bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Metabolite Profiling of Antarctic Expedition Members: An 1H NMR Spectroscopy-Based Study
Authors: Del Coco Laura , Greco Marco , Inguscio Alessandra , Munir Anas , Danieli Antonio , Cossa Luca , Musarò Debora , Coscia Maria Rosaria , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo , Maffia Michele
Published: May 2023

Serum samples from eight participants during the XV winter-over at Concordia base (Antarctic expedition) collected at defined time points, including predeparture, constituted the key substrates for a specific metabolomics study. To ascertain acute changes and chronic adaptation to hypoxia, the metabolic profiles of the serum samples were analyzed using NMR spectroscopy, with principal components analysis (PCA) followed by partial least squares and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analyses (PLS-DA and OPLS-DA) used as supervised classification methods. Multivariate data analyses clearly highlighted an adaptation period characterized by an increase in the levels of circulating glutamine and lipids, mobilized to supply the body energy needs. At the same time, a reduction in the circulating levels of glutamate and N-acetyl glycoproteins, stress condition indicators, and proinflammatory markers were also found in the NMR data investigation. Subsequent pathway analysis showed possible perturbations in metabolic processes, potentially related to the physiological adaptation, predominantly found by comparing the baseline (at sea level, before mission onset), the base arrival, and the mission ending collected values.
The Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis in Behaviour and Brain Disorders
Authors: Lana Daniele , Giovannini Maria Grazia
Published: May 2023

The gut, along with its microbiota (MB-gut), is the largest absorption organ and reservoir of bacteria in the human body [...]
Pulmonary Hypertension: New Insights and Recent Advances from Basic Science to Translational Approaches
Authors: Novoyatleva Tatyana
Published: May 2023

This Special Issue, “Molecular Research on Pulmonary Hypertension 3 [...]
(±)-3-Deoxyradicinin Induces Stomata Opening and Chloroplast Oxidative Stress in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Samperna Simone , Zanotti Clarissa , Scafato Patrizia , Boari Angela , Visconti Sabina , Vurro Maurizio , Superchi Stefano , Evidente Antonio , Marra Mauro
Published: May 2023

Radicinin is a phytotoxic dihydropyranopyran-4,5-dione isolated from the culture filtrates of Cochliobolus australiensis, a phytopathogenic fungus of the invasive weed buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris). Radicinin proved to have interesting potential as a natural herbicide. Being interested in elucidating the mechanism of action and considering radicinin is produced in small quantities by C. australiensis, we opted to use (±)-3-deoxyradicinin, a synthetic analogue of radicinin that is available in larger quantities and shows radicinin-like phytotoxic activities. To obtain information about subcellular targets and mechanism(s) of action of the toxin, the study was carried out by using tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), which, apart from its economic relevance, has become a model plant species for physiological and molecular studies. Results of biochemical assays showed that (±)-3-deoxyradicinin administration to leaves induced chlorosis, ion leakage, hydrogen peroxide production, and membrane lipid peroxidation. Remarkably, the compound determined the uncontrolled opening of stomata, which, in turn, resulted in plant wilting. Confocal microscopy analysis of protoplasts treated with (±)-3-deoxyradicinin ascertained that the toxin targeted chloroplasts, eliciting an overproduction of reactive singlet oxygen species. This oxidative stress status was related by qRT-PCR experiments to the activation of transcription of genes of a chloroplast-specific pathway of programmed cell death.
Engineering Human Cells Expressing CRISPR/Cas9-Synergistic Activation Mediators for Recombinant Protein Production
Authors: Feser Colby J. , Williams James M. , Lammers Daniel T. , Bingham Jason R. , Eckert Matthew J. , Tolar Jakub , Osborn Mark J.
Published: May 2023

Recombinant engineering for protein production commonly employs plasmid-based gene templates for introduction and expression of genes in a candidate cell system in vitro. Challenges to this approach include identifying cell types that can facilitate proper post-translational modifications and difficulty expressing large multimeric proteins. We hypothesized that integration of the CRISPR/Cas9-synergistic activator mediator (SAM) system into the human genome would be a powerful tool capable of robust gene expression and protein production. SAMs are comprised of a “dead” Cas9 (dCas9) linked to transcriptional activators viral particle 64 (VP64), nuclear factor-kappa-B p65 subunit (p65), and heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) and are programmable to single or multiple gene targets. We integrated the components of the SAM system into human HEK293, HKB11, SK-HEP1, and HEP-g2 cells using coagulation factor X (FX) and fibrinogen (FBN) as proof of concept. We observed upregulation of mRNA in each cell type with concomitant protein expression. Our findings demonstrate the capability of human cells stably expressing SAM for user-defined singleplex and multiplex gene targeting and highlight their broad potential utility for recombinant engineering as well as transcriptional modulation across networks for basic, translational, and clinical modeling and applications.
Desorption Kinetics Evaluation for the Development of Validated Desorption Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometric Assays for Drug Quantification in Tissue Sections
Authors: Fresnais Margaux , Liang Siwen , Seven Deniz , Prodanovic Nevena , Sundheimer Julia , Haefeli Walter E. , Burhenne Jürgen , Longuespée Rémi
Published: May 2023

The development of desorption/ionization (DI) mass spectrometric (MS) assays for drug quantification in tissue sections and their validation according to regulatory guidelines would enable their universalization for applications in (clinical) pharmacology. Recently, new enhancements in desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) have highlighted the reliability of this ion source for the development of targeted quantification methods that meet requirements for method validation. However, it is necessary to consider subtle parameters leading to the success of such method developments, such as the morphology of desorption spots, the analytical time, and sample surface, to cite but a few. Here, we provide additional experimental data highlighting an additional important parameter, based on the unique advantage of DESI-MS on continuous extraction during analysis. We demonstrate that considering desorption kinetics during DESI analyses would largely help (i) reducing analytical time during profiling analyses, (ii) verifying solvent-based drug extraction using the selected sample preparation method for profiling and imaging modes, and (iii) predicting the feasibility of imaging assays using samples in a given expected concentration range of the targeted drug. These observations will likely serve as precious guidance for the development of validated DESI-profiling and imaging methods in the future.
The Formation and Function of Birnaviridae Virus Factories
Authors: Brodrick Andrew J. , Broadbent Andrew J.
Published: May 2023

The use of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) reverse genetics to engineer tagged reporter viruses has revealed that the virus factories (VFs) of the Birnaviridae family are biomolecular condensates that show properties consistent with liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS). Although the VFs are not bound by membranes, it is currently thought that viral protein 3 (VP3) initially nucleates the formation of the VF on the cytoplasmic leaflet of early endosomal membranes, and likely drives LLPS. In addition to VP3, IBDV VFs contain VP1 (the viral polymerase) and the dsRNA genome, and they are the sites of de novo viral RNA synthesis. Cellular proteins are also recruited to the VFs, which are likely to provide an optimal environment for viral replication; the VFs grow due to the synthesis of the viral components, the recruitment of other proteins, and the coalescence of multiple VFs in the cytoplasm. Here, we review what is currently known about the formation, properties, composition, and processes of these structures. Many open questions remain regarding the biophysical nature of the VFs, as well as the roles they play in replication, translation, virion assembly, viral genome partitioning, and in modulating cellular processes.
Trichome-Specific Analysis and Weighted Gene Co-Expression Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA) Reveal Potential Regulation Mechanism of Artemisinin Biosynthesis in Artemisia annua
Authors: Huang Dawei , Zhong Guixian , Zhang Shiyang , Jiang Kerui , Wang Chen , Wu Jian , Wang Bo
Published: May 2023

Trichomes are attractive cells for terpenoid biosynthesis and accumulation in Artemisia annua. However, the molecular process underlying the trichome of A. annua is not yet fully elucidated. In this study, an analysis of multi-tissue transcriptome data was performed to examine trichome-specific expression patterns. A total of 6646 genes were screened and highly expressed in trichomes, including artemisinin biosynthetic genes such as amorpha-4,11-diene synthase (ADS) and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP71AV1). Mapman and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis showed that trichome-specific genes were mainly enriched in lipid metabolism and terpenoid metabolism. These trichome-specific genes were analyzed by a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and the blue module linked to terpenoid backbone biosynthesis was determined. Hub genes correlated with the artemisinin biosynthetic genes were selected based on TOM value. ORA, Benzoate carboxyl methyltransferase (BAMT), Lysine histidine transporter-like 8 (AATL1), Ubiquitin-like protease 1 (Ulp1) and TUBBY were revealed as key hub genes induced by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) for regulating artemisinin biosynthesis. In summary, the identified trichome-specific genes, modules, pathways and hub genes provide clues and shed light on the potential regulatory mechanisms of artemisinin biosynthesis in trichomes in A. annua.
Using Multiscale Simulations as a Tool to Interpret Equatorial X-ray Fiber Diffraction Patterns from Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Prodanovic Momcilo , Wang Yiwei , Mijailovich Srboljub M. , Irving Thomas
Published: May 2023

Synchrotron small-angle X-ray diffraction is the method of choice for nm-scale structural studies of striated muscle under physiological conditions and on millisecond time scales. The lack of generally applicable computational tools for modeling X-ray diffraction patterns from intact muscles has been a significant barrier to exploiting the full potential of this technique. Here, we report a novel “forward problem” approach using the spatially explicit computational simulation platform MUSICO to predict equatorial small-angle X-ray diffraction patterns and the force output simultaneously from resting and isometrically contracting rat skeletal muscle that can be compared to experimental data. The simulation generates families of thick–thin filament repeating units, each with their individually predicted occupancies of different populations of active and inactive myosin heads that can be used to generate 2D-projected electron density models based on known Protein Data Bank structures. We show how, by adjusting only a few selected parameters, we can achieve a good correspondence between experimental and predicted X-ray intensities. The developments presented here demonstrate the feasibility of combining X-ray diffraction and spatially explicit modeling to form a powerful hypothesis-generating tool that can be used to motivate experiments that can reveal emergent properties of muscle.
Alterations in Antibiotic Susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae in Dual Species Biofilms
Authors: Mironova Anna V. , Karimova Agniya V. , Bogachev Mikhail I. , Kayumov Airat R. , Trizna Elena Y.
Published: May 2023

In the last decades, it has been shown that biofilm-associated infections in most cases are caused by rather two or even more pathogens than by single microorganisms. Due to intermicrobial interactions in mixed communities, bacteria change their gene expression profile, in turn leading to alterations in the biofilm structure and properties, as well as susceptibility to antimicrobials. Here, we report the alterations of antimicrobials efficiency in mixed biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus–Klebsiella pneumoniae in comparison with mono-species biofilms of each counterpart and discuss possible mechanisms of these alterations. In cell clumps detached from dual-species biofilms, S. aureus became insensitive to vancomycin, ampicillin, and ceftazidime compared to solely S. aureus cell clumps. In turn, the increased efficiency of amikacin and ciprofloxacin against both bacteria could be observed, compared to mono-species biofilms of each counterpart. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy indicate the porous structure of the dual-species biofilm, and differential fluorescent staining revealed an increased number of polysaccharides in the matrix, in turn leading to more loose structure and thus apparently providing increased permeability of the dual-species biofilm to antimicrobials. The qRT-PCR showed that ica operon in S. aureus became repressed in mixed communities, and polysaccharides are produced mainly by K. pneumoniae. While the molecular trigger of these changes remains undiscovered, detailed knowledge of the alterations in antibiotic susceptibility to given drugs opens doors for treatment correction options for S. aureus–K. pneumoniae biofilm-associated infections.
Deep Learning Pet Identification Using Face and Body
Authors: Azizi Elham , Zaman Loutfouz
Published: May 2023

According to the American Humane Association, millions of cats and dogs are lost yearly. Only a few thousand of them are found and returned home. In this work, we use deep learning to help expedite the procedure of finding lost cats and dogs, for which a new dataset is collected. We applied transfer learning methods on different convolutional neural networks for species classification and animal identification. The framework consists of seven sequential layers: data preprocessing, species classification, face and body detection with landmark detection techniques, face alignment, identification, animal soft biometrics, and recommendation. We achieved an accuracy of 98.18% on species classification. In the face identification layer, 80% accuracy was achieved. Body identification resulted in 81% accuracy. When using body identification in addition to face identification, the accuracy increased to 86.5%, with a 100% chance that the animal would be in our top 10 recommendations of matching. By incorporating animals’ soft biometric information, the system can identify animals with 92% confidence.
Basic Structures of Gut Bacterial Communities in Eusocial Insects
Authors: Suenami Shota , Koto Akiko , Miyazaki Ryo
Published: May 2023

Gut bacterial communities assist host animals with numerous functions such as food digestion, nutritional provision, or immunity. Some social mammals and insects are unique in that their gut microbial communities are stable among individuals. In this review, we focus on the gut bacterial communities of eusocial insects, including bees, ants, and termites, to provide an overview of their community structures and to gain insights into any general aspects of their structural basis. Pseudomonadota and Bacillota are prevalent bacterial phyla commonly detected in those three insect groups, but their compositions are distinct at lower taxonomic levels. Eusocial insects harbor unique gut bacterial communities that are shared within host species, while their stability varies depending on host physiology and ecology. Species with narrow dietary habits, such as eusocial bees, harbor highly stable and intraspecific microbial communities, while generalists, such as most ant species, exhibit relatively diverse community structures. Caste differences could influence the relative abundance of community members without significantly altering the taxonomic composition.
Susceptibility of Diaphorina citri to Irradiation with UV-A and UV-B and the Applicability of the Bunsen–Roscoe Reciprocity Law
Authors: Parajuli Sabina , Beattie George Andrew Charles , Holford Paul , Yang Chuping , Cen Yijing
Published: May 2023

Populations of Diaphorina citri decline with elevation and, in a study in Bhutan, were rarely found above 1200 m ASL. The impact of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UV-B, on immature stages of the psyllid was proposed as limiting factor. As no studies have been undertaken on the influences of UV radiation on the development of D. citri, we examined the effects of UV-A and UV-B on different stadia of the psyllid. In addition, compliance with the Bunsen–Roscoe reciprocity law was examined. Irradiation with UV-A marginally reduced egg hatch and the survival times of emerging nymphs. Early instar nymphs were little affected by this waveband, but the survival of adults was reduced at the higher doses used. With UV-B, egg hatch and the survival times of early and late instar nymphs declined in proportion to UV-B dose. A dose of 57.6 kJ m−2 d−1 reduced the survival time of only adult females. Female fecundity was reduced at high UV-A and UV-B doses but increased at low doses. The Bunsen–Roscoe law held true for eggs and early instar nymphs for different durations and irradiances of UV-B. Eggs and nymphs had ED50 values for UV-B lower than the daily fluxes of this wavelength experienced worldwide. Thus, UV-B could be a factor causing the psyllid to be scarce at high elevations.
Obesity, Preserved Ejection Fraction Heart Failure, and Left Ventricular Remodeling
Authors: Stencel Jason , Alai Hamid R. , Dhore-patil Aneesh , Urina-Jassir Daniela , Le Jemtel Thierry H.
Published: May 2023

Owing to the overwhelming obesity epidemic, preserved ejection fraction heart failure commonly ensues in patients with severe obesity and the obese phenotype of preserved ejection fraction heart failure is now commonplace in clinical practice. Severe obesity and preserved ejection fraction heart failure share congruent cardiovascular, immune, and renal derangements that make it difficult to ascertain whether the obese phenotype of preserved ejection fraction heart failure is the convergence of two highly prevalent conditions or severe obesity enables the development and progression of the syndrome of preserved ejection fraction heart failure. Nevertheless, the obese phenotype of preserved ejection fraction heart failure provides a unique opportunity to assess whether sustained and sizeable loss of excess body weight via metabolic bariatric surgery reverses the concentric left ventricular remodeling that patients with preserved ejection fraction heart failure commonly display.
Hospitalisation Due to Community-Acquired Acute Kidney Injury and the Role of Medications: A Retrospective Audit
Authors: Duong Henna , Tesfaye Wubshet , Van Connie , Sud Kamal , Castelino Ronald L.
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study is to assess the use of high-risk medications in patients with community-acquired acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) and the differences in the characteristics and outcomes of CA-AKI based on the use of these medications. This is a retrospective audit of adults (≥35 years) with CA-AKI admitted to a large tertiary care hospital over a two-year period. We investigated the prevalence of SADMANS (sulfonylureas; angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors; diuretics; metformin; angiotensin receptor blockers; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; and sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors) medications use in people with CA-AKI prior to hospitalisation. Outcomes including CA-AKI severity, kidney function recovery and in-hospital mortality were examined and stratified by use of SADMANS medications. The study included 329 patients, with a mean (SD) age of 75 (12) years and a 52% proportion of females, who were hospitalised with CA-AKI. Most patients (77.5%) were taking at least one regular SADMANS medication upon admission. Overall, 40% of patients (n = 132) and 41% of those on SADMANS (n = 104) had hypovolaemia or associated symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea during admission. Over two-thirds (68.1%) had mild AKI on admission and patients who were taking SADMANS medications were more likely to have mild AKI. Patients on SADMANS had more comorbidities and a higher medication burden, but there were no differences in AKI severity on admission or outcomes such as length of hospitalisation, ICU admission, need for dialysis, recovery rates and mortality between the two groups. However, the high prevalence of SADMANS medications use among patients with CA-AKI indicates a potential for preventability of CA-AKI-led hospitalisations. Future studies are needed to gain better insights into the role of withholding this group of medications, especially during an acute illness.
Prevalence, Severity of Extension, and Risk Factors of Gingivitis in a 3-Month Pregnant Population: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gare Jocelyne , Kanoute Aida , Orsini Giovanna , Gonçalves Lucio Souza , Ali Alshehri Fahad , Bourgeois Denis , Carrouel Florence
Published: May 2023

The scope of this study was to assess the prevalence, severity of extension, and risk factors of gingivitis among pregnant women. In this cross-sectional study, 220 nulliparous women at 3 months of pregnancy were recruited in 2022 at the first obstetrical visit in Dakar, Senegal. Demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, prenatal clinical status, and oral clinical parameters were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to assess relationships between gingivitis and risk factors. Eighty-eight percent of women had gingivitis, 15% were classified as moderate and 73% as severe. A total of 66.7% (95% CI [28.8–92.1]) of the sites had bleeding on interdental brushing. The odds for gingivitis decreased significantly for women consuming more than five portions of fruits and vegetables per day (OR = 0.15; 95% CI [0.03–0.66]) and increased in women who had a professional activity (OR = 6.75; 95% CI [1.27–35.87]) and high education. Concomitantly, the percentage of dental plaque (OR = 131.6; 95% CI [10.80–1619.71] and the severity of clinical attachment loss (OR = 7.70; 95% CI [3.16–18.92]) were important risk factors. Inverse associations were observed with increasing body mass index (OR = 0.76; 95% CI [0.63–0.93]). Our results underline that gingivitis cases and bleeding were particularly high among 3-month pregnant women. Literacy and adequate oral hygiene actions to modify behaviors and to achieve meticulous biofilm disorganization could make a favorable change in the gingival health outcome. Additionally, further research is necessary to precisely determine the role of biofilm-induced gingivitis and systemic-induced gingivitis in improving gingival conditions.
Volumetric Changes of the Paranasal Sinuses with Age: A Systematic Review
Authors: Iturralde-Garrote Amaya , Sanz José Luis , Forner Leopoldo , Melo María , Puig-Herreros Clara
Published: May 2023

Background: There are four pairs of paranasal sinuses: maxillary, ethmoidal, frontal, and sphenoidal. It is common to see changes in size and shape throughout life, so understanding the effect of age on sinus volume can help in radiographic studies and in planning dental and surgical procedures in the sinus–nasal region. The aim of the present systematic review was to perform a qualitative synthesis of available studies which assess the volumetric characteristics of the sinuses and their changes according to age. Materials and Methods: The present review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A systematic advanced electronic search was performed in five databases (Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Lilacs) in June–July 2022. Studies that assessed the volumetric changes of paranasal sinuses with age were eligible for inclusion. A qualitative synthesis of the methodology and results of the included studies was performed. Quality assessment was performed using the NIH quality assessment tool. Results: A total of 38 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Most authors who studied the maxillary and ethmoidal sinuses concluded that it begins its development from birth until the maximum peak of growth, from which it begins to decrease in volume with age. Results regarding the volumetric changes of the frontal and sphenoidal sinuses are mixed. Conclusions: Based on the results of the studies included in the present review, it can be concluded that the volume of the maxillary and ethmoidal sinus appears to decrease with age. Conclusions on the volumetric changes of the sphenoidal and frontal sinuses require further evidence.
Fast Charging of a Thermal Accumulator Based on Paraffin with the Addition of 0.3 wt. % rGO
Authors: Baskakov Sergey A. , Baskakova Yulia V. , Kabachkov Eugene N. , Dvoretskaya Elizaveta V. , Vasilets Victor N. , Li Zhi , Shulga Yury M.
Published: May 2023

The composite of paraffin with reduced graphene oxide (paraffin/rGO) was obtained at 70 °C by the mechanical mixing of the components followed by ultrasonic dispersion. The introduction of only 0.3 wt.% rGO stained the paraffin black. It has been shown that thermal batteries made from 160 grams of pure paraffin and 160 grams of the composite are equally slow at charging when placed in boiling water. However, two minutes of microwave heating increases the temperature of the pure paraffin battery to only 32 °C, while the temperature of the paraffin/rGO composite battery rises to 74 °C, which is above the paraffin solid–liquid phase transition temperature.
Safety and Osteointegration of Titanium Screws Coated with a Fibroblast Growth Factor-2–Calcium Phosphate Composite Layer in Non-Human Primates: A Pilot Study
Authors: Matsumoto Yukei , Mutsuzaki Hirotaka , Hara Yuki , Nagashima Katsuya , Okano Eriko , Yanagisawa Yohei , Noguchi Hiroshi , Sankai Tadashi , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: May 2023

Spinal instrumentation surgery for older patients with osteoporosis is increasing. Implant loosening may occur due to inappropriate fixation in osteoporotic bone. Developing implants that achieve stable surgical results, even in osteoporotic bone, can reduce re-operation, lower medical costs, and maintain the physical status of older patients. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) promotes bone formation; thus, coating pedicle screws with an FGF-2–calcium phosphate (FGF-CP) composite layer is hypothesized to enhance osteointegration in spinal implants. We designed a long-term implantation pilot study that estimated the safety and bone-forming efficacy of pedicle screws coated with an FGF-CP composite layer in cynomolgus monkeys. Titanium alloy screws, either uncoated (controls) or aseptically coated with an FGF-CP composite layer, were implanted in the vertebral bodies of six female adult cynomolgus monkeys (three monkeys per group) for 85 days. Physiological, histological, and radiographic investigations were performed. There were no serious adverse events, and no radiolucent areas were observed around the screws in either group. The bone apposition rate in the intraosseous region was significantly higher in the FGF-CP group than in the controls. Moreover, as analyzed by Weibull plots, the bone formation rate of the FGF-CP group exhibited a significantly higher regression line slope than the control group. These results demonstrated that there was significantly less risk of impaired osteointegration in the FGF-CP group. Our pilot study suggests that FGF-CP-coated implants could promote osteointegration, be safe, and reduce the probability of screw loosening.
Alterations in Measures of Body Composition, Neuromuscular Performance, Hormonal Levels, Physiological Adaptations, and Psychometric Outcomes during Preparation for Physique Competition: A Systematic Review of Case Studies
Authors: Schoenfeld Brad J. , Androulakis-Korakakis Patroklos , Piñero Alec , Burke Ryan , Coleman Max , Mohan Adam E. , Escalante Guillermo , Rukstela Alexa , Campbell Bill , Helms Eric
Published: May 2023

The present paper aimed to systematically review case studies on physique athletes to evaluate longitudinal changes in measures of body composition, neuromuscular performance, chronic hormonal levels, physiological adaptations, and psychometric outcomes during pre-contest preparation. We included studies that (1) were classified as case studies involving physique athletes during the pre-contest phase of their competitive cycle; (2) involved adults (18+ years of age) as participants; (3) were published in an English-language peer-reviewed journal; (4) had a pre-contest duration of at least 3 months; (5) reported changes across contest preparation relating to measures of body composition (fat mass, lean mass, and bone mineral density), neuromuscular performance (strength and power), chronic hormonal levels (testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, leptin, and ghrelin), physiological adaptations (maximal aerobic capacity, resting energy expenditure, heart rate, blood pressure, menstrual function, and sleep quality), and/or psychometric outcomes (mood states and food desire). Our review ultimately included 11 case studies comprising 15 ostensibly drug-free athletes (male = 8, female = 7) who competed in various physique-oriented divisions including bodybuilding, figure, and bikini. The results indicated marked alterations across the array of analyzed outcomes, sometimes with high inter-individual variability and divergent sex-specific responses. The complexities and implications of these findings are discussed herein.
Immediate Effects of Isolated Lumbar Extension Resistance Exercise (ILEX) on Spine Posture and Mobility Measured with the IDIAG Spinal Mouse System
Authors: Domokos Bruno , Beer Lisa , Reuther Stefanie , Raschka Christoph , Spang Christoph
Published: May 2023

Posture and mobility are important aspects for spinal health. In the context of low back pain, strategies to alter postural anomalies (e.g., hyper/hypolordosis, hyper/hypokyphosis) and mobility deficits (e.g., bending restrictions) have been of interest to researchers and clinicians. Machine-based isolated lumbar extension resistance exercise (ILEX) has been used successfully for rehabilitation of patients suffering from low back pain. The aim of this study was to analyse the immediate effects of ILEX on spinal posture and mobility. In this interventional cohort study, the posture and mobility measures of 33 healthy individuals (m = 17, f = 16; mean age 30.0 years) were taken using the surface-based Spinal Mouse system (IDIAG M360©, Fehraltdorf, Switzerland). Individuals performed one exercise set to full exhaustion with an ILEX-device (Powerspine, Wuerzburg, Germany) in a standardized setup, including uniform range of motion and time under tension. Scans were made immediately before and after the exercise. There was an immediate significant decrease in standing lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis. No change could be observed in standing pelvic tilt. Mobility measures showed a significant decrease in the lumbar spine and an increase in the sacrum. The results show that ILEX alters spine posture and mobility in the short-term, which may benefit certain patient groups.
Lead-Free Cs3Bi2Br9 Perovskite Quantum Dots for Detection of Heavy Metal Cu2+ Ions in Seawater
Authors: Gao Yuefeng , Chen Baojiu
Published: May 2023

Seawater pollution caused by heavy metal ions is a growing concern among the public. Perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs) are ideal probes for detecting metal ions due to their exceptional sensing characteristics, including remarkable sensitivity, low detection limit, and good selectivity. However, traditional lead-based PeQDs exhibit drawbacks related to lead toxicity and poor water stability. Herein, lead-free halide PeQDs Cs3Bi2Br9 were synthesized using Bi3+ instead of Pb2+ via the ligand-assisted reprecipitation method. The luminescence performance of the precursor is analyzed with respect to the reaction conditions. The results reveal that the optimal reaction temperature is 80 °C, the ideal octylamine dosage is 35 μL, and the most effective reaction time is 10 min. Photoluminescence spectra of Cs3Bi2Br9 are analyzed at various temperatures and demonstrate that fluorescence intensity decreases as temperature increases. The value of the exciton binding energy (Eb) is determined to be 88.6 meV. Cs3Bi2Br9 PeQDs synthesized under the optimum reaction conditions are utilized as fluorescent probes to detect copper ions in seawater. Results from experiments demonstrate that the presence of copper ions markedly quenched the photoluminescence of Cs3Bi2Br9 owing to the effective transfer of electrons from Cs3Bi2Br9 to Cu2+. A strong linear correlation between the degree of quenching and the contents of Cu2+ is observed. Cs3Bi2Br9 PeQDs demonstrate a sensitivity and detection limit of 1.21 μM−1 and 98.3 nM, respectively. Furthermore, this probe exhibits good photostability, water stability, and selectivity for copper ions, thereby indicating its potential for detecting marine heavy metal contaminants.
Numerical Simulation of Nonlinear Wave Propagation from Deep to Shallow Water
Authors: Zheng Peng-Bo , Zhang Zhou-Hao , Zhang Hong-Sheng , Zhao Xue-Yi
Published: May 2023

Herein, a numerical model is proposed to simulate the nonlinear wave propagation from deep to shallow water and wave breaking phenomena. In the numerical model, the governing equations selected, in which the momentum equations were added to the eddy-viscous breaking and bottom friction terms to simulate the wave breaking phenomenon, are suitable for the wave propagation from deep to shallow water. The spatial derivations of the governing equations are discretized with the hybrid scheme, combining the finite-difference and finite-volume methods. To numerically simulate the nonlinear wave propagation in waters with various depths accurately, the non-conservative governing equations are reorganized as conservative to facilitate a total variation diminishing (TVD) type scheme using a Riemann solver. Extensive numerical tests of nonlinear wave propagation have been realized in waters with large relative water depths and varying water depths. The comparisons between numerical and analytical or experimental results indicated that the numerical results are reasonable and reliable, and the present numerical model can effectively simulate the wave-breaking phenomenon.
A Numerical Investigation of Supercavitation Vehicle’s Hydrodynamic Noise
Authors: Ye Jiacheng , Zhang Jing , Wang Yuebing , Zhao Peng
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the simulation results of the acoustic field around an underwater supercavitation vehicle under various operating conditions and analyzes the cavitation phenomenon and the hydrodynamic noise spectrum. Regarding the ventilated cavitation phenomenon, the simulation shows that low vehicle speed can reduce the threshold of the ventilated supercavitation, and high background pressure can enhance the stability of the supercavitation structure. As for hydrodynamic noise, firstly, the simulation results reveal that when cavitation occurs, the noise spectrum exhibits several characteristic peaks near 1 kHz and between 3 and 10 kHz. The overall noise amplitude demonstrates a descending trend between 10 and 40 kHz. Further, under natural cavitation conditions, a characteristic peak is detectable between 40 and 80 kHz. The influence of the operating conditions on the noise is essentially achieved by altering the scale of the cavitation flow: with the growth of the bubble flow scale, the noise between 3 and 10 kHz first increases and then decreases due to its own pulsation and the masking effect, while the noise between 10 to 40 kHz substantially reduces. On the other hand, if the scale expansion of bubble flow is related to the increase of ventilation flow, the noise amplitude near 1 kHz will increase significantly. These results provide theoretical support for studying the supercavitation vehicles’ noise and applying the ventilated supercavitation technology.
A Framework for Accurate Carbon Footprint Calculation in Seaports: Methodology Proposal
Authors: Issa Zadeh Seyed Behbood , López Gutiérrez José Santos , Esteban M. Dolores , Fernández-Sánchez Gonzalo , Garay-Rondero Claudia Lizette
Published: May 2023

According to the 2020 European Sea Ports Organization Environmental Report, ports are the second biggest environmental concern for climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the International Association of Ports and Harbors determined that seaports are carbon-intensive and environmentally harmful because of increased commercial and non-commercial activities surrounding them. Due to the urgent concern to address solutions in this research line, this study aims to present a frame of reference to estimate the Carbon Footprint in ports through an innovative method. The study design presents a Meta-Analyses Scoping Review based on the PRISMA-ScR methodology to analyse the current articles, normativity and primary resources related to the Carbon Footprint estimation approach in seaports. Then, a categorization for the new method of Carbon Footprint and scopes description calculation is presented. Besides, the Port of Valencia, a famous Spanish port, provides the case study to apply and confirm the approach. Findings state that this new approach, with the designation of new boundaries and factors affecting ports’ emissions would lead to an accurate estimation of the carbon footprint of ports. The originality and value of this work-study deliver scientific interpretations, reflections, and suggestions for future research and validation.
Dynamic Safety Assessment and Enhancement of Port Operational Infrastructure Systems during the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Wang Siqi , Yin Jingbo , Khan Rafi Ullah
Published: May 2023

Seaports function as lifeline systems in maritime transportation, facilitating critical processes like shipping, distribution, and allied cargo handling. These diverse subsystems constitute the Port Infrastructure System (PIS) and have intricate functional interdependencies. The PIS is vulnerable to several external disruptions, and the impact of COVID-19 is severe and unprecedented in this domain. Therefore, this study proposes a novel general port safety framework to cope with recurring hazards and crisis events like COVID-19 and to augment PIS safety through a multi-state failure system. The PIS is divided into three critical subsystems: shipping, terminal, and distribution infrastructure, thereby capturing its functional interdependency and intricacy. A dynamic input–output model is employed, incorporating the spatial variability and average delay of the disruption, to determine the PIS resilience capacity under the stated disruptions. This study simulates three disruption scenarios and determines the functional failure capacity of the system by generating a functional change curve in Simulink. This study offers viable solutions to port managers, terminal operators, and concerned authorities in the efficient running of intricate interdependent processes and in devising efficient risk control measures to enhance overall PIS resilience and reliability. As part of future studies, given the difficulty in obtaining relevant data and the relatively limited validation of the current model, we aim to improve the accuracy and reliability of our model and enhance its practical applicability to real-world situations with data collected from a real-world case study of a PIS system.
Application of Multi-Cylinder Synchronous Control for Telescopic Mechanism of Marine Steel Pile Cleaning Equipment
Authors: Li Chao , Pang Nan , Xu Kai , Geng Qingling , Wang Xiangyu , Yun Feihong , Gao Lei
Published: May 2023

In order to clean up marine fouling attached to marine steel pile, this paper proposed an innovative configuration scheme of the marine steel pile cleaning equipment by the scraping method and its telescopic mechanism by applying a multi-cylinder synchronous control strategy to the cleaning equipment, and produced a test prototype of the cleaning equipment that could solve the problem of cleaning equipment eccentricity and tilt in the field of ocean engineering. Based on the MATLAB Simulink module, a simulation model of the operation process of the telescopic mechanism of the marine steel pile cleaning equipment was established to complete the evaluation of the multi-cylinder synchronous control performance under multiple working conditions. Through the test, the synchronous working performance of the telescopic mechanism of the cleaning equipment under the no-load condition was preliminarily verified. The test results showed that under the no-load condition, the relative errors between the three cylinders and the target displacement were 0.8%, 0.4%, and 0.2%, respectively, and the cleaning equipment could reach the specified working position at the given working speed. The displacement synchronization error between each cylinder was 0.7 mm, 0.7 mm, and 0.6 mm, respectively, and the displacement synchronization error was controlled within 1 mm. The telescopic mechanism had good synchronization, which can ensure the stability and prevent the eccentricity and tilt during the cleaning equipment operation as well as provide a valuable reference for the manufacturing of cleaning equipment.
Validation of Automatic Cochlear Measurements Using OTOPLAN® Software
Authors: Paouris Dimitrios , Kunzo Samuel , Goljerová Irina
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Electrode length selection based on case-related cochlear parameters is becoming a standard pre-operative step for cochlear implantation. The manual measurement of the parameters is often time-consuming and may lead to inconsistencies. Our work aimed to evaluate a novel, automatic measurement method. Materials and Methods: A retrospective evaluation of pre-operative HRCT images of 109 ears (56 patients) was conducted, using a development version of the OTOPLAN® software. Inter-rater (intraclass) reliability and execution time were assessed for manual (surgeons R1 and R2) vs. automatic (AUTO) results. The analysis included A-Value (Diameter), B-Value (Width), H-Value (Height), and CDLOC-length (Cochlear Duct Length at Organ of Corti/Basilar membrane). Results: The measurement time was reduced from approximately 7 min ± 2 (min) (manual) to 1 min (AUTO). Cochlear parameters in mm (mean ± SD) for R1, R2 and AUTO, respectively, were A-value: 9.00 ± 0.40, 8.98 ± 0.40 and 9.16 ± 0.36; B-value: 6.81 ± 0.34, 6.71 ± 0.35 and 6.70 ± 0.40; H-value: 3.98 ± 0.25, 3.85 ± 0.25 and 3.76 ± 0.22; and the mean CDLoc-length: 35.64 ± 1.70, 35.20 ± 1.71 and 35.47 ± 1.87. AUTO CDLOC measurements were not significantly different compared to R1 and R2 (H0: Rx CDLOC = AUTO CDLOC: p = 0.831, p = 0.242, respectively), and the calculated intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for CDLOC was 0.9 (95% CI: 0.85, 0.932) for R1 vs. AUTO; 0.90 (95% CI: 0.85, 0.932) for R2 vs. AUTO; and 0.893 (95% CI: 0.809, 0.935) for R1 vs. R2. Conclusions: We observed excellent inter-rater reliability, a high agreement of outcomes, and reduced execution time using the AUTO method.
Extracapsular Tonsillectomy versus Intracapsular Tonsillotomy in Paediatric Patients with OSAS
Authors: Mesolella Massimo , Allosso Salvatore , Coronella Valentina , Massimilla Eva Aurora , Mansi Nicola , Motta Giovanni , Salerno Grazia , Motta Gaetano
Published: May 2023

Objective: The objective of our study was to compare our experience of intracapsular tonsillotomy performed with the help of a microdebrider usually used for adenoidectomy with results obtained from extracapsular surgery through dissection and from adenoidectomy in cases of people affected with OSAS, linked to adeno-tonsil hypertrophy, observed and treated in the last 5 years. Methods: 3127 children with adenotonsillar hyperplasia and OSAS-related clinical symptoms (aged between 3 and 12 years) underwent tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. A total of 1069 patients (Group A) underwent intracapsular tonsillotomy, while 2058 patients (Group B) underwent extracapsular tonsillectomy, from January 2014 to June 2018. The parameters considered in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the two different surgery techniques taken into consideration were as follows: the presence of possible postoperative complications, represented mainly by pain and perioperative bleeding; the level of postoperative respiratory obstruction compared with the original obstruction through night pulse oximetry, performed 6 months before and after the surgery; tonsillar hypertrophy relapse in Group A and/or the presence of residues in Group B with clinical evaluation performed 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after the surgery; and postoperative life quality, evaluated through submitting to parents the same survey proposed before the surgery 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after the surgery. Results: Regardless of the technique used (extracapsular tonsillectomy or intracapsular tonsillotomy), there was a clear improvement in both the obstructive respiratory symptomatology and quality of life in both patient groups, as highlighted by the pulse oximetry and the OSA-18 survey submitted later. Conclusions: Intracapsular tonsillotomy surgery has improved in terms of a reduction in postoperative bleeding cases and pain reduction, with an earlier return to patients’ usual lifestyle. Lastly, using a microdebrider with the intracapsular technique seems to be particularly effective in removing most of the tonsillar lymphatic tissue, leaving only a thin border of pericapsular lymphoid tissue and preventing lymphoid tissue regrowth during one year of follow-up.
How Can the Adoption of the Voluntary Guidelines Improve Public Policy and Women’s Access to Agricultural Land in Mexico, Guatemala, and Bolivia?
Authors: Sobrino-García Itziar
Published: May 2023

Rural women in Latin America continue to face serious obstacles in land tenure, especially in areas such as México, Guatemala, and Bolivia. Gender inequality in land access is related to male preference in inheritance legislation, male privilege in marriage and state programs of land distribution. Consequently, the activities implemented by governments have failed to take women into account. For this reason, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and several partner organizations developed a set of “Voluntary Guidelines” (VGs) on responsible governance of land tenure to reduce inequality. Therefore, the main objective is to determine the degree of governments’ commitment to the fight against inequality in access to land and the role of women regarding these rural areas of Latin America. For this, this research tests the compliance with the “Voluntary Guidelines” of the FAO in Mexico, Guatemala, and Bolivia.