bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Paradigm for Assessing Detailed Dynamics of Forest Landscape Fragmentation
Authors: Lin Xin , Zhen Shiyong , Zhao Qing , Hu Xisheng
Published: July 2024

There is an urgent need for a thorough assessment of forest landscape fragmentation to inform forest protection and restoration, and reforestation policies. However, there is currently a lack of an effective comprehensive index for forest landscape fragmentation, and detailed knowledge of the forest landscape fragmentation dynamics remains insufficient. Here, taking Putian City of Fujian Province in Southeastern China as a case, we employed a forest fragmentation comprehensive index (FFCI) to capture key features of forest landscape fragmentation, such as patch size, number, and distribution. Then, bivariate spatial autocorrelation analysis was employed to identify the spatial associations between the static forest landscape fragmentation (FFCI) and the dynamic forest landscape fragmentation (ΔFFCI), and the spatial coupling modes among the three individual components of FFCI (mean patch area, MPA; aggregation index, AI; patch density, PD) were identified to explore the detail process of forest landscape fragmentation. Finally, the random forest model was applied to observe the impact factors of forest landscape fragmentation dynamics. The findings showed that forest landscapes with different degrees of fragmentation exhibited more noticeable changes at both ends (i.e., either high or lower-level fragmentation), with the intermediate level remaining consistent from 2000 to 2020. Around 18.3% of forest landscapes experienced a decrease in fragmentation, particularly in the northern part of the study area, while approximately 81.7% of forest landscapes exhibited an increasing trend in fragmentation. The bivariate spatial autocorrelation analysis indicated that the proportion of Low–High-type grids was the highest at 17.3%, followed by the High–High type at 7.0%. We also identified eight forest landscape fragmentation modes, which indicate the most significant forest landscape fragmentation pattern is a decrease in MPA and an increase in PD. Moreover, the anthropogenic factors (e.g., population density and night light intensity) were found to dominate the FFCI dynamics during 2000–2020. This study offers an efficient research paradigm for the dynamics of forest landscape fragmentation. The outcomes are conducive to an in-depth comprehension of the detailed dynamic information of forest landscape fragmentation, and supply a scientific foundation for enhancing the overall ecological service function of the forest.
Importance of Forest Ecosystem within Important Plant Areas (IPAs) for the Development of Nature-Based Tourism—A Case Study of Fruška Gora National Park
Authors: Ristić Vladica , Trišić Igor , Štetić Snežana , Nechita Florin , Candrea Adina Nicoleta , Majstorović Nevena , Tomašević Vladimir
Published: July 2024

Botanical areas under international protection are important for preserving plant and animal ecosystems. Forest ecosystems within Important Plant Areas (IPAs) are essential for preserving biological and species diversity. In AP Vojvodina (Northern Serbia), there are 27 IPAs, totaling 328,208 ha. Fruška Gora National Park (FGNP) territory is under international protection as an IPA. A large part of this park is covered by a forest ecosystem comprising various deciduous and evergreen trees, shrubs, and grasses. The forest ecosystem in FGNP is rich with natural attractions that are important for hiking, mountaineering, trekking, scientific tourism, wildlife, bird and animal watching, and community tourism. In this article, the authors used a quantitative method of collecting and processing data obtained through survey research. For this research, 610 respondents (325 residents and 285 visitors) were surveyed. Using questionnaires, the respondents expressed their opinions about the tourism potential of FGNP, as well as the satisfaction of tourists with current tourism development. The research results indicate that the forest ecosystem within the FGNP and IPA area has an important potential for the development of nature-based tourism (NbT) and that this tourism form significantly affects not only the satisfaction of the respondents but also increased awareness of the preservation and protection of these areas.
Mapping Planted Forests in the Korean Peninsula Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Mitra Ankita , Alvarez Cesar Ivan , Abbasi Akane O. , Harris Nancy L. , Shao Guofan , Pijanowski Bryan C. , Jahanshahi Mohammad Reza , Gamarra Javier G. P. , Kim Hyun-Seok , Kim Tae-Kyung , Ryu Daun , Liang Jingjing
Published: July 2024

Forests are essential for maintaining the ecological balance of the planet and providing critical ecosystem services. Amidst an increasing rate of global forest loss due to various natural and anthropogenic factors, many countries are committed to battling forest loss by planting new forests. Despite the reported national statistics on the land area in plantations, accurately delineating boundaries of planted forests with remotely sensed data remains a great challenge. In this study, we explored several deep learning approaches based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for mapping the extent of planted forests in the Korean Peninsula. Our methodology involved data preprocessing, the application of data augmentation techniques, and rigorous model training, with performance assessed using various evaluation metrics. To ensure robust performance and accuracy, we validated the model’s predictions across the Korean Peninsula. Our analysis showed that the integration of the Near Infrared band from 10 m Sentinel-2 remote sensing images with the UNet deep learning model, incorporated with unfrozen ResNet-34 backbone architecture, produced the best model performance. With a recall of 64% and precision of 76.8%, the UNet model surpassed the other pixel-based deep learning models, including DeepLab and Pyramid Sense Parsing, in terms of classification accuracy. When compared to the ensemble-based Random Forest (RF) machine learning model, the RF approach demonstrates a significantly lower recall rate of 55.2% and greater precision of 92%. These findings highlight the unique strength of deep learning and machine learning approaches for mapping planted forests in diverse geographical regions on Earth.
Thirty Years of Progress in Our Understanding of the Nature and Influence of Fire in Carboniferous Ecosystems
Authors: Scott Andrew C.
Published: July 2024

Until the late 20th century, the idea of identifying wildfires in deep time was not generally accepted. One of the basic problems was the fact that charcoal-like wood fragments, so often found in sedimentary rocks and in coals, were termed fusain and, in addition, many researchers could not envision wildfires in peat-forming systems. The advent of Scanning Electron Microscopy and studies on modern charcoals and fossil fusains demonstrated beyond doubt that wildfire residues may be recognized in rocks dating back to at least 350 million years. Increasing numbers of studies on modern and fossil charcoal assemblages from the 1970s through the 1990s established the potential importance of wildfires in the fossil record, using Carboniferous examples in particular. Since the 1990s, extensive progress has been made in understanding modern wildfires and their byproducts. New techniques to study ancient charcoals have allowed considerable progress to be made to integrate modern and ancient fire studies, both before and after the evolution of mankind. Four important developments have made a reassessment of Carboniferous wildfires necessary: the recognition of the role of atmospheric oxygen in controlling the occurrence of wildfire; the development of new microscopical techniques allowing more detailed anatomical data to be obtained from charcoal; the integration of molecular studies with the evolution of fire traits; and new developments in or understanding of post-fire erosion/deposition systems.
The Impact of Three White-Rot Fungi on Nutrient Availability, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Volatile Fatty Acid Production in Myceliated Sorghum
Authors: Olagunju Lydia K. , Isikhuemhen Omoanghe S. , Dele Peter A. , Anike Felicia N. , Alabi Joel O. , Ike Kelechi A. , Shaw Yasmine , Brice Rosetta M. , Orimaye Oluteru E. , Wuaku Michael , Udombang Nkese S. , Anele Uchenna Y.
Published: July 2024

Our study employed Pleurotus ostreatus, P. djamor, and Trametes versicolor (white rot fungi = WRF) in the process of solid-state fermentation (SSF) to convert sorghum grains into myceliated sorghum (MS). The MS was then used for in vitro studies to assess changes in nutrient content compared to untreated sorghum (control). The results demonstrated a significant (p < 0.001) increase in dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ash, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) contents of MS. Specifically, CP and ash values saw a remarkable increase from 68 to 330% and 40 to 190% in MS, respectively. Additionally, NDF and ADF degradability values increased significantly (p < 0.001) by 81.5% and 56.2% in P. djamor-treated MS at 24 h post-incubation. The treatment × time interaction was also significant (p < 0.001) for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. T. versicolor MS exhibited the highest total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) and propionate production. The use of WRF in the SSF process led to a significant improvement in the nutritional value of sorghum. Despite the varying effects of different WRF on the nutritional parameters in MS, they show potential for enhancing the feed value of sorghum in animal feed.
CNV Analysis through Exome Sequencing Reveals a Large Duplication Involved in Sex Reversal, Neurodevelopmental Delay, Epilepsy and Optic Atrophy
Authors: Mehawej Cybel , Maalouf Joy El , Abdelkhalik Mohamad , Mahfouz Peter , Chouery Eliane , Megarbane Andre
Published: July 2024

Background: Duplications on the short arm of chromosome X, including the gene NR0B1, have been associated with gonadal dysgenesis and with male to female sex reversal. Additional clinical manifestations can be observed in the affected patients, depending on the duplicated genomic region. Here we report one of the largest duplications on chromosome X, in a Lebanese patient, and we provide the first comprehensive review of duplications in this genomic region. Case Presentation: A 2-year-old female patient born to non-consanguineous Lebanese parents, with a family history of one miscarriage, is included in this study. The patient presents with sex reversal, dysmorphic features, optic atrophy, epilepsy, psychomotor and neurodevelopmental delay. Single nucleotide variants and copy number variants analysis were carried out on the patient through exome sequencing (ES). This showed an increased coverage of a genomic region of around 23.6 Mb on chromosome Xp22.31-p21.2 (g.7137718-30739112) in the patient, suggestive of a large duplication encompassing more than 60 genes, including the NR0B1 gene involved in sex reversal. A karyotype analysis confirmed sex reversal in the proband presenting with the duplication, and revealed a balanced translocation between the short arms of chromosomes X and 14:46, X, t(X;14) (p11;p11) in her/his mother. Conclusions: This case highlights the added value of CNV analysis from ES data in the genetic diagnosis of patients. It also underscores the challenges encountered in announcing unsolicited incidental findings to the family.
A Comprehensive Review of HER2 in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics
Authors: Cheng Xiaoqing
Published: July 2024

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a targetable transmembrane glycoprotein receptor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, plays a crucial role in cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Aberrant HER2 signaling is implicated in various cancers, particularly in breast and gastric cancers, where HER2 overexpression or amplification correlates with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. HER2-activating mutations contribute to accelerated tumorigenesis and metastasis. This review provides an overview of HER2 biology, signaling pathways, mechanisms of dysregulation, and diagnostic approaches, as well as therapeutic strategies targeting HER2 in cancer. Understanding the intricate details of HER2 regulation is essential for developing effective targeted therapies and improving patient outcomes.
Evaluating the Urinary Exosome microRNA Profile of von Hippel Lindau Syndrome Patients with Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Walter-Rodriguez Beatriz , Ricketts Christopher J. , Linehan W. Marston , Merino Maria J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Renal cell carcinoma is one of the ten more common malignant tumors worldwide, with a high incidence and mortality rate. Kidney cancer frequently presents at an advanced stage, and it is almost invariably fatal. Much progress has been made in identifying molecular targets for therapy in the hope of improving survival rates, but still, we have no good markers for early detection or progression of the disease. Von Hippel Lindau syndrome (VHL) is an autosomal dominant cancer hereditary syndrome in which affected individuals are at risk of developing bilateral and multifocal renal cell carcinomas (RCC) as well as other tumors. These patients provide an ideal platform to investigate the potential of urinary exosomal miRNA biomarkers in the early development of ccRCC, as these patients are regularly imaged and tumors are actively monitored until the tumor reaches 3 cm before surgical excision. This allows for pre- and post-surgical urine collection and comparison to excised tumor tissues. Studying different biomarkers in urine can provide comprehensive molecular profiling available to patients and physicians and can be a great source of additional tumor genetic information. Methods: Pre- and postoperative urine samples were obtained from a cohort of VHL patients undergoing surveillance and surgical excision of ccRCCs, and exosomes were extracted. MicroRNA-Seq analysis was performed on miRNA extracted from both urine-derived exosomes and FFPE material from excised ccRCCs. Results: MicroRNA-Seq analysis highlighted a significant difference in the urinary exosome-derived miRNA expression profiles between VHL patients and normal control individuals. This included decreased expression of the miR-320 family, such as miR-320a, known to be decreased in sporadic ccRCC and suppressed by the HIF1α transcription factor activated by the loss of the VHL gene. MiR-542-5p represented a potential marker of VHL-associated ccRCC that was lowly expressed in normal control urinary exosomes, significantly increased in the preoperative urinary exosomes of tumor-bearing VHL patients, and subsequently reduced to normal levels of expression after tumor excision. In concordance with this, the expression of miR-542-5p was increased in the VHL-associated ccRCC in comparison to the normal kidney. Conclusions: This study shows the potential for miRNA profiling of exosomes from readily available biofluids to both distinguish VHL patient urine from normal control urine microRNAs and to provide biomarkers for the presence of VHL syndrome-associated ccRCC. Further validation studies are necessary to demonstrate the utility of urinary exosome-derived miRNAs as biomarkers in kidney cancer.
invdup(8)(8q24.13q24.3)—A Complex Alteration and Its Clinical Consequences
Authors: Mergener Rafaella , Nunes Marcela Rodrigues , Böttcher Ana Kalise , Siqueira Monique Banik , Peruzzo Helena Froener , Merola Milene Carvalho , Riegel Mariluce , Zen Paulo Ricardo Gazzola
Published: July 2024

Structural variation is a source of genetic variation that, in some cases, may trigger pathogenicity. Here, we describe two cases, a mother and son, with the same partial inverted duplication of the long arm of chromosome 8 [invdup(8)(q24.21q24.21)] of 17.18 Mb, showing different clinical manifestations: microcephaly, dorsal hypertrichosis, seizures and neuropsychomotor development delay in the child, and a cleft lip/palate, down-slanted palpebral fissures and learning disabilities in the mother. The deleterious outcome, in general, is reflected by the gain or loss of genetic material. However, discrepancies among the clinical manifestations raise some concerns about the genomic configuration within the chromosome and other genetic modifiers. With that in mind, we also performed a literature review of research published in the last 20 years about the duplication of the same, or close, chromosome region, seeking the elucidation of at least some relevant clinical features.
Continuous Improvement of an Exit Exam Tool for the Effective Assessment of Student Learning in Engineering Education
Authors: El-Hassan Hilal , Issa Anas , Hamouda Mohamed A. , Maraqa Munjed A. , El-Maaddawy Tamer
Published: July 2024

The exit exam is a comprehensive assessment tool that provides direct evidence of student learning and the level of achievement of program learning outcomes (PLOs). Initial offerings of exit exams showed poor student performance and little correlation to their coursework grades. Accordingly, a continuous improvement process was prompted, including planning, implementing, monitoring, responding, and reporting. In this context, four remedial actions were applied to the exit exam over five semesters, including distributing practice questions, followed by rescheduling exams, simplifying and distributing questions, and increasing the exit exam’s weight contribution. This study explores the effectiveness of these remedial actions to assess and improve student learning and the attainment of PLOs. The performance data indicated significant improvements in exit exam scores, with the average exit exam score increasing from 47% to 78%. Students’ exit exam performances aligned with their grade point averages (GPAs, %), evidenced by a reduction in the variation between the two parameters from 39.2% to 0.6%. Furthermore, the study confirmed that the exit exam, through continuous improvement and targeted remedial strategies, improved the attainment level of PLOs to achieve the target of 70%. The study highlights how strategic interventions can lead to significant enhancements in individual and cohort performances, providing a model for other engineering programs aiming to boost student outcomes and align with accreditation standards and student needs.
Multiple Enrollment Policy: Survival Analyses and Odds of Graduating in at Least One University Degree Program
Authors: Loder Alexander Karl Ferdinand
Published: July 2024

Austria (Europe)’s university system does not allocate tuition fees to its students and allows for multiple simultaneous enrollments. This leads to students having different constellations between earlier enrollments, i.e., “pre-studies”, and their current ones. This study aimed at gathering explorative insights into the relationship of these constellations with students’ outcomes (graduation/dropout). The sample consisted of 61,098 unique students in 108,915 programs between the academic years 2010/11 and 2022/23, with 24% of students having multiple enrollments and 26% having pre-studies. Survival analyses showed higher probabilities of graduating in each semester when students had pre-studies. Odds ratio tests revealed that the odds of graduation in at least one program are lower when having pre-studies in bachelor’s programs, but higher in master’s programs. This can be explained by the transferability of exam results, a possible knowledge transfer and academic readiness as well as a higher workload with an increasing number of enrollments.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Provide New Insights into the Response of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) to Drought Stress
Authors: Jiang Lili , Song Ruimin , Wang Xiaofang , Wang Jie , Wu Chong
Published: July 2024

Strawberry plants have shallow roots and large leaves, which are highly sensitive to variations in water levels. To explore the physicochemical and molecular mechanisms of strawberry response to water stress, and provide new ideas for strawberry scientific irrigation, we measured the transpiration rate, fresh weight, biomass gain, and other indicators of potted “Zhangji” strawberry plants under drought and waterlogging treatments using a Plantarray system. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of strawberry leaves following mild drought, moderate drought, severe drought, and rehydration treatments were performed to identify key genes and metabolites involved in the response to drought stress. Below a certain threshold, the transpiration rate of strawberry plants was significantly lower after the deficit irrigation treatment than the conventional water treatment. Transcriptome analysis revealed that genes involved in oxidoreductase activity and in sulfur and nitrogen metabolism were up-regulated, as well as starch and sucrose. Strawberry plants secrete various endogenous growth hormones to maintain their normal growth under drought stress. The syntheses of salicylic acid (SA) and abscisic acid (ABA) were up-regulated in the mild and moderate drought treatments. However, the syntheses of 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid (ACC) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) were down-regulated in severe drought treatment and up-regulated in rehydration after severe drought treatment.
Correction: Flynn et al. Introducing and Familiarising Older Adults Living with Dementia and Their Caregivers to Virtual Reality. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 16343
Authors: Flynn Aisling , Barry Marguerite , Koh Wei Qi , Reilly Gearóid , Brennan Attracta , Redfern Sam , Casey Dympna
Published: July 2024

The authors would like to make the following corrections to the published article [...]
Effect of Green Light Replacing Some Red and Blue Light on Cucumis melo under Drought Stress
Authors: Li Xue , Zhao Shiwen , Cao Qianqian , Qiu Chun , Yang Yuanyuan , Zhang Guanzhi , Wu Yongjun , Yang Zhenchao
Published: July 2024

Light quality not only directly affects the photosynthesis of green plants but also plays an important role in regulating the development and movement of leaf stomata, which is one of the key links for plants to be able to carry out normal growth and photosynthesis. By sensing changes in the light environment, plants actively regulate the expansion pressure of defense cells to change stomatal morphology and regulate the rate of CO2 and water vapor exchange inside and outside the leaf. In this study, Cucumis melo was used as a test material to investigate the mitigation effect of different red, blue, and green light treatments on short-term drought and to analyze its drought-resistant mechanism through transcriptome and metabolome analysis, so as to provide theoretical references for the regulation of stomata in the light environment to improve the water use efficiency. The results of the experiment showed that after 9 days of drought treatment, increasing the percentage of green light in the light quality significantly increased the plant height and fresh weight of the treatment compared to the control (no green light added). The addition of green light resulted in a decrease in leaf stomatal conductance and a decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, malondialdehyde MDA content, and electrolyte osmolality in the leaves of melon seedlings. It indicated that the addition of green light promoted drought tolerance in melon seedlings. Transcriptome and metabolome measurements of the control group (CK) and the addition of green light treatment (T3) showed that the addition of green light treatment not only effectively regulated the synthesis of abscisic acid (ABA) but also significantly regulated the hormonal pathway in the hormones such as jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA). This study provides a new idea to improve plant drought resistance through light quality regulation.
Epigenetic and Mental Diseases: The Role of Psychotherapy
Authors: Massoni Leonardo
Published: July 2024

It is well known that mental illness is often the result of genetic susceptibility combined with environmental factors. In this context, it is useful to consider the role that changes in DNA expression, known as epigenetic, can play in the development and progression of psychiatric disorders. Accordingly, psychotherapy, a form of pharmacological strategy that often targets dysfunctional emotions and behaviors, may also improve the symptoms of mental illness via epigenetic changes. This article reviews the current literature on epigenetic changes induced by psychotherapy in psychiatric disorders, pointing out encouraging findings for borderline personality disorder (BPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). It focuses on genes that are more commonly associated with epigenetic changes and paves the way for further research.
Bridging Artificial Intelligence and Neurological Signals (BRAINS): A Novel Framework for Electroencephalogram-Based Image Generation
Authors: Sokač Mateo , Mršić Leo , Balković Mislav , Brkljačić Maja
Published: July 2024

Recent advancements in cognitive neuroscience, particularly in electroencephalogram (EEG) signal processing, image generation, and brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), have opened up new avenues for research. This study introduces a novel framework, Bridging Artificial Intelligence and Neurological Signals (BRAINS), which leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to extract meaningful information from EEG signals and generate images. The BRAINS framework addresses the limitations of traditional EEG analysis techniques, which struggle with nonstationary signals, spectral estimation, and noise sensitivity. Instead, BRAINS employs Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and contrastive learning, which effectively handle time-series EEG data and recognize intrinsic connections and patterns. The study utilizes the MNIST dataset of handwritten digits as stimuli in EEG experiments, allowing for diverse yet controlled stimuli. The data collected are then processed through an LSTM-based network, employing contrastive learning and extracting complex features from EEG data. These features are fed into an image generator model, producing images as close to the original stimuli as possible. This study demonstrates the potential of integrating AI and EEG technology, offering promising implications for the future of brain–computer interfaces.
Donor Conditioning and Organ Pre-Treatment Prior to Kidney Transplantation: Reappraisal of the Available Clinical Evidence
Authors: Schnuelle Peter , Krämer Bernhard K.
Published: July 2024

Therapeutic measures aimed at optimising organ function prior to transplantation—whether by conditioning the donor after determination of brain death or by improving organ preservation after kidney removal—have the potential to enhance outcomes after transplantation. The particular advantage is that, unlike any optimised immunosuppressive therapy, a favourable effect can be achieved without side effects for the organ recipient. In recent years, several such measures have been tested in controlled clinical trials on large patient cohorts following kidney transplantation. Hypothermic pulsatile machine perfusion, in particular, has become the focus of interest, but interventions in the donor prior to organ removal, such as the administration of low-dose dopamine until the start of cold perfusion as an example of conditioning antioxidant therapy and therapeutic donor hypothermia in the intensive care unit after brain death confirmation, have also significantly reduced the frequency of dialysis after transplantation with far less effort and cost. With regard to benefits for graft survival, the database for all procedures is less clear and controversial. The aim of this review article is to re-evaluate the available clinical evidence from large multicentre controlled trials, which have also significantly influenced later meta-analyses, and to assess the significance for use in routine clinical practice.
The Outcomes of Surgical Pulmonary Embolectomy for Pulmonary Embolism: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rahouma Mohamed , Al-Thani Shaikha , Salem Haitham , Mahmoud Alzahraa , Khairallah Sherif , Shenouda David , Sultan Batool , Khalil Laila , Alomari Mohammad , Ali Mostafa , Makey Ian A. , Haney John C. , Mick Stephanie , El-Sayed Ahmed Magdy M.
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy, short- and long-term cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortalities and postoperative morbidities of surgical pulmonary embolectomy (SPE) for patients with massive or submassive pulmonary embolism. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify articles reporting SPE for pulmonary embolism. The outcomes included in-hospital and long-term mortality in addition to postoperative morbidities. The random effect inverse variance method was used. Cumulative meta-analysis, leave-one-out sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed. Results: Among the 1949 searched studies in our systematic literature search, 78 studies met our inclusion criteria, including 6859 cases. The mean age ranged from 42 to 65 years. The percentage of males ranged from 25.6% to 86.7%. The median rate of preoperative cardiac arrest was 27.6%. The percentage of contraindications to preoperative systemic thrombolysis was 30.4%. The preoperative systemic thrombolysis use was 11.5%. The in-hospital mortality was estimated to be 21.96% (95% CI: 19.21–24.98); in-hospital mortality from direct cardiovascular causes was estimated to be 16.05% (95% CI: 12.95–19.73). With a weighted median follow-up of 3.05 years, the late cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortality incidence rates were 0.39 and 0.90 per person-year, respectively. The incidence of pulmonary bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, surgical site bleeding, non-surgical site bleeding and wound complications was 0.62%, 4.70%, 4.84%, 5.80% and 7.2%, respectively. Cumulative meta-analysis showed a decline in hospital mortality for SPE from 42.86% in 1965 to 20.56% in 2024. Meta-regression revealed that the publication year and male sex were associated with lower in-hospital mortality, while preoperative cardiac arrest, the need for inotropes or vasopressors and preoperative mechanical ventilation were associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: This study demonstrates acceptable perioperative mortality rates and late cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortality in patients who undergo SPE for massive or submassive pulmonary embolism.
Polyuria in COVID-19 Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Rausch Johannes , Steinbicker Andrea U. , Friedrichson Benjamin , Flinspach Armin N. , Zacharowski Kai , Adam Elisabeth H. , Piekarski Florian
Published: July 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused an unprecedented number of patients requiring veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) therapy. Clinical polyuria was observed at our ECMO center during the pandemic. This study aims to investigate the incidence, potential causes, and implications of polyuria in COVID-19 patients undergoing VV ECMO therapy. Methods: Here, 68 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients receiving VV ECMO were stratified into the following two groups: polyuria (PU), characterized by an average urine output of ≥3000 mL/day within seven days following initiation, and non-polyuria (NPU), defined by <3000 mL/day. Polyuria in ECMO patients occurred in 51.5% (n = 35) within seven days after ECMO initiation. No significant difference in mortality was observed between PU and NPU groups (60.0% vs. 60.6%). Differences were found in the fluid intake (p < 0.01) and balance within 24 h (p = 0.01), creatinine (p < 0.01), plasma osmolality (p = < 0.01), lactate (p < 0.01), urea (p < 0.01), and sodium levels (p < 0.01) between the groups. Plasma osmolality increased (p < 0.01) after ECMO initiation during the observation period. Results: Diuresis and plasma osmolality increased during VV ECMO treatment, while mortality was not affected by polyuria. Conclusions: Polyuria does not appear to impact mortality. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and clinical implications in the context of VV ECMO therapy and COVID-19 management.
Monoclonal Antibodies in the Management of Inflammation in Wound Healing: An Updated Literature Review
Authors: Manzo Margiotta Flavia , Michelucci Alessandra , Fidanzi Cristian , Granieri Giammarco , Salvia Giorgia , Bevilacqua Matteo , Janowska Agata , Dini Valentina , Romanelli Marco
Published: July 2024

Chronic wounds pose a significant clinical challenge due to their complex pathophysiology and the burden of long-term management. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are emerging as a novel therapeutic option in managing difficult wounds, although comprehensive data on their use in wound care are lacking. This study aimed to explore existing scientific knowledge of mAbs in treating chronic wounds based on a rationale of direct inhibition of the main molecules involved in the underlying inflammatory pathophysiology. We performed a literature review excluding primary inflammatory conditions with potential ulcerative outcomes (e.g., hidradenitis suppurativa). mAbs were effective in treating wounds from 16 different etiologies. The most commonly treated conditions were pyoderma gangrenosum (treated with 12 different mAbs), lipoid necrobiosis, and cutaneous vasculitis (each treated with 3 different mAbs). Fourteen mAbs were analyzed in total. Rituximab was effective in 43.75% of cases (7/16 diseases), followed by tocilizumab (25%, 4/16 diseases), and both etanercept and adalimumab (18.75%, 3/16 conditions each). mAbs offer therapeutic potential for chronic wounds unresponsive to standard treatments. However, due to the complex molecular nature of wound healing, no single target molecule can be identified. Therefore, the use of mAbs should be considered as a translational approach for limited cases of multi-resistant conditions.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Uremic Encephalopathy: Identifying Key Imaging Patterns and Clinical Correlations
Authors: Greco Federico , Buoso Andrea , Cea Laura , D’Andrea Valerio , Bernetti Caterina , Beomonte Zobel Bruno , Mallio Carlo Augusto
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is essential in diagnosing neurological conditions, offering detailed insights into brain pathology. Uremic encephalopathy (UE) is a severe neurological disorder resulting from renal failure, characterized by cognitive impairments and brain abnormalities due to the accumulation of uremic toxins (UTs). Despite extensive research on UTs, there is a significant gap in the detailed characterization of MRI findings in UE patients. This study aims to bridge this gap by conducting a comprehensive literature review of cerebral MRI findings in UE. We hypothesize that specific MRI patterns correlate with the severity and clinical manifestations of UE, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and improving patient outcomes. Methods: A literature review was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The search terms included “uremic encephalopathy MRI”, “uremia and kidney failure MRI”, and “toxic and metabolic or acquired encephalopathies MRI”. The inclusion criteria were original articles on UE and MRI findings published in English. Results: Common MRI sequences include T1-weighted, T2-weighted, FLAIR, and DWI. Frequent MRI findings in UE are cytotoxic and vasogenic brain edema in regions such as the basal ganglia and periventricular white matter. Patterns like the “lentiform fork sign” and basal ganglia involvement are key indicators of UE. Conclusions: MRI plays a crucial role in diagnosing UE by identifying characteristic brain edema and specific patterns. A comprehensive diagnostic approach, incorporating clinical, laboratory, and imaging data, is essential for accurate diagnosis and management. The study calls for larger well-designed cohorts with long-term follow-up to improve the understanding and treatment of UE.
Spontaneous Sigmoid Colon Perforation and Ruptured Subserosal (“Zebra” Pattern) Small-Bowel Hematomas in Type IV Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report and a Short Review
Authors: Augustin Goran , Radin Iva , Bubalo Tomislav , Mavrek Josip , Pavlek Goran
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Spontaneous colonic perforations (SCPs) in teenagers and young adults are extremely rare. Common underlying conditions, such as colonic tumors and diverticulitis, are absent at that age. The vascular type of Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) is one cause of SCP. Methods: A 23-year-old male presented with an acute abdomen. The abdominal CT showed pneumoperitoneum with a large amount of fluid in the pelvis and abdomen, indicating hollow viscus rupture. At the level of the sigmoid colon, a defect in the intestinal wall and gas bubbles were seen. Results: Exploratory laparotomy confirmed sigmoid colon perforation without underlying pathology. Loop sigmoid colostomy was performed. Revisional surgery was undertaken due to clinical deterioration and intra-abdominal free fluid with small-bowel distension and air-liquid levels on abdominal CT 6 days later. Ileal subserosal hematomas were found, and many had ruptured, leaving a “zebra” pattern with lines of residual hematomas on the borders of subserosal hematomas. Genetic analysis confirmed vEDS. Conclusions: SCP in young adults or teenagers, in the absence of colonic disease, with clinical manifestations of connective tissue disorders should trigger genetic investigations for vEDS. SCP with a known vEDS could be treated with total colectomy to prevent further SCPs in the remaining colon. If segmental resections are performed, further SCP should be immediately excluded with any significant abdominal pain.
The Role of Pro-Inflammatory Chemokines CCL-1, 2, 4, and 5 in the Etiopathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Subjects from the Asir Region of Saudi Arabia: Correlation with Different Degrees of Obesity
Authors: Mir Mohammad Muzaffar , Alfaifi Jaber , Sohail Shahzada Khalid , Rizvi Syeda Fatima , Akhtar Md Tanwir , Alghamdi Mushabab Ayed Abdullah , Mir Rashid , Wani Javed Iqbal , Sabah Zia Ul , Alhumaydhi Fahad A. , Alremthi Fahad , AlQahtani AbdulElah Al Jarallah , Alharthi Muffarah Hamid , Adam Masoud Ishag Elkhalifa , Elfaki Imadeldin , Sonpol Hany M. A.
Published: July 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is becoming a major global health concern, especially in developing nations. The high prevalence of obesity and related diabetes cases are attributed to rapid economic progress, physical inactivity, the consumption of high-calorie foods, and changing lifestyles. Objectives: We investigated the roles of pro-inflammatory chemokines CCL1, 2, 4, and 5 in T2DM with varying levels of obesity in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: In total, 170 confirmed T2DM subjects and a normal control group were enrolled. Demographic data, serum levels of CCL-1, 2, 4, and 5, and biochemical indices were assessed in the subjects and control groups by standard procedures. Results: T2DM subjects were divided into four groups: A (normal body weight), B (overweight), C (obese), and D (highly obese). We observed that male and female control subjects had similar mean serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory chemokines CCL-1, 2, 4, and 5. T2DM subjects in all the four groups showed significantly higher levels of all the four chemokines compared to the controls, regardless of gender. In T2DM subjects with obesity and severe obesity, the rise was most significant. There was a progressive rise in the concentrations of CCL-1, 2, and 4 in T2DM subjects with increasing BMI. Serum CCL5 levels increased significantly in all T2DM subject groups. The increase in CCL5 was more predominant in normal-weight people, compared to overweight and obese T2DM subjects. Conclusions: Male and female control subjects had similar serum levels of pro-inflammatory chemokines CCL-1, 2, 4, and 5. The progressive rise in blood concentrations of three pro-inflammatory chemokines CCL-1, 2, and 4 in T2DM subjects with increasing BMI supports the idea that dyslipidemia and obesity contribute to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. Serum CCL5 levels increased significantly in all T2DM subject groups. The selective and more pronounced increase in CCL5 in the T2DM group with normal BMI, compared to subjects with varying degrees of obesity, was rather surprising. Further research is needed to determine if CCL5 underexpression in overweight and obese T2DM subjects is due to some unexplained counterbalancing processes.
Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health-Related Behaviours in Community Gardens in China: An Evaluation of a Natural Experiment
Authors: Chen Siyu , Chang Ying , Benton Jack S. , Chen Bing , Hu Hongchen , Lu Jing
Published: July 2024

There is little robust quantitative evidence on how community gardens impact on physical activity and other health-related behaviours. This natural experiment study aimed to examine the effects of a community garden within a Chinese neighbourhood on health-related behaviours during the COVID-19 epidemic. The study design was a repeat cross-sectional pre–post study, assessing differences between the non-epidemic period and epidemic period. Camera-based systematic observations were conducted at two locations within a community garden. A total of 180 h of video recordings were collected and coded by two researchers during a “non-epidemic” period when there were no COVID-19 restrictions (120 h) and the “epidemic” when COVID-19 restrictions were implemented (60 h). Observations of these video recordings assessed the total number of users, physical activities (Sedentary, Walking, Vigorous), social interactions (Connect), and people taking notice of the environment (Take Notice), followed by a breakdown of observed gender and age group. Data were analysed using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, comparing outcomes during the epidemic period and non-epidemic period. Results showed a significant increase in total number of users during the epidemic, particularly in females, older adults and children. Sedentary and moderate physical activities were significantly higher during the epidemic period. The increase in the total number of users of the community garden during the 2022 epidemic outbreak in Suzhou shows the importance of community gardens as a primary space for outdoor activities. This robust natural experiment study demonstrated that the community garden contributed more to physical activity, such as walking, but less to interactions between people (connecting) or people–place interactions (taking notice of the environment). More natural experiment research on community gardens like this is needed to better understand how the health and well-being benefits of community gardens can be maximized.
“I’m Silently Correcting Your Pronunciation of Sauna”: Language Attitudes and Ideologies in Finnish America
Authors: Karinen Kayleigh
Published: July 2024

This study examines attitudes and ideologies associated with the Finnish language and identity among successive generations of Finnish Americans in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Northern Minnesota, where Finnish is a postvernacular heritage language (HL). Employing ethnographic approaches including participant observation, narrative interviews, and the study of material analyzed using thematic analysis, I describe prevailing ideologies shaping perceptions of Finnishness. My findings highlight a pronounced pride and attachment to Finnish identity, which discursively and ideologically shape a sense of belonging and serve as a foundation for Finnish American identity formation. However, tensions emerge, particularly regarding the perceived pronunciation of Finnish words such as “sauna” and Finnish last names, indicating ideologies related to authenticity and purity. The evolution of terms like “Finlander” suggests generational change and reflects a history of friction with individuals not identifying as Finnish within the studied postvernacular speech communities.
Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Female-Biased Expression Analysis of Odorant Receptors in Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Huang Cong , Ou Xiaolan , Wang Yusheng , Zhou Yanan , Zhang Guifen , Liu Wanxue , Wan Fanghao , Jiang Hongbo , Zhang Yibo
Published: July 2024

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is a highly destructive invasive pest targeting Solanaceae crops. Its olfactory system plays a crucial role in host location, mate finding, and other behavioral activities. However, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the characterization of its chemosensory genes. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide identification of 58 odorant receptors (ORs) of T. absoluta. The identified ORs exhibit coding sequence (CDS) lengths ranging from 1062 bp to 1419 bp, encoding proteins of 354 to 473 amino acids. Gene structure analysis showed that the majority of these ORs consist of five, seven, eight, or nine exons, collectively representing 67% of the total ORs identified. Through chromosomal mapping, we identified several tandemly duplicate genes, including TabsOR12a, TabsOR12b, TabsOR12c, TabsOR21a, TabsOR21b, TabsOR34a, TabsOR34b, TabsOR34c, TabsOR62a, and TabsOR62b. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that six TabsORs were clustered within the lepidopteran sex pheromone receptor clade, while an expansion clade containing ten TabsORs resulted from tandem duplication events. Additionally, five TabsORs were classified into a specific OR clade in T. absoluta. Furthermore, through RNA-Seq and RT-qPCR analyses, we identified five TabsORs (TabsOR21a, TabsOR26a, TabsOR34a, TabsOR34c, and TabsOR36) exhibiting female-antennae-biased expression. Our study provides a valuable foundation to further investigations into the molecular and ecological functions of TabsORs, particularly in relation to oviposition behavior. These findings provide foundational data for the future exploration of the functions of female-biased expression OR genes in T. absoluta, thereby facilitating the further development of eco-friendly attract-and-kill techniques for the prevention and control of T. absoluta.
(S,Z)-1,4-Bis(benzyloxy)hexa-3,5-dien-2-ol
Authors: Iyoshi Akihiro , Miyazaki Yo , Tanaka Masakazu , Ueda Atsushi
Published: July 2024

Naturally occurring carbohydrates serve as useful building blocks, and various derivatives have been employed in natural product syntheses. For instance, some aldoses can be converted to 1,3-dienes via the Wittig reaction at the anomeric carbon, accompanied by the E2 elimination of the C3-alkoxy group. However, there are few examples of terminal 1,3-diene synthesis. We report the synthesis of (S,Z)-1,4-bis(benzyloxy)hexa-3,5-dien-2-ol, featuring a terminal 1,3-diene and chiral secondary alcohol, derived from 2,3,5-tri-O-benzyl-d-arabinofuranose with methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide and potassium tert-butoxide in a single step. The synthesized terminal 1,3-diene demonstrated effective reactivity in a cross-metathesis reaction with cis-1,4-diacetoxy-2-butene.