bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patellofemoral pain over time: Protocol for a prospective, longitudinal study investigating physical and non-physical features
Authors: Botta Ana Flavia Balotari , Waiteman Marina Cabral , Ducatti Matheus Henrique Maiolini , Garcia Carmen Lúcia Gomes , Farinelli Lucca André Liporoni Bego , Bazett-Jones David Matthew , Briani Ronaldo Valdir , Azevedo Fábio Mícolis de
Published: January 2023

Background

This is a protocol for a prospective longitudinal study that aims to investigate: (1) group-by-time changes over a minimum of 15 months follow-up in patellofemoral pain (PFP) symptoms, biomechanical, muscle function, pain processing, and psychological features; (2) the extent to which changes in biomechanical, muscle function, pain processing, and psychological features are associated with changes in self-reported pain, physical performance measures, self-reported function, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and physical activity level.

Methods

Individuals with PFP (n = 144) and control individuals (n = 85) without PFP were assessed at baseline. Outcomes assessed included: 3D kinematics and kinetics during single leg squat, step-down and single leg hop; maximal torque and rate of torque development of hip abductors and knee extensors/flexors; force steadiness of hip abductors and knee extensors; anterior and lateral trunk endurance; pressure pain thresholds at the center of patella and contralateral shoulder; kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia); pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale); worst self-reported pain (Visual Analogue Scale); physical performance measures (Single Leg Hop Test and Forward Step-Down Test); self-reported function (Anterior Knee Pain Scale); HRQOL (Medical Outcome Short-Form 36), and physical activity level (Baecke’s Questionnaire). Follow-up assessments will be identical to the baseline and will be performed after a minimum of 15 months. Generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) will be used to investigate group-by-time differences. Linear regression models will be used to determine the extent to which changes in biomechanical, muscle function, pain processing, and psychological features are associated with changes in self-reported pain, physical performance measures, self-reported function, HRQOL, and physical activity level.

Discussion

Physical and non-physical features have been previously associated with PFP. However, the present study will be the first to investigate their integrated evolution as part of the natural history of PFP and its progression. In doing so, we will be able to determine their behavior in the long-term, as well as how they prospectively associate with each other and with clinical outcomes. Ultimately, this will provide a greater understanding of predictors of long-term outcome and possible targets for interventions.
Comparison of radiological and clinical outcomes of 3D-printed artificial vertebral body with Titanium mesh cage in single-level anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion: A meta-analysis
Authors: Cheng Haiyang , Luo Gan , Xu Dan , Li Yuqiao , Wang Ziqi , Yang Houzhi , Liu Yang , Jia Yutao , Sun Tianwei
Published: January 2023

Propose

This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether 3D-printed artificial vertebral body have superior clinical and radiographic outcome than Titanium Mesh Cage(TMC) in single-level anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) databases was conducted to find randomized control trials (RCTs) or cohort studies that compared 3D-printed artificial vertebral body with conventional Titanium Mesh Cage (TMC) in single-level anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (SL-ACCF). Operation time; intraoperative blood loss; subsidence of vertebral body; preoperative, and final follow-up C2–C7 Cobb angle, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, and Visual Analog Scale(VAS) scores were collected from eligible studies for meta-analysis.

Results

We included 6 cohort studies with 341 patients. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the 3D group has a shorter operation time than the traditional TMC group(p = 0.04) and the TMC group had more severe subsidence(≥3 mm) of vertebral body than the 3D group(p < 0.0001). And the cervical C2–C7 Cobb angle in the 3D group was larger than that in the TMC group at the final follow-up.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrates that 3D-printed artificial vertebral body is superior to traditional TMC in reducing the operation time and maintaining the postoperative vertebral height and restoring sagittal balance to the cervical spine in single-level anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion.
Equine Melanocytic Tumors: A Narrative Review
Authors: Pimenta José , Prada Justina , Cotovio Mário
Published: January 2023

Adult grey horses have a high incidence of melanocytic tumors. This article narratively reviews the role of some genetic features related to melanoma formation in horses, such as STX17 mutation, ASIP or MITF alterations, and the link between the graying process and the development of these tumors. A clear system of clinical and pathological classification of melanocytic tumors in naevus, dermal melanoma, dermal melanomatosis and anaplastic malignant melanoma is provided. Clinical and laboratorial methods of diagnosing are listed, with fine needle aspiration and histopathology being the most relevant. Relevance is given to immunohistochemistry, describing potentially important diagnostic biomarkers such as RACK1 and PNL2. Different therapeutical options available for equine practitioners are mentioned, with surgery, chemotherapy and electroporation being the most common. This article also elucidatesnew fields of research, perspectives, and new therapeutic targets, such as CD47, PD-1 and COX-2 biomarkers.
Management of Social Behaviour of Domestic Yaks in Manang, Nepal: An Etho-Ethnographic Study
Authors: Johnson Théophile , Pilleboue Emma , Herbrich Maxime , Garine Eric , Sueur Cédric
Published: January 2023

Herdsmen use different techniques, as per varying geographies and cultures, to keep the cohesion within herds and avoid animals getting lost or predated. However, there is no study on the social behaviour of yaks and herdsmen management practices. Therefore, this ethology study was initiated by ethnographic inquiries. In Manang, the success of the shepherd is dictated by his personal attribute of ‘Khula man’ or open-heartedness. This attribute refers to good intentions and emotions such as empathy, which allow the shepherd to focus more on others than on himself. This cultural way of assessing the skills required to become a successful and knowledgeable shepherd guided us to study the effect of cultural values on the herd’s social behaviour. We collected data from two herds living at the same settlement (Yak kharka, 4100 m altitude, Nepal) by equipping them with loggers. One of the herdsmen used the tether rope while the other one did not. Moreover, the Thaku herd had a more proactive shepherd than the Phurba one. In each herd, 17 animals were equipped with one Actigraph wgt3x-BT to measure activity using an accelerometer and spatial associations using a proximity recorder. One of the herds was equipped with GPS (N = 11) as well. Using GPS locations and activity, we showed that the two herds were cohesive and synchronised their activities but the Thaku herd (tether rope herd) was more cohesive than the Phurba herd based on the Actigraph signals. The shepherds also have personal knowledge of the social relationships of individual animals in their herds and use these relationships to keep the group cohesive and to manage cattle well.
Impact of Dietary Supplementation of Spice Extracts on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility and Antioxidant Response in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Herrero-Encinas Javier , Huerta Almudena , Blanch Marta , Pastor José Javier , Morais Sofia , Menoyo David
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of supplementing broiler chicken diets with an encapsulated product based on capsicum and other spice (black pepper and ginger) extracts on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, digestive enzyme activity and antioxidant response. To this end, 480 1-day-old male chicks were randomly assigned to two experimental treatments (12 pens/treatment; 20 birds/pen). Dietary treatments included a basal diet with no additives (CONTROL) and a basal diet supplemented with 250 ppm of the spice additive (SPICY; Lucta S.A., Spain). Supplementation of SPICY increased body weight (p < 0.05) compared with CONTROL at 7 d of age and improved (p < 0.01) ADG from 0 to 7 d of age. The apparent ileal digestibility of dry matter, gross energy and crude protein was higher (p < 0.05) in birds fed the SPICY diet compared with the CONTROL diet. Birds fed SPICY showed lower (p < 0.05) plasma catalase (CAT) activity, and the hepatic gene expression of CAT and Nrf2 was down-regulated (p < 0.05) compared with the CONTROL. In conclusion, the inclusion of 250 ppm of SPICY in broiler diets improved growth performance at 7 d of age and positively affected nutrient digestibility and antioxidant response.
An Integrated Variable-Magnitude Approach for Accessibility Evaluation of Healthcare Institute Web Pages
Authors: Ara Jinat , Sik-Lanyi Cecilia , Kelemen Arpad
Published: January 2023

The World Wide Web has become an important platform for sharing a wide array of information within the world community. In the post-COVID-19 scenario, the web become a primary source of information in the context of healthcare information dissemination. Healthcare institutions, such as hospitals and clinics, utilize this platform to provide services to reach their target users. It is essential to evaluate the web pages of healthcare institutions and compute their accessibility score for people with disabilities or special needs. This paper presents a variable-magnitude approach to compute the accessibility score of healthcare web pages, considering several requirements of people with disabilities. To compute the accessibility score through the proposed approach, we considered two different components and integrated them to compute the accessibility score through the proposed algorithm. The proposed approach was experimentally applied to sixteen healthcare institutes’ web pages in Hungary. Based on the experiment’s results and the received feedback from an accessibility specialist, a set of suggestions is provided to minimize the accessibility barrier and improve the accessibility score for people with disabilities to access web resources without difficulty. The main contribution of this work is in enhancing awareness of web platform accessibility for web practitioners to improve accessibility, so that people with disabilities can effectively access web resources.
Do We Get What We Need from Clinical Acoustic Voice Measurements?
Authors: Brockmann-Bauser Meike , de Paula Soares Maria Francisca
Published: January 2023

Instrumental acoustic measurements of the human voice have enormous potential to objectively describe pathology and, thereby, to assist clinical treatment decisions. Despite the increasing application and accessibility of technical knowledge and equipment, recent research has highlighted a lack of understanding of physiologic, speech/language-, and culture-related influencing factors. This article presents a critical review of the current state of the art in the clinical application of instrumental acoustic voice quality measurements and points out future directions for improving its applications and dissemination in less privileged populations. The main barriers to this research relate to (a) standardization and reporting of acoustic analysis techniques; (b) understanding of the relation between perceptual and instrumental acoustic results; (c) the necessity to account for natural speech-related covariables, such as differences in speaking voice sound pressure level (SPL) and fundamental frequency f0; (d) the need for a much larger database to understand normal variability within and between voice-disordered and vocally healthy individuals related to age, training, and physiologic factors; and (e) affordable equipment, including mobile communication devices, accessible in various settings. This calls for further research into technical developments and optimal assessment procedures for pathology-specific patient groups.
Perturbation Observer-Based Obstacle Detection and Its Avoidance Using Artificial Potential Field in the Unstructured Environment
Authors: Salman Muhammad , Khan Hamza , Lee Min Cheol
Published: January 2023

Different methodologies for manipulators have been proposed and applied to robot obstacle detection and avoidance in unstructured environments. These methods include different real-time sensors, observer-based algorithms, and path planning using genetic algorithms. However, sensor design integration is complex and considerably expensive. Moreover, the observer algorithm requires complete system dynamics information, which is difficult to derive. In this regard, genetic algorithms are typically considered slow and difficult to optimize. Accordingly, this study proposes a sensor-less obstacle detection technique using a nonlinear observer (known as sliding perturbation observer (SPO)). Obstacle avoidance is also implemented using a motion planner (known as artificial potential field (APF)). The SPO is a nonlinear observer that only requires the partial position and provides all other states (such as position, velocity) and perturbation (non-linearities and external disturbance). The SPO estimates the external torque at each joint resulting from contact (i.e., collision) with an obstacle. Obstacles are detected and avoided by integrating the SPO and APF. The estimated external torque detects the obstacle location and a repulsive force from the APF is applied to avoid this obstacle. To achieve obstacle avoidance, the sum of all estimated torques must be zero. The proposed technique is applied to a robot manipulator with five degrees of freedom.
Improved Reptile Search Optimization Algorithm: Application on Regression and Classification Problems
Authors: Khan Muhammad Kamran , Zafar Muhammad Hamza , Rashid Saad , Mansoor Majad , Moosavi Syed Kumayl Raza , Sanfilippo Filippo
Published: January 2023

The reptile search algorithm is a newly developed optimization technique that can efficiently solve various optimization problems. However, while solving high-dimensional nonconvex optimization problems, the reptile search algorithm retains some drawbacks, such as slow convergence speed, high computational complexity, and local minima trapping. Therefore, an improved reptile search algorithm (IRSA) based on a sine cosine algorithm and Levy flight is proposed in this work. The modified sine cosine algorithm with enhanced global search capabilities avoids local minima trapping by conducting a full-scale search of the solution space, and the Levy flight operator with a jump size control factor increases the exploitation capabilities of the search agents. The enhanced algorithm was applied to a set of 23 well-known test functions. Additionally, statistical analysis was performed by considering 30 runs for various performance measures like best, worse, average values, and standard deviation. The statistical results showed that the improved reptile search algorithm gives a fast convergence speed, low time complexity, and efficient global search. For further verification, improved reptile search algorithm results were compared with the RSA and various state-of-the-art metaheuristic techniques. In the second phase of the paper, we used the IRSA to train hyperparameters such as weight and biases for a multi-layer perceptron neural network and a smoothing parameter (σ) for a radial basis function neural network. To validate the effectiveness of training, the improved reptile search algorithm trained multi-layer perceptron neural network classifier was tested on various challenging, real-world classification problems. Furthermore, as a second application, the IRSA-trained RBFNN regression model was used for day-ahead wind and solar power forecasting. Experimental results clearly demonstrated the superior classification and prediction capabilities of the proposed hybrid model. Qualitative, quantitative, comparative, statistical, and complexity analysis revealed improved global exploration, high efficiency, high convergence speed, high prediction accuracy, and low time complexity in the proposed technique.
Regenerative Braking Control Strategy Based on AI Algorithm to Improve Driving Comfort of Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Hwang Myeong Hwan , Lee Gye Seong , Kim Eugene , Kim Hyeon Woo , Yoon Seungha , Talluri Teressa , Cha Hyun Rok
Published: January 2023

Recent studies on autonomous vehicles focus on improving driving efficiency and ignore driving comfort. Because acceleration and jerk affect driving comfort, we propose a comfort regenerative braking system (CRBS) that uses artificial neural networks as a vehicle-control strategy for braking conditions. An autonomous vehicle driving comfort is mainly determined by the control algorithm of the vehicle. If the passenger’s comfort is initially predicted based on acceleration and deceleration limits, the control strategy algorithm can be adjusted, which would be helpful to improve ride comfort in autonomous vehicles. We implement numerical analysis of the control strategy, ensuring reduced jerk conditions. In addition, backward propagation was applied to estimate the braking force limits of the regenerative braking systems more accurately. The developed algorithm was verified through the Car Sim and MATLAB/Simulink simulations by comparing them with the conventional braking system. The proposed CRBS offers effective regenerative braking within limits and ensures increased driving comfort to passengers.
On the Finite Element Modeling of the Lumbar Spine: A Schematic Review
Authors: Sciortino Vincenza , Pasta Salvatore , Ingrassia Tommaso , Cerniglia Donatella
Published: January 2023

Finite element modelling of the lumbar spine is a challenging problem. Lower back pain is among the most common pathologies in the global populations, owing to which the patient may need to undergo surgery. The latter may differ in nature and complexity because of spinal disease and patient contraindications (i.e., aging). Today, the understanding of spinal column biomechanics may lead to better comprehension of the disease progression as well as to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Better insight into the spine’s biomechanics would certainly guarantee an evolution of current device-based treatments. In this setting, the computational approach appears to be a remarkable tool for simulating physiological and pathological spinal conditions, as well as for various aspects of surgery. Patient-specific computational simulations are constantly evolving, and require a number of validation and verification challenges to be overcome before they can achieve true and accurate results. The aim of the present schematic review is to provide an overview of the evolution and recent advances involved in computational finite element modelling (FEM) of spinal biomechanics and of the fundamental knowledge necessary to develop the best modeling approach in terms of trustworthiness and reliability.
Special Issue on “Efficient Damping and Isolation Systems for Civil Structures”
Authors: Weber Felix
Published: January 2023

Civil engineering structures may vibrate due to different sources of excitations such as earthquakes, wind, traffic, humans, etc [...]
Development of a Spatial Heterodyne Terahertz Raman Spectrometer with Echelle Gratings
Authors: Sun Yuqi , Li Xiaotian , Galantu Jiri , Chu Qihang , Chen Jun , Li Fuguan , Song Nan , Wang Geng , Ni Qiliang
Published: January 2023

This paper introduces an echelle grating spatial heterodyne terahertz Raman spectrometer (E-SHTRS) that combines echelle gratings with spatial heterodyne terahertz Raman spectroscopy technology by replacing the gratings on the interference arms with 36 gr/mm echelle gratings. Echelle gratings are characterized by high diffraction levels and multi-level simultaneous diffraction capability, giving the E-SHTRS higher spectral resolution and a wider detection band range than the conventional spectrometer. The system’s resolution can reach 1.37 cm−1. The spectral detection range of a single level of the proposed system is 701.61 cm−1. A total of nine levels are used in the system, giving a total spectral detection range of 6314 cm−1. Using this system, terahertz Raman spectroscopy of organic acid samples was performed, some food additives and medicines were measured, and a salicylic acid aqueous solution was measured with a minimum measurable concentration of 0.01 mol/L. In addition, the samples were detected over a wide band (10–5131 cm−1) to acquire more complete spectral information. These experiments verify that the E-SHTRS offers good detection performance and has a wide range of possible applications, including a theoretical support role in food safety, biomedicine, environmental protection, and other fields.
Effects of FAME Biofuel and Jet A-1 Aviation Kerosene Blends on the Operating Characteristics of Aircraft Jet Engines
Authors: Hocko Marián , Al-Rabeei Samer , Koščáková Martina
Published: January 2023

The article investigates the possibilities for the miscibility and practical use of different concentrations of biofuel rapeseed fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) with aviation kerosene Jet A-1 (or aviation kerosene PL-7 used in the Air Force of the Slovak Republic) in aircraft jet engines. The main objective of this research was the experimental verification of the technical possibilities of reliable operation of the experimental engine SJE-20 in a special laboratory of small jet engines using different concentrations of the mixture of aviation kerosene Jet A-1 and biofuel FAME and their influence on the selected operating parameters of the experimental engine. The motivation for this research is the desire to replace conventional aviation fuels with fuels that can be obtained from renewable sources. Investigation of the possibilities of powering the experimental SJE-20 engine with a mixture of traditional aviation kerosene Jet A-1 (PL-7) and rapeseed fatty acid methyl ester FAME was the subject of the internal project BIOFUEL (Biofuel for Aviation).
Special Issue on Emission Control and Characterization in Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Piqueras Pedro , De la Morena Joaquín
Published: January 2023

Electrified powertrains have appeared in recent years as part of the solution to achieve the aggressive targets established for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2 [...]
Anthropogenic NOx Emission Estimations over East China for 2015 and 2019 Using OMI Satellite Observations and the New Inverse Modeling System CIF-CHIMERE
Authors: Savas Dilek , Dufour Gaëlle , Coman Adriana , Siour Guillaume , Fortems-Cheiney Audrey , Broquet Grégoire , Pison Isabelle , Berchet Antoine , Bessagnet Bertrand
Published: January 2023

The Chinese government introduced regulations to control emissions and reduce the level of NOx pollutants for the first time with the 12th Five-Year Plan in 2011. Since then, the changes in NOx emissions have been assessed using various approaches to evaluate the impact of the regulations. Complementary to the previous studies, this study estimates anthropogenic NOx emissions in 2015 and 2019 over Eastern China using as a reference the Hemispheric Transport of Air Pollution (HTAP) v2.2 emission inventory for 2010 and the new variational inversion system the Community Inversion Framework (CIF) interfaced with the CHIMERE regional chemistry transport model and OMI satellite observations. We also compared the estimated NOx emissions with the independent Multi-resolution Emission Inventory for China (MEIC) v1.3, from 2015. The inversions show a slight global decrease in NOx emissions (in 2015 and 2019 compared to 2010), mainly limited to the most urbanized and industrialized locations. In the locations such as Baotou, Pearl River Delta, and Wuhan, the estimations in 2015 compared to 2010 are consistent with the target reduction (10%) of the 12th Five-Year Plan. Comparisons between our emission estimates and MEIC emissions in 2015 suggest that our estimates likely underestimate the emission reductions between 2010 and 2015 in the most polluted locations of Eastern China. However, our estimates suggest that the MEIC inventory overestimates emissions in regions where MEIC indicates an increase of the emissions compared to 2010.
Simulation of the Ozone Concentration in Three Regions of Xinjiang, China, Using a Genetic Algorithm-Optimized BP Neural Network Model
Authors: Zhao Qilong , Jiang Kui , Talifu Dilinuer , Gao Bo , Wang Xinming , Abulizi Abulikemu , Zhang Xiaohui , Liu Bowen
Published: January 2023

Accurate ozone concentration simulation can provide a health reference for people’s daily lives. Simulating ozone concentrations is a complex task because near-surface ozone production is determined by a combination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and NOx emissions, atmospheric photochemical reactions, and meteorological factors. In this study, we applied a genetic algorithm-optimized back propagation (GA-BP) neural network, multiple linear regression (MLR), BP neural network, random forest (RF) algorithm, and long short-term memory network (LSTM) to model ozone concentrations in three regions of Xinjiang, China (Urumqi, Hotan, and Dushanzi districts) for the first time by inputting wind speed, humidity, visibility, temperature, and wind direction. The results showed that the average relative errors of the model simulations in the Urumqi, Hotan, and Dushanzi districts were BP (61%, 14%, and 16%), MLR (97%, 14%, and 23%), RF (39%, 11%, and 14%), LSTM (50%, 12%, and 16%), and GA-BP (16%, 4%, and 6%) and that the significance coefficients R2 were BP (0.73, 0.65, and 0.83), MLR (0.68, 0.62, and 0.74), RF (0.85, 0.80, and 0.88), LSTM (0.78, 0.74, and 0.85), and GA-BP (0.92, 0.93, and 0.94), respectively, with the simulated values of GA-BP being the closest to the true values. The GA-BP model results showed that among the 100 samples with the same wind speed, humidity, visibility, temperature, and wind direction data, the highest simulated ozone concentrations in the Urumqi, Hotan, and Dushanzi districts were 173.5 μg/m3, 114.3 μg/m3, and 228.4 μg/m3, respectively. The results provide a theoretical basis for the effective control of regional ozone pollution in urban areas (Urumqi), dusty areas (Hotan), and industrial areas (Dushanzi) in Xinjiang.
Extracellular Vesicles: New Classification and Tumor Immunosuppression
Authors: Sheta Mona , Taha Eman A. , Lu Yanyin , Eguchi Takanori
Published: January 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membrane-surrounded vesicles carrying various types of molecules. These EV cargoes are often used as pathophysiological biomarkers and delivered to recipient cells whose fates are often altered in local and distant tissues. Classical EVs are exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, while recent studies discovered autophagic EVs, stressed EVs, and matrix vesicles. Here, we classify classical and new EVs and non-EV nanoparticles. We also review EVs-mediated intercellular communication between cancer cells and various types of tumor-associated cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, adipocytes, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and immune cells. Of note, cancer EVs play crucial roles in immunosuppression, immune evasion, and immunotherapy resistance. Thus, cancer EVs change hot tumors into cold ones. Moreover, cancer EVs affect nonimmune cells to promote cellular transformation, including epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), chemoresistance, tumor matrix production, destruction of biological barriers, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and metastatic niche formation.
Climate Change Helps Polar Invasives Establish and Flourish: Evidence from Long-Term Monitoring of the Blowfly Calliphora vicina
Authors: Daly Ella Z. , Gerlich Hannah Sørine , Frenot Yves , Høye Toke T. , Holmstrup Martin , Renault David
Published: January 2023

The isolated sub-Antarctic islands are of major ecological interest because of their unique species diversity and long history of limited human disturbance. However, since the presence of Europeans, these islands and their sensitive biota have been under increasing pressure due to human activity and associated biological invasions. In such delicate ecosystems, biological invasions are an exceptional threat that may be further amplified by climate change. We examined the invasion trajectory of the blowfly Calliphora vicina (Robineau-Desvoidy 1830). First introduced in the sub-Antarctic Kerguelen Islands in the 1970s, it is thought to have persisted only in sheltered microclimates for several decades. Here, we show that, in recent decades, C. vicina has been able to establish itself more widely. We combine experimental thermal developmental data with long-term ecological and meteorological monitoring to address whether warming conditions help explain its current success and dynamics in the eastern Kerguelen Islands. We found that warming temperatures and accumulated degree days could explain the species’ phenological and long-term invasion dynamics, indicating that climate change has likely assisted its establishment. This study represents a unique long-term view of a polar invader and stresses the rapidly increasing susceptibility of cold regions to invasion under climate change.
Olfactory Impairment Correlates with Executive Functions Disorders and Other Specific Cognitive Dysfunctions in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Solla Paolo , Masala Carla , Ercoli Tommaso , Frau Claudia , Bagella Caterina , Pinna Ilenia , Loy Francesco , Defazio Giovanni
Published: January 2023

Introduction. Olfactory and cognitive disorders represent important non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD). No clear evidence was reported about association of specific cognitive domains and olfactory impairment. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between olfactory dysfunction and specific cognitive domains in PD patients compared to controls. Methods. 178 PD patients and 98 controls were enrolled and evaluated for odor threshold (OT), discrimination (OD), identification (OI), and TDI score using the Sniffin’ Sticks test. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale with six sub-scores: Orientation (OIS), Attention (AIS), Language (LIS), Visuospatial (VIS), Memory (MIS), and Executive index scores (EIS). Results. Statistically significant correlations were observed between OT versus, LIS, and between TDI score versus EIS. Multivariate linear regression analysis, including age and sex which are well-known predictors of olfactory dysfunction, showed that, among specific cognitive domains, only LIS was significant predictor for OT, VIS was a significant predictor for OD, while both EIS and AIS were significant predictors for OI, and finally only EIS was significant predictor for TDI score. Conclusions. Olfactory disorders in PD patients appear commonly related to dysfunction of specific cognitive domains, with strict association between global olfactory impairment and executive function deficits.
Fibrous or Prismatic? A Comparison of the Lamello-Fibrillar Nacre in Early Cambrian and Modern Lophotrochozoans
Authors: Li Luoyang , Betts Marissa J. , Yun Hao , Pan Bing , Topper Timothy P. , Li Guoxiang , Zhang Xingliang , Skovsted Christian B.
Published: January 2023

The Precambrian–Cambrian interval saw the first appearance of disparate modern metazoan phyla equipped with a wide array of mineralized exo- and endo-skeletons. However, the current knowledge of this remarkable metazoan skeletonization bio-event and its environmental interactions is limited because uncertainties have persisted in determining the mineralogy, microstructure, and hierarchical complexity of these earliest animal skeletons. This study characterizes in detail a previously poorly understood fibrous microstructure—the lamello-fibrillar (LF) nacre—in early Cambrian mollusk and hyolith shells and compares it with shell microstructures in modern counterparts (coleoid cuttlebones and serpulid tubes). This comparative study highlights key differences in the LF nacre amongst different lophotrochozoan groups in terms of mineralogical compositions and architectural organization of crystals. The results demonstrate that the LF nacre is a microstructural motif confined to the Mollusca. This study demonstrates that similar fibrous microstructure in Cambrian mollusks and hyoliths actually represent a primitive type of prismatic microstructure constituted of calcitic prisms. Revision of these fibrous microstructures in Cambrian fossils demonstrates that calcitic shells are prevalent in the so-called aragonite sea of the earliest Cambrian. This has important implications for understanding the relationship between seawater chemistry and skeletal mineralogy at the time when skeletons were first acquired by early lophotrochozoan biomineralizers.
Morphological and Tissue Characterization with 3D Reconstruction of a 350-Year-Old Austrian Ardea purpurea Glacier Mummy
Authors: Unterberger Seraphin H. , Berger Cordula , Schirmer Michael , Pallua Anton Kasper , Zelger Bettina , Schäfer Georg , Kremser Christian , Degenhart Gerald , Spiegl Harald , Erler Simon , Putzer David , Arora Rohit , Parson Walther , Pallua Johannes Dominikus
Published: January 2023

Glaciers are dwindling archives, releasing animal mummies preserved in the ice for centuries due to climate changes. As preservation varies, residual soft tissues may differently expand the biological information content of such mummies. DNA studies have proven the possibility of extracting and analyzing DNA preserved in skeletal residuals and sediments for hundreds or thousands of years. Paleoradiology is the method of choice as a non-destructive tool for analyzing mummies, including micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Together with radiocarbon dating, histo-anatomical analyses, and DNA sequencing, these techniques were employed to identify a 350-year-old Austrian Ardea purpurea glacier mummy from the Ötztal Alps. Combining these techniques proved to be a robust methodological concept for collecting inaccessible information regarding the structural organization of the mummy. The variety of methodological approaches resulted in a distinct picture of the morphological patterns of the glacier animal mummy. The BLAST search in GenBank resulted in a 100% and 98.7% match in the cytb gene sequence with two entries of the species Purple heron (Ardea purpurea; Accession number KJ941160.1 and KJ190948.1) and a 98% match with the same species for the 16 s sequence (KJ190948.1), which was confirmed by the anatomic characteristics deduced from micro-CT and MRI.
The Combined Administration of Vitamin C and Copper Induces a Systemic Oxidative Stress and Kidney Injury
Authors: Jiang Rui , Sui Yang , Hong Jingru , Niimi Manabu , Yan Qiaojing , Shi Zhuheng , Yao Jian
Published: January 2023

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid; AA) and copper (Cu2+) are well used supplements with many health-promoting actions. However, when they are used in combination, the Fenton reaction occurs, leading to the formation of highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. Given that kidney is vulnerable to many toxicants including free radicals, we speculated that the in vivo administration of AA plus Cu2+ may cause oxidative kidney injury. The purpose of this study was to address this possibility. Mice were administered with AA and Cu2+, alone or in combination, via oral gavage once a day for various periods. Changes in the systemic oxidative status, as well renal structure and functions, were examined. The administration of AA plus Cu2+ elevated protein oxidation in serum, intestine, bladder, and kidney, as evidenced by the increased sulfenic acid formation and decreased level of free sulfhydryl groups (-SH). The systemic oxidative stress induced by AA plus Cu2+ was associated with a significant loss of renal function and structure, as indicated by the increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and urinary proteins, as well as glomerular and tubular cell injury. These effects of AA and Cu2+ were only observed when used in combination, and could be entirely prevented by thiol antioxidant NAC. Further analysis using cultured renal tubular epithelial cells revealed that AA plus Cu2+ caused cellular protein oxidation and cell death, which could be abolished by NAC and catalase. Moreover, coincubation of AA and Cu2+ led to H2O2 production. Collectively, our study revealed that a combined administration of AA and Cu2+ resulted in systemic oxidative stress and renal cell injury. As health-promoting supplements, AA and Cu2+ should not be used together.
Consecutive Injection of High-Dose Lipopolysaccharide Modulates Microglia Polarization via TREM2 to Alter Status of Septic Mice
Authors: Qiu Zhiyun , Wang Huilin , Qu Mengdi , Zhu Shuainan , Zhang Hao , Liao Qingwu , Miao Changhong
Published: January 2023

Background: The neuroinflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) is a prevalent syndrome of brain dysfunction secondary to severe sepsis and is regulated by microglia. Triggering the receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is known to have protective functions that modulate the microglial polarization of M2 type to reduce inflammatory responses, thereby improving cognition. Methods: We examined the effect of TREM2 on the polarization state of microglia during the progression of neuroinflammation. After consecutive intraperitoneal injections of lipopolysaccharide for 7 days, we evaluated the inflammation of a septic mice model by hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and electron microscopy, and we used immunofluorescence (IF) assays and Western blotting to visualize hippocampal sections in C57BL/6 mice to assess TREM2 expression. In addition, we analyzed the state of microglia polarization with quantitative RT-PCR. Result: The consecutive injection of LPS for 4 days elevated systemic inflammation and caused behavioral cognitive dysfunction in the septic model. However, on Day 7, the neuroinflammation was considerably attenuated. Meanwhile, TREM2 decreased on Day 4 and increased on Day 7 in vivo. Consistently, LPS could reduce the expression of TREM2 while IFN-β enhanced TREM2 expression in vitro. TREM2 regulated the microglial M1 phenotype’s conversion to the M2 phenotype. Conclusion: Our aim in this study was to investigate the interconnection between microglia polarization and TREM2 in neuroinflammation. Our results suggested that IFN-β could modulate TREM2 expression to alter the polarization state of microglia, thereby reducing LPS-induced neuroinflammation. Therefore, TREM2 is a novel potential therapeutic target for neuroinflammation.
Analysis of Object Deformations Printed by Extrusion of Concrete Mixtures Using 3D Scanning
Authors: Mendřický Radomír , Keller Petr
Published: January 2023

Additive technologies in construction and architecture are becoming more and more popular. Due to their advantages, concrete extrusion technologies have great potential for the future. One of the important parameters is the quality and precision achieved in the entire building process. This study investigates the search for a methodology to verify the quality of three-dimensional (3D) printing from concrete mixtures not just as an indication of the resulting accuracy of the process but to monitor the behavior of the printed object in the period immediately after the printing for a period of 28 days. Research has confirmed, among other things, that one of the main causes of dimensional changes over time is shrinkage, which occurs primarily in the length and height directions of the object. The drying behavior of the material also depends on the thickness of the wall, with the thicker parts of the element shrinking more slowly than the thin and peripheral parts. The research also confirmed the hypothesis that digitization using 3D optical scanning could be used for complex three-dimensional analysis of the dimensional accuracy and dimensional stability of concrete elements produced by 3D printing. However, due to the surface structure of printed objects, specific inspection procedures need to be chosen, which are analyzed and described in this paper.
Dynamic Characterisation of a Heritage Structure with Limited Accessibility Using Ambient Vibrations
Authors: Bakkar Ahmad R. , Elyamani Ahmed , El-Attar Adel G. , Bompa Dan V. , Elghazouli Ahmed Y. , Mourad Sherif A.
Published: January 2023

Historic Cairo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It has more than 600 historic structures, which require extensive studies to sustain their cultural, religious, and economic values. The main aim of this paper is to undertake dynamic investigation tests for the dome of Fatima Khatun, a historic mausoleum in Historic Cairo dating back to the 13th century and consisting of mainly bricks and stones. The challenge was that the structure was difficult to access, and only a small portion of the top was accessible for the attachment of accelerometers. Current dynamic identification procedures typically adopt methods in which the sensors are arranged at optimal locations and permit direct assessment of the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios of a structure. Approaches that allow for the evaluation of dynamic response for structures with limited accessibility are lacking. To this end, in addition to in situ dynamic investigation tests, a numerical model was created based on available architectural, structural, and material documentation to obtain detailed insight into the dominant modes of vibration. The free vibration analysis of the numerical model identified the dynamic properties of the structure using reasonable assumptions on boundary conditions. System identification, which was carried out using in situ dynamic investigation tests and input from modelling, captured three experimental natural frequencies of the structure with their mode shapes and damping ratios. The approach proposed in this study informs and directs structural restoration for the mausoleum and can be used for other heritage structures located in congested historic sites.
Experimental Investigation of Light Steel Framing Walls under Horizontal Loading
Authors: Lopes Dalila M. , Duarte António P. C. , Silvestre Nuno
Published: January 2023

The mechanical behavior of light steel framing (LSF) walls under horizontal (shear) loadings is reported and assessed in this paper. In total, an experimental program with twelve LSF walls (six under monotonic and six under cyclic loading) was conducted, and the main parameters investigated were (i) the thickness and (ii) the material used as the cladding (OSB, a plasterboard, and a steel sheet), (iii) the spacing between fasteners (150 or 75 mm), and (iv) the influence of using steel bracing elements. It is concluded that doubling the number of fasteners and increasing the thickness of OSB by 80% lead to increases in ultimate loads, respectively, of 33 and 13%. The ductility index of the walls with steel sheets was 50 to 75% lower than those of the remaining walls. The wall with the steel strap x-bracing system presented (i) the lowest initial rigidity (a diaphragm effect could not be triggered with these elements) and (ii) the highest damage extent at the end of testing (a damage parameter of 0.85, due to damage of the steel strap-to-steel structure connection). It is confirmed that the results obtained with testing of the walls under a monotonic load can be good predictors of their behavior under cyclic loading as, for instance, the ultimate loads of walls under both loading cases present an average difference of 4%.
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus: Infection, Genome, Transcripts and Its Role in Development of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Houben Roland , Celikdemir Büke , Kervarrec Thibault , Schrama David
Published: January 2023

The best characterized polyomavirus family member, i.e., simian virus 40 (SV40), can cause different tumors in hamsters and can transform murine and human cells in vitro. Hence, the SV40 contamination of millions of polio vaccine doses administered from 1955–1963 raised fears that this may cause increased tumor incidence in the vaccinated population. This is, however, not the case. Indeed, up to now, the only polyomavirus family member known to be the most important cause of a specific human tumor entity is Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). MCC is a highly deadly form of skin cancer for which the cellular origin is still uncertain, and which appears as two clinically very similar but molecularly highly different variants. While approximately 80% of cases are found to be associated with MCPyV the remaining MCCs carry a high mutational load. Here, we present an overview of the multitude of molecular functions described for the MCPyV encoded oncoproteins and non-coding RNAs, present the available MCC mouse models and discuss the increasing evidence that both, virus-negative and -positive MCC constitute epithelial tumors.
A Systemic and Integrated Analysis of p63-Driven Regulatory Networks in Mouse Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Glathar Alexandra Ruth , Oyelakin Akinsola , Nayak Kasturi Bala , Sosa Jennifer , Romano Rose-Anne , Sinha Satrajit
Published: January 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy of the oral cavity and is linked to tobacco exposure, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus infection. Despite therapeutic advances, a lack of molecular understanding of disease etiology, and delayed diagnoses continue to negatively affect survival. The identification of oncogenic drivers and prognostic biomarkers by leveraging bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing datasets of OSCC can lead to more targeted therapies and improved patient outcomes. However, the generation, analysis, and continued utilization of additional genetic and genomic tools are warranted. Tobacco-induced OSCC can be modeled in mice via 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO), which generates a spectrum of neoplastic lesions mimicking human OSCC and upregulates the oncogenic master transcription factor p63. Here, we molecularly characterized established mouse 4NQO treatment-derived OSCC cell lines and utilized RNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing to uncover the global p63 gene regulatory and signaling network. We integrated our p63 datasets with published bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing of mouse 4NQO-treated tongue and esophageal tumors, respectively, to generate a p63-driven gene signature that sheds new light on the role of p63 in murine OSCC. Our analyses reveal known and novel players, such as COTL1, that are regulated by p63 and influence various oncogenic processes, including metastasis. The identification of new sets of potential biomarkers and pathways, some of which are functionally conserved in human OSCC and can prognosticate patient survival, offers new avenues for future mechanistic studies.