bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Systems in Extremophile Marine Fish Species
Authors: Bakiu Rigers , Piva Elisabetta , Pacchini Sara , Santovito Gianfranco
Published: July 2024

Living in extreme environments, marine organisms face constant exposure to a range of stressors, such as high radiation levels, fluctuations in temperature, and oxidative stress. Understanding extremophile fishes is crucial because it gives us valuable insights into the biochemical, physiological, and developmental processes that govern life, by observing how they operate under natural stressors. Among the most fascinating adaptations is the existence of specialised enzymes and compounds that function as potent antioxidants, successfully counteracting reactive oxygen species’ deleterious effects. In this review, we analysed the findings from several studies on Antarctic and deep-sea fish species, while highlighting the environmental stressors effects toward the antioxidant system. The antioxidant defences of the considered extremophile fishes have been extensively studied, but there is still much to learn to fully understand this complex system, while the relative research is still ongoing. Consequently, we are properly anticipating further advancements over the next few years about our understanding of crucial physiological processes that support cell survival.
Transcriptional and Post-Translational Roles of Calcineurin in Cationic Stress and Glycerol Biosynthesis in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Santos Ronaldo Silva , Martins-Silva Gabriel , Padilla Adrián Adolfo Álvarez , Possari Mateus , Degello Sérgio Donnantuoni , Bernardes Brustolini Otávio J. , Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro , Vallim Marcelo Afonso , Pascon Renata C.
Published: July 2024

Stress management is an adaptive advantage for survival in adverse environments. Pathogens face this challenge during host colonization, requiring an appropriate stress response to establish infection. The fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans undergoes thermal, oxidative, and osmotic stresses in the environment and animal host. Signaling systems controlled by Ras1, Hog1, and calcineurin respond to high temperatures and osmotic stress. Cationic stress caused by Na+, K+, and Li+ can be overcome with glycerol, the preferred osmolyte. Deleting the glycerol phosphate phosphatase gene (GPP2) prevents cells from accumulating glycerol due to a block in the last step of its biosynthetic pathway. Gpp2 accumulates in a phosphorylated form in a cna1Δ strain, and a physical interaction between Gpp2 and Cna1 was found; moreover, the gpp2Δ strain undergoes slow growth and has attenuated virulence in animal models of infection. We provide biochemical evidence that growth in 1 M NaCl increases glycerol content in the wild type, whereas gpp2Δ, cna1Δ, and cnb1Δ mutants fail to accumulate it. The deletion of cnb1Δ or cna1Δ renders yeast cells sensitive to cationic stress, and the Gfp-Gpp2 protein assumes an abnormal localization. We suggest a mechanism in which calcineurin controls Gpp2 at the post-translational level, affecting its localization and activity, leading to glycerol biosynthesis. Also, we showed the transcriptional profile of glycerol-deficient mutants and established the cationic stress response mediated by calcineurin; among the biological processes differentially expressed are carbon utilization, translation, transmembrane transport, glutathione metabolism, oxidative stress response, and transcription regulation. To our knowledge, this is the first time that this transcriptional profile has been described. These results have implications for pathogen stress adaptability.
Seasonal Dynamics of Culturable Yeasts in Ornithogenically Influenced Soils in a Temperate Forest and Evaluation of Extracellular Enzyme Secretion in Tausonia pullulans at Different Temperatures
Authors: Glushakova Anna , Sharova Anna , Kachalkin Aleksey
Published: July 2024

The culturable yeast communities in temperate forest soils under the ornithogenic influence were studied in a seasonal dynamic. To investigate the intense ornithogenic influence, conventional and “live” feeders were used, which were attached to trees in the forest and constantly replenished throughout the year. It was found that the yeast abundance in the soil under strong ornithogenic influence reached the highest values in winter compared to the other seasons and amounted to 4.8 lg (cfu/g). This was almost an order of magnitude higher than the minimum value of yeast abundance in ornithogenic soils determined for summer. A total of 44 yeast species, 21 ascomycetes and 23 basidiomycetes, were detected in ornithogenic soil samples during the year. These included soil-related species (Barnettozyma californica, Cyberlindnera misumaiensis, Cutaneotrichosporon moniliiforme, Goffeauzyma gastrica, Holtermanniella festucosa, Leucosporidium creatinivorum, L. yakuticum, Naganishia adeliensis, N. albidosimilis, N. globosa, Tausonia pullulans, and Vanrija albida), eurybionts (yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans, Debaryomyces hansenii, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa), inhabitants of plant substrates and litter (Cystofilobasidium capitatum, Cys. infirmominiatum, Cys. macerans, Filobasidium magnum, Hanseniaspora uvarum, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, and Rh. babjevae) as well as a group of pathogenic and opportunistic yeast species (Arxiozyma bovina, Candida albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, Clavispora lusitaniae, and Nakaseomyces glabratus). Under an ornithogenic influence, the diversity of soil yeasts was higher compared to the control, confirming the uneven distribution of yeasts in temperate forest soils and their dependence on natural hosts and vectors. Interestingly, the absolute dominant species in ornithogenic soils in winter (when the topsoil temperature was below zero) was the basidiomycetous psychrotolerant yeast T. pullulans. It is regularly observed in various soils in different geographical regions. Screening of the hydrolytic activity of 50 strains of this species at different temperatures (2, 4, 10, 15 and 20 °C) showed that the activity of esterases, lipases and proteases was significantly higher at the cultivation temperature. Ornithogenic soils could be a source for the relatively easy isolation of a large number of strains of the psychrotolerant yeast T. pullulans to test, study and optimize their potential for the production of cold-adapted enzymes for industry.
Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses Revealed Lipid Differentiation Mechanisms in Agaricus bisporus at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Tao Mengjiao , Zhu Yiting , Chen Faxi , Fang Yilu , Han Yanqi , Yin Guohua , Li Nanyi
Published: July 2024

Agaricus bisporus is one of the most popular mushroom species in the world; however, mushrooms are highly susceptible to browning due to the absence of a protective cuticle layer and high respiration rate. The molecular mechanism underlying the process of mushroom browning needs to be explored. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomic and metabolomic data from A. bisporus at ambient temperature. Specifically, a total of 263 significantly changed metabolites and 4492 differentially expressed genes were identified. Lipid metabolites associated with cell membrane degradation were predominantly up-regulated during ambient storage. Transcriptomic data further revealed the alterations of the expression of membrane lipid metabolism-related enzymes. Additionally, energy metabolic processes and products such as glycolysis and linoleic acid changed significantly during ambient storage, indicating their potential roles in the quality deterioration of A. bisporus. These findings provide new insights into the underlying lipid metabolic mechanisms of A. bisporus during postharvest ambient storage and will provide values for mushroom preservation techniques.
Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis of Onychomycosis—Literature Review
Authors: Bulińska Barbara , Mazur-Milecka Magdalena , Sławińska Martyna , Rumiński Jacek , Nowicki Roman J.
Published: July 2024

Onychomycosis is a common fungal nail infection that is difficult to diagnose due to its similarity to other nail conditions. Accurate identification is essential for effective treatment. The current gold standard methods include microscopic examination with potassium hydroxide, fungal cultures, and Periodic acid-Schiff biopsy staining. These conventional techniques, however, suffer from high turnover times, variable sensitivity, reliance on human interpretation, and costs. This study examines the potential of integrating AI (artificial intelligence) with visualization tools like dermoscopy and microscopy to improve the accuracy and efficiency of onychomycosis diagnosis. AI algorithms can further improve the interpretation of these images. The review includes 14 studies from PubMed and IEEE databases published between 2010 and 2024, involving clinical and dermoscopic pictures, histopathology slides, and KOH microscopic images. Data extracted include study type, sample size, image assessment model, AI algorithms, test performance, and comparison with clinical diagnostics. Most studies show that AI models achieve an accuracy comparable to or better than clinicians, suggesting a promising role for AI in diagnosing onychomycosis. Nevertheless, the niche nature of the topic indicates a need for further research.
Cognitive, Neuropsychological and Biological Effects of Oxygen–Ozone Therapy on Frailty: A Study Protocol for a 5-Week, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Scassellati Catia , Bonvicini Cristian , Ciani Miriam , Zanardini Roberta , Tomasoni Evita , Saletti Valentina , Passeggia Ilaria , Almici Monica , Pagnoni Ilaria , Galoforo Antonio Carlo , Costa Mario , D’Onofrio Mara , Cattaneo Antonino , Geroldi Cristina
Published: July 2024

Cognitive frailty (CF) is a heterogeneous syndrome that is becoming one of the most serious health problems as the world’s population age is increasing. Elucidating its biological mechanisms as well as prevention and treatments is becoming increasingly significant, particularly in view of the associated health costs. We presented the study protocol of a research project funded by the Italian Ministry of Health (grant number RF-2016-02363298) aiming to investigate the cognitive and neuropsychological effects of a 5-week treatment with therapy based on the regenerative properties of ozone (O3) in a cohort of subjects stratified according to CF scores. We also studied the potential effects of O3 on blood-based biomarkers indicative of specific biological systems that may be altered in CF. Seventy-five older persons were recruited and randomly assigned to receive the active treatment (150 cc of oxygen-O2-O3 mixture at the concentration of 30 µg of O3 per cc of O2), O2, or the placebo (air) for 5 weeks. The main endpoints were the change in the scores of clinical scales from baseline (T0) to weeks 3 (T3), 9 (T9), and 15 (T15) after treatment and the change in biomarker levels resulting from transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomic patterns at the same times. The positive results from this study could have important clinical implications.
Effect of Prophylactic Tropisetron on Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Kim In Jung , Choi Geun Joo , Hwang Hyeon Joung , Kang Hyun
Published: July 2024

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with trial sequential analysis (TSA) aimed to comprehensively evaluate and compare the efficacy of the prophylactic administration of tropisetron in the prevention of the incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024372692). RCTs comparing the efficacy of the perioperative administration of tropisetron with that of a placebo, other anti-emetic agents, or a combination of anti-emetic injections were retrieved from the databases of Ovid-MEDLINE, Ovid-EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar. The frequency of rescue anti-emetic use (RA) and the incidence of PON, POV, and PONV (relative risk [RR]: 0.718; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.652–0.790; I2 = 0.0, RR: 0.587; 95% CI 0.455–0.757; I2 = 63.32, RR: 0.655; 95% CI 0.532–0.806; I2 = 49.09, and RR: 0.622; 95% CI 0.552–0.700; I2 = 0.00, respectively) in the tropisetron group were lower than those in the control group; however, the incidence of complete response (CR) was higher in the tropisetron group (RR: 1.517;95% CI 1.222–1.885; I2 = 44.14). TSA showed the cumulative Z-curve exceeded both the conventional test and trial sequential monitoring boundaries for RA, PON, POV, and PONV between the tropisetron group and the control group. Thus, the prophylactic administration of tropisetron exhibited superior efficacy in the prevention of PON, POV, and PONV. Furthermore, a lower incidence of RA and a higher incidence of CR were observed with its use.
Long COVID Is Not a Functional Neurologic Disorder
Authors: Davenport Todd E. , Blitshteyn Svetlana , Clague-Baker Nicola , Davies-Payne David , Treisman Glenn J. , Tyson Sarah F.
Published: July 2024

Long COVID is a common sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data from numerous scientific studies indicate that long COVID involves a complex interaction between pathophysiological processes. Long COVID may involve the development of new diagnosable health conditions and exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions. However, despite this rapidly accumulating body of evidence regarding the pathobiology of long COVID, psychogenic and functional interpretations of the illness presentation continue to be endorsed by some healthcare professionals, creating confusion and inappropriate diagnostic and therapeutic pathways for people living with long COVID. The purpose of this perspective is to present a clinical and scientific rationale for why long COVID should not be considered as a functional neurologic disorder. It will begin by discussing the parallel historical development of pathobiological and psychosomatic/sociogenic diagnostic constructs arising from a common root in neurasthenia, which has resulted in the collective understandings of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and functional neurologic disorder (FND), respectively. We will also review the case definition criteria for FND and the distinguishing clinical and neuroimaging findings in FND vs. long COVID. We conclude that considering long COVID as FND is inappropriate based on differentiating pathophysiologic mechanisms and distinguishing clinical findings.
How Does Nerve Mechanical Interface Treatment Impact Pre-Surgical Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Patients? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hernández-Secorún Mar , Abenia-Benedí Hugo , Lucha-López María Orosia , Durán-Serrano María , Hamam-Alcober Javier Sami , Krauss John , Hidalgo-García César
Published: July 2024

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) presents a high burden on the healthcare system. However, no alternative treatments are provided during the waiting period. In addition, the incidence of severe patients with comorbidities is underestimated. The aim of this study was to determine whether nerve mechanical interface treatment improves the symptoms, function, and quality of life in pre-surgical CTS patients. Methods: A randomized controlled trial and intention-to-treat analysis were carried out. Forty-two patients with an electrodiagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, included on the surgery waiting list of a public healthcare system, were analyzed. The intervention group (n = 20) received a 45 min session/per week of instrument-assisted manual therapy (diacutaneous fibrolysis) for 3 weeks. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) was the primary outcome. The symptoms, mechanical threshold, grip strength, mechanosensitivity of the median nerve, quality of life, and patient satisfaction were included as secondary outcomes. The control group (n = 22) remained on the waiting list. Results: The intervention seems to be beneficial for the BCTQ score (function and symptoms scale), pain, and mechanosensitivity after treatment, at the 3 and 6 months follow-up (p < 0.05). Kinesiophobia was improved at 6 months (p = 0.043; η2 = 0.10) and the mechanical threshold at the 3-month follow-up (p = 0.048; η2 = 0.10). No differences were identified for grip strength. At 6 months, the intervention group patients were satisfied (100%), as opposed to the controls, who felt that they had experienced a worsening of their condition (50.1%). Conclusions: Nerve mechanical interface treatment improved the symptoms, function, and quality of life in pre-surgical CTS patients. One hundred percent of the treated patients, characterized as moderate and severe CTS with associated comorbidities, were satisfied.
Radiosurgery in Grade II and III Meningiomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jahanbakhshi Amin , Najafi Masoumeh , Gomar Marzieh , Ciammella Patrizia , Ruggieri Maria Paola , Iotti Cinzia , Finocchi Ghersi Sebastiano , Serre Anne-Agathe , Bardoscia Lilia , Sardaro Angela , Boisbouvier Sophie , Roukoz Camille , Cozzi Salvatore
Published: July 2024

Background: Meningiomas are the most prevalent benign intracranial tumors. When they are of the invasive subtypes, i.e., grades II and III, they can recur rapidly and present a real challenge for physicians. This study is focused on the use of stereotactic radiosurgery to manage high-grade meningiomas. Method: Medline via PubMed was searched from inception to December 2022 to retrieve studies on stereotactic radiation therapy for patients with grade II-III meningiomas. This study was conducted under PRISMA guidelines. Result: A total of 29 articles involving 1446 patients with grade II-III meningiomas treated with stereotactic radiation therapy were included in the present study. Of these studies, 11 were conducted exclusively on patients with atypical meningiomas (grade II), 1 targeted anaplastic meningiomas (grade III), and 17 articles were carried out on both grade II and III meningiomas. The pooled 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10-year overall survival (OS) of grade II meningiomas was 0.96 [p < 0.01], 0.89 [p = 0.01], 0.90 [p = 0.09], 0.81 [p < 0.01], and 0.66 [p = 0.55], respectively. The pooled 2, 5, and 10-year OS of grade III meningiomas was 0.64 [p = 0.01], 0.41 [p = 0.01], and 0.19 [p < 0.01], respectively. Conclusions: Although long-term prospective studies are still required, the outcomes of stereotactic radiation therapy appear promising regarding overall outcome and progression-free survival.
A Comparison of Norepinephrine versus Phenylephrine to Prevent Hypotension after Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Section: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kang Hyun , Sung Tae-Yun , Jee Young Seok , Kwon Woojin , Cho Sung-Ae , Ahn Somin , Cho Choon-Kyu
Published: July 2024

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of using phenylephrine or norepinephrine on the pH and base excess (BE) of the umbilical artery and vein in parturients undergoing cesarean section. Methods: The study protocol was registered in INPLASY. Independent researchers searched Ovid-Medline, Ovid-EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases and Google Scholar for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcome of this study was the umbilical artery (UA) or umbilical vein (UV) pH as neonatal condition at birth, and the secondary outcome was the UA or UV BE as an additional prognostic value over the measurement of umbilical pH. Results: There was no evidence of a difference between phenylephrine and norepinephrine for overall, UA, and UV pH (mean difference (MD) −0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.004 to 0.007; MD 0.000, 95%CI −0.004 to 0.004; and MD 0.002, 95%CI −0.013 to 0.017). There was also no evidence of a difference between phenylephrine and norepinephrine for overall, UA, and UV BE (MD 0.096, 95% CI −0.258 to 0.451; MD 0.076, 95%CI −0.141 to 0.294; and MD 0.121, 95%CI; −0.569 to 0.811). A meta-regression showed that factors such as umbilical artery or vein, infusion method, single or twin, and the number of parturients per study had no effect on the UA pH, UV pH, UA BE, or UV BE. No evidence of publication bias was detected. Conclusions: There was no evidence of a difference between phenylephrine and norepinephrine for umbilical pH and BE. A subgroup analysis and meta-regression also did not show evidence of differences.
PyCaret for Predicting Type 2 Diabetes: A Phenotype- and Gender-Based Approach with the “Nurses’ Health Study” and the “Health Professionals’ Follow-Up Study” Datasets
Authors: Gul Sebnem , Ayturan Kubilay , Hardalaç Fırat
Published: July 2024

Predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by using phenotypic data with machine learning (ML) techniques has received significant attention in recent years. PyCaret, a low-code automated ML tool that enables the simultaneous application of 16 different algorithms, was used to predict T2DM by using phenotypic variables from the “Nurses’ Health Study” and “Health Professionals’ Follow-up Study” datasets. Ridge Classifier, Linear Discriminant Analysis, and Logistic Regression (LR) were the best-performing models for the male-only data subset. For the female-only data subset, LR, Gradient Boosting Classifier, and CatBoost Classifier were the strongest models. The AUC, accuracy, and precision were approximately 0.77, 0.70, and 0.70 for males and 0.79, 0.70, and 0.71 for females, respectively. The feature importance plot showed that family history of diabetes (famdb), never having smoked, and high blood pressure (hbp) were the most influential features in females, while famdb, hbp, and currently being a smoker were the major variables in males. In conclusion, PyCaret was used successfully for the prediction of T2DM by simplifying complex ML tasks. Gender differences are important to consider for T2DM prediction. Despite this comprehensive ML tool, phenotypic variables alone may not be sufficient for early T2DM prediction; genotypic variables could also be used in combination for future studies.
The Effect of Intra-Articular Injections of Hyaluronic Acid for the Treatment of Trapezio-Metacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis
Authors: Agostini Francesco , Bressanin Elena , de Sire Alessandro , Finamore Nikolaos , Alviti Federica , Santilli Valter , Bernetti Andrea , Paoloni Marco , Mangone Massimiliano
Published: July 2024

Background: Osteoarthritis of the basal thumb joint is a debilitating disease with a high prevalence. Among pharmacological treatments, intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid have been clinically applied. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid for the treatment of trapezio-metacarpal joint osteoarthritis (TMOA), over a one-year period. Methods: Patients with TMOA were enrolled and treated with five consecutive intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (20 mg/2 mL, 500–750 KDa, HyalganBio) at weekly intervals. Primary outcomes were pain during different activities (changes in numerical rating scale) and function (pinch and grip strength), and secondary outcomes were safety (adverse events) and patient-reported outcomes (quick-DASH and SF-12). The outcomes were evaluated at baseline and 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12- months after the last injection. Results: A total of 29 patients were included. All participants completed the five injective sessions and the first follow-up. A total of 15 patients completed the study. During the follow-up period, intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid have significantly reduced spontaneous and provoked pain and improved disability. No severe systemic adverse events were reported. Conclusions: At a follow-up of up to 12 months, patients with TMOA treated with intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections reported improvements in pain relief and quality of life.
Advancements in Custom 3D-Printed Titanium Interbody Spinal Fusion Cages and Their Relevance in Personalized Spine Care
Authors: Lewandrowski Kai-Uwe , Vira Shaleen , Elfar John , Lorio Morgan
Published: July 2024

3D-printing technology has revolutionized spinal implant manufacturing, particularly in developing personalized and custom-fit titanium interbody fusion cages. These cages are pivotal in supporting inter-vertebral stability, promoting bone growth, and restoring spinal alignment. This article reviews the latest advancements in 3D-printed titanium interbody fusion cages, emphasizing their relevance in modern personalized surgical spine care protocols applied to common clinical scenarios. Furthermore, the authors review the various printing and post-printing processing technologies and discuss how engineering and design are deployed to tailor each type of implant to its patient-specific clinical application, highlighting how anatomical and biomechanical considerations impact their development and manufacturing processes to achieve optimum osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties. The article further examines the benefits of 3D printing, such as customizable geometry and porosity, that enhance osteointegration and mechanical compatibility, offering a leap forward in patient-specific solutions. The comparative analysis provided by the authors underscores the unique challenges and solutions in designing cervical, and lumbar spine implants, including load-bearing requirements and bioactivity with surrounding bony tissue to promote cell attachment. Additionally, the authors discuss the clinical outcomes associated with these implants, including the implications of improvements in surgical precision on patient outcomes. Lastly, they address strategies to overcome implementation challenges in healthcare facilities, which often resist new technology acquisitions due to perceived cost overruns and preconceived notions that hinder potential savings by providing customized surgical implants with the potential for lower complication and revision rates. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into how modern 3D-printed titanium interbody fusion cages are made, explain quality standards, and how they may impact personalized surgical spine care.
Optimal Spending Strategies for Sovereign Wealth Funds Using a Discrete-Time Life Cycle Model
Authors: Aase Knut Kristian
Published: July 2024

The paper analyses optimal spending of an endowment fund. The purpose is to find a spending rule which is optimal for the owners and which secures that the fund will last “forever”. This we do by finding closed form solutions of the optimal consumption to wealth ratio. We solve this problem using the life cycle model, where the agent can have preferences represented by expected utility or recursive utility. We apply our results to a sovereign wealth fund, and demonstrate that the optimal spending rate is significantly lower than the fund’s expected real rate of return, a rule which is in common use. Employing the latter as the spending rate, implies that the fund’s value deteriorates both in probability and in expectation, as time goes. For both kinds of long term convergence we find closed form threshold values. Spending below these values secures a sustainable fund.
An Evaluation of the Dust Emission Characteristics of Typical Underlying Surfaces in an Aeolian Region in the Middle Reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Ma Mingjie , Zha Duo , He Qing , Yang Xinghua , Yang Fan , Mamtimin Ali , Zheng Xiannian , Sun Han
Published: July 2024

Some of the most severe aeolian damage occurs along the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet. Dust emission amounts (DEAs) are often used to assess aeolian damage; however, the research on DEAs in this area is currently almost blank. This article uses field-measured wind speed data from 2021 to 2022 in the Shannan wide valley area, combined with the Gillette dust emission estimation model to quantitatively determine the contributions of three surface types (riverbank quicksand area, foothill sand dunes, and the river floodplain vegetation area) to DEAs in the research area. The influence of surface characteristics on DEAs is analyzed and discussed. The results show the following: (1) The threshold friction velocity (u*t) in the riverbank quicksand area, foothill sand dunes, and the river floodplain vegetation area is 30.6 cm/s, 71.2 cm/s, and 85.6 cm/s, respectively, the threshold velocity (ut) is 6.1 m/s, 7.0 m/s, and 7.5 m/s, respectively, and the vegetation area is 2.8 times and 1.3 times that of the quicksand area, respectively. (2) The DEAs were in the following order: the riverbank quicksand area (652.9 t/km2) > foothill sand dunes (326.5 t/km2) > the river floodplain vegetation area (107.8 t/km2), the riverbank quicksand area is about 6.1 times that of the river floodplain vegetation area, and DEAs are a significant seasonal distribution: winter (44.7%) > spring (28.3%) > autumn (15.7%) > summer (11.3%). (3) The DEAs from the dusty weather were in the following order: blowing sand (60.2%) > sandstorms (28.6%) > gusty winds (11.2%). (4) The DEAs increase with the increase in the average wind speed greater than 6.1 m/s, but the increase rate is obviously different, which showed that Changguo and Azha are greater than Sangyesi, Duopazhang, Sangri, and Senburi. At approximately the same average wind speed greater than 6.1 m/s, the DEAs in the quicksand area are much greater than in the vegetation area.
A Coordination Analysis on Rural Revitalization and Tourism High-Quality Development along the Silk Road Economic Belt, China
Authors: Zhu Haiqiang , Tang Junhu , Xie Xia , Ding Zhaolong , Gong Lu
Published: July 2024

There is limited analysis of the role of tourism in rural revitalization (RR) from a high-quality development perspective. To address this gap, this study analyzes the spatiotemporal patterns and coupling coordination degree (CCD) of tourism high-quality development (THD) and RR in the Silk Road Economic Belt from 2011 to 2020 using coupling coordination and gravity models. A geographic detector is employed to quantitatively elucidate the factors influencing the CCD. The findings are as follows. (1) The comprehensive RR level increased 86% from 2011 to 2020, whereas the THD level first increased and then decreased. The southwest region outperformed the northwest in RR and THD levels. (2) The CCD between RR and THD displayed various degrees of increase, with a spatial pattern of higher levels in the southwest and lower levels in the northwest. The spatial linkage strength of the CCD first increased and then decreased, with tighter linkages among the southwestern provinces. (3) Public fiscal expenditure, per capita GDP, and science and education spending significantly affected the CCD. In conclusion, the effective coordination of THD and RR requires a focus on their spatiotemporal coupling characteristics and the joint regulation of multiple factors.
Simulation of Urban Growth Boundary under the Guidance of Stock Development: A Case Study of Wuhan City
Authors: Zhang Yang , Xia Xiaojiang , Li Jiandong , Xing Luge , Yang Chengchao , Wang Haofeng , Dai Xiaoai , Wang Jue
Published: July 2024

The implementation of an urban growth boundary (UGB) can effectively control urban sprawl and promote efficient land use, which is crucial for future urban development. However, most of existing studies overlook the reuse of existing idle and inefficient land within the city in the delineation of UGBs. With China’s urban construction shifting from incremental development to stock development, this study focuses on Wuhan and presents a set of technical approaches for delineating UGBs with a stock development orientation. First, a built-up area composite index (POI&ISA) is constructed based on point of interest (POI) kernel density analysis and impervious surface index extraction to evaluate constructive levels in 2010 and 2020 and identify the urban vitality zone. Then, we combine the current land use status and control policies to divide the urban spatial development potential into five categories: urban vitality land, urban non-vitality land, other vitality land, other non-vitality land, and restricted development land. Finally, the PLUS model is applied in the analysis of the driving forces of land use change in Wuhan, simulating the UGBs in three stages of incremental development (2020–2030), incremental and stock development (2030–2040), and stock development (2040–2050). Finally, the PLUS model simulation projects the UGB areas to be 436.436 km2, 474.617 km2, and 520.396 km2 for the years 2030, 2040, and 2050, respectively. The predicted timespan of urban development extends up to 30 years, serving as a reliable reference for Wuhan’s long-term and near-term planning.
Criminalizing Abuse, Neglect, and Financial Exploitation of Older Adults
Authors: Brancale Julie N. , Blomberg Thomas G.
Published: July 2024

The criminalization of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of older adults did not begin until the late 1990s in the United States. During this time, a number of states enacted laws criminalizing certain abusive and exploitive behaviors committed against older adults and added punishment enhancements to existing laws if victims were over a certain age. These laws and policies, and the impetus for them, mirrored those enacted decades prior as part of the child welfare movement, with connections drawn between the vulnerability of younger and older victims. Despite passage of these various abuse and exploitation laws for older adults, significant challenges remain in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of crimes committed against this population. Further, the population of older adults has been rapidly expanding along with rates of victimization, elevating the importance of this escalating social problem. This paper identifies limitations in the prior research by describing the past, present, and likely future of U.S. law and policy intended to effectively respond to crimes against older adults and concludes with a research and policy agenda.
Theoretical Model Development and Mixed Lubrication Analyses of Rolling Piston Type Rotary Compressors: A Review
Authors: Wen Chengwei , Bai Pengpeng , Zhang Hang , Zhang Shuaijun , Meng Xianghui , Meng Yonggang , Tian Yu
Published: July 2024

Owing to the requirements for high performance and long life, the friction and wear problems of rolling piston type rotary compressors have drawn much attention. Various theoretical models have been developed and improved to reveal the inner state of the compressor and obtain the optimization schemes. However, there remain some disadvantages and research gaps in the corresponding modeling and mixed lubrication analyses, and a comprehensive summary is lacking. To have a better understanding of the research status, this paper reviews the theoretical model development and mixed lubrication analyses of the compressor in the past decades. The determination of compression pressure, the modeling process of moving components, and the key findings are presented in detail. On this basis, some important influencing factors and the problems remaining to be solved are also discussed. This paper provides multifaceted guidance for manufacturers and researchers to conduct further theoretical analysis and optimal design.
Turning Waste into Treasure: Invasive Plant Ambrosia trifida L Leaves as a High-Efficiency Inhibitor for Steel in Simulated Pickling Solutions
Authors: Sun Xin , Tian Huiwen , Zou Fangxin , Li Weihua , Qiang Yujie , Hou Baorong
Published: July 2024

High toxicity is the main reason for the limited application of traditional corrosion inhibitors. Herein, it is critical to find a green, efficient, and long-term stable alternative substitute for the hazardous and conventional corrosion inhibitor. Ambrosia trifida L is widely distributed in fields and riverside wetlands as an invasive plant in China. According to the concept of turning waste into treasure, the extract of Ambrosia trifida L leaves (ATL) has the potential to address this issue due to its natural origin and abundant presence of heterocyclic organics. Therefore, ATL, as a green corrosion inhibitor, is prepared for the first time via a simple water-based extraction method. FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and UV-Vis (UV-visible) indicate that ATL extract contains abundant heterocyclic organics with conjugated structures, which exhibit the potential to become a high-efficiency inhibitor. Notably, the active sites of ATL molecules and their interaction with Q235 steel at the molecular/atomic level are revealed via theoretical calculations. The highest Ebinding value observed for the major components in the ATL extract is 259.66 kcal/mol, implying a significant adsorption capacity. The electrochemical results verify that microdose ATL extract can prominently inhibit steel corrosion, and the highest inhibition efficiency (η) is 97.5% (1000 mg/L). Following immersion for 24 h, the η value is enhanced to 99.0%, indicating a reliable and long-term ATL extract protection film is formed on the steel surface in harsh acidic solutions. The results of the weight loss, SEM (scanning electron microscope), and LSCM (laser scanning confocal microscopy) are consistent with the above conclusions. Finally, this study anticipates providing theoretical support for developing novel green plant extract inhibitors and aiding in their application in industrial pickling environments.
Advanced Electrode Materials Dedicated for Electroanalysis
Authors: Brycht Mariola , Burnat Barbara , Skrzypek Sławomira
Published: July 2024

The development of advanced electrode materials has significantly enhanced the capabilities of electrochemical devices, enabling their application in diverse fields such as environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, food safety, and industrial processes [...]
Optimization Design of Cogging Torque for Electric Power Steering Motors
Authors: Zhang Guoguang , Hou Peng
Published: July 2024

Excessive cogging torque can cause torque fluctuations, noise, and vibration in electric power steering (EPS) motors, which is a key factor in the high-precision and high-performance optimization design of EPS motors for electric vehicles. This article takes a 12-slot 10-pole electric power steering motor for a certain car as an example. By establishing the corresponding electromagnetic field model and theoretical analysis of the motor, the influence of the pole arc coefficient and eccentricity parameters of the permanent magnet on the cogging torque of the electric power steering motor is explored. A comprehensive optimization scheme for reducing the cogging torque of the motor structure is proposed. The effectiveness of the designed scheme was verified through finite-element simulation and experimental testing of motor electromagnetism. Compared with the original design, the optimized structure of the EPS motor resulted in an 86.62% reduction in cogging torque during experimental testing.
Extrusion-Based Bioprinting in a Cost-Effective Bioprinter
Authors: Dharmaraj Jones Joseph Jebaraj , Navasingh Rajesh Jesudoss Hynes , Krolczyk Grzegorz , Pitchumani Shenbaga Velu
Published: July 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has emerged as a revolutionary approach in the life sciences, combining multiple disciplines such as computer engineering, materials science, robotics, and biomedical engineering. This innovative technology enables the production of cellular constructs using bio-inks, and differs from conventional 3D printing by incorporating living cells. The present work addresses the conversion of a commercial thermoplastic 3D printer into a low-cost bioprinter. The modification addresses the challenges of the high cost of commercial bioprinters, limited adaptability, and specialized personnel requirements. This modification uses an extrusion-based bioprinting method that is particularly popular in research due to its viscosity tolerance and versatility. The individual steps, including replacing the extruder with a syringe pump, rebuilding the electronic motherboard, and configuring the firmware, are explained in detail. The work aims at providing access to bioprinting technology so that laboratories with modest resources can take advantage of the immense potential of this technology. This modification resulted in improved resolution, allowing submicron movements, which is comparable to some of the commercially available bioprinters. The accuracy of the modified printer was validated using hydrogel bioprinting tests, suggesting that it is suitable for broader applications in regenerative medicine.
Design and Development of a Flexible Manufacturing Cell Controller Using an Open-Source Communication Protocol for Interoperability
Authors: Tzimas Evangelos , Papazetis George , Benardos Panorios , Vosniakos George-Christopher
Published: July 2024

Flexible manufacturing cells provide significant advantages in low-volume mass-customization production but also induce added complexity and technical challenges in terms of integration, control, and extensibility. The variety of closed-source industrial protocols, the heterogeneous equipment, and the product’s manufacturing specifications are main points of consideration in the development of such a system. This study aims to describe the approach, from concept to implementation, for the development of the controller for a flexible manufacturing cell consisting of heterogeneous equipment in terms of functions and communication interfaces. Emphasis is put on the considerations and challenges for effective integration, extensibility, and interoperability. Scheduling and monitoring performed by the developed controller are demonstrated for a manufacturing cell producing microfluidic devices (bioMEMS) that consists of six workstations and a robot-based handling system. Communication between the system controller and the workstations was based on open-source technologies instead of proprietary software and protocols, to support interoperability and, to a considerable extent, code reusability.
Multidisciplinary Collaborative Design Optimization of Electric Shovel Working Devices
Authors: Wu Juan , Zhao Junkang , Wang Xin , Lin Baoguo
Published: July 2024

The development of the open-pit mining industry has set higher performance standards for mining electric shovels. Addressing issues such as low efficiency, high energy consumption, and high failure rates in working mining electric shovel devices, this paper comprehensively considers bulk mechanics, structural mechanics, and dynamics to conduct a multidisciplinary, collaborative design optimization for electric shovels by introducing the BLISCO method, which is based on an approximated model, into the structural-optimization design process of working electric shovel devices, aiming to enhance the overall performance of electric shovels. Firstly, a dynamic model of an electric shovel is established to analyze the hoist force and crowd force during the excavation process, and an accurate load input for the dynamic analysis is provided through the bulk material mechanics model. Additionally, to ensure that the stiffness of the boom meets the requirements, the maximum stress at the most critical position of the optimized boom is considered. Subsequently, the design variables are screened through experimental design, and an approximate model is established. Focusing on the hoist force, crowd force, maximum stress at the critical position of the boom, and the angle between the dipper arm and the wire rope, a mathematical model is constructed and optimized using a two-level integrated system co-optimization framework based on an approximate model (BLISCO-AM), followed by a simulation. Finally, a test bench for the electric shovel working device is constructed to compare pre- and post-optimization performance. Experimental results show that through the optimized design, the hoist force and crowd force required in a single excavation process are reduced by 6% and 8.48%, respectively, and the maximum angle between the wire rope and the dipper arm is increased by 4%, significantly improving excavation efficiency while ensuring the safety and reliability of the equipment.
A Predator–Prey System with a Modified Leslie–Gower and Prey Stage Structure Scheme in Deterministic and Stochastic Environments
Authors: Wang Xiaoran , Liu Huimei , Zhao Wencai
Published: July 2024

The evolution of the population ecosystem is closely related to resources and the environment. Assuming that the environmental capacity of a predator population is positively correlated with the number of prey, and that the prey population has a sheltered effect, we investigated a predator–prey model with a juvenile–adult two-stage structure. The dynamical behaviour of the model was examined from two distinct environmental perspectives, deterministic and stochastic, respectively. For the deterministic model, the conditions for the existence of equilibrium points were obtained by comprehensive use of analytical and geometric methods, and the local and global asymptotic stability of each equilibrium point was discussed. For the stochastic system, the effect of noise intensity on the long-term dynamic behavior of the population was investigated. By constructing appropriate Lyapunov functions, the criteria that determined the extinction of the system and the ergodic stationary distribution were given. Finally, through concrete examples and numerical simulations, the understanding of the dynamic properties of the model was deepened. The results show that an improvement in the predator living environment would lead to the decrease in the prey population, while more prey shelters could lead to the decline or even extinction of predator populations.
Statins during Anticoagulation for Emergency Life-Threatening Venous Thromboembolism: A Review
Authors: Siniscalchi Carmine , Imbalzano Egidio , Meschi Tiziana , Ticinesi Andrea , Prati Beatrice , Basaglia Manuela , Camporese Giuseppe , Perrella Alessandro , Viorica Andreev , Eletto Elisa , Russo Vincenzo , Simioni Paolo
Published: July 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the leading cause of morbidity and death worldwide, after cancer and cardiovascular diseases. VTE is defined to include pulmonary embolism (PE) and/or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Approximately 25% of PE patients experience sudden death as an initial symptom of VTE, and between 10% and 30% of patients die within the first month after diagnosis. Currently, the only drugs approved for the treatment of both acute and chronic VTE are vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). However, their effectiveness is limited due to their associated risk of bleeding. Ideally, therapy should be able to treat VTE and limit the risk of VTE recurrence without increasing the risk of bleeding. Several studies have shown that the use of statins during anticoagulation for VTE reduces the risk of death and VTE recurrence. However, to date, there are conflicting data on the impact of statins during anticoagulation for VTE. A biological protective function of statins during anticoagulation has also been reported. Statins affect D-dimer levels; tissue factor (TF) gene expression; and VIII, VII, and Von Willebrand clotting factors—the major clotting factors they are able to affect. However, the usefulness of statins for the treatment and prevention of VTE is currently under debate, and they should not be substituted for guideline-recommended VTE prophylaxis or anticoagulation treatment. In this review of the literature, we illustrate the advances on this topic, including data on the role of statins in primary VTE prevention and secondary VTE prevention, related biological mechanisms, the risk of bleeding during their use, and their ability to reduce the risk of death.