern Spain
Authors: Gómez-Salgado Carlos , Camacho-Vega Juan Carlos , Allande-Cussó Regina , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos , Ortega-Moreno Mónica , Martín-Pereira Jorge , Macías-Toronjo Israel , Prieto-Callejero Blanca , García-Iglesias Juan Jesús , Fagundo-Rivera Javier , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic posed a major challenge for construction companies, which were confronted with the need to prevent the enormous negative socio-psychological impact of the pandemic on their employees. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of psychological distress among construction workers in an advanced phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Andalusia, southern Spain. For this, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using online questionnaires with data on sociodemographic variables and employment situation, COVID-19 pandemic-related data, and Goldberg’s General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). A total of 860 questionnaires from all provinces of Andalusia, Spain, were collected between March and May 2022. Descriptive statistical analyses and non-parametric Mann–Whitney U and Chi-squared tests were performed, followed by logistic regression analysis. The incidence of psychological distress was higher among women, individuals under 43 years of age, those with a family income below EUR 1200, participants whose working conditions had been affected by the pandemic, those who had not received adequate means or specific training to protect themselves from infection, those who had experienced symptoms, those who had suffered side effects after vaccination, and those who had been hospitalised. The logistic regression analysis predicted the occurrence of psychological distress in this study by the effect of the pandemic on mental/emotional well-being, the working conditions affected during the pandemic, health-related variables, and the age of the worker. The correctly classified percentage was 75.1%. Assessing psychological distress in construction sectors may allow for the identification of vulnerable groups or even help to reduce the number of errors in daily practice and potential risks of occupational injury or illness.
Routine Physical Therapy with and without Neural Mobilization in Chronic Musculoskeletal Neck Disorders with Nerve-Related Symptoms: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: López-Pardo María José , Calvache-Mateo Andrés , Martín-Núñez Javier , Heredia-Ciuró Alejandro , López-López Laura , Valenza Marie Carmen , Cabrera-Martos Irene
Published: June 2024

No previous study has evaluated the effectiveness of routine physical therapy with and without neural mobilization for patients with chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of routine physical therapy with and without neural mobilization on pain and mobility in patients with chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials involving the use of neural mobilization techniques for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy was conducted. Methodological quality was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and PEDro scale. Data were pooled and a meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model with Review Manager 5 software. Seven articles were included in our review. Significant differences were found in mobility but not in pain in favor of using routine physical therapy with neural mobilization for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. Our results show that routine physical therapy accompanied by neural mobilization is superior for improving mobility in comparison with routine physical therapy alone in patients with musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy.
Shape Pattern Recognition of Building Footprints Using t-SNE Dimensionality Reduction Visualization
Authors: Li Jingzhong , Mao Kainan
Published: June 2024

The shape pattern recognition of building footprints stands as a pivotal concern within GIS spatial cognition. In this study, we introduce a novel approach for the shape recognition of building footprints, leveraging t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) dimensionality reduction visualization. First, the Canonical Time Warping (CTW) algorithm is employed to gauge the shape similarity distance of building footprints. Subsequently, the t-SNE model is utilized to map the building footprints, featuring varying numbers of coordinate vertices, onto points within the Cartesian coordinate system. The shape similarity distance serves as the input to the t-SNE model for parameter optimization. Lastly, building footprint shapes are identified through the inherent clustering patterns of points using a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM). Experimental results demonstrate the method’s robustness to the translation, rotation, scaling, and mirroring of geometric objects, while effectively measuring shape similarity between building footprints. Furthermore, diverse types of building footprints are discernible through natural clustering in low-dimensional spaces, aligning closely with human visual perception.
Identifying the Spatial Range of the Pearl River Delta Urban Agglomeration by Fusing Nighttime Light Data with Weibo Sign-In Data
Authors: Cao Yongwang , Liu Song , Yang Zaigao
Published: June 2024

Accurately identifying the spatial range of urban agglomerations holds significant practical importance for the precise allocation of various elements and coordinated development within urban agglomerations. However, current research predominantly focuses on the physical spaces of urban agglomerations, overlooking their sphere of influence. This study begins with the spatial interactions of population elements within urban agglomerations and fuses Weibo sign-in data with NTL data to identify the spatial range of urban agglomerations. It further compares and validates the results before and after the fusion of data. The results reveal that the accuracy of identifying the spatial range of urban agglomerations with the fusion of NTL data and Weibo sign-in data has improved by 7%, with a Kappa increase of 0.1766 compared to using NTL data alone, which indicates that fusing social media data can significantly enhance the accuracy of identifying the spatial range of urban agglomerations. This study proposes a novel approach for identifying the spatial range of urban agglomerations through the fusion of NTL data and social media data from a data fusion perspective. On one hand, it supplements the application of data fusion in the study of urban agglomeration spaces; on the other hand, it accurately identifies the spatial range of urban agglomerations, which holds great practical value for the sustainable development of urban agglomerations.
Spatial and Temporal Changes and Influencing Factors of Capital Cities in Five Provinces of the Underdeveloped Regions of Northwest China
Authors: Feng Yuanbao , Ma Yujun , Jia Wei , Shu Sifa , Li Hongda , Hu Xiangyu
Published: June 2024

In recent years, China’s economy has experienced rapid development, and its cities have undergone rapid expansion; however, the development of cities in the northwest region has been relatively slow due to various geographical and economic constraints. Studying the urban expansion in these regions is of significant importance for regional planning and development. This study selected the provincial capitals of five underdeveloped provinces in northwestern China as the research sample and used Landsat TM/OLI remote-sensing imagery as the primary data, supplemented by Digital Elevation Model (DEM), meteorological, and socio-economic data, the study extracted urban impervious surfaces using the ENDISI and MNDWI indices. It analyzed the spatial and temporal characteristics of urban impervious surfaces from 1990 to 2020 using indicators such as urban expansion intensity, compactness and fractal dimension, centroid migration, and standard deviation ellipse. Furthermore, the study quantified the influencing factors using Geodetectors. The findings reveal the following: (1) From 1990 to 2020, impervious surfaces in the five cities continued to expand, with Xi’an experiencing the largest expansion area at 549.94 km2 and Xining the smallest at only 132.83 km2, with an expansion intensity of merely 2.99%. However, significant disparities existed in expansion intensity and area across different periods. (2) Overall, the compactness of the cities decreased by 47.6% while the overall fractal dimension increased by 2.85%, indicating a trend towards more dispersed and complex urban forms. (3) Expansion directions varied among the cities, with Xi’an and Urumqi expanding towards the northwest, Lanzhou towards the north, Yinchuan primarily towards the east, and Xining mainly towards the west. (4) Economic, demographic, and investment factors were identified as the primary influencers of urban expansion, exhibiting changes over different periods. Analyzing the similarities and differences in city development can offer valuable insights into urban construction and sustainable development in underdeveloped areas.
Modeling COVID-19 Transmission in Closed Indoor Settings: An Agent-Based Approach with Comprehensive Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Ebrahimi Amir Hossein , Alesheikh Ali Asghar , Hooshangi Navid , Sharif Mohammad , Mollalo Abolfazl
Published: June 2024

Computational simulation models have been widely used to study the dynamics of COVID-19. Among those, bottom-up approaches such as agent-based models (ABMs) can account for population heterogeneity. While many studies have addressed COVID-19 spread at various scales, insufficient studies have investigated the spread of COVID-19 within closed indoor settings. This study aims to develop an ABM to simulate the spread of COVID-19 in a closed indoor setting using three transmission sub-models. Moreover, a comprehensive sensitivity analysis encompassing 4374 scenarios is performed. The model is calibrated using data from Calabria, Italy. The results indicated a decent consistency between the observed and predicted number of infected people (MAPE = 27.94%, RMSE = 0.87 and χ2(1,N=34)=(44.11,p=0.11)). Notably, the transmission distance was identified as the most influential parameter in this model. In nearly all scenarios, this parameter had a significant impact on the outbreak dynamics (total cases and epidemic peak). Also, the calibration process showed that the movement of agents and the number of initial asymptomatic agents are vital model parameters to simulate COVID-19 spread accurately. The developed model may provide useful insights to investigate different scenarios and dynamics of other similar infectious diseases in closed indoor settings.
Theoretical Studies on the Insertion Reaction of Polar Olefinic Monomers Mediated by a Scandium Complex
Authors: Wen Xin , Ren Kaipai , Zhang Wenzhen , Zhou Guangli , Luo Yi
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the insertion reaction of the polar monomers mediated by the cationic rare earth metal complex [(C5H5)Sc(NMe2CH2C6H4-o)]+ utilizing a combination of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and multivariate linear regression (MLR) methods. The chain initiation step of the insertion reaction could be described by the poisoning effect and the ease of monomer insertion, which could be represented via the DFT-calculated energy difference between σ- and π-coordination complexes (ΔΔE) and insertion energy barrier (ΔG≠), respectively. The results indicate that ΔΔE and ΔG≠ can be predicted by only several descriptors using multiple linear regression methods, with a root mean squared error (RMSE) of less than 2.5 kcal/mol. Furthermore, the qualitative analysis of the MLR models provided effective information on the key factors governing the insertion reaction chain initiation.
Direct Synthesis of C-Substituted [RC(O)CH2-CB11H11]− Carborate Anions
Authors: Barra Vanessa C. , Bernhardt Eduard , Fellinger Sarah , Jenne Carsten , Langenbach Shiomi S.
Published: June 2024

A new synthetic method for the synthesis of C-substituted [RC(O)CH2-CB11H11]− carborate anions has been developed. The reaction of [closo-B11H11]2− with terminal alkynes in the presence of a copper catalyst leads to insertion into the boron cluster, and C-substituted [RC(O)CH2-CB11H11]− carborate anions are formed. These reactions are strongly dependent on the reaction conditions, the solvents, and the alkynes used. The alkynes HCCCO2Et, HCCCO2Me, and HCCCONH2 lead to the formation of [NH2C(O)CH2-CB11H11]− as the final product in aqueous ammonia solution. In contrast, the reaction using the alkyne HCCCOMe yields [MeC(O)CH2-CB11H11]−. The products have been fully characterized by multinuclear NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry. The crystal structures of K[NH2C(O)CH2-CB11H11] and [NEt3CH2Cl][NH2C(O)CH2-CB11H11] have been determined.
Treatment of Aggressive Behavior and Agitation in an 11-Year-Old Boy with Co-Occurring Autism and ADHD: A Case Report and Literature Review on the Use of Intravenous Valproate in Emergency Psychiatry
Authors: Carta Alessandra , Cavassa Vanna , Puci Mariangela Valentina , Averna Roberto , Sotgiu Giovanni , Valeri Giovanni , Vicari Stefano , Sotgiu Stefano
Published: June 2024

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a persistent neurodevelopmental disorder frequently co-occurring with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and behavior-related disorders. While behavioral therapy is the first-line option to manage the core symptoms of ASD, pharmacological therapy is sometimes needed to treat acute problems, such as agitation and aggressive behaviors. Recent guidelines recommend the use of neuroleptics to reduce psychomotor agitation in patients with ASD. However, as children with ASD are often drug-resistant, alternative treatments are often justified. Reports from the literature have indicated that intravenous valproate (IV-VPA) can be effective in reducing agitation in psychiatric patients, with a lower frequency of adverse events compared to conventional treatments. However, as the related findings are occasionally inconsistent, IV-VPA is not yet an approved option in the context of clinical psychiatry. We aim to improve knowledge of the IV-VPA treatment option for emergency psychiatric treatment in pediatric patients. Methods: We report the case of an 11-year-old boy suffering from a complex neurodevelopmental condition who experienced a psychotic episode with severe aggressive and disruptive behaviors and was successfully treated with IV-VPA. Furthermore, we provide an updated literature review on this topic. Conclusion: In our case, first-line therapies proved to be ineffective. To the contrary, IV-VPA led to safe and prompt clinical success, which is in line with other reports. Based on our literature review, IV-VPA can be highly effective and reduces the risk of adverse events that frequently occur with the use of high-dose standard medications in emergency psychiatry.
Role of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and the Tumor Microenvironment in the Survival of Malignant Parotid Gland Tumors: A Two-Centre Retrospective Analysis of 107 Patients
Authors: De Luca Pietro , Di Stadio Arianna , Petruzzi Gerardo , Mazzola Francesco , Fior Milena , de Campora Luca , Simone Matteo , Viola Pasquale , Salzano Giovanni , Moscatelli Chiara , Ricciardiello Filippo , Scarpa Alfonso , Salzano Francesco Antonio , Pellini Raul , Radici Marco , Camaioni Angelo
Published: June 2024

Background: This study aims to retrospectively investigate the prognostic significance of the tumor microenvironment, with a focus on TILs (tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes), in relation to survival in a large cohort of patients with parotid gland cancer, and it uses the method proposed by the International TILs Working Group in breast cancer. Methods: We included a cohort of consecutive patients with biopsy-proven parotid cancer who underwent surgery between January 2010 and September 2023. A retrospective review of medical records, including surgical, pathological and follow-up reports, was performed. The density of TILs was determined according to the recommendations of the International TILs Working Group for breast cancer. Results: A weak negative correlation (p = 0.3) between TILs and time of survival and a weak positive correlation (p = 0.05) between TILs and months of survival (high TILs were correlated with longer survival in months) were identified. High TILs were weakly negatively, but not statistically significantly p (0.7), correlated with the grading of tumor; this means that high TILs were associated with low-grade tumors. Conclusions: Contrary to previous preliminary reports, this retrospective work found no statistically significant prognostic role of TILs in parotid gland malignancies. This case series represents the largest cohort ever reported in the literature and includes all malignant histological types. Future larger molecular studies may be useful in this regard.