bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biocompatible MgFeCO3 Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) for Bone Regeneration—Low-Temperature Processing through Cold Sintering and Freeze-Casting
Authors: Kim Hyoung-Jun , Lagarrigue Prescillia , Oh Jae-Min , Soulié Jérémy , Salles Fabrice , Cazalbou Sophie , Drouet Christophe
Published: June 2023

Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) are inorganic compounds of relevance to various domains, where their surface reactivity and/or intercalation capacities can be advantageously exploited for the retention/release of ionic and molecular species. In this study, we have explored specifically the applicability in the field of bone regeneration of one LDH composition, denoted “MgFeCO3”, of which components are already present in vivo, so as to convey a biocompatibility character. The propensity to be used as a bone substitute depends, however, on their ability to allow the fabrication of 3D constructs able to be implanted in bone sites. In this work, we display two appealing approaches for the processing of MgFeCO3 LDH particles to prepare (i) porous 3D scaffolds by freeze-casting, involving an alginate biopolymeric matrix, and (ii) pure MgFeCO3 LDH monoliths by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) at low temperature. We then explored the capacity of such LDH particles or monoliths to interact quantitatively with molecular moieties/drugs in view of their local release. The experimental data were complemented by computational chemistry calculations (Monte Carlo) to examine in more detail the mineral–organic interactions at play. Finally, preliminary in vitro tests on osteoblastic MG63 cells confirmed the high biocompatible character of this LDH composition. It was confirmed that (i) thermodynamically metastable LDH could be successfully consolidated into a monolith through SPS, (ii) the LDH particles could be incorporated into a polymer matrix through freeze casting, and (iii) the LDH in the consolidated monolith could incorporate and release drug molecules in a controlled manner. In other words, our results indicate that the MgFeCO3 LDH (pyroaurite structure) may be seen as a new promising compound for the setup of bone substitute biomaterials with tailorable drug delivery capacity, including for personalized medicine.
EnsemDeepCADx: Empowering Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis with Mixed-Dataset Features and Ensemble Fusion CNNs on Evidence-Based CKHK-22 Dataset
Authors: Raju Akella Subrahmanya Narasimha , Venkatesh Kaliyamurthy
Published: June 2023

Colorectal cancer is associated with a high mortality rate and significant patient risk. Images obtained during a colonoscopy are used to make a diagnosis, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. Using techniques of deep learning could enhance the diagnostic accuracy of existing systems. Using the most advanced deep learning techniques, a brand-new EnsemDeepCADx system for accurate colorectal cancer diagnosis has been developed. The optimal accuracy is achieved by combining Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with transfer learning via bidirectional long short-term memory (BILSTM) and support vector machines (SVM). Four pre-trained CNN models comprise the ADaDR-22, ADaR-22, and DaRD-22 ensemble CNNs: AlexNet, DarkNet-19, DenseNet-201, and ResNet-50. In each of its stages, the CADx system is thoroughly evaluated. From the CKHK-22 mixed dataset, colour, greyscale, and local binary pattern (LBP) image datasets and features are utilised. In the second stage, the returned features are compared to a new feature fusion dataset using three distinct CNN ensembles. Next, they incorporate ensemble CNNs with SVM-based transfer learning by comparing raw features to feature fusion datasets. In the final stage of transfer learning, BILSTM and SVM are combined with a CNN ensemble. The testing accuracy for the ensemble fusion CNN DarD-22 using BILSTM and SVM on the original, grey, LBP, and feature fusion datasets was optimal (95.96%, 88.79%, 73.54%, and 97.89%). Comparing the outputs of all four feature datasets with those of the three ensemble CNNs at each stage enables the EnsemDeepCADx system to attain its highest level of accuracy.
Rationally Improving Doramectin Production in Industrial Streptomyces avermitilis Strains
Authors: Dang Fujun , Xu Qingyu , Qin Zhongjun , Xia Haiyang
Published: June 2023

Avermectins (AVMs), a family of 16-membered macrocyclic macrolides produced by Streptomyces avermitilis, have been the most successful microbial natural antiparasitic agents in recent decades. Doramectin, an AVM derivative produced by S. avermitilis bkd− mutants through cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (CHC) feeding, was commercialized as a veterinary antiparasitic drug by Pfizer Inc. Our previous results show that the production of avermectin and actinorhodin was affected by several other polyketide biosynthetic gene clusters in S. avermitilis and Streptomyces coelicolor, respectively. Thus, here, we propose a rational strategy to improve doramectin production via the termination of competing polyketide biosynthetic pathways combined with the overexpression of CoA ligase, providing precursors for polyketide biosynthesis. fadD17, an annotated putative cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate:CoA ligase-encoding gene, was proven to be involved in the biosynthesis of doramectin. By sequentially removing three PKS (polyketide synthase) gene clusters and overexpressing FadD17 in the strain DM203, the resulting strain DM223 produced approximately 723 mg/L of doramectin in flasks, which was approximately 260% that of the original strain DM203 (approximately 280 mg/L). To summarize, our work demonstrates a novel viable approach to engineer doramectin overproducers, which might contribute to the reduction in the cost of this valuable compound in the future.
Methods for Inferring Cell Cycle Parameters Using Thymidine Analogues
Authors: Martí-Clúa Joaquín
Published: June 2023

Tritiated thymidine autoradiography, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) 5-chloro-2′-deoxyuridine (CldU), 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine (IdU), and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyiridine (EdU) labeling have been used for identifying the fraction of cells undergoing the S-phase of the cell cycle and to follow the fate of these cells during the embryonic, perinatal, and adult life in several species of vertebrate. In this current review, I will discuss the dosage and times of exposition to the aforementioned thymidine analogues to label most of the cells undergoing the S-phase of the cell cycle. I will also show how to infer, in an asynchronous cell population, the duration of the G1, S, and G2 phases, as well as the growth fraction and the span of the whole cell cycle on the base of some labeling schemes involving a single administration, continuous nucleotide analogue delivery, and double labeling with two thymidine analogues. In this context, the choice of the optimal dose of BrdU, CldU, IdU, and EdU to label S-phase cells is a pivotal aspect to produce neither cytotoxic effects nor alter cell cycle progression. I hope that the information presented in this review can be of use as a reference for researchers involved in the genesis of tissues and organs.
Laboratory Diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Anticoagulated Patients
Authors: Tripodi Armando , Scalambrino Erica , Clerici Marigrazia , Peyvandi Flora
Published: June 2023

The laboratory diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) requires the measurement of solid-phase antibodies to cardiolipin or β2-Glycoprotein-I and the search for lupus anticoagulant (LA). The diagnosis of patients whilst on anticoagulation is impaired by the difficult interpretation of results, at least for LA, owing to the fact that prolongations of clotting times induced by LA superimpose those induced by anticoagulants. This is a matter of concern as treating physicians very often need to know the APS status of their patients to make a decision on secondary antithrombotic prophylaxis. This article aims to review the effect brought about by anticoagulants on APS diagnosis and discuss the options that can be used to overcome such an effect.
Low-Dose Estrogens as Neuroendocrine Modulators in Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (FHA): The Putative Triggering of the Positive Feedback Mechanism(s)
Authors: Battipaglia Christian , Petrillo Tabatha , Semprini Elisa , Ricciardiello Francesco , Rusce Maria Laura , Prampolini Greta , Ambrosetti Fedora , Sponzilli Alessandra , Genazzani Alessandro D.
Published: June 2023

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is a non-organic reversible chronic endocrine disorder characterized by an impaired pulsatile secretion of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. This impaired secretion, triggered by psychosocial and metabolic stressors, leads to an abnormal pituitary production of gonadotropins. As LH and FSH release is defective, the ovarian function is steadily reduced, inducing a systemic hypoestrogenic condition characterized by amenorrhea, vaginal atrophy, mood changes and increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Diagnosis of FHA is made excluding other possible causes for secondary amenorrhea, and it is based upon the findings of low serum gonadotropins and estradiol (E2) with evidence of precipitating factors (excessive exercise, low weight, stress). Treatments of women with FHA include weight gain through an appropriate diet and physical activity reduction, psychological support, and integrative approach up to estrogen replacement therapy. If no spontaneous ovarian function is restored, assisted reproductive technologies may be used when pregnancy is desired. Because subjects with FHA are hypoestrogenic, the use of low-dose estrogens has been proposed as a putative treatment to positively modulate the spontaneous restart of gonadotropin secretion, counteracting the blockade of the reproductive axis triggered by stress acting through the neuroendocrine pathways at the basis of positive feedback of estrogens. The mechanism through which low-dose estrogens acts is still unknown, but kisspeptin-secreting neurons may be involved.
High Rate of Mutations of Adhesion Molecules and Extracellular Matrix Glycoproteins in Patients with Adult-Onset Focal and Segmental Glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Marcos González Sara , Rodrigo Calabia Emilio , Varela Ignacio , Červienka Michal , Freire Salinas Javier , Gómez Román José Javier
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a pattern of injury that results from podocyte loss in the setting of a wide variety of injurious mechanisms. These include both acquired and genetic as well as primary and secondary causes, or a combination thereof, without optimal therapy, and a high rate of patients develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Genetic studies have helped improve the global understanding of FSGS syndrome; thus, we hypothesize that patients with primary FSGS may have underlying alterations in adhesion molecules or extracellular matrix glycoproteins related to previously unreported mutations that may be studied through next-generation sequencing (NGS). (2) Methods: We developed an NGS panel with 29 genes related to adhesion and extracellular matrix glycoproteins. DNA was extracted from twenty-three FSGS patients diagnosed by renal biopsy; (3) Results: The average number of accumulated variants in FSGS patients was high. We describe the missense variant ITGB3c.1199G>A, which is considered pathogenic; in addition, we discovered the nonsense variant CDH1c.499G>T, which lacks a Reference SNP (rs) Report and is considered likely pathogenic. (4) Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first account of a high rate of change in extracellular matrix glycoproteins and adhesion molecules in individuals with adult-onset FSGS. The combined effect of all these variations may result in a genotype that is vulnerable to the pathogenesis of glomerulopathy.
Immersive Technologies-Driven Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the Context of Metaverse
Authors: Liu Zhen , Gong Shiqi , Tan Zhiya , Demian Peter
Published: June 2023

At present, considering the novelty of Immersive Technologies (ImTs) associated with Digital Twin (DT), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) in the context of the metaverse and its rapid and ongoing development in Building Information Modeling (BIM), knowledge of specific possibilities and methods for integrating ImTs into building process workflows remains fragmented and scarce. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the research progress and trends of immersive technology-driven BIM applications, providing a helpful reference for understanding the current knowledge system and stimulating future research. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to use macro-quantitative bibliometric analysis and micro-qualitative analysis methods to explore the research topic of ImTs-driven BIM. This study obtains 758 related studies in the past decade, year 2013 to 2022, through a series of keywords from the Web of Science Core Collection database and uses VOSviewer software to conduct keywords co-occurrence analysis and overlay visualisation to visualise the relationship between ImTs and BIM, which contains six clusters, namely VR, Internet of Things (IoT), DT, 3D model, design, and AR. The macro-quantitative analysis on ImTs-driven BIM applications throughout all the stages of the building lifecycle reveals the themes, content, and characteristics of the applications across the stages, which tend to be integrated with emerging advanced technology and tools, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and deep learning.
Barriers to Social Responsibility Implementation in Belt and Road Mega Infrastructure Projects: A Hybrid Fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC Approach
Authors: Alqershy Mohammed Taha , Shi Qian
Published: June 2023

Social responsibility strategies are indispensable for the sustainable development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Nonetheless, the application of social responsibility (SR) policies in such mega infrastructure projects remains a pressing concern since a number of barriers impede the effective integration of SR practices. Therefore, this paper seeks to identify these barriers and determine the interrelationships among them. A list of barriers was first identified from a literature review and expert consultation. Subsequently, a survey was designed to collect experts’ views on the interrelations among these barriers. The Fuzzy DEMATEL method was employed to analyze these barriers’ causal relationships and interdependencies. Subsequently, the ISM approach was used to develop a hierarchical structure and establish the driving and dependence relationships among them. The classification of barriers, based on driving power and dependence power, was accomplished using the MICMAC analysis. The results reveal that barriers such as “The diverse institutions, cultures, and social conditions among BRI countries”, “Lack of robust social responsibility laws and regulations in the host countries”, “Lack of stringent and legally binding BRI policies and guidelines governing social responsibility”, “The diverse environmental and social frameworks and standards among BRI countries”, “The diverse international, national, and private funds for BRI projects”, and “Lack of customer awareness and knowledge of CSR” are the most critical barriers and have the greatest influence on social responsibility implementation. Identifying these key barriers and their interrelationships will assist decision-makers, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in BRI mega infrastructure projects in minimizing or overcoming them, hence increasing the chances of successfully integrating social responsibility practices within these projects.
Enhanced Recovery after Surgery and Endometrial Cancers: Results from an Initial Experience Focused on Elderly Patients
Authors: Miguet Céline , Jauffret Camille , Zemmour Christophe , Boher Jean-Marie , Sabiani Laura , Houvenaeghel Gilles , Blache Guillaume , Brun Clément , Lambaudie Eric
Published: June 2023

Endometrial cancer is the fifth most common cancer among French women and occurs most frequently in the over-70-year-old population. Recent years have seen a significant shift towards minimally invasive surgery and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in endometrial cancer management. However, the impact of ERAS on endometrial cancer has not been well-established. We conducted a prospective observational study in a comprehensive cancer center, comparing the outcomes between endometrial cancer patients who received care in an ERAS pathway (261) and those who did not (166) between 2006 and 2020. We performed univariate and multivariate analysis. Our primary objective was to evaluate the impact of ERAS on length of hospital stay (LOS), with the secondary objectives being the determination of the rates of early discharge, post-operative morbidity, and rehospitalization. We found that patients in the ERAS group had a significantly shorter length of stay, with an average of 3.18 days compared to 4.87 days for the non-ERAS group (estimated decrease −1.69, p < 0.0001). This effect was particularly pronounced among patients over 70 years old (estimated decrease −2.06, p < 0.0001). The patients in the ERAS group also had a higher chance of early discharge (47.5% vs. 14.5% in the non-ERAS group, p < 0.0001), for which there was not a significant increase in post-operative complications. Our study suggests that ERAS protocols are beneficial for the management of endometrial cancer, particularly for older patients, and could lead to the development of ambulatory pathways.
Phospholipase Family Enzymes in Lung Cancer: Looking for Novel Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Salucci Sara , Aramini Beatrice , Bartoletti-Stella Anna , Versari Ilaria , Martinelli Giovanni , Blalock William , Stella Franco , Faenza Irene
Published: June 2023

Lung cancer (LC) is the second most common neoplasm in men and the third most common in women. In the last decade, LC therapies have undergone significant improvements with the advent of immunotherapy. However, the effectiveness of the available treatments remains insufficient due to the presence of therapy-resistant cancer cells. For decades, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have dominated the treatment strategy for LC; however, relapses occur rapidly and result in poor survival. Malignant lung tumors are classified as either small- or non-small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC and NSCLC). Despite improvements in the treatment of LC in recent decades, the benefits of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are limited, although they have improved the prognosis of LC despite the persistent low survival rate due to distant metastasis in the late stage. The identification of novel prognostic molecular markers is crucial to understand the underlying mechanisms of LC initiation and progression. The potential role of phosphatidylinositol in tumor growth and the metastatic process has recently been suggested by some researchers. Phosphatidylinositols are lipid molecules and key players in the inositol signaling pathway that have a pivotal role in cell cycle regulation, proliferation, differentiation, membrane trafficking, and gene expression. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase enzymes and their emerging roles in LC.
Targeted Therapies and Developing Precision Medicine in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Pihlak Rille , Fong Caroline , Starling Naureen
Published: June 2023

Gastric cancer is an aggressive disease with survival remaining poor in the advanced setting. More than a decade after the first targeted treatment was approved, still only HER2, MSI and PDL-1 status have reached everyday practice in terms of guiding treatment options for these patients. However, various new targets and novel treatments have recently been investigated and have shown promise in improving survival outcomes. In this review, we will summarise previous and currently ongoing studies on predictive biomarkers, possible new targeted treatments, potential reasons for conflicting trial results and hope for the future of precision medicine in gastric cancer.
DCVax-L Vaccination in Patients with Glioblastoma: Real Promise or Negative Trial? The Debate Is Open
Authors: Gatto Lidia , Di Nunno Vincenzo , Tosoni Alicia , Bartolini Stefania , Ranieri Lucia , Franceschi Enrico
Published: June 2023

The lack of significant improvement in the prognosis of patients with GB over the last decades highlights the need for innovative treatments aimed at fighting this malignancy and increasing survival outcomes. The results of the phase III clinical trial of DCVax-L (autologous tumor lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccination), which has been shown to increase both median survival and long-term survival in newly diagnosed and relapsed glioblastoma, have been enthusiastically received by the scientific community. However, this study deserves some reflections regarding methodological issues related to the primary endpoint change, the long accrual period, and the suboptimal validity of the external control population used as the comparison arm.
Fe-N-C Catalyst Derived from MOFs with Enhanced Catalytic Performance for Selective Oxidation of Emerging Contaminants
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Wang Yan , Wan Jinquan , Yan Zhicheng
Published: June 2023

Fe-N-C/peroxymonosulfate (PMS) systems have demonstrated selective oxidation of pollutants, but the underlying mechanism and reasons for variability remain unclear. In this work, we synthesized a highly active Fe-N-C catalyst derived from MOFs using a pyrolysis protection strategy. We assessed its catalytic activity by employing PMS as an activator for pollutant degradation. The presence of Fe-Nx sites favored the catalytic performance of FeMIL-N-C, exhibiting 23 times higher activity compared to N-C. Moreover, we investigated the degradation performance and mechanism of the FeMIL-N-C/PMS system through both experimental and theoretical analyses, focusing on pollutants with diverse electronic structures, namely bisphenol A (BPA) and atrazine (ATZ)N-C. Our findings revealed that the degradation of ATZ primarily follows the free radical pathway, whereas BPA degradation is dominated by electron transfer pathways. Specifically, pollutants with a low LUMO- HOMO energy gap (BPA) can be degraded via the FeMIL-N-C/PMS system through the electron transfer pathway. Conversely, pollutants with a high LUMO-HOMO energy gap (ATZ) exhibit limited electron donation and predominantly undergo degradation through the free radical pathway. This work introduces novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the selective oxidation of pollutants, facilitating a deeper understanding of effective pollutant removal strategies.
Facing the Challenges in the COVID-19 Pandemic Era: From Standard Treatments to the Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells as a New Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Russo Eleonora , Corrao Simona , Di Gaudio Francesca , Alberti Giusi , Caprnda Martin , Kubatka Peter , Kruzliak Peter , Miceli Vitale , Conaldi Pier Giulio , Borlongan Cesario Venturina , La Rocca Giampiero
Published: June 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which counts more than 650 million cases and more than 6.6 million of deaths worldwide, affects the respiratory system with typical symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and fatigue. Other nonpulmonary manifestations are related with abnormal inflammatory response, the “cytokine storm”, that could lead to a multiorgan disease and to death. Evolution of effective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 provided multiple options to prevent the infection, but the treatment of the severe forms remains difficult to manage. The cytokine storm is usually counteracted with standard medical care and anti-inflammatory drugs, but researchers moved forward their studies on new strategies based on cell therapy approaches. The perinatal tissues, such as placental membranes, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord derivatives, are enriched in mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) that exert a well-known anti-inflammatory role, immune response modulation, and tissue repair. In this review, we focused on umbilical-cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) used in in vitro and in vivo studies in order to evaluate the weakening of the severe symptoms, and on recent clinical trials from different databases, supporting the favorable potential of UC-MSCs as therapeutic strategy.
Investigation of the Antifungal and Anticancer Effects of the Novel Synthesized Thiazolidinedione by Ion-Conductance Microscopy
Authors: Savin Nikita , Erofeev Alexander , Timoshenko Roman , Vaneev Alexander , Garanina Anastasiia , Salikhov Sergey , Grammatikova Natalia , Levshin Igor , Korchev Yuri , Gorelkin Petr
Published: June 2023

In connection with the emergence of new pathogenic strains of Candida, the search for more effective antifungal drugs becomes a challenge. Part of the preclinical trials of such drugs can be carried out using the innovative ion-conductance microscopy (ICM) method, whose unique characteristics make it possible to study the biophysical characteristics of biological objects with high accuracy and low invasiveness. We conducted a study of a novel synthesized thiazolidinedione’s antimicrobial (for Candida spp.) and anticancer properties (on samples of the human prostate cell line PC3), and its drug toxicity (on a sample of the human kidney cell line HEK293). We used a scanning ion-conductance microscope (SICM) to obtain the topography and mechanical properties of cells and an amperometric method using Pt-nanoelectrodes to register reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression. All data and results are obtained and presented for the first time.
Rapid Matching Antibodies Pair and Fast Detecting Melioidosis with Fluorescent Immunochromatographic Test Strips
Authors: Lin Yi-Zhi , Zhou Ting-Ting , Zhu Jin , Ding Shou-Nian
Published: June 2023

The high infectivity, difficulty to diagnose, and high drug resistance of melioidosis limited the timeliness of treatment. Lateral flow assay (LFA) was operated in this research to provide an instant diagnosis method, and a fast antibody rapid matching test strategy based on LFA was developed to select the most sensitive and specific pair of antibodies. Compared to the traditional ELISA method, the new matching strategy limits the pairing time to 3 h without any complex instruments. The rapid pairing test strategy is a universal strategy that is suitable for various sandwich immune antigen pairings. To fasten the test of the test strips, dry fluorescence immunoassay analyzer (DFIA) was designed and applied. The equipment also simplifies the process of data acquisition. Finally, the concentration gradient test was operated, and the detection lines and limits were presented.
State of the Art Bowel Management for Pediatric Colorectal Problems: Functional Constipation
Authors: Bokova Elizaveta , Svetanoff Wendy Jo , Rosen John M. , Levitt Marc A. , Rentea Rebecca M.
Published: June 2023

Background: Functional constipation (FC) affects up to 32% of the pediatric population, and some of these patients are referred to pediatric surgery units to manage their constipation and/or fecal incontinence. The aim of the current paper is to report the recent updates on the evaluation and management of children with FC as a part of a manuscript series on bowel management in patients with anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung disease, spinal anomalies, and FC. Methods: A literature search was performed using Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases and focusing on the manuscripts published within the last 5–10 years. Results: The first step of management of children with FC is to exclude Hirschsprung disease with a contrast study, examination under anesthesia, anorectal manometry (AMAN). If AMAN shows absent rectoanal inhibitory reflex, a rectal biopsy is performed. Internal sphincter achalasia or high resting pressures indicate botulinum toxin injection. Medical management options include laxatives, rectal enemas, transanal irrigations, and antegrade flushes. Those who fail conservative treatment require further assessment of colonic motility and can be candidates for colonic resection. The type of resection (subtotal colonic resection vs. Deloyer’s procedure) can be guided with a balloon expulsion test. Conclusion: Most of the patients with FC referred for surgical evaluation can be managed conservatively. Further studies are required to determine an optimal strategy of surgical resection in children unresponsive to medical treatment.
The Therapeutic Aspects of Embroidery in Art Therapy from the Perspective of Adolescent Girls in a Post-Hospitalization Boarding School
Authors: Wolk Nurit , Bat Or Michal
Published: June 2023

This phenomenological qualitative study explored the experiences of adolescent girls with emotional disorders from post-hospitalization boarding schools who embroidered in an art therapy open studio group. A Youth Participatory Action Research approach and the bioecological model were used to shed light on the therapeutic process of embroidery. Through a thematic analysis of the focus groups and interviews with 13 participants, we identified five themes specifically related to embroidery: (a) control versus release/freedom; (b) calmness that comes from the repetitive action and focus; (c) the experience of being exceptional versus conventional; (d) the “stitch through time” experience, which involves a dialogue with the past, present, and future through embroidery; and (e) the overt-latent layers of consciousness. The findings suggest that embroidery has therapeutic benefits for this population and supports psychological development. This study reveals that embroidery, whose threads are intricately embedded in society and culture, and may provide a unique and meaningful activity for young people in post-hospitalization boarding schools and enables a social and cultural exploration of self and community. Limitations of this study and recommendations for further research are also discussed.
The Burden of Comorbidities in Obstructive Sleep Apnea and the Pathophysiologic Mechanisms and Effects of CPAP
Authors: Sircu Victoria , Colesnic Silvia-Iaroslava , Covantsev Serghei , Corlateanu Olga , Sukhotko Anna , Popovici Cristian , Corlateanu Alexandru
Published: June 2023

Micro-arousals and the repeated desaturation of oxyhemoglobin, which are typical in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), have adverse effects on the health of patients, leading to a wide range of complications such as cardiovascular (arterial hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, chronic heart failure, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction), cerebrovascular (strokes), metabolic (insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome), gastrointestinal (non-alcoholic liver disease), urinary (chronic renal failure), and neuropsychiatric complications as well as a wide range of malignancies. These, in turn, have multilateral effects on familial, occupational, and social life, as well as increasing the risks of road traffic accidents and accidents at the workplace. Awareness, timely screening, and the prevention of complications play important roles in diagnosing and treating comorbid conditions. This review focuses on comorbidities in OSAS and the effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy on their prognoses.
Simulation of Multi-Phase Flow to Test the Effectiveness of the Casting Yard Aspiration System
Authors: Lobov Serghii , Pylypko Yevhen , Kruchyna Viktoriya , Bereshko Ihor
Published: June 2023

The metallurgical industry is in second place among all other industries in terms of emissions into the atmosphere, and air pollution is the main cause of environmental problems arising from the activities of metallurgical enterprises. In some existing systems for localization, in the trapping and removal of dust emissions from tapholes and cast-iron gutters of foundries, air flow parameters may differ from the optimal ones for solving aspiration problems. The largest emissions are observed in the area of the taphole (40–60%) and from the ladles during their filling (35–50%). In this paper, it is proposed to consider a variant of the blast furnace aspiration system with the simultaneous supply of a dust–gas–air mixture from two-side smoke exhausters and two upper hoods with two simultaneously operating tapholes, that is, when the blast furnace operates in the maximum emissions mode. This article proposes an assessment of the effectiveness of the modernized blast furnace aspiration system using computer CFD modeling, where its main parameters are given. It is shown that the efficiency of dust collection in the proposed system is more than 90%, and the speed of the gas–dust mixture is no lower than 20 m/s, which prevents gravitational settling on the walls. The distribution fields of temperatures and velocities are obtained for further engineering analysis and the possible improvement of aspiration systems.
Frustrated Magnetism and Ferroelectricity in a Dy3+-Based Triangular Lattice
Authors: Xu Xianghan , Won Choongjae , Cheong Sang-Wook
Published: June 2023

Triangular lattice magnets have attracted extensive research interest because they are potential hosts for geometrically frustrated magnetism and strong quantum fluctuations. Here, utilizing a laser floating zone technique, we report the first-time successful growth of a DyInO3 sizable crystal, which contains Dy3+-based triangular layers. The fine-tuning of Indium stoichiometry was found to be the key factor in the stabilization of the desired hexagonal phase. The X-ray diffraction study of the crystal structure reveals a non-centrosymmetric P63mc space group. Switchable polarization, i.e., ferroelectricity, and ferroelectric domain configuration are experimentally demonstrated at room temperature. Anisotropic magnetic and thermodynamic measurements unveil antiferromagnetic interactions, the absence of long-range ordering down to 0.1 K, and a possible doublet ground state, indicating a strongly frustrated magnetism. Our findings suggest that the DyInO3 crystal is an excellent platform for studying emergent phenomena and their interplay with coherent topological defects in the quantum realm.
Atomic-Scale Imaging of Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Using Transmission Electron Microscope
Authors: Bao Lixia , Gao Peifeng , Song Tinglu , Xu Fan , Li Zikun , Xu Gu
Published: June 2023

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) is thought as one powerful tool to imaging the atomic-level structure of organic inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHP) materials, which provides valuable and essential guidance toward high performance OIHP-related devices. However, these OIHPs exhibit poor electron beam stability, severely limiting their practical applications in TEM. Here in this article, the application of TEM to obtain atomic-scale image of OIHPs, main obstacles in identifying the degradation product and future prospects of TEM in the characterization of OIHP materials are reviewed and presented. Three potential strategies (sample protection, low temperature technology, and low-dose technologies) are also proposed to overcome the current drawback of TEM technology.
A Comparative Study on Gemological Characteristics and Color Formation Mechanism of Moqi Agate, Inner Mongolia Province, China
Authors: Zhang Sixue , Cui Li , Guo Qingfeng , Li Niu , Liu Yang , Rao Yinghua , Liao Libing
Published: June 2023

Agate attracts the attention of gem mineralogists because of its variable colors. The color of agate is closely related to its naming and classification, so it is necessary to study the color and mineral origin of agate. In this paper, the mineralogical characteristics and color origin of red, yellow and green Moqi agates from Inner Mongolia were systematically studied by means of Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, Raman spectrometer, X-ray powder diffractometer, electron probe microanalyzer and ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer. It is found that the color of Moqi agate is related to the minerals and trace elements contained in it, and is associated with the electron transition or charge transfer of Fe ions in the contained minerals. Green agate has the highest Fe content, and its color is caused by celadonite inclusions. The red and yellow color in Moqi agate is mainly caused by hematite and goethite, while red agate contains more Fe than yellow agate. Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis show that the content of moganite in Moqi agate is 0–30%. It is calculated that the crystallinity of Moqi agate is 1.5–3.5. This work provides a theoretical basis for future research on the identification of Moqi agate.
A New Species of Vampirolepis (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea: Hymenolepididae) from the Bat Artibeus lituratus (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) in the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Michele Maria , Simões Raquel de Oliveira , D’Andrea Paulo Sérgio , Verde Rair de Sousa , Maldonado Júnior Arnaldo , Argueta Cartagena Reina Isabel , Ubiali Daniel Guimarães , Luque José Luis
Published: June 2023

The Amazon biome has a great diversity of bat species. In the state of Acre, Brazil, there is an estimated occurrence of 64 bat species with the species of the genus Artibeus as one of the most abundant. Despite their abundance and widespread distribution within the biome, the helminth fauna from Amazonian bats is still poorly known. In this way, the objective of this study is to describe a new species of cestode from the genus Vampirolepis found in A. lituratus, collected at the Parque Estadual do Chandless, a natural preserved area, located in the Purus River Basin, Southwest Amazon, the state of Acre. The new species of Vampirolepis is distinguished from the others by the number and size of hooks, testes disposition, size of the cirrus sac, ovaries and internal and external seminal vesicles. Additionally, molecular study showed that this forms a paraphyletic clade with Vampirolepis elongatus.
Comparative Phylogeography, Historical Demography, and Population Genetics of Three Common Coastal Fauna in Spartina Marshes of the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Espinoza Gloria Janelle , Alvarado Bremer Jaime R.
Published: June 2023

Coastal wetlands worldwide are experiencing high rates of loss and degradation that may lead to a reduction in diversity in faunal populations. Since salt marsh habitats are subject to a multitude of stressors, evaluations of the genetic diversity, connectivity, and potential resilience of faunal communities within salt marsh habitats are relevant. This study characterizes mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diversity for three common faunal residents of salt marshes along the northern Gulf of Mexico. Gulf Killifish (Fundulus grandis) samples were characterized for 1077 bp of the concatenated nucleotide sequence corresponding to the Control Region and Nitrogen Dehydrogenase, Subunits 2 and 5. Daggerblade grass shrimp (Palaemon pugio) samples were characterized using 466 bp of 16sRNA sequence, and phloem-feeding planthoppers (Prokelisia marginata) were characterized using 372 bp of Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I (COI) sequence. For F. grandis, our data revealed high levels of haplotypic diversity, evidence of isolation by distance (IBD), and regional population structuring associated with the distribution of two distinct phylogroups and distinct historical demography signatures. P. pugio and P. marginata displayed low levels of haplotypic diversity and evidence of population structure, but both appear to contain only snapshots of the total potential diversity for these species in the Gulf of Mexico. Greater resolution of the patterns of historical demography of Gulf Killifish may be obtained in future studies by including localities from Florida and Mexico. For both P. pugio and planthoppers, future studies would benefit from the characterization of genetic markers with a higher degree of polymorphism. We conclude that despite these three species inhabiting the same habitats along the same stretch of coast, each is subject to a different combination of evolutionary forces, and this study was able to reconstruct differences in how the genetic variation in each of these species emerged, and how it is maintained.
Influence of Distance from Forest Edges on Spontaneous Vegetation Succession Following Small-Scale Gold Mining in the Southeast Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Garate-Quispe Jorge , Velásquez Ramírez Manuel , Becerra-Lira Edwin , Baez-Quispe Sufer , Abril-Surichaqui Milagro , Rodriguez-Achata Liset , Muñoz-Ushñahua Adenka , Nascimento Herbay Pedro , Fernandez-Mamani Yoni , Alarcon-Aguirre Gabriel , Herrera-Machaca Marx , Hilares Vargas Litcely , Corvera Gomringer Ronald , del Castillo Torres Dennis
Published: June 2023

Few studies describe the factors that influence the natural regeneration in abandoned gold mining areas in the Amazon. Here we focus on the influence of the distance to the forest edge and abandonment time in a spontaneous succession of degraded areas by gold mining in the southeastern Peruvian Amazon. We assessed woody species composition (DBH ≥ 1 cm) and forest stand structure across a chronosequence (2–23 years). A total of 79 species belonging to 30 families were identified. The natural regeneration was dominated by Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Urticaceae. Together, they represented 60% of the importance index. Cecropia membranacea and Ochroma pyramidale were the dominant pioneer species at the initial successional stage. The basal area and species diversity were directly related to time after abandonment and inversely related to the distance to forest edges. The distance-based redundancy analysis showed that more of the variation in species composition was explained by distance to the forest edge than the abandonment time. Our study revealed that regeneration was relatively slow and provided evidence that the distance to the forest edge is important for natural regeneration in areas degraded by gold mining.
Morphological Characteristics and DNA Barcoding of the Rare Blanket Octopus Tremoctopus violaceus (Cephalopoda: Tremoctopodidae) in the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Petrić Mirela , Dragičević Branko , Stanić Rino , Trumbić Željka
Published: June 2023

Tremoctopods are epipelagic argonautoid octopods characterized by their expanded dorsal webs and strong sexual size dimorphism, with dwarfed males. The scarcity of taxonomic features attributed to this genus presents a challenge, and there is growing evidence of species misidentification in Tremoctopus genus on a molecular level. In this study, we investigated four female specimens of blanket octopus Tremoctopus violaceus caught by purse seine fishing in the Central Eastern Adriatic Sea in 2019. Individuals had smooth, firm and muscular bodies, dark bluish purple on the dorsal and iridescent silvery on the ventral side, with dorsal mantle lengths of 113, 82, 80 and 78 mm. The constructed phylogenetic trees based on the 16S ribosomal RNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences of investigated Adriatic specimens and publicly available sequences showed strong support for the T. violaceus clade, consisting of individuals collected from the Adriatic Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, with the exclusion of Indo-Pacific clade most probably corresponding to T. gracilis. To fully understand the life-history traits of Tremoctopus species, future research should focus on DNA-based methods for correct species identification combined with morphological characters, geographic distribution and ecological information.
Interest of Absolute Eosinopenia as a Marker of Influenza in Outpatients during the Fall-Winter Seasons 2016–2018 in the Greater Paris Area: The SUPERFLUOUS Study
Authors: Davido Benjamin , Lemarie Benoit , Gault Elyanne , Dumoulin Jennifer , D’anglejan Emma , Beaune Sebastien , De Truchis Pierre
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Prior to the emergence of COVID-19, when influenza was the predominant cause of viral respiratory tract infections (VRTIs), this study aimed to analyze the distinct biological abnormalities associated with influenza in outpatient settings. Methods: A multicenter retrospective study was conducted among outpatients, with the majority seeking consultation at the emergency department, who tested positive for VRTIs using RT-PCR between 2016 and 2018. Patient characteristics were compared between influenza (A and B types) and non-influenza viruses, and predictors of influenza were identified using two different models focusing on absolute eosinopenia (0/mm3) and lymphocyte count <800/mm3. Results: Among 590 VRTIs, 116 (19.7%) were identified as outpatients, including 88 cases of influenza. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed the following predictors of influenza: in the first model, winter season (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 7.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–45.08) and absolute eosinopenia (aOR 6.16, 95% CI 1.14–33.24); in the second model, winter season (aOR 9.08, 95% CI 1.49–55.40) and lymphocyte count <800/mm3 (aOR 7.37, 95% CI 1.86–29.20). Absolute eosinopenia exhibited the highest specificity and positive predictive value (92% and 92.3%, respectively). Conclusion: During the winter season, specific biological abnormalities can aid physicians in identifying influenza cases and guide the appropriate use of antiviral therapy when rapid molecular tests are not readily available.
Intravascular Imaging versus Physiological Assessment versus Biomechanics—Which Is a Better Guide for Coronary Revascularization
Authors: Starczyński Miłosz , Dudek Stanisław , Baruś Piotr , Niedzieska Emilia , Wawrzeńczyk Mateusz , Ochijewicz Dorota , Piasecki Adam , Gumiężna Karolina , Milewski Krzysztof , Grabowski Marcin , Kochman Janusz , Tomaniak Mariusz
Published: June 2023

Today, coronary artery disease (CAD) continues to be a prominent cause of death worldwide. A reliable assessment of coronary stenosis represents a prerequisite for the appropriate management of CAD. Nevertheless, there are still major challenges pertaining to some limitations of current imaging and functional diagnostic modalities. The present review summarizes the current data on invasive functional and intracoronary imaging assessment using optical coherence tomography (OCT), and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Amongst the functional parameters—on top of fractional flow reserve (FFR) and instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR)—we point to novel angiography-based measures such as quantitative flow ratio (QFR), vessel fractional flow reserve (vFFR), angiography-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRangio), and computed tomography-derived flow fractional reserve (FFR-CT), as well as hybrid approaches focusing on optical flow ratio (OFR), computational fluid dynamics and attempts to quantify the forces exaggerated by blood on the coronary plaque and vessel wall.
The Spectrum of Solitary Benign Splenic Lesions—Imaging Clues for a Noninvasive Diagnosis
Authors: Gourtsoyianni Sofia , Laniado Michael , Ros-Mendoza Luis , Mansueto Giancarlo , Zamboni Giulia A.
Published: June 2023

Cross-sectional imaging of the upper abdomen, especially if intravenous contrast has been administered, will most likely reveal any acute or chronic disease harbored in the spleen. Unless imaging is performed with the specific purpose of evaluating the spleen or characterizing a known splenic lesion, incidentally discovered splenic lesions pose a small challenge. Solitary benign splenic lesions include cysts, hemangiomas, sclerosing angiomatous nodular transformation (SANT), hamartomas, and abscesses, among others. Sarcoidosis and tuberculosis, although predominantly diffuse micronodular disease processes, may also present as a solitary splenic mass lesion. In addition, infarction and rupture, both traumatic and spontaneous, may take place in the spleen. This review aims to describe the imaging features of the most common benign focal splenic lesions, with emphasis on the imaging findings as these are encountered on routine cross-sectional imaging from a multicenter pool of cases that, coupled with clinical information, can allow a definite diagnosis.