bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burkina Faso through Its Traditional Architecture: A Century of Research on Built Vernacular Heritage
Authors: Lidón de Miguel María , Joffroy Thierry , Mileto Camilla , Vegas Fernando
Published: August 2022

The study of traditional habitats aims to recognise their values and preserve them within the necessary transformations of societies. In the context of Burkina Faso, the great variety of issues related to habitat together with the cultural richness of the country, resulted in a complex nucleus of knowledge, the unity of which had not been fully considered. With the objective of providing an integrated overview and identifying thematic trends of current relevance, the literature review involved the collection, comparison, and synthesis of works of different origin, scale, discipline, theme, and intention. As well as offering an orderly compilation, the analysis traces the history of the existing literature, revealing how its evolution mirrored the progress in vernacular architecture studies in international terms and adopted an increasingly practical approach. Furthermore, the review demonstrates the widespread academic and institutional interest in linking the development of the country to its cultural heritage, and the valuable documentation work resulting from this interest. Finally, a reflection is raised on the evolution of knowledge, its aspirations, potential impact, and usefulness, which could be of use also in other contexts.
Recent Trends in Urban Agriculture to Improve Bioactive Content of Plant Foods
Authors: Ju Jin-Hee , Yoon Yong-Han , Shin So-Hui , Ju Se-Young , Yeum Kyung-Jin
Published: August 2022

Urban agriculture is an important part of the food and nutrition security of many cities and is growing in importance, especially with social disruptions such as climate change and pandemics. Plant foods, in particular, provide bioactive compounds and other essential nutrients. Therefore, it is important to provide timely and useful research resources to horticultural sector and food-related industries that want to produce high-quality plant foods at low cost to meet the market demands of urban agriculture. This study focuses on up-to-date information on urban agriculture, the mechanisms of production of bioactive compounds in plant foods, and the main factors influencing the levels of bioactive compounds in plant foods. As a strategy to improve the bioactive compounds of plant foods in urban agriculture, the recent trends in urban agriculture were investigated according to four categories: ground-based uncontrolled or controlled agriculture and building-integrated uncontrolled or controlled agriculture. In ground-based urban agriculture, the application of short-term abiotic or biotic stresses, such as agronomic management practices, can significantly affect the bioactive compound levels in fruits and vegetables. On the other hand, in building-integrated urban agriculture, horticultural scientists have been interested in artificial lighting, cultivation medium, and water use efficiency to improve the level and composition of functional components of plants. The future trend of urban agriculture is expected to change from ground-based to building integration considering the sustainability of agriculture. Therefore, ongoing research on the growth and bioactive content improvement of plant foods using building-integrated agriculture is an important aspect for urban agriculture.
Analysis of Relative Expression of Key Enzyme Genes and Enzyme Activity in Nitrogen Metabolic Pathway of Two Genotypes of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under Different Nitrogen Supply Levels
Authors: Han Zhijun , Lu Yue , Zhao Yanfei , Wang Yaping , Han Zhongcai , Han Yuzhu , Zhang Jingying
Published: August 2022

Nitrogen (N) plays an important role in the growth cycle of the potato, and is an important guarantee of yield and quality. Rational N application is one of the key ways to improve a crop’s high and stable yield and economic and environmental benefits. The N nutrition level of potato regulates the gene expression of enzymes related to the N metabolism pathway, which shows the change of the activity of key enzymes in N metabolism, and finally realizes the regulation of N absorption and utilization. In this study, the key enzyme genes and enzyme activity of different genotypes of potato under different N supply treatments were identified, which laid a foundation for further exploration of the functions of each gene in the potato N metabolism pathway and provided theoretical basis for rational N application. The results showed that the relative expression levels of StNRT1.5, StNR, StNiR in leaves, StNRT2.5, StNRT2.4, StGS1-2 in roots and StNRT2.7, StGS1-3, StGS2, StGS1-4, StFd-GOGAT in leaves and roots showed that the levels of N-inefficient potato Atlantic (A) were higher than the N-efficient potato Yanshu 4 (Y), while the relative expression levels of StNRT2.5, StGS1-2 in leaves, StNRT1.5StNR, StNiR in roots and StGDH, StNADH-GOGAT in leaves and roots showed that levels in Yanshu 4 (Y) were higher than in Atlantic (A). At the same time, we especially found that the GDH activity in the leaves of the two genotypes of potato were higher at low N levels. Additionally, the activity of NR and NiR, and the activity of GS and GOGAT were correlated. In addition, the changes of key enzymes in different N metabolism showed a certain continuity with the advancement of growth and development, and some gene expression rules and enzyme activity changes also showed a certain consistency.
Effect of Whey Protein Edible Coating Incorporated with Mango Peel Extract on Postharvest Quality, Bioactive Compounds and Shelf Life of Broccoli
Authors: Elsayed Nesren , Hassan Ashwak Abdel-moneim , Abdelaziz Suzy M. , Abdeldaym Emad A. , Darwish Omaima S.
Published: August 2022

The present study evaluated the impact of edible coatings based on whey protein concentrate (WPC) and mango peel extract (MPE) on the shelf life, physicochemical, and microbial properties of minimally processed broccoli preserved at 5 ± 1 °C for 28 days. The variations in the physicochemical and microbial properties of the broccoli fresh-cuts were evaluated by determining the following parameter changes: weight loss, color, respiration rate, ascorbic acid content (AsA), sulforaphane content (SF), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AOA), total bacteria, fungi counts, and sensory evaluation. Broccoli fresh-cuts were treated with WPC alone or in combination with MPE (WPC/MPE) at 1% or 3%, and uncoated broccoli fresh-cuts were a control. The obtained results revealed that all the coated broccoli fresh-cuts showed lower weight loss than the uncoated broccoli fresh-cuts. The coating with WPC/MPE at 3% recorded the lowest weight loss among all treatments; however, it wasn’t significantly lower compared to WPC/MPE at 1%. The addition of MPE to WPC in coating solution at 1% and 3% resulted in a higher value of the (-a*), indicating better green color retention and decreased floret yellowing. All applied coatings significantly conserved the bioactive compounds (AsA, SF, and TPC) and AOA of broccoli fresh-cuts compared to uncoated ones. At the end of the storage period, the maximum values of the aforementioned bioactive compounds were recorded in the broccoli fresh-cuts coated with WPC/MPE at 3% followed by WPC/MPE at 1%, and WPC alone compared to uncoated broccoli fresh-cuts. The broccoli fresh-cuts coated with WPC/MPE at 3% recorded a higher score on sensory evaluation than those coated with WPC/MPE at 1%, followed by broccoli fresh-cuts coated with WPC alone. The WPC-based edible coating combined with MPE (WPC/MPE) at 3% showed the highest reduction in the total fungi and bacterial counts compared to all the other treatments.
Supplemental LED Lighting Improves Fruit Growth and Yield of Tomato Grown under the Sub-Optimal Lighting Condition of a Building Integrated Rooftop Greenhouse (i-RTG)
Authors: Appolloni Elisa , Paucek Ivan , Pennisi Giuseppina , Stringari Gaia , Gabarrell Durany Xavier , Orsini Francesco , Gianquinto Giorgio
Published: August 2022

The metabolism of a building can be connected to a rooftop greenhouse, exchanging energy, water and CO2 flows, therefore reducing emissions and recycling cultivation inputs. However, integrating a rooftop greenhouse onto a building requires the application of stringent safety codes (e.g., fire, seismic codes), to strengthen and secure the structure with safety elements such as thick steel pillars or fireproof covering materials. These elements can shade the vegetation or reduce solar radiation entering the rooftop greenhouse. Nevertheless, application of additional LED light can help to overcome this constraint. The present study evaluated supplemental LED light application in an integrated rooftop greenhouse (i-RTG) at the ICTA-UAB research institute, located in Barcelona (Spain), for tomato cultivation (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Siranzo). The experiment explored the effects of three LED lighting treatments and a control cultivated under natural light only (CK). Applied treatments, added to natural sunlight, were: red and blue (RB), red and blue + far-red (FR) for the whole day, and red and blue + far-red at the end-of-day (EOD), each for 16 h d−1 (8 a.m.–12 a.m.) with an intensity of 170 µmol m−2 s−1. The results indicate that LED light increased the overall yield by 17% compared with CK plants. In particular, CK tomatoes were 9.3% lighter and 7.2% fewer as compared with tomatoes grown under LED treatments. Fruit ripening was also affected, with an increase of 35% red proximal fruit in LED-treated plants. In conclusion, LED light seems to positively affect the development and growth of tomatoes in building integrated agriculture in the Mediterranean area.
Inheritance of Apple (Malus × domestica (L.) Borkh) Resistance against Apple Scab (Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) Wint.) in Hybrid Breeding Material Obtained by Gene Pyramiding
Authors: Zelmene Kristīne , Kārkliņa Katrīna , Ikase Laila , Lācis Gunārs
Published: August 2022

Apple scab caused by the pathogenic fungus Venturia inaequalis causes significant damage to apples. The creation of apple-scab resistant varieties is considered an alternative to pesticide-based management. To evaluate R gene inheritance, 862 apple hybrid samples were analyzed and divided into populations depending on the resistance genes (Rvi6 and Rvi5) present in the parents’ genotypes and their combinations. The field evaluation was carried out in 2016–2018 using the international VINQUEST scab evaluation methodology, but the genes were identified using specific scab resistance-gene molecular markers. Parent plants were genotyped using 22 SSR markers. The study determined that the field resistance of apple scab is influenced not only by the resistance genes present in the genotype but also by the genetic background of the apple cultivar, the tree’s general health status and resistance to other diseases. It was found that the apple scab resistance genes Rvi6 (Vf) and Rvi5 (Vm) are inherited according to Mendelian laws, and when both genes are pyramided in offspring, they are inherited as separate genes. In general, the inheritance of both genes in the offspring is not a determining factor for apple field resistance, as field resistance to scab is influenced by a combination of several factors.
Precooling and Cold Storage Methods for Fruits and Vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa—A Review
Authors: Makule Edna , Dimoso Noel , Tassou Savvas A.
Published: August 2022

Fruits and vegetables, known for their large nutrient potential, are more susceptible to high postharvest loss than other crops. Factors such as perishability, poor post-production handling and storage and processing infrastructures, increase the magnitude of food losses. The postharvest loss of fruits and vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa ranges from 30% to 50%. One key strategy to overcome such losses is through cold chain integration in value chains. However, most developing countries currently lack the basic infrastructure and management skills needed to support the development of integrated cold chains, particularly in rural areas, where up to 60% of overall food losses occur on the farm and in ‘first-mile’ distribution. Storage of highly perishable produce in a controlled environment with respect to temperature and relative humidity leads to quality and quantity preservation. This contributes to increases in food and nutrition security, household incomes and environmental protection. This review addresses the need for adopting and strengthening measures for the precooling and cold storage of fruits and vegetables to improve their value chains. A range of precooling and cold storage methods, their suitability, energy demands and the constraints on storage and distribution are discussed and recommendations are made on how to improve their accessibility for small-scale farmers in rural communities.
Barrelier’s Speedwell (Veronica barrelieri Schott ex Roem. et Schult., Plantaginaceae)—Potential of Free Volatile Compounds for Horticulture
Authors: Kremer Dario , Stabentheiner Edith , Nazlić Marija , Randić Marko , Srečec Siniša , Dunkić Valerija
Published: August 2022

Barrelier’s Speedwell or Veronica barrelieri Schott ex Roem. et Schult. (syn. Pseudolysimachion barrelieri (Schott ex Roem. et Schult.) Holub (family Plantaginaceae) grows on dry grasslands and rocky slopes in southeastern Europe. Because of its attractive blue flowers arranged in dense inflorescences up to 30 cm long, this plant has great potential for horticulture, especially in dry climates. As part of studies on biologically active compounds in this species, free VCs (Volatile Compounds) were analyzed by GC-MS (Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry) and micromorphological features were studied by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Free VCs from aboveground plant parts collected during flowering were characterized by a considerably high content of oxygenated diterpene phytol, followed by hexadecanoic acids, pentacosane, and caryophyllene oxide. These compounds are most abundant in the composition of VCs isolates of V. barrelieri from all five Croatian localities studied. Non-glandular and two subtypes of capitate glandular trichomes were detected on the stems, leaves and calyx of V. barrelieri. Veronica barrelieri attracts pollinators with its attractive flower appearance and specialized metabolites such as free VCs, which are environmentally friendly and possible natural botanical pesticides.
Phytostimulation and Synergistic Antipathogenic Effect of Tagetes erecta Extract in Presence of Rhizobacteria
Authors: Perisoara Alina , Marinas Ioana Cristina , Geana Elisabeta Irina , Constantin Mariana , Angheloiu Marian , Pirvu Lucia , Cristea Stelica
Published: August 2022

In anticipation of the food crisis, developing innovative products and technologies to increase crop yield and quality is a necessity. In this context, the aim of this study was to develop a phytostimulant based on Tagetes erecta extract and rhizobacteria to increase the antifungal activity against phytopathogenic fungi. The hydroalcoholic extract from T. erecta flowers was characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometric assays (total phenolic content, total flavonoids content, reducing sugar content), qualitatively by ATR-FTIR and quantitatively for individual compounds by UHPLC-HESI analysis. The antioxidant activity was evaluated and the phytostimulation capacity was done on the radish and cucumber. The variants of the concentration that stimulated the rhizobacteria (Bacillus sp.) proliferation were selected by evaluating the influence on the microbial viability in a liquid medium. The antifungal activity against fungal pathogens (Monilinia laxa, Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus niger) was determined by reducing mycelium growth in solid and liquid media. The synergistic effect between optimal levels of rhizobacteria-containing T. erecta extract showed a significant decrease in mycelium development. Thus, PGPR strains treated with T. erecta extract could be applied as biocontrol agents against plant pathogens and stimulate vegetable seedlings.
Cd0.9Co0.1S Nanorods with an Internal Electric Field and Photothermal Effect Synergistically for Boosting Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Zhang Lilei , Hong Manzhou , Zhang Ka , Li Botan , Fang Haipeng , Feng Xun , Xiao Xiuchan
Published: August 2022

The paper reports a strategy to synthesize Cd0.9Co0.1S nanorods (NRs) via a one-pot solvothermal method. Remarkably, the pencil-shaped Cd0.9Co0.1S NRs with a large aspect ratio and good polycrystalline plane structure significantly shorten the photogenerated carrier transfer path and achieve fast separation. An appropriate amount of Co addition enhances visible light-harvesting and generates a photothermal effect to improve the surface reaction kinetics and increases the charge transfer rate. Moreover, the internal electric field facilitates the separation and transfer of carriers and effectively impedes their recombination. As a result, the optimized Cd0.9Co0.1S NRs yield a remarkable H2 evolution rate of 8.009 mmol·g−1·h−1, which is approximately 7.2 times higher than that of pristine CdS. This work improves the photocatalytic hydrogen production rate by tuning and optimizing electronic structures through element addition and using the photothermal synergistic effect.
Development of the ATLAS Liquid Argon Calorimeter Readout Electronics and Machine Learning for the HL-LHC
Authors: Gonski Julia ,   on behalf of the ATLAS Liquid Argon Calorimeter Group
Published: August 2022

The High Luminosity era of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) starting in 2029 promises exciting discovery potential, giving unprecedented sensitivity to key new physics models and precise characterization of the Higgs boson. In order to maintain current performance in this challenging environment, the ATLAS liquid argon electromagnetic calorimeter will get entirely new electronics that reads out the entire detector with full precision at the LHC frequency of 40 MHz, and provides high granularity trigger information, while withstanding high operational radiation doses. New results will be presented from both front-end and off-detector component development, along with highlights from machine learning applications. The future steps and outlook of the project will be discussed, with an eye towards installation in the ATLAS cavern beginning in 2026.
Upgrade of the CMS Barrel Electromagnetic Calorimeter for the High Luminosity LHC
Authors: Cooke Charlotte
Published: August 2022

The high luminosity upgrade of the LHC (HL-LHC) at CERN will provide unprecedented instantaneous and integrated luminosities of up to 7.5×1034 cm−2s−1 and 4500 fb−1, respectively, from 2029 onwards. To cope with the extreme conditions of up to 200 collisions per bunch crossing, and increased data rates, the on- and off-detector electronics of the CMS electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL) will be replaced. A dual gain trans-impedance amplifier and an ASIC providing two 160 MHz ADC channels, gain selection, and data compression will be used. The lead tungstate crystals and avalanche photodiodes (APDs) in the current ECAL will keep performing well and will therefore be maintained. The noise increase in the APDs, due to radiation-induced dark currents, will be minimised by reducing the ECAL operating temperature from 18 °C to around 9 °C. Prototype HL-LHC electronics have been tested and have shown promising results. In two test beam periods using the CERN SPS H4 beamline and an electron beam, the new electronics achieved the target energy resolution and a timing resolution consistent that is consistent with our requirements of 30 ps timing for energies greater than 50 GeV.
The Association between Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Karuga Filip Franciszek , Kaczmarski Piotr , Szmyd Bartosz , Białasiewicz Piotr , Sochal Marcin , Gabryelska Agata
Published: August 2022

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has greatly increased in recent years. Recent data suggest that severe and moderate forms of OSA affect between 6 and 17% of adults in the general population. Many papers are reporting the significantly increased prevalence of OSA in patients suffering from fibrotic diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the dependency between IPF and OSA. Due to the lack of papers focusing on IPF among OSA patients, we focused on the prevalence of OSA among IPF patients. In the search strategy, a total of 684 abstracts were identified, 496 after the removal of duplicates. After the screening of titles and abstracts, 31 studies were qualified for further full-text analysis for eligibility criteria. The final analysis was performed on 614 IPF patients from 18 studies, which met inclusion criteria. There were 469 (76.38%) IPF patients with OSA and 145 (23.62%) without. The mean age varied from 60.9 ± 8.1 up to 70.3 ± 7.9. The obtained prevalence was 76.4 (95% CI: 72.9–79.7) and 75.7 (95% CI: 70.1–80.9) for fixed and random effects, respectively. The median prevalence of OSA among non-IPF patients for all the ethnics groups included in this study was 16,4% (IQR: 3.4%–26.8%). The study provides strong evidence for the increased prevalence of OSA in IPF patients when comparing with the general OSA prevalence.
Impact of Group vs. Individual Prenatal Care Provision on Women’s Knowledge of Pregnancy-Related Topics: An Open, Controlled, Semi-Randomized Community Trial
Authors: Ratzon Ronit , Cohen Arnon , Hadar Amnon , Froimovici Miron , Bilenko Natalya
Published: August 2022

The importance of acquiring knowledge of pregnant women on prenatal care lies in its leading to confidence and ability in decision-making. There is a growing need for a model of prenatal care that will allow nurses to provide the most efficient pregnancy-related guidance with minimum need for additional staff. This study compares the level of knowledge on subjects pertaining to pregnancy and birth in low-risk pregnancies when delivered in group versus individual settings. The study is an open, controlled, semi-randomized community trial. The intervention arm received prenatal care services in a group setting led by a nurse. The control arm received prenatal care services in routine individual meetings with a nurse. Knowledge of prenatal subjects was evaluated by questionnaires. The level of knowledge of the women in the group setting for the pre-service questionnaire was lower than that of the women in the individual group, but higher for the final questionnaire. After accounting for a starting point difference (the women in the individual care arm started with a higher knowledge score), the women in the group setting had a three-fold improvement in score compared to the women in the individual setting (p = 0.043). Prenatal care provided in a group setting may lead to better knowledge acquisition, leading to better awareness of pregnancy-related medical conditions and to enhanced adherence to recommended pregnancy tests and healthy lifestyle.
COVID-19, Anosmia, and Allergies: Is There a Relationship? A Pediatric Perspective
Authors: Brindisi Giulia , Spalice Alberto , Anania Caterina , Bonci Flaminia , Gori Alessandra , Capponi Martina , Cinicola Bianca , De Castro Giovanna , Martinelli Ivana , Pulvirenti Federica , Matera Luigi , Mancino Enrica , Guido Cristiana , Zicari Anna
Published: August 2022

Background: Between June and July 2020, we evaluated children and adolescents concerning post-infection surveillance after a COVID-19 positivity during the lockdown. We aimed to assess whether the anamnestic presence of allergies could correlate with the presence of SARS-CoV-2 symptoms, and in particular with anosmia. Material and methods: For each patient, we collected anamnestic data, the presence of allergies documented by performing skin prick tests, and COVID-19 symptoms. Then, if over six years of age, each patient underwent an active anterior rhinomanometry. Results: A total of 296 patients were enrolled, of whom 105 (35.4%) reported allergies. Considering COVID-19 symptoms, 74 subjects (25%) presented an asymptomatic form, 222 (75%) reported symptoms, and anosmia recurred in 60 subjects (27.03%). A statistically significant relationship was found between allergies and symptomatic COVID-19 (p = 0.042), allergies, and anosmia (p = 0.05), and allergies and anosmia in males (p = 0.007). Moreover, anosmic patients presented a higher body mass index, older age, and a longer COVID-19 duration with statistical significance (p = 0.001, 0.001, 0.006, respectively). Conclusions: Allergic subjects seem to develop symptomatic COVID-19 more frequently and allergies appear to be a protective factor from anosmia’s onset in males.
A Real-Life Action toward the End of HIV Pandemic: Surveillance of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission in a Center from Southeast Romania
Authors: Arbune Manuela , Calin Alina Mihaela , Iancu Alina Viorica , Dumitru Caterina Nela , Arbune Anca Adriana
Published: August 2022

Preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission is a strategy to eliminate new infections to move toward a world free of HIV/AIDS. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the perinatal infection prevention program in a single center from southeast Romania. Newborns of HIV-positive mothers from 2005 to 2020 were followed-up until the age of two in a retrospective study. The transmission rate from HIV-positive mothers to living children was zero, but neonatal mortality, preterm birth and birth defects were still high. The peculiarity of our study is the high proportion of mothers with a nosocomial pattern of HIV transmission. Intensifying the efforts for accurate implementing the interventions for the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission, a long time follow-up for HIV-exposed uninfected children and new research on related HIV pregnancies are necessary to reach the objective of a new generation free of HIV.
Plasma Lipidomics Approach in Early and Specific Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Peña-Bautista Carmen , Álvarez-Sánchez Lourdes , Roca Marta , García-Vallés Lorena , Baquero Miguel , Cháfer-Pericás Consuelo
Published: August 2022

Background: The brain is rich in lipid content, so a physiopathological pathway in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) could be related to lipid metabolism impairment. The study of lipid profiles in plasma samples could help in the identification of early AD changes and new potential biomarkers. Methods: An untargeted lipidomic analysis was carried out in plasma samples from preclinical AD (n = 11), mild cognitive impairment-AD (MCI-AD) (n = 31), and healthy (n = 20) participants. Variables were identified by means of two complementary methods, and lipid families’ profiles were studied. Then, a targeted analysis was carried out for some identified lipids. Results: Statistically significant differences were obtained for the diglycerol (DG), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), monoglyceride (MG), and sphingomyelin (SM) families as well as for monounsaturated (MUFAs) lipids, among the participant groups. In addition, statistically significant differences in the levels of lipid families (ceramides (Cer), LPE, LPC, MG, and SM) were observed between the preclinical AD and healthy groups, while statistically significant differences in the levels of DG, MG, and PE were observed between the MCI-AD and healthy groups. In addition, 18:1 LPE showed statistically significant differences in the targeted analysis between early AD (preclinical and MCI) and healthy participants. Conclusion: The different plasma lipid profiles could be useful in the early and minimally invasive detection of AD. Among the lipid families, relevant results were obtained from DGs, LPEs, LPCs, MGs, and SMs. Specifically, MGs could be potentially useful in AD detection; while LPEs, LPCs, and SM seem to be more related to the preclinical stage, while DGs are more related to the MCI stage. Specifically, 18:1 LPE showed a potential utility as an AD biomarker.
Practical Considerations for the Use of Cannabis in Cancer Pain Management—What a Medical Oncologist Should Know
Authors: Gorzo Alecsandra , Havași Andrei , Spînu Ștefan , Oprea Adela , Burz Claudia , Sur Daniel
Published: August 2022

Pain is a highly debilitating emotional and sensory experience that significantly affects quality of life (QoL). Numerous chronic conditions, including cancer, are associated with chronic pain. In the setting of malignancy, pain can be a consequence of the tumor itself or of life-saving interventions, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Despite significant pharmacological advances and awareness campaigns, pain remains undertreated in one-third of patients. To date, opioids have been the mainstay of cancer pain management. The problematic side effects and unsatisfactory pain relief of opioids have revived patients’ and physicians’ interest in finding new solutions, including cannabis and cannabinoids. The medical use of cannabis has been prohibited for decades, and it remains in Schedule 1 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations. Currently, the legal context for its usage has become more permissive. Various preclinical and observational studies have aimed to prove that cannabinoids could be effective in cancer pain management. However, their clinical utility must be further supported by high-quality clinical trials.
Schizophrenia: A Narrative Review of Etiopathogenetic, Diagnostic and Treatment Aspects
Authors: Orsolini Laura , Pompili Simone , Volpe Umberto
Published: August 2022

Although schizophrenia is currently conceptualized as being characterized as a syndrome that includes a collection of signs and symptoms, there is strong evidence of heterogeneous and complex underpinned etiological, etiopathogenetic, and psychopathological mechanisms, which are still under investigation. Therefore, the present viewpoint review is aimed at providing some insights into the recently investigated schizophrenia research fields in order to discuss the potential future research directions in schizophrenia research. The traditional schizophrenia construct and diagnosis were progressively revised and revisited, based on the recently emerging neurobiological, genetic, and epidemiological research. Moreover, innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are pointed to build a new construct, allowing the development of better clinical and treatment outcomes and characterization for schizophrenic individuals, considering a more patient-centered, personalized, and tailored-based dimensional approach. Further translational studies are needed in order to integrate neurobiological, genetic, and environmental studies into clinical practice and to help clinicians and researchers to understand how to redesign a new schizophrenia construct.
Switching to Glycerol Phenylbutyrate in 48 Patients with Urea Cycle Disorders: Clinical Experience in Spain
Authors: Martín-Hernández Elena , Quijada-Fraile Pilar , Correcher Patricia , Meavilla Silvia , Sánchez-Pintos Paula , de las Heras Montero Javier , Blasco-Alonso Javier , Dougherty Lucy , Marquez Ana , Peña-Quintana Luis , Cañedo Elvira , García-Jimenez María Concepción , Moreno Lozano Pedro Juan , Murray Hurtado Mercedes , Camprodon Gómez María , Barrio-Carreras Delia , de los Santos Mariela , del Toro Mireia , Couce María L. , Vitoria Miñana Isidro , Morales Conejo Montserrat , Bellusci Marcello
Published: August 2022

Background and objectives: Glycerol phenylbutyrate (GPB) has demonstrated safety and efficacy in patients with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) by means of its clinical trial program, but there are limited data in clinical practice. In order to analyze the efficacy and safety of GPB in clinical practice, here we present a national Spanish experience after direct switching from another nitrogen scavenger to GPB. Methods: This observational, retrospective, multicenter study was performed in 48 UCD patients (age 11.7 ± 8.2 years) switching to GPB in 13 centers from nine Spanish regions. Clinical, biochemical, and nutritional data were collected at three different times: prior to GPB introduction, at first follow-up assessment, and after one year of GPB treatment. Number of related adverse effects and hyperammonemic crisis 12 months before and after GPB introduction were recorded. Results: GPB was administered at a 247.8 ± 102.1 mg/kg/day dose, compared to 262.6 ± 126.1 mg/kg/day of previous scavenger (46/48 Na-phenylbutyrate). At first follow-up (79 ± 59 days), a statistically significant reduction in ammonia (from 40.2 ± 17.3 to 32.6 ± 13.9 μmol/L, p < 0.001) and glutamine levels (from 791.4 ± 289.8 to 648.6 ± 247.41 μmol/L, p < 0.001) was observed. After one year of GPB treatment (411 ± 92 days), we observed an improved metabolic control (maintenance of ammonia and glutamine reduction, with improved branched chain amino acids profile), and a reduction in hyperammonemic crisis rate (from 0.3 ± 0.7 to less than 0.1 ± 0.3 crisis/patients/year, p = 0.02) and related adverse effects (RAE, from 0.5 to less than 0.1 RAEs/patients/year p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates the safety of direct switching from other nitrogen scavengers to GPB in clinical practice, which improves efficacy, metabolic control, and RAE compared to previous treatments.
The Effects of Scanning Speed and Standoff Distance of the Fiber on Dusting Efficiency during Short Pulse Holmium: YAG Laser Lithotripsy
Authors: Chen Junqin , Li Daiwei , Yu Wenjun , Ma Zhiteng , Li Chenhang , Xiang Gaoming , Wu Yuan , Yao Junjie , Zhong Pei
Published: August 2022

To investigate the effects of fiber lateral scanning speed across the stone surface (vfiber) and fiber standoff distance (SD) on dusting efficiency during short pulse holmium (Ho): YAG laser lithotripsy (LL), pre-soaked BegoStone samples were treated in water using 0.2 J/20 Hz at SD of 0.10~0.50 mm with vfiber in the range of 0~10 mm/s. Bubble dynamics, pressure transients, and stone damage were analyzed. To differentiate photothermal ablation vs. cavitation damage, experiments were repeated in air, or in water with the fiber tip at 0.25 mm proximity from the ureteroscope end to mitigate cavitation damage. At SD = 0.10 mm, the maximum dusting efficiency was produced at vfiber = 3.5 mm/s, resulting in long (17.5 mm), shallow (0.15 mm), and narrow (0.4 mm) troughs. In contrast, at SD = 0.50 mm, the maximum efficiency was produced at vfiber = 0.5 mm/s, with much shorter (2.5 mm), yet deeper (0.35 mm) and wider (1.4 mm), troughs. With the ureteroscope end near the fiber tip, stone damage was significantly reduced in water compared to those produced without the ureteroscope. Under clinically relevant vfiber (1~3 mm/s), dusting at SD = 0.5 mm that promotes cavitation damage may leverage the higher frequency of the laser (e.g., 40 to 120 Hz) and, thus, significantly reduces the procedure time, compared to at SD = 0.1 mm that promotes photothermal ablation. Dusting efficiency during short pulse Ho: YAG LL may be substantially improved by utilizing an optimal combination of vfiber, SD, and frequency.
A Systematic Review on the Role of Repeat Transurethral Resection after Initial en Bloc Resection for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Hu Henglong , Zhou Mengqi , Yang Binrui , Zhou Shiwei , Liu Zheng , Zhang Jiaqiao
Published: August 2022

International guidelines recommend repeat transurethral resection of bladder tumors (reTURB) for selected patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer to remove possible residual tumors, restage tumors and improve the therapeutic outcome. However, most evidence supporting the benefits of reTURB is from conventional TURB. The role of reTURB in patients receiving initial En bloc resection of bladder tumor (ERBT) is still unknown. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were systematically searched. Finally, this systematic review and meta-analysis included twelve articles, including 539 patients. The rates of residual tumor and tumor upstaging detected by reTURB after ERBT were 5.9% (95%CI, 2.0%–11.1%) and 0.0% (95%CI, 0.0%–0.5%), respectively. Recurrence-free survival, tumor recurrence and progression were comparable between patients with and without reTURB after initial ERBT. The pooled hazard ratios of 1-year, 2-year, 3-year and 5-year recurrence-free survival were 0.74 (95%CI, 0.36–1.51; p = 0.40), 0.76 (95%CI, 0.45–1.26; p = 0.28), 0.83 (95%CI, 0.53–1.32; p = 0.43) and 0.83 (95%CI, 0.56–1.23; p = 0.36), respectively. The pooled relative risks of recurrence and progression were 0.87 (95%CI, 0.64–1.20; p = 0.40) and 1.11 (95%CI, 0.54–2.32; p = 0.77), respectively. Current evidence demonstrates that reTURB after ERBT for bladder cancer can detect relatively low rates of residual tumor and tumor upstaging and appears not to improve either recurrence or progression.
Associations between Serum Saturated Fatty Acids Content and Mortality in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Sikorska-Wisniewska Malgorzata , Mika Adriana , Sledzinski Tomasz , Chmielewski Michal
Published: August 2022

Background: Cardiovascular mortality in dialysis population remains very high. Saturated fatty acids (SFA) contribute to atherosclerosis and to cardiovascular risk. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between mortality in dialysis patients and the serum SFA content. Methods: Survival of 54 patients on dialysis was assessed. A total of 21 SFA from patients’ sera were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Diet was assessed by food frequency questionnaire FFQ-6. The SFA content is presented as fatty acid proportion (%). Results: During the observation time (median 66 months) 22 patients died. There was a significant relationship between elevated SFA (above SFA mean) and mortality (log-rank 3.13; p = 0.0017). Moreover, patients who ingested foods rich in SFA, according to FFQ-6, had a higher mortality risk (log-rank 2.24; p = 0.03). The hazard ratio for mortality associated with increased SFA content equalled 4.47 (1.63–12.26). Addition of age and inflammation (hsCRP > 5 mg/L) into the Cox model did not modify this relationship. However, SFA content turned out to be significantly higher in patients with diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, as compared to patients free from these co-morbidities. Their addition to the model attenuated the relationship between SFA and mortality, making it statistically insignificant. Conclusion: The serum content of SFA turned out to be a strong predictor of mortality in dialysis patients. However, given the significant associations between SFA, DM, and CVD, interventional studies with controlled SFA intake are needed to evaluate the causal links between SFA, co-morbidities and survival.
Body Weight Counts—Cardioversion with Vernakalant or Ibutilide at the Emergency Department
Authors: Lindmayr Teresa , Schnaubelt Sebastian , Sulzgruber Patrick , Simon Alexander , Niederdoeckl Jan , Cacioppo Filippo , Schuetz Nikola , Domanovits Hans , Spiel Alexander Oskar
Published: August 2022

Aim: Medication for the pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter (AFL) is applied either in a fixed dose or adapted to body weight. Individual body weight might be a relevant confounder for anti-arrhythmic treatment success. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the impact of body weight on pharmacological cardioversion success, comparing weight adapted (Vernakalant) and fixed dose (Ibutilide) pharmacotherapeutic cardioversion regimes. Methods: Within this prospective observational trial, a total of 316 episodes of AF and AFL were enrolled. Patients were stratified in either a Vernakalant (n = 181) or Ibutilide (n = 135) treatment arm, based on the chosen regime, for direct comparison of treatment efficacy. Results: Conversion to sinus rhythm was achieved in 76.3% of all cases. Of note, there was no difference comparing the Vernakalant and Ibutilide treatment arms (Vernakalant 76.2% vs. Ibutilide 76.3%; p = 0.991). Within the whole study population, decreasing conversion rates with increasing body weight (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.69 (0.51–0.94); p = 0.018) were observed. An independent effect of body weight within the Ibutilide treatment arm was noted, which remained stable after adjustment for potential confounders (adjusted OR = 0.55 (0.38–0.92), p = 0.022. Conclusion: Both, the Vernakalant and Ibutilide treatment arms showed comparable rates of treatment success in pharmacotherapeutic cardioversion of AF and AFL. Of utmost importance, we observed that the fixed dose of Ibutilide—as compared to the weight-adapted dose of Vernakalant—showed a reduced treatment success with increasing body weight.
Primary Staging of Prostate Cancer Patients with [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT Compared with [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT
Authors: Hoffmann Manuela A. , Müller-Hübenthal Jonas , Rosar Florian , Fischer Nicolas , von Eyben Finn Edler , Buchholz Hans-Georg , Wieler Helmut J. , Schreckenberger Mathias
Published: August 2022

Background: Hybrid imaging with prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is gaining importance as an increasingly meaningful tool for prostate cancer (PC) diagnostics and as a guide for therapy decisions. This study aims to investigate and compare the performance of [18F]PSMA-1007 (18F-PSMA) and [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (68Ga-PSMA) in the initial staging of PC patients. Methods: The data of 88 biopsy-proven patients were retrospectively evaluated. PSMA-avid lesions were compared with the histopathologic Gleason Score (GS) for prostate biopsies, and the results were plotted by receiver operating characteristic (ROC)-curve. Optimal maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) cut-off values were rated using the Youden index. Results: 18F-PSMA was able to distinguish GS ≤ 7a from ≥7b with a sensitivity of 62%, specificity of 85%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 92%, and accuracy of 67% for a SUVmax of 8.95, whereas sensitivity was 54%, specificity 91%, PPV 93%, and accuracy 66% for 68Ga-PSMA (SUVmax 8.7). Conclusions: Both methods demonstrated a high concordance of detected PSMA-avid lesions with histopathologically proven PC. 18F-PSMA and 68Ga-PSMA are both suitable for the characterization of primary PC with a comparable correlation of PSMA-avid lesions with GS. Neither method showed a superior advantage. Our calculated SUVmax thresholds may represent valuable parameters in clinical use to distinguish clinically significant PC (csPC) from non-csPC.
Feedback Regulation of Signaling Pathways for Precise Pre-Placodal Ectoderm Formation in Vertebrate Embryos
Authors: Michiue Tatsuo , Tsukano Kohei
Published: August 2022

Intracellular signaling pathways are essential to establish embryonic patterning, including embryonic axis formation. Ectodermal patterning is also governed by a series of morphogens. Four ectodermal regions are thought to be controlled by morphogen gradients, but some perturbations are expected to occur during dynamic morphogenetic movement. Therefore, a mechanism to define areas precisely and reproducibly in embryos, including feedback regulation of signaling pathways, is necessary. In this review, we outline ectoderm pattern formation and signaling pathways involved in the establishment of the pre-placodal ectoderm (PPE). We also provide an example of feedback regulation of signaling pathways for robust formation of the PPE, showing the importance of this regulation.
Shapley-Additive-Explanations-Based Factor Analysis for Dengue Severity Prediction using Machine Learning
Authors: Chowdhury Shihab Uddin , Sayeed Sanjana , Rashid Iktisad , Alam Md. Golam Rabiul , Masum Abdul Kadar Muhammad , Dewan M. Ali Akber
Published: August 2022

Dengue is a viral disease that primarily affects tropical and subtropical regions and is especially prevalent in South-East Asia. This mosquito-borne disease sometimes triggers nationwide epidemics, which results in a large number of fatalities. The development of Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is where most cases occur, and a large portion of them are detected among children under the age of ten, with severe conditions often progressing to a critical state known as Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). In this study, we analysed two separate datasets from two different countries– Vietnam and Bangladesh, which we referred as VDengu and BDengue, respectively. For the VDengu dataset, as it was structured, supervised learning models were effective for predictive analysis, among which, the decision tree classifier XGBoost in particular produced the best outcome. Furthermore, Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) was used over the XGBoost model to assess the significance of individual attributes of the dataset. Among the significant attributes, we applied the SHAP dependence plot to identify the range for each attribute against the number of DHF or DSS cases. In parallel, the dataset from Bangladesh was unstructured; therefore, we applied an unsupervised learning technique, i.e., hierarchical clustering, to find clusters of vital blood components of the patients according to their complete blood count reports. The clusters were further analysed to find the attributes in the dataset that led to DSS or DHF.
Application of Fractal Image Analysis by Scale-Space Filtering in Experimental Mechanics
Authors: Bauer Anna , Volk Wolfram , Hartmann Christoph
Published: August 2022

Increasingly complex numerical analyses require more and more precise, accurate and varied input parameters in order to achieve results that are as realistic and reliable as possible. Therefore, experimental analyses for material parameter identification are of high importance and a driving force for further developments. In this work, opportunities by applying fractal analysis to optical measurement data of a shear cutting process are investigated. The fractal analysis is based on a modification of the concept of scale-space filtering. Scale exponent fields are calculated for the image sequences of the shear cutting process that are taken by a mobile microscope. A least-square approximation is used for the automated evaluation of the local scale exponent values. In order to determine the change of the scale exponent of individual material points, a digital image correlation is applied.
Modeling Techniques for Underwater Acoustic Scattering and Propagation (Including 3D Effects)
Authors: Petrov Pavel , Katsnelson Boris , Li Zhenglin
Published: August 2022

Almost three years have passed since the publication of the first Special Issue on three-dimensional underwater acoustics in 2019 [...]
Dynamic Performance and Crashworthiness Assessment of Honeycomb Reinforced Tubular Pipe in the Jacket Platform under Ship Collision
Authors: Lin Hong , Han Chang , Yang Lei , Karampour Hassan , Luan Haochen , Han Pingping , Xu Hao , Zhang Shuo
Published: August 2022

The collision between the pipe legs of jacket platforms and bypassing ships is of great concern for the safety assessment of platforms. Honeycomb structures have been widely used owing to their unique deformation and mechanical properties under dynamic impact loads. In this paper, two typical honeycomb structures, namely hexagonal honeycomb and arrow honeycomb, were constructed for the impact protection of inclined pipe legs in jacket platforms, and the present study aimed to assess the dynamical performance and crushing resistance of the designed honeycomb reinforced structure under ship collision by using the numerical simulation software ANSYS/LS-DYNA. The dynamical performance of the honeycomb reinforced pipe leg was investigated considering various influential parameters, including the impact velocity and impact direction. The crashworthiness of the two types of honeycomb was evaluated and compared by different criteria, namely the maximum impact depth (δmax), specific energy absorption (SEA) and the proposed index offset sliding (OS). The results demonstrated that both the hexagonal honeycomb structure and the arrow honeycomb structure can reduce the damage of inclined pipe legs caused by ship collision, while the hexagonal honeycomb can provide the better anti-collision capacity, which can well reduce the offset sliding and better protect the pipe leg from ship collision.