bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Sorption Affinity of Low Specific Activity 99Mo on Different Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Nawar Mohamed F. , El-Daoushy Alaa F. , Ashry Ahmed , Soliman Mohamed A. , Türler Andreas
Published: September 2022

99Mo/99mTc generators are mainly produced from 99Mo of high specific activity generated from the fission of 235U. Such a method raises proliferation concerns. Alternative methods suggested the use of low specific activity (LSA) 99Mo to produce 99mTc generators. However, its applicability is limited due to the low adsorptive capacity of conventional adsorbent materials. This study attempts to investigate the effectiveness of some commercial metal oxides nanoparticles as adsorbents for LSA 99Mo. In a batch equilibration system, we studied the influence of solution pH (from 1–8), contact time, initial Mo concentration (from 50–500 mg∙L−1), and temperature (from 298–333 K). Moreover, equilibrium isotherms and thermodynamic parameters (changes in free energy ΔG0, enthalpy change ΔH0, and entropy ΔS0) were evaluated. The results showed that the optimum pH of adsorption ranges between 2 and 4, and that the equilibrium was attained within the first two minutes. In addition, the adsorption data fit well with the Freundlich isotherm model. The thermodynamic parameters prove that the adsorption of molybdate ions is spontaneous. Furthermore, some investigated adsorbents showed maximum adsorption capacity ranging from 40 ± 2 to 73 ± 1 mg Mo∙g−1. Therefore, this work demonstrates that the materials used exhibit rapid adsorption reactions with LSA 99Mo and higher capacity than conventional alumina (2–20 mg Mo∙g−1).
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, Molecular Docking and Biological Activity of Novel Secnidazole Metal Complexes
Authors: Abd El-Fattah Wesam , Elamin Nuha Y.
Published: September 2022

In this study, four new Secnidazole metal complexes have been synthesized through the reaction of Secnidazole drug with AuCl3, PtCl2, PdCl2, AgNO3 salts. The structures of the synthesized complexes were elucidated using elemental analysis, molar conductivity, thermal analysis, IR, 1H-NMR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The spectroscopic results confirm that Secnidazole drug act as a bidentate ligand, coordinated to the metal ion with N3 of the imidazole ring and oxygen atom of OH group. The antimicrobial data revealed that the complexes possess a better antibacterial activity against most of the selected bacteria species than the free drug. In addition, the cytotoxic data showed that Ag-complex possesses a potent anticancer activity against MCF-7 cell line. The docking data showed that the synthesized complexes displayed a good and effective binding model against breast cancer protein (3hb5) which was confirmed by the low values of binding energy and multiple H-bonds.
A New Aculodes Species (Prostigmata: Eriophyidae) Described from an Invasive Weed by Morphological, Morphometric and DNA Barcode Analyses
Authors: Vidović Biljana , Anđelković Nikola , Jojić Vida , Cvrković Tatjana , Petanović Radmila , Marini Francesca , Cristofaro Massimo , Rector Brian G.
Published: September 2022

A new species of eriophyoid mite, Aculodes marcelli sp. nov., was discovered on cheatgrass, Anisantha tectorum (L.) Nevski (syn. Bromus tectorum L.), an annual grass that is native to Eurasia and Northern Africa. This grass was introduced to North America near the end of the 19th century and now is widespread and associated with the observed increases in the size, frequency, and intensity of wildfires in western N. America. In this paper, A. marcelli sp. nov., is morphologically described and illustrated. Compared with other Aculodes spp., it differs based on morphology and the sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase gene, subunit I (MT-CO1). Results of morphometric analysis showed clear differentiation between A. marcelli sp. nov., and the most similar congener, A. altamurgiensis from Taeniatherum caput-medusae. Analysis of MT-CO1 sequence divergence revealed significant levels of genetic variation (17.7%) and supported the results from the morphometric analysis; therefore, it is determined that they are two different species. Aculodes marcelli sp. nov., is a new candidate agent for classical biological control of A. tectorum.
Noble Liquid Calorimetry for FCC-ee
Authors: Morange Nicolas
Published: September 2022

Noble liquid calorimeters have been successfully used in particle physics experiments for decades. The project presented in this article is that of a new noble liquid calorimeter concept, where a novel design allows us to fulfil the stringent requirements on calorimetry of the physics programme of the electron-positron Future Circular Collider at CERN. High granularity is achieved through the design of specific readout electrodes and high-density cryostat feedthroughs. Excellent performance can be reached through new very light cryostat design and low electronics noise. Preliminary promising performance is achieved in simulations, and ideas for further R&D opportunities are discussed.
Predictive Factors of Poor Outcome in Sanders Type III and IV Calcaneal Fractures Treated with an Open Reduction and Internal Fixation with Plate: A Medium-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Cianni Luigi , Vitiello Raffaele , Greco Tommaso , Sirgiovanni Mattia , Ragonesi Giulia , Maccauro Giulio , Perisano Carlo
Published: September 2022

Background: Consensus on the treatment for severely comminuted calcaneus fractures has yet to be found. This study aims to analyze the functional and radiological short- and medium-term outcomes of displaced calcaneus fractures of type III and IV treated with ORIF, and to identify, if present, the early predictors of unfavorable outcomes. Methods: Thirty-three calcaneal fractures were included, 23 type III and 10 type IV, according to Sanders classification. AOFAS scales for ankle and hindfoot and SF-12 were used. Böhler and Gissane angles were analyzed before and after surgery. Results: The minimum follow-up was six years. The mean AOFAS score at six months was 16.5 points (24.2 ± 10.8 vs 10.8 ± 9.5; p = 0.03) with better outcomes in patients with Sanders type III fractures. This difference decreased in the subsequent follow-up. Likewise, the mental and physical score of SF-12 had the same trend. Two wound infections and no deep infections were recorded in the Sanders type III fracture group. Instead, in the Sanders type IV group, there were four wound infections and one deep infection. Conclusions: Clinical and radiological outcomes in Sanders Type III and Type IV calcaneus fractures treated with plate and screws were very similar in long-term follow-up. If ORIF provided better short- to medium-term follow-up in Sanders type III fracture, these benefits have been lost in six years. Polytrauma and psychiatric patients showed significantly lower clinical outcomes in long-term follow-up, appearing as the most reliable negative predictors.
Hochuekkito Combined with Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Apathetic Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Hamada Hironobu , Sekikawa Kiyokazu , Okusaki Ken , Dodo Takefumi , Kagawa Kazuyoshi , Sumigawa Tatsuya , Awaya Yoshikazu , Sakimoto Naoki , Shioya Sachiko , Hakozaki Keisuke , Kadowaki Toru , Kakimoto Maki , Ito Ryoji , Kawamichi Koji , Kondo Keiichi , Namba Haruchi , Iwamoto Hiroshi , Hattori Noboru
Published: September 2022

The main treatment goals for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are the reduction of its symptoms and future risks. The addition of the traditional herbal medicine Hochuekkito (TJ-41) treatment to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has been reported to improve dyspnea and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with COPD. However, the reason for this improvement is not sufficiently understood. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the addition of TJ-41 treatment to PR improves symptoms of apathy, dyspnea, and HRQOL and increases physical activity among apathetic patients with COPD. Apathetic patients with COPD were randomly assigned to receive low-intensity exercise with (TJ-41 group) or without (control group) TJ-41 treatment for 12 weeks. A total of 29.9% of COPD patients had apathetic symptoms without severe depression. After the 12-week treatment, Apathy Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, visual analog scale for dyspnea, and COPD assessment test energy scores decreased significantly in the TJ-41 group (p < 0.05), but not in the control group. Additionally, the total number of steps taken was significantly higher in the TJ-41 group than in the control group. TJ-41 combined with PR may benefit apathetic patients with COPD with respect to apathy, dyspnea, HRQOL, and physical activity, but larger randomized placebo-controlled trials are required to validate the findings because of the small sample size and lack of placebo controls in this study.
Reticulocyte Hemoglobin-Equivalent Potentially Detects, Diagnoses and Discriminates between Stages of Iron Deficiency with High Sensitivity and Specificity
Authors: Almashjary Majed N. , Barefah Ahmed S. , Bahashwan Salem , Ashankyty Ibraheem , ElFayoumi Refaat , Alzahrani Majed , Assaqaf Duaa M. , Aljabri Raghad S. , Aljohani Amera Y. , Muslim Rema , Baawad Sara A. , Bawazir Waleed M. , Alharthy Saif A.
Published: September 2022

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a global health problem affecting the quality of life of more than 2 billion individuals. The current practice guidelines diagnose and monitor IDA via conventional hematological and iron biomarkers, which take several months before they are corrected under an iron-treatment plan. Reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (Ret-He) is used as a marker in most new hematology analyzers to assess iron incorporation into erythrocyte hemoglobin directly. This study aims to examine the efficacy of Ret-He as a marker for iron deficiency (ID) and IDA and investigate whether Ret-He is sensitive to iron therapy. Methods: Two blood samples were drawn from 182 participants for CBC and iron profile measurements. Follow-up samples were drawn from participants with a confirmed diagnosis of ID and/or IDA. Results: Ret-He levels were lower in the ID and IDA groups compared to the control (p < 0.0001), and lower in the IDA group compared to the ID group (p < 0.0001). Ret-He was correlated with ferritin at ID level (<30.0 mg/mL; r = 0.39) and severe IDA (<13.0 ng/mL; p-value < 0.01, r = 0.57). Cut-off values of <28.25 pg for ID and <21.55 pg for IDA showed a higher specificity and sensitivity (ID; AUC: 0.99, sensitivity: 92.73%, specificity: 97.87%) and (IDA; AUC: 0.94, sensitivity: 90.63%, specificity: 92.31%). Finally, Ret-He successfully reflected the iron therapy (p < 0.001) when compared to hemoglobin (Hb) (p = 0.1). Conclusions: Ret-He is a potential marker for detecting and diagnosing different stages of ID with high validity and is very sensitive in reflecting the iron incorporation in a short time.
Immunohistochemical Markers and TILs Evaluation for Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Bounous Valentina , Ferrero Annamaria , Campisi Paola , Fuso Luca , Pezua Sanjinez Jeremy , Manassero Sabrina , De Rosa Giovanni , Biglia Nicoletta
Published: September 2022

Objective: The molecular classification for endometrial cancer (EC) introduced by The Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network (TCGA) and the Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer (ProMisE) proved the existence of four molecular prognostic subtypes; however, both classifications require costly technology. We suggest a prognostic model for EC based on immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Study design: One hundred patients were included. We retrospectively investigated IHC prognostic parameters: mismatch repair (MMR)-deficient tumors, p53 mutation status, progesterone receptors (PgRs), and estrogen receptors (ERs). We further evaluated TILs. These parameters were related to the clinical and morphological features and to the outcome. Results: We classified tumors into three groups (IHC analysis): MMR-deficient, p53-mutated, p53 wild-type. MMR-deficient tumors had a good prognosis, p53 wild-type tumors an intermediate one, and p53-mutated tumors had the poorest outcomes. Disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly better among PgR+ tumors (respectively p = 0.011 and p = 0.001) and PgR expression is an independent prognostic factor for a better DFS frommultivariate analysis (OR = 0.3; CI: 0.1–0.9; p = 0.03).No significant correlation was observed between DFS and TILs. However, among MMR-deficient tumors, the mean value of TILs was higher than among the other tumors(111 versus 71, p = 0.01) Conclusions: The prognostic model based on IHC markers could potentially be a valid and applicable alternative to the TCGA one. The PgR determination could represent an additional prognostic factor for EC.
Stress Reduction by Yoga versus Mindfulness Training in Adults Suffering from Distress: A Three-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial including Qualitative Interviews (RELAX Study)
Authors: Fischer Jan Moritz , Kandil Farid-Ihab , Kessler Christian S. , Nayeri Lucas , Zager Laura Sophie , Rocabado Hennhöfer Theresa , Steckhan Nico , Koppold-Liebscher Daniela A. , Bringmann Holger C. , Schäfer Thomas , Michalsen Andreas , Jeitler Michael
Published: September 2022

Distress is a growing public health concern. In this three-armed randomized controlled trial, n = 102 adults with elevated stress levels and stress-related symptoms were randomly assigned to (1) “integrative” yoga classes which combined physical exercises, mindfulness training, and ethical/philosophical aspects of traditional yoga; to (2) Iyengar yoga classes which entailed primarily physical exercises; or to (3) mindfulness training without physical training. We hypothesized the synergistic effects of physical yoga exercises, mindfulness, and ethical/philosophical aspects. The primary outcome was the group difference on Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included burnout, quality of life, physical complaints, depression, anxiety, mindfulness, interoceptive awareness, self-regulation, spirituality, mysticism, and posttraumatic stress. All outcomes were evaluated at baseline (V0), after 12 weeks (V1), and after 24 weeks (V2). A subset of participants took part in qualitative interviews. A lasting and clinically relevant stress reduction was observed within all groups (PSS ΔV0–V1Integrative Yoga = −6.69 ± 6.19; ΔV0–V1Iyengar Yoga = −6.00 ± 7.37; ΔV0–V1Mindfulness = −9.74 ± 7.80; all p < 0.00). Effect sizes were also statistically large at the end of the follow-up period (Cohen’s d Integrative Yoga = 1.41; d Iyengar Yoga = 1.37; d Mindfulness = 1.23). There were no significant group differences or evidence of relevant synergistic effects from combining mindfulness and physical yoga exercises. All three interventions were found to be equally effective methods of stress reduction. Their use in practice should be based on availability and patient preference.
Isometric Knee Muscle Strength and Patient-Reported Measures Five Years after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Comparison of Single versus Dual Autograft Hamstring Tendon Harvesting
Authors: Manchado Ignacio , Motta Luci M. , Blanco Gustavo , González Jesús , Garcés Gerardo L.
Published: September 2022

There is some controversy regarding the use of one or two hamstring tendons for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). In this study, two cohorts of 22 male patients underwent an ACLR with hamstring tendon autografts. One cohort was reconstructed through an all-inside technique with the semitendinosus tendon (ST group) and the other with the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons (ST-G group). Anterior tibial translation (ATT), Lysholm, and IKDC scores were assessed preoperatively and five years postoperation. Additionally, isometric knee muscle strength was manually measured in both groups and in another cohort of 22 uninjured control male subjects five years after the operation. There were no significant differences in ATT and Lysholm scores between the operated groups. The IKDC score was lower in the ST-G group than in the ST group—9.57 (CI 14.89–4.25) (p < 0.001). No significant differences between injured and uninjured knees were detected in hamstring to quadriceps ratio strength and quadriceps limb symmetry index of the two operated groups, but the hamstring limb symmetry index was significantly lower in the ST-G group than in the ST and control groups. This study shows that using an ST-G autograft for ACLR yielded less flexor strength and worse results in some patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) than using an ST autograft five years after the operation. The observed results let us suggest that the use of one autograft hamstring tendon for ACLR is clinically preferable to the use of two hamstring tendons.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among Children and Adolescents with Beckwith–Wiedemann Syndrome in Northern Italy
Authors: Defabianis Patrizia , Ninivaggi Rossella , Romano Federica
Published: September 2022

Due to associated maxillofacial growth anomalies and the impairment of oral functions, macroglossia may negatively impact the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of people with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). Therefore, the aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the OHRQoL of Italian children and adolescents with BWS compared to healthy peers and to identify which symptoms related to macroglossia had the highest impact. A total of 48 patients with BWS and 48 age- and gender-matched controls completed the Italian version of OHIP-14 and a questionnaire on functional, oral and aesthetic outcomes. Parents of patients with BWS who had undergone tongue reduction surgery (TRS) answered additional questions related to surgery. The BWS group scored higher than controls on the total OHIP-14 and on the dimensions of oral function (p: 0.036) and psychosocial impact (p: 0.002), indicating a reduced OHRQoL. Neither gender nor age had an impact on OHRQoL. Scores were worse in children and adolescents treated with TRS, as most of them still had open bite malocclusion and speech difficulties. The OHRQoL of children and adolescents affected by BWS is worse than that of their healthy peers in spite of the surgical treatment of macroglossia.
Surgical Treatment and Complications of Deep-Seated Nodular Plexiform Neurofibromas Associated with Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Ikuta Kunihiro , Nishida Yoshihiro , Sakai Tomohisa , Koike Hiroshi , Ito Kan , Urakawa Hiroshi , Imagama Shiro
Published: September 2022

Background: Nodular plexiform neurofibromas in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 often cause significant symptoms and are treated with surgical excision despite the potential risk of complications. This study aimed to clarify the surgical outcomes of deep-seated nodular plexiform neurofibromas and identify the factors associated with postoperative complications. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 who underwent surgical excision for deep-seated nodular plexiform neurofibromas in our hospital from 2015 to 2021. Enucleation while preserving the nerve fascicles was attempted first, and en bloc resection, ligating the nerve origin in cases in which the parent nerve was entrapped by the tumor, making the tumor difficult to dissect, was performed. Results: In 15 patients, 24 nodular plexiform neurofibromas received surgical excision. Sixteen tumors were enucleated, and eight were en bloc resected. The symptoms of all 10 patients with preoperative symptoms resolved after surgery. Four patients developed new neurological deficits immediately after surgery, two of whom had retained neurological symptoms at the last visit, but these symptoms were mild. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that surgical treatment of nodular plexiform neurofibromas, even deep-seated neurofibromas, is safe with a low risk of severe complications and improvement in preoperative symptoms.
Association of Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, and Interictal Serum Levels of Cytokines in Migraine with and without Aura
Authors: Plinta Aelita , Tretjakovs Peteris , Svirskis Simons , Logina Inara , Gersone Gita , Jurka Antra , Mikelsone Indra , Blumfelds Leons , Mackevics Vitolds , Bahs Guntis
Published: September 2022

The aim of the study was to clarify correlations between body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), and serum levels of cytokines in female migraine patients. A total of 14 migraineurs with aura, and 12 without aura during their interictal period were compared with 25 controls. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured. Migraineurs have elevated levels of IL-8, but decreased serum levels of PAI-1 and sICAM-1 during the interictal period, regardless of aura. BMI correlates with BP, and also with IFN-γ and MMP-9 only in patients with aura. There are three correlations in migraine patients with aura that are absent in patients without aura: between IL-8 and PAI-1; MMP-9 and IL-8; and IL-8 and sICAM-1. Migraineurs without aura, on the other hand, have correlations that patients with aura do not have (between PAI-1 and MCP-1, sICAM-1; between MMP-9 and sICAM-1, MCP-1; between TGF-α and PAI-1, MMP-9, sICAM-1; between sICAM-1 and MMP-9, PAI-1, MCP-1; as well as between sVCAM-1 and MCP-1). PAI-1, TGF, and MMP-9 could be used as biomarkers to distinguish migraineurs from healthy individuals.
The Concluding Editorial Regarding the Special Issue “Latest Advances in Prosthodontics: Improving Patient-Centered Outcomes”
Authors: Montero Javier
Published: September 2022

According to the current holistic concept of health, all patients require a thorough assessment of their physical, psychological, and emotional well-being, not merely a confirmation or classification of disease [...]
Dynamic Visual Acuity Results in Otolith Electrical Stimulation in Bilateral Vestibular Dysfunction
Authors: Rodríguez-Montesdeoca Isaura , Miguel Ángel Ramos de , Falcón-González Juan Carlos , Borkoski-Barreiro Silvia , Benítez-Robaina Susana , Guerra-Jimenez Gloria , Pavone Joana , Ramos-Macías Angel
Published: September 2022

(1) Background. Patients with bilateral vestibular disease (BVD) experience oscillopsia with a detriment to visual acuity (VA). This VA is driven mainly by the VOR that has two components: rotational and translational. VA can be tested by using dynamic visual acuity (DVA) on a treadmill because both systems are activated. The aim of this study is to compare VA before and after chronic electrical stimulation of the otolith organ. (2) Materials and Method. Five patients suffering from bilateral vestibular dysfunction (BVD), previously implanted with a new vestibular implant prototype, were included in this study with the aim to check VA with and without vestibular implant use (W and W/O) in static, 2 km/h and 4 km/h walking situations. DVAtreadmill was measured on a treadmill with a dynamic illegible E (DIE) test in static and dynamic conditions (while walking on the treadmill at 2 and 4 km/h). The DVA score was registered in a logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) for each speed. In addition, every patient completed the oscillopsia severity questionnaire (OSQ) and video head impulse test (vHIT) before and after activation of the vestibular implant. (3) Results. The analysis shows a significant difference in OSQ scores and DVA with an improvement in dynamic conditions. Organized corrective saccades during the use of a vestibular implant with no changes in gain were also detected in the video head impulse tests (vHIT). (4) Conclusion. The vestibular implant with otolithic stimulation offers changes in the response of DVA, which makes this paper one of the first to address the possible restoration of it. It is not possible to rule out other contributing factors (presence of covert saccades, somatosensory system, …). More work seems necessary to understand the neurophysiological basis of these findings, but this implant is added as a therapeutic alternative for the improvement of oscillopsia.
Radiation-Induced Lung Injury: Prevention, Diagnostics and Therapy in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Käsmann Lukas , Taugner Julian , Nieto Alexander , Belka Claus , Eze Chukwuka , Manapov Farkhad
Published: September 2022

Thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) plays an integral role in the multimodal treatment of lung cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, thymoma and mesothelioma, having been used as either a definitive, neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment or for palliative intention to achieve symptom control [...]
Construction of Artificial Ovaries with Decellularized Porcine Scaffold and Its Elicited Immune Response after Xenotransplantation in Mice
Authors: Wu Tong , Gao Yue-Yue , Tang Xia-Nan , Zhang Jin-Jin , Wang Shi-Xuan
Published: September 2022

Substitution by artificial ovary is a promising approach to restore ovarian function, and a decellularized extracellular matrix can be used as a supporting scaffold. However, biomimetic ovary fabrication and immunogenicity requires more investigation. In this study, we proposed an effective decellularization protocol to prepare ovarian scaffolds, which were characterized by few nuclear substances and which retained the extracellular matrix proteins. The ovarian tissue shape and 3-dimensional structure were well-preserved after decellularization. Electron micrographs demonstrated that the extracellular matrix fibers in the decellularized group had similar porosity and structure to those of native ovaries. Semi-quantification analysis confirmed that the amount of extracellular matrix proteins was reduced, but the collagen fiber length, width, and straightness did not change significantly. Granulosa cells were attached and penetrated into the decellularized scaffold and exhibited high proliferative activity with no visible apoptotic cells on day 15. Follicle growth was compromised on day 7. The implanted artificial ovaries did not restore endocrine function in ovariectomized mice. The grafts were infiltrated with immune cells within 3 days, which damaged the artificial ovary morphology. The findings suggest that immune rejection plays an important role when using artificial ovaries.
Pain Education in the Management of Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ferlito Rosario , Blatti Chiara , Lucenti Ludovico , Boscarino Umberto , Sapienza Marco , Pavone Vito , Testa Gianluca
Published: September 2022

New prospective of chronic low back pain (CLBP) management based on the biopsychosocial model suggests the use of pain education, or neurophysiological pain education, to modify erroneous conceptions of disease and pain, often influenced by fear, anxiety and negative attitudes. The aim of the study is to highlight the evidence on the outcomes of a pain education-oriented approach for the management of CLBP. The search was conducted on the Pubmed, Scopus, Pedro and Cochrane Library databases, leading to 2673 results until September 2021. In total, 13 articles published in the last 10 years were selected as eligible. A total of 6 out of 13 studies support a significant reduction in symptoms in the medium term. Disability is investigated in only 11 of the selected studies, but 7 studies support a clear reduction in the medium-term disability index. It is difficult to assess the effectiveness of the treatments of pain education in patients affected by CLBP, due to the multimodality and heterogeneity of the treatments administered to the experimental group. In general, methods based on pain education or on cognitive-behavioral approaches, in association with physical therapy, appear to be superior to physiotherapeutic interventions alone in the medium term.
Does Back Pain Go on Holiday in the Summer?
Authors: Roggio Federico , Musumeci Giuseppe
Published: September 2022

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability among adults worldwide [...]
Consequence Analysis of Accidental LNG Release on the Collided Structure of 500 cbm LNG Bunkering Ship
Authors: Nubli Haris , Sohn Jung-Min , Jung Dongho
Published: September 2022

The growing demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled ships necessitates the establishment of an LNG bunkering facility. Ship-to-ship (STS) is one of the most practical forms of LNG bunkering systems. Although there are benefits to the LNG bunkering of ships, risk and safety issues are a concern due to the volatile cargo. Ship collision could result in accidental LNG release. The purpose of this study was to build LNG leakage scenarios, establish critical zones based on gas concentrations, and estimate the temperature reduction in a bunkering ship’s structure resulting from the use of cryogenic fluid. The condition of a target ship’s structure, both intact and when damaged due to collision, was considered. Leak size, leak direction, leak position, release rate, and reservoir pressure were included as leak parameters, and environmental parameters, such as the wind direction, wind speed, and ambient temperature, were also included. The release duration was set based on the shutdown duration of the emergency shutdown valve (ESD). A total of 72 leakage scenarios were generated for the main CFD analysis. Convergence tests were conducted to determine the appropriate grid and iteration numbers for a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The gas dispersion characteristics and the cryogenic flow impact on the LNG bunkering ship’s structure are discussed through a parametric study.
Characterizing Gas Hydrate–Bearing Marine Sediments Using Elastic Properties—Part 1: Rock Physical Modeling and Inversion from Well Logs
Authors: Guo Zhiqi , Lv Xiaoyu , Liu Cai , Chen Haifeng , Cai Zhiguang
Published: September 2022

Gas hydrates are considered a potential energy source for the future. Rock physics modeling provides insights into the elastic response of sediments containing gas hydrates, which is essential for identifying gas hydrates using well-log data and seismic attributes. This paper establishes a rock physics model (RPM) by employing effective medium theories to quantify the elastic properties of sediments containing gas hydrates. Specifically, the proposed RPM introduces critical gas hydrate saturation for various modeling schemes. Such a key factor considers the impact of gas hydrates on sediment stiffnesses during the dynamic process of the gas hydrate accumulating as pore fillings and part of the solid components. Theoretical modeling illustrates that elastic characteristics of the sediments exhibit distinct variation trends determined by critical gas hydrate saturation. Numerical tests of the model based on the well-log data confirm that the proposed technique can be employed to rationally predict gas hydrate saturation using the elastic properties. The compressional wave velocity model is also developed to estimate the gas hydrate saturation, which gives reliable fit results to core measurement data. The proposed methods could improve our understanding of the elastic behaviors of gas hydrates, providing a practical approach to estimating their concentrations.
Long-Term Petroleum Hydrocarbons Pollution after a Coastal Oil Spill
Authors: Guo Weijun , Wang Xinggang , Liu Sihong , Kong Xiangpeng , Wang Pengcheng , Xu Tiaojian
Published: September 2022

The long-term status of petroleum hydrocarbons in both seawater and sediment contaminated by the Dalian New Port oil spill has been investigated since 2010. Seawater recovery is relatively swift and is complete within two years, while oil contamination persists in the coastal sediments for several years. Because of the slow degradation and low mobility in sediments, they serve as long-term reservoirs for residual oils. The erosion of sediments into the water column leads to an abrupt increase in hydrocarbons during storms. The cumulative results of hydrodynamic transport and ongoing industrial emissions lead to a spatial shift of hot spots with high petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations from the spill site to the inner corner of the bay. In addition to continuous petroleum hydrocarbon emissions from contiguous coastal outfalls, the regional oil contamination will persist indefinitely. The research provides comprehensive information for years to come to evaluate the long-term damage and multiphase medium impacts of a large oil spill.
Static and Fatigue Full-Scale Tests on a Lightweight Ship Balcony Overhang with Al/Fe Structural Transition Joints
Authors: Palomba Giulia , Corigliano Pasqualino , Crupi Vincenzo , Epasto Gabriella , Guglielmino Eugenio
Published: September 2022

Combination of lightweight and sustainable marine structures represents a crucial step to accomplish weight reduction and improve structural response. A key point when considering the reliability of innovative structural solutions, which should not be neglected, is represented by large-scale experimental investigations and not only by small-scale specimen analysis. The present research activity deals with the experimental assessment of a lightweight ship balcony overhang, which incorporates an aluminium honeycomb sandwich structure and Al/Fe structural transition joints obtained by means of the explosion welding technique. The ship balcony overhang was formerly designed with the aim of proposing the replacement of ordinary marine structures with green and lightweight options. Experimental investigations of a large-scale structure were performed to validate the design procedure and to evaluate the feasibility of the proposed solution. Large-scale bending tests of the ship balcony overhang were performed considering representative configurations of severe loading conditions. The experimental analysis allowed the evaluation of the structure’s strength, stiffness and failure modes. Comparisons with analogous structures reported in the literature were performed with the aim of assessing the benefits and drawbacks of the proposed lightweight structure. Fatigue tests were also performed in order to evaluate the hardening and the hysteresis loops. The collapse modes of the structure were investigated using X-ray radiography. The structural transition joints have experienced no cracks during the static and fatigue tests. The results clearly indicated that the proposed solution can be integrated in new and existing ships, even if made of steel, as the Al/Fe structural transition joints produced by explosion welding can be used to connect the ship structure to the Al honeycomb balcony. The systematic analysis of the experimental results gave valuable data to enhance the design methodology of such structures.
Hormetic Effects of Carbendazim on Mycelial Growth and Aggressiveness of Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Song Jiehui , Han Chenxi , Zhang Sijie , Wang Yan , Liang You , Dai Qigen , Huo Zhongyang , Xu Ke
Published: September 2022

Rice blast caused by Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the most destructive fungal diseases of rice worldwide. Stimulatory effects of low doses of fungicides on pathogens are closely relevant to disease management. In the present study, in potato dextrose agar (PDA) amended with carbendazim at a dose range from 0.003 to 0.3 μg/mL, stimulatory effects on the mycelial growth of three isolates sensitive to carbendazim were tested. Carbendazim at concentrations from 0.003 to 0.1 µg/mL showed stimulatory effects on mycelial growth of isolates Guy11 and H08-1a, while carbendazim at concentrations from 0.003 to 0.03 µg/mL stimulated the growth of isolate P131. The maximum stimulation magnitudes were 11.84% for the three isolates tested. Mycelial colonies grown on PDA amended with different concentrations of carbendazim were incubated at 28 °C in darkness for 7 days as the pretreatment. Pretreatment mycelia were inoculated on fresh fungicide-free PDA and subsequent mycelia growth stimulations were still observed, and the maximum stimulation magnitudes were 9.15% for the three isolates tested. Pretreatment mycelia did not significantly change the tolerance to H2O2 and NaCl, except that the tolerance to H2O2 was increased significantly (p < 0.05) when the carbendazim was at 0.3 µg/mL. After five generations of mycelial transference on fungicide-free PDA, the transgenerational hormesis of mycelial were exhibited when transferred onto PDA supplemented with carbendazim at 0.3 µg/mL, and the maximum percent stimulation was 51.28%. The time course of infection indicated that the visible initial necrotic symptoms could be detected at 2 DPI on leaves treated with carbendazim at 0.03 µg/mL, whereas no necrotic symptom could be discerned for the control. Statistical results of lesion area and lesion type at 7 DPI showed that there was a significant stimulation (p < 0.05) on aggressiveness of M. oryzae isolate Guy11 on detached rice leaves at 0.03 µg/mL carbendazim. These results will advance our understanding of hormetic effects of fungicides and provide valuable information for judicious application of fungicides.
Combined Silymarin and Cotrimoxazole Therapy Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis in Experimental Paracoccidioidomycosis
Authors: Resende Victor Quinholes , Reis-Goes Karoline Hagata , Finato Angela Carolina , de Fátima Almeida-Donanzam Débora , dos Santos Amanda Ribeiro , Perico Jonatas , Amorim Barbara Casella , Venturini James
Published: September 2022

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), which mainly affects rural workers, is a systemic mycosis caused by the Paracoccidioides genus that induces pulmonary sequelae in most adult patients, causing serious disability and impairing their quality of life. Silymarin is herbal medicine with an effective antifibrotic activity. Considering that in PCM, antifibrotic treatment is still not available in pulmonary fibrosis, we aimed to evaluate combined silymarin and cotrimoxazole (CMX) therapy via the intratracheal route in BALB/c mice infected with P. brasiliensis yeast. After 12 weeks of treatment, the lungs were collected for the determination of fungal burden, production of OH-proline, deposition of collagen fibers, pulmonary concentrations of cytokines, and expression of fibronectin, α-SMA, MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-2. Spleen cell cultures were also performed. Our results showed that infected mice treated with combined silymarin/CMX showed lower deposition of collagen fibers in the lungs and lower pulmonary concentrations of hydroxyproline than the placebo groups. Decreased levels of TGF-β1 and fibronectin and high levels of MMP-2 and IFN-γ were also observed in this group of mice. Collectively, our findings indicate that the combination of antifungal treatment with silymarin has a potent antifibrotic effect associated with an immunomodulatory effect that potentializes the antifungal immune response.
Transcriptome Analysis of the Influence of High-Pressure Carbon Dioxide on Saccharomyces cerevisiae under Sub-Lethal Condition
Authors: Yu Tonghuan , Takahashi Ukyo , Iwahashi Hitoshi
Published: September 2022

High-pressure carbon dioxide (HPCD), a novel non-thermal pasteurization technology, has attracted the attention of scientists due to its high pasteurization efficiency at a lower temperature and pressure. However, the inactivation mechanism has not been well researched, and this has hindered its commercial application. In this work, we used a sub-lethal HPCD condition (4.0 MPa, 30 °C) and a recovery condition (30 °C) to repair the damaged cells. Transcriptome analysis was performed by using RNA sequencing and gene ontology analysis to investigate the detailed lethal mechanism caused by HPCD treatment. RT-qPCR analysis was conducted for certain upregulated genes, and the influence of HPCD on protoplasts and single-gene deletion strains was investigated. Six major categories of upregulated genes were identified, including genes associated with the pentose phosphate pathway (oxidative phase), cell wall organization or biogenesis, glutathione metabolism, protein refolding, phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis, and AdoMet synthesis, which are all considered to be associated with cell death induced by HPCD. The inactivation or structure alteration of YNL194Cp in the organelle membrane is considered the critical reason for cell death. We believe this work contributes to elucidating the cell-death mechanism and providing a direction for further research on non-thermal HPCD sterilization technology.
Access to Anti-Biofilm Compounds from Endolichenic Fungi Using a Bioguided Networking Screening
Authors: Toure Seinde , Millot Marion , Ory Lucie , Roullier Catherine , Khaldi Zineb , Pichon Valentin , Girardot Marion , Imbert Christine , Mambu Lengo
Published: September 2022

Endolichenic microorganisms represent a new source of bioactive natural compounds. Lichens, resulting from a symbiotic association between algae or cyanobacteria and fungi, constitute an original ecological niche for these microorganisms. Endolichenic fungi inhabiting inside the lichen thallus have been isolated and characterized. By cultivation on three different culture media, endolichenic fungi gave rise to a wide diversity of bioactive metabolites. A total of 38 extracts were screened for their anti-maturation effect on Candida albicans biofilms. The 10 most active ones, inducing at least 50% inhibition, were tested against 24 h preformed biofilms of C. albicans, using a reference strain and clinical isolates. The global molecular network was associated to bioactivity data in order to identify and priorize active natural product families. The MS-targeted isolation led to the identification of new oxygenated fatty acid in Preussia persica endowed with an interesting anti-biofilm activity against C. albicans yeasts.
Sordaria macrospora Sterile Mutant pro34 Is Impaired in Respiratory Complex I Assembly
Authors: Hamann Andrea , Osiewacz Heinz D. , Teichert Ines
Published: September 2022

The formation of fruiting bodies is a highly regulated process that requires the coordinated formation of different cell types. By analyzing developmental mutants, many developmental factors have already been identified. Yet, a complete understanding of fruiting body formation is still lacking. In this study, we analyzed developmental mutant pro34 of the filamentous ascomycete Sordaria macrospora. Genome sequencing revealed a deletion in the pro34 gene encoding a putative mitochondrial complex I assembly factor homologous to Neurospora crassa CIA84. We show that PRO34 is required for fast vegetative growth, fruiting body and ascospore formation. The pro34 transcript undergoes adenosine to inosine editing, a process correlated with sexual development in fruiting body-forming ascomycetes. Fluorescence microscopy and western blot analysis showed that PRO34 is a mitochondrial protein, and blue-native PAGE revealed that the pro34 mutant lacks mitochondrial complex I. Inhibitor experiments revealed that pro34 respires via complexes III and IV, but also shows induction of alternative oxidase, a shunt pathway to bypass complexes III and IV. We discuss the hypothesis that alternative oxidase is induced to prevent retrograde electron transport to complex I intermediates, thereby protecting from oxidative stress.
TikTok Practices among Teenagers in Portugal: A Uses & Gratifications Approach
Authors: Dias Patrícia , Duarte Alexandre
Published: September 2022

TikTok is consolidating its place in the social media landscape. During the first three months of the COVID-19, it was the most downloaded app worldwide, and it gained 500,000 new users in Portugal. Our study sets out to map the practices of Portuguese teenagers (10–16) on TikTok. Using a Uses and Gratifications approach (U&G), we conducted an online survey with a non-probabilistic sample of 347 TikTok users. Our findings show relevant differences between younger (10–12) and older (13–16) teenagers. The youngest are more careful about privacy and enjoy more experimentation as content creators, while the oldest are more focused on building an audience. Entertainment and self-expression are the main motivations for using the platform. About 50% of our sample admits at least one behavior that is indicative of addiction.
Scenario Analysis of Renewable Energy Development and Carbon Emission in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region
Authors: Zhao Zhe , Xuan Xin , Zhang Fan , Cai Ying , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: September 2022

The Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region (BTH) is a key area with large carbon emissions in China and a demonstration area for renewable energy development, facing the dual test of energy structure transformation and the achievement of carbon peak and neutrality goals. This study analyzes the main influencing factors of carbon emissions based on Kaya’s identity, establishes a socio-economic-energy-carbon emission coupled with system dynamics (SD) model, and designs five scenarios to predict and compare the future trends of energy consumption, renewable energy development and carbon emissions in BTH, respectively. The results show that (1) under the baseline scenario, energy carbon emissions in BTH will peak around 2034, and the intermediate development scenario, the transition development scenario and the sustainable development scenario all show that the region can achieve the emission peak target around 2030. (2) The renewable energy output value of BTH will reach CNY 486.46 billion in 2050 under the baseline scenario, and the share of renewable energy consumption will exceed 50% under the sustainable development scenario. (3) Increasing energy tax regulation and scientific and technological investment and adopting more stringent policy constraints can guarantee the lowest emission intensity while maintaining the current social and economic development level. This study predicts the development of a renewable energy industry and carbon emissions in BTH under different scenarios and provides policy recommendations for the future energy transition in the region.
Confronting Complexity: Interpretation of a Dry Stone Walled Landscape on the Island of Cres, Croatia
Authors: Doneus Michael , Doneus Nives , Cowley Dave
Published: September 2022

Dry stone walls are a worldwide phenomenon that may shape entire regions. As a specific form of vernacular agro-pastoral practice, they are expressions of the culture and history of a region. Dry stone walls have recently received increased attention in Croatia, primarily due to research in landscape architecture and (historical) geography, though archaeological research on such remains is rare in part due to the challenges of undertaking such work in areas covered by dense evergreen maquis vegetation. In this paper, this type of landscape has been studied in detail for the first time using Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) based digital feature models as a basis to articulate dynamic dry stone wall landscapes in a diachronic archaeological interpretation. Using a case study from the Mediterranean region of Punta Križa, Croatia, we show that what superficially appears to be a simple system of dry stone walls contains a wealth of information on a complex sequence of human activity. The systematic, detailed, and diachronic interpretation applies a transparent workflow that provides a tool for all those undertaking interpretative mappings of archaeological prospection datasets and has proved highly effective when working with ALS-derived visualizations. The capacity to develop spatio-temporal interpretation within the framework of GIS and a Harris Matrix is especially powerful and has the potential to change our image of any region. While the case study presented here deals with a small area in Croatia, the methods described have a broad application in any areas of complex landscape remains.