bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Humanized-Aquaporin-4-Expressing Rat Created by Gene-Editing Technology and Its Use to Clarify the Pathology of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Namatame Chihiro , Abe Yoichiro , Miyasaka Yoshiki , Takai Yoshiki , Matsumoto Yuki , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Mashimo Tomoji , Misu Tatsuro , Fujihara Kazuo , Yasui Masato , Aoki Masashi
Published: July 2024

Conventional rodent neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) models using patient-derived immunoglobulin G (IgG) are potentially affected by the differences between the human and rodent aquaporin-4 (AQP4) extracellular domains (ECDs). We hypothesized that the humanization of AQP4 ECDs would make the rodent model lesions closer to human NMOSD pathology. Humanized-AQP4-expressing (hAQP4) rats were generated using genome-editing technology, and the human AQP4-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) or six patient-derived IgGs were introduced intraperitoneally into hAQP4 rats and wild-type Lewis (WT) rats after immunization with myelin basic protein and complete Freund’s adjuvant. Human AQP4-specific mAb induced astrocyte loss lesions specifically in hAQP4 rats. The patient-derived IgGs also induced NMOSD-like tissue-destructive lesions with AQP4 loss, demyelination, axonal swelling, complement deposition, and marked neutrophil and macrophage/microglia infiltration in hAQP4 rats; however, the difference in AQP4 loss lesion size and infiltrating cells was not significant between hAQP4 and WT rats. The patient-derived IgGs bound to both human and rat AQP4 M23, suggesting their binding to the shared region of human and rat AQP4 ECDs. Anti-AQP4 titers positively correlated with AQP4 loss lesion size and neutrophil and macrophage/microglia infiltration. Considering that patient-derived IgGs vary in binding sites and affinities and some of them may not bind to rodent AQP4, our hAQP4 rat is expected to reproduce NMOSD-like pathology more accurately than WT rats.
Analysis of Whole-Genome for Identification of Seven Penicillium Species with Significant Economic Value
Authors: Huang Yuanhao , Fu Lianguo , Gan Yutong , Qi Guihong , Hao Lijun , Xin Tianyi , Xu Wenjie , Song Jingyuan
Published: July 2024

The Penicillium genus exhibits a broad global distribution and holds substantial economic value in sectors including agriculture, industry, and medicine. Particularly in agriculture, Penicillium species significantly impact plants, causing diseases and contamination that adversely affect crop yields and quality. Timely detection of Penicillium species is crucial for controlling disease and preventing mycotoxins from entering the food chain. To tackle this issue, we implement a novel species identification approach called Analysis of whole GEnome (AGE). Here, we initially applied bioinformatics analysis to construct specific target sequence libraries from the whole genomes of seven Penicillium species with significant economic impact: P. canescens, P. citrinum, P. oxalicum, P. polonicum, P. paneum, P. rubens, and P. roqueforti. We successfully identified seven Penicillium species using the target we screened combined with Sanger sequencing and CRISPR-Cas12a technologies. Notably, based on CRISPR-Cas12a technology, AGE can achieve rapid and accurate identification of genomic DNA samples at a concentration as low as 0.01 ng/µL within 30 min. This method features high sensitivity and portability, making it suitable for on-site detection. This robust molecular approach provides precise fungal species identification with broad implications for agricultural control, industrial production, clinical diagnostics, and food safety.
Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptors LPAR5 and LPAR2 Inversely Control Hydroxychloroquine-Evoked Itch and Scratching in Mice
Authors: Fischer Caroline , Schreiber Yannick , Nitsch Robert , Vogt Johannes , Thomas Dominique , Geisslinger Gerd , Tegeder Irmgard
Published: July 2024

Lysophosphatidic acids (LPAs) evoke nociception and itch in mice and humans. In this study, we assessed the signaling paths. Hydroxychloroquine was injected intradermally to evoke itch in mice, which evoked an increase of LPAs in the skin and in the thalamus, suggesting that peripheral and central LPA receptors (LPARs) were involved in HCQ-evoked pruriception. To unravel the signaling paths, we assessed the localization of candidate genes and itching behavior in knockout models addressing LPAR5, LPAR2, autotaxin/ENPP2 and the lysophospholipid phosphatases, as well as the plasticity-related genes Prg1/LPPR4 and Prg2/LPPR3. LacZ reporter studies and RNAscope revealed LPAR5 in neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and in skin keratinocytes, LPAR2 in cortical and thalamic neurons, and Prg1 in neuronal structures of the dorsal horn, thalamus and SSC. HCQ-evoked scratching behavior was reduced in sensory neuron-specific Advillin-LPAR5−/− mice (peripheral) but increased in LPAR2−/− and Prg1−/− mice (central), and it was not affected by deficiency of glial autotaxin (GFAP-ENPP2−/−) or Prg2 (PRG2−/−). Heat and mechanical nociception were not affected by any of the genotypes. The behavior suggested that HCQ-mediated itch involves the activation of peripheral LPAR5, which was supported by reduced itch upon treatment with an LPAR5 antagonist and autotaxin inhibitor. Further, HCQ-evoked calcium fluxes were reduced in primary sensory neurons of Advillin-LPAR5−/− mice. The results suggest that LPA-mediated itch is primarily mediated via peripheral LPAR5, suggesting that a topical LPAR5 blocker might suppress “non-histaminergic” itch.
Enhanced Assessment of Cross-Reactive Antigenic Determinants within the Spike Protein
Authors: Lechuga Guilherme C. , Temerozo Jairo R. , Napoleão-Pêgo Paloma , Carvalho João P. R. S. , Gomes Larissa R. , Bou-Habib Dumith Chequer , Morel Carlos M. , Provance David W. , Souza Thiago M. L. , De-Simone Salvatore G.
Published: July 2024

Despite successful vaccination efforts, the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants poses ongoing challenges to control COVID-19. Understanding humoral responses regarding SARS-CoV-2 infections and their impact is crucial for developing future vaccines that are effective worldwide. Here, we identified 41 immunodominant linear B-cell epitopes in its spike glycoprotein with an SPOT synthesis peptide array probed with a pool of serum from hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The bioinformatics showed a restricted set of epitopes unique to SARS-CoV-2 compared to other coronavirus family members. Potential crosstalk was also detected with Dengue virus (DENV), which was confirmed by screening individuals infected with DENV before the COVID-19 pandemic in a commercial ELISA for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. A high-resolution evaluation of antibody reactivity against peptides representing epitopes in the spike protein identified ten sequences in the NTD, RBD, and S2 domains. Functionally, antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) in SARS-CoV-2 infections of monocytes was observed in vitro with pre-pandemic Dengue-positive sera. A significant increase in viral load was measured compared to that of the controls, with no detectable neutralization or considerable cell death, suggesting its role in viral entry. Cross-reactivity against peptides from spike proteins was observed for the pre-pandemic sera. This study highlights the importance of identifying specific epitopes generated during the humoral response to a pathogenic infection to understand the potential interplay of previous and future infections on diseases and their impact on vaccinations and immunodiagnostics.
Bilirubin Molecular Species Play an Important Role in the Pathophysiology of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Castillo-Castañeda Stephany M. , Cordova-Gallardo Jacqueline , Rivera-Espinosa Liliana , Chavez-Pacheco Juan L. , Ramírez-Mejía Mariana M. , Méndez-Sánchez Nahum
Published: July 2024

Bilirubin plays a key role in early diagnosis, prognosis, and prevention of liver diseases. Unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) requires conversion to a water-soluble form through liver glucuronidation, producing monoglucuronide (BMG) or diglucuronide bilirubin (BDG) for bile excretion. This study aimed to assess the roles of bilirubin’s molecular species—UCB, BMG, and BDG—in diagnosing and understanding the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), compensated liver cirrhosis (LC) patients, and healthy individuals. The study included patients with ACLF and compensated LC of diverse etiologies, along with healthy controls. We collected laboratory and clinical data to determine the severity and assess mortality. We extracted bilirubin from serum samples to measure UCB, BMG, and BDG using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The quantification of bilirubin was performed by monitoring the mass charge (m/z) ratio. Of the 74 patients assessed, 45 had ACLF, 11 had LC, and 18 were healthy individuals. Among ACLF patients, the levels of molecular species of bilirubin were UCB 19.69 μmol/L, BMG 47.71 μmol/L, and BDG 2.120 μmol/L. For compensated cirrhosis patients, the levels were UCB 11.29 μmol/L, BMG 1.49 μmol/L, and BDG 0.055 μmol/L, and in healthy individuals, the levels were UCB 6.42 μmol/L, BMG 0.52 μmol/L, and BDG 0.028 μmol/L. The study revealed marked elevations in the bilirubin species in individuals with ACLF compared to those with compensated cirrhosis and healthy controls, underscoring the progression of liver dysfunction. The correlation of BMG and BDG levels with commonly used inflammatory markers suggests a relationship between bilirubin metabolism and systemic inflammation in ACLF.
LncRNAs in the Dlk1-Dio3 Domain Are Essential for Mid-Embryonic Heart Development
Authors: Teng Xiangqi , He Hongjuan , Yu Haoran , Zhang Ximeijia , Xing Jie , Shen Jiwei , Li Chenghao , Wang Mengyun , Shao Lan , Wang Ziwen , Yang Haopeng , Zhang Yan , Wu Qiong
Published: July 2024

The Dlk1-Dio3 domain is important for normal embryonic growth and development. The heart is the earliest developing and functioning organ of the embryo. In this study, we constructed a transcriptional termination model by inserting termination sequences and clarified that the lack of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression in the Dlk1-Dio3 domain caused the death of maternal insertion mutant (MKI) and homozygous mutant (HOMO) mice starting from E13.5. Parental insertion mutants (PKI) can be born and grow normally. Macroscopically, dying MKI and HOMO embryos showed phenomena such as embryonic edema and reduced heart rate. Hematoxylin and eosin (H.E.) staining showed thinning of the myocardium in MKI and HOMO embryos. In situ hybridization (IHC) and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed downregulation of lncGtl2, Rian, and Mirg expression in MKI and HOMO hearts. The results of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) analysis indicated that the lack of lncRNA expression in the Dlk1-Dio3 domain led to reduced proliferation of epicardial cells and may be an important cause of cardiac dysplasia. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Dlk1-Dio3 domain lncRNAs play an integral role in ventricular development.
Potential Role of mRNA in Estimating Postmortem Interval: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cianci Vincenzo , Mondello Cristina , Sapienza Daniela , Guerrera Maria Cristina , Cianci Alessio , Cracò Annalisa , Omero Fausto , Gioffrè Vittorio , Gualniera Patrizia , Asmundo Alessio , Germanà Antonino
Published: July 2024

Although the postmortem interval estimation still represents one of the main goals of forensic medicine, there are still several limitations that weigh on the methods most used for its determination: for this reason, even today, precisely estimating the postmortem interval remains one of the most important challenges in the forensic pathology field. To try to overcome these limitations, in recent years, numerous studies have been conducted on the potential use of the mRNA degradation time for reaching a more precise post mortem interval (PMI) estimation. An evidence-based systematic review of the literature has been conducted to evaluate the state of the art of the knowledge focusing on the potential correlation between mRNA degradation and PMI estimation. The research has been performed using the electronic databases PubMed and Scopus. The analysis conducted made it possible to confirm the potential applicability of mRNA for reaching a more precise PMI estimation. The analysis of the results highlighted the usefulness of some mRNAs, such as β-actin and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) mRNA, especially in short time frames, within a few hours or days of death. The matrices on which these analyses were conducted were also analyzed, resulting in less exposure to the external environment, including the heart, brain, and dental pulp. The major limitations were also reported, including the short time intervals analyzed in most of the articles, the lack of mathematical models, and the failure to report the error rate between the mRNA degradation time and PMI. Given the still small number of published articles, the lack of globally recognized standardized methods, and the numerous techniques used to evaluate the mRNA degradation times, numerous and larger studies are still necessary to reach more solid and shared evidence.
Evaluation of a Novel Immunochromatographic Device for Detecting Porphyromonas gingivalis in Patients with Periodontal Disease
Authors: Yamanaka Rieko , Usui Michihiko , Kobayashi Kaoru , Onizuka Satoru , Kasai Shingo , Sano Kotaro , Hironaka Shou , Yamasaki Ryota , Yoshii Shinji , Sato Tsuyoshi , Fujii Wataru , Iwasaki Masanori , Ariyoshi Wataru , Nakashima Keisuke , Nishihara Tatsuji
Published: July 2024

Porphyromonas gingivalis is the most pathogenic periodontal bacterium in the world. Recently, P. gingivalis has been considered responsible for dysbiosis during the development of periodontitis. This study aimed to evaluate a novel immunochromatographic device using monoclonal antibodies against P. gingivalis in subgingival plaques. A total of 72 patients with chronic periodontitis and 53 periodontally healthy volunteers underwent clinical and microbiological examinations. Subgingival plaque samples were analyzed for the presence of P. gingivalis and compared using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In the periodontitis group, a significant positive correlation was observed between the test device scores and the real-time PCR results. The specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the test device for P. gingivalis, as determined by real-time PCR, were 98%, 94%, 89%, and 90%, respectively. There were significant differences in bacterial counts by real-time PCR among the groups with different ranges of device scores. Additionally, there was a significant positive correlation between the device scores for P. gingivalis and periodontal parameters. These results suggest that this novel immunochromatographic device can be effectively used for rapid detection and semi-quantification of P. gingivalis in subgingival plaques.
Red and Green Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Pure Copper in Combination with Chemical Post-Processing for RF Cavity Fabrication
Authors: Mayerhofer Michael , Brenner Stefan , Dickmann Marcel , Doppler Michael , Gruber Samira , Helm Ricardo , Lopez Elena , Maier Verena , Mitteneder Johannes , Neukirchen Carsten , Nedeljkovic-Groha Vesna , Reinarz Bernd , Schuch Michael , Stepien Lukas , Dollinger Günther
Published: July 2024

Linear particle accelerators (Linacs) are primarily composed of radio frequency cavities (cavities). Compared to traditional manufacturing, Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) holds the potential to fabricate cavities in a single piece, enhancing Linac performance and significantly reducing investment costs. However, the question of whether red or green laser PBF yields superior results for pure copper remains a subject of ongoing debate. Eight 4.2 GHz single-cell cavities (SCs) were manufactured from pure copper using both red and green PBF (SCs R and SCs G). Subsequently, the surface roughness of the SCs was reduced through a chemical post-processing method (Hirtisation) and annealed at 460 °C to maximize their quality factor (Q0). The geometric accuracy of the printed SCs was evaluated using optical methods and resonant frequency (fR) measurements. Surface conductivity was determined by measuring the quality factor (Q0) of the SCs. Laser scanning microscopy was utilized for surface roughness characterization. The impact of annealing was quantified using Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Electron Backscatter Diffraction to evaluate chemical surface properties and grain size. Both the SCs R and SCs G achieved the necessary geometric accuracy and thus fR precision. The SCs R achieved a 95% Q0 after a material removal of 40 µm. The SCs G achieved an approximately 80% Q0 after maximum material removal of 160 µm. Annealing increased the Q0 by an average of about 5%. The additive manufacturing process is at least equivalent to conventional manufacturing for producing cavities in the low-gradient range. The presented cavities justify the first high-gradient tests.
Psychiatric Characteristics, Symptoms of Insomnia and Depression, Emotion Regulation, and Social Activity among Swiss Medical Students
Authors: Regli Jonas , Sadeghi-Bahmani Dena , Rigotti Viola , Stanga Zeno , Ülgür Ismail I. , Fichter Christian , Lang Undine E. , Brühl Annette B. , Brand Serge
Published: July 2024

Background: Almost by default, young adult students are at increased risk of suffering from mental health issues, and this holds particularly true for medical students. Indeed, compared to the general population and non-medical students, medical students report higher scores for symptoms of depression. For Swiss medical students, research on the associations between psychiatric characteristics and symptoms of depression and insomnia, including cognitive–emotional processes and social activity, has been lacking so far. Given this, the aims of the present study were to relate self-declared psychiatric characteristics to symptoms of depression, insomnia, emotion regulation, and social activity. Methods: A total of 575 medical students (mean age: 22.4 years; 68.9% females) completed an online survey covering sociodemographic information (age and gender), study context (year of study), self-declared psychiatric characteristics and symptoms of depression, insomnia, emotion regulation (cognitive reappraisal vs. emotion suppression), and social activity. Data on insomnia sum scores and categories of historical samples (862 non-medical students and 533 police and emergency response service officers) were used for comparison. Results: Of the 575 participants, 190 participants (33%) self-declared psychiatric issues, such as major depressive disorder; anxiety disorders, including PTSD and adjustment disorders; eating disorders; ADHD; or a combination of such psychiatric issues. Self-reporting a psychiatric issue was related to higher symptoms of depression and insomnia and lower symptoms of social activity and cognitive reappraisal (always with significant p-values and medium effect sizes). Compared to historical data for non-medical students and police and emergency response service officers, medical students reported higher insomnia scores. In a regression model, current self-declared psychiatric issues, female gender, higher scores for insomnia, and lower scores for social activity were associated with higher scores for depression. Conclusions: Among a sample of Swiss medical students, the occurrence of self-declared psychiatric issues was associated with higher scores for depression and insomnia and lower cognitive reappraisal and social activity. Further, insomnia scores and insomnia categories were higher when compared to non-medical students and to police and emergency response service officers. The data suggest that medical schools might introduce specifically tailored intervention and support programs to mitigate medical students’ mental health issues. This holds particularly true for insomnia, as standardized and online-delivered treatment programs for insomnia (eCBTi) are available.
Evaluation of Postoperative Pain When Adding a Tibial Nerve Block to the Femoral Nerve Block for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Mira-Puerto Alejandra , Romero-Aroca Pedro , Rodríguez-Gangoso Alfredo , Ferrando-de Jorge Albert , Duart-Oltra Mireia , Sala-Francino Pilar , Martínez-Segovia Mari Carmen , Baget-Bernaldiz Marc
Published: July 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy when a tibial nerve block was added to the femoral nerve block for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods: A total of 60 patients were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG) or the control group (CG) in a 1:1 ratio. The thirty patients who formed the CG underwent an ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block together with neuraxial anaesthesia and the administration of opioids and NSAIDs through an intravenous elastomeric pump for the management of the postoperative pain; the other thirty, who formed the EG, underwent neuraxial anaesthesia together with femoral and tibial nerve blocks. The efficacy of the analgesic effect was evaluated based on the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and on the need for analgesic rescue at different time intervals within 48 h after surgery. Results: At 24 h, the mean NPRS score in the EG and CG at rest was 1.50 ± 1.19 and 1.63 ± 1.60 [U = 443.5, p = 0.113], respectively. With joint movement, the mean NPRS score was 2.80 ± 1.49 and 3.57 ± 1.79 [U = 345, p = 0.113], respectively. Ten patients in the EG [33.3%] and 24 in the CG [80%] required rescue analgesia [Phi = 0.471, p < 0.001]. At 48 h, the mean NPRS score in the EG and CG at rest was 0.33 ± 0.60 and 0.43 ± 0.72 [U = 428, p = 0.681], respectively. With movement, the mean NPRS score was 1.03 ± 0.99 in the EG and 1.60 ± 1.07 in the CG [U = 315, p = 0.038]. No patient in the EG group required rescue analgesia, while three patients in the CG [10%] did [Phi = 0.229, p = 0.076]. The mean opioid dosage in the CG was 300 mg, whereas in the EG it was 40 mg ± 62.14 [U < 0.05, p < 0.001]. Conclusions: Adding a tibial nerve block to the femoral nerve block in TKA may achieve the same analgesic efficacy within 48 h after surgery and would reduce the systematic use of opioids.
The Role of Glucose, Insulin and Body Fat in Assessment of Bone Mineral Density and Trabecular Bone Score in Women with Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea
Authors: Sowińska-Przepiera Elżbieta , Krzyścin Mariola , Syrenicz Igor , Orlińska Adrianna , Ćwiertnia Adrianna , Przepiera Adam , Jezierska Karolina , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta , Bumbulienė Žana , Syrenicz Anheli
Published: July 2024

Background: For years, bone mineral density (BMD) has played a key role in assessing bone health, but the trabecular bone score (TBS) is emerging as an equivalent measure. However, BMD alone may not fully measure bone quality or predict osteoporosis risk. To evaluate the usefulness of TBS and BMD in estimating the risk of bone fracture in young women with FHA, this study examined the association between metabolic parameters and bone quality, which was measured using TBS and BMD. Methods: We analyzed the association of metabolic factors with tests assessing bone quality—TBS and BMD. Patients were checked for BMI, measured body fat, and determined serum glucose levels and insulin levels in a 75g glucose load test. Spearman correlation analysis was used. Results: Significant positive correlations were found between BMD and age (p < 0.001) and body fat (p < 0.001), as well as between TBS values and BMI (p < 0.001) and TBS and percent body fat (p < 0.001). Of the variables analyzed in the multivariate analysis, the only independent predictor of higher bone mineral density in the lumbar spine was found to be higher values of the trabecular bone index in the same segment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of TBS provides a simple tool for estimating the risk of bone damage. Ultimately, early screening, diagnosis and treatment of patients with FHA may help prevent osteoporosis and fragility fractures in the long term.
Analysis of Models to Predict Mechanical Properties of High-Performance and Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Using Machine Learning
Authors: Hematibahar Mohammad , Kharun Makhmud , Beskopylny Alexey N. , Stel’makh Sergey A. , Shcherban’ Evgenii M. , Razveeva Irina
Published: July 2024

High-Performance Concrete (HPC) and Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) have many applications in civil engineering industries. These two types of concrete have as many similarities as they have differences with each other, such as the mix design and additive powders like silica fume, metakaolin, and various fibers, however, the optimal percentages of the mixture design properties of each element of these concretes are completely different. This study investigated the differences and similarities between these two types of concrete to find better mechanical behavior through mixture design and parameters of each concrete. In addition, this paper studied the correlation matrix through the machine learning method to predict the mechanical properties and find the relationship between the concrete mix design elements and the mechanical properties. In this way, Linear, Ridge, Lasso, Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision tree, and Partial least squares (PLS) regressions have been chosen to find the best regression types. To find the accuracy, the coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root-mean-square error (RMSE) were selected. Finally, PLS, Linear, and Lasso regressions had better results than other regressions, with R2 greater than 93%, 92%, and 92%, respectively. In general, the present study shows that HPC and UHPC have different mix designs and mechanical properties. In addition, PLS, Linear, and Lasso regressions are the best regressions for predicting mechanical properties.
Acute Effects of Kickboxing K1 Matches on Hematological Parameters of Kickboxers
Authors: Niewczas Marta , İlbak İsmail , Düz Serkan , Pałka Tomasz , Ambroży Tadeusz , Duda Henryk , Wąsacz Wojciech , Król Paweł , Czaja Robert , Rydzik Łukasz
Published: July 2024

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers’ hematological parameters. In this context, this cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the acute changes in the hematological parameters of kickboxers following K1 matches. With the participation of 10 kickboxing K1 athletes, the hematological parameters, including the WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, Mono, RBC, Hgb, Hct, CK, La, and glucose levels, were examined before and after matches. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the pre-test and post-test hematological parameters of the participants. The findings indicated statistically significant differences in the post-match WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, CK, La, and glucose levels, while no statistically significant differences were observed in the RBC, Hct, Hgb, and CK levels (p < 0.05). These results not only emphasize the complexity of physiological changes in athletes, but also show consistency with various findings in the literature, while contradicting some. Therefore, it is highlighted that further research is needed to understand the effects of K1 matches on hematological parameters.
Exploring the Molecular Adaptations, Benefits, and Future Direction of Exercise Training: Updated Insights into Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Mendoza Michael F. , Suan Nina M. , Lavie Carl J.
Published: July 2024

This review emphasizes the globally accepted physical activity guidelines and explores the various molecular adaptations that occur with continuous exercise. It is essential to highlight the critical roles of cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, and muscle mass in reducing mortality and enhancing quality of life. It has been shown in various studies that there are certainly substantial reductions in cardiovascular and all-cause mortality among individuals with high cardiorespiratory fitness levels. Resistance training is also examined, which, likewise, reveals significant mortality benefits, even with minimal weekly engagement. When delving into the molecular mechanisms, it is apparent that exercise training favorably influences certain cardiovascular conditions, mostly owing to its effect on enhanced lipid metabolism, improvement in glucose regulation, ability to modulate inflammation and oxidative processes, and induction of other cardioprotective effects like improved sympathetic tone and left ventricular remodeling. Cardiovascular diseases and malignancy also share the same risk factors, which explains why exercise can also mitigate the risk of developing many types of cancers. But despite these advancements in research, cardiovascular diseases continue to be prevalent, which may suggest the need to devise other means of promoting physical activity involvement. These approaches may include a greater emphasis on the societal benefits of increased exercise adherence, facilitated by community involvement and technological advancements in fitness tracking devices. We conclude that the future directions for exercise research should emphasize the need for personalized or tailored exercise programs to make it more engaging, accessible, and inclusive for a diverse set of people.
Temperature-Dependent Post-Cyclic Mechanical Characteristics of Interfaces between Geogrid and Marine Reef Sand: Experimental Research and Machine Learning Modeling
Authors: Chao Zhiming , Wang Haoyu , Zheng Jinhai , Shi Danda , Li Chunxu , Ding Gege , Feng Xianhui
Published: July 2024

The mechanical response of the marine reef sand–geogrid (RG) interface can be influenced by a high-temperature climate, grain size, and variable stress environments. These factors are critical to the effectiveness of geogrid reinforcement in reef sand engineering. However, there are few studies on the influences of grain size, temperature, and stress history on the mechanical characteristics of RG interfaces, with most studies centering on the influence of single factors on the mechanical characteristics of RG interfaces. In this paper, based on self-developed temperature-controlled large interface shear equipment, a series of before/post-cyclic shear tests were carried out on RG interfaces in the temperature range of 5–80 °C. The impact of different reef sand grain sizes on the RG interface was explored (S1: 1–2 mm; S2: 2–4 mm). It was shown that temperature and grain size had significant influences on the mechanical characteristics of the RS interface. Compared with the S1 RG interfaces, the S2 RG interfaces had higher sensitivity to temperature changes with respect to the before/post-cyclic maximum shear strength. Moreover, in comparison to the before-cyclic shear strength, the post-cyclic maximum shear strength is more responsive to temperature changes. The before/post-cyclic maximum shear strength of the S2 RG interfaces was greater than the maximum shear strength of the S1 RG interfaces as the temperature changed. Based on the results of physical tests, a machine learning model containing 450 datasets was constructed, which can accurately predict the shear strength of the RG interface.
Fundus Autofluorescence in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Dumitrescu Otilia-Maria , Zemba Mihail , Brănișteanu Daniel Constantin , Pîrvulescu Ruxandra Angela , Radu Madalina , Stanca Horia Tudor
Published: July 2024

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of visual morbidity worldwide. Fundus autofluorescence is a rapid, non-invasive imaging modality that has gained increased popularity in recent years in the multimodal evaluation of diabetic retinopathy and, in particular, of diabetic macular oedema. Acquired using either a fundus camera or the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope, short-wavelength and near-infrared autofluorescence are the most used techniques in diabetic retinopathy. In diabetic macular oedema, short-wavelength autofluorescence, in its cystoid pattern, is useful for detecting cystoid macular oedema. Increased spot hyperautofluorescence in short-wavelength and granular changes in near-infrared autofluorescence correlate well with other imaging findings, indicating photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium damage and being associated with decreased visual acuity. While also being a marker of oxidative stress, increased short-wavelength autofluorescence in the setting of diabetic macular oedema appears to be a prognostic factor for poor visual outcome, even after the resolution of the intraretinal fluid. Autofluorescence also helps in the assessment of diabetic retinal pigment epitheliopathy and choroidopathy. Fundus autofluorescence is an evolving technology that will assist in gaining further insight into the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy and allow for a more comprehensive evaluation of these patients.
Enhancing and Validating a Framework to Curb Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs)
Authors: Netshisaulu Ndiimafhi Norah , van der Poll Huibrecht Margaretha , van der Poll John Andrew
Published: July 2024

This article examines illicit financial flows (IFFs) perpetuated in financial statements to develop a framework to curb IFFs. IFFs create opacity, impeding economic progress through investment deterrents and financial uncertainty. Through a comprehensive literature review and the synthesis of sets of qualitative propositions, the researchers previously developed a conceptual framework to address IFFs, and the purpose of the present article is to strengthen and validate the framework among stakeholders in the financial and audit sectors. Following a mixed inductive and deductive research approach and a qualitative methodological choice, the researchers conducted interviews among practitioners to enhance the framework, followed by a focus group to validate the framework. IFF challenges that emerged are tax evasion, for example, investments in untraceable offshore accounts, harming the economy, and bitcoins not being subject to regulation everywhere in the world and being used by cryptocurrency criminals to transfer IFFs to nations with lax regulations. Internationally, IFF risks are also determined by geographical position, trade links, and porous borders among countries that emerged as further challenges, calling for entities to execute existing policies, improve tax enforcement methods, apply cross-border coordination, and practice financial reporting transparency aimed at combatting IFF practices. On the strength of these, the industry surveys significantly enhanced the conceptual framework.
Enhancing Model Selection by Obtaining Optimal Tuning Parameters in Elastic-Net Quantile Regression, Application to Crude Oil Prices
Authors: Al-Jawarneh Abdullah S. , Alsayed Ahmed R. M. , Ayyoub Heba N. , Ismail Mohd Tahir , Sek Siok Kun , Ariç Kivanç Halil , Manzi Giancarlo
Published: July 2024

Recently, there has been an increased focus on enhancing the accuracy of machine learning techniques. However, there is the possibility to improve it by selecting the optimal tuning parameters, especially when data heterogeneity and multicollinearity exist. Therefore, this study proposed a statistical model to study the importance of changing the crude oil prices in the European Union, in which it should meet state-of-the-art developments on economic, political, environmental, and social challenges. The proposed model is Elastic-net quantile regression, which provides more accurate estimations to tackle multicollinearity, heavy-tailed distributions, heterogeneity, and selecting the most significant variables. The performance has been verified by several statistical criteria. The main findings of numerical simulation and real data application confirm the superiority of the proposed Elastic-net quantile regression at the optimal tuning parameters, as it provided significant information in detecting changes in oil prices. Accordingly, based on the significant selected variables; the exchange rate has the highest influence on oil price changes at high frequencies, followed by retail trade, interest rates, and the consumer price index. The importance of this research is that policymakers take advantage of the vital importance of developing energy policies and decisions in their planning.
Effect of Electroplastic-Assisted Grinding on Surface Quality of Ductile Iron
Authors: Feng Shuo , Jia Dongzhou , Zhang Yanbin , Wu Xiaoqiang , Guo Erkuo , Xue Rui , Gong Taiyan , Yang Haijun , Li Xiaoxue , Jiang Xin
Published: July 2024

Ductile iron is a heterogeneous material. The presence of spherical graphite and a hard and brittle structure makes the surface of the workpiece easily form pits and crack defects under harsh grinding conditions, which seriously affects the service life and service performance of the workpiece. The new assisted grinding process based on the electroplastic effect is expected to avoid the surface defects of ductile iron. By comparing the surface roughness and microstructure of conventional grinding and electroplastic-assisted grinding, the superiority of electroplastic-assisted grinding surface quality is confirmed. Further discussion is presented on the impact of grinding parameters on the workpiece’s surface quality under the same electrical parameters. The results show that the sensitivity of surface roughness to grinding parameters from strong to weak is grinding wheel speed, feed speed and grinding depth. The optimal combination of grinding parameters is determined as a grinding wheel speed of 30 m/s, a feed speed of 0.5 m/min and a grinding depth of 10 μm.
Mechanical Properties and Cooperation Mechanism of Corroded Steel Plates Retrofitted by Laser Cladding Additive Manufacturing under Tension
Authors: Kang Lan , Song Peng , Liu Xinpei , Chen Haizhou
Published: July 2024

As a metal additive manufacturing process, laser cladding (LC) is employed as a novel and beneficial repair technology for damaged steel structures. This study employed LC technology with 316 L stainless steel powder to repair locally corroded steel plates. The influences of interface slope and scanning pattern on the mechanical properties of repaired specimens were investigated through tensile tests and finite element analysis. By comparing the tensile properties of the repaired specimens with those of the intact and corroded specimens, the effectiveness of LC repair technology was assessed. An analysis of strain variations in the LC sheet and substrate during the load was carried out to obtain the cooperation mechanism between the LC sheet and substrate. The experimental results showed that the decrease in interface slope slightly improved the mechanical properties of repaired specimens. The repaired specimens have similar yield strength and ultimate strength to the intact specimens and better ductility as compared to the corroded specimen. The stress–strain curve of repaired specimens can be divided into four stages: elastic stage, substrate yield-LC sheet elastic stage, substrate hardening-LC sheet elastic stage, and plastic stage. These findings suggest that the LC technology with 316 L stainless steel powder is effective in repairing damaged steel plates in civil engineering structures and that an interface slope of 1:2.5 with the transverse scanning pattern is suitable for the repair process.
Study on the Effects of Pasture Fiber on Thermal Properties of Slag Bricks
Authors: Wu Zhixin , He Long , Hou Jiarui , Li Guo , Ma Jiale
Published: July 2024

In the context of ecological sustainability, this study focuses on the effect of variables of pasture fibers on the thermal properties of slag bricks made from a green recyclable material. This experiment uses slag as the binder, sand as the aggregate, and pasture fiber as an additive. The experimental variables include the additive content ratio of the pasture fiber, the size of the pasture fiber, and the type of pasture fiber. Significance analysis of the experimental results of the thermal performance tests is carried out using Minitab 18.1.0 software, and the optimal ratios for the thermal performance of the composite samples are derived from the response optimizer and conformity analysis. The results of the experiment’s test analysis using Minitab 18 software indicate that, with an increase in pasture fiber content, the thermal performance of the composite samples initially decreases before increasing. Additionally, the lower the thermal conductivity of the composite sample, the lower the apparent density and the higher the porosity. Incorporating pasture fibers into slag bricks, as revealed in this study, reduces the waste of pasture resources in pastoral areas and promotes the development of sustainable building materials with favorable thermal properties.
Fault Diagnosis in Drones via Multiverse Augmented Extreme Recurrent Expansion of Acoustic Emissions with Uncertainty Bayesian Optimisation
Authors: Berghout Tarek , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Drones are a promising technology performing various functions, ranging from aerial photography to emergency response, requiring swift fault diagnosis methods to sustain operational continuity and minimise downtime. This optimises resources, reduces maintenance costs, and boosts mission success rates. Among these methods, traditional approaches such as visual inspection or manual testing have long been utilised. However, in recent years, data representation methods, such as deep learning systems, have achieved significant success. These methods learn patterns and relationships, enhancing fault diagnosis, but also face challenges with data complexity, uncertainties, and modelling complexities. This paper tackles these specific challenges by introducing an efficient representation learning method denoted Multiverse Augmented Recurrent Expansion (MVA-REX), allowing for an iterative understanding of both learning representations and model behaviours and gaining a better understanding of data dependencies. Additionally, this approach involves Uncertainty Bayesian Optimisation (UBO) under Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), a lighter neural network training tool, to tackle both uncertainties in data and reduce modelling complexities. Three main realistic datasets recorded based on acoustic emissions are involved in tackling propeller and motor failures in drones under realistic conditions. The UBO-MVA Extreme REX (UBO-MVA-EREX) is evaluated under many, error metrics, confusion matrix metrics, computational cost metrics, and uncertainty quantification based on both confidence and prediction interval features. Application compared to the well-known long-short term memory (LSTM), under Bayesian optimisation of the approximation error, demonstrates performances, certainty, and cost efficiency of the proposed scheme. More specifically, the accuracy obtained by UBO-MVA-EREX, ~0.9960, exceeds the accuracy of LSTM, ~0.9158, by ~8.75%. Besides, the search time for UBO-MVA-EREX is ~0.0912 s, which is ~98.15% faster than LSTM, ~4.9287 s, making it highly applicable for such challenging tasks of fault diagnosis-based acoustic emission signals of drones.
Live-Streaming Commerce in the Supply Chain with Equity Cooperation: Independent or Cooperative?
Authors: Cheng Yongwei
Published: July 2024

Live-streaming commerce (LSC) has been adopted by an increasing number of supply-chain enterprises to enhance their market competitiveness. However, the question of who will lead live-streaming e-commerce in the supply chain (SC-LSC) is a key issue, especially when there is equity cooperation between upstream and downstream enterprises. Three main SC-LSC models are examined: independent SC-LSC run by manufacturers, independent SC-LSC run by retailers, and cooperatively run SC-LSC. Then, a novel LSC demand function composed of online popularity, price discount and sales conversion rate is proposed. Furthermore, four scenarios have been comprehensively investigated considering whether there is an online-to-offline drainage effect and whether there is equity cooperation. Regardless of the scenario, having both parties reach an agreement on a given SC-LSC model is difficult, and even equity cooperation cannot promote SC-LSC cooperation. In most cases, manufacturers tend to offset the losses caused by the drainage effect by adopting high wholesale prices, which will in turn exacerbate retailers’ resistance to SC-LSC. These findings provide insight into how LSC is modeled and how LSC can be better implemented in various types of supply chains such as that of Gree Electric.
Enhanced Multi-Party Privacy-Preserving Record Linkage Using Trusted Execution Environments
Authors: Han Shumin , Shen Kuixing , Shen Derong , Wang Chuang
Published: July 2024

With the world’s data volume growing exponentially, it becomes critical to link it and make decisions. Privacy-preserving record linkage (PPRL) aims to identify all the record information corresponding to the same entity from multiple data sources, without disclosing sensitive information. Previous works on multi-party PPRL methods typically adopt homomorphic encryption technology due to its ability to perform computations on encrypted data without needing to decrypt it first, thus maintaining data confidentiality. However, these methods have notable shortcomings, such as the risk of collusion among participants leading to the potential disclosure of private keys, high computational costs, and decreased efficiency. The advent of trusted execution environments (TEEs) offers a solution by protecting computations involving private data through hardware isolation, thereby eliminating reliance on trusted third parties, preventing malicious collusion, and improving efficiency. Nevertheless, TEEs are vulnerable to side-channel attacks. In this work, we propose an enhanced PPRL method based on TEE technology. Our methodology involves processing plaintext data within a TEE using the inner product mask technique, which effectively obfuscates the data, making it impervious to side-channel attacks. The experimental results demonstrate that our approach not only significantly improves resistance to side-channel attacks but also enhances efficiency, showing better performance and privacy preservation compared to existing methods. This work provides a robust solution to the challenges faced by current PPRL methods and sets the stage for future research aimed at further enhancing scalability and security.
Explicit Solutions for Coupled Parallel Queues
Authors: Bruneel Herwig , Devos Arnaud
Published: July 2024

We consider a system of two coupled parallel queues with infinite waiting rooms. The time setting is discrete. In either queue, the service of a customer requires exactly one discrete time slot. Arrivals of new customers occur independently from slot to slot, but the numbers of arrivals into both queues within a slot may be mutually dependent. Their joint probability generating function (pgf) is indicated as A(z1,z2) and characterizes the whole model. In general, determining the steady-state joint probability mass function (pmf) u(m,n),m,n≥0 or the corresponding joint pgf U(z1,z2) of the numbers of customers present in both queues is a formidable task. Only for very specific choices of the arrival pgf A(z1,z2) are explicit results known. In this paper, we identify a multi-parameter, generic class of arrival pgfs A(z1,z2), for which we can explicitly determine the system-content pgf U(z1,z2). We find that, for arrival pgfs of this class, U(z1,z2) has a denominator that is a product, say r1(z1)r2(z2), of two univariate functions. This property allows a straightforward inversion of U(z1,z2), resulting in a pmf u(m,n) which can be expressed as a finite linear combination of bivariate geometric terms. We observe that our generic model encompasses most of the previously known results as special cases.