bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Scale for Patients Undergoing Endodontic Treatment (OHQE) for Irreversible Pulpitis
Authors: Arifin Fadil Abdillah , Matsuda Yuhei , Kanno Takahiro
Published: October 2023

An oral health-related quality of life measure specific to patients undergoing endodontic treatment has not been developed. This study aimed to validate the oral health-related quality of life scale for patients undergoing endodontic treatment (OHQE) for irreversible pulpitis, comprised of 42 questions. Sixty-two patients with irreversible pulpitis, comprising 23 (37.1%) males and 39 (62.9%) females, were enrolled between August 2022 and February 2023. Data were collected at three time points: pretreatment, post-treatment, and at the second week post-treatment. Factor analysis revealed physical, psychological, and expectations as subscales of OHQE. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranged from 0.87 to 0.95 for each subscale. Each subscale of the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) was moderately correlated with the OHQE subscales. Good–poor analysis revealed a significant difference between the high-scoring and low-scoring groups for each OHQE subscale. The intraclass correlation coefficients of the OHQE subscales ranged from 0.89 to 0.95. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between the pretreatment and post-treatment psychological factors (p < 0.05). Thus, OHQE will help researchers and policymakers understand the impact of oral health on the quality of life of patients with irreversible pulpitis undergoing endodontic treatment. OHQE could contribute to the appropriate planning, treatment decisions, and management of dental treatment.
The Relationship between Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life in Korean Adults: The Eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Jun Mun-Gyu , Han Se-Hyeon
Published: October 2023

This study used the raw data from the Eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES-VIII), conducted under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2019. It was conducted to identify a significant correlation between physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HR QOL) in the Korean population. In 2019, the KNHANES-VIII added the Health-related Quality of Life Instrument with 8 items (HINT-8) to assess the HR QOL. The independent variable is related to PA, specifically the presence or absence of PA, type of PA, and the frequency of PA. The dependent variable is HR QOL, measured either as the total score or specific items (e.g., pain, vitality, and memory) using the HINT-8 measurement tool. Demographic characteristics and health status may directly or indirectly influence the relationship between PA and HR QOL, which were used as covariates. A total of 4357 participants were included in the current study. The mean HINT-8 scores were significantly higher in the participants who performed PA on a weekly basis, leisure-related PA or MSPA, as compared with those who did not (p = 0.01 and <0.0001, respectively). In both the unadjusted and adjusted models, the mean HINT-8 scores were significantly higher in the participants who performed ≥500 MET-min/week of leisure-related PA as compared with those who did not (95% CI: 1.017–1.033; p < 0.001 and 95% CI: 1.005–1.02; p = 0.001, respectively). In both the unadjusted and adjusted models, the mean HINT-8 scores were significantly higher (95% CI: 1.015–1.03; p < 0.001 and 95% CI: 1.004–1.018; p = 0.003, respectively) in the participants who performed MSPA for ≥2 days/week as compared with those who did not. The current results confirmed that there is a significant positive correlation between the PA and HR QOL based on the HINT-8 scores. Because the HINT-8 was developed to assess the HR QOL in Koreans, however, further studies are warranted to evaluate its applicability to other ethnic populations.
Identifying Spatiotemporal Patterns of Multiscale Connectivity in the Flow Space of Urban Agglomeration in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Chen Yaohui , Cui Caihui , Han Zhigang , Liu Feng , Wu Qirui , Yu Wangqin
Published: October 2023

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the rise of global sustainability science have led to the increasing recognition of basins as the key natural geographical units for human–land system coupling and spatial coordinated development. The effective measurement of spatiotemporal patterns of urban connectivity within a basin has become a key issue in achieving basin-related SDGs. Meanwhile, China has been actively working toward co-ordinated regional development through in-depth implementation of the Yellow River Basin’s ecological protection and high-quality development. Urban connectivity has been trending in urban planning, and significant progress has been made on different scales according to the flow space theory. Nevertheless, few studies have been conducted on the multiscale spatiotemporal patterns of urban agglomeration connectivity. In this study, the urban network in the Yellow River Basin was constructed using Tencent population migration data from 2015 and 2019. It was then divided into seven distinct communities to enable analysis at both the basin and community scales. Centrality, symmetry, and polycentricity indices were employed, and the multiscale spatiotemporal patterns of urban agglomerations in the Yellow River Basin were identified using community detection, complex networks, and the migration kaleidoscope method. Community connectivity was notably concentrated at the basin scale with a centripetal pattern and spatial heterogeneity. Additionally, there was a symmetrical and co-ordinated relationship in population migration between the eastern and western regions of the basin, as well as between the internal and external parts of the basin. At the community scale, there was significant variation in the extent of central agglomeration among different communities, with few instances of similar-level, long-distance, and interregional bilateral links. The utilization of multiscale spatiotemporal patterns has the potential to enhance the comprehension of economic cooperation between various cities and urban agglomerations. This understanding can aid decision-makers in formulating sustainable development policies that foster the spatial integration of the basin.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Incidence of Rupture, Repair, and Death of Small and Large Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms under Surveillance
Authors: Leone Nicola , Broda Magdalena Anna , Eiberg Jonas Peter , Resch Timothy Andrew
Published: October 2023

Background: The ultimate goal of treating patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is to repair them when the risk of rupture exceeds the risk of repair. Small AAAs demonstrate a low rupture risk, and recently, large AAAs just above the threshold (5.5–6.0 cm) seem to be at low risk of rupture as well. The present review aims to investigate the outcomes of AAAs under surveillance through a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register were searched (22 March 2022; PROSPERO; #CRD42022316094). The Cochrane and PRISMA statements were respected. Blinded systematic screening of the literature, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed by two authors. Conflicts were resolved by a third author. The meta-analysis of prevalence provided estimated proportions, 95% confidence intervals, and measures of heterogeneity (I2). Based on I2, the heterogeneity might be negligible (0–40%), moderate (30–60%), substantial (50–90%), and considerable (75–100%). The primary outcome was the incidence of AAA rupture. Secondary outcomes included the rate of small AAAs reaching the threshold for repair, aortic-related mortality, and all-cause mortality. Results: Fourteen publications (25,040 patients) were included in the analysis. The outcome rates of the small AAA group (<55 mm) were 0.3% (95% CI 0.0–1.0; I2 = 76.4%) of rupture, 0.6% (95% CI 0.0–1.9; I2 = 87.2%) of aortic-related mortality, and 9.6% (95% CI 2.2–21.1; I2 = 99.0%) of all-cause mortality. During surveillance, 21.4% (95% CI 9.0–37.2; I2 = 99.0%) of the initially small AAAs reached the threshold for repair. The outcome rates of the large AAA group (>55 mm) were 25.7% (95% CI 18.0–34.3; I2 = 72.0%) of rupture, 22.1% (95% CI 16.5–28.3; I2 = 25.0%) of aortic-related mortality, and 61.8% (95% CI 47.0–75.6; I2 = 89.1%) of all-cause mortality. The sensitivity analysis demonstrated a higher rupture rate in studies including <662 subjects, patients with a mean age > 72 years, >17% of female patients, and >44% of current smokers. Conclusion: The rarity of rupture and aortic-related mortality in small AAAs supports the current conservative management of small AAAs. Surveillance seems indicated, as one-fifth reached the threshold for repair. Large aneurysms had a high incidence of rupture and aortic-related mortality. However, these data seem biased by the sparse and heterogeneous literature overrepresented by patients unfit for surgery. Specific rupture risk stratified by age, gender, and fit-for-surgery patients with large AAAs needs to be further investigated.
Efficacy and Safety of Adalimumab Biosimilar GP2017 in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Vernero Marta , Bezzio Cristina , Ribaldone Davide G. , Costa Stefania , Scalvini Davide , Tribocco Elisa , Manes Gianpiero , Saibeni Simone
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: GP2017 is one of the biosimilar drugs of adalimumab, one of the anti-TNF agents used for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To date, there is little real-world data about the use of GP2017 in IBD patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this biosimilar in an IBD population. (2) Methods: This is an observational retrospective study including patients that were all treated with GP2017 as a first step or as a switch from the originator or other biosimilars. The clinical activity was evaluated at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of therapy. The therapy discontinuation and side effects were also evaluated. (3) Results: a total of 72 patients were included (65 with Crohn’s disease and 7 with ulcerative colitis). Of the 29 patients starting GP2017 as a first adalimumab therapy, clinical remission was achieved in 58.6%. Of the patients starting GP2017 as a switch from the originator (33 patients) or other biosimilars (10 patients), clinical remission was maintained in 78.8% and in 70%, respectively. Regarding the safety, only 11 patients experienced non-serious side effects. During the follow-up, nine patients suspended treatment mainly due to side effects or secondary failure. (4) Conclusions: GP2017 is an effective and safe therapy for IBD patients.
Impact of Parenteral Prostanoids in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: The Relevance of Timing
Authors: Papa Silvia , Scoccia Gianmarco , Serino Giorgia , Adamo Francesca Ileana , Jabbour Jean Pierre , Caputo Annalisa , Boromei Michela , Filomena Domenico , Laviola Domenico , Maggio Enrico , Manzi Giovanna , Mihai Alexandra , Recchioni Tommaso , Sabusco Alexandra , Valeri Livia , Vinciullo Sara , Vizza Carmine Dario , Badagliacca Roberto
Published: October 2023

Parenteral prostanoids are being recommended in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) treatment, but the prognostic relevance of delayed treatment initiation is still debated. This study assessed the impact of the timing of prostacyclin treatment initiation on reducing PVR and achieving a low-risk profile in PAH patients. The study enrolled 151 patients who started on parenteral prostanoids with different treatment strategies. All patients underwent right heart catheterization, clinical evaluation, and risk assessments at baseline and after 1-year follow-up. Patients with an upfront strategy including parenteral prostanoid plus one oral drug had −5.3 ± 6.2 WU (−50 ± 19%) reduction in PVR, patients with an upfront strategy including parenteral prostanoid plus double oral drug had −12.8 ± 5.9 WU (−68 ± 17%) reduction in PVR, while patients with an add-on strategy including parenteral prostanoid after oral drugs had −3.9 ± 3.5 WU (−23 ± 19%) reduction in PVR. An upfront strategy including parenteral prostanoids was independently associated with an increased likelihood of achieving the greater reduction of PVR compared with an add-on strategy. Additionally, the greater the severity of PH at the time of diagnosis, in terms of PVR and RV reverse remodeling, the higher the probability of treatment failure. An upfront strategy including a parenteral prostanoid is associated with the highest likelihood of achieving a low-risk profile and a greater reduction of PVR compared with parenteral prostanoid as an add-on to oral treatment.
Maternal Risk Factors and Their Effect on Outcome and Procedure-Related Complications in Cordocentesis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Kosian Philipp , Gloning Karl-Philipp , Germer Ute , Strizek Brigitte , Berg Christoph , Gembruch Ulrich , Geipel Annegret
Published: October 2023

Background: Cordocentesis is used in clinical situations in which lower-risk diagnostic procedures do not deliver the desired results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk for procedure-related complications and fetal loss in correlation to maternal risk factors. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective study investigating the complications, risk factors and perinatal outcome of diagnostic cordocentesis between 1998 and 2019 in three different centers. Results: A total of 1806 cordocenteses were performed and procedure-related complications (IUFD within 48 h, contractions, bradycardia, unsuccessful puncture, chorioamniotic separation) were noted in 1.6% of cases. Fetuses with chromosomal aberrations, intrauterine growth restriction and hydropic fetuses had a significantly higher rate of fetal loss compared to other indications. Fetal blood sampling (FBS) performed before 17+0 weeks of gestation was associated with a higher risk of procedure-related complications. Maternal BMI ≥ 40 increased the risk for fetal loss, whereas maternal age, number of previous miscarriages, number of previous abortions, history of vaginal bleeding or nicotine abuse did not affect the risk for complications or overall fetal loss rate. Conclusions: In the hands of experienced operators, FBS is a safe way to further fetal diagnostics, and the risk of complications is low.
Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis: Video-Documented Sialendoscopy
Authors: Soriano-Martín David , García-Consuegra Luis , Junquera Luis , Reda Sara , Junquera Sonsoles
Published: October 2023

Juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP) is characterised by recurrent episodes of painful parotid swelling in children. JRP is the second most common cause of parotitis in childhood, behind only paramyxovirus. The prevention of recurrent attacks represents the most dramatic and serious aspect of this pathology. Since 2004, different authors have evaluated sialendoscopy for the diagnostic and therapeutic management of JRP. In this paper, we share our clinical experience of the use of sialendoscopy for the treatment of JRP. We document with video sialendoscopy the glandular pathology in four children with a mean age of 11.5 years, who had suffered from 3–6 episodes/year of inflammation prior to treatment. The use of sialendoscopy in our patients was effective in preventing recurrences. For the first time, the videosialendoscopy of a series of children diagnosed with JRP is documented in the literature.
Pretreatment Masseter Muscle Volume Predicts Survival in Locally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients Treated with Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Pehlivan Umur Anil , Somay Efsun , Yilmaz Busra , Besen Ali Ayberk , Mertsoylu Huseyin , Selek Ugur , Topkan Erkan
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose: Muscle loss is a significant indicator of cancer cachexia and is associated with a poor prognosis in cancer patients. Given the absence of comparable studies, the current retrospective study sought to examine the correlation between the total masseter muscle volume (TMMV) before treatment and the survival outcomes in locally advanced nasopharyngeal cancer (LA-NPC) patients who received definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Methods: A three-dimensional segmentation model was used to determine the TMMV for each patient by analyzing pre-CCRT magnetic resonance imaging. The optimal TMMV cutoff values were searched using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses. The primary and secondary endpoints were the relationship between the pre-CCRT TMMV measures and overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), respectively. Results: Ninety-seven patients were included in this study. ROC curve analyses revealed 38.0 cc as the optimal TMMV cutoff: ≤38.00 cc (n = 42) and >38.0 cc (n = 55). Comparisons between the two groups showed that the TMMV>38.0 cc group had significantly longer PFS [Not reached (NR) vs. 28; p < 0.01] and OS (NR vs. 71; p < 0.01) times, respectively. The results of the multivariate analysis demonstrated that the T-stage, N-stage, number of concurrent chemotherapy cycles, and TMMV were independent associates of PFS (p < 0.05 for each) and OS (p < 0.05 for each) outcomes, respectively. Conclusion: The findings of the current retrospective research suggest that pretreatment TMMV is a promising indicator for predicting survival outcomes in LA-NPC patients receiving definitive CCRT.
Use of Farnesyl Transferase Inhibitors in an Ageing Model in Drosophila
Authors: Brandt Annely , Petrovsky Roman , Kriebel Maria , Großhans Jörg
Published: October 2023

The presence of farnesylated proteins at the inner nuclear membrane (INM), such as the Lamins or Kugelkern in Drosophila, leads to specific changes in the nuclear morphology and accelerated ageing on the organismal level reminiscent of the Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS). Farnesyl transferase inhibitors (FTIs) can suppress the phenotypes of the nuclear morphology in cultured fibroblasts from HGPS patients and cultured cells overexpressing farnesylated INM proteins. Similarly, FTIs have been reported to suppress the shortened lifespan in model organisms. Here, we report an experimental system combining cell culture and Drosophila flies for testing the activity of substances on the HGPS-like nuclear morphology and lifespan, with FTIs as an experimental example. Consistent with previous reports, we show that FTIs were able to ameliorate the nuclear phenotypes induced by the farnesylated nuclear proteins Progerin, Kugelkern, or truncated Lamin B in cultured cells. The subsequent validation in Drosophila lifespan assays demonstrated the applicability of the experimental system: treating adult Drosophila with the FTI ABT-100 reversed the nuclear phenotypes and extended the lifespan of experimentally induced short-lived flies. Since kugelkern-expressing flies have a significantly shorter average lifespan, half the time is needed for testing substances in the lifespan assay.
Offshore Wind Energy Assessment with a Clustering Approach to Mixture Model Parameter Estimation
Authors: Huang Weinan , Zhu Xiaowen , Xia Haofeng , Wu Kejian
Published: October 2023

In wind resource assessment research, mixture models are gaining importance due to the complex characteristics of wind data. The precision of parameter estimations for these models is paramount, as it directly affects the reliability of wind energy forecasts. Traditionally, the expectation–maximization (EM) algorithm has served as a primary tool for such estimations. However, challenges are often encountered with this method when handling complex probability distributions. Given these limitations, the objective of this study is to propose a new clustering algorithm, designed to transform mixture distribution models into simpler probability clusters. To validate its efficacy, a numerical experiment was conducted, and its outcomes were compared with those derived from the established EM algorithm. The results demonstrated a significant alignment between the new method and the traditional EM approach, indicating that comparable accuracy can be achieved without the need for solving complex nonlinear equations. Moreover, the new algorithm was utilized to examine the joint probabilistic structure of wind speed and air density in China’s coastal regions. Notably, the clustering algorithm demonstrated its robustness, with the root mean square error value being notably minimal and the coefficient of determination exceeding 0.9. The proposed approach is suggested as a compelling alternative for parameter estimation in mixture models, particularly when dealing with complex probability models.
Morphological Performance of Vegetated and Non-Vegetated Coastal Dunes with Rocky and Geotextile Tube Cores under Storm Conditions
Authors: Maximiliano-Cordova Carmelo , Silva Rodolfo , Mendoza Edgar , Chávez Valeria , Martínez M. Luisa , Feagin Rusty A.
Published: October 2023

Coastal dune restoration projects are increasingly seen as a means of protecting the coast against storms, especially with the use of natural (plants), artificial (geotextile tube cores) and hybrid (plants and geotextile tube) elements. As geotextile tube cores have been found to negatively affect dune and beach natural morphodynamics, rocky cores are thus seen as a potential alternative. We carried out laboratory experiments to compare the performance of dunes with rocky cores, geotextile cores, and both types when coupled with planted vegetation. We investigated these elements in the context of scaled mild, moderate, and intense storm conditions. The results showed that dunes with either type of core lost more sand than dunes without cores. The addition of plants generally reduced the erosion across the various options, but most strongly for rocky cores under mild and moderate storm conditions. We also found that dunes with a high density of plants were best for intense conditions. Overall, the use of rocky dune cores, when coupled with plants, is the most suitable and sustainable alternative option in hybrid engineering projects.
Optimal Smoothing of the Wind–Wave Spectrum Based on the Confidence-Interval Trade-Off
Authors: Lee Uk-Jae , Ko Dong-Hui , Cho Hong-Yeon
Published: October 2023

In this study, a smoothing method was applied to improve the accuracy of peak wave period estimation using water surface elevation data collected from two oceanographic and meteorological observation towers situated on the western coast of the Korean Peninsula. The effectiveness of the smoothing method was validated by assessing the surface elevation variance and total wave energy. Subsequently, we examined the impact of the smoothing application. The results of our analysis revealed a reduction of approximately 27% in comparison to the confidence interval of the initially estimated spectrum upon applying the smoothing method. Furthermore, a slight variation of approximately 1–2 s was observed between the peak wave period calculated from the estimated spectrum and that obtained through the smoothing process. Utilizing statistical methods to determine the optimal smoothing parameter count, we observed an increasing trend as the range of significant wave heights decreased.
A Spectral Wave Model for Inhomogeneous Water Wave Fields Using the Quasi-Coherent Theory
Authors: Baltikas Vasilis , Krestenitis Yannis N.
Published: October 2023

A numerical stochastic wave model was developed in this study based on the quasi-coherent theoretical framework proposed by Smit and Janssen in 2013. Subsequently, the model was implemented to reproduce and cross-confirm the findings of the quasi-coherent (QC) spectral wave modeling approach. The process included simulations of experiments conducted by Vincent and Briggs regarding waves propagating over a submerged shoal. The results of the simulations agree with the expected results of the QC theory, which can account for the spatial coherence of inhomogeneous wave fields and capture wave interference more accurately than conventional spectral wave models. In addition, extra insight was gained about aspects of the overall numerical implementation of the QC theory.
Comparative Study on Numerical Calculation of Modal Characteristics of Pump-Turbine Shaft System
Authors: Liu Xuyang , Pang Jiayang , Li Lei , Zhao Weiqiang , Wang Yupeng , Yan Dandan , Zhou Lingjiu , Wang Zhengwei
Published: October 2023

Because a pump-turbine mainly undertakes the role of energy conversion and pumped storage in the field of hydropower engineering, the complex transition process and frequent conversion between different working conditions lead to the increase in the stress and strain of core components such as the unit shaft system, and even cause resonance phenomena. Based on ANSYS finite element numerical calculation software, this paper adopts the acoustic fluid–structure coupling method to study the influence of the shaft of the pump-turbine on the dynamic characteristics of the runner. At the same time, the paper analyses the influence of different contact modes between the runner and the shaft on the modal characteristics of the shaft system. The numerical simulation results have shown that the runner is affected by the added mass of the water. The natural frequency reduction rate of each order of wet modal is ranged from 19% to 64%. The main shaft has a greater influence on the simplification of the shaft system calculation method. The type of contact surface between the main shaft and the runner has a smaller influence on the modal characteristics and the natural frequency of the shaft system. The research in this paper contributes an evaluation of the dynamic characteristics of the runner of a hydraulic turbine unit, which is of great significance for the optimization of the analysis algorithm of the runner structure for large pumped storage units.
Enhanced Detection Method for Small and Occluded Targets in Large-Scene Synthetic Aperture Radar Images
Authors: Zhou Hui , Chen Peng , Li Yingqiu , Wang Bo
Published: October 2023

Ship detection in large-scene offshore synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images is crucial in civil and military fields, such as maritime management and wartime reconnaissance. However, the problems of low detection rates, high false alarm rates, and high missed detection rates of offshore ship targets in large-scene SAR images are due to the occlusion of objects or mutual occlusion among targets, especially for small ship targets. To solve this problem, this study proposes a target detection model (TAC_CSAC_Net) that incorporates a multi-attention mechanism for detecting marine vessels in large-scene SAR images. Experiments were conducted on two public datasets, the SAR-Ship-Dataset and high-resolution SAR image dataset (HRSID), with multiple scenes and multiple sizes, and the results showed that the proposed TAC_CSAC_Net model achieves good performance for both small and occluded target detection. Experiments were conducted on a real large-scene dataset, LS-SSDD, to obtain the detection results of subgraphs of the same scene. Quantitative comparisons were made with classical and recently developed deep learning models, and the experiments demonstrated that the proposed model outperformed other models for large-scene SAR image target detection.
Personalized Medicine for Orthopaedic Disorders
Authors: Jiang Nan
Published: October 2023

Orthopaedic disorders, also known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), refer to diseases or injuries of the bone, joint, cartilage, muscle, tendon, nerve, and spinal disc [...]
Immune Portrayal of a New Therapy Targeting Microbiota in an Animal Model of Psoriasis
Authors: Surcel Mihaela , Constantin Carolina , Munteanu Adriana Narcisa , Costea Diana Antonia , Isvoranu Gheorghița , Codrici Elena , Popescu Ionela Daniela , Tănase Cristiana , Ibram Alef , Neagu Monica
Published: October 2023

Background: Despite all the available treatments, psoriasis remains incurable; therefore, finding personalized therapies is a continuous challenge. Psoriasis is linked to a gut microbiota imbalance, highlighting the importance of the gut–skin axis and its inflammatory mediators. Restoring this imbalance can open new perspectives in psoriasis therapy. We investigated the effect of purified IgY raised against pathological human bacteria antibiotic-resistant in induced murine psoriatic dermatitis (PSO). Methods: To evaluate the immune portrayal in an imiquimod experimental model, before and after IgY treatment, xMAP array and flow cytometry were used. Results: There were significant changes in IL-1α,β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-13, IL-15, IL-17a, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IP-10/CXCL10, MCP-1/CCL2, MIP-1α/CCL3, MIP-1β/CCL4, MIG/CXCL9, and KC/CXCL1 serum levels. T (CD3ε+), B (CD19+) and NK (NK1.1+) cells were also quantified. In our model, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β cytokines and CXCL1 chemokine have extremely high circulatory levels in the PSO group. Upon experimental therapy, the cytokine serum values were not different between IgY-treated groups and spontaneously remitted PSO. Conclusions: Using the murine model of psoriatic dermatitis, we show that the orally purified IgY treatment can lead to an improvement in skin lesion healing along with the normalization of cellular and humoral immune parameters.
Poria cocos Lanostane Triterpenoids Extract Promotes Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid Production in D-Galactose-Induced Aging Rats
Authors: Chao Chien-Liang , Kuo Han-Peng , Huang Hsin-Wen , Cheng Maw-Yeun , Chao Hsin-Fan , Lu Shih-Min , Lin Hang-Ching , Wang Chao-Jih , Chang Tsu-Chung , Wu Chi-Rei
Published: October 2023

The global aging population is expanding at an increasingly rapid pace, with approximately one-fourth of the world’s population expected to be composed of elderly individuals by 2050. Aging skin is one of the major characteristics expressed in the elderly. The study comprehensively utilizes both cell and animal experiments to confirm the skin anti-aging effects of Poria cocos (P. cocos), which is one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines classified as tonic Chinese medicine, commonly used to treat physical weakness and aging-associated diseases. We demonstrate in this study that P. cocos lanostane triterpenoids extract (Lipucan®) ameliorates aging skin and promotes collagen accumulation and hyaluronic acid production in galactose-induced aging rats. Purified lanostane triterpenoids were initially identified as active components in P. cocos, which significantly increased collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in cultured human skin cells.
Prebiotic Syntheses of Organophosphorus Compounds from Reduced Source of Phosphorus in Non-Aqueous Solvents
Authors: Gull Maheen , Feng Tian , Smith Benjamin , Calcul Laurent , Pasek Matthew A.
Published: October 2023

Reduced-oxidation-state phosphorus (reduced P, hereafter) compounds were likely available on the early Earth via meteorites or through various geologic processes. Due to their reactivity and high solubility, these compounds could have played a significant role in the origin of various organophosphorus compounds of biochemical significance. In the present work, we study the reactions between reduced P compounds and their oxidation products, with the three nucleosides (uridine, adenosine, and cytidine), with organic alcohols (glycerol and ethanolamine), and with the tertiary ammonium organic compound, choline chloride. These reactions were studied in the non-aqueous solvent formamide and in a semi-aqueous solvent comprised of urea: ammonium formate: water (UAFW, hereafter) at temperatures of 55–68 °C. The inorganic P compounds generated through Fenton chemistry readily dissolve in the non-aqueous and semi-aqueous solvents and react with organics to form organophosphites and organophosphates, including those which are identified as phosphate diesters. This dual approach (1) use of non-aqueous and semi-aqueous solvents and (2) use of a reactive inorganic P source to promote phosphorylation and phosphonylation reactions of organics readily promoted anhydrous chemistry and condensation reactions, without requiring any additive, catalyst, or other promoting agent under mild heating conditions. We also present a comparative study of the release of P from various prebiotically relevant phosphate minerals and phosphite salts (e.g., vivianite, apatite, and phosphites of iron and calcium) into formamide and UAFW. These results have direct implications for the origin of biological P compounds from non-aqueous solvents of prebiotic provenance.
COVID-19 and Kidney: The Importance of Follow-Up and Long-Term Screening
Authors: Rai Vikrant
Published: October 2023

Renal involvement and kidney injury are common in COVID-19 patients, and the symptoms are more severe if the patient already has renal impairment. Renal involvement in COVID-19 is multifactorial, and the renal tubule is mainly affected, along with podocyte injury during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Inflammation, complement activation, hypercoagulation, and crosstalk between the kidney and lungs, brain, and heart are contributory factors. Kidney injury during the acute phase, termed acute kidney injury (AKI), may proceed to chronic kidney disease if the patient is discharged with renal impairment. Both AKI and chronic kidney disease (CKD) increase mortality in COVID-19 patients. Further, COVID-19 infection in patients suffering from CKD is more severe and increases the mortality rate. Thus, it is important to address both categories of patients, either developing AKI or CKD after COVID-19 or previously having CKD, with proper management and treatment. This review discusses the pathophysiology involved in AKI and CKD in COVID-19 infection, followed by management and treatment of AKI and CKD. This is followed by a discussion of the importance of screening and treatment of CKD patients infected with COVID-19 and future perspectives to improve treatment in such patients.
Effect of Atmospheric Conditions on the Tightening Behaviour of HV Galvanised Bolts in Structural Bolt Sets
Authors: Dubiel Tomasz , Grzejda Rafał
Published: October 2023

The aim of this article is to investigate the effect of atmospheric conditions on the tightening behaviour of HV bolts in structural bolt sets. The article describes the results of experimental tests carried out for bolt sets of a selected type. The parts of the joined sets were stored according to the specified six different conditions for four weeks before assembly. Paper, cardboard boxes and anticorrosion foils were used as protection against atmospheric conditions. The behaviour of unassembled and assembled bolt sets was also taken into account. The variation in the friction coefficient depending on the clamping force and storage conditions of the bolt sets was demonstrated. This applies both to the contact between the joining elements on the threaded surfaces and to the area between the bolt head and the bearing surface of the nut and washer.
An Investigation on the Teeth Crowning Effects on the Transient EHL Performance of Large-Scale Wind Turbine Spur Gears
Authors: Jamali Hazim U. , Aljibori H. S. S. , Jweeg Muhsin Jaber , Abdullah Oday I. , Ruggiero Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Crowning is applied to wind turbine gears, including spur gears, to ensure adequate stress distribution and contact localization in wind turbine main gearbox gears to improve the gear performance in the presence of misalignments. Each gear tooth is crowned along the face width using a parabolic curve that graduates from a maximum height at the edges and vanishes at the center of the tooth flank. This crowning transfers the elastohydrodynamic contact problem from a line to a point contact case where the surface curvatures and pressure gradient are considered in both directions of the solution space. A wide range of longitudinal crowning heights is considered in this analysis under heavily loaded teeth for typical large-scale wind turbine gears. Furthermore, the variation in the velocities is considered in the analysis. The full transient elastohydrodynamic point contact solution considers the non-Newtonian oil behavior, where the numerical solution is based on the finite difference method. This work is focused on the evaluation of the effectiveness of teeth’s longitudinal crowning in terms of the consequences on the resulting pressure distribution and the corresponding film thickness. The modification of the tooth flank significantly elevates the film thickness levels over the zones close to the tooth edges without a significant increase in the pressure values. Moreover, the zone close to the tooth edges from both sides, where the pressure is expected to drop to the ambient pressure, is extended as a result of the flank modification.
Tribology and Rheology of Polypropylene Grease with MoS2 and ZDDP Additives at Low Temperatures
Authors: Zhao Xinrui , Tian Chengguang , Hao Lei , Xu Hong , Dong Jinxiang
Published: October 2023

Polypropylene (PP) grease is a type of lubricating grease with excellent low-temperature performance. The wear and friction performance of steel/steel couples lubricated with PP grease containing molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), zinc dialkyldithophosphate (ZDDP) and MoS2/ZDDP as additives at low temperatures was investigated using an Optimol SRV reciprocating tester. Compared with MoS2 or ZDDP as single additives, the combination of MoS2 and ZDDP resulted in outstanding tribological properties, especially for higher-load, longer-duration and low-temperature working conditions. The analysis of the wear surface indicated that MoS2 not only adhered to the steel surfaces to form a solid film, but also combined with ZDDP to form a tribofilm. The active components of the additives reached the metal surfaces effectively, indicating that the polymer system did not interfere with the function of the additives. The rheological experiment results also showed that PP grease with additives can maintain stable viscoelasticity, viscosity recovery rates and ductility at low temperatures.
How Do Substrates Affect the Friction on Graphene at the Nanoscale?
Authors: Feng Haochen , Cheng Ziwen , Long Dongxu , Yang Tingting , Lu Zhibin , He Qichang
Published: October 2023

Substrates supporting two-dimensional materials are omnipresent in micro/nano electromechanical systems. Moreover, substrates are indispensable to all nanotribological experimental systems. However, substrates have rarely been taken into account in first-principles simulations of nanotribological systems. In this work, we investigate the effects of substrates on nanofriction by carrying out first-principles simulations of two systems: (a) one graphene monolayer sliding on another one supported by a metal substrate, denoted as the Gr-Gr/Metal system; and (b) a diatomic tip sliding on a graphene monolayer supported by a metal substrate, named the Tip-Gr/Metal system. Each substrate is made of triatomic layers constituting the minimum period and obtained by cutting a metal through its (111) surface. By varying metal substrates and analyzing the results of the first-principles simulations, it follows that (i) the fluctuation in the sliding energy barriers of the two systems can be modified by changing substrates; (ii) the adsorption type and the pressure affect friction; (iii) the presence of a substrate varies the interfacial binding strength; and (iv) the modulation of friction by substrates lies in altering the interface electron density. These results provide an answer to the important question of how substrates affect the friction on graphene at the nanoscale.
Morlet Wavelet Neural Network Investigations to Present the Numerical Investigations of the Prediction Differential Model
Authors: Sabir Zulqurnain , Arbi Adnène , Hashem Atef F. , Abdelkawy Mohamed A
Published: October 2023

In this study, a design of Morlet wavelet neural networks (MWNNs) is presented to solve the prediction differential model (PDM) by applying the global approximation capability of a genetic algorithm (GA) and local quick interior-point algorithm scheme (IPAS), i.e., MWNN-GAIPAS. The famous and historical PDM is known as a variant of the functional differential system that works as theopposite of the delay differential models. A fitness function is constructed by using the mean square error and optimized through the GA-IPAS for solving the PDM. Three PDM examples have been presented numerically to check the authenticity of the MWNN-GAIPAS. For the perfection of the designed MWNN-GAIPAS, the comparability of the obtained outputs and exact results is performed. Moreover, the neuron analysis is performed by taking 3, 10, and 20 neurons. The statistical observations have been performed to authenticate the reliability of the MWNN-GAIPAS for solving the PDM.
An Analytical Expression for the Fundamental Frequency of a Long Free-Spanning Submarine Pipeline
Authors: Phuor Ty , Trapper Pavel A. , Ganz Avshalom
Published: October 2023

The DNVGL-RP-F105 guidelines provide essential techniques for the preliminary design of undersea pipelines. However, its approximations for static displacement and the natural frequency of the pipe are restricted to cases where the ratio of the pipe’s diameter to its length (L/D) is less than 140. This limitation poses challenges for longer spans, which, although rare, can sometimes be unavoidable. This study introduces a novel analytical method, rooted in the energy method and cable theory, for computing the static deformation and natural frequency of long free-span underwater pipelines. We conducted a comprehensive verification of our proposed method by comparing its outcomes with those of 212 finite element analysis simulations. The results reveal excellent predictions for long spans. However, for shorter spans, traditional methods remain more accurate. Additionally, we explored the influence of pipeline’s diameter, thickness, and boundary conditions on both static displacement and frequency, providing valuable insights for design considerations. We found that the boundary conditions’ impact on the fundamental frequency becomes negligible for long spans, with up to a 10% difference between pinned–pinned and fixed–fixed conditions. In essence, this research offers a vital enhancement to the existing DNV guidelines, becoming particularly beneficial during the preliminary design phases of pipelines with L/D ratios exceeding 140.
Pareto Optimization of Energy-Saving Timetables Considering the Non-Parallel Operation of Multiple Trains on a Metro Line
Authors: Chen Weiya , Lu Jiaqi , Zhang Hengpeng , Yuan Ziyue
Published: October 2023

In light of reducing train operation energy consumption while maintaining the passenger service level for creating sustainable urban rail transit systems, we address a non-parallel train timetabling problem considering regenerative braking energy utilization and the non-parallel operation of multiple trains on a metro line via a newly proposed multi-objective timetable (MOT) optimization model and an evolutionary algorithm based on NSGA-II. The optimization objectives of the MOT model are to find satisfactory energy-saving timetables on the Pareto frontier by minimizing the total travel time of passengers and minimizing the net energy consumption of trains. An improved multi-objective evolutionary algorithm based on NSGA-II is constructed to generate the optimal arrival and departure times at each station for each train running in a non-parallel operation mode. This study tests the feasibility of the proposed optimization method via an empirical case using the data collected from the Yizhuang Line of the Beijing metro systems in China. The simulation results show that the proposed optimization method satisfies both the energy utilization and passenger service levels along a Pareto front. The MOT improves the overall effectiveness of regenerative braking energy utilization by 29.88% in comparison with the original timetable; it reduces the net operation energy consumption by 44.86% relative to the travel-oriented timetable (TOT); and it reduces the total passenger travel time by 27.18% compared with the energy-oriented timetable (EOT).
Data Envelopment Analysis Approaches for Multiperiod Two-Level Production and Distribution Planning Problems
Authors: Hayashida Tomohiro , Nishizaki Ichiro , Sekizaki Shinya , Okabe Junya
Published: October 2023

This paper deals with two-level production and distribution planning problems in supply chain management where the leader is a distributor and the follower is a manufacturer. Assuming that the distributor can observe the input–output data in the production process, we formulated the data envelopment analysis (DEA) production problem corresponding to the production planning problem of the manufacturer. This paper proposes a novel data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach to solve a challenging multiperiod two-level production and distribution planning problem in supply chain management. The innovative idea behind the proposed approach is to allow the distributor to observe the input–output data regarding the production activities of the manufacturer, even if the distributor cannot fully comprehend all parameters of the manufacturer’s production cost minimization problem. This approach addresses the challenge of uncertain demands by employing a two-stage model with simple recourse and considering the usage of the input–output data. The paper demonstrates the validity of the proposed DEA approaches through computational experiments and discusses the accuracy, reliability, and importance of the input–output data. The proposed approach provides a practical and effective solution to the multiperiod two-level production and distribution planning problem in supply chain management, and can help decision-makers improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations. The innovative idea of allowing the distributor to observe the input–output data about the production activities of the manufacturer is a significant contribution to the field of supply chain management and has the potential to advance the state of the art in this area.
Compactability Regularities Observed during Cold Uniaxial Pressing of Layered Powder Green Samples Based on Ti-Al-Nb-Mo-B and Ti-B
Authors: Bazhin Pavel , Konstantinov Alexander , Chizhikov Andrey , Antipov Mikhail , Stolin Pavel , Avdeeva Varvara , Antonenkova Anna
Published: October 2023

We determined the compactability regularities observed during the cold uniaxial pressing of layered powder green samples, taking into account factors such as composition, height, and number of Ti–B (TiB) and Ti–Al–Nb–Mo–B (TNM) layers. The following composition was chosen for the TNM layer at %: 51.85Ti–43Al–4Nb–1Mo–0.15B, while for the Ti-B layer we selected the composition wt %: Ti-B-(20, 30, 40) Ti. Green samples were made containing both 100 vol % TiB and TNM, and those taken in the following proportions, vol %: 70TiB/30TNM, 50TiB/50TNM, 30TiB/70TNM; multilayer green samples were studied in the following proportions, vol %: 35TiB/30TNM/35TiB, 25TiB/25TNM/25TiB/25TNM, 35TNM/30TiB/35TNM. Based on the obtained rheological data, we determined the rheological characteristics of the layered green samples, including compressibility modulus, compressibility coefficient, relaxation time, and limiting value of linear section deformation. These characteristics were found to vary depending on the composition, height, and number of layers. Our findings revealed that reducing the TNM content in the charge billet composition improves the compaction of powder materials under the given technological parameters of uniaxial cold pressing. Moreover, we observed that increasing the boron content and decreasing the amount of titanium in the Ti–B composition enhances the compactability of powder materials. We also established a relationship between the compaction pressure interval and the density of the layered powder green sample.