bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Efficacy of the Rho-Kinase Inhibitor (Ripasudil) in Bleb Needling after Trabeculectomy: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Mizuno Yu , Komatsu Kaori , Tokumo Kana , Okada Naoki , Onoe Hiromitsu , Okumichi Hideaki , Hirooka Kazuyuki , Aoki Gaku , Miura Yukiko , Kiuchi Yoshiaki
Published: December 2023

Ripasudil, a rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor ophthalmic solution, shows a protective effect in preventing excessive scarring in vitro. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ripasudil for glaucoma patients submitted to the needling procedure. In this prospective, multicenter, single-arm study, we included 20 eyes of 20 patients with glaucoma who underwent the needling procedure without antimetabolites. All patients administered ripasudil after needling for three months. The primary endpoint of this study was the safety of ripasudil in patients, and the secondary endpoint was the change in IOP at 12 weeks after the needling procedure. No serious complications were found in the patients. One eye experienced pruritus and conjunctival follicle, while another eye had conjunctival follicle. These complications were transient and resolved quickly after discontinuation of ripasudil. The mean preoperative IOP was 14.6 ± 4.6 mmHg, which decreased to 11.0 ± 4.7 mmHg (p = 0.0062) at 1 week postoperatively. The IOP reduction effect continued to 12 weeks (11.8 ± 3.1 mmHg; p = 0.0448). The administration of the ROCK inhibitor, ripasudil, after the needling procedure is safe and effective in maintaining IOP for 12 weeks.
The Impact of Blood Morphological Parameters on Treatment Outcomes in Tennis Elbow Patients Receiving Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A Prospective Study
Authors: Szyluk Karol , Bubnov Rostyslav , Jarosz Alicja , Reguła Rafał , Grabowski Piotr , Iwanicka Joanna , Iwanicki Tomasz , Gierek Marcin , Sieroń Dominik , Christe Andreas , Niemiec Paweł
Published: December 2023

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy holds substantial promise for the treatment of tennis elbow, a complex and challenging musculoskeletal condition. The aim of the study was to assess whether there are correlations between the levels of individual morphotic elements determined in whole blood and the outcomes of tennis elbow treatment with PRP injection, as measured using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QDASH), and Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE). A prospective analysis was conducted on 107 patients (132 elbows) undergoing lateral epicondylitis treatment with (PRP) injections. Patients completed VAS, PRTEE, and QDASH questionnaires on the day of PRP administration and at established checkpoints (2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 52, and 104 weeks). Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was employed to assess the treatment effects. Then, correlations were measured within each PROM, and the impact of the concentration of individual blood parameters on the MCID outcomes was assessed. Analyzing the relationships between the MCID+ and MCID− groups, significant correlations for the VAS and QDASH scales were observed. The level of individual morphotic elements in the blood may have influenced the treatment outcome, as measured using specific patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Regarding the VAS scale, factors favoring a positive treatment outcome included higher values of eosinophils (EOS) and basophils (BASO). For the QDASH scale, these factors were a lower value of mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and a higher mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH). The levels of certain blood parameters, such as EOS and BASO, in the current study influenced the classification of patients into MCID+ or MCID− groups, based on the VAS and QDASH scales.
The Role of Immunoglobulin G4 in Outcomes of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Vujasinovic Miroslav , Said Karouk , Villard Christina , Carlsson Jennifer , Poli Christopher , Maisonneuve Patrick , Löhr J.-Matthias
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic, cholestatic liver disease that is characterized by an inflammatory and fibrotic process affecting bile ducts which eventually develops into liver cirrhosis and liver failure. The aim of this study was to investigate serum IgG subclass distribution in patients with PSC and its possible association with PSC outcomes. Patients and methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 181 patients who had been diagnosed with PSC between January 1970 and December 2015 and followed at our outpatient clinic. Their demographic, immunological, and clinical characteristics were recorded and analyzed. Results: This study included 181 patients with PSC (120 males, 61 females). There was no association between IgGs and the development of autoimmune hepatitis, cirrhosis, cholangiocarcinoma, liver transplantation, inflammatory bowel disease, and colectomy. Patients with elevated IgG4 had statistically significant higher rates of cholangitis (p = 0.02) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (p = 0.009). High IgG4 values were observed in nine patients who underwent ERCP. In these nine patients, on average, IgG4 was evaluated 5 years after ERCP (min 3 days, max 11 years). Subanalysis considering only IgG4 values evaluated before ERCP showed no significant difference but remains significant if we consider IgG4 values after ERCP. Conclusion: Elevated IgG4 in our study showed a possible association with higher rates of cholangitis and ERCP among patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. It seems that IgGs may be a useful tool for the prediction of outcomes in patients with PSC. A prospective study is necessary, especially to study the trends of IgGs values during disease as well as the role of possible seroconversion.
Primary Intracranial Gliosarcoma: Is It Really a Variant of Glioblastoma? An Update of the Clinical, Radiological, and Biomolecular Characteristics
Authors: La Torre Domenico , Della Torre Attilio , Lo Turco Erica , Longo Prospero , Pugliese Dorotea , Lacroce Paola , Raudino Giuseppe , Romano Alberto , Lavano Angelo , Tomasello Francesco
Published: December 2023

Gliosarcomas (GS) are sporadic malignant tumors classified as a Glioblastoma (GBM) variant with IDH-wild type phenotype. It appears as a well-circumscribed lesion with a biphasic, glial, and metaplastic mesenchymal component. The current knowledge about GS comes from the limited literature. Furthermore, recent studies describe peculiar characteristics of GS, such as hypothesizing that it could be a clinical–pathological entity different from GBM. Here, we review radiological, biomolecular, and clinical data to describe the peculiar characteristics of PGS, treatment options, and outcomes in light of the most recent literature. A comprehensive literature review of PubMed and Web of Science databases was conducted for articles written in English focused on gliosarcoma until 2023. We include relevant data from a few case series and only a single meta-analysis. Recent evidence describes peculiar characteristics of PGS, suggesting that it might be a specific clinical–pathological entity different from GBM. This review facilitates our understanding of this rare malignant brain tumor. However, in the future we recommend multi-center studies and large-scale metanalyses to clarify the biomolecular pathways of PGS to develop new specific therapeutic protocols, different from conventional GBM therapy in light of the new therapeutic opportunities.
Digital Ulcers and Ventricular Arrhythmias as Red Flags to Predict Replacement Myocardial Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Gargani Luna , Bruni Cosimo , Todiere Giancarlo , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Bandini Giulia , Bellando-Randone Silvia , Guiducci Serena , D’Angelo Gennaro , Campochiaro Corrado , De Luca Giacomo , Stagnaro Chiara , Lombardi Massimo , Dagna Lorenzo , Pepe Alessia , Allanore Yannick , Moggi-Pignone Alberto , Matucci-Cerinic Marco
Published: December 2023

Background: Cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) affects the prognosis of the disease. Echocardiography is the first line imaging tool to detect cardiac involvement, but it is not able to routinely detect myocardial fibrosis. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for replacement myocardial fibrosis assessment, but its availability is currently limited. Aim: We aimed to assess the clinical and instrumental parameters that would be useful for predicting the presence of LGE-CMR, to achieve a better selection of patients with SSc that could benefit from third-level CMR imaging. Methods: 344 SSc patients underwent a comprehensive echocardiogram and LGE-CMR on the same day; for 189 patients, a 24 h ECG Holter monitoring was available. Results: CMR showed non-junctional replacement myocardial fibrosis via LGE in 25.1% patients. A history of digital ulcers (OR 2.188; 95% C.I. 1.069–4.481) and ventricular arrhythmias at ECG Holter monitoring (OR 3.086; 95% C.I. 1.191–7.998) were independent predictors of replacement myocardial fibrosis. Conclusions: CMR can detect patterns of clinical and subclinical cardiac involvement, which are frequent in SSc. A history of digital ulcers and evidence of ventricular arrhythmias at ECG Holter monitoring are red flags for the presence of replacement myocardial fibrosis in CMR. The association between digital ulcers and myocardial fibrosis suggests that a similar pathological substrate of abnormal vascular function may underlie peripheral vascular and cardiac complications.
Accuracy Analysis of the Multiparametric Acoustic Voice Indices, the VWI, AVQI, ABI, and DSI Measures, in Differentiating between Normal and Dysphonic Voices
Authors: Uloza Virgilijus , Pribuišis Kipras , Ulozaite-Staniene Nora , Petrauskas Tadas , Damaševičius Robertas , Maskeliūnas Rytis
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to investigate and compare the accuracy and robustness of the multiparametric acoustic voice indices (MAVIs), namely the Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI), Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI), Acoustic Breathiness Index (ABI), and Voice Wellness Index (VWI) measures in differentiating normal and dysphonic voices. The study group consisted of 129 adult individuals including 49 with normal voices and 80 patients with pathological voices. The diagnostic accuracy of the investigated MAVI in differentiating between normal and pathological voices was assessed using receiver operating characteristics (ROC). Moderate to strong positive linear correlations were observed between different MAVIs. The ROC statistical analysis revealed that all used measurements manifested in a high level of accuracy (area under the curve (AUC) of 0.80 and greater) and an acceptable level of sensitivity and specificity in discriminating between normal and pathological voices. However, with AUC 0.99, the VWI demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy. The highest Youden index equaled 0.93, revealing that a VWI cut-off of 4.45 corresponds with highly acceptable sensitivity (97.50%) and specificity (95.92%). In conclusion, the VWI was found to be beneficial in describing differences in voice quality status and discriminating between normal and dysphonic voices based on clinical diagnosis, i.e., dysphonia type, implying the VWI’s reliable voice screening potential.
Intra-Articular Local Anesthetics in Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lubecka Karolina , Chęcińska Kamila , Bliźniak Filip , Chęciński Maciej , Turosz Natalia , Michcik Adam , Chlubek Dariusz , Sikora Maciej
Published: December 2023

This systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of local anesthetic administration into temporomandibular joint cavities in relieving pain and increasing mandibular mobility. Randomized controlled trials were included with no limitation on report publication dates. Final searches were performed on 15 October 2023, using engines provided by the US National Library, Bielefeld University, and Elsevier Publishing House. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Articular pain and mandible abduction values and their mean differences were summarized in tables and graphs. Eight studies on a total of 252 patients evaluating intra-articular administration of articaine, bupivacaine, lidocaine, and mepivacaine were included in the systematic review. None of the eligible studies presented a high risk of bias in any of the assessed domains. An analgesic effect of intra-articular bupivacaine was observed for up to 24 h. In the long-term follow-up, there were no statistically significant changes in quantified pain compared to both the baseline value and the placebo group, regardless of the anesthetic used (articaine, bupivacaine, and lidocaine). There is no scientific evidence on the effect of intra-articular administration of local anesthesia on the range of motion of the mandible. Therefore, in the current state of knowledge, the administration of local anesthetics into the temporomandibular joint cavities can only be considered as a short-term pain relief measure.
A Scoping Review of Measurement Tools Evaluating Awareness and Disease-Related Knowledge in Peripheral Arterial Disease Patients
Authors: Felix Carolina Machado de Melo , Pereira Danielle Aparecida Gomes , Pakosh Maureen , Silva Lilian Pinto da , Ghisi Gabriela Lima de Melo
Published: December 2023

Background: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is the third leading cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular morbidity worldwide, with high prevalence and associated complications, and is often overlooked and undertreated. Research has shown that there is a profound lack of PAD-related knowledge and awareness; additionally, information sources are not often reliable and accessible. The objective of this scoping review was: (1) to identify and critically appraise instruments that measure patients’ disease-related knowledge/awareness about PAD, and (2) to characterize the current state of knowledge/awareness levels among these patients. Methods: This systematic review was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Six databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL Ultimate, Embase, Emcare Nursing, Medline ALL and Web of Science Core Collection) were searched, and search strategies were developed utilizing the PICO framework. Potential studies of any methodological design were considered for inclusion through a snowball hand search. Data from the included articles were extracted by a reviewer, and the extraction accuracy was independently cross-checked by another author. Results: The initial database search yielded 9832 records, of which sixteen studies (thirteen quantitative and three qualitative) were included. Only three questionnaires had their psychometric properties assessed. Questionnaire items focused on the following topics: definition/characteristics, risk factors/causes, treatment, complications, and personal issues regarding the perception/management of the disease. Overall, knowledge/awareness about PAD was low among patients. Conclusions: This study identified major gaps in PAD education, including the lack of availability of a validated measurement tool addressing all educational topics relevant to care and low knowledge/awareness of patients about their condition.
A Short Review on Chondroitin Sulphate and Its Based Nanomaterials for Bone Repair and Bone Remodelling Applications
Authors: Divya Mani , Vijayakumar Sekar , Chen Jingdi
Published: December 2023

Joint damage is a major symptom of osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that worsens over time. The purpose of this review was to assess the effectiveness and safety of nanomaterials as an alternative to the widely used methods. Due to its poor regenerative and self-healing properties, cartilage repair after lesions or debilitating disease is a major clinical issue. Here, we use the organometallic chemistry identity of chondroitin sulphate to repair cartilage lesions by creating a nano-elemental particle through electrostatic interactions. As an integral part of the extracellular matrix, chondroitin sulphate (CS) is shown to improve osteogenesis in this review. The injectability of hydrated cement products was greatly improved by the addition of CS, but there was no discernible change in their phase, morphology, apparent porosity, or compressive strength. This review article provides a thorough analysis of the results from the use of nanocomposites in orthopaedic drug delivery and bone remodelling engineering.
Copper Materials for Caries Management: A Scoping Review
Authors: Xu Veena Wenqing , Nizami Mohammed Zahedul Islam , Yin Iris Xiaoxue , Niu John Yun , Yu Ollie Yiru , Chu Chun-Hung
Published: December 2023

This study comprehensively reviewed the types, properties and potential applications of copper materials for caries management. Two researchers independently searched English publications using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. They screened the titles and abstracts of publications presenting original studies for review. They included 34 publications on copper materials, which were categorized as copper and copper alloy materials (13/34, 38%), copper salt materials (13/34, 38%) and copper oxide materials (8/34, 24%). All reported copper materials inhibited the growth of cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. The materials could be doped into topical agents, restorative fillers, dental adhesives, drinking water, dental implants, orthodontic appliances, mouthwash and sugar. Most publications (29/34, 83%) were laboratory studies, five (5/34, 14%) were animal studies and only one paper (1/34, 3%) was clinical research. In conclusion, copper and copper alloy materials, copper salt materials and copper oxide materials have an antimicrobial property that inhibits cariogenic bacteria and Candida albicans. These copper materials may be incorporated into dental materials and even drinking water and sugar for caries prevention. Most publications are laboratory studies. Further clinical studies are essential to validate the effectiveness of copper materials in caries prevention.
Social Understanding beyond the Familiar: Disparity in Visual Abilities Does Not Impede Empathy and Theory of Mind
Authors: Landmann Eva , Krahmer Alina , Böckler Anne
Published: December 2023

Feeling with our conspecifics and understanding their sentiments and intentions is a crucial part of our lives. What is the basis for these forms of social understanding? If individuals ground their understanding of others’ thoughts and feelings in their own perceptual and factual experiences, it could present a challenge to empathize and mentalize with those whose reality of life is significantly different. This preregistered study compared two groups of participants who differed in a central perceptual feature, their visual abilities (visually impaired vs. unimpaired; total N = 56), concerning their social understanding of others who were themselves either visually impaired or unimpaired. Employing an adjusted version of the EmpaToM task, participants heard short, autobiographic narrations by visually impaired or unimpaired individuals, and we assessed their empathic responding and mentalizing performance. Our findings did not reveal heightened empathy and mentalizing proclivities when the narrator’s visual abilities aligned with those of the participant. However, in some circumstances, cognitive understanding of others’ narrations benefitted from familiarity with the situation. Overall, our findings suggest that social understanding does not mainly rely on perceptual familiarity with concrete situations but is likely grounded in sharing emotions and experiences on a more fundamental level.
Speed, Power and Area Optimized Monotonic Asynchronous Array Multipliers
Authors: Balasubramanian Padmanabhan , Mastorakis Nikos E.
Published: December 2023

Multiplication is a fundamental arithmetic operation in electronic processing units such as microprocessors and digital signal processors as it plays an important role in various computational tasks and applications. There exist many designs of synchronous multipliers in the literature. However, in the domain of Input–Output Mode (IOM) asynchronous design, there is relatively less published research on multipliers. Some existing works have considered quasi-delay-insensitive (QDI) asynchronous implementations of multipliers. However, the QDI asynchronous design paradigm, in general, is not area- and speed-efficient. This article presents an efficient alternative implementation of IOM asynchronous multipliers based on the concept of monotonic Boolean networks. The array multiplier architecture has been considered for demonstrating the usefulness of our proposition. The building blocks of the multiplier, such as the partial product generator, half adder, and full adder, were implemented monotonically. The popular dual-rail encoding scheme was considered for encoding the multiplier inputs and outputs, and four-phase return-to-zero handshaking (RZH) and return-to-one handshaking (ROH) were separately considered for communication. Compared to the best of the existing QDI asynchronous array multipliers, the proposed monotonic asynchronous array multiplier achieves the following reductions in design metrics: (i) a 40.1% (44.3%) reduction in cycle time (which is the asynchronous equivalent of synchronous clock timing), a 37.7% (37.7%) reduction in area, and a 4% (4.5%) reduction in power for 4 × 4 multiplication corresponding to RZH (ROH), and (ii) a 58.1% (60.2%) reduction in cycle time, a 45.2% (45.2%) reduction in area, and a 10.3% (11%) reduction in power for 8 × 8 multiplication corresponding to RZH (ROH). The multipliers were implemented using a 28 nm CMOS process technology.
Influence of Salinity on the Survival Rate of Fertilized Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) Eggs
Authors: Park Jong Won , Kim Beom Sik , Kim Ju Kyoung , Jung Hae Kun , Park Hyun Je , Lee Chung Il
Published: December 2023

Chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) exhibit a remarkable ability to adapt to changes in salinity during their life cycle. However, the fertilized egg stages are sensitive to salinity, affecting ontogeny and hatching. This study investigated the effect of salinity (0, 1, 3, and 5 PSU) on the survival of two developmental stages (<1 day after fertilization and <1 day after the eyed-egg stage) of fertilized eggs. Based on the experimental results, we assessed the spawning ground environment using the in situ salinity data of the Namdae River from 1997 to 2002, where the largest number of salmon in Korea migrate to spawn. Survival of the <1-day-old fertilized eggs decreased sharply at 3 PSU or more, and all eggs died at 5 PSU. Hatching of the eyed-egg stage occurred under all environmental conditions. After 2010, the salinity of the layer of water in contact with the sediment in the lower reaches of the river increased (>6.9 PSU) with the frequency of high waves. Overall, the function of the lower river in spawning and hatching is weakening. This study enhances our understanding of the effects of climate change, including increased wave activity, on salmon spawning grounds.
Snapping Shrimp Noise Detection Based on Statistical Model
Authors: Park Suhyeon , Seok Jongwon , Hong Jungpyo
Published: December 2023

Snapping Shrimps (SSs) live in a warm ocean except the North and South Poles, and they are characterized by generating strong shock waves underwater using large claws. Shock waves generated by these SSs are used for marine noise research as a signal and as a noise source, because they cause a decrease in the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), acting as one of the disruptors in fields such as sonar for target detection and underwater communication. A state-of-the-art technique to detect Snapping Shrimp Noise (SSN) is Linear Prediction (LP) analysis. Using the feature where SSN occurs for a very short time, the SSN interval was detected based on the phenomenon where the residuals appear large in the SSN interval when the LP analysis is used. In this paper, we propose an SSN interval detection technique using the Likelihood Ratio (LR) as a follow-up study to the LP-analysis-based method for further performance improvements. The proposed method was used to analyze the statistical distribution characteristics of the LP residual of SSNs compared to Gaussian, Laplace, and Gamma distributions through the Goodness-Of-Fit test. Based on this, the statistical-model-based LRs of the three distributions were computed to detect the SSN interval. Comparing the proposed method with the state-of-the-art method, the proposed method achieved 0.0620, 0.0675, and 0.0662 improvements in Gaussian, Laplace, and Gamma distributions in the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve and Area Under Curve, respectively. The study results confirmed that the proposed method can operate effectively in the marine acoustic environment. This can help find accurate intervals for the automatic labeling of or reduction in SSN.
A 3-D Viscous Vorticity Model for Predicting Turbulent Flows over Hydrofoils
Authors: You Rui , Kinnas Spyros A.
Published: December 2023

This research addresses the demand for a computationally efficient numerical tool capable of predicting 3-D turbulent flows over 3-D hydrofoils, a critical step in ultimately addressing marine propeller or turbine performance. The related software development and its applications are conducted by employing the vorticity-based approach known as the viscous vorticity equation (VISVE). In particular, an existing 3-D laminar VISVE solver was modified in order to handle 3-D turbulent flow scenarios. The extension incorporates the k−ω SST model into the 3-D VISVE solver by using the finite volume method (FVM), thereby broadening its application to turbulent flows. The model was then tested in the case of turbulent flows over 3-D hydrofoils. The results were found to not be sensitive to either grid or time step size and to be in very good agreement with those obtained using a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver. This solver offers distinct advantages, including a significantly reduced computational domain size and reduced computational costs through its vorticity-based approach. Notably, turbulence concentration within boundary layers and free shear flows does not compromise the method’s computational efficiency. The simplified meshing process, which automatically generates the grids based on the number of panels on the hydrofoil, enhances accessibility for researchers and engineers.
Numerical Simulation Study of Seafloor Hydrothermal Circulation Based on HydrothermalFoam: A Case Study of the Wocan-1 Hydrothermal Field, Carlsberg Ridge, Indian Ocean
Authors: Zeng Haoyang , Hu Peng , He Zhiguo , Yao Jinrong , Yang Zhiying
Published: December 2023

Deep-sea hydrothermal circulation plays a pivotal role in the material and energy exchange in deep-sea environments, exerting significant influence on the evolution of seawater chemistry and global climate dynamics. Based on existing data and assumptions, this study presents a numerical model tailored for the hydrothermal circulation in the Wocan-1 Hydrothermal Field, Carlsberg Ridge, Indian Ocean. The model successfully simulates the hydrothermal circulation patterns within the oceanic crust, providing detailed insights into temperature distribution, flow field structures, and elemental concentration gradients. Through data analysis of the simulation results, we inferred the depth and temperature of potential heat sources within the Wocan-1 hydrothermal field. The maximum temperature of the heat source Tmax = 823K (550 °C) and the depth of the heat source h = 1 km are possible results. To deepen understanding of the heat source’s impact on fluid temperatures, a sensitivity analysis was conducted. The findings show a positive correlation between both the heat source’s temperature and its depth with the fluid temperature at vent outlets. Regarding elemental transport, this paper offers a preliminary exploration of the kinetic processes in hydrothermal circulation and presents an empirical relationship linking elemental concentrations at the bottom to those at the vent: Cvent = 0.26 Cboundary. This study enhances current numerical models for hydrothermal vents, offering valuable insights for future work and utilization in the Wocan-1 hydrothermal field, and potentially in any other hydrothermal field.
The Wheat Endophyte Epicoccum layuense J4-3 Inhibits Fusarium graminearum and Enhances Plant Growth
Authors: Nzabanita Clement , Zhang Lihang , Wang Yanfei , Wang Shuangchao , Guo Lihua
Published: December 2023

Fungal endophytes are well-known for their ability to promote plant growth and hinder fungal diseases, including Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum. This study aimed to characterize the biocontrol efficacy of strain J4-3 isolated from the stem of symptomless wheat collected from Heilongjiang Province, China. It was identified as Epicoccum layuense using morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and beta-tubulin (TUB). In a dual culture assay, strain J4-3 significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of F. graminearum strain PH-1 and other fungal pathogens. In addition, wheat coleoptile tests showed that lesion symptoms caused by F. graminearum were significantly reduced in wheat seedlings treated with hyphal fragment suspensions of strain J4-3 compared to the controls. Under field conditions, applying spore suspensions and culture filtrates of strain J4-3 with conidial suspensions of F. graminearum on wheat spikes resulted in the significant biocontrol efficacy of FHB. In addition, wheat seedlings previously treated with spore suspensions of strain J4-3 before sowing successfully resulted in FHB reduction after the application of conidial suspensions of F. graminearum at anthesis. More importantly, wheat seedlings treated with hyphal fragments and spore suspensions of strain J4-3 showed significant increases in wheat growth compared to the controls under greenhouse and field conditions. Overall, these findings suggest that E. layuense J4-3 could be a promising biocontrol agent (BCA) against F. graminearum, causing FHB and a growth-promoting fungus in wheat.
Assessment of Some Risk Factors and Biological Predictors in the Post COVID-19 Syndrome in Asthmatic Patients
Authors: Melinte Oana Elena , Robu Popa Daniela , Dobrin Mona Elisabeta , Cernomaz Andrei Tudor , Grigorescu Cristina , Nemes Alexandra Floriana , Gradinaru Adina Catinca , Vicol Cristina , Todea Doina Adina , Vulturar Damiana Maria , Cioroiu Ionel Bogdan , Trofor Antigona Carmen
Published: December 2023

Long COVID-19 or post-COVID infection (PCI) refers to the prolongation of symptoms in people who have been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Some meta-analysis studies have shown that patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes, obesity or hypertension, have severe complications after infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The presence of chronic respiratory diseases such as bronchial asthma, COPD, pulmonary hypertension or cystic fibrosis increases the risk of developing severe forms of the COVID-19 disease. The risk of developing the severe form of COVID-19 was observed in patients with bronchial asthma being treated with corticosteroids, but also in those hospitalized with severe asthma. The biological variables determined in patients with PCI infection showed changes, especially in the hematological parameters, but also in some inflammatory markers. The aim of this study was to investigate some biological predictors in post-COVID-19 infection in patients with asthma and various comorbidities. In the case of patients diagnosed with moderate and severe forms of COVID-19, the variation in biological tests has shown high concentrations for serum glucose, lactate dehydrogenase and C-reactive protein. Additionally, the calculation of the relative risk (RR) based on the associated comorbidities in patients with PCI points to higher values for patients with asthma, hypertension, diabetes and obesity (RR moderate/severe form = 0.98/1.52), compared to patients with PCI and asthma (RR moderate/severe form = 0.36/0.63). Based on the statistical results, it can be concluded that the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity (p = 0.006) and the age of patients (p = 0.001) are the variables that contribute the most to the separation of the four classes of comorbidities considered.
User Experiences of Pharmacogenomic Testing and Opinions among Psychiatry Patients
Authors: Virelli Catherine R. , Ebrahimi Mahbod , Mohiuddin Ayeshah G. , Tomasi Julia , Lisoway Amanda J. , Herbert Deanna , Marshe Victoria S. , Kidd Sean A. , Ferenbok Joseph , Kennedy James L.
Published: December 2023

Pharmacogenomic testing (PGx) is a tool used to guide physicians in selecting an optimal medication for clients based on their genetic profile. The objective of this qualitative study is to understand patients’ experiences with PGx testing as well as their opinions regarding the clinical adoption of such tests in psychiatry. A focus group was conducted to assess the needs of clients who had experience using a PGx test. Participants were recruited from a large study on PGx testing that offered physicians an opportunity to use PGx reports to guide psychotropic prescriptions. The focus group discussions were recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo to identify core themes. A total of 11 people participated in the focus group. Our analysis revealed that many participants were in favour of implementing PGx testing in psychiatric practice, and all expressed important considerations for patient-centred optimization of PGx testing. The main themes captured were: education and awareness among clinicians, cost considerations, PGx results-sharing and accessibility, and prospective benefits. The results of this study suggest that patients are keen to see PGx testing in widespread clinical care, but they report important opportunities to improve knowledge mobilization of PGx testing.
Stroke and Risk Factors in Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Fan Yangyi , Xu Yicheng , Zhang Sifan , Song Xiaodong , Liu Zunjing , Tu Wenjun , Li Chun
Published: December 2023

Stroke is considered one of the most common and life-threatening manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which leads to high mortality and permanent disability. This study investigated the prevalence and the potential risk factors of stroke in APS. We enrolled 361 APS patients retrospectively from 2009 to 2022 at Peking University People’s Hospital. Stroke was found in 25.8% (93/361) of the participants. The multivariate logistic regression showed that hypertension, diabetes, livedo reticularis, and other central nervous system involvements were significant related factors for stroke. The use of hydroxychloroquine appeared to relate to a lower incidence of stroke. During a median follow-up of 3.0 years, 11.8% (11/93) of the individuals with a previous stroke developed stroke recurrence, and thrombocytopenia seemed to be a predictor of stroke recurrence.
Urban Green Infrastructure: Does Species’ Origin Impair Ecosystem Services Provision?
Authors: Andrade Mónica , Fernandes Cláudia , Coutinho António , Figueiredo Albano
Published: December 2023

The adverse effects of urbanized areas’ growth might be mitigated by the multiple ecosystem services that urban green infrastructure provides. However, the design and composition of such infrastructure is still a hotly debated issue, mainly considering the challenges associated with the use of exotic plant species. To assess if there is a clear association between the species’ origin and ecosystem services or ecosystem disservices, an in-depth systematic literature review was carried out based on a bibliometric approach to assess the panorama of the scientific perspective. Based on the results, a detailed analysis was performed for the urban green infrastructure of five European Mediterranean cities, where management and expansion of the urban green infrastructure might act as tools to mitigate climate change and biodiversity loss. Urban green infrastructure benefits to urban areas and its composition must consider the balance between services and disservices provided by plant species. Data analysis shows that disservices are not exclusively related to exotic species, revealing that plant species selection based on their origin represents a biased approach, as it often disregards the higher capacity of some exotic species to thrive under continuous pressure and disturbance, along with relevant and highly valued cultural services provided. Since exotic species are commonly used, ecosystems formed can be seen as experiments to support decisions, allowing new approaches to planning, designing, and maintaining urban green infrastructure.
Spatial Equity of Urban Park Distribution: Examining the Floating Population within Urban Park Catchment Areas in the Context of the 15-Minute City
Authors: Jeon Youngmee , Jung Seunghyun
Published: December 2023

Urban parks, as major components of green infrastructure, have contributed to natural landscape preservation, ecosystem service provision, residents’ physical and mental health enhancement, and social cohesion intensification, under the emphasis on the need for sustainable urban development. However, urban parks have been insufficiently and inappropriately created in the process of the urban space expansion and population density increase, necessitating their equitable distribution and access. This study aimed to analyze the distribution characteristics of a total of 354 urban parks in Seoul, South Korea, utilizing the estimates of floating population derived from big data and the urban park catchment areas, in the context of the 15-minute city. Its 25 districts were classified into the following four types based on the relationship between the area and the population ratios for the 600 m and 900 m catchment areas: Type 1 parks were equitably distributed with well-matched supply and demand; Type 2 parks had an uneven distribution due to insufficient supply and excessive demand; Type 3 parks were inadequately distributed with both supply and demand below average; and Type 4 parks had a mismatch between sufficient supply and unfulfilled demand. This study suggested strategies to improve the spatial equity of urban parks for each type, including qualitative improvement, quantitative increase, redistribution, and accessibility optimization tactics.
Spatial Effects of Railway Network Construction on Urban Sprawl and Its Mechanisms: Evidence from Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration, China
Authors: Yi Yuan , He Fang , Si Yuxuan
Published: December 2023

Urban sprawl has become a notable feature in China. Previous studies have found that railway development has a significant effect on urban sprawl. However, the detailed mechanisms of how railways affect urban sprawl have not been studied in depth. Furthermore, China’s railway system has already formed a network. The network status of cities within the railway network may affect urban sprawl, but few studies have examined this factor. In this context, to explore the effects of railway networks on urban sprawl and the mechanisms of these effects, this study applied the social network analysis (SNA) method to measure the indicators of railway network characteristics and conducted panel model regression with the above indicators using the data from 26 cities from 2011 to 2019 in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) in China. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) Railway network construction has a significantly positive impact on urban sprawl through the network agglomeration and diffusion mechanisms. (2) The network agglomeration mechanism improves the location condition of the central cities on the railway network, which encourages urban sprawl as an agglomeration pattern. (3) The network diffusion mechanism enhances the integration of the peripheral cities with the central city on the railway network, which encourages urban sprawl as a diffusion pattern. The network diffusion mechanism is heterogeneous in metropolitan areas (MAs) for the different levels of central city agglomeration. The findings provide a reference for railway construction and urban planning.
Analysis Options for Urban Green Spaces Based on Unified Urban Masks: Selected Results for European Cities
Authors: Schumacher Ulrich
Published: December 2023

At a time of rising urbanisation and climate change, urban green spaces (UGSs) are an essential element to help adapt to extreme weather events. Especially in urban core areas, heat and drought are regarded as human stress factors. The delineation of such areas constitutes an important reference geometry in topographic geodata (urban mask). This article deals with possibilities for investigating UGSs in European cities—based on unified urban masks—by applying city-wide metrics to Copernicus data (Urban Atlas including the Street Tree Layer). Both public and tree-covered urban green spaces are examined in detail. Selected results are presented for 30 European cities that display a wide range of urban structures. The spatial reference to uniformly delineated urban masks places the analytical focus of city-wide metrics onto corresponding core areas. In general, the values of UGS metrics vary considerably between cities, indicating the strong influence of city-specific factors on urban structures in Europe. For the comparative analysis of tree-covered urban areas, the Urban Green Raster Germany and a municipal tree register are used to provide additional data sources. The regular updating of the Copernicus dataset means that green spaces in European cities can be monitored, also using urban masks.
Historical Floods and Territorial Planning: Lessons Learned and Opportunities Lost after the Santa Teresa Flood (1879) in the Segura Basin (Spain)
Authors: Oliva Antonio , Olcina Jorge
Published: December 2023

Historical cartography is one of the principal tools used in correct flood adaptation and management based on territorial planning. In fact, Directive 2007/60/EC on the assessment and management of flood risks includes the analysis and inventory of historical floods in a river basin for assessing the flood hazard and risk existing in a geographical space. This study seeks to analyse the largest flood registered in the Segura basin, occurring on 14–15 October 1879, which attracted enormous interest on a national and international level. The methodology applied is based on the consultation of historical sources and historical cartography, and the elaboration of maps using GIS, enabling comparisons to be made with current flood zones. The results show that the Santa Teresa flood was very similar to the Spanish National Cartographic Systems for Flood Areas (SNCZI) map for a 500-year return period. Furthermore, it allows the identification of the sensitive points along the course of the river or those prone to burst banks or overflowing, which practically coincide with the current maps and modelling conducted by the official bodies. Furthermore, the buildings in the floodable area in the historical cartography have been counted and reconstructed on a GIS map and the SNCZI. Massive anthropic occupation through the construction of settlements and infrastructures (hospitals, schools, centers for the elderly, roads and railways) in the Guadalentín valley and the Segura River increases the risk of flooding in the study area, despite the numerous control and regulation works carried out in the Segura River basin.
Sarcopenia and Mortality in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Yakti Fatima Al Zahra , Abusalah Lana , Ganji Vijay
Published: December 2023

COVID-19 can manifest as either asymptomatic or progressing to a severe phase in some patients, which may require hospitalization. These patients may experience dyspnea and hypoxia, leading to the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Studies have reported an increased risk of severe sarcopenia in COVID-19 patients during and after recovery. This narrative review aimed to summarize and synthesize available studies on the association between sarcopenia and mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients. A total of 22 studies conducted on hospitalized COVID-19 patients were included in this review. Of those, 17 studies reported a direct association, while 5 studies showed no association between sarcopenia and mortality in severe COVID-19 patients. It is important to maintain muscle quality and quantity in defense against COVID-19. The measurement of lean muscle mass should be included in the risk assessment of severely ill COVID-19 patients as part of the therapy plan.
Comparison of Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)-Derived Parameters in Healthy Volunteers and Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Cleymaet Robbert , D’Hondt Marvin , Scheinok Thomas , Malbrain Luca , De Laet Inneke , Schoonheydt Karen , Dits Hilde , Van Regenmortel Niels , Mekeirele Michael , Cordemans Colin , Minini Andrea , Severgnini Paolo , Dabrowski Wojciech , Wong Adrian , Malbrain Manu L. N. G.
Published: December 2023

Objective: To compare bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-derived parameters in healthy volunteers and critically ill patients and to assess its prognostic value in an ICU patient cohort. Design: Retrospective, observational data analysis. Setting: Single centre, tertiary-level ICU (Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen, ZNA Stuivenberg Hospital). Patients: 101 patients and 101 healthy subjects, participants of International Fluid Academy Days. Measurements and main results: Compared to healthy volunteers, both male and female ICU patients had significantly higher values for total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), extracellular fluid (ECF), plasma, and interstitial fluid volumes. The phase angle was significantly lower and the malnutrition index was significantly higher in ICU patients, regardless of gender. Non-survivors in the ICU had significantly higher extracellular water content (ECW, 50.7 ± 5.1 vs. 48.9 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047) and accordingly significantly lower intracellular water (ICW, 49.2 ± 5.1 vs. 51.1 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047). The malnutrition index was also significantly higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.87 ± 0.16, p = 0.048), as was the capillary leak index (ECW/ICW). Conclusions: Compared to healthy volunteers, this study observed a higher malnutrition index and TBW in ICU patients with an accumulation of fluids in the extracellular compartment. ICU non-survivors showed similar results, indicating that ICU patients and a fortiori non-survivors are generally overhydrated, with increased TBW and ECW, and more undernourished, as indicated by a higher malnutrition index.
Effects of Four Organic Carbon Sources on the Growth and Astaxanthin Accumulation of Haematococcus lacustris
Authors: Byeon Huijeong , An Yunji , Kim Taesoo , Rayamajhi Vijay , Lee Jihyun , Shin HyunWoung , Jung SangMok
Published: December 2023

The microalga Haematococcus lacustris has a complex life cycle and a slow growth rate, hampering its mass cultivation. Culture of microalgae with organic carbon sources can increase the growth rate. Few studies have evaluated the effects of organic carbon sources on H. lacustris. We compared the vegetative and inductive stages of H. lacustris under autotrophic and mixotrophic conditions using four organic carbon sources: sodium acetate, glycerol, sodium gluconate, and ribose, each at various concentrations (0.325, 0.65, 1.3, and 2.6 g/L). The cell density was increased by 1.3 g/L of glycerol in the vegetative stage. The rapid transition to the inductive stage under nitrogen-depletion conditions caused by 1.3 or 2.6 g/L sodium acetate promoted the accumulation of astaxanthin. The production of astaxanthin by H. lacustris in mass culture using organic carbon sources could increase profitability.