bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals That WSSV IE1 Protein Plays a Crucial Role in DNA Replication Control
Authors: Chen Yixi , Wu Gaochun , Wang Chuanqi , Zhang Huimin , Zhu Jinghua , Zhang Yueling , Lin Zhongyang , Yao Defu
Published: July 2022

For DNA viruses, the immediate-early (IE) proteins are generally essential regulators that manipulate the host machinery to support viral replication. Recently, IE1, an IE protein encoded by white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), has been demonstrated to function as a transcription factor. However, the target genes of IE1 during viral infection remain poorly understood. Here, we explored the host target genes of IE1 using RNAi coupled with transcriptome sequencing analysis. A total of 429 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from penaeid shrimp, of which 284 genes were upregulated and 145 genes were downregulated after IE1 knockdown. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed the identified DEGs are significantly enriched in the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) complex and DNA replication, indicating that IE1 plays a critical role in DNA replication control. In addition, it was found that Penaeus vannamei MCM complex genes were remarkably upregulated after WSSV infection, while RNAi-mediated knockdown of PvMCM2 reduced the expression of viral genes and viral loads at the early infection stage. Finally, we demonstrated that overexpression of IE1 promoted the expression of MCM complex genes as well as cellular DNA synthesis in insect High-Five cells. Collectively, our current data suggest that the WSSV IE1 protein is a viral effector that modulates the host DNA replication machinery for viral replication.
New Insights into the Role of Insulin and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Janssen Joseph A. M. J. L.
Published: July 2022

Recent data suggests that (pre)diabetes onset is preceded by a period of hyperinsulinemia. Consumption of the “modern” Western diet, over-nutrition, genetic background, decreased hepatic insulin clearance, and fetal/metabolic programming may increase insulin secretion, thereby causing chronic hyperinsulinemia. Hyperinsulinemia is an important etiological factor in the development of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease. Recent data suggests that the onset of prediabetes and diabetes are preceded by a variable period of hyperinsulinemia. Emerging data suggest that chromic hyperinsulinemia is also a driving force for increased activation of the hypothalamic-adrenal-pituitary (HPA) axis in subjects with the metabolic syndrome, leading to a state of “functional hypercortisolism”. This “functional hypercortisolism” by antagonizing insulin actions may prevent hypoglycemia. It also disturbs energy balance by shifting energy fluxes away from muscles toward abdominal fat stores. Synergistic effects of hyperinsulinemia and “functional hypercortisolism” promote abdominal visceral obesity and insulin resistance which are core pathophysiological components of the metabolic syndrome. It is hypothesized that hyperinsulinemia-induced increased activation of the HPA axis plays an important etiological role in the development of the metabolic syndrome and its consequences. Numerous studies have demonstrated reversibility of hyperinsulinemia with lifestyle, surgical, and pharmaceutical-based therapies. Longitudinal studies should be performed to investigate whether strategies that reduce hyperinsulinemia at an early stage are successfully in preventing increased activation of the HPA axis and the metabolic syndrome.
Regenerative Strategies for Retinal Neurons: Novel Insights in Non-Mammalian Model Organisms
Authors: Catalani Elisabetta , Cherubini Agnese , Del Quondam Simona , Cervia Davide
Published: July 2022

A detailed knowledge of the status of the retina in neurodegenerative conditions is a crucial point for the development of therapeutics in retinal pathologies and to translate eye research to CNS disease. In this context, manipulating signaling pathways that lead to neuronal regeneration offers an excellent opportunity to substitute damaged cells and, thus, restore the tissue functionality. Alternative systems and methods are increasingly being considered to replace/reduce in vivo approaches in the study of retina pathophysiology. Herein, we present recent data obtained from the zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster that bring promising advantages into studying and modeling, at a preclinical level, neurodegeneration and regenerative approaches in retinal diseases. Indeed, the regenerative ability of vertebrate model zebrafish is particularly appealing. In addition, the fruit fly is ideal for regenerative studies due to its high degree of conservation with vertebrates and the broad spectrum of genetic variants achievable. Furthermore, a large part of the drosophila brain is dedicated to sight, thus offering the possibility of studying common mechanisms of the visual system and the brain at once. The knowledge acquired from these alternative models may help to investigate specific well-conserved factors of interest in human neuroregeneration after injuries or during pathologies.
Retinal Toxicity Induced by Chemical Agents
Authors: Souza Monteiro de Araújo Daniel , Brito Rafael , Pereira-Figueiredo Danniel , dos Santos-Rodrigues Alexandre , De Logu Francesco , Nassini Romina , Zin Andrea , Calaza Karin C.
Published: July 2022

Vision is an important sense for humans, and visual impairment/blindness has a huge impact in daily life. The retina is a nervous tissue that is essential for visual processing since it possesses light sensors (photoreceptors) and performs a pre-processing of visual information. Thus, retinal cell dysfunction or degeneration affects visual ability and several general aspects of the day-to-day of a person’s lives. The retina has a blood–retinal barrier, which protects the tissue from a wide range of molecules or microorganisms. However, several agents, coming from systemic pathways, reach the retina and influence its function and survival. Pesticides are still used worldwide for agriculture, contaminating food with substances that could reach the retina. Natural products have also been used for therapeutic purposes and are another group of substances that can get to the retina. Finally, a wide number of medicines administered for different diseases can also affect the retina. The present review aimed to gather recent information about the hazard of these products to the retina, which could be used to encourage the search for more healthy, suitable, or less risky agents.
Actions of Esomeprazole on the Maternal Vasculature in Lean and Obese Pregnant Mice with Impaired Nitric Oxide Synthesis: A Model of Preeclampsia
Authors: de Alwis Natasha , Binder Natalie K. , Mangwiro Yeukai T. M. , Beard Sally , Pritchard Natasha , Kadife Elif , Fato Bianca R. , Keenan Emerson , Brownfoot Fiona C. , Kaitu’u-Lino Tu’uhevaha J. , Hannan Natalie J.
Published: July 2022

Preeclampsia is a devastating, multisystem disorder of pregnancy. It has no cure except delivery, which if premature can impart significant neonatal morbidity. Efforts to repurpose pregnancy-safe therapeutics for the treatment of preeclampsia have led to the assessment of the proton pump inhibitor, esomeprazole. Preclinically, esomeprazole reduced placental secretion of anti-angiogenic sFlt-1, improved endothelial dysfunction, promoted vasorelaxation, and reduced maternal hypertension in a mouse model. Our understanding of the precise mechanisms through which esomeprazole works to reduce endothelial dysfunction and enhance vasoreactivity is limited. Evidence from earlier studies suggested esomeprazole might work via the nitric oxide pathway, upregulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Here, we investigated the effect of esomeprazole in a mouse model of L-NAME-induced hypertension (decreased eNOS activity). We further antagonised the model by addition of diet-induced obesity, which is relevant to both preeclampsia and the nitric oxide pathway. Esomeprazole did not decrease blood pressure in this model, nor were there any alterations in vasoreactivity or changes in foetal outcomes in lean mice. We observed similar findings in the obese mouse cohort, except esomeprazole treatment enhanced ex vivo acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation. As acetylcholine induces nitric oxide production, these findings hint at a function for esomeprazole in the nitric oxide pathway.
3D Printed Solutions for Spheroid Engineering and Cancer Research
Authors: Butelmann Tobias , Gu Yawei , Li Aijun , Tribukait-Riemenschneider Fabian , Hoffmann Julius , Molazem Amin , Jaeger Ellen , Pellegrini Diana , Forget Aurelien , Shastri V. Prasad
Published: July 2022

In multicellular organisms, cells are organized in a 3-dimensional framework and this is essential for organogenesis and tissue morphogenesis. Systems to recapitulate 3D cell growth are therefore vital for understanding development and cancer biology. Cells organized in 3D environments can evolve certain phenotypic traits valuable to physiologically relevant models that cannot be accessed in 2D culture. Cellular spheroids constitute an important aspect of in vitro tumor biology and they are usually prepared using the hanging drop method. Here a 3D printed approach is demonstrated to fabricate bespoke hanging drop devices for the culture of tumor cells. The design attributes of the hanging drop device take into account the need for high-throughput, high efficacy in spheroid formation, and automation. Specifically, in this study, custom-fit, modularized hanging drop devices comprising of inserts (Q-serts) were designed and fabricated using fused filament deposition (FFD). The utility of the Q-serts in the engineering of unicellular and multicellular spheroids-synthetic tumor microenvironment mimics (STEMs)—was established using human (cancer) cells. The culture of spheroids was automated using a pipetting robot and bioprinted using a custom bioink based on carboxylated agarose to simulate a tumor microenvironment (TME). The spheroids were characterized using light microscopy and histology. They showed good morphological and structural integrity and had high viability throughout the entire workflow. The systems and workflow presented here represent a user-focused 3D printing-driven spheroid culture platform which can be reliably reproduced in any research environment and scaled to- and on-demand. The standardization of spheroid preparation, handling, and culture should eliminate user-dependent variables, and have a positive impact on translational research to enable direct comparison of scientific findings.
Toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis Strains Derived from the Novel Crystal Protein Cry31Aa with High Nematicidal Activity against Rice Parasitic Nematode Aphelenchoides besseyi
Authors: Liang Zhao , Ali Qurban , Wang Yujie , Mu Guangyuan , Kan Xuefei , Ren Yajun , Manghwar Hakim , Gu Qin , Wu Huijun , Gao Xuewen
Published: July 2022

The plant parasitic nematode, Aphelenchoides besseyi, is a serious pest causing severe damage to various crop plants and vegetables. The Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) strains, GBAC46 and NMTD81, and the biological strain, FZB42, showed higher nematicidal activity against A. besseyi, by up to 88.80, 82.65, and 75.87%, respectively, in a 96-well plate experiment. We screened the whole genomes of the selected strains by protein-nucleic acid alignment. It was found that the Bt strain GBAC46 showed three novel crystal proteins, namely, Cry31Aa, Cry73Aa, and Cry40ORF, which likely provide for the safe control of nematodes. The Cry31Aa protein was composed of 802 amino acids with a molecular weight of 90.257 kDa and contained a conserved delta-endotoxin insecticidal domain. The Cry31Aa exhibited significant nematicidal activity against A. besseyi with a lethal concentration (LC50) value of 131.80 μg/mL. Furthermore, the results of in vitro experiments (i.e., rhodamine and propidium iodide (PI) experiments) revealed that the Cry31Aa protein was taken up by A. besseyi, which caused damage to the nematode’s intestinal cell membrane, indicating that the Cry31Aa produced a pore-formation toxin. In pot experiments, the selected strains GBAC46, NMTD81, and FZB42 significantly reduced the lesions on leaves by up to 33.56%, 45.66, and 30.34% and also enhanced physiological growth parameters such as root length (65.10, 50.65, and 55.60%), shoot length (68.10, 55.60, and 59.45%), and plant fresh weight (60.71, 56.45, and 55.65%), respectively. The number of nematodes obtained from the plants treated with the selected strains (i.e., GBAC46, NMTD81, and FZB42) and A. besseyi was significantly reduced, with 0.56, 0.83., 1.11, and 5.04 seedling mL−1 nematodes were achieved, respectively. Moreover, the qRT-PCR analysis showed that the defense-related genes were upregulated, and the activity of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) increased while malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased in rice leaves compared to the control. Therefore, it was concluded that the Bt strains GBAC46 and NMTD81 can promote rice growth, induce high expression of rice defense-related genes, and activate systemic resistance in rice. More importantly, the application of the novel Cry31Aa protein has high potential for the efficient and safe prevention and green control of plant parasitic nematodes.
Antitumor Effects of Ral-GTPases Downregulation in Glioblastoma
Authors: Cemeli Tània , Guasch-Vallés Marta , Ribes-Santolaria Marina , Ibars Eva , Navaridas Raúl , Dolcet Xavier , Pedraza Neus , Colomina Neus , Torres-Rosell Jordi , Ferrezuelo Francisco , Herreros Judit , Garí Eloi
Published: July 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common tumor in the central nervous system in adults. This neoplasia shows a high capacity of growth and spreading to the surrounding brain tissue, hindering its complete surgical resection. Therefore, the finding of new antitumor therapies for GBM treatment is a priority. We have previously described that cyclin D1-CDK4 promotes GBM dissemination through the activation of the small GTPases RalA and RalB. In this paper, we show that RalB GTPase is upregulated in primary GBM cells. We found that the downregulation of Ral GTPases, mainly RalB, prevents the proliferation of primary GBM cells and triggers a senescence-like response. Moreover, downregulation of RalA and RalB reduces the viability of GBM cells growing as tumorspheres, suggesting a possible role of these GTPases in the survival of GBM stem cells. By using mouse subcutaneous xenografts, we have corroborated the role of RalB in GBM growth in vivo. Finally, we have observed that the knockdown of RalB also inhibits cell growth in temozolomide-resistant GBM cells. Overall, our work shows that GBM cells are especially sensitive to Ral-GTPase availability. Therefore, we propose that the inactivation of Ral-GTPases may be a reliable therapeutic approach to prevent GBM progression and recurrence.
Contribution of a Seeded Cover Crop Mixture on Biomass Production and Nutrition Status Compared to Natural Vegetation in a Mediterranean Olive Grove
Authors: Tul Safiye , Manolikaki Ioanna , Digalaki Nektaria , Psarras Georgios , Koufakis Ioannis , Kalaitzaki Argyro , Sergentani Chrysi , Koubouris Georgios
Published: July 2022

Intensive agricultural management practices (i.e., the burning of pruning residues, the absence of organic amendments) lead to a reduction in organic matter and nutrients in the soil resulting in agroecosystem vulnerability. Implementing a cover crop would provide soil organic matter while increasing nutrition levels in the soil. A mixture of cover crop trial in sandy loam soils under Mediterranean climatic conditions was conducted in a rainfed olive grove in Western Crete. In this study, the dry biomass, macro- and micronutrition, and carbon status of the seeded cover crops (legume and grass) were compared to natural plants in an olive grove. Seeded cover crops were conducted in two sustainable management systems (cover crops solely, and a combination of compost, pruning residues, and cover crops); natural plants were in a conventional system involving soil tillage. In combination with conservation tillage practices, the addition of carbon inputs may improve soil fertility. Results indicate that the dry biomass production and C content of cover crops under sustainable management systems was significantly higher than that of the control. The higher dry biomass production and C content found in cover crops compared to the natural vegetation indicates not only that this type of management provides enhanced carbon storage, but can also potentially lead to a future increase in soil organic matter through decomposition. Higher dry biomass is important in the context of carbon sequestration, and cover crops facilitated carbon storage in this study. In addition, this study suggests that sustainable agricultural management practices would provide significant benefits in terms of nutrient retention and CO2 fixation, thus improving ecosystems in Mediterranean countries.
New Carboxylate Anionic Sm-MOF: Synthesis, Structure and Effect of the Isomorphic Substitution of Sm3+ with Gd3+ and Tb3+ Ions on the Luminescent Properties
Authors: Ivanova Anna A. , Gontcharenko Victoria E. , Lunev Alexey M. , Sidoruk Anastasia V. , Arkhipov Ilya A. , Taydakov Ilya V. , Belousov Yuriy A.
Published: July 2022

Two new compounds, namely {(NMe2H2)}[Ln(TDA)(HCOO)] 0.5H2O, Ln = Sm3+ (Sm-TDA) and Gd3+ (Gd-TDA), where TDA3− is the anion of 1H-1,2,3-triazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid (H3TDA), were synthesized by the solvothermal method in a DMF:H2O mixture. According to single-crystal X-ray diffraction data, the compounds are 3d-MOFs with an anionic lattice and dimethylammonium cations occupying part of the cavities. Based on these compounds, two series of mixed-metal complexes, [NMe2H2][SmxLn1-x(TDA)(HCOO)], (x = 0.9 (Sm0.9Ln0.1-TDA), x = 0.8 (Sm0.8-Ln0.2-TDA)…Sm0.02Ln0.98-TDA, Ln = Tb, Gd), were also obtained and characterized by powder XRD. The luminescent properties of the compounds were studied and it was shown that the resulting compounds are two- or three-component emitters with the possibility of fine color tuning by changing the intensities of fluorescence and phosphorescence of the ligand, as well as the luminescence of Sm3+ and Tb3+ f-ions.
Ulva pertusa, a Marine Green Alga, Attenuates DNBS-Induced Colitis Damage via NF-κB/Nrf2/SIRT1 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Ardizzone Alessio , Filippone Alessia , Mannino Deborah , Scuderi Sarah Adriana , Casili Giovanna , Lanza Marika , Cucinotta Laura , Campolo Michela , Esposito Emanuela
Published: July 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) represent gastrointestinal (GI) disorders associated with varied responses to microbial and environmental agents. Natural compounds have been suggested as a valid approach to the management of various GI diseases, particularly the green alga Ulva pertusa, belonging to the Ulvaceae family, which showed powerful biological properties. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect and the mechanism of Ulva pertusa treatments in a murine model of DNBS-induced colitis. Colitis was induced by DNBS intrarectal installation (4 mg in 100 μL of 50% ethanol), while Ulva pertusa treatments (doses of 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg) were administered orally daily. Ulva pertusa, at the higher doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, significantly reduced tissue damage DNBS-induced and the consequent inflammatory cascade via NF-κB inhibition. Furthermore, we demonstrated, for the first time, Ulva pertusa action on the SIRT1/Nrf2 axis, enhancing antioxidant response and the modulation of the apoptosis pathway colitis-induced, regulating the expression of p53, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspases. Taken together, Ulva pertusa could be considered a valid approach for counteracting and blocking the progression of IBDs through modulation of the NF-κB/SIRT1/Nrf2 axis.
Improvements throughout the Three Waves of COVID-19 Pandemic: Results from 4 Million Inhabitants of North-West Italy
Authors: Caramello Valeria , Catalano Alberto , Macciotta Alessandra , Dansero Lucia , Sacerdote Carlotta , Costa Giuseppe , Aprà Franco , Tua Aldo , Boccuzzi Adriana , Ricceri Fulvio
Published: July 2022

At the very beginning of the European spread of SARS-CoV-2, Piedmont was one of the most affected regions in Italy, with a strong impact on healthcare organizations. In this study, we evaluated the characteristics and outcomes of the COVID-19 patients in an entire region during the first three pandemic waves, identifying similarities and differences in the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic’s timeline. We collected the health-administrative data of all the Piedmont COVID-19 patients infected during the first three pandemic waves (1 March 2020–15 April 2020; 15 October 2020–15 December 2020; 1 March 2021–15 April 2021, respectively). We compared differences among the waves in subjects positive for SARS-CoV-2 and in patients admitted to ICU. Overall, 18.621 subjects tested positive during the first wave (405 patients/day), 144.350 (2366.4 patients/day) in the second, and 81.823 (1778.8 patients/day) in the third. In the second and third waves, we observed a reduction in median age, comorbidity burden, mortality in outpatients, inpatients, and patients admitted to ICU, in intubation, invasive ventilation and tracheostomy, and a parallel increase in the use of CPAP. Our study confirmed a trend towards younger and healthier patients over time but also showed an independent effect of the period on mortality and ICU admission. The appearance of new viral variants, the starting of vaccination, and organizational improvements in tracking, outpatients and inpatients management could have influenced these trends.
Primary Amenorrhea with Apparently Absent Uterus: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Porsius Eva , Spath Marian , Kluivers Kirsten , Klein Willemijn , Claahsen-van der Grinten Hedi
Published: July 2022

Background: The apparent absence of a uterus upon imaging women with primary amenorrhea appears to lead to a high risk of misdiagnosis, which will lead to significant mental distress in patients. Case: Three young females with primary amenorrhea were referred with a diagnosis of Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser syndrome based on radiological findings of an apparently absent uterus. In two patients, the absence of the uterus could be confirmed, but with various diagnoses. The other patient had a normal but unstimulated uterus due to her hypoestrogenic state. Summary and Conclusion: The presented cases illustrate the broad differential diagnoses and the specific pitfalls of primary amenorrhea with an apparently absent uterus upon imaging. A well-established diagnosis was only possible through a thorough correlation of imaging findings with clinical history, biochemical findings and physical examination.
Detecting Reasons for Nonadherence to Medication in Adults with Epilepsy: A Review of Self-Report Measures and Key Predictors
Authors: Mendorf Sarah , Prell Tino , Schönenberg Aline
Published: July 2022

This review presents individual reasons for self-reported nonadherence in people with epilepsy (PWE). A literature search was performed on the PubMed/Medline and Scopus databases for studies published up to March 2022. Thirty-six studies were included using the following inclusion criteria: original studies on adults with epilepsy, use of subjective self-report adherence measurement methods, and publication in English. Data were extracted using a standardized data extraction table, including the year of publication, authors, cohort size, study design, adherence measurement method, and self-reported reasons for nonadherence. Self-reported reasons for nonadherence were grouped following the WHO model with the five dimensions of nonadherence. In addition, study characteristics and sociodemographic information are reported. Of the 36 included studies, 81% were observational. The average nonadherence rate was nearly 50%. Across all studies, patient-associated, therapy-associated, and circumstance-related factors were the most frequently reported dimensions of nonadherence. These factors include forgetfulness, presence of side-effects, and history of seizures. Regarding healthcare system factors, financial problems were the most reported reason for nonadherence. Stigmatization and quality of life were the most frequently cited factors influencing nonadherence in the disease- and circumstance-related dimensions. The results suggest that interventions for improving adherence should incorporate all dimensions of nonadherence.
High Serum IL-31 Concentration Is Associated with Itch among Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Krajewski Piotr K. , Tyczyńska Kinga , Bardowska Klaudia , Olczyk Piotr , Nowicka-Suszko Danuta , Janczak Dariusz , Augustyniak-Bartosik Hanna , Krajewska Magdalena , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: July 2022

Chronic itch (CI) is a common symptom caused by both dermatological and systemic disorders. CI is also a frequent, burdensome symptom among renal transplant recipients (RTR); however, its pathophysiology is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to assess the differences in concentration of IL-31 among itchy RTR. The study was performed on a group of selected 129 RTRs (54 itchy and 75 non-itchy patients). Itch severity was assessed with the use of the numeral rating scale (NRS) and the 4-item itch questionnaire (4IIQ). Every subject had his blood drawn to measure the concentration of IL-31. The results were subsequently compared and correlated. The mean concentration differed significantly between RTR suffering from itch (602.44 ± 534.5 pg/mL), non-itchy RTR (161.49 ± 106.61 pg/mL), and HC (110.33 ± 51.81 pg/mL) (p < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis revealed a statistically significantly increased IL-31 serum concentration in itchy RTR in comparison to the non-itchy RTR group (p < 0.001) and HC (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed in IL-31 serum levels between non-itchy RTRs and HC. No correlation between IL-31 and itch intensity was found. The results of our study clearly demonstrate the association between IL-31 levels and CI in patients after renal transplantation.
Clinical Management of Hemodialyzed Patients: From Pharmacological Interventions to Advanced Technologies
Authors: Monardo Paolo , Lacquaniti Antonio
Published: July 2022

Morbidity and mortality have marginally decreased over the last 3 decades in hemodialyzed (HD) patients, despite multiple pharmacological and technological interventions [...]
Endogenous Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) in Military Professionals with a Special Emphasis on Military Pilots
Authors: Maculewicz Ewelina , Pabin Agata , Kowalczuk Krzysztof , Dziuda Łukasz , Białek Agnieszka
Published: July 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors can be categorized as non-modifiable and modifiable. Modifiable risk factors include some exogenous and behavioral factors that can be easily modified, whereas endogenous modifiable risk factors, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or obesity may be modified to a limited extend. An increased prevalence of CVDs as well as their risk factors have been observed in military personnel, as specific military-related stressors are highly correlated with acute cardiac disorders. Military pilots are a subpopulation with great CVD risk due to an accumulation of different psychological and physical stressors also considered to be CVD risk factors. This review presents data concerning CVD risk in military professionals, with a special emphasis on military pilots and crew members. We also discuss the usefulness of novel indicators related to oxidative stress, inflammation, or hormonal status as well as genetic factors as markers of CVD risk. For a correct and early estimation of CVD risk in asymptomatic soldiers, especially if no environmental risk factors coexist, the scope of performed tests should be increased with novel biomarkers. An indication of risk group among military professional, especially military pilots, enables the implementation the early preventive activities, which will prolong their state of health and military suitability.
Test Reliability and Compliance to a Twelve-Month Visual Field Telemedicine Study in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Prea Selwyn Marc , Vingrys Algis Jonas , Kong George Yu Xiang
Published: July 2022

Background: Our primary aim is to quantify test reliability and compliance of glaucoma patients to a weekly visual field telemedicine (VFTM) schedule. A secondary aim is to determine concordance of the VFTM results to in-clinic outcomes. Methods: Participants with stable glaucoma in one eye were recruited for a 12 month VFTM trial using the Melbourne Rapid Fields (MRF-home, MRFh) iPad application. Participants attended routine 6 month clinical reviews and were tasked with weekly home monitoring with the MRFh over this period. We determined compliance to weekly VFTM (7 + 1 days) and test reliability (false positives (FPs) and fixation loss (FL) <33%). A secondary aim considered concordance to in-clinic measures of visual field (MRF-clinic (MRFc) and the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA)) in active participants (≥10 home examinations and 5 reliable HFA examinations). The linear trend in the MRFh mean deviation (MD) was compared to the HFA guided progression analysis (GPA) using Bland–Altman methods. Data are shown as the mean ± standard deviation. Results: Forty-seven participants with a mean age of 64 ± 14.6 years were recruited for the trial. The VFTM uptake was 85% and compliance to weekly home monitoring was 75% in the presence of weekly text reminders in the analysed group (n = 20). The analysed group was composed of test subjects with five reliable in-clinic HFA examinations (GPA analysis available) and who submitted a minimum of 10 MRFh examinations from home. Of the 757 home examinations returned, approximately two-thirds were reliable, which was significantly lower than the test reliability of the HFA in-clinic (MRFh: 65% vs. HFA: 85%, p < 0.001). The HFA-GPA analysis gave little bias from the MRFh slope (bias: 0.05 dB/yr, p > 0.05). Two eyes were found to have clinical progression during the 12 month period, and both were detected by VFTM. Conclusions: VFTM over 12 months returned good compliance (75%) to weekly testing with good concordance to in-clinic assays. VFTM is a viable option for monitoring patients with glaucoma for visual field progression in between clinical visits.
Effectiveness of Ultrasonography Visual Biofeedback of the Diaphragm in Conjunction with Inspiratory Muscle Training on Muscle Thickness, Respiratory Pressures, Pain, Disability, Quality of Life and Pulmonary Function in Athletes with Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Marugán-Rubio Daniel , Chicharro J. , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Losa-Iglesias Marta , Rodríguez-Sanz David , Vicente-Campos Davinia , Molina-Hernández Nerea , Calvo-Lobo César
Published: July 2022

Diaphragmatic weakness and thickness reduction have been detected in athletes with lumbopelvic pain (LPP). Strength training of inspiratory muscles may be necessary for athletes with LPP. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and visual biofeedback by rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) have been proposed as possible interventions. Here, we determine the effectiveness of visual biofeedback by RUSI with a proposed novel thoracic orthotic device to facilitate diaphragmatic contraction in conjunction with high-intensity IMT in athletes with non-specific LPP. A single-blinded, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial was performed (NCT04097873). Of 86 participants assessed for eligibility, 64 athletes with non-specific LPP (39 males and 25 females; mean age, 33.15 ± 7.79 years) were recruited, randomized, analyzed and received diaphragm visual biofeedback by RUSI in conjunction with high-intensity IMT (RUSI+IMT; n = 32) or isolated high-intensity IMT (IMT; n = 32) interventions for 8 weeks. Diaphragmatic thickness during normal breathing, maximum respiratory pressures, pain intensity, pressure pain threshold on lumbar musculature, disability by the Roland–Morris questionnaire, quality of life by the SF-12 questionnaire and spirometry respiratory parameters were assessed at baseline and after the 8-week intervention. There were significant differences (p = 0.015), within a medium effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.62) for the forced expiratory volume in 1-s (FEV1), which was increased in the RUSI+IMT intervention group relative to the IMT alone group. Adverse effects were not observed. The rest of the outcomes did not show significant differences (p > 0.05). Diaphragm visual biofeedback by RUSI with the proposed novel thoracic orthotic device in conjunction with high-intensity IMT improved lung function by increasing FEV1 in athletes with non-specific LPP.
Simulation of the Nearshore Sediment Transport Pattern and Beach Morphodynamics in the Semi-Enclosed Bay of Myrtos, Cephalonia Island, Ionian Sea
Authors: Petropoulos Alexandros , Kapsimalis Vasilios , Evelpidou Niki , Karkani Anna , Giannikopoulou Katerina
Published: July 2022

Myrtos Beach (Cephalonia Island, Ionian Sea, Greece) represents a pocket beach with strong touristic, economic and natural interest. In this research, the morphodynamic behavior of the coastal area (e.g., hydrodynamic and sedimentary state, morphology, orientation, etc.), the current wave conditions (extreme and dominant waves, wave exposure), and also external factors, such as human impact and the geotechnical condition of the wider area, are examined. Short- and medium-to-long-term analysis took place, such as mapping, sediment analysis, wave/wind analysis, numerical modeling, and satellite monitoring, in order to identify the dynamic forcing parameters related to geomorphology, sedimentology, and hydrology that prevail in the area. Additionally, the intense tectonics, the karstified limestones, and the steep slopes of the cliffs in combination with the frequent seismic events on the island set up a geotechnically unstable area, which often cause landslides on the beach of Myrtos; these supply the beach with a large amount of aggregates, constituting the main sediment supply. Wave exposure forcing conditions, longshore–rip current direction, and other hydrodynamic processes are stable with high values in the area, causing notable sediment transport within the bay boundaries. As a result, at Myrtos Bay there is a dynamic balance of the natural system, which is directly affected by human interventions. Taking also into consideration that Myrtos is one of the most famous beaches in Greece and one of the main attractions of Cephalonia Island with thousands of visitors every year, beach management must be focused on preserving the natural system of the coastal area.
Have Non-Native English-Speaking Marine Cadet Engineers Been Educated Appropriately?
Authors: Jeon Tae-Youl , Kim Bu-Gi , Kim Nooree , Lee Young-Chan
Published: July 2022

Freight transport via ships is the cheapest and most effective way to transfer more than 80% of the global cargo volume. Seafarers have always been multinational, and accordingly, non-English-speaking crew members are becoming an increasing presence on board. Although marine engineers comprise half of the crews among all seafarers on board ships, Standard English guides, such as SMCP for navigation officers designed to reduce communication barriers, are unavailable for marine engineers. IMO conventions require marine engineers to possess adequate English skills. However, marine accidents due to inappropriate communication between crew members continue to occur. In this paper, 185 marine engineer cadets enrolled in two universities who had completed 12 months of training on a commercial ship or school training ship were surveyed in terms of the adequacy of English courses for marine engineers in class. This paper investigated whether the marine engineer English subjects are reviewed and analyzed and whether the English examination for the Certificate of Competence is suitable for the content taught in international maritime instruments and for the actual work of engineers. Finally, this paper aimed to establish a need to develop Standard English for engineers.
Minimum 2-Year Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes of Unrestricted Kinematic Alignment Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients with Excessive Varus of the Tibia Component
Authors: Bar Ziv Yaron , Essa Ahmad , Lamykin Konstantin , Chacar Najib , Livshits Gilad , Khatib Salah , Comaya Yoav , Shohat Noam
Published: July 2022

Kinematic alignment (KA) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has gained much attention in recent years. However, debate remains on whether restrictions should be made on the tibia cut. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and functional outcomes of excessive varus cuts. A single-center, retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing TKA between 2018 and 2020 who had a minimum 2-year follow-up was conducted. EOS™ imaging conducted before and after surgery was analyzed for overall alignment, as well as for tibia and femur component positioning on the coronal planes. Patients were interviewed and asked to fill several questionnaires, including the visual analog score, Oxford knee score, and knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score. Overall, 243 patients (71.9%) had a coronal tibial plate angle under 5° (moderate) and 95 patients (28.1%) had an angle above 5° (excessive). There were no significant differences between the moderate and excessive groups in patient-reported outcomes, nor were there differences in the number of patients achieving the minimal clinical difference. There were no cases of catastrophic failure or loosening. Unrestricted KA and excessive varus of the tibial component appears to be safe and efficient in relieving pain and restoring function for a minimum of 2 years following surgery.
Can Livestock Raising Alleviate Farmland Abandonment?—Evidence from China
Authors: Song Hengfei , Xin Liangjie , Li Xiubin , Wang Xue , He Yufeng , Song Wen
Published: July 2022

Farmland abandonment is a global phenomenon. Changes in socioeconomic factors in China impact the traditional crop–livestock system; however, studies on the relationship between livestock raising and farmland abandonment are insufficient. This study used the farmer behavior decision-making model to analyze the impact of livestock raising on farmland abandonment and its mechanism. Based on 6707 samples from the 2016 database of the China Labor-force Dynamic Survey, the Logit and Tobit models were used to empirically analyze the relationship between livestock raising and farmland abandonment at the national level and different terrains (plain, hill and mountain) in China. The results showed farmland abandonment in 15.63% of rural households, and a farmland abandonment ratio of 6.24%. The spatial distribution of farmland abandonment was high in the south and low in the north. Livestock raising households accounted for 9.45%, and the influence coefficient of livestock raising on farmland abandonment was negative but not significant. Livestock raising would significantly increase the ratio of rural households with farmland abandonment by 3.9% and 10% in plain areas and hilly areas, respectively, and decrease the ratio in mountain areas by 11.4%. The abandonment ratio due to livestock raising increased by 21.46% in hilly areas and decrease by 41% in mountain areas. For every 1% increase in livestock scale, the ratio of households with farmland abandonment in plain and hilly areas increased by 0.05% and 0.07%, respectively, and in mountain areas decreased by 0.09%. The abandonment ratio in hilly areas increased by 0.02% and in mountain areas decreased by 0.05%. The effects of raising livestock on farmland abandonment differed across terrains and thus require different measures for alleviating. Plain areas and hilly areas could combine livestock raising and crop planting between different households to improve farmland production capacity, and mountain areas could moderately develop livestock raising to alleviate farmland abandonment.
The Functional Evolution and Dynamic Mechanism of Rural Homesteads under the Background of Socioeconomic Transition: An Empirical Study on Macro- and Microscales in China
Authors: Su Kangchuan , Wu Jiang , Zhou Lulu , Chen Hongji , Yang Qingyuan
Published: July 2022

With the development of China’s national economy from the middle- and low-income stages to the middle- and high-income stages, the function of homesteads has undergone a significant evolution. Clarifying the evolution laws, characteristics, and dynamic mechanisms of various functions of homesteads can provide a basis for revitalizing the use of idle homesteads and promoting rural economic development. It can also provide theoretical guidance for implementing the Rural Revitalization Strategy. This paper uses statistical data and household survey data to establish a theoretical analytical framework for the functional evolution of rural homesteads under the background of changes in national economic-income levels. This study adopts comprehensive index model evaluation methods, participatory rural assessments, and participatory rural-mapping methods. This study reveals the characteristics and driving mechanism of the functional evolution of homesteads at different stages of economic development in China and verifies it from a microscale through typical rural homestay villages. The results show that the functional evolution of rural homesteads in China has apparent stages. In the middle- and low-income stages, the basic functions of the rural homestead are the living function, agricultural-production function, and social-security function. In the middle- and high-income stages, the living function, the nonagricultural-production function, and the asset function are the main functions. The functional evolution of rural homesteads is driven by both macro and micro factors. The multifunctional use of rural homesteads can fully activate the use rights of homesteads, realize the appreciation of the functional value of rural homestead assets, and provide primary power for rural social and economic development. Furthermore, it can play an essential role in China crossing the “middle-income trap”. The research results provide evidence for understanding the functional evolution law of rural homesteads and contribute to the rural geography of multifunctionality.
China’s Transport Land: Spatiotemporal Expansion Characteristics and Driving Mechanism
Authors: Zeng Liangen , Li Haitao , Wang Xiao , Yu Zhao , Hu Haoyu , Yuan Xinyue , Zhao Xuhai , Li Chengming , Yuan Dandan , Gao Yukun , Nie Yang , Huang Liangzhen
Published: July 2022

The literature about changes in land use includes many studies of global sustainable development goals, while studies of transport land expansion have been relatively scarce. In this paper, we present an analysis of the spatiotemporal characteristics of transport land expansion in China’s 31 provinces from 2009 to 2017, applying the spatial Dubin model to identify the factors that influenced changes in per capita transport land area (PCTLA). The eastern and western regions have continued to lead the nation in terms of the total area dedicated to transport land. The expansion speed of transport land in the central and western regions, however, has been faster than in the eastern and northeast regions. As for PCTLA, the western region had the greatest amount and the central region the least. Further, PCTLA showed significant spatial autocorrelation. Economic development, government regulations, industrial structure, and the extent of opening up and urbanization had significant positive impacts on PCTLA, while the development of railway freight had a negative impact. This paper concludes with some policy suggestions for optimizing transport investment, accelerating the adjustment of industrial structure and transport structure, and implementing high-quality urbanization. The results should be of interest to those involved in the sustainable development of transport systems.
Synergetic Antimicrobial Effect of Silver Nanoparticles Conjugated with Iprodione against Valsa mali
Authors: Li Tao , Huang Weidong , Yu Haibing
Published: July 2022

Apple tree canker induced by Valsa mali is a vital disease in apple production around the world, and it highlyimpacts the development of apple industry. It is of great significance to study the inhibition effect of common fungicides and develop new fungistats for comprehensive control of apple tree canker. In this experiment, the inhibition activity of five fungicides, including mancozeb, metalaxyl, iprodione, prochloraz, and difenoconazole along with biosynthesized nanosilver against V. mali, were measured with the mycelium growth rate and agar well diffusion methods. The results showed that iprodione exhibited the best inhibitory effect, the median inhibition concentration (IC50) of iprodione and nanosilver was 0.62 μg.mL−1 and 45.50 μg.mL−1, the suppression rate achieved 67.93% at 200 μg.mL−1 of nanosilver. Moreover, a remarkable additive and synergistic antimicrobial effect was verified when silver nanoparticles were conjugated with iprodione at 9:1, 8:2, 7:3, and 6:4 (v/v), and the toxicity ratio was 1.04, 1.13, 1.01, and 0.98, respectively. It is proven that biosynthesized silver nanoparticles could effectively inhibit Valsa mali, and it is possible to develop and screen silver nanoparticle-based nano pesticides to manage plant diseases synthetically.
Optimization of AlCrSiWN Coating Process Parameters and Performance Study by the Matrix Analysis Method
Authors: Wei Shasha , Wang Renxin , Yang Hu , Guo Ziming , Lin Rongchuan , Huang Qingmin , Zhou Yuhui
Published: July 2022

An AlCrSiWN coating was prepared on a cemented carbide substrate by the arc ion plating technology. The optimization of the coating process was carried out by matrix analysis of orthogonal experiments to calculate the influence of the process parameters on the hardness, bonding and roughness indexes of the coating, determine the optimal coating process parameters, and focus on the influence of the bias voltage on the microscopic morphology, mechanical properties and friction properties of the coating. The results showed that the influence of the process parameters on the indexes of the orthogonal experiments was in the following order: bias voltage > arc current > N2 flow rate. The optimal solution was achieved with an arc current of 160 A, a bias voltage of −80 V, and a N2 flow rate of 600 sccm. Properly increasing the bias voltage improved the microscopic morphology, mechanical properties and wear resistance of the coating. When the bias voltage was −80 V, the coating surface presented fewer large particles with a less uniform size and no obvious crater defects; in addition, the cross-sectional structure changed from grape-like to columnar, and the coating had higher hardness, lower roughness and better bond strength. In the friction performance test, coating at a −80 V bias voltage showed better wear resistance, which was reflected in lower friction coefficient and wear, and the wear mechanism mainly consisted of adhesion and oxidation wear.
The Effect of Antimony (III) Oxide on the Necessary Amount of Precursors Used in Laser-Activated Coatings Intended for Electroless Metallization
Authors: Jagodziński Bartłomiej , Rytlewski Piotr , Moraczewski Krzysztof , Trafarski Andrzej , Karasiewicz Tomasz
Published: July 2022

The article presents research on the potential use of organometallic compounds with the addition of antimony (III) oxide Sb2O3 as a coating additive that will make coatings susceptible to electroless metallization after prior surface irradiation with 193 nm wavelength laser radiation and a different number of laser pulses. The surface modification and activation effects were assessed by optical-imagining as well as by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive analysis (EDX). It was found that the presence of Sb2O3 in the coating made it possible to reduce the content of the copper complex, causing an intensive surface ablation, resulting in the formation of a conical structure with a higher content of metallic copper nuclei.