bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Image-Guided Robotic Radiosurgery for the Treatment of Lung Metastases of Renal Cell Carcinoma—A Retrospective, Single Center Analysis
Authors: Rodler Severin , Götz Melanie , Mumm Jan-Niclas , Buchner Alexander , Graser Annabel , Casuscelli Jozefina , Stief Christian , Fürweger Christoph , Muacevic Alexander , Staehler Michael
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary metastases are the most frequent site of metastases in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Metastases directed treatment remains an important treatment option despite advances in systemic therapies. However, the safety and efficacy of robotic radiosurgery (RRS) for the treatment of lung metastases of RCC remains unclear. Patients with metastatic RCC and lung metastases treated by RRS were retrospectively analyzed for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), local recurrence free survival (LRFS) and adverse events. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis and the common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE; Version 5.0) classification for assessment of adverse events. A total of 50 patients were included in this study. Median age was 64 (range 45–92) years at the time of RRS. Prior to RRS, 20 patients (40.0%) had received either tyrosine kinase inhibitors or immunotherapy and 27 patients (54.0%) were treatment naïve. In our patient cohort, the median PFS was 13 months (range: 2–93). LRFS was 96.7% after two years with only one patient revealing progressive disease of the treated metastases 13 months after RRS. Median OS was 35 months (range 2–94). Adverse events were documented in six patients (12%) and were limited to grade 2. Fatigue (n = 4) and pneumonitis (n = 2) were observed within 3 months after RRS. In conclusion, RRS is safe and effective for patients with metastatic RCC and pulmonary metastases. Radiation induced pneumonitis is specific in the treatment of pulmonary lesions, but not clinically relevant and survival rates seem favorable in this highly selected patient cohort. Future directions are the implementation of RRS in multimodal treatment approaches for oligometastatic or oligoprogressive disease.
Climate Change Impacts on Groundwater Recharge in Cold and Humid Climates: Controlling Processes and Thresholds
Authors: Dubois Emmanuel , Larocque Marie , Gagné Sylvain , Braun Marco
Published: January 2022

Long-term changes in precipitation and temperature indirectly impact aquifers through groundwater recharge (GWR). Although estimates of future GWR are needed for water resource management, they are uncertain in cold and humid climates due to the wide range in possible future climatic conditions. This work aims to (1) simulate the impacts of climate change on regional GWR for a cold and humid climate and (2) identify precipitation and temperature changes leading to significant long-term changes in GWR. Spatially distributed GWR is simulated in a case study for the southern Province of Quebec (Canada, 36,000 km2) using a water budget model. Climate scenarios from global climate models indicate warming temperatures and wetter conditions (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5; 1951–2100). The results show that annual precipitation increases of >+150 mm/yr or winter precipitation increases of >+25 mm will lead to significantly higher GWR. GWR is expected to decrease if the precipitation changes are lower than these thresholds. Significant GWR changes are produced only when the temperature change exceeds +2 °C. Temperature changes of >+4.5 °C limit the GWR increase to +30 mm/yr. This work provides useful insights into the regional assessment of future GWR in cold and humid climates, thus helping in planning decisions as climate change unfolds. The results are expected to be comparable to those in other regions with similar climates in post-glacial geological environments and future climate change conditions.
Low Selectivity Indices of Ivermectin and Macrocyclic Lactones on SARS-CoV-2 Replication In Vitro
Authors: Chable-Bessia Christine , Boullé Charlotte , Neyret Aymeric , Swain Jitendriya , Hénaut Mathilde , Merida Peggy , Gros Nathalie , Makinson Alain , Lyonnais Sébastien , Chesnais Cédric , Muriaux Delphine
Published: January 2022

Ivermectin was first approved for human use as an endectocide in the 1980s. It remains one of the most important global health medicines in history and has recently been shown to exert in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2. However, the macrocyclic lactone family of compounds has not previously been evaluated for activity against SARS-CoV-2. The present study aims at comparing their anti-viral activity in relevant human pulmonary cell lines in vitro. Here, in vitro antiviral activity of the avermectins (ivermectin and selamectin) and milbemycins (moxidectin and milbemycin oxime) were assessed against a clinical isolate from a CHU Montpellier patient infected with SARS-CoV-2 in 2020. Ivermectin, like the other macrocyclic lactones moxidectin, milbemycin oxime and selamectin, reduced SARS-CoV-2 replication in vitro (EC50 of 2–5 μM). Immunofluorescence assays with ivermectin and moxidectin showed a reduction in the number of infected and polynuclear cells, suggesting a drug action on viral cell fusion. However, cellular toxicity of the avermectins and milbemycins during infection showed a very low selectivity index of <10. Thus, none of these agents appears suitable for human use for its anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity per se, due to low selectivity index.
Limb Salvage through Intermediary Wound Coverage with Acellular Dermal Matrix Template after Persistent Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Infection in a Burn Patient
Authors: Gładysz Mateusz , März Vincent , Ruemke Stefan , Rubalskii Evgenii , Vogt Peter Maria , Krezdorn Nicco
Published: January 2022

Secondary infections of skin grafts pose a continuous problem in burn patients, very often leading to loss of transplanted skin grafts and making multiple surgical revisions necessary. We present a case report about persisting Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in burn patients with known diabetes. The burn wounds in lower extremities required repeated debridements, multiple skin grafting attempts and finally an application of the dermal scaffold NovoSorb BTM. With these measures, we managed to undertake a successful reconstruction of infected burn defects and pre-vent an amputation. We concluded that the NovoSorb BTM could be seen as an additional promising tool in a burn surgery armamentarium. In cases where radical surgical wound decontamination is not possible without risking the loss of the limb, the application of NovoSorb BTM over a contaminated field can win extra time for topical infection treatment and additionally provide an excellent skin grafting ground.
Power Theory of Exchange and Money
Authors: Stefanov Yaroslav
Published: January 2022

Modern exchange theories model a large market, but do not explain single exchanges. This paper considers the phenomenon of single exchange and formulates the general exchange problem in the form of a system of two equations, subjective and objective. Subjective equilibrium is given by the Walras–Jevons marginal utility equation. Objective equilibrium equations by Walras and Jevons are averaged over all transactions in the market and can only give a rough general picture without explaining the specific price of an individual exchange. An exchange micro-condition must be found that, when averaged, will give the Walras market equilibrium macro-condition. The study of the internal structure of exchange leads to the need to consider power. The concept of generalized power is introduced. It is generalized power that serves as the primary comparable and measurable objective basis of exchange. The power theory of exchange provides the objective price-equation. It is demonstrated that money is a measure of generalized power in exchange and a certification of generalized power in subsequent exchanges. This methodology is based on an interdisciplinary analysis of an abstract exchange model in the form of a system of equations. The proposed theory is able to uniformly explain any exchange, including a single one, which is impossible with the existing theories of exchange.
Coal Thickness Prediction Method Based on VMD and LSTM
Authors: Huang Yaping , Yan Lei , Cheng Yan , Qi Xuemei , Li Zhixiong
Published: January 2022

The change in coal seam thickness has an important influence on coal mine safety and efficient mining. It is very important to predict coal thickness accurately. However, the accuracy of borehole interpolation and BP neural network is not high. Variational mode decomposition (VMD) has strong denoising ability, and the long short-term memory neural network (LSTM) is especially suitable for the prediction of complex sequences. This paper presents a method of coal thickness prediction using VMD and LSTM. Firstly, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and VMD methods are used to denoise simple signals, and the denoising effect of the VMD method is verified. Then, the wedge-shaped coal thickness model is constructed, and the seismic forward modeling and analysis are carried out. The results show that the coal thickness prediction based on seismic attributes is feasible. On the basis of VMD denoising of the original 3D seismic data, VMD-LSTM is used to predict coal thickness and compared with the prediction results of the traditional BP neural network. The coal thickness prediction method proposed in this paper has high accuracy and basically coincides with the coal seam information exposed by existing boreholes. The minimum absolute error of the predicted coal thickness is only 0.08 m, and the maximum absolute error is 0.48 m. This indicates that VMD-LSTM has high accuracy in predicting coal thickness. The proposed coal thickness prediction method can be used as a new method for coal thickness prediction.
A Systematic Simulation-Based Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for the Evaluation of Semi–Fully Flexible Machine System Process Parameters
Authors: Samala Thirupathi , Manupati Vijaya Kumar , Machado Jose , Khandelwal Shubham , Antosz Katarzyna
Published: January 2022

Current manufacturing system health management is of prime importance due to the emergence of recent cost-effective and -efficient prognostics and diagnostics capabilities. This paper investigates the most used performance measures viz. Throughput Rate, Throughput Time, System Use, Availability, Average Stay Time, and Maximum Stay Time as alternatives that are responsible for the diagnostics of manufacturing systems during real-time disruptions. We have considered four different configurations as criteria on which to test with the proposed integrated MCDM (Multi-Criteria Decision-Making)-TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution)-based simulation approach. The main objective of this proposed model is to improve the performance of semi–fully flexible systems and to maximize the production rate by ranking the parameters from most influenced to least. In this study, first, the performance of the considered process parameters are analyzed using a simulation approach, and furthermore the obtained results are validated using real-time experimental results. Thereafter, using an Entropy method, the weights of each parameter are identified and then the MCDM-based TOPSIS is applied to rank the parameters. The results show that Throughput tTme is the most affected parameter and that Availability, average stay time, and max stay time are least affected in the case of no breakdown of machine condition. Similarly, Throughput Time is the most affected parameter and Maximum Stay Time is the least affected parameter in the case of the breakdown of machine condition. Finally, the rankings from the TOPSIS method are compared with the PROMETHEE method rankings. The results demonstrate the ability to understand system behavior in both normal and uncertain conditions.
Exploiting Features with Split-and-Share Module
Authors: Lee Jae-Min , Seo Min-Seok , Kim Dae-Han , Lee Sang-Woo , Park Jong-Chan , Choi Dong-Geol
Published: January 2022

Deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have shown state-of-the-art performances in various computer vision tasks. Advances on CNN architectures have focused mainly on designing convolutional blocks of the feature extractors, but less on the classifiers that exploit extracted features. In this work, we propose Split-and-Share Module (SSM), a classifier that splits a given feature into parts, which are partially shared by multiple sub-classifiers. Our intuition is that the more the features are shared, the more common they will become, and SSM can encourage such structural characteristics in the split features. SSM can be easily integrated into any architecture without bells and whistles. We have extensively validated the efficacy of SSM on ImageNet-1K classification task, and SSM has shown consistent and significant improvements over baseline architectures. In addition, we analyze the effect of SSM using the Grad-CAM visualization.
Tensor-Based Recursive Least-Squares Adaptive Algorithms with Low-Complexity and High Robustness Features
Authors: Fîciu Ionuț-Dorinel , Stanciu Cristian-Lucian , Elisei-Iliescu Camelia , Anghel Cristian
Published: January 2022

The recently proposed tensor-based recursive least-squares dichotomous coordinate descent algorithm, namely RLS-DCD-T, was designed for the identification of multilinear forms. In this context, a high-dimensional system identification problem can be efficiently addressed (gaining in terms of both performance and complexity), based on tensor decomposition and modeling. In this paper, following the framework of the RLS-DCD-T, we propose a regularized version of this algorithm, where the regularization terms are incorporated within the cost functions. Furthermore, the optimal regularization parameters are derived, aiming to attenuate the effects of the system noise. Simulation results support the performance features of the proposed algorithm, especially in terms of its robustness in noisy environments.
Dairy Farm Management Information Systems
Authors: Kassahun Ayalew , Bloo Robbin , Catal Cagatay , Mishra Alok
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, different types of farm management information systems (FMIS) are being used in practice in several sectors of farming, such as dairy, arable, fruits, vegetables, and meat farming. The goal of this research is to identify, evaluate, and synthesize existing FMISs in the Dutch dairy sector and present the state–of–the–art. We performed a multivocal literature review (MLR) to find sources both in scientific and grey literature. A grey literature search was adopted because most of the FMISs were not reported in the scientific literature. To support and improve the effectiveness of the MLR process, an online survey was first sent to Dutch dairy farmers to identify the FMISs that are being used in practice. With the help of the MLR process, we identified 50 FMISs used by Dutch dairy farmers. We identified 33 features of these FMISs and listed the advantages and disadvantages of the FMISs.
Advancements in Probabilistic Safety Assessment of Nuclear Energy for Sustainability
Authors: Heo Gyunyoung
Published: January 2022

Since the publication of the first comprehensive Probabilistic Safety Assessment (PSA) study—known as WASH-1400—in the US, PSA has developed into an effective and systematic method of identifying hazards, and evaluating and prioritizing the risks in nuclear facilities [...]
Adaptation of Fire-Fighting Systems to Localization of Fires in the Premises: Review
Authors: Kuznetsov Geniy , Kopylov Nikolay , Sushkina Elena , Zhdanova Alena
Published: January 2022

Fire protection is a basic safety issue for all categories of buildings. The criteria for effective fire suppression and the characteristics of extinguishing systems in insulated areas depend on a combination of factors. The main influences include the type of combustible material, ambient temperature, type of spray extinguisher, air inflow and outflow conditions, and space geometry. This article analyzes the most widely used fire-extinguishing technologies in different locations. The main aspects of using the pulsed delivery technology of extinguishing liquid are considered. Based on the analysis of publications from the last decade, it is possible to develop intelligent systems for recording fires and extinguishing fires in the premises.
Performance Analysis of Integrated Photovoltaic-Thermal and Air Source Heat Pump System through Energy Simulation
Authors: Bae Sangmu , Chae Soowon , Nam Yujin
Published: January 2022

The concept of zero energy buildings (ZEBs) has recently been actively introduced in the building sector, globally, to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. For the implementation of ZEBs, renewable energy systems, such as solar collectors, photovoltaic (PV) systems, and ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems, have been used. The system performance of solar collectors and PV systems are dependent on the weather conditions. A GSHP system requires a large area for boring machines and mud pump machines. Therefore, inhabitants of an existing small-scale buildings hesitate to introduce GSHP systems due to the difficulties in installation and limited construction area. This study proposes an integrate photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) and air source heat pump (ASHP) system for realizing ZEB in an existing small-scale building. In order to evaluate the applicability of the integrated PVT-ASHP system, a dynamic simulation model that combines the PVT-ASHP system model and the building load model based on actual building conditions was constructed. The heating and cooling performances of the system for one year were analyzed using the dynamic simulation model. As the simulation analysis results, the average coefficient of performance (COP) for heating season was 5.3, and the average COP for cooling season was 16.3., respectively. From April to June, the electrical produced by the PVT module was higher than the power consumption of the system and could realize ZEB.
Effects of Moxonidine Administration on Serum Neuropeptide Y Levels in Hypertensive Individuals: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Karlafti Eleni , Didangelos Triantafyllos , Benioudakis Emmanouil , Kotzakioulafi Evangelia , Kaiafa Georgia , Kotsis Vasileios , Ziakas Antonios , Doumas Michail , Goulas Antonios , Savopoulos Christos
Published: January 2022

Moxonidine is a centrally acting, anti-hypertensive medication that exerts additional metabolic properties. It is unknown whether its effects are mediated by neurotransmitters or sympathetic tone regulators, including Neuropeptide Y (NPY). In this study, we evaluated the effects of moxonidine administration on serum NPY in humans. Methods: Ninety individuals with mild or moderate arterial hypertension that required monotherapy were categorized in three age and gender-matched groups according to their Body Mass Index (BMI) as normal weight (n = 30), overweight (n = 30), and obese (n = 30). Moxonidine was administered in therapeutic doses of up to 0.6 mg daily for 12 weeks, and clinical, biochemical and hormonal parameters were recorded. Results: In all three groups, a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate was shown. After treatment, BMI, 24 h urine catecholamines and catecholamines’ metabolites, and serum total cholesterol were also reduced. Most importantly, we found a decrease in serum NPY levels in all study groups, with the largest mean decrease in the group of obese and overweight participants compared to normal weight. Conclusions: Moxonidine administration results in improvement in cardio-metabolic parameters, as well as a decrease in serum NPY levels, which therefore represents it being a potent agent against obesity-associated hypertension. Its involvement in energy balance regulation warrants further investigation.
Antifungal Activity of Lactobacillus plantarum ZZUA493 and Its Application to Extend the Shelf Life of Chinese Steamed Buns
Authors: Zhao Shanshan , Hao Xiangmei , Yang Fengyuan , Wang Yuan , Fan Xiaomiao , Wang Yanping
Published: January 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can produce many kinds of antifungal substances, which have been widely proven to have antifungal activity. In this study, 359 strains of LAB were screened for antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger (A. niger) using the 96-well microtiter plate method, and three showed strong activity. Of these, ZZUA493 showed a broad-spectrum antifungal ability against A. niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Trichoderma longibrachiatum, Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium graminearum. ZZUA493 was identified as Lactobacillus plantarum. Protease treatment, the removal of hydrogen peroxide with catalase and heat treatment had no effect on the antifungal activity of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of ZZUA493; organic acids produced by ZZUA493 appeared to have an important role in fungal growth inhibition. The contents of lactic acid, acetic acid and phenyllactic acid in the CFS tended to be stable at 48 h, and amounted to 28.5, 15.5 and 0.075 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, adding ZZUA493, as an ingredient during their preparation, prolonged the shelf life of Chinese steamed buns. Overall, ZZUA493 appears to have good potential as a fungal inhibitor for food preservation.
Elementary Fractal Geometry. 2. Carpets Involving Irrational Rotations
Authors: Bandt Christoph , Mekhontsev Dmitry
Published: January 2022

Self-similar sets with the open set condition, the linear objects of fractal geometry, have been considered mainly for crystallographic data. Here we introduce new symmetry classes in the plane, based on rotation by irrational angles. Examples without characteristic directions, with strong connectedness and small complexity, were found in a computer-assisted search. They are surprising since the rotations are given by rational matrices, and the proof of the open set condition usually requires integer data. We develop a classification of self-similar sets by symmetry class and algebraic numbers. Examples are given for various quadratic number fields.
Influence of MgO on the Hydration and Shrinkage Behavior of Low Heat Portland Cement-Based Materials via Pore Structural and Fractal Analysis
Authors: Wang Lei , Lu Xiao , Liu Lisheng , Xiao Jie , Zhang Ge , Guo Fanxing , Li Li
Published: January 2022

Currently, low heat Portland (LHP) cement is widely used in mass concrete structures. The magnesia expansion agent (MgO) can be adopted to reduce the shrinkage of conventional Portland cement-based materials, but very few studies can be found that investigate the influence of MgO on the properties of LHP cement-based materials. In this study, the influences of two types of MgO on the hydration, as well as the shrinkage behavior of LHP cement-based materials, were studied via pore structural and fractal analysis. The results indicate: (1) The addition of reactive MgO (with a reactivity of 50 s and shortened as M50 thereafter) not only extends the induction stage of LHP cement by about 1–2 h, but also slightly increases the hydration heat. In contrast, the addition of weak reactive MgO (with a reactivity of 300 s and shortened as M300 thereafter) could not prolong the induction stage of LHP cement. (2) The addition of 4 wt.%–8 wt.% MgO (by weight of binder) lowers the mechanical property of LHP concrete. Higher dosages of MgO and stronger reactivity lead to a larger reduction in mechanical properties at all of the hydration times studied. M300 favors the strength improvement of LHP concrete at later ages. (3) M50 effectively compensates the shrinkage of LHP concrete at a much earlier time than M300, whereas M300 compensates the long-term shrinkage more effectively than M50. Thus, M300 with an optimal dosage of 8 wt.% is suggested to be applied in mass LHP concrete structures. (4) The addition of M50 obviously refines the pore structures of LHP concrete at 7 days, whereas M300 starts to refine the pore structure at around 60 days. At 360 days, the concretes containing M300 exhibits much finer pore structures than those containing M50. (5) Fractal dimension is closely correlated with the pore structure of LHP concrete. Both pore structure and fractal dimension exhibit weak (or no) correlations with shrinkage of LHP concrete.
Data-Driven Construction Safety Information Sharing System Based on Linked Data, Ontologies, and Knowledge Graph Technologies
Authors: Pedro Akeem , Pham-Hang Anh-Tuan , Nguyen Phong Thanh , Pham Hai Chien
Published: January 2022

Accident, injury, and fatality rates remain disproportionately high in the construction industry. Information from past mishaps provides an opportunity to acquire insights, gather lessons learned, and systematically improve safety outcomes. Advances in data science and industry 4.0 present new unprecedented opportunities for the industry to leverage, share, and reuse safety information more efficiently. However, potential benefits of information sharing are missed due to accident data being inconsistently formatted, non-machine-readable, and inaccessible. Hence, learning opportunities and insights cannot be captured and disseminated to proactively prevent accidents. To address these issues, a novel information sharing system is proposed utilizing linked data, ontologies, and knowledge graph technologies. An ontological approach is developed to semantically model safety information and formalize knowledge pertaining to accident cases. A multi-algorithmic approach is developed for automatically processing and converting accident case data to a resource description framework (RDF), and the SPARQL protocol is deployed to enable query functionalities. Trials and test scenarios utilizing a dataset of 200 real accident cases confirm the effectiveness and efficiency of the system in improving information access, retrieval, and reusability. The proposed development facilitates a new “open” information sharing paradigm with major implications for industry 4.0 and data-driven applications in construction safety management.
Why the World Should Not Follow the Failed United States Model of Fighting Domestic Hunger
Authors: Berg Joel , Gibson Angelica
Published: January 2022

Many industrialized nations have followed the lead of the United States (US) in reducing workers’ wages and cutting government safety nets, while giving their populaces the false impression that non-governmental organizations can meet the food and basic survival needs of their low-income residents. The history of the last 50 years and the global COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate why that is a mistake, leading to vastly increased household food insecurity, poverty, and hunger. This paper takes a close look at US data to help to better understand the significant impact US federal government policy measures had on limiting hunger throughout the pandemic and how we can learn from these outcomes to finally end hunger in America and other developed nations. The top three policy prescriptions vital in ending household food insecurity in the US and industrialized countries are as follows: (1) to create jobs; raise wages; make high quality healthcare and prescription medicine free; and ensure that high quality childcare, education, transportation, and broad-band access are affordable to all; (2) to enact a comprehensive “Assets Empowerment Agenda” to help low-income people move from owing to owning in order to develop middle-class wealth; and (3) when the above two steps are inadequate, ensure a robust government safety net for struggling residents that provides cash, food, and housing assistance.
Research on the Matching Relationship between the Supply of Urban Ecological Recreational Space and the Demand of Residents—A Case Study of an Urban Development Area in Wuhan
Authors: Xu Xin , Hu Jing , Lv Li , Yin Jiaojiao , Tian Xiaobo
Published: January 2022

An urban ecological recreational space (UERS), which connects the natural environment with urban residents, is an important guarantee for developing a livable city and improving the well-being of residents. However, there is a serious imbalance between the supply of UERSs and the demand of residents in many big, rapidly developing cities. Previous studies usually used indicators such as scale or quantity to measure the supply level of UERS enjoyed by residents, ignoring its own quality differences. Therefore, taking the urban development area of Wuhan as the research object, we measured the quality of UERS from four dimensions using the entropy method and designed a method to measure the supply service level under the hierarchical travel threshold to analyze the supply level of UERSs based on a community unit. Finally, combined with the demand characteristics of different groups, the matching relationship between supply and demand of UERSs in each community is quantitatively analyzed. The results show the following: (1) The quality of UERS in urban development area of Wuhan varies greatly and its distribution is extremely uneven. (2) The level of supply services and the demand level vary greatly, and the overall performance has a trend of decreasing from the city center to the periphery. (3) The overall matching relationship between supply and demand of UERS is not ideal, and more than half of the communities are in supply deficit or without services. Our study provides a novel perspective on quantifying the supply–demand relationship of UERS. It can more accurately guide decision-makers and planners in determining areas with mismatches between the supply and demand of UERSs and in making targeted layouts of UERSs and relevant policies.
Metabolic Syndrome: Updates on Pathophysiology and Management in 2021
Authors: Fahed Gracia , Aoun Laurence , Bou Zerdan Morgan , Allam Sabine , Bou Zerdan Maroun , Bouferraa Youssef , Assi Hazem I.
Published: January 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) forms a cluster of metabolic dysregulations including insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, central obesity, and hypertension. The pathogenesis of MetS encompasses multiple genetic and acquired entities that fall under the umbrella of insulin resistance and chronic low-grade inflammation. If left untreated, MetS is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Given that CVDs constitute by far the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, it has become essential to investigate the role played by MetS in this context to reduce the heavy burden of the disease. As such, and while MetS relatively constitutes a novel clinical entity, the extent of research about the disease has been exponentially growing in the past few decades. However, many aspects of this clinical entity are still not completely understood, and many questions remain unanswered to date. In this review, we provide a historical background and highlight the epidemiology of MetS. We also discuss the current and latest knowledge about the histopathology and pathophysiology of the disease. Finally, we summarize the most recent updates about the management and the prevention of this clinical syndrome.
Decoding the Complex Crossroad of Tryptophan Metabolic Pathways
Authors: Mondanelli Giada , Volpi Claudia , Orabona Ciriana
Published: January 2022

Among the 20 amino acids needed for protein synthesis, Tryptophan (Trp) is an aromatic amino acid fundamental not only for the synthesis of the major components of living cells (namely, the proteins), but also for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis [...]
Fabrication of CaCO3-Coated Vesicles by Biomineralization and Their Application as Carriers of Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Miyamaru Chiho , Koide Mao , Kato Nana , Matsubara Shogo , Higuchi Masahiro
Published: January 2022

We fabricated CaCO3-coated vesicles as drug carriers that release their cargo under a weakly acidic condition. We designed and synthesized a peptide lipid containing the Val-His-Val-Glu-Val-Ser sequence as the hydrophilic part, and with two palmitoyl groups at the N-terminal as the anchor groups of the lipid bilayer membrane. Vesicles embedded with the peptide lipids were prepared. The CaCO3 coating of the vesicle surface was performed by the mineralization induced by the embedded peptide lipid. The peptide lipid produced the mineral source, CO32−, for CaCO3 mineralization through the hydrolysis of urea. We investigated the structure of the obtained CaCO3-coated vesicles using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The vesicles retained the spherical shapes, even in vacuo. Furthermore, the vesicles had inner spaces that acted as the drug cargo, as observed by the TEM tomographic analysis. The thickness of the CaCO3 shell was estimated as ca. 20 nm. CaCO3-coated vesicles containing hydrophobic or hydrophilic drugs were prepared, and the drug release properties were examined under various pH conditions. The mineralized CaCO3 shell of the vesicle surface was dissolved under a weakly acidic condition, pH 6.0, such as in the neighborhood of cancer tissues. The degradation of the CaCO3 shell induced an effective release of the drugs. Such behavior suggests potential of the CaCO3-coated vesicles as carriers for cancer therapies.
Ru@hyperbranched Polymer for Hydrogenation of Levulinic Acid to Gamma-Valerolactone: The Role of the Catalyst Support
Authors: Sorokina Svetlana A. , Mikhailov Stepan P. , Kuchkina Nina V. , Bykov Alexey V. , Vasiliev Alexander L. , Ezernitskaya Mariam G. , Golovin Andrey L. , Nikoshvili Linda Zh. , Sulman Mikhail G. , Shifrina Zinaida B.
Published: January 2022

Hydrogenation of levulinic acid (LA) obtained from cellulose biomass is a promising path for production of γ-valerolactone (GVL)—a component of biofuel. In this work, we developed Ru nanoparticle containing nanocomposites based on hyperbranched pyridylphenylene polymer, serving as multiligand and stabilizing matrix. The functionalization of the nanocomposite with sulfuric acid significantly enhances the activity of the catalyst in the selective hydrogenation of LA to GVL and allows the reaction to proceed under mild reaction conditions (100 °C, 2 MPa of H2) in water and low catalyst loading (0.016 mol.%) with a quantitative yield of GVL and selectivity up to 100%. The catalysts were successfully reused four times without a significant loss of activity. A comprehensive physicochemical characterization of the catalysts allowed us to assess structure-property relationships and to uncover an important role of the polymeric support in the efficient GVL synthesis.
Peering into the Darkness: DNA Barcoding Reveals Surprisingly High Diversity of Unknown Species of Diptera (Insecta) in Germany
Authors: Chimeno Caroline , Hausmann Axel , Schmidt Stefan , Raupach Michael J. , Doczkal Dieter , Baranov Viktor , Hübner Jeremy , Höcherl Amelie , Albrecht Rosa , Jaschhof Mathias , Haszprunar Gerhard , Hebert Paul D. N.
Published: January 2022

Determining the size of the German insect fauna requires better knowledge of several megadiverse families of Diptera and Hymenoptera that are taxonomically challenging. This study takes the first step in assessing these “dark taxa” families and provides species estimates for four challenging groups of Diptera (Cecidomyiidae, Chironomidae, Phoridae, and Sciaridae). These estimates are based on more than 48,000 DNA barcodes (COI) from Diptera collected by Malaise traps that were deployed in southern Germany. We assessed the fraction of German species belonging to 11 fly families with well-studied taxonomy in these samples. The resultant ratios were then used to estimate the species richness of the four “dark taxa” families (DT families hereafter). Our results suggest a surprisingly high proportion of undetected biodiversity in a supposedly well-investigated country: at least 1800–2200 species await discovery in Germany in these four families. As this estimate is based on collections from one region of Germany, the species count will likely increase with expanded geographic sampling.
Predicting the Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Primary Living Donor Liver Transplantation Using Metabolic Parameters Obtained from 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Kang Sungmin , Kim Joo Dong , Choi Dong Lak , Choi Byungwook
Published: January 2022

This study evaluated the prognostic value of metabolic parameters based on the standardized uptake value (SUV) normalized by total body weight (bwSUV) and by lean body mass (SUL) measured on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) for predicting tumor recurrence after primary living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) without transplantation locoregional therapy. This retrospective study enrolled 49 patients with HCC. The maximum tumor bwSUV (T-bwSUVmax) and SUL (T-SULmax) were measured on PET. The maximum bwSUV (L-bwSUVmax), mean bwSUV (L-bwSUVmean), maximum SUL (L-SULmax), and mean SUL (L-SULmean) were measured in the liver. All metabolic parameters were evaluated using survival analyses and compared to clinicopathological factors. Tumor recurrence occurred in 16/49 patients. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that all metabolic parameters were significant (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed that prothrombin-induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II; T-stage; tumor number; tumor size; microvascular invasion; the Milan criteria, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and up-to-seven criteria; T-bwSUVmax/L-bwSUVmean; T-SULmax; T-SULmax/L-SULmax; and T-SULmax/L-SULmean were significant predictors. Multivariate analysis revealed that the T-SULmax/L-SULmean (hazard ratio = 115.6; p = 0.001; cut-off, 1.81) and UCSF criteria (hazard ratio = 172.1; p = 0.010) were independent predictors of tumor recurrence. SUL-based metabolic parameters, especially T-SULmax/L-SULmean, were significant, independent predictors of HCC recurrence post-LDLT.
Special Issue “Chronic HCV Infection: Clinical Advances and Eradication Perspectives”
Authors: Liberto Maria Carla , Marascio Nadia
Published: January 2022

The latest report of global hepatitis estimated 58 million people with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic disease and 1 [...]
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Activity in the Regional Hospitals of Andalusia (Spain)
Authors: Lopez-Villegas Antonio , Bautista-Mesa Rafael Jesus , Baena-Lopez Miguel Angel , Garzon-Miralles Antonio , Castellano-Ortega Miguel Angel , Leal-Costa Cesar , Peiro Salvador
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: The large global outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has overloaded the public health systems and reduced the regular healthcare activity, leading to a major health crisis. The main objective of this study was to carry out a comparative evaluation of the healthcare activities in the hospitals of Eastern Andalusia, Spain. (2) Methods: In this study, an observational, multicentered, and retrospective approach was adopted to compare the healthcare activities of the Poniente Hospital (PH) and the Alto Guadalquivir Health Agency (AGHA). Data was collected over a period of 24 months, i.e., from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020, and the variables evaluated were: patients seen in the hospital emergency service (HES), X-ray tests performed, patients cited in outpatient consultations, surgical interventions performed, and patients included in the waiting list. (3) Results: The analysis of the above-mentioned variables revealed a significant reduction in the number of patients registered in 2020 at HES as compared to that in 2019 for both PH (p = 0.002) and AGHA (p < 0.001). Moreover, the number of surgical interventions in 2020 was significantly reduced from that in 2019 for both PH (p = 0.001) and AGHA (p = 0.009). Moreover, for PH (p < 0.001), a significant reduction was observed in the waiting list admissions in 2020 compared to that in 2019; however, no significant difference in the waiting list admissions between the years 2020 and 2019 was observed for AGHA (p = 0.446). In 2020, the number of teleconsultations was significantly increased from that in 2019 for both PH (p < 0.001) and AGHA (p = 0.006). (4) Conclusion: The analysis carried out indicates that in 2020, compared to 2019, healthcare activity was significantly reduced in most of the parameters included in this study.
Current Dependent Dispersal Characteristics of Japanese Glass Eel around Taiwan
Authors: Hsiung Kuan-Mei , Lin Yen-Ting , Han Yu-San
Published: January 2022

Japanese eel larvae are passively transported to the East Asian Continental Shelf by the North Equatorial Current, Kuroshio and Kuroshio intrusion currents, and coastal currents. Previous studies have investigated the dispersal characteristics and pathways of Japanese glass eels. However, there are still limitations in these studies. According to long-term (2010–2020) catch data from the Fisheries Agency in Taiwan, the distribution and time series of glass eels recruitment to Taiwan are closely related to the surrounding ocean currents. Recruitment begins in eastern Taiwan via the mainstream Kuroshio and in southern Taiwan via the Taiwan Strait Warm Current. In central Taiwan, recruitment occurs from southern Taiwan, as well as from mainland China via the southern branch of the China Coast Current (CCC). The latest recruitment occurred in northern Taiwan and mainly comprised glass eels from mainland China via the northern branch of the CCC. A stronger monsoon during the La Niña phase could affect the recruitment time series in northern and eastern Taiwan. This study suggests that the recruitment directionality of glass eels is an indicator of the flow field of ocean/coastal currents and elucidates the dispersal characteristics of glass eels in the waters around Taiwan.
Refined Nomogram Incorporating Standing Cough Test Improves Prediction of Adjustable Trans-Obturator Male System (ATOMS) Success to Treat Post-Prostatectomy Male Stress Incontinence
Authors: Dorado Juan F. , Angulo Javier C.
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: The adjustable transobturator male system (ATOMS) device serves to treat post-prostatectomy incontinence, as it enhances residual urinary sphincteric function by dorsal compression of the bulbar urethra. We investigated the clinical parameters affecting continence recovery using this device and developed a decision aid to predict success. (2) Methods: We reviewed consecutive men treated with first-time ATOMS for post-prostatectomy incontinence from 2014 to 2021 at our institution. Patient demographics, reported pads per day (PPD), 24-h pad-test and Standing Cough Test (SCT), results’ grades 1–4, according to Male Stress Incontinence Grading Scale (MSIGS), and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) questionnaire were assessed. Treatment success was defined as no pads or a single PPD with ≤20-mL 24-h pad-test. Logistic regression was performed using a stepwise model (entry 0.15 and stay criterium 0.1) to evaluate independent variables’ determinant of dryness. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves for predictive variables were evaluated and their area under curve (AUC) was compared. A nomogram was generated and internally validated to predict probability of treatment success. (3) Results: Overall, 149 men (median age 70 years, IQR 7) were evaluated with a median follow-up of 45 months (IQR 26). Twelve patients (8%) had previous devices for incontinence, and 21 (14.1%) had pelvic radiation. Thirty-five men (23.5%) did not achieve continence after ATOMS adjustment (use of no or one security PPD with ≤20-mL 24-h pad-test). In univariate analysis, Charlson comorbidity index (p = 0.0412), previous urethroplasty (p = 0.0187), baseline PPD (p < 0.0001), 24-h pad-test (p < 0.0001), MSIGS (p < 0.0001), and ICIQ-SF questionnaire score (p < 0.0001) predicted ATOMS failure. In a multivariable model, 24-h pad-test (p = 0.0031), MSIGS (p = 0.0244), and radiotherapy (p = 0.0216) were independent variables, with AUC 0.8221. The association of MSIGS and 24-h pad-test was the superior combination (AUC 0.8236). A nomogram to predict the probability of ATOMS failure using the independent variables identified was proposed. (4) Conclusions: Several variables were identified as predictive of success for ATOMS using clinical history, physical examination (MSIGS), and factors that evaluate urine loss severity (PPD, 24-h pad-test, and ICIQ-SF questionnaire). MSIGS adds prognostic value to 24-h pad-test in assessing success of ATOMS device to treat post-prostatectomy incontinence. A nomogram was proposed to calculate the risk of ATOMS failure, which could be of interest to personalize the decision to use this device or not in the individual patient.
Sentiment Analysis of Social Survey Data for Local City Councils
Authors: Lepelaar Marianna , Wahby Adam , Rossouw Martha , Nikitin Linda , Tibble Kanewa , Ryan Peter J. , Watson Richard B.
Published: January 2022

Big data analytics can be used by smart cities to improve their citizens’ liveability, health, and wellbeing. Social surveys and also social media can be employed to engage with their communities, and these can require sophisticated analysis techniques. This research was focused on carrying out a sentiment analysis from social surveys. Data analysis techniques using RStudio and Python were applied to several open-source datasets, which included the 2018 Social Indicators Survey dataset published by the City of Melbourne (CoM) and the Casey Next short survey 2016 dataset published by the City of Casey (CoC). The qualitative nature of the CoC dataset responses could produce rich insights using sentiment analysis, unlike the quantitative CoM dataset. RStudio analysis created word cloud visualizations and bar charts for sentiment values. These were then used to inform social media analysis via the Twitter application programming interface. The R codes were all integrated within a Shiny application to create a set of user-friendly interactive web apps that generate sentiment analysis both from the historic survey data and more immediately from the Twitter feeds. The web apps were embedded within a website that provides a customisable solution to estimate sentiment for key issues. Global sentiment was also compared between the social media approach and the 2016 survey dataset analysis and showed some correlation, although there are caveats on the use of social media for sentiment analysis. Further refinement of the methodology is required to improve the social media app and to calibrate it against analysis of recent survey data.
Response of Soil Nematode Community Structure and Function to Monocultures of Pumpkin and Melon
Authors: Zhao Dan , Wang Yao , Wen Ling , Qu Hongyun , Zhang Zuobiao , Zhang Hui , Jia Yunhe , Wang Juan , Feng Yixin , Li Yan , Yang Fan , Pan Fengjuan
Published: January 2022

It is well known that crop monoculture can induce negative effects on soil ecosystems and crop productivity. However, little is known about how vegetable monoculture affects the soil nematode community structure and its relationship with vegetable yields. In this study, the composition, abundance, metabolic footprint, and ecological indices of soil nematodes are investigated in monocultures of pumpkin and melon. The relationships between nematode community structure and yields of pumpkin and melon were analyzed by linear regression. Both monoculture soils of pumpkin and melon suppressed the relative abundance of bacterivores but increased the relative abundance of plant parasites. Pumpkin monoculture soils decreased soil nematode diversity but increased the maturity index of plant parasites. Monoculture soils of pumpkin and melon decreased the metabolic footprint of lower- and higher-level trophic groups of the soil food web, respectively. Pumpkin and melon monoculture soils increased the food web indices channel index (CI) but decreased the enrichment index (EI) and the structure index (SI). The monoculture soils of pumpkin and melon led to a more fungal-dominated decomposition pathway and degraded soil food web conditions. The abundance of bacterivores and food web indices EI and SI were positively correlated with soil nutrients and pH, while the abundance of plant parasites and CI were negatively correlated with soil nutrients and pH. Paratylenchus was negatively correlated with pumpkin and melon yields and could be the potential plant parasites threatening pumpkin and melon productions. Redundancy analysis showed that monocultures of pumpkin and melon altered the soil nematode community via soil properties; total N, total P, alkeline-N, and pH were the main driving factors.