bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Subcutaneous Infliximab in Inflammatory Bowel Disease—Understanding Pharmacokinetics and Exposure Response Relationships in a New Era of Subcutaneous Biologics
Authors: Little Robert D. , Ward Mark G. , Wright Emily , Jois Asha J. , Boussioutas Alex , Hold Georgina L. , Gibson Peter R. , Sparrow Miles P.
Published: October 2022

CT-P13 is the first subcutaneous infliximab molecule approved for the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Compared to intravenous therapy, SC infliximab offers a range of practical, micro- and macroeconomic advantages. Data from the rheumatological literature suggest that subcutaneous CT-P13 may lead to superior disease outcomes in comparison to intravenous infliximab. Existing studies in IBD have focussed on pharmacokinetic comparisons and are inadequately powered to evaluate efficacy and safety differences between the two modes of administration. However, emerging clinical trial and real-world data support comparable clinical, biochemical, endoscopic and safety outcomes between subcutaneous and intravenous infliximab in both luminal Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Across the available data, subcutaneous CT-P13 provides relative pharmacokinetic stability and higher trough drug levels when compared to intravenous administration. The clinical impact of this observation on immunogenicity and treatment persistence is yet to be determined. Trough levels between the two methods of administration should not be compared in isolation as any subcutaneous advantage must be considered in the context of comparable total drug exposure and the theoretical disadvantage of lower peak concentrations compared to intravenous therapy. Furthermore, target drug levels for subcutaneous CT-P13 associated with remission are not known. In this review, we present the available literature surrounding the pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous CT-P13 in the context of therapeutic drug monitoring and highlight the potential significance of these observations on the clinical management of patients with IBD.
Implication of COVID-19 Pandemic on Adolescent Mental Health: An Analysis of the Psychiatric Counseling from the Emergency Room of an Italian University Hospital in the Years 2019–2021
Authors: Petruzzelli Maria Giuseppina , Furente Flora , Colacicco Giuseppe , Annecchini Federica , Margari Anna , Gabellone Alessandra , Margari Lucia , Matera Emilia
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Although the COVID-19 pandemic had profound consequences on youths’ mental health, few data are available about its longitudinal implications. Method: In this study, from 655 counseling requests by the Emergency Room (ER) of the University Hospital of Bari, we retrospectively examined 380 requests for psychiatric counseling of pediatric subjects, during the pre-pandemic, the first pandemic, and the second pandemic wave of COVID-19. Results: We found a significant upward trend between 2019 and 2021 for the counseling requests for acute psychopathological symptoms (p = 1.469 × 10−5), patients in adolescent age (p = 0.022), females (p = 0.004), and those taking psychotropic medications (p = 2.28 × 10−5). Moreover, a significant difference in the proportions of depression (p = 0.003), post traumatic (p = 0.047), somatic (p = 0.007) and psychotic symptoms (p = 0.048), and self-injuring behaviors (p = 0.044) was observed. The proportion of counseling for psychotic symptoms (p = 0.014) and self-injuring behaviors (p = 0.035) also showed an increasing trend over time, with self-harming behaviors becoming more severe and diversified in modalities. Discussion: The pandemic’s persistence over time may have had an impact on youth’s psychopathology, influencing the frequency, type, and complexity of mental health problems; as a result, it is vital to implement timely integrated interventions and find strategies to prevent self-harm, in particular with the identification of vulnerable categories of patients.
Safety, Feasibility and Technical Considerations from a Prospective, Observational Study—CIREL: Irinotecan-TACE for CRLM in 152 Patients
Authors: Helmberger Thomas , Lucatelli Pierleone , Pereira Philippe L. , Gjoreski Aleksandar , Jovanoska Ivona , Bansaghi Zoltan , Spiliopoulos Stavros , Carchesio Francesca , Arnold Dirk , Baierl Andreas , Zeka Bleranda , Kaufmann Nathalie C. , Taieb Julien , Iezzi Roberto
Published: October 2022

CIREL, a prospective, Europe-wide, observational study aimed to assess the real-world feasibility and tolerability of irinotecan-based transarterial chemoembolization (LP-irinotecan TACE) for unresectable colorectal cancer liver metastases with regard to the treatment plan and adverse events (AEs). CIREL enrolled 152 eligible patients (≥18 years) with liver-only or dominant metastases treated with LP-irinotecan TACE following a multidisciplinary tumor board decision. Data were prospectively collected for baseline, the number of planned and performed sessions, and technical information and safety according to CTCAE 4.03/5.0. Results from 351 analyzed treatment sessions showed technical success for 99% of sessions, and 121 patients (79%) completed all planned sessions. Further, 60% of sessions were performed using opioids, 4% intra-arterial anesthetics, and 25% both. Additionally, 60% of patients experienced at least one peri-interventional AE of any grade; 8% of grade 3–4. Occurrence of AEs was related to larger liver-involvement (p < 0.001), bi-lobar disease (p = 0.002), and larger beads (p < 0.001). Using corticosteroids together with antiemetics showed reduced and lower grade vomiting (p = 0.01). LP-irinotecan TACE was tolerated well and had a high proportion of completed treatment plans. This minimally invasive locoregional treatment can be used together with concomitant systemic therapy or ablation.
Management and Outcomes in the Elderly with Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes Admitted to Spoke Hospitals with No Catheterization Laboratory Facility
Authors: Mantovani Francesca , Campo Gianluca , Guerri Elisa , Manca Francesco , Calzolari Massimo , Tortorella Giovanni , D’Amore Sergio Musto , Pignatelli Gianluca , Guiducci Vincenzo , Navazio Alessandro
Published: October 2022

Background: Contemporary guidelines advocate for early invasive strategy with coronary angiography in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS). Still, the impact of an invasive strategy in older patients remains controversial and may be challenging in spoke hospitals with no catheterization laboratory (cath-lab) facility. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyse the characteristics and outcomes of patients ≥80 years old with NSTE-ACS admitted to spoke hospitals. Methods: Observational–retrospective study of all consecutive NSTE-ACS patients admitted to two spoke hospitals of our cardiology network, where a service strategy (same-day transfer between a spoke hospital and a hub centre with a cath-lab facility in order to perform coronary angiography) was available. Patients were followed up for 1 year after the admission date. Results: From 2013 to 2017, 639 patients were admitted for NSTE-ACS; of these, 181 (28%) were ≥80 years old (median 84, IQR 82–89) and represented the study cohort. When the invasive strategy was chosen (in 105 patients, or 58%), 98 patients (93%) were initially managed with a service strategy, whereas the remainder of the patients were transferred from the spoke hospital to the hub centre where they completed their hospital stay. Of the patients managed with the service strategy, a shift of strategy after the invasive procedure was necessary for 10 (10%). These patients remained in the hub centre, while the rest of the patients were sent back to the spoke hospitals, with no adverse events observed during the back transfer. The median time to access the cath-lab was 50 h (IQR 25–87), with 73 patients (70%) reaching the invasive procedure <72 h from hospital admission. A conservative strategy was associated with: older age, known CAD, clinical presentation with symptoms of LV dysfunction, lower EF, renal failure, higher GRACE score, presence of PAD and atrial fibrillation (all p < 0.03). At the 1-year follow-up, the overall survival was significantly higher in patients treated with an invasive strategy compared to patients managed conservatively (94% ± 2 vs. 54% ± 6, p < 0.001; HR: 10.4 [4.7–27.5] p < 0.001), even after adjustment for age, serum creatinine, known previous CAD and EF (adjusted HR: 2.0 [1.0–4.0]; p < 0.001). Conclusions: An invasive strategy may confer a survival benefit in the elderly with NSTE-ACS. The same-day transfer between a spoke hospital and a hub centre with a cath-lab facility (service strategy) is safe and may grant access to the cath-lab in a timely fashion, even for the elderly.
Remote Eradication of Bacteria on Orthopedic Implants via Delayed Delivery of Polycaprolactone Stabilized Polyvinylpyrrolidone Iodine
Authors: Wang Yikai , Teng Wangsiyuan , Zhang Zengjie , Ma Siyuan , Jin Zhihui , Zhou Xingzhi , Ye Yuxiao , Zhang Chongda , Gou Zhongru , Yu Xiaohua , Ye Zhaoming , Ren Yijun
Published: October 2022

Bacteria-associated late infection of the orthopedic devices would further lead to the failure of the implantation. However, present ordinary antimicrobial strategies usually deal with early infection but fail to combat the late infection of the implants due to the burst release of the antibiotics. Thus, to fabricate long-term antimicrobial (early antibacterial, late antibacterial) orthopedic implants is essential to address this issue. Herein, we developed a sophisticated MAO-I2-PCLx coating system incorporating an underlying iodine layer and an upper layer of polycaprolactone (PCL)-controlled coating, which could effectively eradicate the late bacterial infection throughout the implantation. Firstly, micro-arc oxidation was used to form a microarray tubular structure on the surface of the implants, laying the foundation for iodine loading and PCL bonding. Secondly, electrophoresis was applied to load iodine in the tubular structure as an efficient bactericidal agent. Finally, the surface-bonded PCL coating acts as a controller to regulate the release of iodine. The hybrid coatings displayed great stability and control release capacity. Excellent antibacterial ability was validated at 30 days post-implantation via in vitro experiments and in vivo rat osteomyelitis model. Expectedly, it can become a promising bench-to-bedside strategy for current infection challenges in the orthopedic field.
Experimental Study of Radial Distortion Compensation for Camera Submerged Underwater Using Open SaltWaterDistortion Data Set
Authors: Senshina Daria , Polevoy Dmitry , Ershov Egor , Kunina Irina
Published: October 2022

This paper describes a new open data set, consisting of images of a chessboard collected underwater with different refractive indices, which allows for investigation of the quality of different radial distortion correction methods. The refractive index is regulated by the degree of salinity of the water. The collected data set consists of 662 images, and the chessboard cell corners are manually marked for each image (for a total of 35,748 nodes). Two different mobile phone cameras were used for the shooting: telephoto and wide-angle. With the help of the collected data set, the practical applicability of the formula for correction of the radial distortion that occurs when the camera is submerged underwater was investigated. Our experiments show that the radial distortion correction formula makes it possible to correct images with high precision, comparable to the precision of classical calibration algorithms. We also show that this correction method is resistant to small inaccuracies in the indication of the refractive index of water. The data set, as well as the accompanying code, are publicly available.
Unraveling Macroplastic Pollution in Rural and Urban Beaches in Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape, Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Acot Frank T. , Sajorne Recca E. , Omar Nur-Ayn K. , Suson Peter D. , Rallos Lynn Esther E. , Bacosa Hernando P.
Published: October 2022

Plastic pollution in the ocean is an emerging environmental concern in the Philippines. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of macroplastics, composition of plastic litter, and the clean-coast index (CCI) of urban and rural beaches in Sarangani Bay. Plastic litter was collected by delineating a 100-m transecting line with three 4 m × 4 m quadrats. The density of macroplastic litter in urban areas (0.66 items m−2) was significantly higher than in rural areas (0.29 items m−2). The plastics sampled were predominantly food packaging, such as polyethylene bags, which are locally known as sando bags. The accumulation rate of macroplastic litter ranged from 0.07 items d−1 m−2 to 0.40 items d−1 m−2, in which urban beaches (0.25 items d−1 m−2) have a significantly higher accumulation rate than rural beaches (0.11 items d−1 m−2). Overall, the calculated CCI of the beaches of Sarangani Bay was categorized as clean to moderately clean for rural beaches and moderately clean to extremely dirty for urban beaches.
Wave Height Reduction Inside Pohang New Port, Korea, Due to the Construction of a Detached Breakwater
Authors: Ryu Kyong Ho , Jeong Weon Mu , Oh Jung-Eun , Baek Won-Dae , Chang Yeon S.
Published: October 2022

The effect of a detached breakwater, which was constructed to improve harbor tranquility inside Pohang New Port, was examined through the comparison of wave data measured before and after the construction of the breakwater. The observation data showed that the wave energy was effectively reduced by the breakwater, although the wave height measured outside the breakwater was higher after its construction. The wave energy was reduced in all of the measured wave-propagating directions, but it was also observed that the breakwater became less effective in protecting against northeastwaves than in protecting against NNE waves. The BOUSS-2D Boussinesq-type wave model was employed to analyze the pattern of wave propagation, showing that, before the breakwater’s construction, NE waves could directly enter the port, increasing the wave energy inside the port. After the breakwater’s construction, simulations showed that the detached breakwater effectively blocked the waves approaching the port from both the NNE and NE directions, although the wave heights of the waves from the extreme NE direction inside the port increased. Considering that the estimated probability of failing to preserve the port tranquility was only 0.2–0.5% for these extreme NE waves, it was concluded that no secondary structures were necessary, and the existing breakwater was sufficient for the protection of the port.
The Role of Preharvest Natural Infection and Toxin Contamination in Food and Feed Safety in Maize, South-East Hungary, 2014–2021
Authors: Mesterhazy Akos , Szieberth Denes , Tóth Eva Toldine , Nagy Zoltan , Szabó Balazs , Herczig Beata , Bors Istvan , Tóth Beata
Published: October 2022

Mycotoxins originating in the preharvest period represent a less studied research problem, even though they are of the utmost practical significance in maize production, determining marketability (within EU limits), and storage ability, competitiveness, and profit rate. In this study, 18–23 commercial hybrids were tested between 2014 and 2021. Natural infection from Fusarium spp. was higher than 1.5%, and for Aspergillus spp. this was normally 0.01% or 0, much lower than would be considered as severe infection. In spite of this, many hybrids provided far higher toxin contamination than regulations allow. The maximum preharvest aflatoxin B1 was in 2020 (at 2286 μg/kg), and, in several cases, the value was higher than 1000 μg/kg. The hybrid differences were large. In Hungary, the presence of field-originated aflatoxin B1 was continuous, with three AFB1 epidemics in the 8 years. The highest DON contamination was in 2014 (at 27 mg/kg), and a detectable DON level was found in every hybrid. FUMB1+B2 were the highest in 2014 (at 45.78 mg/kg). At these low infection levels, correlations between visual symptoms and toxin contaminations were mostly non-significant, so it is not feasible to draw a conclusion about toxin contamination from ear rot coverage alone. The toxin contamination of hybrids for a percentage of visual infection is highly variable, and only toxin data can decide about food safety. Hybrids with no visual symptoms and high AFB1 contamination were also identified. Preharvest control, including breeding and variety registration, is therefore of the utmost importance to all three pathogens. Even natural ear rot and toxin data do not prove differences in resistance, so a high ear rot or toxin contamination level should be considered as a risk factor for hybrids. The toxin control of freshly harvested grain is vital for separating healthy and contaminated lots. In addition, proper growing and storage conditions must be ensured to protect the feed safety of the grain.
Remission of Proteinuria in a Patient Affected by Crescentic IgA Nephropathy with Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis Treated by Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors: Casual or Causal Relationship?
Authors: De La Flor Merino José C. , Apaza Chávez Jacqueline , Valga Amado Francisco , Díaz Crespo Francisco , Justo Avila Pablo , Marschall Alexander , Cieza Terrones Michael , Núñez Ramos Patricia , Ruiz Cicero Elisa
Published: October 2022

Crescentic IgA nephropathy (IgAN) with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) is often associated with rapidly declining kidney function. Up to this date, specific therapy for crescentic IgAN is still unknown. Accumulating evidence suggests that sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) may have a role in standard therapy of glomerular diseases. However, it is unclear at what point in the natural history of specific glomerular diseases SGLT-2i can be beneficial. We report the clinical and histological features of a patient with crescentic IgAN that presented as an RPGN, who received intensive immunosuppression and renal replacement therapeutic (RRT). At the third month, the patient presented with significant improvement in his kidney function. At that point, we decided to start dapagliflozin in addition to his renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blocker, basing our decision on its proven renal benefits such as slowing the rate of decline in kidney function and reducing albuminuria. At the eighth month, the patient’s renal function gradually improved from serum Cr of 6.07 to 2.1 mg/dL; and urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) declined from 5655 mg/g to 200 mg/g. The use of SGLT-2i in primary and secondary nondiabetic glomerular disease appears promising. It is crucial and necessary to accumulate more evidence for a more complete understanding of the mechanisms of the actions of SGLT-2i in non-diabetic glomerular disease.
Characterizing Temporal Dynamics of Urban Heat Island in a Rapidly Expanding City: A 39 Years Study in Zhengzhou, China
Authors: Li Huawei , Jombach Sandor , Tian Guohang , Li Yuanzheng , Meng Handong
Published: October 2022

Extreme heat wave weather phenomena have erupted worldwide in recent years. The urban heat island (UHI) effect has exacerbated urban heat waves with serious consequences for urban energy and residents’ health. Therefore, a better understanding of the dynamics of the UHI effect and the influencing factors is needed in the context of carbon neutrality and global warming. This study used long-term observation and statistical data to investigate the urban heat island intensity (UHII) over the past 39 years (1981–2019) and to analyze the temporal changes of the UHI effect and the relationship between the UHI effect and indicators of rapid urbanization in Zhengzhou, China. The results showed that Zhengzhou is warming 2.2-times faster than the global land warming trend of about +0.9 °C from 1981 to 2019. There is a clear phase characteristic of the heat island effect in Zhengzhou, and it offers a rapid upward trend after 2000 and a positive correlation with the urbanization process; it was found that the social and economic conditions of urban expansion in Zhengzhou have a significant relationship with UHII. We also found that the denser the urban built-up area, the more obvious the heat island effect. Compared with other countries, the influence of national policies on urban development is an indirect factor influencing the change of UHI specifically for Chinese cities. This research could provide a reference for understanding the temporal dynamics of UHI in an expanding large city for sustainable urban planning and mitigating urban warming and environmental problems.
Multi-Criteria GIS-Based Analysis for Mapping Suitable Sites for Onshore Wind Farms in Southeast France
Authors: Ifkirne Mohammed , El Bouhi Houssam , Acharki Siham , Pham Quoc Bao , Farah Abdelouahed , Linh Nguyen Thi Thuy
Published: October 2022

Wind energy is critical to traditional energy sources replacement in France and throughout the world. Wind energy generation in France is quite unevenly spread across the country. Despite its considerable wind potential, the research region is among the least productive. The region is a very complicated location where socio-environmental, technological, and topographical restrictions intersect, which is why energy production planning studies in this area have been delayed. In this research, the methodology used for identifying appropriate sites for future wind farms in this region combines GIS with MCDA approaches such as AHP. Six determining factors are selected: the average wind speed, which has a weight of 38%; the protected areas, which have a relative weight of 26%; the distance to electrical substations and road networks, both of which have a significant influence on relative weights of 13%; and finally, the slope and elevation, which have weights of 5% and 3%, respectively. Only one alternative was investigated (suitable and unsuitable). The spatial database was generated using ArcGIS and QGIS software; the AHP was computed using Excel; and several treatments, such as raster data categorization and weighted overlay, were automated using the Python programming language. The regions identified for wind turbines installation are defined by a total of 962,612 pixels, which cover a total of 651 km2 and represent around 6.98% of the research area. The theoretical wind potential calculation results suggest that for at least one site with an area bigger than 400 ha, the energy output ranges between 182.60 and 280.20 MW. The planned sites appear to be suitable; each site can support an average installed capacity of 45 MW. This energy benefit will fulfill the region’s population’s transportation, heating, and electrical demands.
Characteristics of Disaster Losses Distribution and Disaster Reduction Risk Investment in China from 2010 to 2020
Authors: Li Wenping , Wu Yuming , Gao Xing , Wang Wei
Published: October 2022

China is one of an increasing number of countries in the world that is suffering from frequent and severe natural disasters, which cause serious loss of life. The Chinese government has set up a special financial fund for natural disaster mitigation and reduction. Therefore, based on the financial expenditure data and disaster losses data obtained from ministries of emergency management and the China Statistical Yearbook, we analyzed the spatio-temporal distribution of natural disaster losses at the economic zonal scale during 2010–2020, and then evaluated the efficiency of disaster mitigation and reduction using a DEA model. The results showed that the natural disaster losses decreased significantly in most provinces from 2010 to 2020. The distribution of precipitation is extremely uneven (more in the southeast and less in the northwest). Moreover, the Central and Western Economic Zones are the most earthquake-prone regions in China, especially Xinjiang, Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan and Gansu. Among all natural disasters, floods were the leading natural disasters, causing the most severe losses in China on the national scale. Furthermore, the cities with higher comprehensive efficiency, mean the ratio between the effects and funding on disaster mitigation and reduction, were either economically developed or geographically large and sparsely populated. Finally, we used an exponential regression equation model to explore the relationship between financial input and direct economic losses caused by natural disasters in 2019 and 2020; we found that there is a negative correlation between the financial investment and the direct economic losses. In conclusion, it is necessary to improve the technology of natural disaster mitigation and reduction and to adjust the scale of investment according to the actual situation of each region and the different disasters in China. This paper aims to provide relevant experience and basis for China’s comprehensive disaster mitigation and reduction work.
Assessing Karst Landscape Degradation: A Case Study in Southern Italy
Authors: Pisano Luca , Zumpano Veronica , Pepe Mariangela , Liso Isabella Serena , Parise Mario
Published: October 2022

Karst regions are peculiar due to their environmental and ecological features and hold a rich abundance of natural resources; nonetheless, they represent one of the most endangered areas in the world as a result of human activity. Further, urbanization and modernization of agricultural practices over the years determined an acceleration in the degradation of the karst environment. For a long period in the Apulia region, humans used to live in a sustainable equilibrium with the karst landscape; however, during the 1980s and 1990s, an intense conversion of land cover interested the area, determining a high disturbance of the karst landforms and landscape degradation. In this article, we propose an insight into a case study placed in the Alta Murgia area (Apulia, Italy) to analyze the evolution of the karst landscape over a period of 50 years (1954–2006) by means of geomorphological analysis and multi-temporal photo interpretation. Landcover mapping is carried out to catch landscape modification, and further, obliteration of the karst features through time is also detected. Changes are quantified, and related statistics are derived. Furthermore, to better characterize the area, the main morphometric parameters are also computed for doline. Finally, extensive fieldwork is carried out to verify the current state of the mapped elements and to check the most peculiar observed cases of land cover and karst landform transformations. Results show the intensive transformation experienced by the study site in the period 1973–2006, determined by the substantial land cover transition from pasture and permanent crops to cultivated areas. Further, the main karst features, such as doline and shallow valleys with flat bottoms, also locally known as lame, are partially or totally obliterated by agricultural practices.
County-Level City Shrinkage in China: Representation, Cause, and Response
Authors: Chen Dingpan , Wu Yuzhe , Lin Zhou , Xu Zhiyi
Published: October 2022

Shrinkage in China’s cities has gradually received increasing attention. Specifically, county-level shrinking cities are numerous and widely distributed. City shrinkage even appears throughout Zhejiang Province, which is highly developed and has stable economic growth. County-level shrinking cities resulting from regional competition can still maintain long-term and stable economic growth, but their economic growth lags behind the whole competitive region. We identified five county-level shrinking cities in Zhejiang Province, and characterized the shrinkage phenomenon in Changshan County using census, nighttime lighting (NTL), and Tencent Location Big Data. City shrinkage resulted from the comprehensive effects of declining traditional industries, backward per capita income, highly skilled labor force shortages, and population age structure changes. Given the shrinkage status of Changshan, we proposed countermeasures and suggestions including aspects of industrial development, urban planning, social governance, and care for the elderly.
High-Speed Railway Network Development, Inter-County Accessibility Improvements, and Regional Poverty Alleviation: Evidence from China
Authors: Fan Jing , Kato Hironori , Liu Xinghua , Li Ye , Ma Changxi , Zhou Liang , Liang Mingzhang
Published: October 2022

The rapid expansion of the high-speed railway (HSR) network in China has significantly shortened the space–time distance between cities. China is striving to enter an anti-poverty era, which is increasing the importance of research on the poverty reduction effect created by upgrading transportation infrastructure, in particular, HSR development. Describing the characteristics of accessibility and the mechanisms by which that accessibility reduces poverty could provide the insights needed for determining suitable anti-poverty paths. By using data for 2341 counties and equivalents in China during 2007–2018, this study analyses the railway accessibility improvements and the poverty reduction effect created by HSR development. On average, HSR in China contributed to a significant increase in potential economic accessibility (317.8%) and a decrease in weighted average travel time (39.9%) for counties. Based on accessibility calculations, the Theil index was used to measure the disparity level of regional accessibility and regional poverty measured based on the income of rural residents. The results indicate that HSR leads to an increase in inequality in terms of travel time and potential economic accessibility at a national level. Pearson coefficients reveal a strong correlation between disparities in accessibility and in rural income among provinces. Furthermore, using the full sample, and sub-samples of poor and non-poor counties in China, the association between regional accessibility and poverty was examined by using two-way fixed effect models and spatial econometric models. The estimated results show that a 1% improvement in potential economic accessibility leads to an aggregate rural income improvement of 0.03–0.17%; the ratio of rural income to urban income increases by 0.04–0.12% and a larger effect is observed in poor counties. The weighted average travel time reduction also leads to improvement in rural income and reduction in the urban–rural income gap. The empirical results obtained by different robust test methods, including different sample groups, different estimated methods and accessibility indicators, are shown to be robust. These findings can help transportation departments formulate poverty-alleviation-oriented transportation planning and investment policies and inform future policies for countries planning to construct HSRs.
PKS5 Confers Cold Tolerance by Controlling Stomatal Movement and Regulating Cold-Responsive Genes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sun Chengyan , Zhu Lin , Cao Linlin , Qi Huimin , Liu Huijuan , Zhao Fengyun , Han Xiuli
Published: October 2022

Cold stress limits plant growth and development; however, the precise mechanisms underpinning plant acclimation to cold stress remain largely unknown. In this study, the Ser/Thr protein kinase SOS2-LIKE PROTEIN KINASE5 (PKS5) was shown to play a positive role in plant responses to cold stress. A PKS5 loss-of-function mutant (pks5-1) exhibited elevated sensitivity to cold stress, as well as a lower survival rate and increased ion leakage. Conversely, PKS5 gain-of-function mutants (pks5-3, pks5-4) were more tolerant to cold stress and exhibited higher survival rates and decreased ion leakage. Stomatal aperture analysis revealed that stomatal closure was slower during the first 25 min after cold exposure in pks5-1 compared to wild-type, whereas pks5-3 and pks5-4 displayed accelerated stomatal closure over the same time period. Further stomatal aperture analysis under an abscisic acid (ABA) treatment showed slower closure in pks5-1 and more rapid closure in pks5-3 and pks5-4. Finally, expression levels of cold-responsive genes were regulated by PKS5 under cold stress conditions, while cold stress and ABA treatment can regulate PKS5 expression. Taken together, these results suggest that PKS5 plays a positive role in short-term plant acclimation to cold stress by regulating stomatal aperture, possibly via ABA pathways, and in long-term acclimation by regulating cold-responsive genes.
Molecular and Physiological Mechanisms to Mitigate Abiotic Stress Conditions in Plants
Authors: Saharan Baljeet Singh , Brar Basanti , Duhan Joginder Singh , Kumar Ravinder , Marwaha Sumnil , Rajput Vishnu D. , Minkina Tatiana
Published: October 2022

Agriculture production faces many abiotic stresses, mainly drought, salinity, low and high temperature. These abiotic stresses inhibit plants’ genetic potential, which is the cause of huge reduction in crop productivity, decrease potent yields for important crop plants by more than 50% and imbalance agriculture’s sustainability. They lead to changes in the physio-morphological, molecular, and biochemical nature of the plants and change plants’ regular metabolism, which makes them a leading cause of losses in crop productivity. These changes in plant systems also help to mitigate abiotic stress conditions. To initiate the signal during stress conditions, sensor molecules of the plant perceive the stress signal from the outside and commence a signaling cascade to send a message and stimulate nuclear transcription factors to provoke specific gene expression. To mitigate the abiotic stress, plants contain several methods of avoidance, adaption, and acclimation. In addition to these, to manage stress conditions, plants possess several tolerance mechanisms which involve ion transporters, osmoprotectants, proteins, and other factors associated with transcriptional control, and signaling cascades are stimulated to offset abiotic stress-associated biochemical and molecular changes. Plant growth and survival depends on the ability to respond to the stress stimulus, produce the signal, and start suitable biochemical and physiological changes. Various important factors, such as the biochemical, physiological, and molecular mechanisms of plants, including the use of microbiomes and nanotechnology to combat abiotic stresses, are highlighted in this article.
Sodium Hypochlorite and Diode Laser in Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontitis: Clinical and Bacteriological Study with Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Authors: El Mobadder Marwan , Nammour Samir , Matys Jacek , Grzech-Leśniak Kinga
Published: October 2022

Increasing the disinfection during non-surgical treatment of periodontitis is primordial. This study assesses the effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite and a 980 nm diode laser in non-surgical treatment of periodontitis. Thirty sites of localized periodontitis with a probing pocket depth (PPD) of ≥ 6 mm were included. Fifteen underwent scaling root planing (SRP group) and 15 underwent SRP + 0.5% NaOCl and a 980 nm diode laser (study group). A biological molecular test and real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed before (T0) and after intervention (T1). Total bacterial count and counts of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, Peptostreptococcus micros, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Eubacterium nodatum, Capnocytophaga gingivalis were assessed. Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival recession (GR), PPD and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were evaluated at T0, and 3 and 6 months after. Study group showed a statistically significant reduction of TBC (5.66 × 108 CFU/mL) compared to SRP (6.2 × 109 CFU/mL). Both groups showed a statistically significant reduction of Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, Peptostrep. (micromonas) micros and Fusobacterium nucleatum; however, a significant reduction of Eubacterium nodatum and Capnocytophaga gingivalis was observed in the study group. At T6, both groups had a statistically significant reduction of PI, BOP, GR, PD and CAL. The study group showed more GR compared to SRP and a significant reduction of PD (4.03 mm ± 0.49) compared to SRP (5.28 mm ± 0.67). This study reveals that NaOCl and a diode laser are effective as an adjunctive to the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis.
The Overview of Perspectives of Clinical Application of Liquid Biopsy in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bożyk Aleksandra , Nicoś Marcin
Published: October 2022

The standard diagnostics procedure for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) requires a pathological evaluation of tissue samples obtained by surgery or biopsy, which are considered invasive sampling procedures. Due to this fact, re-sampling of the primary tumor at the moment of progression is limited and depends on the patient’s condition, even if it could reveal a mechanism of resistance to applied therapy. Recently, many studies have indicated that liquid biopsy could be provided for the noninvasive management of NSCLC patients who receive molecularly targeted therapies or immunotherapy. The liquid biopsy of neoplastic patients harbors small fragments of circulating-free DNA (cfDNA) and cell-free RNA (cfRNA) secreted to the circulation from normal cells, as well as a subset of tumor-derived circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). In NSCLC patients, a longitudinal assessment of genetic alterations in “druggable” genes in liquid biopsy might improve the follow-up of treatment efficacy and allow for the detection of an early progression before it is detectable in computed tomography or a clinical image. However, a liquid biopsy may be used to determine a variety of relevant molecular or genetic information for understanding tumor biology and its evolutionary trajectories. Thus, liquid biopsy is currently associated with greater hope for common diagnostic and clinical applications. In this review, we would like to highlight diagnostic challenges in the application of liquid biopsy into the clinical routine and indicate its implications on the metastatic spread of NSCLC or monitoring of personalized treatment regimens.
Spectral Analysis and Antiulcer Potential of Lactuca sativa through the Amelioration of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Apoptosis Markers
Authors: Syed Rahamat Unissa , Moni Sivakumar S. , Lila Amr S. Abu , Abdallah Marwa H. , Abouzied Amr S. , Banu Humera , Alreshidi Khetam Saad Mutni , Alrashidi Badriah Mansour Wadid , Hadi Mohd Abdul , El-Horany Hemat , Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Taha Manal Mohamed Elhassan
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study was to characterize the bioactive ingredients and antiulcer effects of Lactuca sativa leaves. Several bioactive chemicals were found in the cold methanolic extract of Lactuca sativa leaves after gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) research: 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-, cyclononasiloxane, octadecamethyl-, n-hexadecanoic acid, Hexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethyl, octadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethyl ester, 9-octadecenamide, (Z)-, hexadecanoic acid, stigmasterol, benzothiazole, ethyl iso-allocholate, and octacosane. Distinct fingerprint regions in GCMS indicated the existence of bioactive compounds. The leaf powder of Lactuca sativa (LPL) demonstrated substantial antiulcer properties at 400 mg/kg, which was almost equivalent to the standard drug at 20 mg/kg. The cytokine network was efficiently regulated by reducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. The levels of caspase-3 and caspase-9 were also considerably lowered at p < 0.05 significant level.
Signatures of Positive Selection in the Genome of Apis mellifera carnica: A Subspecies of European Honeybees
Authors: Huang Qiang , Zhu Yong-Qiang , Fouks Bertrand , He Xu-Jiang , Niu Qing-Sheng , Zheng Hua-Jun , Zeng Zhi-Jiang
Published: October 2022

The technology of long reads substantially improved the contingency of the genome assembly, particularly resolving contiguity of the repetitive regions. By integrating the interactive fragment using Hi-C, and the HiFi technique, a solid genome of the honeybee Apis mellifera carnica was assembled at the chromosomal level. A distinctive pattern of genes involved in social evolution was found by comparing it with social and solitary bees. A positive selection was identified in genes involved with cold tolerance, which likely underlies the adaptation of this European honeybee subspecies in the north hemisphere. The availability of this new high-quality genome will foster further studies and advances on genome variation during subspeciation, honeybee breeding and comparative genomics.
Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Inflammation but Does Not Interfere with Cardiac Modulation and Clinical Symptoms of Individuals with COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Corrêa Fernanda Ishida , Souza Paulo Henrique Leite , Uehara Laura , Ritti-Dias Raphael Mendes , Oliveira da Silva Gustavo , Segheto Wellington , Pacheco-Barrios Kevin , Fregni Felipe , Corrêa João Carlos Ferrari
Published: October 2022

Transcranial auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has shown effectiveness in reducing inflammation and depression. Thus, this study evaluated its effect on inflammation, cardiac autonomic modulation, and clinical symptoms in individuals affected by COVID-19. Methods: There were 52 randomized participants hospitalized with COVID-19 diagnosis who were to receive active (a-taVNS) or sham taVNS (s-taVNS) for 90 min twice a day for seven consecutive days. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), 10 (IL-10), cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP), heart rate variability (HRV), and clinical symptoms were assessed before and after seven days of treatment. There were also seven- and fourteen-day follow-ups for clinical symptoms, including anxiety and depression levels, as well as a six-month follow-up for memory and attention levels. Results: There was significant reduction in CRP −23.9%, (95% CI −46.3 to −1.4) and IL-6 −37.7%, (95% CI −57.6 to −17.7) for the a-taVNS group. There were no changes in IL-10, cortisol levels, or in HRV results (p > 0.05) in both groups. There were no changes regarding clinical symptoms, except for a significant decrease in depression level (−2.85, 95% CI −5.44 to −0.27) in the a-taVNS group. Conclusion: taVNS showed effects on CRP, IL-6, and depression levels; however, it did not affect other clinical symptoms.
An Overview of Recent Advances in the Event-Triggered Consensus of Multi-Agent Systems with Actuator Saturations
Authors: Xu Jing , Huang Jun
Published: October 2022

The event-triggered consensus of multi-agent systems received extensive attention in academia and industry perspectives since it ensures all agents eventually converge to a stable state while reducing the utilization of network communication resources effectively. However, the practical limitation of the actuator could lead to a saturation phenomenon, which may degrade the systems or even induce instability. This paper plans to offer a detailed review of some recent results in the event-triggered consensus of multi-agent systems subject to actuator saturation. First, the multi-agent system model with actuator saturation constraints is given, and the basic framework of the event-triggering mechanism is introduced. Second, representative results reported in recent valuable papers are reviewed based on methods for dealing with saturated terms, including low-gain feedback, sector-bounded conditions, and convex hull representations. Finally, some challenging topics worthy of research efforts are dicussed for future research.
High Accuracy Modeling of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Elsherbiny Hanaa , Szamel Laszlo , Ahmed Mohamed Kamal , Elwany Mahmoud A.
Published: October 2022

Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) have garnered increasing interest because of their advantages such as high efficiency, high power density, wide speed range, and fast dynamics. They have been employed recently in several industrial applications including robotics and electric vehicles (EVs). However, PMSMs have highly nonlinear magnetic characteristics, especially interior PMSMs, due to the existence of reluctance torque. Nonlinearity complicates not only machine modeling but also control algorithms. An accurate machine model is the key aspect for the prediction of machine performance as well as the development of a high-performance control algorithm. Hence, this paper presents an accurate modelling method for PMSMs. The proposed model method is applicable for all PMSMs, even multiphase machines. This paper considers a fractional slot concentrated winding 12/10 interior PMSM (IPMSM) for this study to demonstrate the effect of magnetic saturation and special harmonics. The developed model considers accurately the magnetic saturation, mutual coupling, spatial harmonics, and iron loss effects. It utilizes finite element analysis (FEA) to estimate the precise magnetic characteristics of IPMSM. The finite element model is calibrated precisely using experimental measurements. The iron losses are estimated within the simulation model as d- and q-axes current components. The model accuracy is validated experimentally based on a 12/10 IPMSM prototype.
Preoperative Fibrinogen-to-Albumin Ratio as Potential Predictor of Bladder Cancer: A Monocentric Retrospective Study
Authors: Barone Biagio , Napolitano Luigi , Reccia Pasquale , De Luca Luigi , Morra Simone , Turco Carmine , Melchionna Alberto , Caputo Vincenzo Francesco , Cirillo Luigi , Fusco Giovanni Maria , Mastrangelo Francesco , Calace Francesco Paolo , Amicuzi Ugo , Morgera Vincenzo , Romano Lorenzo , Trivellato Massimiliano , Mattiello Gennaro , Sicignano Enrico , Passaro Francesco , Ferretti Gianpiero , Giampaglia Gaetano , Capone Federico , Manfredi Celeste , Crocetto Felice
Published: October 2022

Background and objective: Fibrinogen and albumin are two proteins widely used, singularly and in combination, in cancer patients as biomarkers of nutritional status, inflammation and disease prognosis. The aim of our study was to investigate the preoperative fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) as a preoperative predictor of malignancy as well as advanced grade in patients with bladder cancer. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent TURBT at our institution between 2017 and 2021 was conducted. FAR was obtained from preoperative venous blood samples performed within 30 days from scheduled surgery and was analyzed in relation to histopathological reports, as was the presence of malignancy. Statistical analysis was performed using a Kruskal–Wallis Test, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, assuming p < 0.05 to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 510 patients were included in the study (81% male, 19% female), with a mean age of 71.66 ± 11.64 years. The mean FAR was significantly higher in patients with low-grade and high-grade bladder cancer, with values of 80.71 ± 23.15 and 84.93 ± 29.96, respectively, compared to patients without cancer (75.50 ± 24.81) (p = 0.006). Univariate regression analysis reported FAR to be irrelevant when considered as a continuous variable (OR = 1.013, 95% CI = 1.004–1.022; p = 0.004), while when considered as a categorical variable, utilizing a cut-off set at 76, OR was 2.062 (95% CI = 1.378–3.084; p < 0.0001). Nevertheless, the data were not confirmed in the multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Elevated preoperative FAR is a potential predictor of malignancy as well as advanced grade in patients with bladder cancer. Further data are required to suggest a promising role of the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio as a diagnostic biomarker for bladder tumors.