bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Parity and Preterm Birth—Retrospective Analysis from a Single Center in Poland
Authors: Szyszka Monika , Rzońca Ewa , Rychlewicz Sylwia , Bączek Grażyna , Ślęzak Daniel , Rzońca Patryk
Published: June 2023

Preterm births and parity are two medical areas that seem to be entirely different from each other. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between parity and maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with preterm birth. This study involved a retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from St. Sophia Hospital in Warsaw (Poland). This study was conducted among women who gave birth to preterm infants between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2021. A total of 2043 cases of preterm births were included in the final analysis. A higher odds ratio of preterm birth in primiparas was found in women living in a city/town (OR = 1.56) and having secondary (OR = 1.46) and higher education (OR = 1.82). Multiparas who gave birth to preterm infants were more frequently diagnosed with gestational diabetes (19.69%) than primiparas. Multiparas were more likely to give birth to preterm infants who received an Apgar score of ≤7 both at 1 and 5 min after birth (25.80% and 15.34%). The results of our study emphasize the differences between primiparas and multiparas who give birth to preterm infants. Knowledge of these differences is essential to improve the perinatal care provided to mothers and their infants.
Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 50 to 70 Years: Mechanical or Bioprosthetic Valve? A Systematic Review
Authors: Sigala Evangelia , Kelesi Martha , Terentes-Printzios Dimitrios , Vasilopoulos Georgios , Kapadohos Theodoros , Papageorgiou Dimitrios , Tzatzou Alexia , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Stavropoulou Areti
Published: June 2023

Although transcatheter aortic valve implantation has emerged as a very attractive treatment option for severe aortic valve disease, surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is still considered the standard-of-care, particularly in younger patients. However, selecting the appropriate type of valve prosthesis for this patient population can pose challenges. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate morbidity and mortality in patients aged 50–70 years who have undergone a first-time SAVR, and to define and compare the outcomes of mechanical valve (MV) and biological valve (BV) prosthesis. A systematic search was conducted to investigate the clinical outcomes of MVs and BVs in patients aged 50–70 years following the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 16,111 patients were included in the studies with an average follow-up of 10 years. A total of 16 studies were selected, 12 of which included propensity-score-matching (PMS) analysis and 4 of which obtained results via multivariate analysis. The vast majority (13 studies) showed no greater survival benefit in either MVs and BVs, while three studies showed an advantage of MVs over BVs. Regarding complications, bleeding was the most common adverse event in patients undergoing MV replacement, while for patients receiving BV prosthesis, it was structural valve deterioration and reoperation. Although the data suggest that the BV option could be a safe option in patients younger than 70 years, more studies with contemporary data are needed to draw firm conclusions on the risks and benefits of BV or MV in SAVR. Physicians should individualize the surgical plan based on patient characteristics.
Effects of Curved-Path Gait Training on Gait Ability in Middle-Aged Patients with Stroke: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jin Youngmi , Lee Yubin , Park Seiyoun , Lee Sangbin , Lim Chaegil
Published: June 2023

(1) Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of curved-path stride gait training on the gait ability of patients with stroke. (2) Materials and Methods: Thirty patients with stroke were randomly assigned to curved-path stride gait training (n = 15) and general gait training groups (n = 15). Both groups underwent training for 30 min five times a week for 8 weeks. The gait ability of each was assessed using the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) test, 10-meter walk test, and Figure-of-8 walk test (F8WT). (3) Results: The curved-path gait training group showed significant differences in the DGI, TUG test, 10-m walk test, and F8WT pre- versus post- intervention (p < 0.05). The general gait training group showed no significant difference in F8WT pre- versus post-intervention (p > 0.05). Additionally, there was a statistically significant intergroup difference in gait ability (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Curved-path gait training resulted in greater improvement in gait ability than general gait training. Therefore, curved-path gait training can be a meaningful intervention for improving the gait ability of patients with stroke.
Influence of Obesity in Children with Supracondylar Humeral Fractures Requiring Surgical Treatment at a Tertiary Pediatric Trauma Center
Authors: Bašković Marko , Vucković Lucija , Borić Krakar Marta , Rešić Arnes , Benco Kordić Nikolina , Kljenak Antun
Published: June 2023

Background: Almost everywhere in the world, childhood obesity is becoming a serious public health problem with negative effects on both children’s health and society as a whole. The main objective of this study was to determine whether obesity has an effect on the severity of supracondylar humerus fracture in children, regardless of whether it is a low- or high-energy trauma. Methods: The electronic records of patients treated for the supracondylar fracture of the humerus in the ten-year period from 1 January 2013 to 1 January 2023 were reviewed retrospectively. Results: In the observed period, 618 children, including 365 (59.06%) boys and 253 (40.94%) girls, were hospitalized and treated surgically with the diagnosis of supracondylar fracture. The distributions according to the observed parameters were as follows: age (months) = 88.18 ± 32.64; height (cm) = 123.42 ± 16.83; weight (kg) = 27.18 ± 11.32; body mass index = 17.18 ± 3.06; body mass index-for-age percentile = 57.34 ± 32.11. Overall, 141 (22.82%) fractures were classified as Gartland II, while 477 (77.18%) were classified as Gartland III. A total of 66 (10.68%) fractures were flexion type, while 552 (89.32%) were extension type. The left elbow was affected in 401 (64.89%) children, while the right was affected in 217 (35.11%) children. The main mechanism of injury was a fall at ground level (33.33%). In relation to gender, a statistically significant difference was recorded in body mass index and percentile (p < 0.05). According to Gartland, the proportion of children below and above the 85th percentile in relation to the type of injury was statistically significant (p < 0.05). It was determined that the energy level does not significantly influence the injury’s severity: p(GII) = 0.225; p(GIII) = 0.180. Conclusions: In our study, we found that the proportion of overweight and obese children requiring surgical treatment was higher in Gartland type III injury, so there is no doubt that as a society we must prevent further increases in the prevalence of childhood obesity for this reason as well.
Utilising the Implementation of Integrated Care to Develop a Pragmatic Framework for the Sustained Uptake of Service Innovations (SUSI)
Authors: Foley Catherine , Allan Julaine , Lappin Julia , Courtney Ryan , Farnbach Sara , Henderson Alexandra , Shakeshaft Anthony
Published: June 2023

The provision of integrated care (IC) across alcohol and other drug (AOD) and mental health (MH) services represents the best practice, yet the consistent delivery of IC in routine practice rarely occurs. Our hypothesis is that there is no practical or feasible systems-change approach to guide staff, researchers, or consumers through the complex transition that is required for the sustained uptake of IC across diverse clinical settings. To address this gap, we combined clinical and consumer expertise with the best available research evidence to develop a framework to drive the uptake of IC. The goal was to develop a process that is both standardised by the best available evidence and can be tailored to the specific characteristics of different health services. The result is the framework for Sustained Uptake of Service Innovation (SUSI), which comprises six core components that are applied in a specified sequence and a range of flexible activities that staff can use to deliver the core components according to their circumstances and preferences. The SUSI is evidence-based and practical, and further testing is currently underway to ensure it is feasible to implement in different AOD and MH services.
Detection by Sensitive Real-Time Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification of Olive Leaf Yellowing Associated Virus and Its Incidence in Italy and Spain
Authors: Caruso Andrea Giovanni , Bertacca Sofia , Ragona Arianna , Agrò Graziella , Font-San-Ambrosio Maria Isabel , Alfaro-Fernández Ana , Sánchez Rocío Estévez , Panno Stefano , Davino Salvatore
Published: June 2023

Olive trees (Olea europea L.) are constantly threatened by many viruses, such as the olive leaf yellowing-associated virus (OLYaV), that belong to the Olivavirus genus, family Closteroviridae. In this work, the OLYaV incidence in different regions of Italy and Spain, which represent the two most important European areas for olive production, was evaluated through the development of a real-time reverse transcription-loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) for reliable and sensitive OLYaV detection. The specificity and accuracy of the developed real-time RT-LAMP assay were determined; the assay showed that potential cross-reactivity with other viruses belonging to the Closteroviridae family was excluded. The LAMP assay detected OLYaV with a higher sensitivity than conventional end-point RT-PCR, detecting a total of 1.34 × 10−2 genome copies. A total of 80 and 120 plants of different olive cultivars from Spain (Comunitat Valenciana, Andalusia) and Italy (Sicily, Calabria, Apulia, Lazio, and Umbria) regions were tested, respectively. The percentage of infected plants was 46.25% and 30% for Spain and Italy, respectively, while the most susceptible cultivars were “Serrana Espadán” and “Villalonga” from Comunitat Valenciana and Andalusia regions (Spain) and “Ogliarola barese” from Apulia region (Italy). In addition, the survey demonstrated that the real-time RT-LAMP showed good sensitivity for OLYaV-positive sample detection, especially on asymptomatic olive trees. For this reason, the developed assay could be very suitable for phytopathological laboratories as a reliable and efficient method for a rapid and sensitive routine test on olive samples.
Riverine Microplastic Pollution: Insights from Cagayan de Oro River, Philippines
Authors: Gabriel Aiza D. , Amparado Ruben F. , Lubguban Arnold A. , Bacosa Hernando P.
Published: June 2023

Rivers are vital water sources for humans and homes for aquatic organisms. Conversely, they are well known as the route of plastics into the ocean. Despite being the world’s number one emitter of riverine plastics into the ocean, microplastics (MPs), or plastic particles less than 5 mm, in the Philippines’ rivers are relatively unexplored. Water samples were collected from six sampling stations along the river channel of the Cagayan de Oro River, one of the largest rivers in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. The extracted microplastics’ abundance, distribution, and characteristics were analyzed using a stereomicroscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed a mean concentration of 300 items/m3 of MPs dominated by blue-colored (59%), fiber (63%), 0.3–0.5 mm (44%), and polyacetylene (48%) particles. The highest concentration of microplastics was recorded near the mouth of the river, and the lowest was in the middle area. The findings indicated a significant difference in MP concentration at the sampling stations. This study is the first assessment of microplastic in a river in Mindanao. The results of this study will aid in formulating mitigation strategies for reducing riverine plastic emissions.
Anthropogenic Contamination in the Free Aquifer of the San Luis Potosí Valley
Authors: Torres-Rivera Sonia , Torres-Hernández José Ramón , Carranco-Lozada Simón Eduardo , García-Arreola María Elena , López-Doncel Rubén Alfonso , Montenegro-Ríos Jesús Anibal
Published: June 2023

The San Luis Potosí valley is an endorheic basin that contains three aquifers: a shallow unconfined aquifer of alluvial material and two deep aquifers, free and confined. The groundwater contamination documented for the shallow aquifer generates contamination of the deep unconfined type aquifer, from which part of the population’s drinking water needs are met. This study records incipient anthropogenic contamination of two types: biogenic and potentially toxic trace elements. The studied contaminants include fecal coliform bacteria, total coliform, nitrate, and potentially toxic elements such as: manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd). This contamination in some locations exceeds the permissible limit for human consumption. Some major consequences to health, including severe illness, may be caused by the trace elements. The present results give a first signal about the contamination of the deep unconfined type aquifer due to anthropogenic activity in the valley. This is a priority issue because this aquifer supplies drinking water, and in the short or medium term it will have an effect on public health.
Acute Exacerbations of Interstitial Lung Diseases: Focus on Biomarkers
Authors: Drakopanagiotakis Fotios , Markart Philipp , Steiropoulos Paschalis
Published: June 2023

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a large group of pulmonary disorders characterized histologically by the cardinal involvement of the pulmonary interstitium. The prototype of ILDs is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), an incurable disease characterized by progressive distortion and loss of normal lung architecture through unchecked collagen deposition. Acute exacerbations are dramatic events during the clinical course of ILDs, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Infections, microaspiration, and advanced lung disease might be involved in the pathogenesis of acute exacerbations. Despite clinical scores, the prediction of the onset and outcome of acute exacerbations is still inaccurate. Biomarkers are necessary to characterize acute exacerbations better. We review the evidence for alveolar epithelial cell, fibropoliferation, and immunity molecules as potential biomarkers for acute exacerbations of interstitial lung disease.
Role of Pancreatic Tumour-Derived Exosomes and Their Cargo in Pancreatic Cancer-Related Diabetes
Authors: Binang Helen B. , Perera Chamini J. , Apte Minoti V.
Published: June 2023

One of the most common and deadly types of pancreatic cancer (PC) is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), with most patients succumbing to the disease within one year of diagnosis. Current detection strategies do not address asymptomatic PC; therefore, patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage when curative treatment is often no longer possible. In order to detect PC in asymptomatic patients earlier, the risk factors that could serve as reliable markers need to be examined. Diabetic mellitus (DM) is a significant risk factor for this malignancy and can be both a cause and consequence of PC. Typically, DM caused by PC is known as new-onset, pancreatogenic, pancreoprivic, or pancreatic cancer-related diabetes (PCRD). Although PCRD is quite distinct from type 2 DM (T2DM), there are currently no biomarkers that differentiate PCRD from T2DM. To identify such biomarkers, a better understanding of the mechanisms mediating PCRD is essential. To this end, there has been a growing research interest in recent years to elucidate the role of tumour-derived exosomes and their cargo in the pathogenesis of PCRD. Exosomes derived from tumours can be recognized for their specificity because they reflect the characteristics of their parent cells and are important in intercellular communication. Their cargo consists of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which can be transferred to and alter the behaviour of recipient cells. This review provides a concise overview of current knowledge regarding tumour-derived exosomes and their cargo in PCRD and discusses the potential areas worthy of further study.
The Unfolded Protein Response Sensor IRE1 Regulates Activation of In Vitro Differentiated Type 1 Conventional DCs with Viral Stimuli
Authors: Medel Bernardita , Bernales José Ignacio , Lira Alonso , Fernández Dominique , Iwawaki Takao , Vargas Pablo , Osorio Fabiola
Published: June 2023

Type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) are leukocytes competent to coordinate antiviral immunity, and thus, the intracellular mechanisms controlling cDC1 function are a matter of intense research. The unfolded protein response (UPR) sensor IRE1 and its associated transcription factor XBP1s control relevant functional aspects in cDC1s including antigen cross-presentation and survival. However, most studies connecting IRE1 and cDC1 function are undertaken in vivo. Thus, the aim of this work is to elucidate whether IRE1 RNase activity can also be modeled in cDC1s differentiated in vitro and reveal the functional consequences of such activation in cells stimulated with viral components. Our data show that cultures of optimally differentiated cDC1s recapitulate several features of IRE1 activation noticed in in vivo counterparts and identify the viral analog Poly(I:C) as a potent UPR inducer in the lineage. In vitro differentiated cDC1s display constitutive IRE1 RNase activity and hyperactivate IRE1 RNase upon genetic deletion of XBP1s, which regulates production of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-12p40, TNF-α and IL-6, Ifna and Ifnb upon Poly(I:C) stimulation. Our results show that a strict regulation of the IRE1/XBP1s axis regulates cDC1 activation to viral agonists, expanding the scope of this UPR branch in potential DC-based therapies.
Nicotine and Microvascular Responses in Skeletal Muscle from Acute Exposure to Cigarettes and Vaping
Authors: Pitzer Christopher R. , Aboaziza Eiman A. , O’Reilly Juliana M. , Mandler W. Kyle , Olfert I. Mark
Published: June 2023

Despite claims of safety or harm reduction for electronic cigarettes (E-cig) use (also known as vaping), emerging evidence indicates that E-cigs are not likely safe, or necessarily safer than traditional cigarettes, when considering the user’s risk of developing vascular dysfunction/disease. E-cigs are different from regular cigarettes in that E-cig devices are highly customizable, and users can change the e-liquid composition (such as the base solution, flavors, and nicotine level). Since the effects of E-cigs on the microvascular responses in skeletal muscle are poorly understood, we used intravital microscopy with an acute (one-time 10 puff) exposure paradigm to evaluate the individual components of e-liquid on vascular tone and endothelial function in the arterioles of the gluteus maximus muscle of anesthetized C57Bl/6 mice. Consistent with the molecular responses seen with endothelial cells, we found that the peripheral vasoconstriction response was similar between mice exposed to E-cig aerosol or cigarette smoke (i.e., 3R4F reference cigarette); this response was not nicotine dependent, and endothelial cell-mediated vasodilation was not altered within this acute exposure paradigm. We also report that, regardless of the base solution component [i.e., vegetable glycerin (VG)-only or propylene glycol (PG)-only], the vasoconstriction responses were the same in mice with inhalation exposure to 3R4F cigarette smoke or E-cig aerosol. Key findings from this work reveal that some component other than nicotine, in inhaled smoke or aerosol, is responsible for triggering peripheral vasoconstriction in skeletal muscle, and that regardless of one’s preference for an E-cig base solution composition (i.e., ratio of VG-to-PG), the acute physiological response to blood vessels appears to be the same. The data suggest that vaping is not likely to be ‘safer’ than smoking towards blood vessels and can be expected to produce and/or result in the same adverse vascular health outcomes associated with smoking cigarettes.
Germanium Complexes with ONO Tridentate Ligands: O-H Bond Activation Control According to DFT Calculations
Authors: Zaitsev Kirill V. , Trubachev Andrey D. , Poleshchuk Oleg Kh.
Published: June 2023

Polydentate ligands are used for thermodynamic stabilization of tetrylenes—low-valent derivatives of Group 14 elements (E = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb). This work shows by DFT calculations how the structure (the presence or absence of substituents) and type (alcoholic, Alk, or phenolic, Ar) of tridentate ligands 2,6-pyridinobis(1,2-ethanols) [AlkONOR]H2 and 2,6-pyridinobis(1,2-phenols) [ArONOR]H2 (R = H, Me) may affect the reactivity or stabilization of tetrylene, indicating the unprecedented behavior of Main Group elements. This enables the unique control of the type of the occurring reaction. We found that unhindered [ONOH]H2 ligands predominantly led to hypercoordinated bis-liganded {[ONOH]}2Ge complexes, where an E(+2) intermediate was inserted into the ArO-H bond with subsequent H2 evolution. In contrast, substituted [ONOMe]H2 ligands gave [ONOMe]Ge: germylenes, which may be regarded as kinetic stabilized products; their transformation into E(+4) species is also thermodynamically favorable. The latter reaction is more probable for phenolic [ArONO]H2 ligands than for alcoholic [AlkONO]H2. The thermodynamics and possible intermediates of the reactions were also investigated.
Field Control Effect and Initial Mechanism: A Study of Isobavachalcone against Blister Blight Disease
Authors: Yang Xiuju , Cao Kunqian , Ren Xiaoli , Cao Guangyun , Xun Weizhi , Qin Jiayong , Zhou Xia , Jin Linhong
Published: June 2023

Blister blight (BB) disease is caused by the obligate biotrophic fungal pathogen Exobasidium vexans Massee and seriously affects the yield and quality of Camellia sinensis. The use of chemical pesticides on tea leaves substantially increases the toxic risks of tea consumption. Botanic fungicide isobavachalcone (IBC) has the potential to control fungal diseases on many crops but has not been used on tea plants. In this study, the field control effects of IBC were evaluated by comparison and in combination with natural elicitor chitosan oligosaccharides (COSs) and the chemical pesticide pyraclostrobin (Py), and the preliminary action mode of IBC was also investigated. The bioassay results for IBC or its combination with COSs showed a remarkable control effect against BB (61.72% and 70.46%). IBC, like COSs, could improve the disease resistance of tea plants by enhancing the activity of tea-plant-related defense enzymes, including polyphenol oxidase (PPO), catalase (CAT), phenylalanine aminolase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), β-1,3-glucanase (Glu), and chitinase enzymes. The fungal community structure and diversity of the diseased tea leaves were examined using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal rDNA genes. It was obvious that IBC could significantly alter the species’ richness and the diversity of the fungal community in affected plant sites. This study broadens the application range of IBC and provides an important strategy for the control of BB disease.
TgMORN2, a MORN Family Protein Involved in the Regulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Li Jinxuan , Xiao Qianqian , Tan Qianqian , Chen Junpeng , Sun Lingyu , Chen Xiao , Chu Ziyu , Wu Hongxia , Zhang Zhenzhao , Li Hongmei , Zhao Xiaomin , Zhang Xiao
Published: June 2023

MORN proteins play a key role in the cytoskeletal structure of eukaryotes and are essential for the close arrangement of the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane. A gene with nine MORN motifs (TGGT1_292120, named TgMORN2) was identified in the Toxoplasma gondii genome; it was presumed to belong to the MORN protein family and to have the function of forming the cytoskeleton, which affects the survival of T. gondii. However, the genetic deletion of MORN2 did not noticeably affect parasite growth and virulence. Using adjacent protein labeling techniques, we identified a network of TgMORN2 interactions, which mainly included endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress)-related proteins. In exploring these data, we found that the pathogenicity of the KO-TgMORN2 strain was significantly reduced in the case of tunicamycin-induced ER stress. Reticulon TgRTN (TGGT1_226430) and tubulin β-Tubulin were identified as interaction proteins of TgMORN2. Collectively, TgMORN2 plays a role in ER stress, which lays a foundation for further research on the function of the MORN protein in T. gondii.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Based on Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) and Its Integration into Nanomedicine and Microfluidic Devices as Point-of-Care Testing (POCT)
Authors: Dorta-Gorrín Alexis , Navas-Méndez Jesús , Gozalo-Margüello Mónica , Miralles Laura , García-Hevia Lorena
Published: June 2023

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has highlighted the criticality of an accurate and rapid diagnosis in order to contain the spread of the virus. Knowledge of the viral structure and its genome is essential for diagnosis development. The virus is still quickly evolving and the global scenario could easily change. Thus, a greater range of diagnostic options is essential to face this threat to public health. In response to the global demand, there has been a rapid advancement in the understanding of current diagnostic methods. In fact, innovative approaches have emerged, leveraging the benefits of nanomedicine and microfluidic technologies. Although this development has been incredibly fast, several key areas require further investigation and optimization, such as sample collection and preparation, assay optimization and sensitivity, cost effectiveness, scalability device miniaturization, and portability and integration with smartphones. Addressing these gaps in the knowledge and these technological challenges will contribute to the development of reliable, sensitive, and user-friendly NAAT-based POCTs for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious diseases, facilitating rapid and effective patient management. This review aims to provide an overview of current SARS-CoV-2 detection methods based on nucleic acid detection tests (NAATs). Additionally, it explores promising approaches that combine nanomedicine and microfluidic devices with high sensitivity and relatively fast ‘time to answer’ for integration into point-of-care testing (POCT).
Hif1α/Dhrs3a Pathway Participates in Lipid Droplet Accumulation via Retinol and Ppar-γ in Fish Hepatocytes
Authors: Tian Jingjing , Du Yihui , Wang Binbin , Ji Mengmeng , Li Hongyan , Xia Yun , Zhang Kai , Li Zhifei , Xie Wenping , Gong Wangbao , Yu Ermeng , Wang Guangjun , Xie Jun
Published: June 2023

Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation is a common phenomenon in cultured fish; however, its underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Lipid droplet (LD)-related proteins play vital roles in LD accumulation. Herein, using a zebrafish liver cell line (ZFL), we show that LD accumulation is accompanied by differential expression of seven LD-annotated genes, among which the expression of dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR family) member 3 a/b (dhrs3a/b) increased synchronously. RNAi-mediated knockdown of dhrs3a delayed LD accumulation and downregulated the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (pparg) in cells incubated with fatty acids. Notably, Dhrs3 catalyzed retinene to retinol, the content of which increased in LD-enriched cells. The addition of exogenous retinyl acetate maintained LD accumulation only in cells incubated in a lipid-rich medium. Correspondingly, exogenous retinyl acetate significantly increased pparg mRNA expression levels and altered the lipidome of the cells by increasing the phosphatidylcholine and triacylglycerol contents and decreasing the cardiolipin, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylserine contents. Administration of LW6, an hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) inhibitor, reduced the size and number of LDs in ZFL cells and attenuated hif1αa, hif1αb, dhrs3a, and pparg mRNA expression levels. We propose that the Hif-1α/Dhrs3a pathway participates in LD accumulation in hepatocytes, which induces retinol formation and the Ppar-γ pathway.
l-Alanine Exporter AlaE Functions as One of the d-Alanine Exporters in Escherichia coli
Authors: Katsube Satoshi , Sakai Keiichiro , Ando Tasuke , Tobe Ryuta , Yoneyama Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

d-amino acids have recently been found to be present in the extracellular milieu at millimolar levels and are therefore assumed to play a physiological function. However, the pathway (or potential pathways) by which these d-amino acids are secreted remains unknown. Recently, Escherichia coli has been found to possess one or more energy-dependent d-alanine export systems. To gain insight into these systems, we developed a novel screening system in which cells expressing a putative d-alanine exporter could support the growth of d-alanine auxotrophs in the presence of l-alanyl–l-alanine. In the initial screening, five d-alanine exporter candidates, AlaE, YmcD, YciC, YraM, and YidH, were identified. Transport assays of radiolabeled d-alanine in cells expressing these candidates indicated that YciC and AlaE resulted in lower intracellular levels of d-alanine. Further detailed transport assays of AlaE in intact cells showed that it exports d-alanine in an expression-dependent manner. In addition, the growth constraints on cells in the presence of 90 mM d-alanine were mitigated by the overexpression of AlaE, implying that AlaE could export free d-alanine in addition to l-alanine under conditions in which intracellular d/l-alanine levels are raised. This study also shows, for the first time, that YciC could function as a d-alanine exporter in intact cells.
Strontium Attenuates Hippocampal Damage via Suppressing Neuroinflammation in High-Fat Diet-Induced NAFLD Mice
Authors: Wang Shuai , Zeng Fangyuan , Ma Yue , Yu Jiaojiao , Xiang Chenyao , Feng Xiao , Wang Songlin , Wang Jianguo , Zhao Shanting , Zhu Xiaoyan
Published: June 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) leads to hippocampal damage and causes a variety of physiopathological responses, including the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), neuroinflammation, and alterations in synaptic plasticity. As an important trace element, strontium (Sr) has been reported to have antioxidant effects, to have anti-inflammatory effects, and to cause the inhibition of adipogenesis. The present study was undertaken to investigate the protective effects of Sr on hippocampal damage in NAFLD mice in order to elucidate the underlying mechanism of Sr in NAFLD. The mouse model of NAFLD was established by feeding mice a high-fat diet (HFD), and the mice were treated with Sr. In the NAFLD mice, we found that treatment with Sr significantly increased the density of c-Fos+ cells in the hippocampus and inhibited the expression of caspase-3 by suppressing ERS. Surprisingly, the induction of neuroinflammation and the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus following an HFD were attenuated by Sr treatment. Sr significantly attenuated the activation of microglia and astrocytes induced by an HFD. The expression of phospho-p38, ERK, and NF-κB was consistently significantly increased in the HFD group, and treatment with Sr decreased their expression. Moreover, Sr prevented HFD-induced damage to the ultra-structural synaptic architecture. This study implies that Sr has beneficial effects on repairing the damage to the hippocampus induced by an HFD, revealing that Sr could be a potential candidate for protection from neural damage caused by NAFLD.
Enhancing Container Vessel Arrival Time Prediction through Past Voyage Route Modeling: A Case Study of Busan New Port
Authors: Yoon Jeong-Hyun , Kim Dong-Ham , Yun Sang-Woong , Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Sewon
Published: June 2023

Container terminals are at the center of global logistics, and are highly dependent on the schedule of vessels arriving. Conventional ETA records from ships, utilized for terminal berth planning, lack sufficient accuracy for effective plan implementation. Thus, there is a pressing need for improved ETA prediction methods. In this research, we propose a novel approach that leverages past voyage route patterns to predict the ETA of container vessels arriving at a container terminal at Busan New Port, South Korea. By modeling representative paths based on previous ports of call, the method employs real-time position and speed data from the Automatic Identification System (AIS) to predict vessel arrival times. By inputting AIS data into segmented representative routes, optimal parameters yielding minimal ETA errors for each vessel are determined. The algorithm’s performance evaluation during the modeling period demonstrates its effectiveness, achieving an average Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of approximately 3 h and 14 min. These results surpass the accuracy of existing ETA data, such as ETA in the Terminal Operating System and ETA in the AIS of a vessel, indicating the algorithm’s superiority in ETA estimation. Furthermore, the algorithm consistently outperforms the existing ETA benchmarks during the evaluation period, confirming its enhanced accuracy.
Safety-Guaranteed, Robust, Nonlinear, Path-Following Control of the Underactuated Hovercraft Based on FTESO
Authors: Fu Mingyu , Wang Qiusu
Published: June 2023

On account of the external disturbances and difficult maneuverability of a hovercraft, this paper devises a safety-guaranteed, robust, nonlinear, path-following control strategy of a hovercraft targeted for unknown dynamics, unavailable velocity, and unknown external ocean disturbances. Firstly, for the sake of accurately observing unavailable lumped disturbances and unavailable velocity measurements, a finite-time extended state observer (FTESO) is proposed. Secondly, a line-of-sight (LOS) guidance law constructed with a bounded-gain-forgetting (BGF) adaptive estimator is devised to follow the desired path while considering external environmental disturbances accurately, in which the tracking errors and the parameter estimation are both proven to be bounded. In addition, for the sake of safety, a safety-guaranteed auxiliary system that can constrain the drift angle during the hovercraft’s navigation is proposed. Thirdly, the robust, nonlinear, path-following controllers achieved high tracking performance with the constructed safety-guaranteed compensation backstepping method. Finally, according to the Lyapunov and homogeneous theories, the observation error can be guaranteed to zero and the tracking error can converge to an arbitrarily small region near zero in finite time. Numerical simulations illustrate the effectiveness for the proposed robust, nonlinear, path-following scheme.
Path Following of an Underwater Snake-like Robot Exposed to Ocean Currents and Locomotion Efficiency Optimization Based on Multi-Strategy Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm
Authors: Liu Jing , Zhu Haitao , Chen Yan , Bao Han
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we propose a cubic spline interpolation method to generate a desired curve path and present an integral line of sight (ILOS) method and a control strategy for course tracking control based on nonsingular terminal sliding mode to enable an underwater snake-like robot (USR) to move towards and follow the path generated by the parametric cubic-spline interpolation (PCSI) path-planning method, while considering the disturbances caused by ocean currents. The efficiency of robot locomotion is an important evaluation criterion for robot design. Thus, we introduce a multi-strategy improved sparrow search algorithm (MISSA) to dynamically choose gait parameters that significantly enhance the efficiency of robot movement. We conduct simulations to demonstrate that the proposed controller enables the USR, subjected to ocean currents, to accurately converge towards and follow the target path. Our results also reveal that MISSA effectively enhances the locomotion efficiency of the robot.
Wind Speed Analysis Method within WRF-ARW Tropical Cyclone Modeling
Authors: Poplavsky Evgeny , Kuznetsova Alexandra , Troitskaya Yuliya
Published: June 2023

This paper presents an analysis of a new method for retrieving the parameters of the atmospheric boundary layer in hurricanes. This method is based on the approximation of the upper parabolic part of the wind speed profile and the retrieval of the lower logarithmic part. Based on the logarithmic part, the friction velocity, near-surface wind speed and the aerodynamic drag coefficient are obtained. The obtained data are used for the verification of the modeling data in the WRF-ARW model. The case of the Irma hurricane is studied. Different configurations of the model are tested, which differ in the use of physical parameterizations. The difference of wind profiles in various sectors of the hurricane is studied.
Tribological, Oxidation and Thermal Analysis of Advanced Microwave–Hydrothermal Synthesised Ti3C2Tx MXene as Additives in Outboard Engine Oil
Authors: Zaharin Haizum Aimi , Ghazali Mariyam Jameelah , Khalid Mohammad , Nagarajan Thachnatharen , Pin Wong Weng , Ezzah Farah , Gerard Ong , Walvekar Rashmi , Rasheed Abdul Khaliq
Published: June 2023

In today’s fast, globalised world, lubrication has become essential in enhancing engine efficiency, including in the marine sector. While the number of fishing vessels increased, so did the environmental pollution issues, due to inefficient engines. An outboard engine oil’s tribological, oxidation and thermal conductivity behaviour play a crucial role in improving the quality of an outboard engine’s life. In this research, Ti3C2Tx MXene nanoparticles with different interlayer spacing were synthesised via an advanced microwave–hydrothermal approach. Later, the nanoparticles were dispersed in TC-W outboard engine oil to formulate the Ti3C2Tx MXene nanolubricant with different concentrations. The results show that nanolubricant with a 0.01 wt.% Ti3C2Tx MXene concentration with higher interlayer spacing reduced the coefficient of friction, and the average wear scar diameter by 14.5% and 6.3%, respectively, compared to the base oil. Furthermore, the nanolubricant with a 0.01 wt.% concentration of the Ti3C2Tx MXene nanoparticle showed an improvement of 54.8% in oxidation induction time compared to the base oil. In addition, MXene nanolubricant established a more than 50% improvement in thermal conductivity compared to the base oil.
Annual Plants and Thermoplastics in the Production of Polymer and Lignocellulose Boards
Authors: Banaszak Aleksandra , Woźniak Magdalena , Dziurka Dorota , Mirski Radosław
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of three-layer particleboards produced from annual plant straws and three polymers: polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polylactic acid (PLA). The rape straw (Brassica napus L. var. Napus) was used as an internal layer, while rye (Secale L.) or triticale (Triticosecale Witt.) was applied as an external layer in the obtained particleboards. The boards were tested for their density, thickness swelling, static bending strength, modulus of elasticity, and thermal degradation characteristics. Moreover, the changes in the structure of composites were determined by infrared spectroscopy. Among the straw-based boards with the addition of tested polymers, satisfactory properties were obtained mainly using HDPE. In turn, the straw-based composites with PP were characterized by moderate properties, while PLA-containing boards did not show clearly favorable properties either in terms of the mechanical or physical features. The properties of straw–polymer boards produced based on triticale straw were slightly better than those of the rye-based boards, probably due to the geometry of the strands, which was more favorable for triticale straw. The obtained results indicated that annual plant fibers, mainly triticale, can be used as wood substitutes for the production of biocomposites. Moreover, the addition of polymers allows for the use of the obtained boards in conditions of increased humidity.
Preparation and Functionalization of Polymers with Antibacterial Properties—Review of the Recent Developments
Authors: Parcheta Monika , Sobiesiak Magdalena
Published: June 2023

The presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in our environment is a matter of growing concern. Consumption of contaminated drinking water or contaminated fruit or vegetables can provoke ailments and even diseases, mainly in the digestive system. In this work, we present the latest data on the ability to remove bacteria from potable water and wastewater. The article discusses the mechanisms of the antibacterial activity of polymers, consisting of the electrostatic interaction between bacterial cells and the surface of natural and synthetic polymers functionalized with metal cations (polydopamine modified with silver nanoparticles, starch modified with quaternary ammonium or halogenated benzene). The synergistic effect of polymers (N-alkylaminated chitosan, silver doped polyoxometalate, modified poly(aspartic acid)) with antibiotics has also been described, allowing for precise targeting of drugs to infected cells as a preventive measure against the excessive spread of antibiotics, leading to drug resistance among bacteria. Cationic polymers, polymers obtained from essential oils (EOs), or natural polymers modified with organic acids are promising materials in the removal of harmful bacteria. Antimicrobial polymers are successfully used as biocides due to their acceptable toxicity, low production costs, chemical stability, and high adsorption capacity thanks to multi-point attachment to microorganisms. New achievements in the field of polymer surface modification in order to impart antimicrobial properties were summarized.
High-Temperature Behavior of Laser Electrodispersion-Prepared Pd/ZSM-5 Hydrocarbon Traps under CO Oxidation Conditions
Authors: Rostovshchikova Tatiana N. , Shilina Marina I. , Maslakov Konstantin I. , Gurevich Sergey A. , Yavsin Denis A. , Veselov Grigory B. , Stoyanovskii Vladimir O. , Vedyagin Aleksey A.
Published: June 2023

Zeolites and metal-doped zeolites are now widely considered as low-temperature hydrocarbon traps to be a part of emission control systems in automobiles. However, due to the high temperature of exhaust gases, the thermal stability of such sorbent materials is of great concern. To avoid the thermal instability problem, in the present work, laser electrodispersion was used to deposit Pd particles on the surface of ZSM-5 zeolite grains (SiO2/Al2O3 = 55 and SiO2/Al2O3 = 30) to obtain Pd/ZSM-5 materials with a Pd loading as low as 0.03 wt.%. The thermal stability was evaluated in a prompt thermal aging regime involving thermal treatment at temperatures up to 1000 °C in a real reaction mixture (CO, hydrocarbons, NO, an excess of O2, and balance N2) and a model mixture of the same composition with the exception of hydrocarbons. Low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and X-ray diffraction analysis were used to examine the stability of the zeolite framework. Special attention was paid to the state of Pd after thermal aging at varied temperatures. By means of transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance UV–Vis spectroscopy, it was shown that palladium, having been initially located on the surface of zeolite, undergoes oxidation and migrates into the zeolite’s channels. This enhances the trapping of hydrocarbons and their subsequent oxidation at lower temperatures.
Effect of Temperature on S32750 Duplex Steel Welded Joint Impact Toughness
Authors: Perković Srđa , Sedmak Aleksandar , Radaković Zoran , Burzić Zijah , Sedmak Simon , Radović Ljubica , Mandić Jovana
Published: June 2023

The search for alternative materials that can be used for parts of aircraft hydraulic systems has led to the idea of applying S32750 duplex steel for this purpose. This steel is mainly used in the oil and gas, chemical, and food industries. The reasons for this lie in this material’s exceptional welding, mechanical, and corrosion resistance properties. In order to verify this material’s suitability for aircraft engineering applications, it is necessary to investigate its behaviour at various temperatures since aircrafts operate at a wide range of temperatures. For this reason, the effect of temperatures in the range from +20 °C to −80 °C on impact toughness was investigated in the case of S32750 duplex steel and its welded joints. Testing was performed using an instrumented pendulum to obtain force–time and energy–time diagrams, which allowed for more detailed assessment of the effect of testing temperature on total impact energy and its components of crack initiation energy and crack propagation energy. Testing was performed on standard Charpy specimens extracted from base metal (BM), welded metal (WM), and the heat-affected zone (HAZ). The results of these tests indicated high values of both crack initiation and propagation energies at room temperature for all the zones (BM, WM, and HAZ) and sufficient levels of crack propagation and total impact energies above −50 °C. In addition, fractography was conducted through optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicating ductile vs. cleavage fracture surface areas, which corresponded well with the impact toughness values. The results of this research confirm that the use of S32750 duplex steel in the manufacturing of aircraft hydraulic systems has considerable potential, and future work should confirm this.
The Longest (s, t)-Path Problem on O-Shaped Supergrid Graphs
Authors: Keshavarz-Kohjerdi Fatemeh , Hung Ruo-Wei
Published: June 2023

The longest (s,t)-path problem on supergrid graphs is known to be NP-complete. However, the complexity of this problem on supergrid graphs with or without holes is still unknown.In the past, we presented linear-time algorithms for solving the longest (s,t)-path problem on L-shaped and C-shaped supergrid graphs, which form subclasses of supergrid graphs without holes. In this paper, we will determine the complexity of the longest (s,t)-path problem on O-shaped supergrid graphs, which form a subclass of supergrid graphs with holes. These graphs are rectangular supergrid graphs with rectangular holes. It is worth noting that O-shaped supergrid graphs contain L-shaped and C-shaped supergrid graphs as subgraphs, but there is no inclusion relationship between them. We will propose a linear-time algorithm to solve the longest (s,t)-path problem on O-shaped supergrid graphs. The longest (s,t)-paths of O-shaped supergrid graphs have applications in calculating the minimum trace when printing hollow objects using computer embroidery machines and 3D printers.