bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contamination of the Lower Layer in Sloped Tunnel Fires
Authors: Ortega Elio , Viegas João C. , Coelho Pedro J.
Published: June 2023

Fires in tunnels are a major concern due to the casualties they may cause. Therefore, forced ventilation is mandatory in long tunnels, despite the significant associated costs. In shorter tunnels, however, natural ventilation may be sufficient to comply with safety regulations. Accordingly, the analysis of natural fire smoke flow is relevant for tunnels shorter than 1000 m. This paper presents a computational investigation of the influence of the tunnel slope on the contamination of the cold lower layer with smoke and discusses how it impairs the user’s egress. Large-eddy simulations of the smoke propagation show three different regimes, namely, a quasi-horizontal tunnel behavior for a slope of 0.5%, a transitional behavior for slopes in the range of 1% to 5% and a quasi-forced ventilation behavior for a slope of 7%. The computational results are compared with the application of 1D equations to predict the upper layer temperature, the average mass flow rate, the upper layer mass flow rate, the upper layer velocity and the lower layer velocity. The distance from the fire to the location where the lower layer contamination with smoke starts is accurately predicted by the one-dimensional model for slopes of 2% and 3.5%. However, in the case of lower or higher slopes, the one-dimensional model performs poorly and needs further improvement.
Increased Temperature and Discharge Influence Overwinter Growth and Survival of Juvenile Salmonids in a Hydropeaking River: Simulating Effects of Climate Change Using Individual-Based Modelling
Authors: Watz Johan , Schill Joel , Addo Louis , Piccolo John J. , Hajiesmaeili Mahboobeh
Published: June 2023

Climate change causes warming of rivers and may increase discharge, particularly during winter. Downstream of hydropower plants, fluctuating water temperature and flow create dynamic overwintering conditions for juvenile salmonids. We used inSTREAM 7.2-SD to simulate the effects of increased temperature (+2 °C) and discharge (+10%) on the overwinter growth and mortality of one-summer- and two-summer-old Atlantic salmon and brown trout in a river with a hydropeaking flow regime in a 2 × 2 design with replicated simulations. Water temperature had a major positive relationship with growth for both species and year classes, whereas increased flow alone had no major general effect on overwinter growth. For one-summer-old trout experiencing the high temperature regime, however, increased flow resulted in reduced growth. There were no major effects from temperature and flow on the survival rate of the two-summer-old fishes. On the other hand, there were significant interaction effects for the one-summer-olds, indicating that the effect of flow depended on temperature. For one-summer-old salmon, high flow resulted in increased survival in the low temperature regime, whereas it resulted in reduced survival in high temperature. In contrast, for one-summer-old trout, high flow resulted in reduced survival in the low temperature regime and increased survival in the high temperature. Different hydropower operation alternatives may interact with warming, affecting the relative competitive abilities of stream salmonids. Ecological models that predict the effects of different environmental conditions, such as temperature and flow regimes, may offer insight into such effects when in situ experiments are not feasible.
DropletAI: Deep Learning-Based Classification of Fluids with Different Ohnesorge Numbers during Non-Contact Dispensing
Authors: Sardana Pranshul , Zolfaghari Mohammadreza , Miotto Guilherme , Zengerle Roland , Brox Thomas , Koltay Peter , Kartmann Sabrina
Published: June 2023

The reliable non-contact dispensing of droplets in the pico- to microliter range is a challenging task. The dispensed drop volume depends on various factors such as the rheological properties of the liquids, the actuation parameters, the geometry of the dispenser, and the ambient conditions. Conventionally, the rheological properties are characterized via a rheometer, but this adds a large liquid overhead. Fluids with different Ohnesorge number values produce different spatiotemporal motion patterns during dispensing. Once the Ohnesorge number is known, the ratio of viscosity and surface tension of the liquid can be known. However, there exists no mathematical formulation to extract the Ohnesorge number values from these motion patterns. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are great tools for extracting information from spatial and spatiotemporal data. The current study compares seven different CNN architectures to classify five liquids with different Ohnesorge numbers. Next, this work compares the results of various data cleaning conditions, sampling strategies, and the amount of data used for training. The best-performing model was based on the ECOmini-18 architecture. It reached a test accuracy of 94.2% after training on two acquisition batches (a total of 12,000 data points).
Subcritical and Supercritical Fluids to Valorize Industrial Fruit and Vegetable Waste
Authors: Afraz Muhammad Talha , Xu Xindong , Adil Muhammad , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Zeng Xin-An , Han Zhong , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: June 2023

The valorization of industrial fruit and vegetable waste has gained significant attention due to the environmental concerns and economic opportunities associated with its effective utilization. This review article comprehensively discusses the application of subcritical and supercritical fluid technologies in the valorization process, highlighting the potential benefits of these advanced extraction techniques for the recovery of bioactive compounds and unconventional oils from waste materials. Novel pressurized fluid extraction techniques offer significant advantages over conventional methods, enabling effective and sustainable processes that contribute to greener production in the global manufacturing sector. Recovered bio-extract compounds can be used to uplift the nutritional profile of other food products and determine their application in the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. Valorization processes also play an important role in coping with the increasing demand for bioactive compounds and natural substitutes. Moreover, the integration of spent material in biorefinery and biorefining processes is also explored in terms of energy generation, such as biofuels or electricity, thus showcasing the potential for a circular economy approach in the management of waste streams. An economic evaluation is presented, detailing the cost analysis and potential barriers in the implementation of these valorization strategies. The article emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers to enable the widespread adoption of these promising technologies. This, in turn, will contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy, maximizing the potential of fruit and vegetable waste as a source of valuable products.
Amino Acid Composition of a Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) Skin Gelatin Hydrolysate and Its Antiapoptotic Effects on Etoposide-Induced Osteoblasts
Authors: Liu Hong-Fang , Pan Xiao-Wen , Li Hua-Qiang , Zhang Xiao-Nan , Zhao Xin-Huai
Published: June 2023

A gelatin hydrolysate with a hydrolysis degree of 13.7% was generated using the skin gelatin of chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) and papain-catalyzed enzymatic hydrolysis. The results of analysis demonstrated that four amino acids, namely Ala, Gly, Pro, and 4-Hyp, were the most abundant in the obtained gelatin hydrolysate with measured molar percentages ranging from 7.2% to 35.4%; more importantly, the four amino acids accounted for 2/3 of the total measured amino acids. However, two amino acids, Cys and Tyr, were not detected in the generated gelatin hydrolysate. The experimental results indicated that the gelatin hydrolysate at a dose of 50 µg/mL could combat etoposide-induced apoptosis in human fetal osteoblasts (hFOB 1.19 cells), causing a decrease in the total apoptotic cells from 31.6% to 13.6% (via apoptotic prevention) or 13.3% to 11.8% (via apoptotic reversal). Meanwhile, the osteoblasts exposed to the gelatin hydrolysate showed expression changes for 157 genes (expression folds > 1.5-fold), among which JNKK, JNK1, and JNK3 were from the JNK family with a 1.5–2.7-fold downregulated expression. Furthermore, the protein expressions of JNKK, JNK1, JNK3, and Bax in the treated osteoblasts showed a 1.25–1.41 fold down-regulation, whereas JNK2 expression was not detected in the osteoblasts. It is thus suggested that gelatin hydrolysate is rich in the four amino acids and has an in vitro antiapoptotic effect on etoposide-stimulated osteoblasts via mitochondrial-mediated JNKK/JNK(1,3)/Bax downregulation.
Quantitation of L-cystine in Food Supplements and Additives Using 1H qNMR: Method Development and Application
Authors: Chen Zhen , Lian Xiaofang , Zhou Meichen , Zhang Xiuli , Wang Cong
Published: June 2023

Cystine-enriched food supplements are increasingly popular due to their beneficial health effects. However, the lack of industry standards and market regulations resulted in quality issues with cystine food products, including cases of food adulteration and fraud. This study established a reliable and practical method for determining cystine in food supplements and additives using quantitative NMR (qNMR). With the optimized testing solvent, acquisition time, and relaxation delay, the method exhibited higher sensitivity, precision, and reproducibility than the conventional titrimetric method. Additionally, it was more straightforward and more economical than HPLC and LC-MS. Furthermore, the current qNMR method was applied to investigate different food supplements and additives regarding cystine quantity. As a result, four of eight food supplement samples were found to be inaccurately labeled or even with fake labeling, with the relative actual amount of cystine ranging from 0.3% to 107.2%. In comparison, all three food additive samples exhibited satisfactory quality (the relative actual amount of cystine: 97.0–99.9%). Notably, there was no obvious correlation between the quantifiable properties (price and labeled cystine amount) of the tested food supplement samples and their relative actual amount of cystine. The newly developed qNMR-based approach and the subsequent findings might help standardization and regulation of the cystine supplement market.
Advances in Starch Nanoparticle for Emulsion Stabilization
Authors: Zhou Jianwei , Guo Meimei , Qin Yu , Wang Wenjun , Lv Ruiling , Xu Enbo , Ding Tian , Liu Donghong , Wu Zhengzong
Published: June 2023

Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) are generally defined as starch grains smaller than 600–1000 nm produced from a series of physical, chemical, or biologically modified starches. Many studies have reported the preparation and modification of SNPs, which are mostly based on the traditional “top-down” strategy. The preparation process generally has problems with process complexity, long reaction periods, low yield, high energy consumption, poor repeatability, etc. A “bottom-up” strategy, such as an anti-solvent method, is proven to be suitable for the preparation of SNPs, and they are synthesized with small particle size, good repeatability, a low requirement on equipment, simple operation, and great development potential. The surface of raw starch contains a large amount of hydroxyl and has a high degree of hydrophilicity, while SNP is a potential emulsifier for food and non-food applications.
Short-Term Changes in Aroma-Related Volatiles in Meat Model: Effect of Fat and D. hansenii Inoculation
Authors: Li Lei , Belloch Carmela , Flores Mónica
Published: June 2023

This study assessed the effect of replacing pork lard with coconut oil and Debaryomyces hansenii inoculation on the biotransformation of amino acids into volatile compounds in a meat model system. Yeast counts, solid-phase microextraction, and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry were used to assess yeast growth and volatile production, respectively. Yeast growth was confirmed until 28 d, although the volatile profile changed until 39 d. Forty-three volatiles were quantified, and their odor activity values (OAVs) were calculated. The presence of fat and yeasts contributed to differences in volatiles. In pork lard models, a delayed formation of lipid-derived aldehyde compounds was observed, whereas in coconut oil models, the generation of acid compounds and their respective esters was enhanced. Yeast activity affected amino acid degradation, which produced an increase in branched-chain aldehydes and alcohols. The aroma profile in the coconut models was influenced by hexanal, acid compounds, and their respective esters, whereas in pork lard models, aroma was affected by methional (musty, potato) and 3-methylbutanal (green, cocoa). The yeast inoculation contributed to the generation of 3-methylbutanoic acid (cheesy) and phenylethyl alcohol (floral). The type of fat and yeast inoculation produced a differential effect on the aroma.
Effects of Sun Withering Degree on Black Tea Quality Revealed via Non-Targeted Metabolomics
Authors: Wu Zhuanrong , Jiao Yuanfang , Jiang Xinfeng , Li Chen , Sun Weijiang , Chen Yuqiong , Yu Zhi , Ni Dejiang
Published: June 2023

In this study, the effects of different sun withering degrees (75% (CK), 69% (S69), 66% (S66), 63% (S63), and 60% (S60) water content in the withered leaves) on black tea sensory quality were investigated by means of sensory evaluation plus metabolomics analysis. Sensory evaluation results showed higher sensory quality scores for the black tea in S69–S66, due to better freshness, sweeter taste, and a sweet and even floral and fruity aroma. Additionally, 65 non-volatile components were identified using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole-Time of Flight-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS). Among them, the content increase of amino acids and theaflavins was found to promote the freshness and sweetness of black tea. The aroma of tea was analyzed using combined Solvent Assisted Flavor Evaporation-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (SAFE-GC-MS) and Headspace-Solid Phase Micro Extract-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), and 180 volatiles were identified, including 38 variable importance in projection (VIP) > 1 (p < 0.05) and 25 Odor Activity Value (OAV) > 1 volatiles. Statistical analysis revealed 11 volatiles as potential major aroma differential metabolites in black tea with a different sun withering degree, such as volatile terpenoids (linalool, geraniol, (E)-citral, and β-myrcene), amino-acid-derived volatiles (benzeneethanol, benzeneacetaldehyde, and methyl salicylate), carotenoid-derived volatiles (jasmone and β-damascenone), and fatty-acid-derived volatiles ((Z)-3-hexen-1-ol and (E)-2-hexenal). Among them, volatile terpenoids and amino acid derived volatiles mainly contributed to the floral and fruity aroma quality of sun-withered black tea.
Further Generalizations of Some Fractional Integral Inequalities
Authors: Chen Dong , Anwar Matloob , Farid Ghulam , Yasmeen Hafsa
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to establish generalized fractional integral inequalities for operators containing Mittag–Leffler functions. By applying (α,h−m)−p-convexity of real valued functions, generalizations of many well-known inequalities are obtained. Hadamard-type inequalities for various classes of functions are given in particular cases.
Universal Behavior of Fractal Water Structures Observed in Various Gelation Mechanisms of Polymer Gels, Supramolecular Gels, and Cement Gels
Authors: Yagihara Shin , Watanabe Seiei , Abe Yuta , Asano Megumi , Shimizu Kenta , Saito Hironobu , Maruyama Yuko , Kita Rio , Shinyashiki Naoki , Kundu Shyamal Kumar
Published: June 2023

So far, it has been difficult to directly compare diverse characteristic gelation mechanisms over different length and time scales. This paper presents a universal water structure analysis of several gels with different structures and gelation mechanisms including polymer gels, supramolecular gels composed of surfactant micelles, and cement gels. The spatial distribution of water molecules was analyzed at molecular level from a diagram of the relaxation times and their distribution parameters (τ–β diagrams) with our database of the 10 GHz process for a variety of aqueous systems. Polymer gels with volume phase transition showed a small decrease in the fractal dimension of the hydrogen bond network (HBN) with gelation. In supramolecular gels with rod micelle precursor with amphipathic molecules, both the elongation of the micelles and their cross-linking caused a reduction in the fractal dimension. Such a reduction was also found in cement gels. These results suggest that the HBN inevitably breaks at each length scale with relative increase in steric hindrance due to cross-linking, resulting in the fragmentation of collective structures of water molecules. The universal analysis using τ–β diagrams presented here has broad applicability as a method to characterize diverse gel structures and evaluate gelation processes.
Inherited Reticulate Pigmentary Disorders
Authors: Lin Min-Huei , Chou Pei-Chen , Lee I-Chen , Yang Syuan-Fei , Yu Hsin-Su , Yu Sebastian
Published: June 2023

Reticulate pigmentary disorders (RPDs) are a group of inherited and acquired skin conditions characterized by hyperpigmented and/or hypopigmented macules. Inherited RPDs include dyschromatosis symmetrica hereditaria (DSH), dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria (DUH), reticulate acropigmentation of Kitamura (RAK), Dowling-Degos disease (DDD), dyskeratosis congenita (DKC), Naegeli–Franceschetti–Jadassohn syndrome (NFJS), dermatopathia pigmentosa reticularis (DPR), and X-linked reticulate pigmentary disorder. Although reticulate pattern of pigmentation is a common characteristic of this spectrum of disorders, the distribution of pigmentation varies among these disorders, and there may be clinical manifestations beyond pigmentation. DSH, DUH, and RAK are mostly reported in East Asian ethnicities. DDD is more common in Caucasians, although it is also reported in Asian countries. Other RPDs show no racial predilection. This article reviews the clinical, histological, and genetic variations of inherited RPDs.
Characterization and Genome Study of a Newly Isolated Temperate Phage Belonging to a New Genus Targeting Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris
Authors: Shymialevich Dziyana , Wójcicki Michał , Świder Olga , Średnicka Paulina , Sokołowska Barbara
Published: June 2023

The spoilage of juices by Alicyclobacillus spp. remains a serious problem in industry and leads to economic losses. Compounds such as guaiacol and halophenols, which are produced by Alicyclobacillus, create undesirable flavors and odors and, thus, decrease the quality of juices. The inactivation of Alicyclobacillus spp. constitutes a challenge because it is resistant to environmental factors, such as high temperatures, and active acidity. However, the use of bacteriophages seems to be a promising approach. In this study, we aimed to isolate and comprehensively characterize a novel bacteriophage targeting Alicyclobacillus spp. The Alicyclobacillus phage strain KKP 3916 was isolated from orchard soil against the Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris strain KKP 3133. The bacterial host’s range and the effect of phage addition at different rates of multiplicity of infections (MOIs) on the host’s growth kinetics were determined using a Bioscreen C Pro growth analyzer. The Alicyclobacillus phage strain KKP 3916, retained its activity in a wide range of temperatures (from 4 °C to 30 °C) and active acidity values (pH from 3 to 11). At 70 °C, the activity of the phage decreased by 99.9%. In turn, at 80 °C, no activity against the bacterial host was observed. Thirty minutes of exposure to UV reduced the activity of the phages by almost 99.99%. Based on transmission-electron microscopy (TEM) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analyses, the Alicyclobacillus phage strain KKP 3916 was classified as a tailed bacteriophage. The genomic sequencing revealed that the newly isolated phage had linear double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) with sizes of 120 bp and 131 bp and 40.3% G+C content. Of the 204 predicted proteins, 134 were of unknown function, while the remainder were annotated as structural, replication, and lysis proteins. No genes associated with antibiotic resistance were found in the genome of the newly isolated phage. However, several regions, including four associated with integration into the bacterial host genome and excisionase, were identified, which indicates the temperate (lysogenic) life cycle of the bacteriophage. Due to the risk of its potential involvement in horizontal gene transfer, this phage is not an appropriate candidate for further research on its use in food biocontrol. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first article on the isolation and whole-genome analysis of the Alicyclobacillus-specific phage.
Expression Pattern of DAB Adaptor Protein 2 in Left- and Right-Side Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Šustić Ivan , Racetin Anita , Vukojević Katarina , Benzon Benjamin , Tonkić Ante , Šundov Željko , Puljiz Mario , Glavina Durdov Merica , Filipović Natalija
Published: June 2023

Left-sided and right-sided colorectal cancer (L-CRC and R-CRC) have relatively different clinical pictures and pathophysiological backgrounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of DAB adapter protein 2 (DAB2) as a potential molecular mechanism that contributes to this diversity in terms of malignancy and responses to therapy. The expression of the suppressor gene DAB2 in colon cancer has already been analyzed, but its significance has not been fully elucidated. Archived samples from 34 patients who underwent colon cancer surgery were included in this study, with 13 patients with low-grade CRC and 21 with high-grade CRC. Twenty of the tumors were R-CRC, while 14 were L-CRC. DAB2 expression was analyzed immunohistochemically in the tumor tissue and the colon resection margin was used as a control. Tumors were divided into L-CRC and R-CRC, with splenic flexure as the cutoff point for each side. The results showed that R-CRC had lower DAB2 protein expression compared to L-CRC (p = 0.01). High-grade tumors had reduced DAB2 expression compared to low-grade tumors (p = 0.02). These results are consistent with the analysis of DAB2 gene expression data that we exported from the TCGA Colon and Rectal Cancer Study (COADREAD). In 736 samples of colon cancer, lower DAB2 gene expression was found in R-CRC compared to L-CRC (p < 0.0001). DAB2 gene expression was significantly higher in the sigmoid colon than in the cecum and ascending colon (p < 0.01). The analysis confirmed a lower expression of the DAB2 in tumors with positive microsatellite instability (p < 0.001). In conclusion, DAB2 has a role in the biological differences between R-CRC and L-CRC and its therapeutic and diagnostic potential needs to be further examined.
The Relationship between Bedrock Depth and Site Fundamental Frequency in the Nakdonggang Delta Region, South Korea
Authors: Kim Jaehwi , Heo Giseok , Kwak Dongyoup , Jeong Seokho
Published: June 2023

This paper describes the relationship between bedrock depth (D) and site fundamental frequency (f0) in the Nakdonggang delta region in the southeastern part of the Korean peninsula. We collected borehole logs to confirm the thickness of the sediments and estimated the f0 at over 200 locations across the delta using the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) method. We developed an f0 map of the study area by spatially interpolating the f0 values using the Ordinary Kriging method. The bedrock depth in the main delta showed a power-law dependence on the f0. The derived f0–D model predicted much shallower bedrock depths compared with similar studies from other parts of the world. This was attributed to the fact that the Nakdonggang delta region is composed of relatively low Vs Holocene sediments. With an f0 map, the derived model could enable a quick estimation of the bedrock depth, which could help to determine the site class in the Nakdonggang delta region according to the Korean Seismic Design Standard (KDS 17 10 00).
Smart Devices for Health and Wellness Applied to Tele-Exercise: An Overview of New Trends and Technologies Such as IoT and AI
Authors: Fabbrizio Antonio , Fucarino Alberto , Cantoia Manuela , De Giorgio Andrea , Garrido Nuno D. , Iuliano Enzo , Reis Victor Machado , Sausa Martina , Vilaça-Alves José , Zimatore Giovanna , Baldari Carlo , Macaluso Filippo
Published: June 2023

This descriptive article explores the use of smart devices for health and wellness in the context of telehealth, highlighting rapidly evolving technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Key innovations, benefits, challenges, and opportunities related to the adoption of these technologies are outlined. The article provides a descriptive and accessible approach to understanding the evolution and impact of smart devices in the tele-exercise reality. Nowadays, technological advances provide solutions that were unthinkable just a few years ago. The habits of the general population have also changed over the past few years. Hence, there is a need to investigate this issue and draw the attention of the scientific community to this topic by describing the benefits and challenges associated with each topic. If individuals no longer go to exercise, the exercise must go to their homes instead.
The Experience of Women Giving Birth after Cesarean Section—A Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Sys Dorota , Kajdy Anna , Niżniowska Martyna , Baranowska Barbara , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Tataj-Puzyna Urszula
Published: June 2023

Natural childbirth after a previous cesarean section is a debated issue despite scientific research and international recommendations. This study aimed to examine the experiences of women giving birth after a previous cesarean section, their preferences, and changes in attitudes towards childbirth after labor. This longitudinal study involved 288 pregnant women who had a previous cesarean section and completed a web-based questionnaire before and after labor, including information about their obstetric history, birth beliefs, and preferred mode of delivery. Among women who preferred a vaginal birth, nearly 80% tried it and 49.78% finished delivery by this mode. Among women declaring a preference for an elective cesarean section, 30% attempted a vaginal birth. Choosing a hospital where staff supported their decision (regardless of the decision) was the most helpful factor in preparing for labor after a cesarean section (63.19%). Women’s birth preferences changed after labor, with women who had a vaginal birth after a cesarean section preferring this mode of delivery in their next pregnancy (89.34%). The mode of birth did not always follow the women’s preferences, with some women who preferred a natural childbirth undergoing an elective cesarean section for medical reasons. A variety of changes were noticeable among women giving birth after a cesarean section, with a large proportion preferring natural birth in their next pregnancy. Hospitals should support women’s birth preferences after a cesarean section (if medically appropriate), providing comprehensive counseling, resources, and emotional support to ensure informed decisions and positive birth experiences.
The Effect of Kinesio Taping Combined with Virtual-Reality-Based Upper Extremity Training on Upper Extremity Function and Self-Esteem in Stroke Patients
Authors: Yang Seo-Won , Ma Sung-Ryong , Choi Jong-Bae
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of virtual-reality-based hand motion training (VRT) in parallel with the Kinesio Taping (KT) technique on upper extremity function in stroke patients and to present a more effective therapeutic basis for virtual reality training intervention. (2) Methods: First, 43 stroke patients were randomly assigned to two groups: 21 experimental subjects and 22 controls. The experimental group performed Kinesio Taping (KT) on the dorsal part of the hand along with virtual-reality-based hand motion training, and the control group performed only virtual-reality-based hand motion training. The intervention was conducted for a total of 30 sessions over 6 weeks. To evaluate changes in upper extremity function, the Fugl–Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and the Motor Activity Log (MAL) (including amount of use (AOU) and quality of movement (QOM)) were evaluated. In addition, the Self-Efficacy Scale (SEF) was evaluated to examine the change in the self-esteem of the study subjects. (3) Results: The experimental group who participated in the virtual reality training in parallel with the KT technique showed statistically significant improvement (** p < 0.01) in the FMA-UE, WMFT, and MAL evaluations that investigate changes in upper extremity function. SEF evaluation also showed a statistically significant improvement (** p < 0.01). A statistically significant difference between the two groups was observed in the evaluation of FMA-UE, WMFT, MAL-QOM, and SEF († p < 0.05), showing that that combined intervention was more effective at improving upper extremity function than the existing VRT intervention. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in the MAL-AOU item, which is an evaluation of upper extremity function (p > 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in the amount of change in upper limb function (†† p < 0.01). (4) Conclusions: It was confirmed that virtual-reality-based hand motion training performed in parallel with the KT technique had a positive effect on the recovery of upper extremity function of stroke patients. The fact that the KT technique provided stability to the wrist by assisting the wrist extensor muscles appears to have improved the upper extremity function more effectively than VRT alone.
Navigation-Oriented Topological Model Construction Algorithm for Complex Indoor Space
Authors: Han Litao , Qiao Hu , Li Zeyu , Liu Mengfan , Zhang Pengfei
Published: June 2023

Indoor space information is the basis of indoor location services such as indoor navigation, path planning, emergency evacuation, etc. Focusing on indoor navigation needs, this paper proposes a fast construction algorithm for a complex indoor space topology model based on disjoint set for the problem of lacking polygon description and topological relationship expression of indoor space entity objects in building plan drawings. Firstly, the Tarjan algorithm is used for identifying the hanging edges existing in the indoor space. Secondly, each edge is stored as two different edges belonging to two adjacent polygons that share the edge. A ring structure is introduced to judge the geometric position of walls, and then an efficient disjoint set algorithm is used to perform set merging. After that, disjoint set is queried to obtain all indoor space contours and external boundary contours, thereby the complete indoor space topological relationship at multiple levels is established. Finally, the connectivity theory of graph is used for solving the problem of a complex isolated polygon in topology information generation. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has generality to efficiently complete the automatic construction of a topological model for complex scenarios, and effectively acquire and organize indoor space information, thus providing a good spatial cognition mode for indoor navigation.
Fluorinated Benzofuran and Dihydrobenzofuran as Anti-Inflammatory and Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Ayoub Abeer J. , El-Achkar Ghewa A. , Ghayad Sandra E. , Hariss Layal , Haidar Razan H. , Antar Leen M. , Mallah Zahraa I. , Badran Bassam , Grée René , Hachem Ali , Hamade Eva , Habib Aida
Published: June 2023

Benzofuran and 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran scaffolds are heterocycles of high value in medicinal chemistry and drug synthesis. Targeting inflammation in cancer associated with chronic inflammation is a promising therapy. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of fluorinated benzofuran and dihydrobenzofuran derivatives in macrophages and in the air pouch model of inflammation, as well as their anticancer effects in the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HCT116. Six of the nine compounds suppressed lipopolysaccharide-stimulated inflammation by inhibiting the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and nitric oxide synthase 2 and decreased the secretion of the tested inflammatory mediators. Their IC50 values ranged from 1.2 to 9.04 µM for interleukin-6; from 1.5 to 19.3 µM for Chemokine (C-C) Ligand 2; from 2.4 to 5.2 µM for nitric oxide; and from 1.1 to 20.5 µM for prostaglandin E2. Three novel synthesized benzofuran compounds significantly inhibited cyclooxygenase activity. Most of these compounds showed anti-inflammatory effects in the zymosan-induced air pouch model. Because inflammation may lead to tumorigenesis, we tested the effects of these compounds on the proliferation and apoptosis of HCT116. Two compounds with difluorine, bromine, and ester or carboxylic acid groups inhibited the proliferation by approximately 70%. Inhibition of the expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 and concentration-dependent cleavage of PARP-1, as well as DNA fragmentation by approximately 80%, were described. Analysis of the structure–activity relationship suggested that the biological effects of benzofuran derivatives are enhanced in the presence of fluorine, bromine, hydroxyl, and/or carboxyl groups. In conclusion, the designed fluorinated benzofuran and dihydrobenzofuran derivatives are efficient anti-inflammatory agents, with a promising anticancer effect and a combinatory treatment in inflammation and tumorigenesis in cancer microenvironments.
Patterns of Mandibular Fractures through Human Aggression: A 10-Year Cross-Sectional Cohort Retrospective Study
Authors: Rivis Mircea , Juncar Raluca Iulia , Moca Abel Emanuel , Moca Rahela Tabita , Juncar Mihai , Țenț Paul Andrei
Published: June 2023

The World Health Organization considers the victims of interpersonal violence to be a medical priority. In order to provide services at the highest level, we aimed to evaluate the patterns of maxillofacial fractures caused by interpersonal violence, in order to treat, counsel and guide these patients. This retrospective study was conducted in 478 patients with mandibular fractures caused by interpersonal violence over 10 years in a university clinic. The most affected were male patients (95.19%), 20–29 years of age (46.86%), under the influence of alcohol (83.26%) and without education (43.9%). The majority of mandibular fractures were displaced (89.3%) and intraorally open (64.0%). The most frequent location was the mandibular angle (34.84%). The most frequent soft tissue lesions were hematomas (45.04%) and abrasions (34.71%), being associated frequently with closed (p = 0.945/p = 0.237), displaced (p = 0.001/p = 0.002), single angle fractures (p = 0.081/p = 0.222). Educating the population and fighting alcohol consumption would decrease the occurrence of mandibular fractures through aggression. Clinical diagnosis should be made, keeping in mind that the severity of associated soft tissue lesions is directly proportional to the pattern and number of underlying fracture lines.
Difference between Anterior and Posterior Cord Compression and Its Clinical Implication in Patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Kang Kyung-Chung , Jang Tae Su , Choi Sun-Hwan , Kim Hee-Won
Published: June 2023

In degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), the low anteroposterior compression ratio of the spinal cord is known to be associated with a neurologic deficit. However, there is little detailed analysis of spinal cord compression. Axial magnetic resonance images of 183 DCM patients at normal C2–C3 and maximal cord compression segments were analyzed. The anterior (A), posterior (P), and anteroposterior length and width (W) of the spinal cord were measured. Correlation analyses between radiographic parameters and each section of Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores and comparisons of the patients divided by A (below or above 0, 1, or 2 mm) were performed. Between C2–C3 and maximal compression segments, the mean differences of A and P were 2.0 (1.2) and 0.2 (0.8) mm. The mean anteroposterior compression ratios were 0.58 (0.13) at C2–C3 and 0.32 (0.17) at maximal compression. The A and A/W ratio were significantly correlated with four sections and the total JOA scores (p < 0.05), but the P and P/W ratio did not demonstrate any correlations. Patients with A < 1 mm had significantly lower JOA scores than those with A ≥ 1 mm. In patients with DCM, spinal cord compression occurs mainly in the anterior part and the anterior cord length of <1 mm is particularly associated with neurologic deficits.
Intraoperative Visualization and Treatment of Salivary Gland Dysfunction in Sjögren’s Syndrome Patients Using Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Sialendoscopy (CEUSS)
Authors: Karagozoglu K. Hakki , Mahraoui Anissa , Bot Joseph C. J. , Cha Seunghee , Ho Jean-Pierre T. F. , Helder Marco N. , Brand Henk S. , Bartelink Imke H. , Vissink Arjan , Weisman Gary A. , Jager Derk Hendrik Jan
Published: June 2023

In sialendoscopy, ducts are dilated and the salivary glands are irrigated with saline. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS), using microbubbles, may facilitate the monitoring of irrigation solution penetration in the ductal system and parenchyma. It is imperative to test CEUSS for its safety and feasibility in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) patients. CEUSS was performed on 10 SS patients. The primary outcomes were safety, determined by the occurrence of (serious) adverse events ((S)AEs), and feasibility. The secondary outcomes were unstimulated and stimulated whole saliva (UWS and SWS) flow rates, xerostomia inventory (XI), clinical oral dryness score, pain, EULAR Sjögren’s syndrome patient reported index (ESSPRI), and gland topographical alterations. CEUSS was technically feasible in all patients. Neither SAEs nor systemic reactions related to the procedure were observed. The main AEs were postoperative pain (two patients) and swelling (two patients). Eight weeks after CEUSS, the median UWS and SWS flow had increased significantly from 0.10 to 0.22 mL/min (p = 0.028) and 0.41 to 0.61 mL/min (p = 0.047), respectively. Sixteen weeks after CEUSS, the mean XI was reduced from 45.2 to 34.2 (p = 0.02). We conclude that CEUSS is a safe and feasible treatment for SS patients. It has the potential to increase salivary secretion and reduce xerostomia, but this needs further investigation.
Simultaneously Assessed Three-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography-Derived Left Ventricular and Left Atrial Volumes Are Associated in Healthy Adults—Findings from the MAGYAR-Healthy Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Ruzsa Zoltán , Achim Alexandru , Ambrus Nóra , Lengyel Csaba
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The left atrium (LA) has a significant role in regulating blood flow from veins to the left ventricle (LV). LV performance is affected by several factors including preload, which is partly, but highly, dependent on LA volumes. The aim of the present study is to perform simultaneous assessment of LA and LV volume changes during the cardiac cycle in healthy circumstances. Therefore, LA and LV volumes and volume-based functional properties were determined in healthy adults, and the associations of these parameters were examined. Methods: The present study consists of 164 healthy adults (age: 33.0 ± 12.3 years, 82 males) being in sinus rhythm. All subjects have undergone complete two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography with three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (3DSTE). Results: Increased end-systolic maximum LA volume was associated with higher LV volumes and reduced LV ejection fraction. Very high early pre-atrial contraction and late diastolic LA volumes were associated with increased LV volumes, reduced LV ejection fraction and increased LV mass. Increased LA volumes were associated with increased LV mass. Higher LV volumes were associated with tendentiously higher LA volumes. Higher LV end-diastolic volume was associated with tendentiously higher all LA stroke volumes (SVs) and total and active LA emptying fractions (EFs). Higher LV end-systolic volume was associated with tendentiously higher all LA SVs but preserved all LA EFs. Conclusions: 3DSTE is capable of simultaneous assessment of LA and LV volumes and volume-based functional properties for (patho)physiologic studies. Moreover, 3DSTE-derived LV and LA volumes and functional properties show strong associations.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review of Treatment Approaches
Authors: González-Sánchez Blanca , García Monterey Pablo , Ramírez-Durán María del Valle , Garrido-Ardila Elisa Mª , Rodríguez-Mansilla Juan , Jiménez-Palomares María
Published: June 2023

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a diverse array of conditions affecting both the structure and function of the jaw. The aetiology of TMDs is multifactorial and may arise from muscular and joint disorders, degenerative processes, or a combination of various symptoms. The objective of this review was to analyse the physiotherapy treatment techniques used for the management of temporomandibular disorders. This review also aimed to compare the effectiveness of the differenttreatment methods used and identify the dysfunctions for which physiotherapy interventions are applied as the main treatment. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed, ScienceDirect, Dialnet, and PEDro databases. After applying the inclusion criteria, 15 out of 656 articles were included. The application of different physiotherapy techniques, both alone and in combination, is effective in controlling the primary symptoms of TMD in patients. These symptoms include pain, functionality, and quality of life. The use of physiotherapy as a conservative intervention method for TMDs is supported by sufficient scientific evidence. The combination of different therapies within physiotherapy achieves the best results in treatment. Therapeutic exercise protocols, in combination with manual therapy techniques, are the most commonly utilized method for addressing TMDs and thus provide the best results according to the analysed studies.
Increased Risk of Developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis in Patients with Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome—A Secondary Cohort Analysis of Nationwide, Population-Based Claims Data
Authors: Koo Malcolm , Hsu Chia-Wen , Lu Ming-Chi
Published: June 2023

Background: This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) compared to controls using data from a nationwide health claims database. Methods: Four distinct cohorts of patients with newly diagnosed pSS were established using Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database. Cohorts I and II were created to evaluate the risk of developing SLE and RA, respectively. Cohorts III and IV were assembled similarly to Cohorts I and II but employed a stricter definition, based on catastrophic illness certificate (CIC) status, for identifying patients with pSS. Comparison cohorts of patients without pSS were formed by frequency matching for sex, 5-year age interval, and index year. Incident rate ratios (IRR) for SLE or RA development were determined using Poisson regression models. Results: Patients with pSS, selected from just outpatient visits or with additional CIC status showed a significantly higher risk of developing SLE or RA compared with the controls. When stratified by age group or sex, the risk of developing SLE was notably higher in the young age group (adjusted IRR 47.24, p = 0.002) and women (adjusted IRR 7.63, p = 0.003) among patients with pSS. In addition, both men and women with pSS, irrespective of age, showed a significantly elevated risk of developing RA. Conclusions: Patients with pSS exhibited an elevated risk of developing SLE and RA. Rheumatologists should carefully monitor patients with pSS for potential SLE and RA development.
Treatment of COVID-19 during the Acute Phase in Hospitalized Patients Decreases Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19
Authors: Badenes Bonet Diana , Caguana Vélez Oswaldo Antonio , Duran Jordà Xavier , Comas Serrano Merce , Posso Rivera Margarita , Admetlló Mireia , Herranz Blasco Anna , Cuadrado Godia Elisa , Marco Navarro Ester , Martin Ezquerra Gemma , Pineiro Aguin Zenaida , Cumpli Gargallo Maria Cinta , Gonzalez Garcia Jose Gregorio , Balcells Vilarnau Eva , Rodriguez Chiaradia Diego , Castells Xavier , Gea Joaquim , Horcajada Juan P. , Villar-García Judit
Published: June 2023

Background: The post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) infection have caused a significant impact on our health system, but there is limited evidence of approved drugs focused on its prevention. Our objective was to identify risk factors that can determine the presence of PASC, with special attention to the treatment received in the acute phase, and to describe the profile of persistent symptoms in a multidisciplinary Post-Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) Unit. Methods: This one-year prospective observational study included patients following an acute COVID-19 infection, irrespective of whether they required hospital admission. A standardized symptom questionnaire and blood sampling were performed at the first follow-up visit, and demographic and clinical electronic data were collected. We compared subjects with PASC with those who had fully recovered. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with PASC in hospitalized patients, and Kaplan–Meier curves were used to assess duration of symptoms according to disease severity and treatments received in the acute phase. Results: 1966 patients were evaluated; 1081 had mild disease, 542 moderate and 343 severe; around one third of the subjects had PASC, and were more frequently female, with obesity, asthma, and eosinophilia during acute COVID-19 disease. Patients who received treatment with dexamethasone and remdesivir during the course of the acute illness showed a lower median duration of symptoms, compared with those who received none of these treatments. Conclusion: Treatment with dexamethasone and/or remdesivir may be useful to reduce the impact of PASC secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, we identified female gender, obesity, asthma, and disease severity as risk factors for having PASC.
The Role of Pathogenesis Associated with the Tumor Microclimate in the Differential Diagnosis of Uterine Myocytic Tumors
Authors: Bosoteanu Madalina , Deacu Mariana , Aschie Mariana , Vamesu Sorin , Cozaru Georgeta Camelia , Mitroi Anca Florentina , Voda Raluca Ioana , Orasanu Cristian Ionut , Vlad Sabina Elena , Penciu Roxana Cleopatra , Chirila Sergiu Ioachim
Published: June 2023

Myocytic tumors of the uterus present vast morphological heterogeneity, which makes differential diagnosis between the different entities necessary. This study aims to enrich the existing data and highlight new potential therapeutic targets regarding aspects related to the pathogenic process and the tumor microenvironment in order to improve the quality of life of women. We performed a 5-year retrospective study, including particular cases of uterine myocyte tumors. Immunohistochemical analyses of pathogenic pathways (p53, RB1, and PTEN) and tumor microclimate using markers (CD8, PD-L1, and CD105), as well as genetic testing of the PTEN gene, were performed. The data were statistically analyzed using the appropriate parameters. In cases of atypical leiomyoma, a significant association was observed between PTEN deletion and an increased number of PD-L1+ T lymphocytes. For malignant lesions and STUMP, PTEN deletion was associated with the advanced disease stage. Advanced cases were also associated with an increased mean CD8+ T cell count. An increased number of lymphocytes was associated with an increased percentage of RB1+ nuclei. The study corroborated clinical and histogenetic data, highlighting the importance of the differential diagnosis of these tumors to improve the management of patients and increase their quality of life.