bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Anxiety, Sleep Quality, and Physical Activity as Predictors of Depression among University Students from Saudi Arabia during the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Alshammari Tahani K. , Alkhodair Aljawharah M. , Alhebshi Hanan A. , Rogowska Aleksandra M. , Albaker Awatif B. , AL-Damri Nouf T. , Bin Dayel Anfal F. , Alonazi Asma S. , Alrasheed Nouf M. , Alshammari Musaad A.
Published: May 2022

Conducted during the second wave of the pandemic, this cross-sectional study examined the link between sleep quality, physical activity, exposure, and the impact of COVID-19 as predictors of mental health in Saudi undergraduate students. A convenience sample of 207 participants were recruited, 89% of whom were females and 94% were single. The measures included questionnaires on the level of exposure and the perceived impact of COVID-19, a physical activity measure, GAD-7, PHQ-9, and PSQI. The results indicated that approximately 43% of participants exhibited moderate anxiety, and 50% were at risk of depression. Overall, 63.93% of students exposed to strict quarantine for at least 14 days (n = 39) exhibited a high risk of developing depression (χ2(1) = 6.49, p < 0.05, ϕ = 0.18). A higher risk of depression was also found in students whose loved ones lost their jobs (χ2(1) = 4.24, p < 0.05, ϕ = 0.14). Moreover, there was also a strong association between depression and anxiety (β = 0.33, p < 0.01), sleep quality (β = 0.32, p < 0.01), and the perceived negative impact of COVID-19 on socio-economic status (β = 0.26, p < 0.05), explaining 66.67% of depression variance. Our study highlights the socio-economic impact of this pandemic and the overwhelming prevalence of depression.
Analysis of the Difference in College Students’ Experience of Family Harmony before and after the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Zhan Qisheng , Zhang Shuya , Wang Qin , Zhang Lisha , Liu Zhengkui
Published: May 2022

Background: China implemented a home quarantine policy in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, college students stayed at home for a long time, facing their parents and being directly exposed to family affairs every day. Thus, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and home quarantine on college students’ experience of family harmony are worth discussing. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to explore whether there was any difference in college students’ experience of family harmony before and after the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Participants in this study were undergraduates from a university in Tianjin. They completed the college students’ experience of family harmony questionnaire (CSEFHQ) before and after the COVID-19 outbreak (December 2019 and March 2020). A total of 215 participants (96 men and 119 women) completed the whole test. Results: The paired sample t-tests showed that the scores on seven dimensions of CSEFHQ: getting along (t = 5.116, p < 0.001), conflict (t = 6.442, p < 0.001), sharing (t = 5.414, p < 0.001), self-isolation (t = 3.014, p < 0.01), help-seeking (t = 5.353, p < 0.001), avoidance (t = 6.010, p < 0.001), support-providing (t = 5.818, p < 0.001), and the total scores of CSEFHQ (t = 6.496, p < 0.001) were all significantly reduced after the COVID-19 outbreak, while the scores on the other two dimensions, undertaking housework (t = 1.379) and indifference (t = 1.765), did not change significantly. Conclusions: The college students’ experience of family harmony was significantly worse after the COVID-19 outbreak. These results can be used to improve the level of family harmony of college students during the pandemic and improve their quality of life.
Characterizing Time-Series Roving Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining Activities in Indonesia Using Sentinel-1 Data
Authors: Kimijima Satomi , Sakakibara Masayuki , Nagai Masahiko
Published: May 2022

The rapid growth of roving mining camps has negatively influenced their surrounding environment. Although artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is a major source of gold production, the mining activities and their activeness are not well revealed owing to their informal, illegal, and unregulated characteristics. This study characterizes the transformations of roving camp-type ASGM (R-C-ASGM) activities in Central of Katingan Regency, Central Kalimantan Province, Indonesia, from 2015 to 2021 using remotely sensed data, such as the time-series Sentinel-1 dataset. The results show that the growth of active R-C-ASGM sites was identified at the center of the Galangan mining region with expansions to the northwest part along the Kalanaman River, especially in 2021. Hence, these approaches identify the transformations of roving mining activities and their active or nonactive status even in tropical regions experiencing frequent heavy traffic rainstorms. They provide significant information on the socioenvironmental risks possibly caused at local and regional levels. Our results also inform the design of timely interventions suited to local conditions for strengthening environmental governance.
Relationships between the Perception of Footwear Comfort and the Fear of Falls in People at the Early Period of Old Age
Authors: Puszczalowska-Lizis Ewa , Mikulakova Wioletta , Lizis Sabina , Koziol Karolina , Omorczyk Jaroslaw
Published: May 2022

Objective: The present study aimed to analyze the relationships between the perceptions of footwear comfort with fear of falls in younger-old women and men. Participants: the population sample involved 100 free-living community dwellers aged 65–74. Design: the Falls Efficacy Scale-International and a visual analogue scale to assess perception of footwear comfort were used as research tools. Results: there were statistically significant differences in the FES-I results in people who suffered a fall in the last year compared to those who did not experience a fall (p < 0.001), as well as in the subjective assessment of mediolateral control in people who have suffered and have not suffered a fall in the last year (p = 0.033). In women, statistically significant relationships were found in the subjective assessment of shoe comfort in terms of arch height (p = 0.025) and material properties of the footwear (p = 0.036) with the results of FES-I. Conclusions: People who have fallen show a higher level of fear of falling. The assessment of footwear comfort in terms of mediolateral control was lower in the younger-old who had experienced a fall in the last year. In women, a worse assessment of arch height and material properties of the footwear is accompanied by greater fear of falling.
Post-Operative Patients’ Satisfaction and Quality of Life Assessment in Adult Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS)
Authors: Rossi Diego Sergio , Goker Funda , Cullati Federico , Baj Alessandro , Pignatelli Daniele , Gianni Aldo Bruno , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: May 2022

Background: The treatment for severe OSAS includes maxillomandibular advancement surgical option in selected cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the post-operative impact of bimaxillary surgery on satisfaction and consequently the quality of life of these patients. Methods: This study included 18 patients with severe OSAS who received maxillomandibular advancement surgery. Patients were divided into Group A (operated by CAD/CAM) and Group B (conventional surgery). The impact of bimaxillary surgery on satisfaction and quality of life of these patients was evaluated by utilizing post-operative life quality and Rustemeyer’s patient-satisfaction-based survey. Results: A total of 18 adult OSAS patients (Group A: 11 patients, Group B: 7 patients) with a mean age of 44.39 years (SD ± 9.43) were included. Mean follow-up period was 32.64 months (SD ± 21.91). No intra-operative complications were seen in any patients. Post-operative complication was seen in one patient and the mandible did not integrate. According to the results, overall post-operative satisfaction score was 79.72% (SD ± 9.96). There was no significant difference among those in Group A and Group B. Conclusions: Maxillomandibular advancement surgery seems to be beneficial in terms of patients’ satisfaction in severe adult OSAS patients and can be considered as a valuable option in selected cases.
Epiphytic Bryophytes in an Urban Landscape: Which Factors Determine Their Distribution, Species Richness, and Diversity? A Case Study in Wroclaw, Poland
Authors: Żołnierz Ludwik , Fudali Ewa , Szymanowski Mariusz
Published: May 2022

There is still a lack of knowledge on the effect of urban environmental factors on bryophyte species distribution and richness. The goal of this study was to fill that gap. We assumed the hypothesis that the urban heat island is the most important factor affecting epiphytic bryophyte species in urban space. The survey was based on a network of 500 one hectare study plots, scattered throughout the city of Wrocław (SW Poland). A set of 27 environmental factors was assessed in the field, as well as by the collection, processing, and interpretation of satellite imagery, LiDAR scans, and climatological data. Canonical correspondence analysis was used to evaluate the significance of the effect of the studied variables on the distribution of bryophyte epiphytes. The effect of the normalized difference vegetation index on epiphytic bryophyte distribution and richness was the strongest. The effects of the urban heat island as well as the tree species diversity appeared weaker, though significant. Among the tree stands features, the supply of European ash Fraxinus excelsior and tree height appeared to be the strongest. Maintaining afforested areas rich in old tree individuals with cooler and more humid microclimates seems to be crucial to the keeping of epiphytic bryophyte species diversity in the urban landscape.
Development of a Conceptual Data Model for 3D Geospatial Road Management Based on LandInfra Standard: A Case Study of Korea
Authors: Buuveibaatar Munkhbaatar , Lee Kangjae , Lee Wonhee
Published: May 2022

In practice, road management data are typically managed in two-dimensional (2D) geospatial forms. However, 2D geographic information system (GIS)-based road infrastructure management data have limitations in their representation of complex roads, such as interchanges, bridges, and tunnels. As such, complex and large road network management data cannot be adequately managed in a 2D GIS-based form. This study discusses the use of the LandInfra standard for road infrastructure management in Korea, considering its focus on land and civil engineering infrastructure facilities. To facilitate the transition from 2D to 3D GIS, we analyzed existing road management models of road pavement and road register information and created Unified Modeling Language (UML) class diagrams depicting these models. Then, existing road management classes and LandInfra classes were mapped. Based on the results, we propose a road management model based on the Facility, Alignment, and Road parts of LandInfra. For its implementation, several classes of the proposed data model were encoded into InfraGML using real-world data input. Taken together, this study shows how the LandInfra standard can be extended and applied to the field of road infrastructure management in Korea, supporting the transition from a 2D to a 3D GIS-based model.
First Report on Genome Editing via Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) in Castanea sativa Mill.
Authors: Pavese Vera , Moglia Andrea , Abbà Silvia , Milani Anna Maria , Torello Marinoni Daniela , Corredoira Elena , Martínez Maria Teresa , Botta Roberto
Published: May 2022

Castanea sativa is an important tree nut species worldwide, highly appreciated for its multifunctional role, in particular for timber and nut production. Nowadays, new strategies are needed to achieve plant resilience to diseases, climate change, higher yields, and nutritional quality. Among the new plant breeding techniques (NPBTs), the CRISPR/Cas9 system represents a powerful tool to improve plant breeding in a short time and inexpensive way. In addition, the CRISPR/Cas9 construct can be delivered into the cells in the form of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), avoiding the integration of exogenous DNA (GMO-free) through protoplast technology that represents an interesting material for gene editing thanks to the highly permeable membrane to DNA. In the present study, we developed the first protoplast isolation protocol starting from European chestnut somatic embryos. The enzyme solution optimized for cell wall digestion contained 1% cellulase Onozuka R-10 and 0.5% macerozyme R-10. After incubation for 4 h at 25 °C in dark conditions, a yield of 4,500,000 protoplasts/mL was obtained (91% viable). The transfection capacity was evaluated using the GFP marker gene, and the percentage of transfected protoplasts was 51%, 72 h after the transfection event. The direct delivery of the purified RNP was then performed targeting the phytoene desaturase gene. Results revealed the expected target modification by the CRISPR/Cas9 RNP and the efficient protoplast editing.
Structural Properties and Hydrolysability of Paulownia elongate: The Effects of Pretreatment Methods Based on Acetic Acid and Its Combination with Sodium Sulfite or Sodium Sulfite
Authors: Wang Hanxing , Chen Ni , Xie Feifan , Verkasalo Erkki , Chu Jie
Published: May 2022

The effects of CH3COOH and Na2SO3 pretreatment on the structural properties and hydrolyzability of fast-growing Paulownia elongate were investigated. Acetic acid increased cellulose’s crystallinity and hydrolyzability when combined with alkaline sodium sulfite and sodium hydroxide. The cellulose content increased by 21%, the lignin content decreased by 6%, and the product showed better enzymatic digestibility. With a cellulase dose of 30 FPU/g DM, after 72 h hydrolysis, the hydrolysis yields of glucose and xylose were 78% and 83%, respectively, which were 51% and 69% higher than those of untreated materials. When the enzyme dosage was 20 FPU/g DM, after 72 h hydrolysis, the hydrolysis yields of glucose and xylose were 74% and 79%, respectively. The high hydrolyzability, low enzyme loading, and high hydrolysis yield demonstrate the potential of the proposed system for producing platform sugars from fast-growing Paulownia elongate.
Ag Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications—Synthesis and Characterization—A Review
Authors: Nicolae-Maranciuc Alexandra , Chicea Dan , Chicea Liana Maria
Published: May 2022

Silver nanoparticles have been intensively studied over a long period of time because they exhibit antibacterial properties in infection treatments, wound healing, or drug delivery systems. The advantages that silver nanoparticles offer regarding the functionalization confer prolonged stability and make them suitable for biomedical applications. Apart from functionalization, silver nanoparticles exhibit various shapes and sizes depending on the conditions used through their fabrications and depending on their final purpose. This paper presents a review of silver nanoparticles with respect to synthesis procedures, including the polluting green synthesis. Currently, the most commonly used characterization techniques required for nanoparticles investigation in antibacterial treatments are described briefly, since silver nanoparticles possess differences in their structure or morphology.
Epithelioid Pleural Mesothelioma Is Characterized by Tertiary Lymphoid Structures in Long Survivors: Results from the MATCH Study
Authors: Mannarino Laura , Paracchini Lara , Pezzuto Federica , Olteanu Gheorghe Emilian , Moracci Laura , Vedovelli Luca , De Simone Irene , Bosetti Cristina , Lupi Monica , Amodeo Rosy , Inglesi Alessia , Callari Maurizio , Penpa Serena , Libener Roberta , Delfanti Sara , De Angelis Antonina , Muzio Alberto , Zucali Paolo Andrea , Allavena Paola , Ceresoli Giovanni Luca , Marchini Sergio , Calabrese Fiorella , D’Incalci Maurizio , Grosso Federica
Published: May 2022

Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is an aggressive tumor with few therapeutic options. Although patients with epithelioid PM (ePM) survive longer than non-epithelioid PM (non-ePM), heterogeneity of tumor response in ePM is observed. The role of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in the development and progression of PM is currently considered a promising biomarker. A few studies have used high-throughput technologies correlated with TIME evaluation and morphologic and clinical data. This study aimed to identify different morphological, immunohistochemical, and transcriptional profiles that could potentially predict the outcome. A retrospective multicenter cohort of 129 chemonaive PM patients was recruited. Tissue slides were reviewed by dedicated pathologists for histotype classification and immunophenotype of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and lymphoid aggregates or tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS). ePM (n = 99) survivors were further classified into long (>36 months) or short (<12 months) survivors. RNAseq was performed on a subset of 69 samples. Distinct transcriptional profiling in long and short ePM survivors was found. An inflammatory background with a higher number of B lymphocytes and a prevalence of TLS formations were detected in long compared to short ePM survivors. These results suggest that B cell infiltration could be important in modulating disease aggressiveness, opening a pathway for novel immunotherapeutic approaches.
Different Effects of RNAi-Mediated Downregulation or Chemical Inhibition of NAMPT in an Isogenic IDH Mutant and Wild-Type Glioma Cell Model
Authors: Clausing Maximilian , William Doreen , Preussler Matthias , Biedermann Julia , Grützmann Konrad , Richter Susan , Buchholz Frank , Temme Achim , Schröck Evelin , Klink Barbara
Published: May 2022

The IDH1R132H mutation in glioma results in the neoenzymatic function of IDH1, leading to the production of the oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG), alterations in energy metabolism and changes in the cellular redox household. Although shifts in the redox ratio NADPH/NADP+ were described, the consequences for the NAD+ synthesis pathways and potential therapeutic interventions were largely unexplored. Here, we describe the effects of heterozygous IDH1R132H on the redox system in a CRISPR/Cas edited glioblastoma model and compare them with IDH1 wild-type (IDH1wt) cells. Besides an increase in 2-HG and decrease in NADPH, we observed an increase in NAD+ in IDH1R132H glioblastoma cells. RT-qPCR analysis revealed the upregulation of the expression of the NAD+ synthesis enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT). Knockdown of NAMPT resulted in significantly reduced viability in IDH1R132H glioblastoma cells. Given this dependence of IDH1R132H cells on NAMPT expression, we explored the effects of the NAMPT inhibitors FK866, GMX1778 and GNE-617. Surprisingly, these agents were equally cytotoxic to IDH1R132H and IDH1wt cells. Altogether, our results indicate that targeting the NAD+ synthesis pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy in IDH mutant gliomas; however, the agent should be carefully considered since three small-molecule inhibitors of NAMPT tested in this study were not suitable for this purpose.
Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting as a Method to Improve Necrozoospermia-Related Asthenozoospermic Samples
Authors: Máté Gábor , Balló András , Márk László , Czétány Péter , Szántó Árpád , Török Attila
Published: May 2022

According to some statistics, absolute asthenozoospermia affects every 1 in 5000 men. Although this incidence rate does not appear to be too high, it is extremely important to address the phenomenon because it can drastically reduce the chances of pregnancy, even with assisted reproduction. The biggest problem with absolute asthenozoospermia is that it is difficult to distinguish between live and dead sperm cells, and fertilization with non-viable spermatozoa may contribute to the failure of an assisted reproduction cycle. Nowadays, DNA fragmentation (DF) is a crucial parameter of semen analysis, and in this paper, we provide evidence of the correlation between DF and vitality. For this purpose, the main semen parameters were investigated by a CASA system (concentration, motility, progressive motility, vitality and DF). In the necrozoospermic group (vitality < 58%), all the measured parameters showed significant differences compared to normal vitality. Concentration (30.1 M mL−1 vs. 13.6 M mL−1), motility (31.9% vs. 18.3%), and progressive motility (24.3% vs. 12.7%) were significantly decreased, while DF was significantly increased (17.4% vs. 23.7%). Based on the connection between vitality decrement and DF increment, DF lowering methods, such as magnetic-activated cell sorting, have been hypothesized as novel methods for the elimination of dead spermatozoa.
Digital Hebrew Paleography: Script Types and Modes
Authors: Droby Ahmad , Rabaev Irina , Shapira Daria Vasyutinsky , Kurar Barakat Berat , El-Sana Jihad
Published: May 2022

Paleography is the study of ancient and medieval handwriting. It is essential for understanding, authenticating, and dating historical texts. Across many archives and libraries, many handwritten manuscripts are yet to be classified. Human experts can process a limited number of manuscripts; therefore, there is a need for an automatic tool for script type classification. In this study, we utilize a deep-learning methodology to classify medieval Hebrew manuscripts into 14 classes based on their script style and mode. Hebrew paleography recognizes six regional styles and three graphical modes of scripts. We experiment with several input image representations and network architectures to determine the appropriate ones and explore several approaches for script classification. We obtained the highest accuracy using hierarchical classification approach. At the first level, the regional style of the script is classified. Then, the patch is passed to the corresponding model at the second level to determine the graphical mode. In addition, we explore the use of soft labels to define a value we call squareness value that indicates the squareness/cursiveness of the script. We show how the graphical mode labels can be redefined using the squareness value. This redefinition increases the classification accuracy significantly. Finally, we show that the automatic classification is on-par with a human expert paleographer.
Desktop Research into Historic Automation Projects of Brownfield Container Terminals
Authors: Burgos Gajardo Luis , Taneja Poonam , van Koningsveld Mark
Published: May 2022

There is a global trend of automation of container terminals. However, there is a lack of literature to guide automation projects for brownfield terminals. Therefore, the experiences and lessons learnt from historical brownfield automation of container terminals are a valuable source of information to guide future projects. This paper describes the brownfield container terminal automation projects carried out in recent years. For each project, the drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks of automation were gathered using a questionnaire directed to operators of brownfield converted container terminals. The characteristics as to the terminal sizes and implemented solutions were gathered via a desk study. It was found that the main drivers for automation are operational cost reductions and higher productivity. However, the desired levels are not always reached and depend on the terminal conditions and the solutions adopted. The continuity of operations was also identified as a major challenge. Terminals have dealt with it either by following a phased, greenfield-like, or big bang approach. Most terminals have opted for semi-automated solutions (automation of yard equipment only); this resulted in fewer labor problems, improved vessel productivity, less required space, and better agility in dealing with disruptions. Most terminals have chosen either automated RMG or the automated version of their manned equipment for yard operations, although exceptions were observed.
A SOM−RBFnn-Based Calibration Algorithm of Modeled Significant Wave Height for Nearshore Areas
Authors: Hu Hengyu , He Zhengwei , Ling Yanfang , Li Junmin , Sun Lu , Li Bo , Liu Junliang , Chen Wuyang
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a calibration algorithm for forecasting the significant wave height (SWH) in nearshore areas is proposed, based on artificial neural networks. The algorithm has two features: first, it is based on SOM−BRFnn (self−organizing map–radial basis function neural network) to better reflect the clustering characteristics of the input parameters regarding wind and wave. In addition, the high-frequency variation part and the low-frequency variation part of SWH are separated by a threshold of 24 h to better describe the diurnal variation of SWH under the influence of tidal current. The algorithm is applied to the nearshore region of Nan-ao Island in the northeastern South China Sea. The results show that the algorithm can effectively correct the modeling results of nearshore SWH. Compared with the original outputs of the ERA5 model, the correlation coefficient is increased from 0.472 to 0.774, the root mean square error is reduced from 0.252 m to 0.103 m, and the mean relative error is reduced from 41% to 17.6%, respectively. Further analysis indicates that the frequency division is crucial in realizing the correction of the high-frequency variation of SWH. The results have reference significance for the application of wave numerical models in coastal areas.
Efficacy of Inhaled N-Chlorotaurine in a Mouse Model of Lichtheimia corymbifera and Aspergillus fumigatus Pneumonia
Authors: Speth Cornelia , Rambach Günter , Windisch Andrea , Neurauter Magdalena , Maier Hans , Nagl Markus
Published: May 2022

N-chlorotaurine (NCT) can be used topically as a well-tolerated anti-infective at different body sites. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of inhaled NCT in a mouse model of fungal pneumonia. Specific pathogen-free female C57BL/6JRj seven-week-old mice were immune-suppressed with cyclophosphamide. After 4 days, the mice were inoculated intranasally with 1.5 × 10E7 spores of Lichtheimia corymbifera or 1.0 × 10E7 spores of Aspergillus fumigatus. They were randomized and treated three times daily for 10 min with aerosolized 1% NCT or 0.9% sodium chloride starting 1 h after the inoculation. The mice were observed for survival for two weeks, and fungal load, blood inflammation parameters, bronchoalveolar lavage, and histology of organs were evaluated upon their death or at the end of this period. Inhalations were well-tolerated. After challenge with L. corymbifera, seven out of the nine mice (77.8%) survived for 15 days in the test group, which was in strong contrast to one out of the nine mice (11.1%) in the control group (p = 0.0049). The count of colony-forming units in the homogenized lung tissues came to 1.60 (1.30; 1.99; median, quartiles) log10 in the test group and to 4.26 (2.17; 4.53) log10 in the control group (p = 0.0032). Body weight and temperature, white blood count, and haptoglobin significantly improved with NCT treatment. With A. fumigatus, all the mice except for one in the test group died within 4 days without a significant difference from the control group. Inhaled NCT applied early demonstrated a highly significant curative effect in L. corymbifera pneumonia, while this could not be shown in A. fumigatus pneumonia, probably due to a too high inoculum. Nevertheless, this study for the first time disclosed efficacy of NCT in pneumonia in vivo.
Pulmonary Sporotrichosis Caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis: A 22-Year, Single-Center, Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fichman Vivian , Mota-Damasceno Caroline Graça , Procópio-Azevedo Anna Carolina , Almeida-Silva Fernando , de Macedo Priscila Marques , Medeiros Denise Machado , Astacio Guis Saint-Martin , Zancopé-Oliveira Rosely Maria , Almeida-Paes Rodrigo , Freitas Dayvison Francis Saraiva , Gutierrez-Galhardo Maria Clara
Published: May 2022

Pulmonary sporotrichosis is a rare condition. It can present as a primary pulmonary disease, resulting from direct Sporothrix species (spp). conidia inhalation, or as part of multifocal sporotrichosis with multiple organ involvement, mainly in immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic and epidemiological characteristics and clinical course of patients with positive cultures for Sporothrix spp. from pulmonary specimens (sputum and/or bronchoalveolar lavage) at a reference center in an area hyperendemic for zoonotic sporotrichosis. The clinical records of these patients were reviewed. Fourteen patients were included, and Sporothrix brasiliensis was identified in all cases. Disseminated sporotrichosis was the clinical presentation in 92.9% of cases, and primary pulmonary sporotrichosis accounted for 7.1%. Comorbidities included human immunodeficiency virus infection (78.6%), alcoholism (71.4%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (14.3%). Treatment with amphotericin B followed by itraconazole was the preferred regimen and was prescribed in 92.9% of cases. Sporotrichosis-related death occurred in 42.9% while 35.7% of patients were cured. In five cases there was a probable contamination from upper airway lesions. Despite the significant increase in sporotrichosis cases, pulmonary sporotrichosis remains rare. The treatment of disseminated sporotrichosis is typically difficult. Prompt diagnosis and identification of all affected organs are crucial for better prognosis.
CD44 Mediates Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Promoting Activity of MRE11 via AKT Signaling
Authors: Yuan Shyng-Shiou F. , Hung Amos C. , Hsu Ching-Wei , Lan Ting-Hsun , Su Chang-Wei , Chi Tsung-Chen , Chang Yu-Chiuan , Chen Yuk-Kwan , Wang Yen-Yun
Published: May 2022

Oral cancer is one of the highest-incidence malignancies worldwide, with the occurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) being the most frequently diagnosed form. A barrier for oral cancer management may arise from tumor cells that possess properties of cancer stemness, which has been recognized as a crucial factor in tumor recurrence and metastasis. As such, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these tumor cells may provide insights for improving cancer treatment. MRE11 is the core protein of the RAD50/MRE11/NBS1 complex with a primary role in DNA damage repair, and it has been diversely associated with tumor development including OSCC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the engagement of CD44, a cancer stemness marker functioning in the control of cell growth and motility, in OSCC malignancy under the influence of MRE11. We found that overexpression of MRE11 enhanced CD44 expression and tumorsphere formation in OSCC cells, whereas knockdown of MRE11 reduced these phenomena. In addition, the MRE11-promoted tumorsphere formation or cell migration ability was compromised in OSCC cells carrying siRNA that targets CD44, as was the MRE11-promoted AKT phosphorylation. These were further supported by analyzing clinical samples, where higher CD44 expression was associated with lymph node metastasis. Additionally, a positive correlation between the expression of MRE11 and CD44, or that of CD44 and phosphorylated AKT, was observed in OSCC tumor tissues. Finally, the expression of CD44 was found to be higher in the metastatic lung nodules from mice receiving tail vein-injection with MRE11-overexpressing OSCC cells compared with control mice, and a positive correlation between CD44 and phosphorylated AKT was also observed in these metastatic lung nodules. Altogether, our current study revealed a previously unidentified mechanism linking CD44 and AKT in MRE11-promoted OSCC malignancy, which may shed light to the development of novel therapeutic strategies in consideration of this new pathway in OSCC.
In Vivo Accuracy of a New Digital Planning System in Terms of Jaw Relation, Extent of Surgical Movements and the Hierarchy of Stability in Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Stamm Thomas , Andriyuk Eugenia , Kleinheinz Johannes , Jung Susanne , Dirksen Dieter , Middelberg Claudius
Published: May 2022

This retrospective cohort study compares the virtual planned and postoperative jaw positions in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Surgery was virtually planned with the Digital Münster Model Surgery system (DMMS). Primary outcome: Spatial difference in the maxillo-mandibulo relation between virtual planning and postoperative result. Secondary outcome: Possible relationship between the measured differences and surgical movements as well as the postoperative stability according to Proffit. Ninety female and sixty-one male patients were included in the study. The average translation errors were 0.54 ± 0.50 mm (anteroposterior), 0.37 ± 0.33 mm (mediolateral), and 0.33 ± 0.28 mm (superoinferior). Orientation errors were 0.86 ± 0.79 degrees (yaw), 0.54 ± 0.48 degrees (roll), and 0.90 ± 0.72 degrees (pitch). The surgical procedures do not differ with respect to their error sizes. Maxilla forward and class II maxilla up with mandible forward are the most precise procedures. Most significant differences were found in the anteroposterior direction, whereby the extent of the surgical movement has no effect on the magnitude of the error. The process of planning with the DMMS followed by surgery is highly accurate and shows error values well below the clinically accepted limit of two millimeters in translation and four degrees in rotation.
The Spatiotemporal Non-Stationary Effect of Industrial Agglomeration on Urban Land Use Efficiency: A Case Study of Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Hu Hangang , Pan Lisha , Jing Xin , Li Guan , Zhuo Yuefei , Xu Zhongguo , Chen Yang , Wang Xueqi
Published: May 2022

All over the world, Industrial agglomeration has become a key to improve the efficiency of urban land use and regulate the process of urbanization. Industrial agglomeration, as a universal economic geographical phenomenon, has been extensively studied, but few scholars have discussed the relationship between industrial agglomeration and urban land use efficiency. Based on this, after classifying the type of agglomeration externalities, our study uses OLS and GTWR models to explore the complex mechanism of interaction between industrial agglomeration externalities and urban land use efficiency, especially the spatiotemporal non-stationary characteristics. We found that the impact of industrial agglomeration externalities on urban land use efficiency is significantly unstable in time and space, and the coexistence, substitution and aging mechanism of agglomeration externalities among different types were also observed. Our research can provide reference for city managers to formulate reasonable industrial policies and enterprises to choose the location. Meanwhile, our research has made some contributions to the academic research on urban land use efficiency.
Circulating miRNA-195-5p and -451a in Patients with Acute Hemorrhagic Stroke in Emergency Department
Authors: Giordano Mauro , Trotta Maria Consiglia , Ciarambino Tiziana , D’Amico Michele , Schettini Federico , Sisto Angela Di , D’Auria Valentina , Voza Antonio , Malatino Lorenzo Salvatore , Biolo Gianni , Mearelli Filippo , Franceschi Francesco , Paolisso Giuseppe , Adinolfi Luigi Elio
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: In our previous study, acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients showed increased levels of circulating miRNAs (-195-5p and -451a) involved in vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) regulation. Here, we evaluated, for the first time, both circulating miRNAs in acute intracerebral hemorrhagic (ICH) patients. (2) Methods: Circulating miRNAs and serum VEGF-A were assessed by real-time PCR and ELISA in 20 acute ICH, 21 AIS patients, and 21 controls. These were evaluated at hospital admission (T0) and after 96 h (T96) from admission. (3) Results: At T0, circulating miRNAs were five-times up-regulated in AIS patients, tending to decrease at T96. By contrast, in the acute ICH group, circulating miRNAs were significantly increased at both T0 and T96. Moreover, a significant decrease was observed in serum VEGF-A levels at T0 in AIS patients, tending to increase at T96. Conversely, in acute ICH patients, the levels of VEGF-A were significantly decreased at both T0 and T96. (4) Conclusions: The absence of a reduction in circulating miRNAs (195-5p and -451a), reported in acute ICH subjects after 96 h from hospital admission, together with the absence of increment of serum VEGF-A, may represent useful biomarkers indicating the severe brain damage status that characterizes acute ICH patients.
Pulmonary Artery Pressure-Guided Telemonitoring Reduced Pulmonary Artery Pressure but Did Not Result in Higher Doses of Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy–Observations from an Advanced Elderly German Heart Failure Cohort
Authors: Herrmann Ester J. , Raghavan Badrinarayanan , Eissing Nina , Fichtlscherer Stephan , Hamm Christian W. , Assmus Birgit
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Remote pulmonary artery pressure (PAP)-guided heart failure (HF) therapy for NYHA class III patients has been shown to reduce hospitalizations and increase survival. We aimed to assess whether PAP monitoring allows for the increase in HF directed medication in an elderly German cohort of advanced HF patients already receiving clinically optimized HF medication. Methods: We analyzed PAP and HF medication dosage, including diuretics, in 24 patients (mean age, 76 years) using implanted PAP-sensors during the first 12 months of PAP-guided HF care in an interdisciplinary HF unit. Results: During 12 months of PAP-guided HF therapy, PAP decreased significantly (△PAP systolic–6 ± 10, △PAP diastolic–4 ± 7, △PAP mean–4 ± 8 mm Hg, p < 0.01 for all). 16% of patients had an unplanned HF hospitalization. There was no significant change over time with respect to the dosage of RAAS inhibitors (ACE-I/ARB/ARNI), Beta blockers, or MRA treatments. In contrast, the dosage of loop diuretics increased significantly (2.1 ± 0.5-fold) over time. In the comparison of a “responder” (patients with PAP and diuretic dose decline) and “non-responder” (patients with PAP and diuretic dose increase) group, there were no significant differences between any of the baseline, medication, or HF hospitalization characteristics between the two groups. Conclusions: In elderly patients treated with clinically optimized HF medication, no further evidence-based medication increase could be achieved using PAP-guided HF care. However, by individual adjustment of diuretic dosage, a significant decline in PAP over time occurred, which could not be predicted by any of the baseline characteristics.
Antiproliferative Effect of Phellodendron amurense Rupr. Based on Angiogenesis
Authors: Balážová Ľudmila , Kurhajec Slavomír , Kello Martin , Bedlovičová Zdenka , Zigová Martina , Petrovová Eva , Beňová Katarína , Mojžiš Ján , Eftimová Jarmila
Published: May 2022

Phellodendron amurense Rupr. is medicinal plant used for supplemental therapy of various diseases based on their positive biological activities. The aim of this study was evaluated the main metabolite, safety of application and anticancer potential. Berberine was determined by HPLC as main alkaloid. Harmful character was determined by irritation test in ovo. The potential cancerogenic effect was studied in vitro on a cellular level, in ovo by CAM assay and in vivo on whole organism Artemia franciscana. Extract from the bark of Phellodendron amurense showed antiproliferative and antiangiogenic effects. The results of our work showed promising anticancer effects based also on the inhibition of angiogenesis with minimum negative effects.
Analytical and Numerical Monotonicity Analyses for Discrete Delta Fractional Operators
Authors: Nonlaopon Kamsing , Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman , Hamed Y. S. , Muhammad Rebwar Salih , Brzo Aram Bahroz , Aydi Hassen
Published: May 2022

In this paper, first, we intend to determine the relationship between the sign of Δc0βy(c0+1), for 1<β<2, and Δy(c0+1)>0, in the case we assume that Δc0βy(c0+1) is negative. After that, by considering the set Dℓ+1,θ⊆Dℓ,θ, which are subsets of (1,2), we will extend our previous result to make the relationship between the sign of Δc0βy(z) and Δy(z)>0 (the monotonicity of y), where Δc0βy(z) will be assumed to be negative for each z∈Nc0T:={c0,c0+1,c0+2,⋯,T} and some T∈Nc0:={c0,c0+1,c0+2,⋯}. The last part of this work is devoted to see the possibility of information reduction regarding the monotonicity of y despite the non-positivity of Δc0βy(z) by means of numerical simulation.
A Spatio-Temporal Graph Neural Network Approach for Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Li Yanbing , Zhao Wei , Fan Huilong
Published: May 2022

The accuracy of short-term traffic flow prediction is one of the important issues in the construction of smart cities, and it is an effective way to solve the problem of traffic congestion. Most previous studies could not effectively mine the potential relationship between the temporal and spatial dimensions of traffic data flow. Due to the large variability in the traffic flow data of road conditions, we analyzed it with “dynamic”, using a dynamic-aware graph neural network model for the hidden relationships between space-time in the deep learning segment. In this paper, we propose a dynamic perceptual graph neural network model for the temporal and spatial hidden relationships of deep learning segments. This model mixes temporal features and spatial features with graphs and expresses them. The temporal features and spatial features are connected to each other to learn potential relationships, so as to more accurately predict the traffic speed in the future time period, we performed experiments on real data sets and compared with some baseline models. The experiments show that the method proposed in this paper has certain advantages.
A Sylvester-Type Matrix Equation over the Hamilton Quaternions with an Application
Authors: Liu Long-Sheng , Wang Qing-Wen , Mehany  Mahmoud Saad
Published: May 2022

We derive the solvability conditions and a formula of a general solution to a Sylvester-type matrix equation over Hamilton quaternions. As an application, we investigate the necessary and sufficient conditions for the solvability of the quaternion matrix equation, which involves η-Hermicity. We also provide an algorithm with a numerical example to illustrate the main results of this paper.
An Efficient Computational Technique for the Electromagnetic Scattering by Prolate Spheroids
Authors: Tognolatti Ludovica , Ponti Cristina , Santarsiero Massimo , Schettini Giuseppe
Published: May 2022

In this paper we present an efficient Matlab computation of a 3-D electromagnetic scattering problem, in which a plane wave impinges with a generic inclination onto a conducting ellipsoid of revolution. This solid is obtained by the rotation of an ellipse around one of its axes, which is also known as a spheroid. We have developed a fast and ad hoc code to solve the electromagnetic scattering problem, using spheroidal vector wave functions, which are special functions used to describe physical problems in which a prolate or oblate spheroidal reference system is considered. Numerical results are presented, both for TE and TM polarization of the incident wave, and are validated by a comparison with results obtained by a commercial electromagnetic simulator.
Understanding Aging Mechanisms in the Context of UV Irradiation of a Low Fouling and Self-Cleaning PVDF-PVP-TiO2 Hollow-Fiber Membrane
Authors: Roubaud Emma , Maréchal William , Lorain Olivier , Lamaa Lina , Peruchon Laure , Brochier Cédric , Mendret Julie , Mericq Jean-Pierre , Brosillon Stephan , Faur Catherine , Causserand Christel
Published: May 2022

In the context of designing a photocatalytic self-cleaning/low-fouling membrane, the stability of PVDF-PVP-TiO2 hollow-fiber membranes under UV irradiation has been studied. The effect of irradiation power, aqueous environment composition and fouling state on the properties of the membranes has been investigated. With this aim, SEM observations, chemical analysis and tensile strength measurements have been conducted. The results indicate that pristine membranes that undergo UV irradiation in ultra-pure water are significantly degraded due to attacks of OH° radicals. However, when methylene blue, used as a model pollutant, is introduced in the aqueous environment, OH° radicals preferentially react with this molecule rather than the membranes, successfully preserving the original properties of the latter. The presence of an adsorbed BSA layer (pre-fouling by immersion) on the surface of the membrane delays membrane aging, as the BSA layer is degraded by radicals instead of the membrane material. The degradation of the BSA layer also validates the self-cleaning properties of the membrane. However, when membranes are pre-fouled by filtration of a 2 g/L BSA solution, delay to aging is less. This is because OH° radicals do not reach BSA molecules that are trapped inside the membrane pores, and therefore react with the membrane material.
Intestinal Absorption Study of a Granular Form of Ferric Pyrophosphate
Authors: Micheletto Marta , Gaio Elisa , Tedesco Erik , Di Maira Giovanni , Mantovan Etienne , Zanella Michela , Pastore Paolo , Roverso Marco , Favaro Gabriella , Benetti Federico
Published: May 2022

Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders worldwide. The standard treatment involves iron supplementation, but this task is challenging because of poor solubility and organoleptic issues. Moreover, the need to increase iron bioavailability represents a challenge for treating iron-related disorders. In this study, gastroresistance and iron intestinal absorption of an innovative granular formulation composed of ferric pyrophosphate, modified starch and phospholipids branded as Ferro Fosfosoma® was investigated. Gastroresistant properties were studied using standard protocols, and a bioaccessible fraction was obtained by exposing a food supplement to in vitro digestion. This fraction was used for investigating iron absorption in Caco-2 and human follicle-associated intestinal epithelium (FAE) models. Ferro Fosfosoma® showed an improved resistance to gastric digestion and higher intestinal absorption than ferric pyrophosphate salt used as a control in both models. In the FAE model, Ferro Fosfosoma® induces larger iron absorption than in the Caco-2 monolayer, most likely due to the transcytosis ability of M cells. The larger iron absorption in the Ferro Fosfosoma®-treated FAE model corresponds to higher ferritin level, proving physiological iron handling that was once delivered by granular formulation. Finally, the formulation did not induce any alterations in viability and barrier integrity. To conclude, Ferro Fosfosoma® favors iron absorption and ferritin expression, while preserving any adverse effects.