bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative Nesting Strategies of Polistine Wasps in a Subtropical Locale
Authors: Nacko Scott , Hall Mark A. , Henderson Gregg
Published: January 2022

Phylogenetic studies suggest that historically all paper wasps (Vespidae: Polistinae) in North America have tropical origins, but some species have adapted to survive temperate conditions. Subtropical climates, which are intermediate between temperate and tropical, allow a unique opportunity to study ancestral traits which can be retained or lost within populations, and ultimately elucidate the process of social wasp evolution. We investigated the phenology of paper wasps at study sites in subtropical Baton Rouge, USA, through nest searching and monitoring of nest parameters throughout the warm season (March–October). Across the year, two periods of nest initiation occurred: from March–May (early season nests, i.e., before the summer solstice), and from July–September (late season nests, after the solstice). We observed 240 Polistes nests from six species, of which 50.8% were initiated in early season and 49.2% in late season. In contrast, Mischocyttarus mexicanus rarely built late season nests and had longer early season colony duration than Polistes bellicosus and P. dorsalis, which built more nests in the late season than early. Across all species, late season nests had significantly shorter colony duration (~87.6 days) than early season nests (~166 days), and only P. bellicosus had fewer adults at peak population in late season nests than in early season nests. Results indicate both a bivoltine colony cycle in Polistes of subtropical climates, as well as differences in nesting strategies between genera.
Within-Plant Distribution of Two-Spotted Spider Mites, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), on Strawberries: Decision of an Optimal Sampling Unit
Authors: Choi Yong-Seok , Kim Min-Jung , Baek Sunghoon
Published: January 2022

It is known that two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), a major pest of strawberry, is difficult to manage. This study was conducted to determine the optimal sampling unit to increase management efficiency of T. urticae in strawberries. The sampling unit was determined by characterizing within-strawberry distribution of T. urticae and by comparing coefficient of variation (CV) and correlation coefficient (r2) among potential sampling units. There was a significant (p < 0.05) difference in densities within a strawberry according to the leaf age. However, there was no significant difference in its density within a trifoliate leaf. More T. urticae were found on young-fully-opened (moderately old) leaves than on young and old ones. Moreover, these leaves had lower CV and r2 values than others. More specifically, optimal sampling units of T. urticae were fifth, fifth or sixth, and sixth oldest leaves for motiles (immatures and adults), all stages (motiles and eggs), and eggs, respectively. The required sampling number should be determined depending on the density. However, for management purposes, one and two leaflets would be acceptable for eggs and motiles, respectively. By using this small number of suitable sampling unit, the sampling and management for T. urticae in strawberries could be more efficient than before.
Correlation-Based Network Analysis of the Influence of Bemisia tabaci Feeding on Photosynthesis and Foliar Sugar and Starch Composition in Soybean
Authors: Schutze Inana X. , Yamamoto Pedro T. , Malaquias José B. , Herritt Matthew , Thompson Alison , Merten Paul , Naranjo Steve E.
Published: January 2022

Bemisia tabaci (MEAM1) represents a species of economic importance in soybean. One of the obstacles to the management of B. tabaci is the quantification of damage by the pest because damage is indirectly inferred through losses in productivity. The objective of this study was to characterize the influence of B. tabaci feeding on soybean by assessing effects on photosynthetic parameters and the sugar and starch content of soybean leaves. The goal was to identify the optimal parameter to directly quantify pest damage on crop yield. Correlation networks were created among data on sugar content (fructose, glucose, and sucrose), starch and photosynthetic parameters (initial fluorescence, performance index on absorption basis, and turn-over number), and the number of nymphs at each of three infestations level (low, medium, and high) during both the vegetative and reproductive stage of the crop. In general, nymphs were more abundant during the vegetative stage. Starch content was strongly correlated with nymph density. A strong positive correlation was observed between fructose and nymph density during the vegetative stage. Among the photosynthetic parameters, the turn-over number N was positively correlated with nymph density at a low-infestation level and negatively correlated with nymphs when they occurred at a high-infestation level. B. tabaci feeding affected the plant’s physiology and its interaction is reflected in part by the relationships among photosynthetic parameters as well as the levels of sugars and starch. This understanding might be useful in developing better monitoring tools for pest management.
Climate Change Impacts on the Potential Distribution of Apocheima cinerarius (Erschoff) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Ding Weicheng , Li Hongyu , Wen Junbao
Published: January 2022

Among the impacts of ongoing and projected climate change are shifts in the distribution and severity of insect pests. Projecting those impacts is necessary to ensure effective pest management in the future. Apocheima cinerarius (Erschoff) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) is an important polyphagous forest pest in China where causes huge economic and ecological losses in 20 provinces. Under historical climatic conditions, the suitable areas for A. cinerarius in China are mainly in the northern temperate zone (30–50° N) and the southern temperate zone (20–60° S). Using the CLIMEX model, the potential distribution of the pest in China and globally, both historically and under climate change, were estimated. Suitable habitats for A. cinerarius occur in parts of all continents. With climate change, its potential distribution extends northward in China and generally elsewhere in the northern hemisphere, although effects vary depending on latitude. In other areas of the world, some habitats become less suitable for the species. Based on the simulated growth index in CLIMEX, the onset of A. cinerarius would be earlier under climate change in some of its potential range, including Spain and Korea. Measures should anticipate the need for prevention and control of A. cinerarius in its potential extended range in China and globally.
Inhibition of Zoonotic Pathogens Naturally Found in Pig Manure by Black Soldier Fly Larvae and Their Intestine Bacteria
Authors: Elhag Osama , Zhang Yuanpu , Xiao Xiaopeng , Cai Minmin , Zheng Longyu , Jordan Heather R. , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , Huang Feng , Yu Ziniu , Zhang Jibin
Published: January 2022

Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae are often exposed to organic waste which harbors abundant zoonotic pathogens. We investigated the ability of BSF larvae to inhibit the zoonotic pathogens naturally found in pig manure. The zoonotic pathogens populations were detected by using selective medium during the conversion. Results showed that the viability of the zoonotic pathogens in pig manure was significantly affected. After eight days of conversion, the Coliform populations were undetected, and Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp. decreased significantly on the eighth day. Antimicrobial assays of the purified recombinant defensin-like peptide 4 (DLP4) showed that this peptide exhibits inhibitory activity against S. aureus, Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium, and Escherichia coli in vitro. Bacteria BSF-CL and BSF-F were isolated from the larvae gut, and both inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli, but Salmonella spp. was sensitive to the BSF-CL strain (but not to the BSF-F strain). The results from our experiments indicate that BSF larvae are capable of functionally inhibiting potential zoonotic pathogens in pig manure through a variety of mechanisms including antimicrobial peptides expression and the gut associate microorganisms. This study provides a theoretical basis for further study on the combined mechanism of BSF larvae immunity and its gut microbes against the zoonotic pathogens in pig manure.
A Single Center Study on the Risks of Peri-Intervention Stroke in Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR) and Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Repair (EVAR)
Authors: Chusooth Jirayoot , Kongkamol Chanon , Suwannanon Ruedeekorn , Premprabha Dhanakom , Chittithavorn Voravit , Benjhawaleemas Pannawit , Sriplung Hutcha , Sathirapanya Pornchai
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: The risk factors of peri-intervention stroke (PIS) in thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and endovascular abdominal aortic repair (EVAR) are different. This study aimed to compare the risks of PIS in both interventions. (2) Methods: Patients who had suffered a PIS related to TEVAR or EVAR from January 2008 to June 2015 in Songklanagarind Hospital were selected as the cases, while patients who had not suffered PIS were randomly selected to create a 1:4 case: control ratio for analysis. The associations between the factors from pre- to post-intervention and PISs in TEVAR or EVAR cases were analyzed by univariable analysis (p < 0.1). The independent risks of PIS were identified by multivariable analysis and presented in odds ratios (p < 0.05). (3) Results: A total of 17 (2.2%) out of 777 patients who had undergone TEVAR or EVAR experienced PIS, of which 9/518 (1.7%) and 8/259 (3.1%) cases were in TEVAR and EVAR groups, respectively. PIS developed within the first 24 h in nine (52.9%) cases. Large vessel ischemic stroke or watershed infarctions were the most common etiologies of PIS. The independent risks of PIS were the volume of intra-intervention blood loss (1.99 (1.88–21.12), p < 0.001) in the TEVAR-related PIS, and intervention time (2.16 (1.95–2.37), p = 0.010) and post-intervention hyperglycemia (18.60 (1.60–216.06), p = 0.001) in the EVAR-related PIS. There were no differences in the rate of PIS among the operators, intervention techniques, and status of the interventions performed. (4) Conclusion: The risks of PIS in TEVAR or EVAR in our center were different and possibly independent of the operator expertise and intervention techniques.
Axillary Lymphadenopathy on Ultrasound after COVID-19 Vaccination and Its Influencing Factors: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Park Ji Yeon , Lee Ji Young , Yi Seong Yoon
Published: January 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the incidence of axillary lymphadenopathy on ultrasound after COVID-19 vaccination and to investigate the factors affecting lymphadenopathy. Methods: We evaluated patients who had received a COVID-19 vaccination within 12 weeks before an ultrasound examination between August and October 2021. The incidence of vaccine-related ipsilateral axillary lymphadenopathy was evaluated using ultrasound. Age, sex, presence of axillary symptoms, injection site, vaccine type, interval from vaccination, and dose were compared between the groups with and without axillary lymphadenopathy. Results: We included 413 patients, 202 (49%) of whom showed axillary lymphadenopathy on ultrasound after COVID-19 vaccination. Age, interval from vaccine, vaccine brand, vaccine type, dose, and symptom were significantly different between the lymphadenopathy and non-lymphadenopathy groups (p < 0.001), while the injection site and sex were not. Receiving an mRNA vaccine was the most important factor for axillary lymphadenopathy (p < 0.001), followed by intervals of 1–14 (p < 0.001) and 15–28 days (p < 0.001), younger age (p = 0.006), and first dose (p = 0.045). Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccine-related axillary lymphadenopathy on ultrasound is common. mRNA type, an interval of 4 weeks, younger age, and first dose were the important factors. Breast clinicians should be well aware of these side effects when performing imaging examinations and provide accurate information to patients.
Correlation between Hyperkalemia and the Duration of Several Hospitalizations in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Calabrese Vincenzo , Cernaro Valeria , Battaglia Valeria , Gembillo Guido , Longhitano Elisa , Siligato Rossella , Sposito Giovanna , Ferlazzo Guido , Santoro Domenico
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: This observational study aimed to verify the association between serum potassium levels and hospitalization days in patients with chronic kidney disease in a follow up of nine months. (2) Methods: Patients with chronic kidney disease were divided into group A (180 patients, potassium ≤ 5.1 mEq/L) and B (90 patients, potassium > 5.1 mEq/L). Student’s t-test, Mann–Whitney test, Pearson’s Chi-Square test, Pearson/Spearman’s correlation test and linear regression test were performed in the entire sample and in stage-G4/5 subsample. (3) Results: Groups A and B differed for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (34.89 (IQR, 16.24–57.98) vs. 19.8 (IQR, 10.50–32.50) mL/min/1.73 m2; p < 0.0001), hemoglobin (11.64 ± 2.20 vs. 10.97 ± 2.19 g/dL, p = 0.048), sum of hospitalization days (8 (IQR, 6–10) vs. 11 (IQR, 7–15) days; p < 0.0001) and use of angiotensin II receptor blockers (40.2% vs. 53.3%; p = 0.010). Considering patients with eGFR 6–30 mL/min/1.73 m2, differences in the sum of hospitalization days were confirmed. Multivariable regression analysis showed that hyperkalemia is an independent risk factor of increased hospital length. In stage G4-G5, regression analysis showed that hyperkalemia is the only independent risk factor (β = 2.93, 95% confidence interval, 0.077–5.794, p = 0.044). (4) Conclusions: We observed significantly greater odds of increased length of hospital stay among patients with higher potassium, mostly in stages G4–G5 chronic kidney disease.
Everolimus Reduces Cancer Incidence and Improves Patient and Graft Survival Rates after Kidney Transplantation: A Multi-Center Study
Authors: Imamura Ryoichi , Tanaka Ryo , Taniguchi Ayumu , Nakazawa Shigeaki , Kato Taigo , Yamanaka Kazuaki , Namba-Hamano Tomoko , Kakuta Yoichi , Abe Toyofumi , Tsutahara Koichi , Takao Tetsuya , Kishikawa Hidefumi , Nonomura Norio
Published: January 2022

Kidney transplantation can prevent renal failure and associated complications in patients with end-stage renal disease. Despite the good quality of life, de novo cancers after kidney transplantation are a major complication impacting survival and there is an urgent need to establish immunosuppressive protocols to prevent de novo cancers. We conducted a multi-center retrospective study of 2002 patients who underwent kidney transplantation between 1965 and 2020 to examine patient and graft survival rates and cumulative cancer incidence in the following groups categorized based on specific induction immunosuppressive therapies: group 1, antiproliferative agents and steroids; group 2, calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), antiproliferative agents and steroids; group 3, CNIs, mycophenolate mofetil, and steroids; and group 4, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors including everolimus, CNIs, mycophenolate mofetil, and steroids. The patient and graft survival rates were significantly higher in groups 3 and 4. The cumulative cancer incidence rate significantly increased with the use of more potent immunosuppressants, and the time to develop cancer was shorter. Only one patient in group 4 developed de novo cancer. Potent immunosuppressants might improve graft survival rate while inducing de novo cancer after kidney transplantation. Our data also suggest that everolimus might suppress cancer development after kidney transplantation.
Caregivers’ View of Socio-Medical Care in the Terminal Phase of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis—How Can We Improve Holistic Care in ALS?
Authors: Linse Katharina , Aust Elisa , Günther René , Hermann Andreas
Published: January 2022

Multidimensional socio-medical care with an early integration of palliative principles is strongly recommended in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but provided inconsistently. We conducted telephone interviews with 49 former caregivers of deceased ALS patients to examine their experience of care in the terminal phase including caregiver burden. Patients who received specialized palliative care (45% of patients) were more likely to die at home (p = 0.004) and without burdening symptoms (p = 0.021). The majority of caregivers (86%) reported deficits in socio-medical care. Most frequently mentioned were problems receiving medical aids (45%) and a lack of caregiver support (35%). A higher level of deficits experienced by caregivers was associated with negative health outcomes on the side of the caregivers (reported by 57% of them; p = 0.002) and stronger caregiver burden (p = 0.004). To provide good quality of dying to patients and reduce the burden on caregivers, multidimensional—including palliative—care in ALS urgently needs to be strengthened in the healthcare structures.
Extra-Intestinal Manifestations of Celiac Disease: What Should We Know in 2022?
Authors: Durazzo Marilena , Ferro Arianna , Brascugli Isabella , Mattivi Simone , Fagoonee Sharmila , Pellicano Rinaldo
Published: January 2022

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic, small-intestinal, immune-mediated enteropathy due to gluten exposition in genetically predisposed individuals. It occurs in about 1% of the population and often remains an underdiagnosed condition. This could be due to the fact that the adult population often lacks the classical signs and symptoms of CD, manifesting only atypical symptoms. In this review we analyzed the main extra-intestinal manifestations of CD which include cutaneous and endocrinological disorders, abnormal liver function tests, and neuropsychiatric features. When CD is not diagnosed and therefore is not treated with a gluten-free diet (GFD), it can predispose to severe complications, not only gastrointestinal. Thus, it is important for clinicians to quickly recognize the atypical manifestations of CD, considering that an early diagnosis can significantly impact on a patient’s prognosis.
Adjunctive Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis during Primary PCI for ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction with High Thrombus Burden
Authors: Noma Satsuki , Miyachi Hideki , Fukuizumi Isamu , Matsuda Junya , Sangen Hideto , Kubota Yoshiaki , Imori Yoichi , Saiki Yoshiyuki , Hosokawa Yusuke , Tara Shuhei , Tokita Yukichi , Akutsu Koichi , Shimizu Wataru , Yamamoto Takeshi , Takano Hitoshi
Published: January 2022

Background: High coronary thrombus burden has been associated with unfavorable outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the optimal management of which has not yet been established. Methods: We assessed the adjunctive catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with STEMI and high thrombus burden. CDT was defined as intracoronary infusion of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA; monteplase). Results: Among the 1849 consecutive patients with STEMI, 263 had high thrombus burden. Moreover, 41 patients received t-PA (CDT group), whereas 222 did not receive it (non-CDT group). No significant differences in bleeding complications and in-hospital and long-term mortalities were observed (9.8% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.53; 7.3% vs. 2.3%, p = 0.11; and 12.6% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.84, CDT vs. non-CDT). In patients who underwent antecedent aspiration thrombectomy during PCI (75.6% CDT group and 87.4% non-CDT group), thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade 2 or 3 flow rate after thrombectomy was significantly lower in the CDT group than in the non-CDT group (32.2% vs. 61.0%, p < 0.01). However, the final rates improved without significant difference (90.3% vs. 97.4%, p = 0.14). Conclusions: Adjunctive CDT appears to be tolerated and feasible for high thrombus burden. Particularly, it may be an option in cases with failed aspiration thrombectomy.
Evaluation of Brace Treatment Using the Soft Brace Spinaposture: A Four-Years Follow-Up
Authors: Wong Christian , Andersen Thomas B.
Published: January 2022

The braces of today are constructed to correct the frontal plane deformity of idiopathic adolescent scoliosis (AIS). The Spinaposture brace© (Spinaposture Aps, Copenhagen, Denmark) is a soft-fabric brace for AIS and is designed to enhance rotational axial stability by inducing a sagittal plane kyphotic correction. This prospective observational study evaluated the brace in fifteen patients with AIS. The initial average CA was 16.8° (SD: 2.8). They were followed prospectively every 3 to 6 months during their brace usage until skeletal maturity of 25 months and at long-term follow-up of 44 months. In- and out-of-brace radiographs were performed in six subjects at inclusion. This resulted in an immediate in-brace correction of 25.3 percent in CA (14.3°→10.8°) and induced a kyphotic effect of 14.9 percent (40.8°→47.9°). The average in-brace improvement at first follow-up was 4.5° in CA, and the CA at skeletal maturity was 11° (SD: 7.4°) and long-term 12.0° (SD: 6.8°). In conclusion, the Spinaposture brace© had an immediate in-brace deformity correction and a thoracic kyphotic effect. At skeletal maturity, the deformities improved more than expected when compared to that of the natural history/observation and similar to that of other soft braces. No long-term deformity progression was seen. To substantiate these findings, stronger designed studies with additional subjects are needed.
Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography Analysis of a Selected Eye’s Anterior Segment Parameters in Patients with Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome
Authors: Dembski Michał , Nowińska Anna , Ulfik-Dembska Klaudia , Wylęgała Edward
Published: January 2022

Background: Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) is a systemic, age-related disorder characterized by the production and accumulation of pseudoexfoliation material. To date, detailed characteristics have not been published regarding the iridocorneal angle and cornea in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome determined through swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). Methods: A total of 150 eyes of patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (ages 69–86 years) and 166 eyes in a control group (ages 54–79 years) were analyzed. Results: The central corneal thickness in the PEX group was 549.56 μm and was slightly (insignificantly) higher than that of the control group (540.56 µm). The anterior chamber of the eye was visibly shallower in patients with PEX syndrome than in those of the control group (2.49 mm vs. 3.07 mm; p < 0.001). The Fourier analysis parameters of the cornea showed multiple differences between the PEX and control groups. With respect to iris area, the parameters showed statistically significant differences between the PEX and control groups in all four quadrants of the eye. No statistical significance was found in the PEX group for the iridocorneal angle parameters, or corneal and lens parameters depending on gender and age. Conclusions: PEX syndrome is characterized by a significant impact on the anterior eye segment, including higher anterior and posterior keratometric values, lower anterior chamber depth, higher iris thickness, and narrower angle parameters. The characteristic anterior eye segment features of PEX syndrome can be detected using SS-OCT, which could potentially assist clinicians in properly managing the disease.
Temporal Artery Vascular Diseases
Authors: Greigert Hélène , Ramon André , Tarris Georges , Martin Laurent , Bonnotte Bernard , Samson Maxime
Published: January 2022

In the presence of temporal arteritis, clinicians often refer to the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). However, differential diagnoses should also be evoked because other types of vascular diseases, vasculitis or not, may affect the temporal artery. Among vasculitis, Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is probably the most common, and typically affects the peri-adventitial small vessel of the temporal artery and sometimes mimics giant cell arteritis, however, other symptoms are frequently associated and more specific of ANCA-associated vasculitis prompt a search for ANCA. The Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) can cause temporal arteritis as well. Some infections can also affect the temporal artery, primarily an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which has an arterial tropism that may play a role in triggering giant cell arteritis. Drugs, mainly checkpoint inhibitors that are used to treat cancer, can also trigger giant cell arteritis. Furthermore, the temporal artery can be affected by diseases other than vasculitis such as atherosclerosis, calcyphilaxis, aneurysm, or arteriovenous fistula. In this review, these different diseases affecting the temporal artery are described.
Parents’ Perspectives on Counseling for Fetal Heart Disease: What Matters Most?
Authors: Kovacevic Alexander , Wacker-Gussmann Annette , Bär Stefan , Elsässer Michael , Mohammadi Motlagh Aida , Ostermayer Eva , Oberhoffer-Fritz Renate , Ewert Peter , Gorenflo Matthias , Starystach Sebastian
Published: January 2022

After diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD) in the fetus, effective counseling is considered mandatory. We sought to investigate which factors, including parental social variables, significantly affect counseling outcome. A total of n = 226 parents were recruited prospectively from four national tertiary medical care centers. A validated questionnaire was used to measure counseling success and the effects of modifiers. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the data. Parental perception of interpersonal support by the physician (β = 0.616 ***, p = 0.000), counseling in easy-to-understand terms (β = 0.249 ***, p = 0.000), and a short period of time between suspicion of fetal CHD, seeing a specialist and subsequent counseling (β = 0.135 **, p = 0.006) significantly improve “overall counseling success”. Additional modifiers (e.g., parental native language and age) influence certain subdimensions of counseling such as “trust in medical staff” (language effect: β = 0.131 *, p = 0.011) or “perceived situational control” (age effect: β = 0.166 *, p = 0.010). This study identifies independent factors that significantly affect counseling outcome overall and its subdimensions. In combination with existing recommendations our findings may contribute to more effective parental counseling. We further conclude that implementing communication skills training for specialists should be considered essential.
Pre-Existing Hypertension Is Related with Disproportions in T-Lymphocytes in Older Age
Authors: Tylutka Anna , Morawin Barbara , Gramacki Artur , Zembron-Lacny Agnieszka
Published: January 2022

Age-related immune deficiencies increase the risk of comorbidities and mortality. This study evaluated immunosenescence patterns by flow cytometry of naïve and memory T cell subpopulations and the immune risk profile (IRP), expressed as the CD4/CD8 ratio and IgG CMV related to comorbidities. The disproportions in naïve and memory T cells, as well as in the CD4/CD8 ratio, were analysed in 99 elderly individuals (71.9 ± 5.8 years) diagnosed with hypertension (n = 51) or without hypertension (n = 48), using an eight-parameter flow cytometer. The percentage of CD4+ T lymphocytes was significantly higher in hypertensive than other individuals independently from CMV infections, with approximately 34% having CD4/CD8 > 2.5, and only 4% of the elderly with hypertension having CD4/CD8 < 1. The elderly with a normal BMI demonstrated the CD4/CD8 ratio ≥ 1 or ≤ 2.5, while overweight and obese participants showed a tendency to an inverted CD4/CD8 ratio. CD4/CD8 ratio increased gradually with age and reached the highest values in participants aged >75 years. The decline in CD4+ naïve T lymphocytes was more prominent in IgG CMV+ men when compared to IgG CMV+ women. The changes in naïve and memory T lymphocyte population, CD4/CD8, and CMV seropositivity included in IRP are important markers of health status in the elderly that are dependent on hypertension.
Correction: Terpstra et al. Prevalence of Hangover Resistance According to Two Methods for Calculating Estimated Blood Alcohol Concentration (eBAC). J. Clin. Med. 2020, 9, 2823
Authors: Terpstra Chantal , Scholey Andrew , Verster Joris C. , Benson Sarah
Published: January 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to the original article [...]
A SiO2/pHEMA-Based Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic Network Composite for Dental Restorative Materials
Authors: Ikeda Hiroshi , Kawajiri Yohei , Sodeyama Minako Kibune , Yano Haruka Takesue , Nagamatsu Yuki , Masaki Chihiro , Hosokawa Ryuji , Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: January 2022

SiO2-poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA)-based composites have been widely used as biomaterials owing to their biocompatibility. However, they have not yet been applied as tooth restorative materials because of their poor mechanical properties. In the present paper, we develop a novel SiO2/pHEMA-based composite with a polymer-infiltrated network (PICN) structure for use in dental restorative materials. A mixture of SiO2 nanoparticles and a poly(vinyl alcohol) binder was sintered at 950 °C to fabricate a porous SiO2 block. A monomer mixture containing 70 wt%-HEMA/30 wt%-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and a benzoyl peroxide initiator was infiltrated into the porous SiO2 block and heat-polymerized to fabricate the SiO2/pHEMA-based composite with a PICN structure. The composite was characterized according to its mechanical properties, surface free energy, and bonding properties with a dental adhesive. The flexural strength was 112.5 ± 18.7 MPa, the flexural modulus was 13.6 ± 3.4 GPa, and the Vickers hardness was 168.2 ± 16.1, which are similar values to human teeth. The surface free energy of the polar component of the composite was 19.6 ± 2.5 mN/m, suggesting that this composite has an active surface for bonding with the adhesive. The composite bonded well to the adhesive, in the presence of a silane coupling agent. The SiO2/pHEMA-based composite was demonstrated to be a potential candidate for dental restorative materials.
Integrating Soft Hydrogel with Nanostructures Reinforces Stem Cell Adhesion and Differentiation
Authors: Yin Bohan , Yang Hongrong , Yang Mo
Published: January 2022

Biophysical cues can regulate stem cell behaviours and have been considered as critical parameters of synthetic biomaterials for tissue engineering. In particular, hydrogels have been utilized as promising biomimetic and biocompatible materials to emulate the microenvironment. Therefore, well-defined mechanical properties of a hydrogel are important to direct desirable phenotypes of cells. Yet, limited research pays attention to engineering soft hydrogel with improved cell adhesive property, which is crucial for stem cell differentiation. Herein, we introduce silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) onto the surface of methacrylated hyaluronic (MeHA) hydrogel to manipulate the presentation of cell adhesive ligands (RGD) clusters, while remaining similar bulk mechanical properties (2.79 ± 0.31 kPa) to that of MeHA hydrogel (3.08 ± 0.68 kPa). RGD peptides are either randomly decorated in the MeHA hydrogel network or on the immobilized SiO2 NPs (forming MeHA–SiO2). Our results showed that human mesenchymal stem cells exhibited a ~1.3-fold increase in the percentage of initial cell attachment, a ~2-fold increase in cell spreading area, and enhanced expressions of early-stage osteogenic markers (RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase) for cells undergoing osteogenic differentiation with the osteogenic medium on MeHA–SiO2 hydrogel, compared to those cultured on MeHA hydrogel. Importantly, the cells cultivated on MeHA–SiO2 expressed a ~5-fold increase in nuclear localization ratio of the yes-associated protein, which is known to be mechanosensory in stem cells, compared to the cells cultured on MeHA hydrogel, thereby promoting osteogenic differentiation of stem cells. These findings demonstrate the potential use of nanomaterials into a soft polymeric matrix for enhanced cell adhesion and provide valuable guidance for the rational design of biomaterials for implantation.
Physical Characterization and In Vitro Toxicity Test of PDMS Synthesized from Low-Grade D4 Monomer as a Vitreous Substitute in the Human Eyes
Authors: Auliya Diba Grace , Setiadji Soni , Fitrilawati Fitrilawati , Risdiana Risdiana
Published: January 2022

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is one of the most superior materials and has been used as a substitute for vitreous humor in the human eye. In previous research, we have succeeded in producing PDMS with low and medium viscosity using octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) monomer with a low grade of 96%. Both have good physical properties and are comparable to commercial product PDMS and PDMS synthesized using D4 monomer with a high grade of 98%. An improvement of the synthesis process is needed to ensure that PDMS synthesized from a low-grade D4 monomer under specific synthesis conditions can repeatedly produce high-quality PDMS. Apart from good physical properties, the PDMS as a substitute for vitreous humor must also be safe and not cause other disturbances to the eyes. Here, we reported the process of synthesizing and characterizing the physical properties of low- and medium-viscosity PDMS using a low-grade D4 monomer. We also reported for the first time the in vitro toxicity test using the Hen’s Egg Test Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) test method. We have succeeded in obtaining PDMS with viscosities of 1.15 Pa.s, 1.17 Pa.s, and 1.81 Pa.s. All samples have good physical properties such as refractive index, surface tension, and functional groups that are similar to commercial PDMS. The HET-CAM test results showed that all samples did not show signs of irritation indicating that samples were non-toxic. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that PDMS synthesized from a low-grade D4 monomer under specific synthesis conditions by the ROP method is very safe and has the potential to be developed as a substitute for vitreous humor in human eyes.
Coronal Shear Fractures of the Distal Humerus
Authors: Bellato Enrico , Giai Via Riccardo , Bachman Daniel , Zorzolo Ilaria , Marmotti Antonio , Castoldi Filippo
Published: January 2022

Coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus are rare, frequently comminuted, and are without consensus for treatment. The aim of this paper is to review the current concepts on the diagnosis, classification, treatment options, surgical approaches, and complications of capitellar and trochlear fractures. Computed Tomography (CT) scans, along with the Dubberley classification, are extremely helpful in the decision-making process. Most of the fractures necessitate open reduction and internal fixation, although elbow arthroplasty is an option for comminuted fractures in the elderly low-demand patient. Stiffness is the most common complication after fixation, although reoperation is infrequent.
An Overview of X-ray Photon Counting Spectral Imaging (x-CSI) with a Focus on Gold Nanoparticle Quantification in Oncology
Authors: Pickford Scienti Oliver L. P. , Darambara Dimitra G.
Published: January 2022

This review article offers an overview of the differences between traditional energy integrating (EI) X-ray imaging and the new technique of X-ray photon counting spectral imaging (x-CSI). The review is motivated by the need to image gold nanoparticles (AuNP) in vivo if they are to be used clinically to deliver a radiotherapy dose-enhancing effect (RDEE). The aim of this work is to familiarise the reader with x-CSI as a technique and to draw attention to how this technique will need to develop to be of clinical use for the described oncological applications. This article covers the conceptual differences between x-CSI and EI approaches, the advantages of x-CSI, constraints on x-CSI system design, and the achievements of x-CSI in AuNP quantification. The results of the review show there are still approximately two orders of magnitude between the AuNP concentrations used in RDEE applications and the demonstrated detection limits of x-CSI. Two approaches to overcome this were suggested: changing AuNP design or changing x-CSI system design. Optimal system parameters for AuNP detection and general spectral performance as determined by simulation studies were different to those used in the current x-CSI systems, indicating potential gains that may be made with this approach.
How Do Roots Interact with Layered Soils?
Authors: Kemp Nina , Angelidakis Vasileios , Luli Saimir , Nadimi Sadegh
Published: January 2022

Vegetation alters soil fabric by providing biological reinforcement and enhancing the overall mechanical behaviour of slopes, thereby controlling shallow mass movement. To predict the behaviour of vegetated slopes, parameters representing the root system structure, such as root distribution, length, orientation and diameter, should be considered in slope stability models. This study quantifies the relationship between soil physical characteristics and root growth, giving special emphasis on (1) how roots influence the physical architecture of the surrounding soil structure and (2) how soil structure influences the root growth. A systematic experimental study is carried out using high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) to observe the root behaviour in layered soil. In total, 2 samples are scanned over 15 days, enabling the acquisition of 10 sets of images. A machine learning algorithm for image segmentation is trained to act at 3 different training percentages, resulting in the processing of 30 sets of images, with the outcomes prompting a discussion on the size of the training data set. An automated in-house image processing algorithm is employed to quantify the void ratio and root volume ratio. This script enables post processing and image analysis of all 30 cases within few hours. This work investigates the effect of stratigraphy on root growth, along with the effect of image-segmentation parameters on soil constitutive properties.
Development and Evaluation of the Ultrasonic Welding Process for Copper-Aluminium Dissimilar Welding
Authors: Silva Rafael Gomes Nunes , De Meester Sylvia , Faes Koen , De Waele Wim
Published: January 2022

The demand for joining dissimilar metals has exponentially increased due to the global concerns about climate change, especially for electric vehicles in the automotive industry. Ultrasonic welding (USW) surges as a very promising technique to join dissimilar metals, providing strength and electric conductivity, in addition to avoid metallurgical defects, such as the formation of intermetallic compounds, brittle phases and porosities. However, USW is a very sensitive process, which depends on many parameters. This work evaluates the impact of the process parameters on the quality of ultrasonic spot welds between copper and aluminium plates. The weld quality is assessed based on the tensile strength of the joints and metallographic examination of the weld cross-sections. Furthermore, the welding energy is examined for the different welding conditions. This is done to evaluate the influence of each parameter on the heat input resulting from friction at the weld interface and on the weld quality. From the obtained results, it was possible to optimise parameters to achieve satisfactory weld quality in 1.0 mm thick Al–Cu plate joints in terms of mechanical and metallurgical properties.
Fatigue Assessment of Moorings for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines by Advanced Spectral Analysis Methods
Authors: Piscopo Vincenzo , Scamardella Antonio , Rossi Giovanni Battista , Crenna Francesco , Berardengo Marta
Published: January 2022

The fatigue assessment of mooring lines for floating offshore wind turbines represents a challenging issue not only for the reliable design of the stationkeeping system but also for the economic impact on the installation and maintenance costs over the entire lifetime of the offshore wind farm. After a brief review about the state-of-art, the nonlinear time-domain hydrodynamic model of floating offshore wind turbines moored by chain cables is discussed. Subsequently, the assessment of the fatigue damage in the mooring lines is outlined, focusing on the combined-spectrum approach. The relevant fatigue parameters, due to the low- and wave-frequency components of the stress process, are estimated by two different methods. The former is based on the time-domain analysis of the filtered stress process time history. The latter, instead, is based on the spectral analysis of the stress process by two advanced methods, namely the Welch and Thomson ones. Subsequently, a benchmark study is performed, assuming as reference floating offshore wind turbine the OC4-DeepCWind semisubmersible platform, equipped with the 5 MW NREL wind turbine. The cumulative fatigue damage is determined for eight load conditions, including both power production and parked wind turbine situations. A comparative analysis between time-domain and spectral analysis methods is also performed. Current results clearly show that the endorsement of advanced spectral analysis methods can be helpful to improve the reliability of the fatigue life assessment of mooring lines.
Fish Composition and Diversity of Four Coral Reefs in the South China Sea Based on Hand-Line Catch
Authors: Li Yuanjie , Chen Zuozhi , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2022

To improve the overall understanding of the fish diversity and spatial patterns of major coral reefs in the South China Sea, fish assemblage composition, dominant species, biodiversity indices, and multivariate analysis of community structure were reported for four major coral reefs based on hand-line survey data in May and September 2018. A total of five orders, 21 families, 45 genera and 121 species of fish were recorded with Perciformes (78.5%) being the most diverse. The highest number (5) of dominant species was found near Chenhang Island while the lowest (2) number was detected at Zhubi Reef. The highest abundance index (7.21) occurred at Zhubi Reef, while the Shannon–Wiener diversity (4.80), Pielou’s evenness (0.81), and Simpson’s dominance (0.95) indexes were all highest at Qiliangyu Island. Based on cluster analysis and non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (NMDS), fish communities varied more spatially than seasonally. Our results led us to hypothesize that the habitat complexity and level of anthropogenic disturbance were the main factors affecting the composition of reef-dwelling fish on each coral reef. Topography was likely responsible for most variation in the spatial pattern of fish diversity.
Sea Surface Temperature Variability and Marine Heat Waves over the Aegean, Ionian, and Cretan Seas from 2008–2021
Authors: Androulidakis Yannis S. , Krestenitis Yannis N.
Published: January 2022

The sea surface temperature (SST) is an important factor and indicator of the sea water quality, with various ecological and anthropogenic implications. We used high-resolution satellite-derived SST data, in tandem with field observations and long-term meteorological data, to investigate the spatial and interannual SST variability over the Aegean, Ionian, and Cretan (AIC) Seas during the recent 14-year period (2008–2021). Increasing trends were identified for most of the sub-basins of the AIC Seas. The numbers and durations (days) of the marine heat waves (MHWs) have significantly increased, especially during the last quadrennial period (2018–2021). Changes have been detected in both the maximum and minimum values; however, the trend of the mean annual values is mainly associated with the interannual increases in the lowest values (weaker minima during the cold seasons). The interannual variability and the increasing positive trends of the air temperature are very similar to the SST variations, showing a 5-to-10-day lag between the seasonal time series of the two parameters for all regions; however, extreme atmospheric events (e.g., cold fronts or heat waves) have a more direct impact on the SST variability (zero lag). MHWs were more frequent over the northern Aegean Sea, especially in Thermaikos Gulf, which is characterized as a “hot spot” for MHWs. MHWs were rarer over the southern regions, especially over the southeastern Aegean and Cretan Seas. A stratified upper ocean, controlled by buoyant brackish plumes, such as the Black Sea Waters (BSW) in the northern Aegean, may increase the heat storage capacity of the surface water masses, contributing to the further warming of the ocean. This was the case in the summer of 2021, which was a unique year for the AIC Seas, and especially for the northern Aegean, which revealed the highest SST values among all the study years. The satellite-derived observations of the 2008–2021 period showed increasing trends for all coastal waters, strong trend slopes for most of the coasts of the northern Aegean and central Ionian Seas, and milder trend slopes in the eastern Aegean.
Research on the Construction of Typhoon Disaster Chain Based on Chinese Web Corpus
Authors: Liu Hongliang , Luo Nianxue , Zhao Qiansheng
Published: January 2022

China is one of the countries most affected by typhoon disasters. It is of great significance to study the mechanism of typhoon disasters and construct a typhoon disaster chain for emergency management and disaster reduction. The evolution process of typhoon disaster based on expert knowledge and historical disaster data has been summarized in previous studies, which relied too much on artificial experience while less in-depth consideration was given to the disaster exposure, the social environment, as well as the spatio-temporal factors. Hence, problems, such as incomplete content and inconsistent expression of typhoon disaster knowledge, have arisen. With the development of computer technology, massive Web corpus with numerous Web news and various improvised content on the social media platform, and ontology that enables consistent expression new light has been shed on the knowledge discovery of typhoon disaster. With the Chinese Web corpus as its source, this research proposes a method to construct a typhoon disaster chain so as to obtain disaster information more efficiently, explore the spatio-temporal trends of disasters and their impact on human society, and then comprehensively comprehend the process of typhoon disaster. First, a quintuple structure (Concept, Property, Relationship, Rule and Instance) is used to design the Typhoon Disaster Chain Ontology Model (TDCOM) which contains the elements involved in a typhoon disaster. Then, the information extraction process, regarded as a sequence labeling task in the present study, is combined with the BERT model so as to extract typhoon event-elements from the customized corpus. Finally, taking Typhoon Mangkhut as an example, the typical typhoon disaster chain is constructed by data fusion and structured expression. The results show that the methods presented in this research can provide scientific support for analyzing the evolution process of typhoon disasters and their impact on human society.
The Black Sea Physics Analysis and Forecasting System within the Framework of the Copernicus Marine Service
Authors: Ciliberti Stefania A. , Jansen Eric , Coppini Giovanni , Peneva Elisaveta , Azevedo Diana , Causio Salvatore , Stefanizzi Laura , Creti’ Sergio , Lecci Rita , Lima Leonardo , Ilicak Mehmet , Pinardi Nadia , Palazov Atanas
Published: January 2022

This work describes the design, implementation and validation of the Black Sea physics analysis and forecasting system, developed by the Black Sea Physics production unit within the Black Sea Monitoring and Forecasting Center as part of the Copernicus Marine Environment and Monitoring Service. The system provides analyses and forecasts of the temperature, salinity, sea surface height, mixed layer depth and currents for the whole Black Sea basin, excluding the Azov Sea, and has been operational since 2016. The system is composed of the NEMO (v 3.4) numerical model and an OceanVar scheme, which brings together real time observations (in-situ temperature and salinity profiles, sea level anomaly and sea surface temperature satellite data). An operational quality assessment framework is used to evaluate the accuracy of the products which set the basic standards for the future upgrades, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the model and the observing system in the Black Sea.