bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reply to Cione et al. Comment on “Iida et al. Development of a New Method for Calculating Intraocular Lens Power after Myopic Laser In Situ Keratomileusis by Combining the Anterior–Posterior Ratio of the Corneal Radius of the Curvature with the Double-K Method. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 522”
Authors: Iida Yoshihiko , Shimizu Kimiya , Shoji Nobuyuki
Published: May 2022

We appreciate the insightful comments [...]
The Impact of Different Ventilatory Strategies on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Rocans Rihards P. , Ozolina Agnese , Battaglini Denise , Bine Evita , Birnbaums Janis V. , Tsarevskaya Anastasija , Udre Sintija , Aleksejeva Marija , Mamaja Biruta , Pelosi Paolo
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The aim was to investigate the impact of different ventilator strategies (non-invasive ventilation (NIV); invasive MV with tracheal tube (TT) and with tracheostomy (TS) on outcomes (mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay) in patients with COVID-19. We also assessed the impact of timing of percutaneous tracheostomy and other risk factors on mortality. Methods: The retrospective cohort included 868 patients with severe COVID-19. Demographics, MV parameters and duration, and ICU mortality were collected. Results: MV was provided in 530 (61.1%) patients, divided into three groups: NIV (n = 139), TT (n = 313), and TS (n = 78). Prevalence of tracheostomy was 14.7%, and ICU mortality was 90.4%, 60.2%, and 30.2% in TT, TS, and NIV groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Tracheostomy increased the chances of survival and being discharged from ICU (OR 6.3, p < 0.001) despite prolonging ICU stay compared to the TT group (22.2 days vs. 10.7 days, p < 0.001) without differences in survival rates between early and late tracheostomy. Patients who only received invasive MV had higher odds of survival compared to those receiving NIV in ICU prior to invasive MV (OR 2.7, p = 0.001). The odds of death increased with age (OR 1.032, p < 0.001), obesity (1.58, p = 0.041), chronic renal disease (1.57, p = 0.019), sepsis (2.8, p < 0.001), acute kidney injury (1.7, p = 0.049), multiple organ dysfunction (3.2, p < 0.001), and ARDS (3.3, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Percutaneous tracheostomy compared to MV via TT significantly increased survival and the rate of discharge from ICU, without differences between early or late tracheostomy.
Validation of a Classification Algorithm for Chronic Kidney Disease Based on Health Information Systems
Authors: Ferraro Pietro Manuel , Agabiti Nera , Angelici Laura , Cascini Silvia , Bargagli Anna Maria , Davoli Marina , Gambaro Giovanni , Marino Claudia
Published: May 2022

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition, characterized by high burden of comorbidities, mortality and costs. There is a need for developing and validating algorithm for the diagnosis of CKD based on administrative data. Methods: We validated our previously developed algorithm that used administrative data of the Lazio Region (central Italy) to define the presence of CKD on the basis of serum creatinine measurements performed between 2012 and 2015 at the Policlinico Gemelli Hospital. CKD and advanced CKD were defined according to eGFR (<60 and <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV/NPV) were computed. Results: During the time span of the study, 30,493 adult participants residing in the Lazio Region had undergone at least 2 serum creatinine measurements separated by at least 3 months. CKD and advanced CKD were present in 11.1% and 2.0% of the study population, respectively. The performance of the algorithm in the identification of CKD was high, with a sensitivity of 51.0%, specificity of 96.5%, PPV of 64.5% and NPV of 94.0%. Using advanced CKD, sensitivity was 62.9% (95% CI 59.0, 66.8), specificity 98.1%, PPV 40.4% and NPV 99.3%. Conclusion: The algorithm based on administrative data has high specificity and adequate performance for more advanced CKD; it can be used to obtain estimates of prevalence of CKD and to perform epidemiological research.
Surgery as an Emotional Strain: An Observational Study in Patients Undergoing Elective Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Manteufel Ines , Knott Agnes , Kousoulas Lampros , Werthmann Paul Georg , Storz Maximilian Andreas , Huber Roman , Müller Alexander
Published: May 2022

Recent research suggests an impact of psychological distress on postoperative outcomes in orthopedic and neurosurgery. It is widely unknown whether patients’ mood might affect the postoperative outcome and complication rate in colorectal surgery. Over a period of 22 months, a monocentric, observational study among patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery without the creation of an ostomy was conducted. Patients were asked to fill in a standardized multi-dimensional mood questionnaire (MDMQ) preoperatively as well as on the third, sixth, and ninth postoperative days to assess mood, wakefulness, and arousal. The results of 80 patients (51% male, mean age 59 years) were analyzed. Almost half of the patients (58%) developed postoperative complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification (Grade I 14%, Grade II 30%, Grade III 9%, Grade IV 3%). Patients’ mood increased continually from the preoperative day to the ninth postoperative day. Patients’ wakefulness decreased initially (pre- to third postoperative day) and increased again in the further course. Patients’ arousal decreased pre- to postoperatively. Neither preoperative mood, nor arousal or wakefulness of patients showed a clear association with the development of postoperative complications. In conclusion, preoperative psychological distress measured by MDMQ did not affect the postoperative complication rate of patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery.
PTSD Symptoms and Coping with COVID-19 Pandemic among Treatment-Seeking Veterans: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Letica-Crepulja Marina , Stevanović Aleksandra , Palaić Diana , Vidović Iva , Frančišković Tanja
Published: May 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to examine post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom levels and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic among treatment-seeking veterans with pre-existing PTSD. Method: A cohort of 176 male treatment-seeking veterans with pre-existing PTSD during the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown (T1) and 132 participants from the same cohort one year after the onset of the pandemic (T2) participated in a longitudinal study. All participants responded to a COVID-19-related questionnaire and the following measures: the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5 (LEC-5), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) and the Brief COPE. Results: The intensity of overall PTSD symptoms, avoidance symptoms and negative alterations in cognitions and mood was lower at T2. PTSD symptoms were not significantly correlated with SARS-CoV-2 potentially traumatic events (PTE) at T2. Veterans scored higher on emotion-focused and problem-focused coping than on dysfunctional coping. Conclusions: Veterans with pre-existing PTSD who were receiving long-term treatment coped with COVID-19 stressors without the effects of retraumatization and a consequent worsening of PTSD symptoms.
Proteomic Insight into the Role of Exosomes in Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy Development
Authors: Nair Gopa Kumar Gopinadhan , Pollalis Dimitrios , Wren Jonathan D. , Georgescu Constantin , Sjoelund Virginie , Lee Sun Young
Published: May 2022

Purpose: To characterize vitreous humor (VH) exosomes and to explore their role in the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) using mass spectrometry-based proteome profiling. Methods: Exosomes were isolated from undiluted VH from patients with retinal detachment (RD) with various stages of PVR (n = 9), macular hole (MH; n = 5), or epiretinal membrane (ERM; n = 5) using differential ultracentrifugation. The exosomal size, morphology, and exosome markers were analyzed using a nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and an exosome detection antibody array. The tryptic fragment sequencing of exosome-contained proteins was performed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and a Thermo Lumos Fusion Tribrid Orbitrap mass spectrometer. The pathway analysis of the MS data was performed. Results: The number of exosome particles were significantly increased only in the RD with severe PVR group compared with the control groups and the RD without PVR or with mild PVR groups. Of 724 exosome proteins identified, 382 were differentially expressed (DE) and 176 were uniquely present in PVR. Both DE proteins and exosome proteins that were only present in PVR were enriched in proteins associated with previously known key pathways related to PVR development, including reactive retinal gliosis, pathologic cellular proliferation, inflammation, growth of connective tissues, and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). The SPP1, CLU, VCAN, COL2A1, and SEMA7A that are significantly upregulated in PVR were related to the tissue remodeling. Conclusions: Exosomes may play a key role in mediating tissue remodeling along with a complex set of pathways involved in PVR development.
Physical Activity, Positive and Negative Symptoms of Psychosis, and General Psychopathology among People with Psychotic Disorders: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Swora Ernest , Boberska Monika , Kulis Ewa , Knoll Nina , Keller Jan , Luszczynska Aleksandra
Published: May 2022

Objective: Existing reviews provided evidence for the associations between higher physical activity (PA) and lower negative symptoms of psychosis among people with schizophrenia. This meta-analysis goes beyond existing syntheses and investigates associations between PA, positive and negative symptoms of psychosis, as well as symptoms of general psychopathology (referring mostly to cognitive functioning) among people with schizophrenia, but also other psychotic disorders. The moderating roles of the type of diagnosis and the type of exercise intervention were explored. Methods: The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018118236). Six electronic databases were searched; n = 27 experimental and observational studies were included, and psychotic symptoms-related data were recorded in one direction (higher values indicate better mental health and lower symptomatology). Results: Higher levels of PA (or participating in PA interventions) were associated with better mental health, that is, lower levels of positive symptoms (all studies: r = 0.170; experimental studies: SMD = 0.677), negative symptoms (all studies: r = 0.214; experimental studies: SMD = 0.838), and general psychopathology (all studies: r = 0.451; experimental studies: SMD = 1.511). The type of diagnosis (schizophrenia vs. other psychotic disorders) did not moderate these associations. Conclusions: We found a consistent pattern of associations between higher levels of PA and lower positive, negative, and general psychopathology symptoms in people with schizophrenia and those with other psychotic disorders.
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Multiple Myeloma Patients across Different Regimens: Role of Procoagulant Microparticles and Cytokine Release
Authors: Gidaro Antonio , Manetti Roberto , Delitala Alessandro , Soloski Mark , Lambertenghi Deliliers Giorgio , Castro Dante , Soldini Davide , Castelli Roberto
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by a high prevalence of thrombotic complications. Microvesicles (MVs) are small membrane vesicles released from activated cells, and they may potentially contribute to thrombosis. Methods: We have evaluated the plasma levels of MVs and cytokines (IL-10, IL-17, and TGF-β in MM and Watch and Wait Smoldering MM (WWSMM) from patients and related them to thrombotic complications. The secondary aim was to assess the impact of ongoing therapy on MV and on cytokine levels. Result: 92 MM and 31 WWSMM were enrolled, and 14 (12%) experienced a thrombotic episode. Using univariate analysis, TGF-β and MV were significantly higher in patients with thrombotic events (p = 0.012; p = 0.008, respectively). Utilizing a Cox proportional hazard model, we confirmed this difference (TGF-β p = 0.003; Odds ratio 0.001, 95% CI 0–0.003 and MV p = 0.001; Odds ratio 0.003, 95% CI 0.001–0.005). Active treatment management displayed higher levels of MV (p < 0.001) and lower levels of glomerular filtration-rate (p < 0.001), IL-17 (p < 0.001) as compared to the WWSMM group. The TGF-β values of immunomodulatory derivatives patients were lower in the WWSMM (p < 0.001) and Dexamethasone/Bortezomib subgroup (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The increased levels of MVs in active regimens add insight into the mechanisms of hypercoagulation in MM. In addition, a role for cytokine-related thrombosis is also suggested.
Efficacy of Different Doses of Daprodustat for Anemic Non-dialysis Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fadlalmola Hammad , Al-Sayaghi Khaled , Al-Hebshi Abdulqader , Aljohani Maher , Albalawi Mohammed , Kashari Ohoud , Alem Alaa , Alrasheedy Mariam , Balelah Saud , Almuteri Faten , Alyamani Arwa , Alwasaidi Turki
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Anemia affects about 40% of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Daprodustat improves serum hemoglobin in anemic patients by inhibiting prolyl hydroxylase of hypoxia-inducible factor. We conducted a network meta-analysis to investigate the direct and indirect effects of different doses of daprodustat compared to each other and erythropoietin and placebo. (2) Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus, for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) reporting data about different doses of daprodustat for anemia in nondialysis of CKDs. (3) Results: We eventually included five RCTs with a total sample size of 4566 patients. We found that the higher the dose of daprodustat, the greater the change in serum total iron binding capacity (TIBC), hemoglobin, and ferritin from baseline. Compared to placebo, daprodustat 25–30 mg was associated with the highest significant increase in serum hemoglobin (MD = 3.27, 95% CI = [1.89; 4.65]), a decrease in serum ferritin (MD = −241.77, 95% CI = [−365.45; −118.09]) and increase in serum TIBC (MD = 18.52, 95% CI = [12.17; 24.87]). (4) Conclusion: Higher daprodustat doses were associated with a higher impact on efficacy outcomes as serum total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), hemoglobin, and ferritin. However, data about the safety profile of different doses of daprodustat is still missing.
Comparison Benefit between Hydrogen Peroxide and Adrenaline in Tonsillectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Hsieh Cheng-Yu , Hsu Chuan-Jen , Wu Hung-Pin , Sun Chuan-Hung
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to further evaluate the benefit of topical hemostasis agents in tonsillectomy. We compared the clinical effects of topical application between hydrogen peroxide and adrenaline in tonsillectomy. Overall, 60 patients (120 tonsils) were prospectively enrolled for tonsillectomy between February 2018 and December 2020. The patients were randomly assigned to either the hydrogen peroxide or adrenaline group. Then, tonsillectomy was performed using hydrogen peroxide as a hemostatic agent on the assigned side, while adrenaline was applied to the other side. All procedures were performed by a surgeon who was blinded to the randomization. The outcome measurements of operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative pain, and hemorrhage events were analyzed. The intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the hydrogen peroxide group than in the adrenaline group (9.99 ± 4.51 mL vs. 13.87 ± 6.32 mL; p = 0.0). The median operation time was also significantly lower in the hydrogen peroxide group (8.02 ± 3.59 min vs. 9.22 ± 3.88 min; p = 0.019). Meanwhile, the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were significantly higher in the hydrogen peroxide group (4.98 ± 1.94 vs. 4.27 ± 1.97; p = 0.001). The topical application of hydrogen peroxide as a hemostatic agent effectively decreases the operation time and intraoperative blood loss. Thus, hydrogen peroxide can be used as a routine hemostatic agent for bleeding control in tonsillectomy.
Predictors of Kidney Delayed Graft Function and Its Prognostic Impact following Combined Liver–Kidney Transplantation: A Recent Single-Center Experience
Authors: Vincenzi Paolo , Gaynor Jeffrey J. , Vianna Rodrigo , Ciancio Gaetano
Published: May 2022

Combined liver–kidney transplantation (CLKT) improves patient survival among liver transplant recipients with renal dysfunction. However, kidney delayed graft function (kDGF) still represents a common and challenging complication that can negatively impact clinical outcomes. This retrospective study analyzed the incidence, potential risk factors, and prognostic impact of kDGF development following CLKT in a recently transplanted cohort. Specifically, 115 consecutive CLKT recipients who were transplanted at our center between January 2015 and February 2021 were studied. All transplanted kidneys received hypothermic pulsatile machine perfusion (HPMP) prior to transplant. The primary outcome was kDGF development. Secondary outcomes included the combined incidence and severity of developing postoperative complications; development of postoperative infections; biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR); renal function at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-transplant; and death-censored graft and patient survival. kDGF was observed in 37.4% (43/115) of patients. Multivariable analysis of kDGF revealed the following independent predictors: preoperative dialysis (p = 0.0003), lower recipient BMI (p = 0.006), older donor age (p = 0.003), utilization of DCD donors (p = 0.007), and longer delay of kidney transplantation after liver transplantation (p = 0.0003). With a median follow-up of 36.7 months post-transplant, kDGF was associated with a significantly increased risk of developing more severe postoperative complication(s) (p < 0.000001), poorer renal function (particularly at 1 month post-transplant, p < 0.000001), and worse death-censored graft (p = 0.00004) and patient survival (p = 0.0002). kDGF may be responsible for remarkable negative effects on immediate and potentially longer-term clinical outcomes after CLKT. Understanding the important risk factors for kDGF development in CLKT may better guide recipient and donor selection(s) and improve clinical decisions in this increasing group of transplant recipients.
Altered Blood Brain Barrier Permeability and Oxidative Stress in Cntnap2 Knockout Rat Model
Authors: Memis Idil , Mittal Rahul , Furar Emily , White Isaiah , Eshraghi Rebecca , Mittal Jeenu , Eshraghi Adrien
Published: May 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by three core symptoms, specifically impaired social behavior, stereotypic/repetitive behaviors, and sensory/communication deficits. Although the exact pathophysiology of ASD is still unknown, host genetics, oxidative stress, and compromised blood brain barrier (BBB) have been implicated in predisposition to ASD. With regards to genetics, mutations in the genes such as CNTNAP2 have been associated with increased susceptibility of developing ASD. Although some studies observed conflicting results suggesting no association of CNTNAP2 with ASD, other investigations correlated this gene with autism. In addition, CNTNAP2 mediated signaling is generally considered to play a role in neurological disorders due to its critical role in neurodevelopment, neurotransmission, and synaptic plasticity. In this investigation, we studied BBB integrity and oxidative stress in Cntnap2−/− rats. We observed that the BBB permeability was significantly increased in Cntnap2−/− rats compared to littermate wild-type (WT) animals as determined by FITC-dextran and Evans blue assay. High levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and lower amounts of reduced glutathione were observed in brain homogenates of Cntnap2−/− rats, suggesting oxidative stress. Brain sections from Cntnap2−/− rats showed intense inducible nitric oxide synthase immunostaining, which was undetectable in WT animals. Quantification of nitric oxide in brain homogenates revealed significantly high levels in Cntnap2−/− rats compared to the control group. As increased permeability of the BBB and oxidative stress have been observed in ASD individuals, our results suggest that Cntnap2−/− rats have a high construct and face validity and can be explored to develop effective therapeutic modalities.
Autism Spectrum Disorders and Malocclusions: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses
Authors: Barros Aline , Mascarenhas Paulo , Botelho João , Machado Vanessa , Balixa Gabriela , Bandeira Lopes Luísa
Published: May 2022

Studies heretofore have shown inconsistent results on the link of ASD to malocclusion. Herein, we aimed to compare the prevalence of malocclusion among children and adolescents with ASD compared with non-ASD healthy counterparts through a systematic review. The electronic search focused on five databases, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, LILACS, and OpenGrey until January 2022, and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (PROSPERO No. CRD42022298023). Observational and intervention studies that compared occlusion characteristics of ASD individuals under 18 years old with healthy controls were included. Pairwise random effects meta-analyses of odds ratio (OR) were performed. Methodological quality was assessed by using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for cross-sectional studies. A total of thirteen studies were included for qualitative analysis, and seven for quantitative analysis. The results presented a great heterogeneity and moderate risk of bias; thus, it was not possible to state that there is a risk of malocclusion in individuals with ASD. Future studies should be carried out with strict criteria in the choice of samples, control group, and diagnosis of malocclusion in order to meet the necessary requirements for greater methodological quality.
Development of an Analytical Model to Predict Stress–Strain Curves of Short Fiber-Reinforced Polymers with Six Independent Parameters
Authors: Esha Esha , Hausmann Joachim
Published: May 2022

Mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced polymers are sensitive to environmental influences due to the presence of the polymer matrix but inhomogeneous and anisotropic due to the presence of the fibers. Hence, structural analysis with mechanical properties as a function of loading, environment, design, and material condition produces more precise, reliable, and economic structures. In the present study, an analytical model is developed that can predict engineering values as well as non-linear stress–strain curves as a function of six independent parameters for short fiber-reinforced polymers manufactured by injection molding. These parameters are the strain, temperature, humidity, fiber content, fiber orientation, and thickness of the specimen. A three-point test matrix for each independent parameter is used to obtain experimental data. To insert the effect of in-homogenous and anisotropic distribution of fibers in the analytical model, microCT analysis is done. Similarly, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) is done to insert the viscoelastic effect of the material. The least mean square regression method is used to predict empirical formulas. The standard error of regression for the fitting of the model with experimental stress–strain curves is closely controlled below 2% of the stress range. This study provides user-specific material data for simulations with specific material, loading, and environmental conditions.
The Hypothesis of the Prolonged Cell Cycle in Turner Syndrome
Authors: Álvarez-Nava Francisco , Soto-Quintana Marisol
Published: May 2022

Turner syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal disorder that is caused by a missing or structurally abnormal second sex chromosome. Subjects with TS are at an increased risk of developing intrauterine growth retardation, low birth weight, short stature, congenital heart diseases, infertility, obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases (stroke and myocardial infarction). The underlying pathogenetic mechanism of TS is unknown. The assumption that X chromosome-linked gene haploinsufficiency is associated with the TS phenotype is questioned since such genes have not been identified. Thus, other pathogenic mechanisms have been suggested to explain this phenotype. Morphogenesis encompasses a series of events that includes cell division, the production of migratory precursors and their progeny, differentiation, programmed cell death, and integration into organs and systems. The precise control of the growth and differentiation of cells is essential for normal development. The cell cycle frequency and the number of proliferating cells are essential in cell growth. 45,X cells have a failure to proliferate at a normal rate, leading to a decreased cell number in a given tissue during organogenesis. A convergence of data indicates an association between a prolonged cell cycle and the phenotypical features in Turner syndrome. This review aims to examine old and new findings concerning the relationship between a prolonged cell cycle and TS phenotype. These studies reveal a diversity of phenotypic features in TS that could be explained by reduced cell proliferation. The implications of this hypothesis for our understanding of the TS phenotype and its pathogenesis are discussed. It is not surprising that 45,X monosomy leads to cellular growth pathway dysregulation with profound deleterious effects on both embryonic and later stages of development. The prolonged cell cycle could represent the beginning of the pathogenesis of TS, leading to a series of phenotypic consequences in embryonic/fetal, neonatal, pediatric, adolescence, and adulthood life.
Genetic Interaction of Thm2 and Thm1 Shapes Postnatal Craniofacial Bone
Authors: Bumann Erin E. , Hahn Leat Portia , Wang Henry H. , Hufft-Martinez Brittany M. , Wang Wei , Tran Pamela V.
Published: May 2022

Ciliopathies are genetic syndromes that link skeletal dysplasias to the dysfunction of primary cilia. Primary cilia are sensory organelles synthesized by intraflagellar transport (IFT)—A and B complexes, which traffic protein cargo along a microtubular core. We have reported that the deletion of the IFT-A gene, Thm2, together with a null allele of its paralog, Thm1, causes a small skeleton with a small mandible or micrognathia in juvenile mice. Using micro-computed tomography, here we quantify the craniofacial defects of Thm2−/−; Thm1aln/+ triple allele mutant mice. At postnatal day 14, triple allele mutant mice exhibited micrognathia, midface hypoplasia, and a decreased facial angle due to shortened upper jaw length, premaxilla, and nasal bones, reflecting altered development of facial anterior-posterior elements. Mutant mice also showed increased palatal width, while other aspects of the facial transverse, as well as vertical dimensions, remained intact. As such, other ciliopathy-related craniofacial defects, such as cleft lip and/or palate, hypo-/hypertelorism, broad nasal bridge, craniosynostosis, and facial asymmetry, were not observed. Calvarial-derived osteoblasts of triple allele mutant mice showed reduced bone formation in vitro that was ameliorated by Hedgehog agonist, SAG. Together, these data indicate that Thm2 and Thm1 genetically interact to regulate bone formation and sculpting of the postnatal face. The triple allele mutant mice present a novel model to study craniofacial bone development.
Comparative Analysis on the Evolution of Seepage Parameters in Methane Hydrate Production under Depressurization of Clayey Silt Reservoir and Sandy Reservoir
Authors: Li Yaobin , Xin Xin , Xu Tianfu , Zhu Huixing , Wang Haibin , Chen Qiang , Yang Bo
Published: May 2022

Gas hydrates are likely to become an important strategic resource with commercial development prospects. It is therefore of great significance to realize the long-term and efficient production of methane hydrate reservoirs. Previous studies have shown that the lithological characteristics of hydrate reservoirs have a significant impact on reservoir productivity by influencing the evolution of seepage parameters in the process of hydrate production. The porosity (Φ) and initial hydrate saturation (SH) affect the amount of hydrate decomposition and pressure transfer, and also indirectly affect the reservoir temperature field. The permeability (k) directly affects the rate of pressure-drop transmission and methane gas discharge. Due to the differences in seepage parameters caused by different reservoir lithology, a sandy hydrate reservoir (SHR) in Japan and a clayey silt hydrate reservoir (CHR) in China were found to have different gas production rates and the spatial evolution characteristics of the temperature and pressure fields varied in gas hydrate production tests. Therefore, to ensure the long-term and efficient production of the CHR in China, two models were established for a comparative analysis based on a numerical simulation. The two models were depressurizing models of the CHR of the W11 drilling site in the Shenhu Sea area of the South China Sea and the SHR of the AT1 drilling site in the Eastern Nankai Trough of Japan. Both models considered the heterogeneity of seepage parameters, and the TOUGH+HYDARATE (T+H) code was used in subsequent calculations. Four key results were obtained: (a) The order of the significance levels of the lithological parameters on productivity was k > SH > Φ in the CHR and SH > k > Φ in the SHR. (b) The heat conduction and heat convection in the CHR were weaker than in the SHR, which made it difficult to recover the low-temperature area caused by hydrate decomposition. (c) The exploitation of a high k hydrate reservoir should be given priority when the other initial conditions were the same in both the CHR and SHR. (d) The exploitation of both the CHR and SHR should not only rely on the hydrate content or seepage capacity to determine the reservoir exploitation potential, but the combined effect of the two parameters should be fully considered.
Correction: Gao et al. Haplotype-Resolved Genome Analyses Reveal Genetically Distinct Nuclei within a Commercial Cultivar of Lentinula edodes. J. Fungi 2022, 8, 167
Authors: Gao Qi , Yan Dong , Song Shuang , Fan Yangyang , Wang Shouxian , Liu Yu , Huang Yu , Rong Chengbo , Guo Yuan , Zhao Shuang , Qin Wentao , Xu Jianping
Published: May 2022

In the original article [...]
The Sporisorium reilianum Effector Vag2 Promotes Head Smut Disease via Suppression of Plant Defense Responses
Authors: Zhao Yulei , Agrawal Nisha , Ghareeb Hassan , Habib Mohammad Tanbir , Dickmeis Sascha , Schwachtje Jens , Iven Tim E. , Kopka Joachim , Feussner Ivo , Schirawski Jan
Published: May 2022

Genome comparison between the maize pathogens Ustilago maydis and Sporisorium reilianum revealed a large diversity region (19-1) containing nearly 30 effector gene candidates, whose deletion severely hampers virulence of both fungi. Dissection of the S. reilianum gene cluster resulted in the identification of one major contributor to virulence, virulence-associated gene 2 (vag2; sr10050). Quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) experiments revealed high expression of vag2 during biotrophic growth of S. reilianum. Using the yeast secretion trap assay, we confirmed the existence of a functional signal peptide allowing protein secretion via the conventional secretory pathway. We identified the cytoplasmic maize chorismate mutase ZmCM2 by yeast two-hybrid screening as a possible interaction partner of Vag2. Interaction of the two proteins in planta was confirmed by bimolecular fluorescence complementation. qRT-PCR experiments revealed vag2-dependent downregulation of salicylic acid (SA)-induced genes, which correlated with higher SA levels in plant tissues colonized by Δvag2 deletion strains relative to S. reilianum wildtype strains. Metabolite analysis suggested rewiring of pathogen-induced SA biosynthesis by preferential conversion of the SA precursor chorismate into the aromatic amino acid precursor prephenate by ZmCM2 in the presence of Vag2. Possibly, the binding of Vag2 to ZmCM2 inhibits the back reaction of the ZmCM2-catalyzed interconversion of chorismate and prephenate, thus contributing to fungal virulence by lowering the plant SA-induced defenses.
Three New Species of Hypoxylon (Xylariales, Ascomycota) on a Multigene Phylogeny from Medog in Southwest China
Authors: Song Zi-Kun , Zhu An-Hong , Liu Zhen-Dong , Qu Zhi , Li Yu , Ma Hai-Xia
Published: May 2022

During a survey of hypoxylaceous fungi in Medog county (Tibet Autonomous Region, China), three new species, including Hypoxylon damuense, Hypoxylon medogense, and Hypoxylon zangii, were described and illustrated based on morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses. Hypoxylon damuense is characterized by its yellow-brown stromatal granules, light-brown to brown ascospores, and frequently indehiscent perispore. Hypoxylon medogense is morphologically and phylogenetically related to H. erythrostroma but differs in having larger ascospores with straight spore-length germ slit and conspicuously coil-like perispore ornamentation. Hypoxylon zangii shows morphological similarities to H. texense but differs in having Amber (47), Fulvous (43) and Sienna (8) KOH-extractable pigments and larger ascospores with straight spore-length germ slit. The multi-gene phylogenetic analyses inferred from the datasets of ITS-RPB2-LSU-TUB2 supported the three new taxa as separate lineages within Hypoxylon. A key to all known Hypoxylon species from China and related species worldwide is provided.
Evaluation of Protected Areas in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, West Africa, Using a Remote Sensing-Based Approach
Authors: Singh Minerva , Massimino Lorena M. , Collins Catherine Matilda
Published: May 2022

This study assesses the representation of defined ecoregions, slope profiles, and species richness of threatened mammals in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)-listed protected areas in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. It also evaluates the exposure of protected area categories to the cumulative degree of human modification and their vulnerability to future agricultural expansion. Spatial gap and statistical analyses were performed using quantitative data from publicly available online global databases. Analyses indicated key conservation priorities for both countries: (1) to increase the protection of the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic, West Sudanian savanna, and Eastern Guinean forests, especially of the Eastern Guinean forests’ ecoregion associated with the Guinean forests of the West Africa biodiversity hotspot; (2) to increase the protected area coverage of flat lands and low slopes; and (3) to enhance the size and connectivity of existing protected areas, including restoring degraded habitats. The study emphasizes that improving the ability of tropical protected areas to conserve nature and mitigate anthropogenic threats should be a global conservation priority. Improving the data quality and detail within the World Database on Protected Areas and ground-truthing them are recommended urgently to support accurate and informative assessments.
Creating Strategic Reserves to Protect Forest Carbon and Reduce Biodiversity Losses in the United States
Authors: Law Beverly E. , Moomaw William R. , Hudiburg Tara W. , Schlesinger William H. , Sterman John D. , Woodwell George M.
Published: May 2022

This paper provides a review and comparison of strategies to increase forest carbon, and reduce species losses for climate change mitigation and adaptation in the United States. It compares forest management strategies and actions that are taking place or being proposed to reduce wildfire risk and to increase carbon storage with recent research findings. International agreements state that safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystems is fundamental to climate resilience with respect to climate change impacts on them, and their roles in adaptation and mitigation. The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report on impacts, mitigation, and adaptation found, and member countries agreed, that maintaining the resilience of biodiversity and ecosystem services at a global scale is “fundamental” for climate mitigation and adaptation, and requires “effective and equitable conservation of approximately 30 to 50% of Earth’s land, freshwater and ocean areas, including current near-natural ecosystems.” Our key message is that many of the current and proposed forest management actions in the United States are not consistent with climate goals, and that preserving 30 to 50% of lands for their carbon, biodiversity and water is feasible, effective, and necessary for achieving them.
Improved DBSCAN Spindle Bearing Condition Monitoring Method Based on Kurtosis and Sample Entropy
Authors: Zhang Yanfei , Li Yunhao , Kong Lingfei , Niu Qingbo , Bai Yu
Published: May 2022

An improved density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (IDBSCAN) analysis approach based on kurtosis and sample entropy (SE) is presented for the identification of operational state in order to provide accurate monitoring of spindle operation condition. This is because of the low strength of the shock signal created by bearing of precision spindle of misalignment or imbalanced load, and the difficulties in extracting shock features. Wavelet noise reduction begins by dividing the recorded vibration data into equal lengths. Features like kurtosis and entropy in the frequency domain are used to generate feature vectors that indicate the bearing operation state. IDBSCAN cluster analysis is then utilized to establish the ideal neighborhood radius (Eps) and the minimum number of objects contained within the neighborhood radius (MinPts) of the vector set, which are combined to identify the bearing operating condition features. Finally, utilizing data from the University of Cincinnati, the approach was validated and assessed, attaining a condition detection accuracy of 99.2%. As a follow-up, the spindle’s vibration characteristics were studied utilizing an unbalanced bearing’s load bench. Bearing state recognition accuracy was 98.4%, 98.4%, and 96.7%, respectively, under mild, medium, and overload circumstances, according to the results of the experimental investigation. Moreover, it shows that conditions of bearings under various unbalanced loads can be precisely monitored using the proposed method without picking up on specific sorts of failures.
Obstacle Modeling and Structural Optimization of Four-Track Twin-Rocker Rescue Robot
Authors: Xu Xiaobin , Wang Wen , Su Guangyu , Liu Cong , Cai Wei , Zhang Haojie , Ran Yingying , Tan Zhiying , Luo Minzhou
Published: May 2022

In order to achieve the best obstacle surmounting performance of a mobile robot in the rescue environment, a four-track twin-rocker bionic rescue robot with an inner and outer concentric shaft was designed in this paper. From the viewpoint of dynamics, the motion process of the mass center of the robot when climbing steps forward and backward was studied. The maximum obstacle height of the robot was calculated. The relationship between the elevation angle of the car body, the swing angle of the rocker arm and the height of the steps was analyzed by simulation. The simulation results show that the maximum forward and reverse obstacle crossing heights were 92.99 mm and 155.82 mm, respectively. Obstacle climbing experiments of the designed robot prototype were carried out. It was found that the measured maximum height of the step was 95 mm, and the measured maximum height of the reverse obstacle was 165 mm. Finally, bionic particle swarm optimization was used to optimize the structural parameters of the rocker arm with an optimal length of 315.2 mm. The study of this paper can be referenced for the design and analysis of obstacle surmounting rescue robots with similar structures.
Fuzzy-Based Adaptive Dynamic Surface Control for a Type of Uncertain Nonlinear System with Unknown Actuator Faults
Authors: Deng Xiongfeng , Wang Jiakai
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the adaptive control problem of a type of uncertain nonlinear system is addressed. The system discussed includes unknown nonlinear functions, uncertain nonlinear dynamics, and unknown actuator faults. Based on the fuzzy logic systems and dynamic surface control technique, an adaptive fuzzy control law is designed to solve the tracking control problem. In control law design, fuzzy logic systems are utilized to approximate uncertain nonlinear functions, and with the help of the dynamic surface control technique, the problem of the “explosion of complexity” can be overcome. Through stability analysis, it is confirmed that all of the signals in the closed-loop system are semi-global bounded, and the convergence of the tracking error to the specified small neighborhood of the origin can be ensured by adjusting the control law parameters. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control law is verified by simulation examples.
Adaptive, Synchronous, and Mobile Online Education: Developing the ASYMPTOTE Learning Environment
Authors: Barlovits Simon , Caldeira Amélia , Fesakis Georgios , Jablonski Simone , Koutsomanoli Filippaki Despoina , Lázaro Claudia , Ludwig Matthias , Mammana Maria Flavia , Moura Ana , Oehler Deng-Xin Ken , Recio Tomás , Taranto Eugenia , Volika Stamatia
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19-induced distance education was perceived as highly challenging by teachers and students. A cross-national comparison of five European countries identified several challenges occurred during the distance learning period. On this basis, the article aims to develop a theoretical framework and design requirements for distance and online learning tools. As one example for online learning in mathematics education, the ASYMPTOTE system is introduced. It will be freely available by May 2022. ASYMPTOTE is aimed at the adaptive and synchronous delivery of online education by taking a mobile learning approach. Its core is the so-called digital classroom, which not only allows students to interact with each other or with the teacher but also enables teachers to monitor their students’ work progress in real time. With respect to the theoretical framework, this article analyses to what extent the ASYMPTOTE system meets the requirements of online learning. Overall, the digital classroom can be seen as a promising tool for teachers to carry out appropriate formative assessment and—partly—to maintain personal and content-related interaction at a distance. Moreover, we highlight the availability of this tool. Due to its mobile learning approach, almost all students will be able to participate in lessons conducted with ASYMPTOTE.
Stability of the Planar Quadratic Systems from the Ring-Theoretic Viewpoint
Authors: Zalar Borut , Mencinger Matej
Published: May 2022

We show that the classical result on the stability of the origin in a quadratic planar system of ODEs can be formulated using either matrix theory or via its associated real and complex Marcus algebra. A generalization to a three-dimensional case is considered and some counterexamples provided.
Bioactive Peptides from Algae: Traditional and Novel Generation Strategies, Structure-Function Relationships, and Bioinformatics as Predictive Tools for Bioactivity
Authors: O’Connor Jack , Garcia-Vaquero Marco , Meaney Steve , Tiwari Brijesh Kumar
Published: May 2022

Over the last decade, algae have been explored as alternative and sustainable protein sources for a balanced diet and more recently, as a potential source of algal-derived bioactive peptides with potential health benefits. This review will focus on the emerging processes for the generation and isolation of bioactive peptides or cryptides from algae, including: (1) pre-treatments of algae for the extraction of protein by physical and biochemical methods; and (2) methods for the generation of bioactive including enzymatic hydrolysis and other emerging methods. To date, the main biological properties of the peptides identified from algae, including anti-hypertensive, antioxidant and anti-proliferative/cytotoxic effects (for this review, anti-proliferative/cytotoxic will be referred to by the term anti-cancer), assayed in vitro and/or in vivo, will also be summarized emphasizing the structure–function relationship and mechanism of action of these peptides. Moreover, the use of in silico methods, such as quantitative structural activity relationships (QSAR) and molecular docking for the identification of specific peptides of bioactive interest from hydrolysates will be described in detail together with the main challenges and opportunities to exploit algae as a source of bioactive peptides.
Recent Progress of SAPO-34 Zeolite Membranes for CO2 Separation: A Review
Authors: Usman Muhammad
Published: May 2022

In the zeolite family, the silicoaluminophosphate (SAPO)-34 zeolite has a unique chemical structure, distinctive pore size, adsorption characteristics, as well as chemical and thermal stability, and recently, has attracted much research attention. Increasing global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions pose a serious environmental threat to humans, animals, plants, and the entire environment. This mini-review summarizes the role of SAPO-34 zeolite membranes, including mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) and pure SAPO-34 membranes in CO2 separation. Specifically, this paper summarizes significant developments in SAPO-34 membranes for CO2 removal from air and natural gas. Consideration is given to a variety of successes in SAPO-34 membranes, and future ideas are described in detail to foresee how SAPO-34 could be employed to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. We hope that this study will serve as a detailed guide to the use of SAPO-34 membranes in industrial CO2 separation.
Effect of Dissolved Salts on Steady-State Heat Transfer Using Excessive Cooling by Water-Air Mists
Authors: Hernández-Bocanegra Constantin Alberto , Acosta-González Francisco Andrés , Ramos-Banderas José Ángel , López-Granados Nancy Margarita
Published: May 2022

This work reports a new finding on the effect of dissolved salts, in water-air mists, on spray heat removal efficiencies from a metallic surface under steady state conditions. The experimental system is based on a calorimeter that measures heat flux removed by water-air mist sprays from 8 mm diameter × 2.5 mm thickness platinum samples heated by electromagnetic induction. During steady-state experiments, a solid-state controller equilibrates automatically the rate of heat generation with the rate of heat removal to reach a constant temperature. Equilibrium temperatures for stepwise T rising include 200 to 1200 °C in steps of 100 °C and then stepwise T that is lowered to 200 °C. The new finding is that, when using soft water-air mist and a high-water impingement density, a lack of temperature control during stepwise T increases was observed when stepping from 200 to 300 °C. This lack of temperature control is associated with a high heat flux and is attributed to the stabilization of the single-phase convection regime when T rising from 200 to 300 °C. Temperature stabilization was again possible only at wall temperatures Tw≥600 °C, at which single-phase convection was not stable. In contrast, when using a hard water-air mist under the same fluid flow conditions, all temperatures were readily reached. This is attributed to the transition from single-phase convection to nucleate boiling regime when T increased from 200 to 300 °C. This transition leads to a decrease in heat flux due to a reduction in the contact area between liquid and the wall surface. Finally, the corresponding boiling curves at high wall temperatures show the importance of heat radiation from the wall to understand the effect of salts during the stable vapor film regime.