bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross−Talk between Transcriptome Analysis and Physiological Characterization Identifies the Genes in Response to the Low Phosphorus Stress in Malus mandshurica
Authors: Zhao Hong , Wu Yawei , Shen Luonan , Hou Qiandong , Wu Rongju , Li Zhengchun , Deng Lin , Wen Xiaopeng
Published: April 2022

Phosphorus (Pi) is a macronutrient essential for plant growth, development, and reproduction. However, there is not an efficient available amount of Pi that can be absorbed by plants in the soil. Previously, an elite line, MSDZ 109, selected from Malus mandshurica, was justified for its excellent tolerance to low phosphorus (low−Pi) stress. To date, however, the genes involved in low−Pi stress tolerance have not yet been unraveled in this species. Currently, the physiological responses of this line for different days to low−Pi stress were characterized, and their roots as well as leaves were used to carry out transcriptome analysis, so as to illuminate the potential molecular pathways and identify the genes involved in low−Pi stress−response. After exposure to low−Pi treatment (32 µmol/L KH2PO4) for 20 day after treatment (DAF) the biomass of shoots was significantly reduced in comparison with that of the stress−free (control), and root architecture diversely changed. For example, the root growth parameters e.g., length, surface area, and total volume somewhat increase in comparison with those of the control. The activity of acid phosphatase (ACP) increased with the low−Pi treatment, whereas the photosynthetic rate and biomass were declining. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, e.g., superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), were substantially elevated in response to low−Pi treatment. Many enzyme−related candidate genes e.g., MmCAT1, MmSOD1 and MmPOD21 were up−regulated to low−Pi treatment. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis indicated that the processes of photosynthesis, plant hormone signal transduction, and MAPK signaling pathway were affected in the low−Pi response. In combination with the physiological characterization, several low−Pi−responsive genes, e.g., PHT, PHO, were identified, and the genes implicated in Pi uptake and transport, such as MmPHT1;5, MmPHO1, MmPAP1, etc., were also obtained since their expression status varied among the exposure times, which probably notifies the candidates involved in low−Pi−responsive tolerance in this line. Interestingly, low−Pi treatment activated the expression of transcription factors including the WRKY family, MYB family, etc. The available evidences will facilitate a better understanding of the roles of this line underlying the high tolerance to low−Pi stress. Additionally, the accessible data are helpful for the use of the apple rootstock M. mandshurica under low−Pi stress.
Antigen Presentation and Autophagy in Teleost Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Johnstone Carolina , Chaves-Pozo Elena
Published: April 2022

Infectious diseases are a burden for aquaculture. Antigen processing and presentation (APP) to the immune effector cells that fight pathogens is key in the adaptive immune response. At the core of the adaptive immunity that appeared in lower vertebrates during evolution are the variable genes encoding the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). MHC class I molecules mainly present peptides processed in the cytosol by the proteasome and transported to the cell surface of all cells through secretory compartments. Professional antigen-presenting cells (pAPC) also express MHC class II molecules, which normally present peptides processed from exogenous antigens through lysosomal pathways. Autophagy is an intracellular self-degradation process that is conserved in all eukaryotes and is induced by starvation to contribute to cellular homeostasis. Self-digestion during autophagy mainly occurs by the fusion of autophagosomes, which engulf portions of cytosol and fuse with lysosomes (macroautophagy) or assisted by chaperones (chaperone-mediated autophagy, CMA) that deliver proteins to lysosomes. Thus, during self-degradation, antigens can be processed to be presented by the MHC to immune effector cells, thus, linking autophagy to APP. This review is focused on the essential components of the APP that are conserved in teleost fish and the increasing evidence related to the modulation of APP and autophagy during pathogen infection.
Enhancing Core Public Service Vocabulary to Enable Public Service Personalization
Authors: Gerontas Alexandros , Zeginis Dimitris , Promikyridis Rafail , Androš Marin , Tambouris Efthimios , Cipan Vibor , Tarabanis Konstantinos
Published: April 2022

The provision of public services (PS) is at the heart of public authority operations as it directly affects citizens’ lives and the prosperity of society. Part of PS provision is publishing PS descriptions in an online catalogue to inform citizens and promote transparency. The European Commission has developed Core Public Service Vocabulary Application Profile (CPSV-AP), as a standard European PS data model to facilitate PS catalogue creation and semantic interoperability. However, CPSV-AP is not sufficient to model complex PS with different versions based on rules and citizens’ circumstances (e.g., getting a passport for a child or for an emergency). As a result, citizens cannot obtain personalized information on PS. The aim of this paper is to enhance CPSV-AP in order to support the modeling of complex PS. We illustrate the use of the proposed model in a real-life case study. Specifically, we use the proposed model to develop a knowledge graph and a chatbot that provides personalized information to citizens of the city of Bjelovar (Croatia) regarding the life-event “having a baby”. We believe our research is of interest to researchers on PS data models and public authorities interested in providing personalized PS information to their citizens using chatbots.
Groundcovers and Rain Shelters Alter Co-Occurrence Patterns among Ground Beetle Communities in an Organic Raspberry Crop
Authors: Moreau Gaétan , Comeau Charles , Privé Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2022

The use of rain shelters and reflective groundcovers has been shown to improve the economic and environmental sustainability of organic fruit crops prone to rain-driven epidemics of phytopathogens. Here, we tested whether these structures affect communities of epigean species. To this end, we studied rain shelters and white, synthetic reflective groundcovers placed in a red raspberry organic cropping system in New Brunswick, Canada, during two subsequent summers to assess their independent and combined effects on ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae). 18,445 ground beetles belonging to 54 species were collected. Rain shelters and reflective groundcovers altered patterns of ground beetle species richness, activity density and functional diversity compared to the control, but to a limited extent. Thus, this study suggests that these structures, which have known benefits against phytopathogens, have no detrimental impact on epigean fauna.
Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension Is Associated with High Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with HIV
Authors: Madonna Rosalinda , Fabiani Silvia , Morganti Riccardo , Forniti Arianna , Biondi Filippo , Ridolfi Lorenzo , Iapoce Riccardo , Menichetti Francesco , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) at rest can be preceded by the onset of exercise-induced PH (ExPH). We investigated its association with the cardiovascular (CV) risk score in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Methods: In 46 consecutive patients with HIV with low (n = 43) or intermediate (n = 3) probability of resting PH, we evaluated the CV risk score based on prognostic determinants of CV risk. Diagnosis of ExPH was made by cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and exercise stress echocardiogram (ESE). Results: Twenty-eight % (n = 13) of the enrolled patients had ExPH at both CPET and ESE, with good agreement between the two methods (Cohen’s kappa = 0.678). ExPH correlated directly with a higher CV score (p < 0.001). Patients with a higher CV score also had lower CD4+ T-cell counts (p = 0.001), a faster progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (p < 0.001), a poor immunological response to antiretroviral therapy (p = 0.035), higher pulmonary vascular resistance (p = 0.003) and a higher right atrial area (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Isolated ExPH is associated with a high CV risk score in patients with HIV. Assessment of ExPH may better stratify CV risk in patients with HIV.
ANGPTL4 Expression Is Increased in Epicardial Adipose Tissue of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Katanasaka Yasufumi , Saito Ayumi , Sunagawa Yoichi , Sari Nurmila , Funamoto Masafumi , Shimizu Satoshi , Shimizu Kana , Akimoto Takehide , Ueki Chikara , Kitano Mitsuru , Hasegawa Koji , Sakaguchi Genichi , Morimoto Tatsuya
Published: April 2022

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is known to affect atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD) pathogenesis, persistently releasing pro-inflammatory adipokines that affect the myocardium and coronary arteries. Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) is a protein secreted from adipose tissue and plays a critical role in the progression of atherosclerosis. Here, the expression of ANGPTL4 in EAT was investigated in CAD subjects. Thirty-four consecutive patients (13 patients with significant CAD; 21 patients without CAD) undergoing elective open-heart surgery were recruited. EAT and pericardial fluid were obtained at the time of surgery. mRNA expression and ANGPTL4 and IL-1β levels were evaluated by qRT-PCR and ELISA. The expression of ANGPTL4 (p = 0.0180) and IL-1β (p < 0.0001) in EAT significantly increased in the CAD group compared to that in the non-CAD group and positively correlated (p = 0.004). Multiple regression analysis indicated that CAD is a contributing factor for ANGPTL4 expression in EAT. IL-1β level in the pericardial fluid was significantly increased in patients with CAD (p = 0.020). Moreover, the expression of ANGPTL4 (p = 0.004) and IL-1β (p < 0.001) in EAT was significantly increased in non-obese patients with CAD. In summary, ANGPTL4 expression in EAT was increased in CAD patients.
Negative Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Kidney Disease Management—A Single-Center Experience in Romania
Authors: Mureșan Adrian Vasile , Russu Eliza , Arbănași Emil Marian , Kaller Réka , Hosu Ioan , Arbănași Eliza Mihaela , Voidăzan Septimiu Toader
Published: April 2022

Background: The evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic affected healthcare systems worldwide. The patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, and cardiovascular disease were most affected and had an unfavorable outcome. Methods: We examined the activity of the Nephrology Department from Târgu-Mureș County Emergency Hospital retrospectively, comparing two periods: June 2020–November 2021 (COVID-19 period) and June 2018–November 2019 (non-COVID-19 period). Results: In the COVID-19 period, there were fewer one-day hospitalizations registered, 77.27% more dialysis catheters were installed, and 43.75% more arteriovenous fistulas were performed. An overall increase in the number of patients requiring dialysis during the pandemic was recorded, as of the number of dialysis sessions performed. Moreover, we observed a statistically significant increase in the number of dialysis sessions per patient and a statistically significant increase in the number of hospitalization days in the pandemic interval. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and urosepsis were the diagnoses that increased the most among in-patients during the pandemic, while all other nephrology diagnoses decreased. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated kidney pathology and worsened the outcomes of nephrology patients in our center. The number of chronic and patient’s access to one-day hospitalization decreased in order to minimalize the exposure and the risk of infection. In contrast, the need for emergency dialysis increased significantly.
Early Detection of Inflammation-Prone STEMI Patients Using the CRP Troponin Test (CTT)
Authors: Brzezinski Rafael Y. , Melloul Ariel , Berliner Shlomo , Goldiner Ilana , Stark Moshe , Rogowski Ori , Banai Shmuel , Shenhar-Tsarfaty Shani , Shacham Yacov
Published: April 2022

Elevated concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) early during an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) may reflect the magnitude of the inflammatory response to myocardial damage and are associated with worse outcome. However, the routine measurement of both CRP and cardiac troponin simultaneously in the setting of ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) is not used broadly. Here, we sought to identify and characterize individuals who are prone to an elevated inflammatory response following STEMI by using a combined CRP and troponin test (CTT) and determine their short- and long-term outcome. We retrospectively examined 1186 patients with the diagnosis of acute STEMI, who had at least two successive measurements of combined CRP and cardiac troponin (up to 6 h apart), all within the first 48 h of admission. We used Chi-Square Automatic Interaction Detector (CHAID) tree analysis to determine which parameters, timing (baseline vs. serial measurements), and cut-offs should be used to predict mortality. Patients with high CRP concentrations (above 90th percentile, >33 mg/L) had higher 30 day and all-cause mortality rates compared to the rest of the cohort, regardless of their troponin test status (above or below 118,000 ng/L); 14.4% vs. 2.7%, p < 0.01. Furthermore, patients with both high CRP and high troponin levels on their second measurement had the highest 30-day mortality rates compared to the rest of the cohort; 21.4% vs. 3.7%, p < 0.01. These patients also had the highest all-cause mortality rates after a median follow-up of 4.5 years compared to the rest of the cohort; 42.9% vs. 12.7%, p < 0.01. In conclusion, serial measurements of both CRP and cardiac troponin might detect patients at increased risk for short-and long-term mortality following STEMI. We suggest the future use of the combined CTT as a potential early marker for inflammatory-prone patients with worse outcomes following ACS. This sub-type of patients might benefit from early anti-inflammatory therapy such as colchicine and anti-interleukin-1ß agents.
Refractive Outcomes of Non-Toric and Toric Intraocular Lenses in Mild, Moderate and Advanced Keratoconus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yahalomi Tal , Achiron Asaf , Hecht Idan , Arnon Roee , Levinger Eliya , Pikkel Joseph , Tuuminen Raimo
Published: April 2022

Background: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the refractive outcomes of non-toric and toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) in keratoconus (KC) using different IOL power calculation formulas. Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify studies that report on refractive outcomes of different IOL power calculation formulas in KC patients undergoing cataract surgery. Inclusion criteria were primary posterior chamber non-toric and toric monofocal intraocular lens implantation, data on the degree of KC, explicit mention of the formula used for each stage of KC, and the number of eyes in each category. We calculated and compared the absolute and mean prediction errors, percentage of eyes within 0.5 D and 1 D from target, and the weighted absolute prediction errors of IOL formulas, all were given for KC degrees I–III. Results: The bibliographic search yielded 582 studies published between 1996 and 2020, 14 of which (in total 456 eyes) met the criteria: three studies on non-toric IOL (98 eyes), eight studies on toric IOLs (98 eyes) and three studies of unknown separation between non-toric and toric IOLs (260 eyes). The lowest absolute prediction error (APE) for mild, moderate, and advanced KC was seen with Kane’s IOL power formula with keratoconus adjustment. The APE for the top five IOL power formulas ranged 0.49–0.73 diopters (D) for mild (83–94%) of eyes within 1 D from the target), 1.08–1.21 D for moderate (51–57% within 1 D), and 1.44–2.86 D for advanced KC (12–48% within 1 D). Conclusions: Cataract surgery in eyes with mild-to-moderate KC generally achieves satisfactory postoperative refractive results. In patients with advanced KC, a minority of the eyes achieved spherical equivalent refraction within 1 D from the target. The Kane’s formula with keratoconus adjustment showed the best results in all KC stages.
Effects of High-Resolution CT Changes on Prognosis Predictability in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome with Diffuse Alveolar Damage
Authors: Huang Ching-Ying , Wu Patricia Wanping , Wong Yon-Cheong , Kao Kuo-Chin , Huang Chung-Chi
Published: April 2022

Diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) is the pathological hallmark of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). DAD is independently correlated with higher mortality compared with the absence of DAD. Traction bronchiectasis in areas of ground-glass opacity or consolidation is associated with the late fibroproliferative or fibrotic phase of DAD. This study examined whether the 60-day mortality related to DAD could be predicted using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings and HRCT scores. A total of 34 patients with DAD who received HRCT within 7 days of ARDS diagnosis were enrolled; they were divided into a 60-day survival group and a nonsurvival group, with 17 patients in each group. Univariate and multivariate binary regression analyses and the receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that only the total percentage of the area with traction bronchiectasis or bronchiolectasis was an independent predictor of 60-day mortality (odds ratio, 1.067; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.011–1.126) and had favorable predictive performance (area under the curve (AUC): 0.784; 95% CI, 0.621–0.946; cutoff, 21.7). Physiological variables, including age, days from ARDS to HRCT, the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, the PaO2/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) ratio, dynamic driving pressure, and dynamic mechanical power, were not discriminative between 60-day survival and nonsurvival. In conclusion, the extent of fibroproliferation on HRCT in early ARDS, presented as the total percentage of area with bronchiectasis or bronchiolectasis, is an independent positive predictor with a favorable predictive ability for the 60-day mortality of DAD.
Effects of Antioxidants on Pain Perception in Patients with Fibromyalgia—A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Araque Ana , Verde Zoraida , Torres-Ortega Clara , Sainz-Gil Maria , Velasco-Gonzalez Veronica , González-Bernal Jerónimo Javier , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan
Published: April 2022

In recent years, antioxidant supplements have become popular to counteract the effects of oxidative stress in fibromyalgia and one of its most distressing symptoms, pain. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the effects of antioxidant supplementation on pain levels perceived by patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The words used respected the medical search terms related to our objective including antioxidants, fibromyalgia, pain, and supplementation. Seventeen relevant articles were identified within Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), the Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. This review found that antioxidant supplementation is efficient in reducing pain in nine of the studies reviewed. Studies with a duration of supplementation of at least 6 weeks showed a benefit on pain perception in 80% of the patients included in these studies. The benefits shown by vitamins and coenzyme Q10 are remarkable. Further research is needed to identify the effects of other types of antioxidants, such as extra virgin olive oil and turmeric. More homogeneous interventions in terms of antioxidant doses administered and duration would allow the effects on pain to be addressed more comprehensively.
Efficacy of Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors in Lowering Serum Uric Acid in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Yoojin , Hwang Jennifer , Desai Shaan H. , Li Xiaobai , Jenkins Christopher , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Winkler Cheryl A. , Cho Sung Kweon
Published: April 2022

Objective: Current guidelines for gout recommend a treat-to-target approach with serum uric acid (SUA). However, there is little evidence for the dose-dependent effects of urate-lowering therapy (ULT). Herein, we analyzed the reported SUA-lowering effect and SUA target achievement differences for various doses of xanthine oxidase inhibitors. Methods: Approved ULT drugs were selected from the FDA Drug Database. We included prospective randomized controlled trials of ULT drugs from ClinicalTrials.gov, articles published in the journal “Drugs”, and Embase, a literature database. A meta-analysis was performed to determine the ability of different ULT drugs and doses to lower and maintain a target SUA < 6 mg/dL. Results: We identified 35 trials including 8172 patients with a baseline SUA of 8.92 mg/dL. The allopurinol, febuxostat, and topiroxostat showed dose-proportional SUA-lowering responses. Compared with allopurinol 300 mg daily, febuxostat 80 mg daily and 120 mg daily more effectively maintained SUA < 6 mg/dL. Conclusion: Allopurinol, febuxostat, and topiroxostat showed dose-proportional ability to lower and achieve a target SUA < 6 mg/dL. Significance and Innovations. We showed dose-dependent SUA lowering effects of allopurinol, febuxostat, and topiroxostat. Febuxostat is effective at ULT compared to allopurinol and could be potentially offered as an alternative agent when patients (1) have CKD, (2) have the human leukocyte antigen HLA-B*5801 allele, and (3) become refractory to allopurinol. Gradual allopurinol dose increase with a lower starting dose is needed in CKD.
Barcelona Coastal Monitoring with the “Patí a Vela”, a Traditional Sailboat Turned into an Oceanographic Platform
Authors: Ortigosa Inmaculada , Bardaji Raul , Carbonell Albert , Carrasco Oriol , Castells-Sanabra Marcella , Figuerola Rafel , Hoareau Nina , Mateu Jordi , Piera Jaume , Puigdefabregas Joan , Salvador Joaquín , Simon Carine , Vallès-Casanova Ignasi , Pelegrí Josep L.
Published: April 2022

Shelf waters near large cities, such as Barcelona, are affected not only by meteorological episodes but also by anthropogenic influence. Scientists usually use data from on-site coastal platforms to analyze and understand these complex water ecosystems because remote sensing satellites have low spatiotemporal resolution and do not provide reliable data so close to the coast. However, platforms with conventional oceanographic instrumentation are expensive to install and maintain. This study presents the scientific adaptation and initial measurements from a “patí a vela”, which is a very popular unipersonal catamaran in Barcelona. This versatile sailing vessel has been adapted to contain several low-cost sensors and instruments to measure water properties. Here, we describe the setup of a multi-parameter prototype, and then focus on results obtained using a low-cost temperature profiler. First, the temperature data are compared and validated with another conventional oceanographic instrument used in monthly oceanographic cruises. Then, field measurements between July and November 2021 are used to explore the relationship between air and water temperature in the Barcelona coastal area, showing the seasonal evolution of the temperature profile. We conclude that citizen sampling from fully sustainable sailing boats may turn into an effective strategy to monitor the urban coastal waters.
Comparison of Benzbromarone and Allopurinol on Primary Prevention of the First Gout Flare in Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia
Authors: Lai Shih-Wei , Liao Kuan-Fu , Kuo Yu-Hung , Liu Chiu-Shong , Hwang Bing-Fang
Published: April 2022

Objectives. Whether uric acid-lowering agent use in asymptomatic hyperuricemia can reduce the development of the first gout flare remains unsettled. The goal of the present research was to test the efficacy of benzbromarone and allopurinol on primary prevention of the first gout flare in persons with asymptomatic hyperuricemia in Taiwan. Methods. One observational cohort study was constructed to examine the 2001–2015 dataset adapted from the National Health Insurance Program of Taiwan containing the claims data of 2 million beneficiaries. Asymptomatic hyperuricemia was considered as individuals on uric acid-lowering therapy who did not have gout flares. Individuals aged 20–84 without gout flares who had the use of benzbromarone alone were assigned into a benzbromarone group. Individuals ages 20–84 without gout flares who had the use of allopurinol alone were assigned into an allopurinol group. The final study included 6111 pairs of 1:1 propensity score-matched individuals from both benzbromarone and allopurinol groups. The end point was assigned as individuals who were newly diagnosed with their first gout flare. The incidence rate of the first gout flare was estimated between the benzbromarone and allopurinol groups. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was applied to explore the hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval of the first gout flare related to benzbromarone use and allopurinol use. Results. The incidence rate of the first gout flare was lower in the benzbromarone group compared with an allopurinol group (3.29 versus 5.46 per 1000 person-months, incidence rate ratio = 0.60 and 95% confidence interval = 0.56–0.64). After adjustment for co-variables, the adjusted hazard ratio of the first gout flare was 0.63 (95% confidence interval = 0.59–0.68, p < 0.001) for the benzbromarone group when compared with the allopurinol group. Conclusion. People with asymptomatic hyperuricemia taking benzbromarone have a lower hazard of developing their first gout flare when compared with those taking allopurinol. Based on the medication safety, the therapeutic effects and the low price, with oral administration once daily, we suggest that benzbromarone should be the first drug of choice if clinicians are treating asymptomatic hyperuricemia.
Development and Validation of an Artificial Intelligence Electrocardiogram Recommendation System in the Emergency Department
Authors: Tsai Dung-Jang , Tsai Shih-Hung , Chiang Hui-Hsun , Lee Chia-Cheng , Chen Sy-Jou
Published: April 2022

The machine learning-assisted electrocardiogram (ECG) is increasingly recognized for its unprecedented capabilities in diagnosing and predicting cardiovascular diseases. Identifying the need for ECG examination early in emergency department (ED) triage is key to timely artificial intelligence-assisted analysis. We used machine learning to develop and validate a clinical decision support tool to predict ED triage patients’ need for ECG. Data from 301,658 ED visits from August 2017 to November 2020 in a tertiary hospital were divided into a development cohort, validation cohort, and two test cohorts that included admissions before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Models were developed using logistic regression, decision tree, random forest, and XGBoost methods. Their areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs), positive predictive values (PPVs), and negative predictive values (NPVs) were compared and validated. In the validation cohort, the AUCs were 0.887 for the XGBoost model, 0.885 for the logistic regression model, 0.878 for the random forest model, and 0.845 for the decision tree model. The XGBoost model was selected for subsequent application. In test cohort 1, the AUC was 0.891, with sensitivity of 0.812, specificity of 0.814, PPV of 0.708 and NPV of 0.886. In test cohort 2, the AUC was 0.885, with sensitivity of 0.816, specificity of 0.812, PPV of 0.659, and NPV of 0.908. In the cumulative incidence analysis, patients not receiving an ECG yet positively predicted by the model had significantly higher probability of receiving the examination within 48 h compared with those negatively predicted by the model. A machine learning model based on triage datasets was developed to predict ECG acquisition with high accuracy. The ECG recommendation can effectively predict whether patients presenting at ED triage will require an ECG, prompting subsequent analysis and decision-making in the ED.
Life Cycle Assessment Applied to Nature-Based Solutions: Learnings, Methodological Challenges, and Perspectives from a Critical Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Larrey-Lassalle Pyrène , Armand Decker Stéphanie , Perfido Domenico , Naneci Serkan , Rugani Benedetto
Published: April 2022

The use of life cycle assessment (LCA) allows work to go beyond the traditional scope of urban nature-based solutions (NBS), in which ecosystem services are provided to citizens, to include environmental impacts generated over the entire life cycle of the NBS, i.e., from raw material extraction, through materials processing, production, distribution, and use stages, to end-of-life management. In this work, we explored how LCA has been applied in the context of NBS through a critical analysis of the literature. Systems under review were not restricted to one typology of NBS or another, but were meant to cover a broad range of NBS, from NBS on the ground, water-related NBS, building NBS, to NBS strategies. In total, 130 LCA studies of NBS were analysed according to several criteria derived from the LCA methodology or from specific challenges associated with NBS. Results show that studies were based on different scopes, resulting in the selection of different functional units and system boundaries. Accordingly, we propose an innovative approach based on the ecosystem services (ES) concept to classify and quantify these functional units. We also identify and discuss two recent and promising approaches to solve multifunctionality that could be adapted for LCA of NBS.
Use of Image-Guided Surgical Navigation during Resection of Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer
Authors: Groen Harald C. , den Hartog Anne G. , Heerink Wouter J. , Kuhlmann Koert F. D. , Kok Niels F. M. , van Veen Ruben , Hiep Marijn A. J. , Snaebjornsson Petur , Grotenhuis Brechtje A. , Beets Geerard L. , Aalbers Arend G. J. , Ruers Theo J. M.
Published: April 2022

Surgery for locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) presents several challenges, which is why the percentage of inadequate resections of these tumors is high. In this exploratory study, we evaluate the use of image-guided surgical navigation during resection of LRRC. Patients who were scheduled to undergo surgical resection of LRRC who were deemed by the multidisciplinary team to be at a high risk of inadequate tumor resection were selected to undergo surgical navigation. The risk of inadequate surgery was further determined by the proximity of the tumor to critical anatomical structures. Workflow characteristics of the surgical navigation procedure were evaluated, while the surgical outcome was determined by the status of the resection margin. In total, 20 patients were analyzed. For all procedures, surgical navigation was completed successfully and demonstrated to be accurate, while no complications related to the surgical navigation were discerned. Radical resection was achieved in 14 cases (70%). In five cases (25%), a tumor-positive resection margin (R1) was anticipated during surgery, as extensive radical resection was determined to be compromised. These patients all received intraoperative brachytherapy. In one case (5%), an unexpected R1 resection was performed. Surgical navigation during resection of LRRC is thus safe and feasible and enables accurate surgical guidance.
An Enhanced SEIR Model for Prediction of COVID-19 with Vaccination Effect
Authors: Poonia Ramesh Chandra , Saudagar Abdul Khader Jilani , Altameem Abdullah , Alkhathami Mohammed , Khan Muhammad Badruddin , Hasanat Mozaherul Hoque Abul
Published: April 2022

Currently, the spread of COVID-19 is running at a constant pace. The current situation is not so alarming, but every pandemic has a history of three waves. Two waves have been seen, and now expecting the third wave. Compartmental models are one of the methods that predict the severity of a pandemic. An enhanced SEIR model is expected to predict the new cases of COVID-19. The proposed model has an additional compartment of vaccination. This proposed model is the SEIRV model that predicts the severity of COVID-19 when the population is vaccinated. The proposed model is simulated with three conditions. The first condition is when social distancing is not incorporated, while the second condition is when social distancing is included. The third one condition is when social distancing is combined when the population is vaccinated. The result shows an epidemic growth rate of about 0.06 per day, and the number of infected people doubles every 10.7 days. Still, with imparting social distancing, the proposed model obtained the value of R0 is 1.3. Vaccination of infants and kids will be considered as future work.
The R Language: An Engine for Bioinformatics and Data Science
Authors: Giorgi Federico M. , Ceraolo Carmine , Mercatelli Daniele
Published: April 2022

The R programming language is approaching its 30th birthday, and in the last three decades it has achieved a prominent role in statistics, bioinformatics, and data science in general. It currently ranks among the top 10 most popular languages worldwide, and its community has produced tens of thousands of extensions and packages, with scopes ranging from machine learning to transcriptome data analysis. In this review, we provide an historical chronicle of how R became what it is today, describing all its current features and capabilities. We also illustrate the major tools of R, such as the current R editors and integrated development environments (IDEs), the R Shiny web server, the R methods for machine learning, and its relationship with other programming languages. We also discuss the role of R in science in general as a driver for reproducibility. Overall, we hope to provide both a complete snapshot of R today and a practical compendium of the major features and applications of this programming language.
Identification of Known and Novel Arundo donax L. MicroRNAs and Their Targets Using High-Throughput Sequencing and Degradome Analysis
Authors: Rotunno Silvia , Cocozza Claudia , Pantaleo Vitantonio , Leonetti Paola , Bertoldi Loris , Valle Giorgio , Accotto Gian , Loreto Francesco , Scippa Gabriella , Miozzi Laura
Published: April 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding molecules involved in the regulation of a variety of biological processes. They have been identified and characterized in several plant species, but only limited data are available for Arundo donax L., one of the most promising bioenergy crops. Here we identified, for the first time, A. donax conserved and novel miRNAs together with their targets, through a combined analysis of high-throughput sequencing of small RNAs, transcriptome and degradome data. A total of 134 conserved miRNAs, belonging to 45 families, and 27 novel miRNA candidates were identified, along with the corresponding primary and precursor miRNA sequences. A total of 96 targets, 69 for known miRNAs and 27 for novel miRNA candidates, were also identified by degradome analysis and selected slice sites were validated by 5′-RACE. The identified set of conserved and novel candidate miRNAs, together with their targets, extends our knowledge about miRNAs in monocots and pave the way to further investigations on miRNAs-mediated regulatory processes in A. donax, Poaceae and other bioenergy crops.
Titanium Dental Implants: An Overview of Applied Nanobiotechnology to Improve Biocompatibility and Prevent Infections
Authors: Silva Rayane C. S. , Agrelli Almerinda , Andrade Audrey N. , Mendes-Marques Carina L. , Arruda Isabel R. S. , Santos Luzia R. L. , Vasconcelos Niedja F. , Machado Giovanna
Published: April 2022

This review addresses the different aspects of the use of titanium and its alloys in the production of dental implants, the most common causes of implant failures and the development of improved surfaces capable of stimulating osseointegration and guaranteeing the long-term success of dental implants. Titanium is the main material for the development of dental implants; despite this, different surface modifications are studied aiming to improve the osseointegration process. Nanoscale modifications and the bioactivation of surfaces with biological molecules can promote faster healing when compared to smooth surfaces. Recent studies have also pointed out that gradual changes in the implant, based on the microenvironment of insertion, are factors that may improve the integration of the implant with soft and bone tissues, preventing infections and osseointegration failures. In this context, the understanding that nanobiotechnological surface modifications in titanium dental implants improve the osseointegration process arouses interest in the development of new strategies, which is a highly relevant factor in the production of improved dental materials.
High Energy Storage Density in Nanocomposites of P(VDF-TrFE-CFE) Terpolymer and BaZr0.2Ti0.8O3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Hambal Yusra , Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Michiels Ivo , Zhang Qiming , Lupascu Doru C.
Published: April 2022

Polymer materials are actively used in dielectric capacitors, in particular for energy storage applications. An enhancement of the stored energy density can be achieved in composites of electroactive polymers and dielectric inorganic fillers with a high dielectric permittivity. In this article, we report on the energy storage characteristics of composites of relaxor terpolymer P(VDF-TrFE-CFE) and BaZr0.2Ti0.8O3 (BZT) nanoparticles. The choice of materials was dictated by their large dielectric permittivity in the vicinity of room temperature. Free-standing composite films, with BZT contents up to 5 vol.%, were prepared by solution casting. The dielectric properties of the composites were investigated over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures. It was shown that the addition of the BZT nanoparticles does not affect the relaxor behavior of the polymer matrix, but significantly increases the dielectric permittivity. The energy storage parameters were estimated from the analysis of the unipolar polarization hysteresis loops. The addition of the BZT filler resulted in the increasing discharge energy density. The best results were achieved for composites with 1.25–2.5 vol.% of BZT. In the range of electric fields to 150 MV/m, the obtained materials demonstrate a superior energy storage density compared to other P(VDF-TFE-CFE) based composites reported in the literature.
Microstructure and Soil Wear Resistance of a Grey Cast Iron Alloy Reinforced with Ni and Cr Laser Coatings
Authors: Paczkowska Marta , Selech Jaroslaw
Published: April 2022

The goal of the presented investigation was to assess the impact of surface laser modification with the implementation of nickel and chromium on the microstructure and tribological behaviour of grey iron. Surface laser modification consisted of remelting the surface layer with simultaneous implementation of selected elements. In the first variant of treatment only nickel was implemented and in the second one, a combination of nickel with chromium together. This treatment was performed on an agriculture machine part made of grey iron and working in intensive friction conditions. The constituted surface layer was characterized by about 0.45 mm of depth and a 160 mm2 area of the most exposed to wear of the treated part. In the case of both types of variants, the achieved surface layer microstructure was identified as homogenized with small grains. It involved nickel in the first variant of modification and nickel and chromium in the second one. The attained microstructure with nickel addition was characterized by nearly 800 HV0.1 of hardness (a 3.6-fold increase in comparison to its core material). The approximate hardness of 900 HV0.1 was achieved in the case of the microstructure enriched with nickel and chromium (over a 4-fold increase in comparison to the core material). The roughness of the surface after laser modification was reduced (nearly 3-fold) in comparison to the original surface of the part that was characterized by quite substantial coarseness. The wear test showed that Ni and Cr laser coatings increased resistance to abrasive wear resulting from the modification of the microstructure by the formation of martensite and grain fragmentation. Laser modified parts had a 2.5-fold smaller mass loss than untreated parts. Both types of performed variants: with the implementation of nickel and a combination of nickel and chromium gave comparable effects.
The Possibility to Use Pine Timber Pieces with Small Size in the Production of Glulam Beams
Authors: Dziurka Dorota , Kawalerczyk Jakub , Walkiewicz Joanna , Derkowski Adam , Mirski Radosław
Published: April 2022

Engineered wood products, such as glulam beams, attract much attention from the building industry in recent years. Therefore, there is a constant necessity to seek new models of structural beams, which assume the use of outsized sawn wood pieces as an alternative for the standard construction timber. Three variants of glulam beams, composed of the main yield and side boards arranged in various structures, were proposed. Moreover, the usefulness of wedge-jointed, small-sized timber pieces was also investigated. The manufactured beams were tested, in terms of their mechanical properties, such as bending strength, elastic energy, modulus of elasticity, and resilience. The outcomes have shown that the beams manufactured using wedge-bonded timber of lower grade do not deviate considerably from beams produced from homogeneous lamellas. Furthermore, the results of modulus of elasticity, in the case of the three-layered beams composed of both small-sized non-homogenous main yield and side boards, exceeded the requirements from EN 14080. It allowed us to classify the obtained materials as GL 32c, which is the highest grade specified within the standard.
Rheological Properties and Early-Age Microstructure of Cement Pastes with Limestone Powder, Redispersible Polymer Powder and Cellulose Ether
Authors: Feng Kaiwen , Xu Zhanjun , Zhang Weizheng , Ma Kunlin , Shen Jingtao , Hu Mingwen
Published: April 2022

In order to study the synergistic effects of organic and inorganic thickening agents on the rheological properties of cement paste, the rheological parameters, thixotropy cement-paste containing limestone powder (LP), re-dispersible polymer powder (RPP), and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ether (HPMC) were investigated using the Anton Paar MCR 102 rheometer at different resting times. The early-age hydration process, hydration products, and microstructure were also analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry analyses (TGA). The results showed that the addition of LP, RPP, and HPMC affected the rheological properties of cement paste, but the thickening mechanism between organic and inorganic thickening agents was different. The small amount of LP increased the plastic viscosity but decreased the yield stress of cement paste due to its dense filling effect. Adding 1% of RPP improved the thixotropic property of cement paste by 50%; prolonging the standing time could improve the thixotropic performance by as much as two times. Only 0.035% HPMC added to the cement paste increased the plastic viscosity by 20%, while the yield stress increased nearly twice. The more HPMC added, the more significant effect it showed. Cement paste compounds with LP, RPP, and HPMC balanced the yield stress and plastic viscosity and improved the thixotropy. The C-L6-R1.0-H0.035 paste presented as a pseudoplastic, its rheological indexes were close to one, and it was hardly affected by the resting time. The composite superposition effect of organic and inorganic thickening agents reduced the impact of resting time for all pastes. As the organic thickening component inhibited the hydration more than the LP promoted the hydration of the cement paste, indicating that the C-L6-R1.0-H0.035 paste remained in the particle fusion stage after curing for three days, as shown by the SEM images.
Biosynthesis and Response of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against Periimplantitis Triggering Pathogens
Authors: Ting Bernice Yii Shu , Fuloria Neeraj Kumar , Subrimanyan Vetriselvan , Bajaj Sakshi , Chinni Suresh V. , Reddy Lebaka Veeranjaneya , Sathasivam Kathiresan V. , Karupiah Sundram , Malviya Rishabha , Meenakshi Dhanalekshmi Unnikrishnan , Paliwal Neeraj , Priya Krishna , Fuloria Shivkanya
Published: April 2022

Periimplantitis due to pathogenic bacteria is considered as a major cause for dental implants failures. Biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnPs) are known to inhibit periimplantitis triggering pathogens. The current investigation intended to perform ZnPs biosynthesis and evaluation against periimplantitis triggering bacteria. The current study involved ZnPs biosynthesis using Andrographis paniculata leaves aqueous extract (APLAE), followed by optimization, stability, characterization, and in vitro evaluation against periimplantitis triggering bacteria. The experimental results indicated the success of ZnPs biosynthesis based on the optimization of zinc acetate (1.5 g), plant extract (5 mL), pH 12, and temperature (25 °C), and using the stability study (absorbance between 365–370 nm) and characterization data exhibiting broad and shifted bands (in FTIR spectrum), the size was found to be below 98.61 nm (determined by FESEM and XRD spectra) and 71.54% zinc was observed in the EDX spectrum. Biogenic ZnPs exhibited a high inhibitory activity against periimplantitis-triggering pathogens (E. coli and S. aureus). Based on the experimental results, the present study concludes that biogenic ZnPs possess a high inhibitory potential against periimplantitis-triggering bacteria, and it is established that the biosynthesis of ZnPs using APLAE is a useful method.
Preliminary Feasibility Investigation on Reutilization of Recycled Crushed Clay Bricks from Construction and Demolition Waste for Cement-Stabilized Macadam
Authors: Wu Dongxing , Chu Wenchao , Wang Longlin , Wang Wensheng , Wang Haoyun , Shangguan Xuanhao , Cui Xiang
Published: April 2022

Utilizing recycled crushed clay brick (RCB) from C&D waste in road engineering construction as the substitute for natural aggregates has attracted a lot of attention, which would be a promising step forward towards sustainable development and green construction. The objective of this study is to assess the feasibility of cement-stabilized macadam (CSM), incorporating various RCB fine aggregate substitution ratios. For this purpose, the physical and chemical properties of RCB fine aggregate was tested, and RCB exhibited a porous surface micro-morphology, high water absorption and pozzolanic activity. Subsequently, a comprehensive experimental investigation of modified CSM with RCB has been carried out based on laboratory tests concerning the mechanical and shrinkage properties. Results showed that higher RCB fine aggregate substitution ratio resulted in lower unconfined compressive strength, and the negative influence of RCB on unconfined compressive strength would decrease gradually, varying curing time; however, the higher the RCB substitution ratio was, the larger the indirect tensile strength at 90 d curing time of the late curing period was. CSM containing RCB had an overall increasing accumulative water loss rate, accumulative strain of dry shrinkage and average coefficient of dry shrinkage, except that 20% RCB resulted in an excellent dry shrinkage property. Moreover, RCB with pozzolanic activity reacted very slowly mainly at later ages, enhancing the interfacial transition zone.