bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Improves Vaginal Laxity via Remodeling of Vaginal Tissues in Asian Women
Authors: Gao Lin , Wen Wei , Wang Yuanli , Li Zhaoyang , Dang Erle , Yu Lei , Zhou Chenxi , Lu Meiheng , Wang Gang
Published: September 2022

Background: Vaginal laxity (VL) is characterized by the relaxing of the vaginal wall that affects the quality of life and sexual function of patients. The current management of VL such as Kegel exercises and topical or systemic hormonal replacement results in unsatisfactory outcomes; thus, novel modalities are needed to improve the efficacy. Vaginal fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment has shown growing applications for the treatment of VL, but results show nonconformities due to the lack of objective evaluations. In this study, we aimed to validate the clinical efficacy and biophysical benefits of fractional CO2 laser treatment for VL patients with the incorporation of objective approaches. Methods: This is a descriptive study without controls. A total of 29 patients were enrolled and treated with two sessions of FemTouch vaginal fractional CO2 laser, with a one-month interval between sessions. Both subjective and objective measurements, including female sexual function index (FSFI), vaginal health index score (VHIS), vaginal tactile imaging (VTI), and histology were used to validate the clinical efficacy and biophysical benefits after treatment. Results: The overall FSFI scores and VHIS scores after the first and second treatment sessions were significantly higher than the baseline scores (p < 0.01, n = 29). VTI measurements showed a significant increase in maximal pressure resistance (kPa) of both the anterior and posterior vaginal walls at a 10–12-month post-treatment visit compared with pre-treatment controls (p < 0.001; n = 16). Histological examination showed that laser treatment led to increases in the thickness of the stratified squamous epithelium layer and density of connective tissues in the lamina propria. Conclusions: Fractional CO2 vaginal laser treatment can improve both vaginal health and sexual function and restore vaginal biomechanical properties by increasing vaginal tissue tightening and improving vaginal tissue integrity in Asian women. Our data support that fractional CO2 vaginal laser is a valid treatment modality for VL.
National Information Campaign Revealed Disease Characteristic and Burden in Adult Patients Suffering from Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Gori Niccolò , Chiricozzi Andrea , Marsili Franco , Ferrucci Silvia Mariel , Amerio Paolo , Battarra Vincenzo , Campitiello Salvatore , Castelli Antonio , Congedo Maurizio , Corazza Monica , Cristaudo Antonio , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Girolomoni Giampiero , Malara Giovanna , Micali Giuseppe , Palazzo Giovanni , Parodi Aurora , Patrizi Annalisa , Pellacani Giovanni , Pigatto Paolo , Provenzano Eugenio , Quaglino Pietro , Romanelli Marco , Rossi Mariateresa , Savoia Paola , Peris Ketty
Published: September 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease often associated with a significant impairment in the quality of life of affected patients. The Italian Society of Dermatology and Venereology (SIDeMaST) planned a national information campaign, providing direct access to 27 dermatologic centers dedicated to the management of AD. The aim of this study aimed was to outline critical aspects related to AD in the general population. Overall, 643 adult subjects were included in this study, and in 44.2% (284/643) of cases, a diagnosis of AD was confirmed, whereas about 55% of subjects were affected by other pruritic cutaneous diseases. Higher intensity of pruritus and sleep disturbance, as well as an increased interference in sport, work, and social confidence was reported in the AD group compared to the non-AD group. In the AD subgroup, the mean duration of disease was of 15.3 years, with a mean eczema area and severity index (EASI) score of 11.2, and investigator global assessment (IGA) score of 1.9 and an itch numeric rating scale (NRS) of 6.9. Almost 32% of patients were untreated, either with topical or systemic agents, whereas 44.3% used routine topical compounds (topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors), and only 7.0% of patients were systemically treated. Only 2.8% of patients reported complete satisfaction with the treatment received for AD to date. This study reveals a profound unmet need in AD, showing a poorly managed and undertreated patient population despite a high reported burden of disease. This suggests the usefulness of information campaigns with the goal of improving patient awareness regarding AD and facilitating early diagnosis and access to dedicated healthcare institutions.
Aging Combined with High Waist-to-Hip Ratio Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Yu Lo-Yip , Lin Ying-Chun , Kuo Yang-Che , Ko Hung-Ju , Chen Ming-Jen , Wang Horng-Yuan , Shih Shou-Chuan , Liu Chuan-Chuan , Hu Kuang-Chun
Published: September 2022

Background and Objective: To assess whether the combination of high waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and elderly age is associated with higher risk of GERD. Material and Methods: A total of 16,996 subjects aged ≥20 years who received esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) between January 2010 and December 2019. We evaluated the risk of GERD in different age groups and WHR groups in unadjusted analysis and multivariate logistic regression models for predictors of GERD. Results: There was a trend towards more participants with both age ≥65 years and WHR ≥ 1 (n = 129) (n = 66, 51%) than participants with age < 65 and WHR < 0.9 (n = 10,422) (n = 2814, 27%) presenting with GERD. Participants who had both age ≥ 65 years and high WHR ≥ 1 had the highest risk of any type of GERD (adjusted OR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.44–2.96, p value < 0.05) based on multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: The combination of having a high WHR and being elderly was associated with a higher risk of GERD, and preventing central obesity in the elderly population reduced the risk of GERD and the requirement for medical resources.
Change in Physical and Mental Quality-of-Life between the Short- and Mid-Term Periods after Cervical Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Retrospective Cohort Study with Minimum 5 Years Follow-up
Authors: Tamai Koji , Suzuki Akinobu , Terai Hidetomi , Kato Minori , Toyoda Hiromitsu , Takahashi Shinji , Yabu Akito , Sawada Yuta , Iwamae Masayoshi , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: September 2022

The mid-term surgical outcomes of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), evaluated using the cervical Japanese Orthopedic Association (cJOA) score, are reported to be satisfactory. However, there remains room for improvement in quality-of-life (QOL), especially after short-term follow-up. We aimed to demonstrate changes in mental and physical QOL between short- and mid-term follow-ups and determine the predictive factors for deterioration of QOL. In this retrospective cohort study, 80 consecutive patients underwent laminoplasty for CSM. The outcome measures were Short Form-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS), Mental Component Summary (MCS), and cJOA scores. PCS and MCS scores were compared at the 2- and 5-year postoperative time points. Additionally, a multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the predictive factors for deterioration. Significant factors in the logistic regression analysis were analyzed using receiver-operating characteristic curves. The results showed that MCS scores did not deteriorate after 2 years postoperatively (p = 0.912). Meanwhile, PCS significantly declined between 2 and 5 years postoperatively (p = 0.008). cJOA scores at 2 years postoperatively were significantly associated with PCS deterioration at 2-year follow-up. In conclusion, only physical QOL might show deterioration after short-term follow-up. Such deterioration is likely in patients with a cJOA score <13.0 at 2 years postoperatively.
Retinal and Corneal Changes Associated with Intraocular Silicone Oil Tamponade
Authors: Ferrara Mariantonia , Coco Giulia , Sorrentino Tania , Jasani Kirti , Moussa George , Morescalchi Francesco , Dhawahir-Scala Felipe , Semeraro Francesco , Steel David , Romano Vito , Romano Mario
Published: September 2022

Silicone oils (SO) are used as long-term intraocular tamponades and have an irreplaceable role in vitreoretinal surgery. They can, however, be associated with multiple and potentially severe complications, involving different ocular tissues, in particular retina and cornea. Recent advances in ophthalmic imaging have allowed the precise characterization of retinal and corneal microstructural changes, at a subclinical level. This detailed analysis of SO-related retinal and corneal changes has improved our understanding of their pathogenesis and offer the potential for optimized monitoring and management of patients with SO-filled eyes. This review aims to provide clinicians and ophthalmic scientists with an updated and comprehensive overview of the corneal and retinal changes associated with SO tamponade.
Biomechanical Study of Arthroscopic All-Inside Anterior Talofibular Ligament Suture Augmentation Repair, Plus Suture Augmentation Repair and Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament’s Distal Fascicle Transfer Augmentation Repair
Authors: Xiao Lei , Zheng Boyuan , Zhou Yijuan , Hu Dahai , Li Jieruo , Zheng Xiaofei , Hou Huige , Wang Huajun
Published: September 2022

Objective: To explore the biomechanical efficacy of arthroscopic all-inside anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) suture augmentation repair, plus suture augmentation repair and anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle (ATiFL-DF) transfer augmentation repair, so as to provide a basis for the accurate selection of ATFL repair in clinical practice. Methods: Twenty-four (12 pairs) fresh frozen human cadaver ankle specimens were used. Six of the ankle specimens were set as the normal group, and the other 18 ankle specimens were used to establish ATFL injury models. The ATFL was then repaired using arthroscopic all-inside ATFL suture augmentation repair (suture augmentation group), plus suture augmentation repair (plus suture augmentation group) and ATiFL-DF transfer augmentation repair (biological augmentation group), respectively. After the repaired ATFL was separated, the ankle specimens were fixed on an electronic universal testing machine with a customized fixture for the tensile test, and the ultimate failure load (N) and stiffness (N/mm) of the ankle specimens were compared. Results: The ultimate failure load of the plus suture augmentation group (229.3 ± 66.7 N) was significantly higher than that in the normal group (148.2 ± 39.4 N, p = 0.045) and the biological augmentation group (131.3 ± 38.8 N, p = 0.013). There was no statistical difference in ultimate failure load between the suture augmentation group (167.2 ± 47.2 N), the normal group and the biological augmentation group. The stiffness of the plus suture augmentation group (26.2 ± 8.2 N/mm) was significantly higher than that in the normal group (12.1 ± 3.8 N/mm, p = 0.005) and the biological augmentation group (12.7 ± 5.2 N/mm, p = 0.007). The stiffness of the suture augmentation group (23.6 ± 7.0 N/mm) was significantly higher than that in the normal group (p = 0.024) and the biological augmentation group (p = 0.033). There was no statistical difference in stiffness between the plus suture augmentation group and the suture augmentation group, and no statistical difference in stiffness between the normal group and the biological augmentation group. Conclusions: The tensile strength and rigidity of plus suture augmentation repair were significantly better than those of normal ATFL, suture augmentation repair and ATiFL-DF transfer augmentation repair. Suture augmentation repair can obtain tensile strength similar to normal ATFL and ATiFL-DF transfer augmentation repair, and suture augmentation repair can obtain rigidity significantly better than normal ATFL and ATiFL-DF transfer augmentation repair. ATiFL-DF transfer augmentation repair can obtain tensile strength and rigidity similar to normal ATFL.
Correlation between Pulmonary Artery Pressure and Vortex Duration Determined by 4D Flow MRI in Main Pulmonary Artery in Patients with Suspicion of Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
Authors: Deux Jean-François , Crowe Lindsey , Genecand Léon , Hachulla Anne-Lise , Glessgen Carl , Noble Stéphane , Beghetti Maurice , Ning Jin , Giese Daniel , Lador Frédéric , Vallée Jean-Paul
Published: September 2022

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is one of the causes of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and requires invasive measurement of the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) during right heart catheterisation (RHC) for the diagnosis. 4D flow MRI could provide non-invasive parameters to estimate the mPAP. Twenty-five patients with suspected CTEPH underwent cardiac MRI. Mean vortex duration (%), pulmonary distensibility, right ventricular volumes and function were measured using 4D flow MRI and cine sequences, and compared with the mPAP measured by RHC. The mPAP measured during RHC was 33 ± 16 mmHg (10–66 mmHg). PH (defined as mPAP > 20 mmHg) was present in 19 of 25 patients (76%). A vortical flow was observed in all but two patients (92%) on 4D flow images, and vortex duration showed good correlation with the mPAP (r = 0.805; p < 0.0001). Youden index analysis showed that a vortex duration of 8.6% of the cardiac cycle provided a 95% sensitivity and an 83% specificity to detect PH. Reliability for the measurement of vortex duration was excellent for both intra-observer ICC = 0.823 and inter-observer ICC = 0.788. Vortex duration could be a useful parameter to non-invasively estimate mPAP in patients with suspected CTEPH.
Invasiveness of Ventilation Therapy Is Associated to Prevalence of Secondary Bacterial and Fungal Infections in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients
Authors: de Hesselle Marie Louise , Borgmann Stefan , Rieg Siegbert , Vehreshild Jörg Janne , Spinner Christoph D. , Koll Carolin E. M. , Hower Martin , Stecher Melanie , Ebert Daniel , Hanses Frank , Schumann Julia ,   on behalf of the SAREL Investigators
Published: September 2022

Superinfections are a fundamental critical care problem, and their significance in severe COVID-19 cases needs to be determined. This study analyzed data from the Lean European Open Survey on SARS-CoV-2-Infected Patients (LEOSS) cohort focusing on intensive care patients. A retrospective analysis of patient data from 840 cases of COVID-19 with critical courses demonstrated that co-infections were frequently present and were primarily of nosocomial origin. Furthermore, our analysis showed that invasive therapy procedures accompanied an increased risk for healthcare-associated infections. Non-ventilated ICU patients were rarely affected by secondary infections. The risk of infection, however, increased even when non-invasive ventilation was used. A further, significant increase in infection rates was seen with the use of invasive ventilation and even more so with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy. The marked differences among ICU techniques used for the treatment of COVID-19-induced respiratory failure in terms of secondary infection risk profile should be taken into account for the optimal management of critically ill COVID-19 patients, as well as for adequate antimicrobial therapy.
The Clinical Utility of Dual-Energy Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Gout—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sotniczuk Maria , Nowakowska-Płaza Anna , Wroński Jakub , Wisłowska Małgorzata , Sudoł-Szopińska Iwona
Published: September 2022

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is an imaging technique that detects monosodium urate (MSU) deposits. This study aimed to assess the clinical utility of DECT in the diagnosis of gout. A total of 120 patients with clinical suspicion of gout who underwent DECT were retrospectively enrolled. The sensitivity and specificity of DECT alone, American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) classification criteria without DECT, and ACR/EULAR criteria with DECT were assessed. Additionally, an analysis of gout risk factors was performed. When artifacts were excluded, any MSU volume provided the best diagnostic value of DECT (AUC = 0.872, 95% CI 0.806–0.938). DECT alone had a sensitivity of 90.4% and specificity of 74.5%. Although ACR/EULAR criteria without DECT provided better diagnostic accuracy than DECT alone (AUC = 0.926, 95% CI 0.878–0.974), the best value was obtained when combing both (AUC = 0.957, 95% CI 0.924–0.991), with 100% sensitivity and 76.6% specificity. In univariate analysis, risk factors for gout were male sex, presence of tophi, presence of MSU deposits on DECT, increased uric acid in serum (each p < 0.001), and decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (p = 0.029). After logistic regression, only increased serum uric acid (p = 0.034) and decreased GFR (p = 0.018) remained independent risk factors for gout. Our results suggest that DECT significantly increases the sensitivity of the ACR/EULAR criteria in the diagnosis of gout.
Plasma Levels of Interleukins 36α, 36β, and 37 in Patients with Psoriasis and Their Correlation with Disease Activity Parameters
Authors: Słucznowska-Głabowska Sylwia , Jaworska Weronika , Staniszewska Marzena , Tkacz Marta , Safranow Krzysztof , Łuczkowska Karolina , Zagrodnik Edyta , Stecewicz Iwona , Machaliński Bogusław , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: September 2022

Psoriasis is a chronic, proliferative, inflammatory skin disease characterised by skin lesions and systemic symptoms. Numerous cytokines are produced in psoriasis as a result of inflammation. The aim of this study was to examine the plasma concentrations of IL-36α, IL-36β, and IL-37 in psoriasis and their correlations with disease activity parameters. This study recruited 84 individuals, 53 with plaque-type psoriasis and 31 healthy controls. The plaque type of psoriasis is the most common type and is typically characterized by circular-to-oval red plaques distributed over body surfaces of the extremities and scalp. In patients with psoriasis, we observed statistically significantly decreased plasma concentrations of IL-36β and IL-37. The concentrations of IL-36α were increased in comparison with control group. The plasma concentrations of IL-36α and IL-36β were statistically significantly correlated with all tested parameters of disease activity: the Psoriasis Activity Severity Index, Dermatology Life Quality Index, and Body Surface Area Index. There were no statistically significant correlations between plasma levels of IL-37 and the tested parameters of disease activity. These results indicate a role of IL36α, IL-36β, and IL-37 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, A Disease with Too Many Faces: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Grama Alina , Căinap Simona Sorana , Mititelu Alexandra , Blag Cristina , Simu Claudia , Burac Lucia , Simionescu Bianca , Mărgescu Camelia , Sur Genel , Spârchez Mihaela , Bota Mădălina , Tănasă Beatrice , Pop Tudor Lucian
Published: September 2022

Background and aim: Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare and severe condition associated with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection in children with onset approximately 4–6 weeks after infection. To date, the precise mechanism that causes MIS-C is not known and there are many questions related to the etiology, risk factors, and evolution of this syndrome. We aimed to describe the clinical manifestations, treatment methods, and disease evolution and analyze the main risk factors for MIS-C in children hospitalized in our clinic. Material and methods: We performed a retrospective study including children with MIS-C followed-up in the 2nd Pediatric Clinic of the Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children Cluj-Napoca, Romania, for 13 months (November 2020–December 2021). Results: We included in our cohort 34 children (mean age 6.8 ± 4.6 years) who met MIS-C criteria: high and prolonged fever associated with organ dysfunction (heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, bone marrow or gastrointestinal organs), and autoantibodies and/or polymerase chain reaction positives for SARS-CoV-2. Nineteen patients (55.88%) had a severe form of the disease, with multiorgan failure and shock, and myocardial or respiratory failure. The number of organs affected in the severe forms was significantly higher (more than 6 in 73.70%) than in mild forms (2–3 in 60%). Cardiac dysfunction, hypoalbuminemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hyponatremia were more important in severe forms of MIS-C. These patients required respiratory support, resuscitation with fluid boluses, vasoactive drugs, or aggressive therapy. All patients with mild forms had fully recovered compared to 63.16% in severe forms. The others with severe forms developed long-term complications (dilation of the coronary arteries, premature ventricular contraction, or myocardial fibrosis). Two patients had an extremely severe evolution. One is still waiting for a heart transplant, and the other died (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis syndrome with multiorgan failure). Conclusions: From mild to severe forms with multiorgan failure, shock, and many other complications, MIS-C represents a difficult challenge for pediatricians, who must be aware of the correct diagnosis and unpredictable, possibly severe evolution.
The Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) “Wave Maneuver”
Authors: Lavy Itay , Erdinest Nir , Katzir Ayala , London Naomi , Nche Eleanor Ngwe , Smadja David
Published: September 2022

A novel technique for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) graft handling and centration without the endothelium touching the posterior part of the anterior chamber (AC), is presented here. It is particularly suitable for vitrectomized eyes, deep AC, and AC intraocular lenses (ACIOLs), potentially reducing surgery time and endothelial cell loss during surgery. This retrospective interventional case series includes 27 eyes with complex ocular pathology. All utilized a “Wave maneuver” to center an early elevated graft without completing graft centration on the bottom of the AC. Successful graft attachment and centration were evaluated intra and post-operatively. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), and donor endothelial cell density (ECD) were measured pre-operatively, and three and six months post-operatively. DMEK grafts were successfully attached and centered in all cases. No maneuver-related complications were observed intraoperatively. BCVA improved from a pre-operative 0.2 ± 0.63, to 0.43 ± 0.49 and 0.76 ± 0.51 at the three- and six-month follow-ups, respectively (p < 0.01). CCT decreased from a pre-operative 742 ± 118, to 546 ± 87 and 512 ± 67 at three and six months, respectively (p < 0.01). ECD decreased from 2878 ± 419 cells/mm2 to 1153 ± 466 cells/mm2 at three and six months, respectively (p < 0.01). The “Wave maneuver” may be very beneficial in DMEK cases where the AC is either very deep or the bottom of the AC is compromised. The “Wave maneuver” learning curve was brief.
Preparation of Fluorescently Labeled Chitosan-Quercetin Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles with Excellent Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Zhou Jingxin , Li Na , Liu Ping , Liu Zhiwei , Gao Lili , Jiao Tifeng
Published: September 2022

In recent years, quercetin plays an increasingly important role in the medical field. However, the absorption and effect of quercetin as a drug in vivo are limited due to its extremely poor solubility in water. In addition, chitosan nanoparticles can deliver poorly soluble drugs as drug delivery carriers. Herein, chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by oxidative degradation and ionic cross-linking technology to study the drug loading properties of quercetin. On the other hand, the application of chitosan for fluorescent materials can improve the biocompatibility of fluorescent materials and increase the adsorption of fluorescent materials. Fluorescently labeled chitosan nanoparticles, especially chitosan microsphere fluorescent probes prepared using the abundant amino groups on chitosan chains to react with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FTIC), have been widely used as fluorescent probes in biomarkers and medical diagnostics. Therefore, chitosan–quercetin (CS–QT) drug-loaded nanoparticles are labeled with FITC, and the drug-loaded rate, encapsulation efficiency, and antioxidant properties were investigated. The drug-loaded rate of the sample reaches 8.39%, the encapsulation rate reaches 83.65%, and exhibits good antioxidant capacity. The fluorescence aperture of the obtained sample was consistent with the inhibition zone, which could realize the visualization of the antibacterial performance of the sample. The fluorescent-labeled nano-system exhibit superior antibacterial properties, which provide a strategy for observing the release and function of drugs.
Effect of Joint Mobilization in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Hyunjoong , Moon Seoyoung
Published: September 2022

Sensorimotor and range of motion deficits due to chronic ankle instability (CAI) are abnormalities of the movement system that make postural control difficult. This review aimed to quantify the effect of joint mobilization on the range of motion, dynamic balance, and function in individuals with CAI. Randomized controlled trials in which joint mobilization was performed in individuals with CAI were searched for in five international databases (CENTRAL, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PEDro). Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed using the risk of bias tool and RevMan 5.4 provided by the Cochrane Library. Nine studies with 364 individuals with CAI were included in this study. This meta-analysis reported that joint mobilization showed significant improvement in the dorsiflexion range of motion (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41 to 1.63) and dynamic balance (SMD = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.78) in individuals with CAI. However, there was no significant improvement in function (patient-oriented outcomes) (SMD = 0.76, 95% CI: −0.00 to 1.52). For individuals with CAI, joint mobilization has limited function but has positive benefits for the dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance.
Surface Electromyographic Activity of the Rectus Abdominis and External Oblique during Isometric and Dynamic Exercises
Authors: Mandroukas Athanasios , Michailidis Yiannis , Kyranoudis Angelos E. , Christoulas Kosmas , Metaxas Thomas
Published: September 2022

Exercises for the abdominal muscles are widely used in athletic activities for strength training and prevention of low back disorders. The timing and volume of muscle activation for various movements have not yet been clarified. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the surface electromyographic activity from the upper (RAU) and lower part (RAL) of the rectus abdominis and the external oblique (EO) muscles during eleven abdominal muscle strength training exercises. Thirty-five healthy male university students with a subspecialty in soccer participated in the study. They performed exercises involving isometric, concentric, and eccentric muscle contractions. The electromyographic recordings were amplified by a factor of 1000, rectified, and integrated. Mean integrated values were calculated by dividing the elapsed time for the five repetitions, to provide the mean integrated electromyographic values for each exercise. Leg movements from a long lying position showed higher activity of the rectus abdominis, compared to the EO (p < 0.001). The dynamic sit-ups showed an obvious dominant activity of the EO, compared to the rectus abdominis (p < 0.001). During eccentric exercise, higher activity was found in the RAU, compared to the RAL (p < 0.001). The results could serve as a basis for improving the design and specification of training exercises. Pre-exercises should be performed before testing abdominal muscle strength.
Pygmy Blue Whale Diving Behaviour Reflects Song Structure
Authors: Davenport Andrew M. , Erbe Christine , Jenner Micheline-Nicole M. , Jenner K. Curt S. , Saunders Benjamin J. , McCauley Robert D.
Published: September 2022

Passive acoustic monitoring is increasingly employed to monitor whales, their population size, habitat usage, and behaviour. However, in the case of the eastern Indian Ocean pygmy blue whale (EIOPB whale), its applicability is limited by our lack of understanding of the behavioural context of sound production. This study explored the context of singing behaviour using a 7.6-day biotelemetry dataset from a single EIOPB whale moving north from 31.5° S to 28.5° S along the Western Australian coast and a simultaneously collected, but separate, acoustic recording. Diving behaviour was classified using an automated classification schema. Singing was identified in the depth, pitch, and fluking time series of the dive profile. The EIOPB whale sang profusely as it migrated, spending more time singing during the day (76.8%) than at night (64.9%), and most during twilight periods (83.3%). The EIOPB whale almost exclusively produced the three-unit (P3) song while milling. It sang the two-unit (P2) song in similar proportions to the P3 song while travelling, except at night when P3 was sung 2.7 times more than P2. A correlation between singing depth, migration duration, and water temperature provides a biological basis to explain depth preferences for sound production, which may contribute to the cause of intra- and inter-annual sound frequency trends.
Dynamic Damping-Based Terminal Sliding Mode Event-Triggered Fault-Tolerant Pre-Compensation Stochastic Control for Tracked ROV
Authors: Chen Qiyu , Hu Yancai , Zhang Qiang , Jiang Junpeng , Chi Mingshan , Zhu Yaping
Published: September 2022

Due to the unknown disturbance caused by the harsh environment in deep water, the stability of Underwater Tracked Remotely Opreated Vehicle (UTROV) trajectory tracking control is affected; especially the resistance forces of random vibrations caused by non-differentiable random disturbance resistance, which has become one of the main problems in controller design. Considering engineering practice, a stochastic model and new dynamic damping-based terminal sliding mode event-triggered fault-tolerant controller were designed in this paper. Firstly, based on the random resistance pre-compensation theory for the first time, a stochastic model was designed for differential drive UTROV. Meanwhile, a new nonsingular terminal sliding mode and dynamic damping reaching law were designed to achieve global finite-time convergence and reduce chattering with better robust response speed. Furthermore, to deal with the wear and tear caused by actuator failure and fixed sampling rate transmission, a new dynamic event trigger mechanism was designed and the faults analyzed. On this basis, combined with the finite-time adaptive on-line estimation technology, it can not only better reduce the transmission frequency, but also the finite-time dynamic active fault-tolerant compensation. The control scheme has semi-globally finite-time stability in probability and is proved by theory, which is compliant with engineering requirements. Then, according to characteristics of innovation, the three groups of simulation of control methods are designed to compare the methods in this paper. Finally the advantages of the method are verified by simulation to achieve the design expectations.
An Efficient Algorithm for the Berth and Quay Crane Assignments Considering Operator Performance in Container Terminal Using Particle Swarm Model
Authors: Tengecha Nyamatari Anselem , Zhang Xinyu
Published: September 2022

In the existing literature, the berthing operations, the quay crane assignments, and the scheduling problems were usually conducted without considering the worker performances (WPs) and the yard truck tasks (YTTs). However, professionals in situ corroborate the crucial effect of WPs and the yard YTTs on quay crane performance and efficiency. This study introduced a new feasible model for investigating the berth and the quay crane assignments based on the scheduling problem, including worker performances and yard truck deployment constraints. First, a mixed-integer programming (MIP) model is implemented to reduce the vessel’s departure time. Then, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is introduced to solve the problems. The Dar es Salaam port is selected as a case study to test the proposed model with a real-time dataset that was collected from a multinational company managing container terminals. The results show the efficiency and the accuracy of the proposed model. The PSO algorithm is 86% and 62% more time-saving than MILP and T2S solutions for a small number of containers, respectively. Additionally, the PSO solution is 73% and 53% time-saving for a medium number of containers than MILP and T2S models, respectively. Finally, the present study proposes consideration of the worker assignment and the yard truck deployment during the planning phase.
Feeding in Deep Waters: Temporal and Size-Related Plasticity in the Diet of the Slope Predator Fish Coelorinchus caelorhincus (Risso, 1810) in the Central Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Scacco Umberto , Tiralongo Francesco , Mancini Emanuele
Published: September 2022

In-depth studies on the effect of size and period in the diet of the hollow-snout grenadier Coelorinchus caelorhincus in the Mediterranean Sea are scant and incomplete. We obtained 75 specimens of this species from the discard of deep trawl fishing on the slope of the central Tyrrhenian Sea. As corollary data, we estimated the length–weight relationship, the size frequency distribution, and composition of sexual maturity stages of the sampled individuals. We deepened stomach content analysis aiming at the evaluation of size and period’s effect in the fish diet by Costello’s interpretation of dietary indexes and correspondence analysis. The corollary results suggested negative allometric growth (b = 2.69), an asynchronous reproductive strategy (paucity of mature individuals) and a size-related bathymetrical distribution for this species (prevalence of small and intermediate-sized specimens). The prey importance index (PII) revealed that the hollow-snout grenadier is a generalist feeder on cephalopods (PII: 0–1200), fish (PII: 0–1000), crustaceans (PII: 4000–6000), and polychaetes (PII: 400–1800), and a light specialist at population level on the dominant prey among them. At the micro-taxa level, the species was found to be a generalist feeder on 10 groups of rare prey and a light specialist at population level on amphipods (PII: 1300–3200). Overall, results indicated the presence of two feeding gradients that determined an intermingled effect of size and period on fish diet. In particular, intraspecific competition and stability of food resources appeared as the factors that significantly harmonize the diet of Coelorinchus caoelorhincus in the context of the ecotrophic constraints of a deep-sea species.
Effects of Salinity on Growth and In Vitro Ichthyotoxicity of Three Strains of Karenia mikimotoi
Authors: Lam Winnie , Cheung Emily Man-Shan , Tam Nora Fung-Yee , Lee Thomas Chun-Hung , Kwok Celia Sze-Nga , Lai Kaze King-Yip , Xu Steven Jingliang , Lee Fred Wang-Fat
Published: September 2022

Karenia mikimotoi is one of the most damaging ichthyotoxic dinoflagellate species commonly found in China. However, its growth and ichthyotoxicity responses to salinity changes are still largely unknown. In this study, the growth and ichthyotoxicity of three K. mikimotoi strains, Hong Kong strain KMHK, Japanese strain NIES2411 and New Zealand strain CAWD133, under different salinities (25 to 35 ppt), initial algal densities (5 to 40 thousand cells) and growth phases were investigated. Results indicated that the optimum salinity for all three strains was 30 ppt. The Japanese strain achieved the highest maximum cell densities (cells mL−1) and the New Zealand strain achieved the highest specific growth rate. The Hong Kong and New Zealand strains could not tolerate the low salinity at 25 ppt and the algal cells burst after 3 days of exposure. The average cell widths of all three algal strains in 35 ppt salinity were significantly larger than that in 30 ppt. The acute toxicity test performed on Oncorhynchus mykiss gill cell line RTgill-W1 revealed that the median lethal times for KMHK and NIES2411 were 66.9 and 31.3 min, respectively, and their ichthyotoxicity was significantly affected by algal cell density and growth phase. Nevertheless, CAWD133 did not pose any ichthyotoxicity. The gill cell viability levels at 30 min were reduced from 96 to 61% and 95 to 39% for KMHK and NIES2411, respectively, when the algal cell density increased from 5 × 103 to 4 × 104 algal cells mL−1. Both KMHK and NIES2411 at stationary phase also had higher toxicity than at log phase, with a 27% reduction of gill cell viability, and exerted higher toxicity to the gill cells under extremely low (28 ppt) or high (35 ppt) salinity. These findings demonstrated that the growth–ichthyotoxicity response of Karenia mikimotoi to salinity was not only strain-specific but also depended on its density and growth phase. Study on the effects of salinity on the growth and toxicity of K. mikimotoi is greatly limited. Results from the present study provide valuable insight on the growth and toxicity of different K. mikimotoi strains, which is important in understanding their occurrence of algal bloom and fish-killing action.
Improved Fractional-Order PID Controller of a PMSM-Based Wave Compensation System for Offshore Ship Cranes
Authors: Chen Hao , Wang Xin , Benbouzid Mohamed , Charpentier Jean-Frédéric , Aϊt-Ahmed Nadia , Han Jingang
Published: September 2022

Wave compensation technology is crucial to the safety of the ship operation and the accurate placement of load. Its compensation efficiency and the gentle change of the rope tension are particularly important. In this paper, we adopt permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) as the actuator to construct the basic wave compensation system. Firstly, the motion model of ship and load under wave action is established, and the fractional-order PID (FOPID) controller for the position loop of the PMSM is introduced. Then, the parameters of FOPID are optimized by genetic algorithm-particle swarm optimization (GAPSO) algorithm, which is based on genetic algorithms (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms for better compensation performance. The wave synchronization strategy is used to simulate the load, when it needs to be taken into the water. The non-linear dynamic equations of the rope are solved by Lagrange mechanics and the heave displacement is obtained by time series prediction algorithm. Finally, the effect of wave compensation and wave synchronization strategy are verified on MATLAB/Simulink. The results show that after the compensation, the crane load can follow the set height value very well, the compensation efficiency can reach more than 94%, and the wave synchronization strategy significantly reduces the change of the rope tension.
Distribution Characteristics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Marine Sediments of Binhai County, Jiangsu Province
Authors: Chen Shu , Xu Min , Cui Dandan , Lv Lin , Wang Zaifeng , Liu Baiqiong , Wang Jing
Published: September 2022

In recent years, research on heavy metals has become very popular, because the status of heavy metals can reflect the marine environment of a region. Based on this, this paper carries out the evaluation and analysis of heavy metals in marine sediments. Based on the content of the heavy metals in the coastal sediments of Binhai, Jiangsu, from coastal waters in the autumns of 2012, 2015, and 2018, the environmental quality was quantitatively evaluated using the geoaccumulation index and potential ecological risk. The sources of the heavy metals were identified by a multivariate analysis, and the changes over the years and the distribution characteristics were analyzed. Hg and Cr were at a clean grade, while other heavy metals contents indicated mild-to-moderate pollution in the three sets of monitoring data. The comprehensive ecological risk index assessment showed that Hg and Cd were at a moderate ecological risk level in the three sets of monitoring data. Overall, the study area exhibited a mild-to-moderate ecological risk level, with a continuously increasing trend. The overall content of heavy metal in this sea area is greatly affected by human activities, with high values occurring in ports, estuaries, and outer seas.
Open Sea Lab: An integrated Coastal Ocean Observatory Powered by Wave Energy
Authors: Cortés Jaime , Lucero Felipe , Suarez Leandro , Escauriaza Cristian , Navarrete Sergio A. , Tampier Gonzalo , Cifuentes Cristian , Cienfuegos Rodrigo , Manriquez Daniel , Parragué Bárbara , Osiadacz Nicole , Finke Randy
Published: September 2022

Current advances in wave energy technologies have enabled the development of new integrated measurement platforms powered by the energy of wave motion. Instrumentation is now being deployed for the long-term observation of the coastal ocean, with the objectives of analyzing the performance of wave energy converters (WECs) and studying their interactions with the surrounding environment and marine life. In this work, we present the most relevant findings of the installation and initial operation of the Open Sea Lab (OSL), the first coastal observatory in Latin America powered entirely by a WEC device. We evaluated the preliminary data regarding the combined operation of the system, the generation of energy, and the observations obtained by the continuous monitoring of physical variables at the site. The data showed the seasonal variability of the energy produced by the WEC for a range of wave heights during the period of observation. We also investigated the rapid development of biofouling on mooring lines, junction boxes, and other parts of the system, which is characteristic of the settlement and growth of organisms in this ocean region. These analyses show how this new facility will advance our understanding of the coastal environment in the south Pacific Ocean and foster new interdisciplinary collaborations addressing environmental and technical challenges, thereby contributing to the development of wave energy on the continent.
Absorptive Turbulent Seawater and Parameter Optimization of Perfect Optical Vortex for Optical Communication
Authors: Yan Qingze , Zhang Yixin , Yu Lin , Zhu Yun
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the optimization of perfect optical vortex (POV) parameter for underwater wireless optical communication link under M-QAM by average bit-error rate (ABER) and the effect of seawtaer turbulence on link information capacity are investigated. The link is absorbent, weakly turbulent, and bandwidth-limited. In investigating, we use the spectral absorption coefficient to describe the wavelength effect of seawater absorption. Specifically, under the paraxial approximation and Rytov approximation conditions, we define the average signal-to-noise-crosstalk ratio including the system bandwidth factor and derive the bandwidth-limited ABER of the OAM carrier link. Capitalizing on the defined average signal-to-noise crosstalk ratio and the derived bandwidth-limited ABER of link, the novel closed-form expression for the average information capacity of the perfect optical vortex link under M-QAM modulation is proposed. Through the numerical analysis of the ABER and the average information capacity, the POV optimization parameters in specific communication links are obtained and new conclusions are drawn that the average information capacity is restricted by both signal wavelength and the seawater absorption coefficient.
Effects of Algal Utilization of Dissolved Organic Phosphorus by Microcystis Aeruginosa on Its Adaptation Capability to Ambient Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Ren Lingxiao , Huang Jing , Zhu Huagang , Jiang Wei , Wu Haoyu , Pan Yuyang , Mao Yinghui , Luo Minghan , Jeong Taeseop
Published: September 2022

Phosphorus (P) plays an important role in eutrophication and algal adaptation to environmental stresses; therefore, a better understanding of the impact of P is essential to control cyanobacterial bloom. In this study, Microcystis aeruginosa is treated with 5 h of ambient irradiation in the culture medium with different availabilities of dissolved organic P (DOP) and dissolved organic matter (DOM) to explore algal physiological responses. Compared to photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), ambient UV-A and UV-B radiation exerted oxidative stresses and has inhibitive effects on the growth and photosynthesis of M. aeruginosa. However, M. aeruginosa had a strong adaptation capability, and the negative effects of UV radiation can be alleviated with DOM addition in the DOP-rich medium. The adaptation of M. aeruginosa to UV radiation in the DOP-rich waters can be mainly achieved through hydrolysis of DOP and metabolism of dissolved inorganic P (DIP), and the DOP utilization behaviors of M. aeruginosa might greatly affect algal UV adaptation capability. In the DOP-rich medium without DOM, the great inactivation of algal alkaline phosphatase (APase) after UV radiation could result in worse affinity for DOP, slower DOP uptake and lower cellular P quota. Consequently, the P demand of M. aeruginosa could not be satisfied for UV adaptation processes, including decreasing UV-induced damages and promoting self-repair. However, DOM could act as an antioxidant and significantly decrease APase inactivation of UV-radiated M. aeruginosa. In the DOP-rich medium with DOM, DOP utilization by M.aeruginosa in the UV-A and UV-B treatments is promoted and algal demand for P is satisfied for its adaptation, such as enhanced production of photosynthetic pigments, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, recovery of photosynthetic efficiency, etc. Overall, our findings indicate the close relationship between algal DOP utilization and the adaptation to ambient UV radiation of typical cyanobacteria in DIP-limited and DOP-enriched natural waters.
Ocean Plankton Biomass Estimation with a Digital Holographic Underwater Glider
Authors: Wang Yingjie , Zhang Lianhong , Ma Wei , Wang Yanhui , Niu Wendong , Song Yu , Wang Weimin
Published: September 2022

Accurate quantitative plankton observation is significant for biogeochemistry and environmental monitoring. However, current observation equipment is mostly shipborne, and there is a lack of long-term, large-scale, and low-cost methods for plankton observation. This paper proposes a solution to investigate plankton using a Seascan holographic camera equipped with a “Petrel-II” underwater glider for a longer time sequence and at a larger scale. Aiming at the new challenges of low efficiency and low accuracy of holographic image processing after integrating holographic imaging systems and underwater gliders, a novel plankton data analysis method applicable to Digital Holographic Underwater Gliders (DHUG) is proposed. The algorithm has the following features: (1) high efficiency: the algorithm breaks the traditional hologram information extraction order, focusing only on the key regions in the hologram and minimizing the redundant computation; (2) high accuracy: applying the Sobel variance algorithm to the plankton in the hologram to focus the plane extraction significantly improves the focus accuracy; and (3) high degree of automation: by integrating a convolutional neural network, the algorithm achieves a fully automated analysis of the observed data. A sea test in the South China Sea verified that the proposed algorithm could greatly improve the problems of severe plankton segmentation and the low focusing accuracy of traditional information extraction algorithms. It also proved that the DHUG plankton survey has great potential.