bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cumulative Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Anthropogenic Impacts in the Protected Area of the Gran Paradiso National Park in the NW Alps, Italy
Authors: Richiardi Chiara , Minciardi Maria Rita , Siniscalco Consolata , Adamo Maria
Published: May 2023

Anthropogenic threats are responsible for habitat degradation and biodiversity decline. The mapping of the distribution and intensity of threats to biodiversity can be useful for informing efficient planning in protected areas. In this study, we propose a cumulative spatial and temporal analysis of anthropogenic impacts insisting on an alpine protected area, the Gran Paradiso National Park. The applied methodology starts with the construction of a spatial and temporal dataset of anthropogenic impacts and normalization based on relative intensity. The impacts analyzed include overgrazing, helicopter flights, road networks, built-up areas, worksites, derivations and discharges, sports activities, and dams and hydroelectric power plants. Each impact was assigned a weight based on its temporal persistence. Threats maps obtained from the collected, normalized, and weighted geodata are thus obtained. Finally, the risk map is calculated by combining the impact map with the vulnerability map, estimated through the methodology outlined in the Green Guidelines of the Metropolitan City of Turin. The risk map obtained was cross-referenced with the Park’s cartography to highlight any critical issues to specific habitats. Results show that most of the territory falls in low-risk (63%) or no-risk (35%) areas. However, there are some habitats that are totally or nearly totally affected by some degree of risk, although different to zero, such as the “Lentic waters with aquatic vegetation [incl. cod. 3130]”, the “Lentic waters partially buried”, the “Mountain pine forests (Pinus uncinata) [cod. 9430]”, and the “Mixed hygrophilous woods of broad-leaved trees [incl. cod. 91E0]”. This study highlights both the potential of these analyses, which enable informed management and planning of the fruition of protected areas, and the limitations of such approaches, which require in-depth knowledge of the territory and ecosystems and how they respond to threats in order to refine the model and obtain realistic maps.
Single-Compartment Dose Prescriptions for Ablative 90Y-Radioembolization Segmentectomy
Authors: Kappadath Srinivas Cheenu , Lopez Benjamin P.
Published: May 2023

Background: Yttrium-90 (90Y) radioembolization is increasingly being utilized with curative intent. While single-compartment doses with respect to the perfused volume for the complete pathologic necrosis (CPN) of tumors have been reported, the actual doses delivered to the tumor and at-risk margins that leads to CPN have hitherto not been estimated. We present an ablative dosimetry model that calculates the dose distribution for tumors and at-risk margins based on numerical mm-scale dose modeling and the available clinical CPN evidence and report on the necessary dose metrics needed to achieve CPN following 90Y-radioembolization. Methods: Three-dimensional (3D) activity distributions (MBq/voxel) simulating spherical tumors were modeled with a 121 × 121 × 121 mm3 soft tissue volume (1 mm3 voxels). Then, 3D dose distributions (Gy/voxel) were estimated by convolving 3D activity distributions with a 90Y 3D dose kernel (Gy/MBq) sized 61 × 61 × 61 mm3 (1 mm3 voxels). Based on the published data on single-compartment segmental doses for the resected liver samples of HCC tumors showing CPN after radiation segmentectomy, the nominal voxel-based mean tumor dose (DmeanCPN), point dose at tumor rim (DrimCPN), and point dose 2 mm beyond the tumor boundary (D2mmCPN), which are necessary to achieve CPN, were calculated. The single-compartment dose prescriptions to required achieve CPN were then analytically modeled for more general cases of tumors with diameters dt = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 cm and with tumor-to-normal-liver uptake ratios T:N = 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, and 5:1. Results: The nominal case defined to estimate the doses needed for CPN, based on the previously published clinical data, was a single hyperperfused tumor with a diameter of 2.5 cm and T:N = 3:1, treated with a single-compartment segmental dose of 400 Gy. The voxel-level doses necessary to achieve CPN were 1053 Gy for the mean tumor dose, 860 Gy for the point dose at the tumor boundary, and 561 Gy for the point dose at 2 mm beyond the tumor edge. The single-compartment segmental doses necessary to satisfy the criteria for CPN in terms of the mean tumor dose, point dose at the tumor boundary, and the point dose at 2 mm beyond the tumor edge were tabulated for a range of tumor diameters and tumor-to-normal-liver uptake ratios. Conclusions: The analytical functions that describe the relevant dose metrics for CPN and, more importantly, the single-compartment dose prescriptions for the perfused volume needed to achieve CPN are reported for a large range of conditions in terms of tumor diameters (1–7 cm) and T:N uptake ratios (2:1–5:1).
Pars Plana Vitrectomy in Inherited Retinal Diseases: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Iovino Claudio , Rosolia Andrea , Damiano Luciana , Iodice Clemente Maria , Di Iorio Valentina , Testa Francesco , Simonelli Francesca
Published: May 2023

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders that may be complicated by several vitreoretinal conditions requiring a surgical approach. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) stands as a valuable treatment option in these cases, but its application in eyes with such severely impaired chorioretinal architectures remains controversial. Furthermore, the spreading of gene therapy and the increasing use of retinal prostheses will end up in a marked increase in demand for PPV surgery for IRD patients. The retinal degeneration that typically affects patients with hereditary retinal disorders may influence the execution of the surgery and the expected results. Considering the importance of PPV application in IRD-related complications, it is fundamental to try to understand from the literature what is adequate and safe in posterior eye segment surgery. Use of dyes, light toxicity, and risk of wounding scar development have always been themes that discourage the execution of vitreoretinal surgery in already impaired eyes. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively summarize all PPV applications in different IRDs, highlighting the favorable results as well as the potential precautions to consider when performing vitreoretinal surgery in these eyes.
Sarcopenia and Sarcopenic Obesity and Osteoarthritis: A Discussion among Muscles, Fat, Bones, and Aging
Authors: Spanoudaki Maria , Giaginis Constantinos , Mentzelou Maria , Bisbinas Alexia , Solovos Evangelos , Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Paliokas Ioannis , Zidrou Christiana , Cheimaras Antonis , Hassapidou Maria , Papadopoulos Athanasios N. , Papadopoulou Sousana K.
Published: May 2023

Aging is a physical procedure for people and nature. Our aging world is expanding because of the life span extension. Aging has a crucial relationship with our body composition (muscles, bones, and adipose tissue), which is characterized by an increase in fat mass and a gradual decrease in muscle mass and strength and bone density. These alterations affect physical performance and impact quality of life enhancing the risk for non-communicable diseases, immobilization, and disability. As far we know, osteoarthritis of lower limbs, sarcopenic obesity, and muscle mass and/or strength loss are treated separately. However, bones, muscles, adipose tissue, and aging appear to have an interconnection through a dialogue as they talk to each other. Health disorders are coming into the surface when this relationship is disrupted. The aim of our study is to search deeper into this interconnection, so that when adipose tissue increases, we have to take a look into the condition of muscle mass, bone, and connective tissue and vice versa, through the assessment of physical performance. Consequently, the triad muscle-bone-adipose tissue disorders by aging should be treated as a single entity.
The Quantification of Bacterial Cell Size: Discrepancies Arise from Varied Quantification Methods
Authors: Cao Qian’andong , Huang Wenqi , Zhang Zheng , Chu Pan , Wei Ting , Zheng Hai , Liu Chenli
Published: May 2023

The robust regulation of the cell cycle is critical for the survival and proliferation of bacteria. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms regulating the bacterial cell cycle, it is essential to accurately quantify cell-cycle-related parameters and to uncover quantitative relationships. In this paper, we demonstrate that the quantification of cell size parameters using microscopic images can be influenced by software and by the parameter settings used. Remarkably, even if the consistent use of a particular software and specific parameter settings is maintained throughout a study, the type of software and the parameter settings can significantly impact the validation of quantitative relationships, such as the constant-initiation-mass hypothesis. Given these inherent characteristics of microscopic image-based quantification methods, it is recommended that conclusions be cross-validated using independent methods, especially when the conclusions are associated with cell size parameters that were obtained under different conditions. To this end, we presented a flexible workflow for simultaneously quantifying multiple bacterial cell-cycle-related parameters using microscope-independent methods.
Monkeypox: A New Challenge for Global Health System?
Authors: Spirito Francesca , Guida Agostino , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Lo Muzio Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic, starting in 2020, has presented a major challenge in terms of early diagnosis and the subsequent containment and management of severe cases. The spread of viruses such as monkeypox in non-endemic countries is now creating new difficulties for healthcare professionals. Proper case definition and clinical examination are crucial for the early identification of suspected cases. For this reason, we performed a review of the literature in order to report the first signs, which are useful for healthcare providers for early case identification. Since 2022 to date, 86,930 laboratory-confirmed cases and 1051 probable cases have been reported worldwide, and of these, 116 were fatal cases and, for the first time, most of the cases were registered in countries that have not historically reported monkeypox and that lack direct or immediate epidemiological links to areas of West or Central Africa where the disease is endemic. Patients with Monkeypox experience prodromal symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and a rash after an incubation period of 5–21 days. The disease is usually self-limiting within 2–4 weeks but can lead to complications, such as pneumonia, encephalitis, kidney injury, and myocarditis in children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The case–fatality ratio is between 1 and 10%. Today, prevention campaigns and the control of human monkeypox are the best weapons to prevent infection and stop transmission. Prevention strategies, such as avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, and the proper preparation of all foods containing animal meat or parts, should be adopted. Furthermore, close contact with infected people or contaminated materials should be avoided to prevent human-to-human transmission.
The Impact of the Microbiological Vaginal Swab on the Reproductive Outcome in Infertile Women
Authors: Findeklee Sebastian , Urban Lena , Sima Romina-Marina , Baus Simona Lucia , Halfmann Alexander , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Haj Hamoud Bashar
Published: May 2023

Background: The thesis on which this paper is based intended to investigate whether the result of the microbiological vaginal swab has an influence on the outcome of the fertility treatment. Methods: The microbiological vaginal swabs of patients who received fertility treatment at Saarland University Hospital were evaluated. Depending on the microorganisms detected, the swab result was classified as inconspicuous, intermediate, or conspicuous. The SPSS software was used to determine the correlation between the swab result and the outcome of the fertility treatment. Results: Dysbiosis was associated with a worse outcome of fertility treatment. The pregnancy rate with a conspicuous swab was 8.6%, whereas it was 13.4% with an inconspicuous swab. However, this association was not statistically significant. Furthermore, an association of endometriosis with dysbiosis was found. Endometriosis was more frequent with a conspicuous swab result than with an inconspicuous result (21.1% vs. 17.7%), yet the correlation was not statistically significant. However, the absence of lactobacilli was significantly associated with endometriosis (p = 0.021). The association between endometriosis and a lower pregnancy rate was also statistically significant (p = 0.006). Conclusion: The microbiological vaginal and cervical swabs can be used as predictors for the success of fertility treatments. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of transforming a dysbiotic flora into a eubiotic environment on the success of fertility treatments.
1-(((6-(Methoxycarbonyl)-5-oxononan-4-yl)oxy)carbonyl)cyclopropane-1-carboxylic Acid
Authors: Gorlov Evgenii S. , Shuingalieva Diana V. , Ilovaisky Alexey I. , Vil’ Vera A. , Terent’ev Alexander O.
Published: May 2023

Here, we first report the 2′-acyloxy-1,3-dicarbonyl compound construction in a three-component oxidative reaction of alkyl ketene dimer with cyclic diacyl peroxide and trimethyl orthoformate. The discovered synthesis allows us to form 2′-functionalized 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds instead of the common 2-functionalized moiety. The reaction between 4-butylidene-3-propyloxetan-2-one and cyclopropyl malonoyl peroxide proceeds in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid and trimethyl orthoformate at 120 °C for 1 h. The synthesized compound was characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and IR spectroscopy.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Flow Structure and Heat Transfer Behavior of Multiple Jet Impingement Using MgO-Water Nanofluids
Authors: Tang Tsz Loong , Salleh Hamidon , Sadiq Muhammad Imran , Mohd Sabri Mohd Anas , Ahmad Meor Iqram Meor , Ghopa Wan Aizon W.
Published: May 2023

Nanofluids have attracted significant attention from researchers due to their ability to significantly enhance heat transfer, especially in jet impingement flows, which can improve their cooling performance. However, there is a lack of research on the use of nanofluids in multiple jet impingements, both in terms of experimental and numerical studies. Therefore, further investigation is necessary to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of using nanofluids in this type of cooling system. Thus, an experimental and numerical investigation was performed to study the flow structure and heat transfer behavior of multiple jet impingement using MgO-water nanofluids with a 3 × 3 inline jet array at a nozzle-to-plate distance of 3 mm. The jet spacing was set to 3, 4.5, and 6 mm; the Reynolds number varies from 1000 to 10,000; and the particle volume fraction ranges from 0% to 0.15%. A 3D numerical analysis using ANSYS Fluent with SST k-ω turbulent model was presented. The single-phase model is adopted to predict the thermal physical nanofluid. The flow field and temperature distribution were investigated. Experimental results show that a nanofluid can provide a heat transfer enhancement at a small jet-to-jet spacing using a high particle volume fraction under a low Reynolds number; otherwise, an adverse effect on heat transfer may occur. The numerical results show that the single-phase model can predict the heat transfer trend of multiple jet impingement using nanofluids correctly but with significant deviation from experimental results because it cannot capture the effect of nanoparticles.
Alloy Disordering Effects on the Thermal Conductivity and Energy Gap Temperature Dependence of Cd1−xZnxSe Ternary Crystals Grown by the Bridgman Method
Authors: Strzałkowski Karol , Abouais Ali , Alaoui-Belghiti Amine , Singh Diksha , Hajjaji Abdelowahed
Published: May 2023

Investigated in this work, Cd1−xZnxSe-mixed ternary compounds were grown by the Bridgman method. Several compounds with zinc content varying in the range 0 < x < 1 were produced between two binary parents, CdSe and ZnSe crystals. Using the SEM/EDS technique, the accurate composition of formed crystals was determined along the growth axis. Thanks to that, the grown crystals’ axial and radial uniformity were determined. Characterization of the optical and thermal properties was undertaken. The energy gap was measured using photoluminescence spectroscopy for different compositions and temperatures. The bowing parameter describing the behavior of the fundamental gap with composition for this compound was found to be 0.416 ± 0.06. The thermal characteristics of grown Cd1−xZnxSe alloys were systematically studied. The thermal diffusivity and effusivity of the crystals under investigation were experimentally determined, allowing the calculation of the thermal conductivity. We applied the semi-empirical model that Sadao Adachi developed to analyze the results. Thanks to that, it was possible to estimate the contribution arising from chemical disorder to the crystal’s total resistivity.
Optimized Energy Management Control of a Hybrid Electric Locomotive
Authors: Cipek Mihael , Pavković Danijel , Kljaić Zdenko
Published: May 2023

Hybrid electric propulsion, using batteries for energy storage, is making significant inroads into railway transportation because of its potential for notable fuel savings and the related reductions in greenhouse gases emissions of hybrid railway traction over non-electrified railway lines. Due to the inherent complexity of hybridized powertrains, combining different power conversions and energy storage capabilities, the corresponding operation of their energy management needs to be precisely optimized in order to achieve the minimum possible fuel consumption. Having this in mind, this paper proposes a real-time energy management control strategy for a diesel–electric hybrid locomotive based on the optimization results obtained by means of a dynamic programming optimization algorithm aimed at fuel consumption minimization while honoring the battery state-of-charge constraints and powertrain physical constraints. The final optimization result, expressed in terms of the optimal battery state-of-charge reference (target), is used as an additional input into the state-of-charge controller within the real-time energy management system. The subsequent simulation analysis shows clear fuel economy improvement with 22.9% of fuel savings obtained for the locomotive featuring a hybrid powertrain equipped with batteries over the conventional one.
An Outer Approximation Method for Scheduling Elective Surgeries with Sequence Dependent Setup Times to Multiple Operating Rooms
Authors: Tayyab Aisha , Ullah Saif , Baki Mohammed Fazle
Published: May 2023

In this paper, operating room planning and scheduling problems have been studied. In operating room planning, the allocation of patients to operating rooms and their sequencing are critical in determining the performance of operating rooms. In this paper, three surgery scheduling decisions are considered, including the number of operating rooms to open, the allocation of surgeries to operating rooms, and the sequencing of surgeries in allocated operating rooms. All the surgeries under consideration are elective, and surgery durations are considered deterministic. Further, it is considered that the surgeries have different specialties, and each operating room can accommodate a particular specialty of surgeries, i.e., heterogeneous operating rooms are considered in the current study. Before performing a surgery, setup time is required for operating room turnover and sterilization, and it is considered sequence dependent. A mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model is developed to minimize the overtime costs of operating rooms for allocation and surgery sequencing with sequence dependent setup times. An outer approximation (OA) method is proposed to solve the problem near optimally. Experiments are conducted to compare the performance of the proposed OA method with the standard mixed integer nonlinear programming model. Computational results show the efficiency of the proposed OA method. Later, a case data from a case hospital is collected and a case study is solved.
A Connectome-Based Digital Twin Caenorhabditis elegans Capable of Intelligent Sensorimotor Behavior
Authors: Chen Zhongyu , Yu Yuguo , Xue Xiangyang
Published: May 2023

Despite possessing a simple nervous system, the Caenorhabditis elegans exhibits remarkably intelligent behavior. However, the underlying mechanisms involved in sensory processing and decision making, which contribute to locomotion behaviors, remain unclear. In order to investigate the coordinated function of neurons in achieving chemotaxis behavior, we have developed a digital twin of the C. elegans that combines a connectome-based neural network model with a realistic digital worm body. Through training the digital worm using offline chemotaxis behavioral data generated with a PID controller, we have successfully replicated faithful sinusoidal crawling and intelligent chemotaxis behavior, similar to real worms. By ablating individual neurons, we have examined their roles in modulating or contributing to the regulation of behavior. Our findings highlight the critical involvement of 119 neurons in sinusoidal crawling, including B-type, A-type, D-type, and PDB motor neurons, as well as AVB and AVA interneurons, which was experimentally demonstrated. We have also predicted the involvement of DD04 and DD05 neurons and the lack of relevance of DD02 and DD03 neurons in crawling, which have been confirmed through experimentation. Additionally, head motor neurons, sublateral motor neurons, layer 1 interneurons, and layer 1 and layer 5 sensory neurons are expected to play a role in crawling. In summary, we present a novel methodological framework that enables the establishment of an animal model capable of closed-loop control, faithfully replicating realistic animal behavior. This framework holds potential for examining the neural mechanisms of behaviors in other species.
Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Processing of Rugulopteryx okamurae
Authors: Ferreira-Anta Tania , Flórez-Fernández Noelia , Torres Maria Dolores , Mazón José , Dominguez Herminia
Published: May 2023

One possible scheme of Rugulopteryx okamurae biomass valorization based on a green, rapid and efficient fractionation technique was proposed. Microwave-assisted pressurized hot water extraction was the technology selected as the initial stage for the solubilization of different seaweed components. Operation at 180 °C for 10 min with a 30 liquid-to-solid ratio solubilized more than 40% of the initial material. Both the alginate recovery yield (3.2%) and the phenolic content of the water-soluble extracts (2.3%) were slightly higher when distilled water was used as solvent. However, the carbohydrate content in the extract (60%) was similar for both solvents, but the sulfate content was higher for samples processed with salt water collected from the same coast as the seaweeds. The antiradical capacity of the extracts was related to the phenolic content in the extracts, but the cytotoxicity towards HeLa229 cancer cells was highest (EC50 = 48 µg/mL) for the extract obtained with distilled water at the lowest temperature evaluated. Operation time showed a relevant enhancement of the extraction performance and bioactive properties of the soluble extracts. The further fractionation and study of this extract would be recommended to extend its potential applications. However, due to the low extraction yield, emphasis was given to the solid residue, which showed a heating value in the range 16,102–18,413 kJ/kg and could be useful for the preparation of biomaterials according to its rheological properties.
Linking Pregnancy and Long-Term Health: The Impact of Cardiovascular Risk on Telomere Shortening in Pregnant Women
Authors: Abu-Awwad Simona-Alina , Craina Marius , Gluhovschi Adrian , Ciordas Paula , Marian Catalin , Boscu Lioara , Bernad Elena , Iurciuc Mircea , Abu-Awwad Ahmed , Iurciuc Stela , Maghiari Anca
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences located at the end of chromosomes that play a crucial role in maintaining chromosomal stability. Shortening of telomeres has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the length of telomeres in pregnant women with cardiovascular risk is shorter compared to those without cardiovascular risk. Materials and Methods: A total of 68 participants were enrolled, including 30 pregnant women with cardiovascular risk and 38 without cardiovascular risk, who were followed-up during their pregnancy between 2020 and 2022 at the Obstetrical and Gynecology Department of the “Pius Brînzeu” Emergency County Clinical Hospital in Timişoara, Romania. All included women underwent delivery via cesarean section at the same medical institution. The telomere length was measured in each participant using quantitative Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The results showed that the telomere length was negatively correlated with cardiovascular risk in pregnant women, with significantly shorter telomeres observed in the cardiovascular risk group (mean telomere length = 0.3537) compared to the group without cardiovascular risk (mean telomere length = 0.5728) (p = 0.0458). Conclusions: These findings suggest that cardiovascular risk during pregnancy may be associated with accelerated telomere shortening, which could have implications for the long-term health of both the mother and the child. Further research is needed to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying this association and to identify interventions that may mitigate the negative effects of cardiovascular risk on the telomere length during pregnancy.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategy for Vagal Schwannoma: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Loperfido Antonella , Celebrini Alessandra , Fionda Bruno , Bellocchi Gianluca , Cristalli Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Clinical management of vagal schwannoma is a real diagnostic and therapeutic challenge because the medical history and clinical examination are often non-specific and vagal nerve injury following surgical resection still represents an unsolved problem. The aim of this paper is to provide a case series along with a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for vagal schwannoma of the head and neck, combining our experience with clinical evidence available in the literature. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a series of patients affected by vagal schwannoma who were treated between 2000 and 2020. In addition, a review of the literature on vagal schwannoma management was conducted. Based on the cases described and the literature review, we made a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for the management of vagal schwannoma. Results: We were able to identify 10 patients affected by vagal schwannoma and treated between 2000 and 2020. All patients presented with a painless, mobile, slow-growing lateral neck mass with onset varying from a few months to years. The preoperative diagnostic workup included ultrasound (US) in nine cases, computed tomography (CT) with contrast in six patients and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck in seven cases. All patients included in this study were surgically treated. Conclusions: Vagal schwannoma management represents a true challenge for clinicians and surgery is currently the most effective therapeutic strategy. A multidisciplinary approach through the collaboration of otolaryngologist with other specialists is desirable to develop a tailored treatment plan for the patient.
Clinical Benefits of Laparoscopic Adhesiolysis during Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Kou Hao-Wei , Yeh Chun-Nan , Tsai Chun-Yi , Liu Shou-Hsuan , Ho Wen-Yu , Lee Chao-Wei , Wang Shang-Yu , Chang Ming-Yang , Tian Ya-Chung , Hsu Jun-Te , Hwang Tsann-Long
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: In peritoneal dialysis (PD) therapy, intra-abdominal adhesions (IAAs) can cause catheter insertion failure, poor dialysis function, and decreased PD adequacy. Unfortunately, IAAs are not readily visible to currently available imaging methods. The laparoscopic approach for inserting PD catheters enables direct visualization of IAAs and simultaneously performs adhesiolysis. However, a limited number of studies have investigated the benefit/risk profile of laparoscopic adhesiolysis in patients receiving PD catheter placement. This retrospective study aimed to address this issue. Materials and Methods: This study enrolled 440 patients who received laparoscopic PD catheter insertion at our hospital between January 2013 and May 2020. Adhesiolysis was performed in all cases with IAA identified via laparoscopy. We retrospectively reviewed data, including clinical characteristics, operative details, and PD-related clinical outcomes. Results: These patients were classified into the adhesiolysis group (n = 47) and the non-IAA group (n = 393). The clinical characteristics and operative details had no remarkable between-group differences, except the percentage of prior abdominal operation history was higher and the median operative time was longer in the adhesiolysis group. PD-related clinical outcomes, including incidence rate of mechanical obstruction, PD adequacy (Kt/V urea and weekly creatinine clearance), and overall catheter survival, were all comparable between the adhesiolysis and non-IAA groups. None of the patients in the adhesiolysis group suffered adhesiolysis-related complications. Conclusions: Laparoscopic adhesiolysis in patients with IAA confers clinical benefits in achieving PD-related outcomes comparable to those without IAA. It is a safe and reasonable approach. Our findings provide new evidence to support the benefits of this laparoscopic approach, especially in patients with a risk of IAAs.
Medical Treatment in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Proposed Algorithm Based on the Patient’s Electrolytes and Congestion Status
Authors: Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Xanthopoulos Andrew , Karamichalakis Nikolaos , Triposkiadis Filippos , Tsougos Elias
Published: May 2023

In heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), four classes of drugs (β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and the most recent Sodium–Glucose Co-Transporters 2 Inhibitors) have demonstrated positive results in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Nevertheless, the latest RCTs are not proper for comparison since they were carried out at various times with dissimilar background therapies and the patients enrolled did not have the same characteristics. The difficulty of extrapolating from these trials and proposing a common framework appropriate for all cases is thus obvious. Despite the fact that these four agents are now the fundamental pillars of HFrEF treatment, the built-up algorithm of initiation and titration is a matter of debate. Electrolyte disturbances are common in HFrEF patients and can be attributed to several factors, such as the use of diuretics, renal impairment, and neurohormonal activation. We have identified several HFrEF phenotypes according to their sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) status in a “real world” setting and suggest an algorithm on how to introduce the most appropriate drug and set up therapy based on the patients’ electrolytes and the existence of congestion.
Modified LIX®84I-Based Polymer Inclusion Membranes for Facilitating the Transport Flux of Cu(II) and Variations of Their Physical–Chemical Characteristics
Authors: Hu Fang , Huang Yifa , Huang Yanting , Tang Junming , Hu Jiugang
Published: May 2023

A unique facilitation on the transport flux of Cu(II) was investigated by using modified polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs). LIX®84I-based polymer inclusion membranes (LIX®-based PIMs) using poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as support, 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (NPOE) as plasticizer and Lix84I as carrier were modified by reagents with different polar groups. The modified LIX®-based PIMs showed an increasing transport flux of Cu(II) with the help of ethanol or Versatic acid 10 modifiers. The metal fluxes with the modified LIX®-based PIMs were observed varying with the amount of modifiers, and the transmission time was cut by half for the modified LIX®-based PIM cast with Versatic acid 10. The physical–chemical characteristics of the prepared blank PIMs with different Versatic acid 10 were further characterized by using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), contract angle measurements and electro-chemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The characterization results indicated that the modified LIX®-based PIMs cast with Versatic acid 10 appeared to be more hydrophilic with increasing membrane dielectric constant and electrical conductivity that allowed better accessibility of Cu(II) across PIMs. Hence, it was deduced that hydrophilic modification might be a potential method to improve the transport flux of the PIM system.
Optimization of Process Parameters of Fused Filament Fabrication of Polylactic Acid Composites Reinforced by Aluminum Using Taguchi Approach
Authors: Hasanzadeh Rezgar , Mihankhah Peyman , Azdast Taher , Aghaiee Soroush , Park Chul
Published: May 2023

The benefits of the fused filament fabrication (FFF) method, including its simplicity, affordability, and accessibility, have made it the most commonly used additive manufacturing technique. Polylactic acid (PLA) is the most widely used material in FFF, but its use has been limited by low mechanical properties and a small processing window. To address this, PLA composites are used to improve its properties. Correlating mechanical properties with process parameters is crucial for producing high-quality composite parts. This study investigated the effects of material and process parameters on mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elongation-at-break, using a customized Delta Rostock FFF printer. Two types of filaments were used, pure PLA and PLA/Aluminum composites. Printing speed (10, 20, and 30 mm/s) and raster angle (0/90, −45/45, and −30/60) were selected as process input parameters. The Taguchi method was used for the experiment design, and signal-to-noise ratio analysis was used for statistical optimization. The optimal values for achieving maximum tensile strength of 61.85 MPa and maximum elongation-at-break of 17.7% were determined. Furthermore, the signal-to-noise ratio analysis indicated that the filament type had the greatest influence on the tensile strength, whereas printing speed had the greatest impact on the elongation-at-break.
Application of QSAR Approach to Assess the Effects of Organic Pollutants on Bacterial Virulence Factors
Authors: Al Haj Ishak Al Ali Roukaya , Mondamert Leslie , Berjeaud Jean-Marc , Jandry Joelle , Crépin Alexandre , Labanowski Jérôme
Published: May 2023

The release of a wide variety of persistent chemical contaminants into wastewater has become a growing concern due to their potential health and environmental risks. While the toxic effects of these pollutants on aquatic organisms have been extensively studied, their impact on microbial pathogens and their virulence mechanisms remains largely unexplored. This research paper focuses on the identification and prioritization of chemical pollutants that increase bacterial pathogenicity, which is a public health concern. In order to predict how chemical compounds, such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, would affect the virulence mechanisms of three bacterial strains (Escherichia coli K12, Pseudomonas aeruginosa H103, and Salmonella enterica serovar. Typhimurium), this study has developed quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models. The use of analysis of variance (ANOVA) functions assists in developing QSAR models based on the chemical structure of the compounds, to predict their effect on the growth and swarming behavior of the bacterial strains. The results showed an uncertainty in the created model, and that increases in virulence factors, including growth and motility of bacteria, after exposure to the studied compounds are possible to be predicted. These results could be more accurate if the interactions between groups of functions are included. For that, to make an accurate and universal model, it is essential to incorporate a larger number of compounds of similar and different structures.
Pneumococcal Serotype Evolution and Burden in European Adults in the Last Decade: A Systematic Review
Authors: Teixeira Rita , Kossyvaki Vasiliki , Galvez Paulina , Méndez Cristina
Published: May 2023

Pneumococcal disease is a major cause of morbidity/mortality worldwide, and vaccination is an important measure in its prevention. Despite European children being vaccinated with pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), pneumococcal infections are still a major cause of morbidity/mortality in adults with risk conditions and their vaccination might be an important prevention strategy. New PCVs have been approved, but information is lacking on their potential impact in European adults. In our review, we searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase for studies on the additional PCV20 serotypes (concerning incidence, prevalence, disease severity, lethality, and antimicrobial resistance) in European adults, between January 2010 and April 2022, having included 118 articles and data from 33 countries. We found that these serotypes have become more prevalent in both invasive and non-invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD and NIPD), representing a significant proportion of cases (serotypes 8, 12F, 22F) and more serious disease and/or lethality (10A, 11A, 15B, 22F), showing antimicrobial resistance (11A, 15B, 33F), and/or affecting more vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, immunocompromised patients, and those with comorbidities (8, 10A, 11A, 15B, 22F). The relevance of pneumococcal adult carriers (11A, 15B, 22F, and 8) was also identified. Altogether, our data showed an increase in the additional PCV20 serotypes’ prevalence, accounting for a proportion of approximately 60% of all pneumococcal isolates in IPD in European adults since 2018/2019. Data suggest that adults, as older and/or more vulnerable patients, would benefit from vaccination with higher-coverage PCVs, and that PCV20 may address an unmet medical need.
Cronobacter Species in the Built Food Production Environment: A Review on Persistence, Pathogenicity, Regulation and Detection Methods
Authors: Mousavi Zeinab Ebrahimzadeh , Hunt Kevin , Koolman Leonard , Butler Francis , Fanning Séamus
Published: May 2023

The powdered formula market is large and growing, with sales and manufacturing increasing by 120% between 2012 and 2021. With this growing market, there must come an increasing emphasis on maintaining a high standard of hygiene to ensure a safe product. In particular, Cronobacter species pose a risk to public health through their potential to cause severe illness in susceptible infants who consume contaminated powdered infant formula (PIF). Assessment of this risk is dependent on determining prevalence in PIF-producing factories, which can be challenging to measure with the heterogeneity observed in the design of built process facilities. There is also a potential risk of bacterial growth occurring during rehydration, given the observed persistence of Cronobacter in desiccated conditions. In addition, novel detection methods are emerging to effectively track and monitor Cronobacter species across the food chain. This review will explore the different vehicles that lead to Cronobacter species’ environmental persistence in the food production environment, as well as their pathogenicity, detection methods and the regulatory framework surrounding PIF manufacturing that ensures a safe product for the global consumer.
Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Antifungal Activity of Novel Trimetallic Copper Oxide–Selenium–Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against Some Mucorales Fungi
Authors: Hashem Amr H. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Haponiuk Józef , Abd-Elsalam Kamel A. , Hasanin Mohamed S.
Published: May 2023

Metal nanoparticles are assumed to be a new generation of biologically active materials. The integrations between more than one metal are synergetic multifunctional features. In the current study, trimetallic copper–selenium–zinc oxide nanoparticles (Tri-CSZ NPs) were successfully mycosynthesized using Aspergillus niger through an ecofriendly method for the first time. The biosynthesis of the particles was characterized using physiochemical and topographical analysis. The physiochemical analysis included Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which affirmed that the biosynthesis of Tri-CSZ NPs relies on the functional groups of fungal filtrates. Additionally, the UV–visible and X-ray diffraction patterns were proposed for the formation of Tri-CSZ NPs; moreover, topography analysis confirmed that the micromorphology of the nanoparticles were similar to a stick, with ends having a tetragonal pyramid shape, and with an average nanosize of about 26.3 ± 5.4 nm. Cytotoxicity results reveled that the Tri-CSZ NPs have no cytotoxicity on the human normal cell line Wi 38 at low concentrations, where the IC50 was 521 µg/mL. Furthermore, the antifungal activity of the Tri-CSZ NPs was evaluated. The antifungal results revealed that the Tri-CSZ NPs have promising antifungal activity against Mucor racemosus, Rhizopus microsporus, Lichtheimia corymbifera, and Syncephalastrum racemosum, where the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were 1.95, 7.81, 62.5, and 3.9 µg/mL, and the minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) were 250, 62.5, 125, and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, Tri-CSZ NPs were successfully mycosynthesized using A. niger, which have a promising antifungal activity against fungi causing mucormycosis.
Chlamydia Infection Remodels Host Cell Mitochondria to Alter Energy Metabolism and Subvert Apoptosis
Authors: Cheong Heng Choon , Sulaiman Sofiah , Looi Chung Yeng , Chang Li-Yen , Wong Won Fen
Published: May 2023

Chlamydia infection represents an important cause for concern for public health worldwide. Chlamydial infection of the genital tract in females is mostly asymptomatic at the early stage, often manifesting as mucopurulent cervicitis, urethritis, and salpingitis at the later stage; it has been associated with female infertility, spontaneous abortion, ectopic pregnancy, and cervical cancer. As an obligate intracellular bacterium, Chlamydia depends heavily on host cells for nutrient acquisition, energy production, and cell propagation. The current review discusses various strategies utilized by Chlamydia in manipulating the cell metabolism to benefit bacterial propagation and survival through close interaction with the host cell mitochondrial and apoptotic pathway molecules.
Legume Overseeding and P Fertilization Increases Microbial Activity and Decreases the Relative Abundance of AM Fungi in Pampas Natural Pastures
Authors: Azziz Gastón , Frade Cristina , Igual José M. , del Pino Amabelia , Lezama Felipe , Valverde Ángel
Published: May 2023

Natural grasslands provide a valuable resource for livestock grazing. In many parts of South America, legume overseeding and P fertilization are commonly used to enhance primary productivity. The effect of this practice on the plant community is well established. However, how this management regime affects the soil microbiome is less known. Here, to contribute to filling this knowledge gap, we analyzed the effect of Lotus subbiflorus overseeding, together with P fertilization, on soil microbial community diversity and activity in the Uruguayan Pampa region. The results showed that plant communities in the natural grassland paddocks significantly differed from those of the managed paddocks. In contrast, neither microbial biomass and respiration nor microbial diversity was significantly affected by management, although the structure of the bacterial and fungal communities were correlated with those of the plant communities. AM Fungi relative abundance, as well as several enzyme activities, were significantly affected by management. This could have consequences for the C, N, and P content of SOM in these soils, which in turn might affect SOM degradation.
Current Insights in Fungal Importance—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Corbu Viorica Maria , Gheorghe-Barbu Irina , Dumbravă Andreea Ștefania , Vrâncianu Corneliu Ovidiu , Șesan Tatiana Eugenia
Published: May 2023

Besides plants and animals, the Fungi kingdom describes several species characterized by various forms and applications. They can be found in all habitats and play an essential role in the excellent functioning of the ecosystem, for example, as decomposers of plant material for the cycling of carbon and nutrients or as symbionts of plants. Furthermore, fungi have been used in many sectors for centuries, from producing food, beverages, and medications. Recently, they have gained significant recognition for protecting the environment, agriculture, and several industrial applications. The current article intends to review the beneficial roles of fungi used for a vast range of applications, such as the production of several enzymes and pigments, applications regarding food and pharmaceutical industries, the environment, and research domains, as well as the negative impacts of fungi (secondary metabolites production, etiological agents of diseases in plants, animals, and humans, as well as deteriogenic agents).
Belgian Anopheles plumbeus Mosquitoes Are Competent for Japanese Encephalitis Virus and Readily Feed on Pigs, Suggesting a High Vectorial Capacity
Authors: Van den Eynde Claudia , Sohier Charlotte , Matthijs Severine , De Regge Nick
Published: May 2023

Anopheles plumbeus, a day-active mosquito known to feed aggressively on humans, was reported as a nuisance species near an abandoned pigsty in Belgium. Since Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is an emerging zoonotic flavivirus which uses pigs as amplification hosts, we investigated (1) whether An. plumbeus would feed on pigs and (2) its vector competence for JEV, to investigate whether this species could be a potential vector. Three- to seven-day-old F0-generation adult mosquitoes, emerged from field-collected larvae, were fed on a JEV genotype 3 Nakayama strain spiked blood meal. Blood-fed mosquitoes were subsequently incubated for 14 days at two temperature conditions: a constant 25 °C and a 25/15 °C day/night temperature gradient. Our results show that An. plumbeus is a competent vector for JEV at the 25 °C condition and this with an infection rate of 34.1%, a dissemination rate of 67.7% and a transmission rate of 14.3%. The vector competence showed to be influenced by temperature, with a significantly lower dissemination rate (16.7%) and no transmission when implementing the temperature gradient. Moreover, we demonstrated that An. plumbeus readily feeds on pigs when the opportunity occurs. Therefore, our results suggest that Belgian An. plumbeus mosquitoes may play an important role in the transmission of JEV upon an introduction into our region if temperatures increase with climate change.