bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Aging on Tendon Biology, Biomechanics and Implications for Treatment Approaches
Authors: Kwan Ka Yu Carissa , Ng Ka Wai Kerry , Rao Ying , Zhu Chenxian , Qi Shengcai , Tuan Rocky S. , Ker Dai Fei Elmer , Wang Dan Michelle
Published: October 2023

Tendon aging is associated with an increasing prevalence of tendon injuries and/or chronic tendon diseases, such as tendinopathy, which affects approximately 25% of the adult population. Aged tendons are often characterized by a reduction in the number and functionality of tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs), fragmented or disorganized collagen bundles, and an increased deposition of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), leading to pain, inflammation, and impaired mobility. Although the exact pathology is unknown, overuse and microtrauma from aging are thought to be major causative factors. Due to the hypovascular and hypocellular nature of the tendon microenvironment, healing of aged tendons and related injuries is difficult using current pain/inflammation and surgical management techniques. Therefore, there is a need for novel therapies, specifically cellular therapy such as cell rejuvenation, due to the decreased regenerative capacity during aging. To augment the therapeutic strategies for treating tendon-aging-associated diseases and injuries, a comprehensive understanding of tendon aging pathology is needed. This review summarizes age-related tendon changes, including cell behaviors, extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, biomechanical properties and healing capacity. Additionally, the impact of conventional treatments (diet, exercise, and surgery) is discussed, and recent advanced strategies (cell rejuvenation) are highlighted to address aged tendon healing. This review underscores the molecular and cellular linkages between aged tendon biomechanical properties and the healing response, and provides an overview of current and novel strategies for treating aged tendons. Understanding the underlying rationale for future basic and translational studies of tendon aging is crucial to the development of advanced therapeutics for tendon regeneration.
A Systematic Review on Metabolomics Analysis in Hearing Impairment: Is It a Possible Tool in Understanding Auditory Pathologies?
Authors: Malesci Rita , Lombardi Martina , Abenante Vera , Fratestefano Federica , Del Vecchio Valeria , Fetoni Anna Rita , Troisi Jacopo
Published: October 2023

With more than 466 million people affected, hearing loss represents the most common sensory pathology worldwide. Despite its widespread occurrence, much remains to be explored, particularly concerning the intricate pathogenic mechanisms underlying its diverse phenotypes. In this context, metabolomics emerges as a promising approach. Indeed, lying downstream from molecular biology’s central dogma, the metabolome reflects both genetic traits and environmental influences. Furthermore, its dynamic nature facilitates well-defined changes during disease states, making metabolomic analysis a unique lens into the mechanisms underpinning various hearing impairment forms. Hence, these investigations may pave the way for improved diagnostic strategies, personalized interventions and targeted treatments, ultimately enhancing the clinical management of affected individuals. In this comprehensive review, we discuss findings from 20 original articles, including human and animal studies. Existing literature highlights specific metabolic changes associated with hearing loss and ototoxicity of certain compounds. Nevertheless, numerous critical issues have emerged from the study of the current state of the art, with the lack of standardization of methods, significant heterogeneity in the studies and often small sample sizes being the main limiting factors for the reliability of these findings. Therefore, these results should serve as a stepping stone for future research aimed at addressing the aforementioned challenges.
An Improved Method for Growing Primary Neurons on Electron Microscopy Grids Co-Cultured with Astrocytes
Authors: Kumar Ishika , Paudyal Anju , Kádková Anna , Stewart Michelle , Sørensen Jakob Balslev , Radecke Julika
Published: October 2023

With the increasing popularity of cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) in recent years, the quest to establish a method for growing primary neurons directly on electron microscopy grids (EM grids) has been ongoing. Here we describe a straightforward way to establish a mature neuronal network on EM grids, which includes formation of synaptic contacts. These synapses were thin enough to allow for direct visualization of small filaments such as SNARE proteins tethering the synaptic vesicle (SV) to the active zone plasma membrane on a Titan Krios without prior focused ion-beam milling.
Circulating miRNAs as Noninvasive Biomarkers for PDAC Diagnosis and Prognosis in Mexico
Authors: Álvarez-Hilario Lissuly Guadalupe , Salmerón-Bárcenas Eric Genaro , Ávila-López Pedro Antonio , Hernández-Montes Georgina , Aréchaga-Ocampo Elena , Herrera-Goepfert Roberto , Albores-Saavedra Jorge , Manzano-Robleda María del Carmen , Saldívar-Cerón Héctor Iván , Martínez-Frías Sandra Paola , Thompson-Bonilla María Del Rocío , Vargas Miguel , Hernández-Rivas Rosaura
Published: October 2023

Among malignant neoplasms, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the highest fatality rates due to its late detection. Therefore, it is essential to discover a noninvasive, early, specific, and sensitive diagnostic method. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are attractive biomarkers because they are accessible, highly specific, and sensitive. It is crucial to find miRNAs that could be used as possible biomarkers because PDAC is the eighth most common cause of cancer death in Mexico. With the help of microRNA microarrays, differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were found in PDAC tissues. The presence of these DEmiRNAs in the plasma of Mexican patients with PDAC was determined using RT-qPCR. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine the diagnostic capacity of these DEmiRNAs. Gene Expression Omnibus datasets (GEO) were employed to verify our results. The Prisma V8 statistical analysis program was used. Four DEmiRNAs in plasma from PDAC patients and microarray tissues were found. Serum samples from patients with PDAC were used to validate their overexpression in GEO databases. We discovered a new panel of the two miRNAs miR-222-3p and miR-221-3p that could be used to diagnose PDAC, and when miR-221-3p and miR-222-3p were overexpressed, survival rates decreased. Therefore, miR-222-3p and miR-221-3p might be employed as noninvasive indicators for the diagnosis and survival of PDAC in Mexican patients.
State of the Art on Two-Phase Non-Miscible Liquid/Gas Flow Transport Analysis in Radial Centrifugal Pumps Part B: Review of Experimental Investigations
Authors: Mansour Michael , Thévenin Dominique
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to summarize the results of several experimental investigations regarding two-phase liquid–gas flows in radial centrifugal pumps. The main objective is to combine the corresponding experimental results and collect the obtained knowledge to provide a better understanding of this configuration. The simultaneous transport of the two phases, the phase segregation, and the regions of safe or critical pump performance were described for a wide variety of pump configurations. This review covers single- and two-phase pumping conditions, performance degradation, pump breakdown, performance hysteresis, different flow regimes, flow regime maps, flow instabilities, and surging. This manuscript also considers the influence of employing different pump configurations on pump performance and flow regimes. This includes comparisons between closed and semi-open impellers, standard and increased tip clearance gaps, and running the pump with and without an inducer. Many of the results discussed have been published in a series of research papers. They were all collected, summarized, and compared systematically in the present review.
New Suptech Tool of the Predictive Generation for Insurance Companies—The Case of the European Market
Authors: Jagrič Timotej , Zdolšek Daniel , Horvat Robert , Kolar Iztok , Erker Niko , Merhar Jernej , Jagrič Vita
Published: October 2023

Financial innovation, green investments, or climate change are changing insurers’ business ecosystems, impacting their business behaviour and financial vulnerability. Supervisors and other stakeholders are interested in identifying the path toward deterioration in the insurance company’s financial health as early as possible. Suptech tools enable them to discover more and to intervene in a timely manner. We propose an artificial intelligence approach using Kohonen’s self-organizing maps. The dataset used for development and testing included yearly financial statements with 4058 observations for European composite insurance companies from 2012 to 2021. In a novel manner, the model investigates the behaviour of insurers, looking for similarities. The model forms a map. For the obtained groupings of companies from different geographical origins, a common characteristic was discovered regarding their future financial deterioration. A threshold defined using the solvency capital requirement (SCR) ratio being below 130% for the next year is applied to the map. On the test sample, the model correctly identified on average 86% of problematic companies and 79% of unproblematic companies. Changing the SCR ratio level enables differentiation into multiple map sections. The model does not rely on traditional methods, or the use of the SCR ratio as a dependent variable but looks for similarities in the actual insurer’s financial behaviour. The proposed approach offers grounds for a Suptech tool of predictive generation to support early detection of the possible future financial distress of an insurance company.
Automated Assessment of Comprehension Strategies from Self-Explanations Using LLMs
Authors: Nicula Bogdan , Dascalu Mihai , Arner Tracy , Balyan Renu , McNamara Danielle S.
Published: October 2023

Text comprehension is an essential skill in today’s information-rich world, and self-explanation practice helps students improve their understanding of complex texts. This study was centered on leveraging open-source Large Language Models (LLMs), specifically FLAN-T5, to automatically assess the comprehension strategies employed by readers while understanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) texts. The experiments relied on a corpus of three datasets (N = 11,833) with self-explanations annotated on 4 dimensions: 3 comprehension strategies (i.e., bridging, elaboration, and paraphrasing) and overall quality. Besides FLAN-T5, we also considered GPT3.5-turbo to establish a stronger baseline. Our experiments indicated that the performance improved with fine-tuning, having a larger LLM model, and providing examples via the prompt. Our best model considered a pretrained FLAN-T5 XXL model and obtained a weighted F1-score of 0.721, surpassing the 0.699 F1-score previously obtained using smaller models (i.e., RoBERTa).
The Structures and Bonding of Bismuth-Doped Boron Clusters: BiB4− and BiB5−
Authors: Choi Hyun Wook , Chen Wei-Jia , Kocheril G. Stephen , Yuan Dao-Fu , Wang Lai-Sheng
Published: October 2023

We present an investigation on the structures and chemical bonding of two Bi-doped boron clusters BiBn− (n = 4, 5) using photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical calculations. The electron affinities of BiB4 and BiB5 are measured to be 2.22(2) eV and 2.61(2) eV, respectively. Well-resolved photoelectron spectra are obtained and used to compare with theoretical calculations to verify the structures of BiB4− and BiB5−. Both clusters adopt planar structures with the Bi atom bonded to the periphery of the planar Bn moiety. Chemical bonding analyses reveal that the Bn moiety maintains σ and π double-aromaticity. The Bi atom is found to induce relatively small structural changes to the Bn moiety, very different from transition metal-doped boron clusters.
Useful Electrocardiographic Signs to Support the Prediction of Favorable Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Simon Andras , Pilecky David , Kiss Loretta Zsuzsa , Vamos Mate
Published: October 2023

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a cornerstone therapeutic opportunity for selected patients with heart failure. For optimal patient selection, no other method has been proven to be more effective than the 12-lead ECG, and hence ECG characteristics are extensively researched. The evaluation of particular ECG signs before the implantation may improve selection and, consequently, clinical outcomes. The definition of a true left bundle branch block (LBBB) seems to be the best starting point with which to select patients for CRT. Although there are no universally accepted definitions of LBBB, using the classical LBBB criteria, some ECG parameters are associated with CRT response. In patients with non-true LBBB or non-LBBB, further ECG predictors of response and non-response could be analyzed, such as QRS fractionation, signs of residual left bundle branch conduction, S-waves in V6, intrinsicoid deflection, or non-invasive estimates of Q-LV which are described in newer publications. The most important and recent study results of the topic are summarized and discussed in this current review.
The Correct Indication to Induce Labour in a Swiss Cantonal Hospital
Authors: Mbata Munachimso Kizito , Boesing Maria , Lüthi-Corridori Giorgia , Jaun Fabienne , Vetter Grit , Gröbli-Stäheli Jeanette , Leuppi-Taegtmeyer Anne B. , Frey Tirri Brigitte , Leuppi Jörg D.
Published: October 2023

Background: Induction of labour (IOL) is a way to stimulate the onset of labour using mechanical and pharmacological methods. IOL is one of the most frequently performed obstetric procedures worldwide. We aimed to determine compliance with guidelines and to investigate factors associated with the success of labour. Methods: In this retrospective, observational study, we analysed all induced deliveries in a Swiss hospital between January 2020 and December 2022. Results: Out of 1705 deliveries, 349 women underwent IOL, and 278 were included in this study, with an average age of 32 years (range 19–44 years). Most of the women were induced for missed deadlines (20.1%), the premature rupture of membranes (16.5%), and gestational diabetes mellitus (9.3%), and there was a good adherence to the guideline, especially with the indication and IOL monitoring (100%). However, an improvement needs to be made in measuring and documenting the Bishop score (41%). The success of labour was associated with multiparity (81.8% vs. 62.4% p = 0.001) and maternal non-obesity (73.4 vs. 54.1% p = 0.026). Conclusions: An improvement is needed in the measurement and documentation of the Bishop score. Further research is needed to confirm the found associations between parity, obesity, and the success of IOL.
Patients’ Buying Behavior for Non-Reimbursed Off-Loading Devices Used in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment—An Observational Study during COVID-19 Pandemic from a Romanian Physical Therapy Unit
Authors: Dragoi Iulia Iovanca , Popescu Florina Georgeta , Bowling Frank L. , Bondor Cosmina Ioana , Ionac Mihai
Published: October 2023

Diabetic foot ulcer non-reimbursed treatment depends on multiple factors, including the patient’s buying behaviors. Factors affecting buying behaviors for the removable off-loading devices are not completely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the patients’ buying behaviors of the removable off-loading devices and their influence on the DFU treatment outcomes remotely monitored during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this prospective observational study, 45 patients affected by diabetic peripheral neuropathy, with/without peripheral arterial disease, with foot ulcers treated with removable devices were remotely monitored. Prefabricated removable cast walkers, insoles, and therapeutic footwear were the proposed off-loading methods. Patients affected by high blood pressure (p = 0.018), peripheral arterial disease (p = 0.029), past amputations (p = 0.018), and ulcer on the left foot (p = 0.007) bought removable cast walkers. Rural provenience (p = 0.011) and male (p = 0.034) did not buy a removable walker. The healing rate was 69.4%, while the median healing time was 20 weeks. High blood pressure negatively influenced healing time (p = 0.020). Patients who bought the most efficient treatment method for DFUs were females from urban provenience, with amputation in the past, with peripheral arterial disease, and with high blood pressure.
Survival Impact of an On-Site Medicalization Program in the Control of COVID-19 Outbreaks in 11 Nursing Homes
Authors: Baron-Franco Bosco , Ollero-Baturone Manuel , Ternero-Vega Jara Eloísa , Nieto-Martín Maria Dolores , Moreno-Gaviño Lourdes , Conde-Guzmán Concepcion , Gutiérrez-Rivero Sonia , Rincón-Gómez Manuel , Díaz-Jiménez Pablo , Muñoz-Lopez Juan José , Giménez-Miranda Luis , Fernández-Nieto Celia , Bernabeu-Wittel Máximo
Published: October 2023

Background: The elderly admitted to nursing homes have especially suffered the havoc of the COVID-19 pandemic since most of them are not prepared to face such health problems. Methods: An innovative coordinated on-site medicalization program (MP) in response to a sizeable COVID-19 outbreak in three consecutive waves was deployed, sharing coordination and resources among primary care, the referral hospital, and the eleven residences. The objectives were providing the best possible medical care to residents in their environment, avoiding dehumanization and loneliness of hospital admission, and reducing the saturation of hospitals and the risk of spreading the infection. The main outcomes were a composite endpoint of survival or optimal palliative care (SOPC), survival, and referral to the hospital. Results: 587 of 1199 (49%) residents were infected, of whom 123 (21%) died. Patients diagnosed before the start of the MP presented SOPC, survival, and referrals to the hospital of 83%, 74%, and 22.4%, opposite to 96%, 84%, and 10.6% of patients diagnosed while the MP was set up. The SOPC was independently associated with an MP (OR 3.4 [1.6–7.2]). Conclusion: During the COVID-19 outbreak, a coordinated MP successfully obtained a better rate of SOPC while simultaneously reducing the need for hospital admissions, combining optimal medical management with a more compassionate and humanistic approach in older people.
Therapeutic Exercise Intervention Using Vibration Platforms for Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fabregat-Fernández Juan , Rodríguez-Pérez Vicente , Llamas-Ramos Rocío , López-Rodríguez Ana Felicitas , Seco-Calvo Jesús , Llamas-Ramos Inés
Published: October 2023

Diabetes generates a great impact on society, as well as a concern for health professionals due to its high and increasing prevalence; there are several studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of vibration platforms and their benefits at a physiological level. The aim of this study will be to analyze the decrease in glycosylated hemoglobin and glycemia levels after the use of whole-body vibration platforms and the possible inclusion of this therapeutic option within the usual treatments. This is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with parallel group design in a 1:1 ratio. The sample will be composed of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus in in the Plasencia area (Cáceres, Extremadura). Participants will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control group using a randomization list and will follow the inclusion criteria: type 2 diabetics between 50 and 60 years of age and not taking diabetes medication. All participants will undergo a determination of glycosylated hemoglobin, blood pressure, lipid profile, weight and height, and different functional tests such as Time Up and Go, 10 Meters Walk Test, and 5 Sit To Stand. The experimental group will perform a whole-body vibration intervention on an oscillating platform for 12 weeks with a weekly frequency of three nonconsecutive days and a duration of 12 min. The exercises will consist of 60 s of work and 60 s with rest. The control group will carry out their normal life insisting on the importance of glycemic controls before and after their daily physical exercise. This study has been registered at clinical.trial.org, ID: NCT 05968222. Whole-body vibration platforms have demonstrated their effectiveness in different pathologies such as stroke, fibromyalgia, sclerosis multiple, or Parkinson’s. For that reason, an improvement in glycemic and lipid values and body composition are expected in people with diabetes after a whole-body vibration intervention for 12 weeks’ duration. In addition, whole-body vibration platforms could be postulated as an alternative to usual treatments.
What a Tick Can Tell a Doctor: Using the Human-Biting Tick in the Clinical Management of Tick-Borne Disease
Authors: Rich Stephen M. , Siegel Eric L. , Xu Guang
Published: October 2023

With expanding concern about ticks, there is a general sense of uncertainty about the diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases. The diagnosis process is often based on clinical judgment in conjunction with laboratory testing and can be pathogen specific. Treatments may require disease-dependent approaches, and co-infections complicate or increase the severity of the clinical picture. Measuring exposure indices in the tick has become popular among providers and their patients, though this practice is not universally understood, and certain public health agencies have voiced concerns regarding interpretation and rigor of testing. As many providers subscribe to or recommend these services to aid in pretest risk and exposure assessments, this work sought to clarify the role of pathogen testing human-biting ticks as a complement to the diagnostic pipeline and raises points that must be addressed through future research and interdisciplinary conversation. Future work is needed to develop quality control oversight for tick testing laboratories. Studies on the integration of tick testing with human cases to see how these services affect health outcomes are also needed. Alongside these, improvements in the quality and availability of diagnostics are of critical importance.
Is Burning Mouth Syndrome Associated with Extraoral Dryness? A Systematic Review
Authors: Le Kim Devon Terga , DosSantos Marcos Fabio , Gazerani Parisa
Published: October 2023

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is characterized by a persistent intraoral burning sensation, often experienced by postmenopausal women. The etiology of BMS remains partially understood, and consequently, treatments remain suboptimal. Extraoral manifestations of BMS, such as extraoral dryness, are less studied. However, it has been suggested that the identification of the frequency and patterns of extraoral dryness and potential underlying mechanisms are essential to optimize treatment strategies and reduce the burden of disease. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review to provide existing evidence about extraoral dryness in BMS. The guidelines for the conduction and reporting of systematic reviews were followed. An electronic search was conducted in four major databases—PubMed, Web of Science, COCHRANE Library, and EBSCOhost—and the grey literature was assessed through Google Scholar. From each included article, information on extraoral dryness in BMS was extracted, and odds ratios were calculated for extraoral dryness among BMS patients compared with non-BMS controls. The findings demonstrated higher odds of the prevalence of extraoral dryness in BMS, which was found to a high degree in the lips, eyes, skin, and genitalia. The pattern of spread and locations of extraoral dryness propose a potential central mechanism. Based on our findings, we encourage the standardization of the assessment, recording, and reporting of the extraoral characteristics of BMS, including extraoral dryness, which can lead to better management strategies and enhance the quality of life of the affected patients.
Associations between Symptoms and Exercise Barriers in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Scott Hunter , Brown Nashira I. , Schleicher Erica A. , Oster Robert A. , McAuley Edward , Courneya Kerry S. , Anton Philip , Ehlers Diane K. , Phillips Siobhan M. , Rogers Laura Q.
Published: October 2023

Despite exercise benefits for cancer survivor health, most breast cancer survivors do not meet exercise recommendations. Few studies have examined associations between psychosocial symptoms and exercise barriers in this population. To improve physician exercise counseling by identifying survivors with high barriers in a clinical setting, associations between breast cancer symptoms (fatigue, mood, sleep quality) and exercise barriers were investigated. Physically inactive survivors (N = 320; average age 55 ± 8 years, 81% White, 77% cancer stage I or II) completed a baseline survey for a randomized physical activity trial and secondary analyses were performed. Potential covariates, exercise barriers interference score, Fatigue Symptom Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were assessed. Based on multiple linear regression analyses, only HADS Global (B = 0.463, p < 0.001) and number of comorbidities (B = 0.992, p = 0.01) were independently associated with total exercise barriers interference score, explaining 8.8% of the variance (R2 = 0.088, F(2,317) = 15.286, p < 0.001). The most frequent barriers to exercise for survivors above the HADS clinically important cut point included procrastination, routine, and self-discipline. These results indicate greater anxiety levels, depression levels, and comorbidities may be independently associated with specific exercise barriers. Health professionals should consider mood and comorbidities when evaluating survivors for exercise barriers, and tailoring exercise counseling.
3D-Printed Auxetic Skin Scaffold for Decreasing Burn Wound Contractures at Joints
Authors: Park Jung-Kyu , Kim Kun Woo , Kim Hyun Joo , Choi Seon Young , Son Kuk Hui , Lee Jin Woo
Published: October 2023

For patients with severe burns that consist of contractures induced by fibrous scar tissue formation, a graft must adhere completely to the wound bed to enable wound healing and neovascularization. However, currently available grafts are insufficient for scar suppression owing to their nonuniform pressure distribution in the wound area. Therefore, considering the characteristics of human skin, which is omnidirectionally stretched via uniaxial stretching, we proposed an auxetic skin scaffold with a negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) for tight adherence to the skin scaffold on the wound bed site. Briefly, a skin scaffold with the NPR effect was fabricated by creating a fine pattern through 3D printing. Electrospun layers were also added to improve adhesion to the wound bed. Fabricated skin scaffolds displayed NPR characteristics (−0.5 to −0.1) based on pulling simulation and experiment. Finger bending motion tests verified the decreased marginal forces (<50%) and deformation (<60%) of the NPR scaffold. In addition, the filling of human dermal fibroblasts in most areas (>95%) of the scaffold comprising rarely dead cells and their spindle-shaped morphologies revealed the high cytocompatibility of the developed scaffold. Overall, the developed skin scaffold may help reduce wound strictures in the joints of patients with burns as it exerts less pressure on the wound margin.
18F-FDG PET/MRI and 18F-FDG PET/CT for the Management of Gynecological Malignancies: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Allahqoli Leila , Hakimi Sevil , Laganà Antonio Simone , Momenimovahed Zohre , Mazidimoradi Afrooz , Rahmani Azam , Fallahi Arezoo , Salehiniya Hamid , Ghiasvand Mohammad Matin , Alkatout Ibrahim
Published: October 2023

Objective: Positron emission tomography with 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18] fluoro- D-glucose integrated with computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (18F-FDG PET/MRI) has emerged as a promising tool for managing various types of cancer. This review study was conducted to investigate the role of 18F- FDG PET/CT and FDG PET/MRI in the management of gynecological malignancies. Search strategy: We searched for relevant articles in the three databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Selection criteria: All studies reporting data on the FDG PET/CT and FDG PET MRI in the management of gynecological cancer, performed anywhere in the world and published exclusively in the English language, were included in the present study. Data collection and analysis: We used the EndNote software (EndNote X8.1, Thomson Reuters) to list the studies and screen them on the basis of the inclusion criteria. Data, including first author, publication year, sample size, clinical application, imaging type, and main result, were extracted and tabulated in Excel. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of the modalities were extracted and summarized. Main results: After screening 988 records, 166 studies published between 2004 and 2022 were included, covering various methodologies. Studies were divided into the following five categories: the role of FDG PET/CT and FDG-PET/MRI in the management of: (a) endometrial cancer (n = 30); (b) ovarian cancer (n = 60); (c) cervical cancer (n = 50); (d) vulvar and vagina cancers (n = 12); and (e) gynecological cancers (n = 14). Conclusions: FDG PET/CT and FDG PET/MRI have demonstrated potential as non-invasive imaging tools for enhancing the management of gynecological malignancies. Nevertheless, certain associated challenges warrant attention.
Wave–Tide Interaction by Typhoon Ampil on Wave and Storm Surge in the Changjiang River Estuary and Its Adjacent Coastal Areas
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Ji Qiyan , Xie Minghong , Wu You , Tian Yilun
Published: October 2023

The study used the SCHISM ocean model combined with the WWM III wind wave model to quantify the interaction between wind waves and tides in the coastal zone of the Changjiang River Estuary and its adjacent areas. The wave and storm surge during Typhoon Ampil, which made landfall in July 2018 in Shanghai, were simulated by using the Climate Forecast System Version 2 (CFSv2) and Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) latest reanalysis (ERA5) wind dataset from 1 July to 31 July. Model results with CFSv2 forcing show better performance in terms of significant wave height and storm surge than those with ERA5 forcing. To investigate the interactions between waves, water levels, currents, and their combined effects on significant wave and surge variations, six numerical sensitivity experiments were designed according to the different coupling methods between SCHISM and WWMIII. The research shows that in coastal areas with water depths of less than 10 m, waves are affected by water levels and currents. The differences in the effect on significant wave height between wave-tide coupling and one-way coupling with water levels and currents are negligible. Wave setup is an important physical term which cannot be ignored during the variations of storm surge caused by Typhoon Ampil. The contributions of wave set up were concentrated in coastal areas with water depths less than 10 m. The peak wave setup occurred in the Changjiang River Estuary, reaching 0.15 m. In Xiangshan Bay and Sanmen Bay, wave radiation stress makes the proportion of wave setup to the total surge reached more than 30%. The consideration of wave-tide interaction can effectively improve the accuracy of numerical wave and storm surge simulations, which can provide more accurate hindcasts of wave and storm surge variations in the Changjiang River Estuary and its adjacent coastal areas.
Holocene Evolution of the Pearl River Delta: Mapping Integral Isobaths and Delta Progradation
Authors: Tang Yongjie , Zheng Zhuo , Huang Kangyou , Chen Cong , Chen Zhen , Lu Hongyu , Wu Weisheng , Lin Xiaoming , Zhang Xianhe , Li Hongwei
Published: October 2023

The Pearl River Delta (PRD, China) has undergone complex geological development within a multi-island faulted basin, shaped by the interplay of regional tectonic movements, Quaternary sea-level fluctuations, and fluvial-marine interactions. Despite a great number of studies on the Holocene sedimentary sequences and spatial differences of lithofacies and environments, scant attention has been paid to the overarching human influence on deltaic evolution and coastline modifications since the Neolithic epoch. To further elucidate the spatial variation in Holocene sedimentation and its underlying basement topography shaped during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), we compiled a comprehensive dataset incorporating borehole data from over 2800 cores (the maximum depth can reach 92.5 m) within the PRD. Subsequently, high-resolution isobath maps of Quaternary deltaic deposits were generated, offering unprecedented insights into sediment distribution. This dataset facilitated a nuanced reconstruction of pre-Holocene topography, revealing a zone characterized by elongated, deep-incised valleys governed by NW-SE fault orientations. Further, we delineated coastline shifts since the period of maximum Holocene transgression (~7000 years BP), contributing to an enhanced understanding of the formation and evolutionary patterns of the delta and river network oscillations. Our findings illuminate an increasing anthropogenic impact on the rate of fluvial sedimentation and land growth, particularly accentuated over the last two millennia, favoring deltaic accretion.
Offshore Wind Farms in South Korea: A Potential Site for Scallop Culture
Authors: Lee Dae-Won , Oh Sung-Yong , Park Jordan Jun Chul , Jung Yun-Hwan , Kim Han-Jun , Choi Dong Mun , Choi Young-Ung , Han Jeonghoon
Published: October 2023

Owing to the constant wind generated by the vast ocean, energy production from offshore wind farms (OWFs) plays an important role in the expansion of renewable energy. However, areas close to large wind farms are often left unutilized, and aquaculture farmers find it difficult to efficiently utilize these unoccupied spaces due to limited information showing the feasibility of utilization of OWFs as potential scallop culture sites. To analyze whether the two scallop species Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri) and bay scallop (Argopecten irradians) can be grown at OWFs of Gochang and Buan, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea, the growth characteristics of the two scallop species were analyzed and compared with those grown at the Tongyeong Megacosm Test Station. The results clearly showed that the growth of scallops at the OWF was significantly lower with respect to the shell lengths, height, width, and weight, compared to those grown at the megacosm station. However, scallops grown at the OWF still showed consistent growth in parallel with those grown at the megacosm test station. Yet, there was a species-specific mortality rate between the two sites. In addition, our results suggest that temperature may be a key determinant of the growth of C. farreri and A. irradians. Overall, this study contributes to establishing a foundation for the stable and continuous farming of marine bivalves (e.g., clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops) in OWF areas.
Differential Transcriptional Responses of Human Granulocytes to Fungal Infection with Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Klassert Tilman E. , Hölzer Martin , Zubiria-Barrera Cristina , Bethge Julia , Klaile Esther , Müller Mario M. , Marz Manja , Slevogt Hortense
Published: October 2023

Neutrophils are critical phagocytic cells in innate immunity, playing a significant role in defending against invasive fungal pathogens. This study aimed to explore the transcriptional activation of human neutrophils in response to different fungal pathogens, including Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, compared to the bacterial pathogen Escherichia coli. We identified distinct transcriptional profiles and stress-related pathways in neutrophils during fungal infections, highlighting their functional diversity and adaptability. The transcriptional response was largely redundant across all pathogens in immune-relevant categories and cytokine pathway activation. However, differences in the magnitude of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were observed, with A. fumigatus inducing a lower transcriptional effect compared to C. albicans and E. coli. Notably, specific gene signatures associated with cell death were differentially regulated by fungal pathogens, potentially increasing neutrophil susceptibility to autophagy, pyroptosis, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex immunological responses of neutrophils during fungal infections, offering new avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, particularly in the management of invasive fungal diseases.
Seasonal and Spatial Dynamics of Fungal Diversity and Communities in the Intertidal Zones of Qingdao, China
Authors: Li Wei , Li Qi , Pan Zhihui , Burgaud Gaëtan , Ma Hehe , Zheng Yao , Wang Mengmeng , Cai Lei
Published: October 2023

Intertidal zones comprise diverse habitats and directly suffer from the influences of human activities. Nevertheless, the seasonal fluctuations in fungal diversity and community structure in these areas are not well comprehended. To address this gap, samples of seawater and sediment were collected seasonally from the estuary and swimming beaches of Qingdao’s intertidal areas in China and were analyzed using a metabarcoding approach targeting ITS2 rDNA regions. Compared to the seawater community dominated by Ciliophora and Agaricomycetes, the sediment community was rather dominated by Dothideomycetes and Eurotiomycetes. Furthermore, the seawater community shifted with the seasons but not with the locations, while the sediment community shifted seasonally and spatially, with a specific trend showing that Cladosporium, Alternaria, and Aureobasidium occurred predominantly in the estuarine habitats during winter and in the beach habitats during spring. These spatiotemporal shifts in fungal communities’ composition were supported by the PERMANOVA test and could be explained partially by the environmental variables checked, including temperature, salinity, and total organic carbon. Unexpectedly, the lowest fungal richness was observed in the summer sediments from two swimming beaches which were attracting a high influx of tourists during summer, leading to a significant anthropogenic influence. Predicted trophic modes of fungal taxa exhibited a seasonal pattern with an abundance of saprotrophic fungi in the summer sediments, positively correlating to the temperature, while the taxa affiliated with symbiotroph and pathotroph-saprotroph occurred abundantly in the winter and spring sediments, respectively. Our results demonstrate the space–time shifts in terms of the fungal community, as well as the trophic modes in the intertidal region, providing in-depth insights into the potential influence of environmental factors and human activity on intertidal mycobiomes.
Molecular and Functional Analyses of Characterized Sesquiterpene Synthases in Mushroom-Forming Fungi
Authors: Wang Shengli , Chen Ruiqi , Yuan Lin , Zhang Chenyang , Liang Dongmei , Qiao Jianjun
Published: October 2023

Sesquiterpenes are a type of abundant natural product with widespread applications in several industries. They are biosynthesized by sesquiterpene synthases (STSs). As valuable and abundant biological resources, mushroom-forming fungi are rich in new sesquiterpenes and STSs, which remain largely unexploited. In the present study, we collected information on 172 STSs from mushroom-forming fungi with experimentally characterized products from the literature and sorted them to develop a dataset. Furthermore, we analyzed and discussed the phylogenetic tree, catalytic products, and conserved motifs of STSs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the STSs were clustered into four clades. Furthermore, their cyclization reaction mechanism was divided into four corresponding categories. This database was used to predict 12 putative STS genes from the edible fungi Flammulina velutipes. Finally, three FvSTSs were selected to experimentally characterize their functions. FvSTS03 predominantly produced Δ-cadinol and FvSTS08 synthesized β-barbatene as the main product; these findings were consistent with those of the functional prediction analysis. A product titer of 78.8 mg/L β-barbatene was achieved in Saccharomyces cerevisiae via metabolic engineering. Our study findings will help screen or design STSs from fungi with specific product profiles as functional elements for applications in synthetic biology.
A Feasibility Study of CT-Guided Osteosynthesis under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Lavigne Joris , Stacoffe Nicolas , Heidelberg Damien , Wagner Philippe , Pialat Jean-Baptiste
Published: October 2023

Background: Evaluation of local anesthesia for perioperative pain control in patients undergoing CT-guided percutaneous osteosynthesis. Methods: A total of 12 patients underwent percutaneous osteosynthesis under local anesthesia. Intraoperative pain was assessed after the procedure using numerical rating scale (NRS). Patients were also asked to rate their overall experience of the operation using the following scale: “highly comfortable, comfortable, hardly comfortable, uncomfortable” and, finally, “Would you be willing to repeat this intervention again under the same conditions if necessary?” Patients were also clinically followed up at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months using the EQ5D5L scale to assess their pain and quality of life. Results: Patients underwent percutaneous osteosynthesis for osteoporotic (n = 9), pathological (n = 2), or traumatic fractures (n = 1), including the thoraco-lumbar spine (n = 8) or the pelvis (n = 4). The mean of NRS value experienced during the procedure was 3.4/10 (0–8). The overall feeling was highly comfortable (42%), comfortable (50%), hardly comfortable (8%), and uncomfortable (0%). Finally, 75% of patients answered “YES” to the question of repeating the operation under the same conditions if necessary. At follow-up, a significant reduction in pain was observed postoperatively. According to the EQ5D5L scale, there was a significant improvement in pain, mobility, self-activities, autonomy, and perceived quality of life at 3 and 6 months. Conclusion: Radiological percutaneous osteosynthesis is an effective technique that can be performed under local anesthesia with a comfortable experience for most of the patients.
Potential Economic, Social and Environmental Contribution Study of Urban Agriculture Based on Five Key Features Identified through Past Studies
Authors: Kafle Arun , Hopeward James , Myers Baden
Published: October 2023

Urban agriculture (UA), for recreational (gardening) and or commercial (farming) purposes, is commonly practised around the world, and uptake is increasing globally. There are many claims regarding UA’s social, economic and environmental benefits with scant exploratory research. The overarching objective of this paper is to access the potential economic, social and environmental contribution of UA based on five major features that have previously been shown to be critical to optimising the benefits of UA: area, purpose (gardening or commercial), crop value (mixed, mid to high), mechanisation level (none to partial mechanisation) and market mechanism (retail versus wholesale) based on past studies focusing on Adelaide, Australia and the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. Including the reviewed 15 past studies that closely reflect the above five features of UA, most UA research has focused on the social benefits and potential cost savings of growing food in cities, with few studies interrogating its economic viability, employment potential or opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There is a clear need to study UA using a systems approach to ensure viability, replicability and sustainability. Real-world case studies focusing on diverse settings will help to characterise key features and corrective actions for improving overall sustainability.
An Overview of Challenges for the Future of Hydrogen
Authors: Ahad Md , Bhuiyan Md , Sakib Ahmed , Becerril Corral Alfredo , Siddique Zahed
Published: October 2023

Hydrogen’s wide availability and versatile production methods establish it as a primary green energy source, driving substantial interest among the public, industry, and governments due to its future fuel potential. Notable investment is directed toward hydrogen research and material innovation for transmission, storage, fuel cells, and sensors. Ensuring safe and dependable hydrogen facilities is paramount, given the challenges in accident control. Addressing material compatibility issues within hydrogen systems remains a critical focus. Challenges, roadmaps, and scenarios steer long-term planning and technology outlooks. Strategic visions align actions and policies, encompassing societal and ecological dimensions. The confluence of hydrogen’s promise with material progress holds the prospect of reshaping our energy landscape sustainably. Forming collective future perspectives to foresee this emerging technology’s potential benefits is valuable. Our review article comprehensively explores the forthcoming challenges in hydrogen technology. We extensively examine the challenges and opportunities associated with hydrogen production, incorporating CO2 capture technology. Furthermore, the interaction of materials and composites with hydrogen, particularly in the context of hydrogen transmission, pipeline, and infrastructure, are discussed to understand the interplay between materials and hydrogen dynamics. Additionally, the exploration extends to the embrittlement phenomena during storage and transmission, coupled with a comprehensive examination of the advancements and hurdles intrinsic to hydrogen fuel cells. Finally, our exploration encompasses addressing hydrogen safety from an industrial perspective. By illuminating these dimensions, our article provides a panoramic view of the evolving hydrogen landscape.
An Analytical Method for Mechanical Analysis of Offshore Pipelines during Lifting Operation
Authors: Wang Zhongxiao , Chen Yongxin , Gao Qingyou , Li Fengming
Published: October 2023

The lifting operation of offshore pipelines is an important step in ocean pipeline engineering. An effective analytical method is developed for investigating the mechanical properties of the pipeline based on mechanical, physical, and geometric relationships. By using the shooting and the secant methods to transform the boundary value problem into an initial value one and then solving them with the Runge–Kutta method, the deformation and mechanical properties of the pipeline are calculated. Furthermore, based on the Det Norske Veritas (DNV) offshore standard, the mechanical properties of the pipeline are checked. The finite element method (FEM) by Orcaflex is employed to verify the accuracy of the analytical model. The effects of some factors such as the current velocity and lifting point position on the mechanical properties of the pipeline are analyzed based on the analytical model. The results indicate that the change in current velocity during the lifting process has a minimal effect on the pipeline, but the change in lifting point position significantly affects the deformation and mechanical properties of the pipeline.