bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centrifuge Modelling of Vertical and Horizontal Drains to Mitigate Earthquake-Induced Liquefaction
Authors: Giretti Daniela , Fioravante Vincenzo
Published: June 2023

This paper reports the results of dynamic centrifuge tests carried out on sandy models alternatively equipped with vertical or horizontal drains. The main aim of the experimentation was to investigate the use of horizontal drains to mitigate the liquefaction susceptibility of sandy deposits and to validate their applicability as a remediation technique applicable in urban and industrial areas to protect existing buildings from liquefaction. The assessment and validation were carried out by comparing the seismic behavior of models treated with horizontal drains with that of the untreated model and models equipped with vertical drains.
A Spatiotemporal Characterization of Water Resource Conditions and Demands as Influenced by the Hydrogeologic Framework of the Willcox Groundwater Basin, Southeastern Arizona, USA
Authors: Job Carl , Ochoa Carlos G. , Jarvis W. Todd , Kennedy Robert E.
Published: June 2023

In the Willcox Groundwater Basin (WGB), increasing rates of agricultural groundwater withdrawal have led to significant regional groundwater level decline, threatening the basin’s long-term water resource security. Updated characterization of the basin’s water resource conditions and agricultural water demand is critically important for informing groundwater resource management efforts. We developed the hydrogeologic framework of the WGB and linked groundwater level data with land cover classification data to provide a spatiotemporal assessment of water resource conditions and agricultural development in the WGB. A correlation analysis evaluated the degree of association between the basin’s mean annual depth-to-groundwater and agricultural land cover extent. Results of this study indicate that between 2008 and 2021, agricultural land cover in the WGB increased by 29%. The average rate of groundwater level change in the basin’s measured wells was calculated at −13.8 m between 2006 and 2021. We found a strong correlation between the basin’s mean annual measured depth-to-groundwater and the annual agricultural land cover extent, further reinforcing the understanding of agricultural water use in the basin as a principal driver of groundwater level decline. The methodological framework employed proved a simple and effective way to assess groundwater resources as influenced by geology and land use. The outcomes of this study provide critical information toward improved water resources management by providing an integrated understanding of local hydrogeology, groundwater level variability, and changes in agricultural land cover in arid inland basins such as those found in Arizona, USA.
Physical Modelling of High Stiffness Large Diameter Steel Tubular Pile Subjected to One-Way Horizontal Cyclic Loading
Authors: Shafi S M , Takemura Jiro , Kunasegaram Vijayakanthan
Published: June 2023

Two centrifuge model tests were conducted, each with three large diameter steel tubular piles installed under similar conditions, i.e., diameter (Φ) = 2 m; thickness (t) = 25 mm; loading height from the rock surface (HL) = 6.5 m, but different rock socketing depths (dr), i.e., 2 m, 3 m, and 4 m, respectively, in prototype scale. Two additional 1 g model tests were conducted using the same model pile and ground. The results indicate that the pile lateral resistance increased with an increase in the rock socketing depth to diameter ratio (dr/Φ) in both 1 g and 50 g models. However, the difference between the two gravitational acceleration levels became visible in the non-linear behaviour as the imposed displacement increased. Specifically, the 1 g models showed larger residual displacement and less stiffness in reloading than the 50 g models, particularly under cyclic loading. Two types of ultimate failure modes were observed, i.e., rock failure and pile structural failure with local buckling just above the rock surface. The latter failure mode was only attained in the pile with a dr/Φ ratio of 2 in a 50 g models among the test conditions adopted in the models, but not in the 1 g model.
Distinct Clinical Presentations and Outcomes of Hospitalized Adults with the SARS-CoV-2 Infection Occurring during the Omicron Variant Surge
Authors: Niu Jianli , Kim Myeongji , Jalal Ayesha T. , Goldberg Jessica E. , Acevedo Martinez Elsa M. , Suarez Moscoso Nathalie P. , Rubio-Gomez Heysu , Mayer Daniel , Visbal Alvaro , Sareli Candice , Eckardt Paula A. , Sareli Aharon E.
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 Omicron variant has imposed a tremendous burden on healthcare services. We characterized the types of the Omicron variant-associated hospitalizations and their associations with clinical outcomes. Consecutive adults hospitalized with COVID-19 during the Omicron variant surge period of 1–14 January 2022, were classified into one of three groups based on their clinical presentations on admission: Group 1—primary COVID-19; Group 2—extrapulmonary manifestations of COVID-19; and Group 3—incidental COVID-19. Of the 500 patients who were hospitalized, 51.4% fell into Group 1, 16.4% into Group 2, and 32.2% into Group 3. The patients in Groups 1 and 2 were older, with higher proportions of comorbidities than patients in Group 3. The Group 1 patients had the highest mortality rate (15.6%), followed by Group 2 (8.5%), and Group 3 (0.6%), with adjusted odds ratios (OR) of 22.65 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.75–239.46; p = 0.004) and 10.95 (95% CI, 1.02–117.28; p = 0.048), respectively, compared to Group 3. Those in Group 1 showed a greater utilization of intensive care services (15.9%), followed by Group 2 (10.9%), and Group 3 (2.5%), with adjusted ORs of 7.95 (95% CI, 2.52–25.08; p < 0.001) and 5.07 (95% CI, 1.34–19.15; p = 0.017), respectively, compared to Group 3. The patients in Groups 1 and 2 had longer hospitalization stays than the patients in Group 3 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Older age (≥65 years) was an independent factor associated with longer hospital stays (OR = 1.72, 95% CI, 1.07–2.77). These findings can help hospitals prioritize patient care and service planning for future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
The Co-Design/Co-Development and Evaluation of an Online Frailty Check Application for Older Adults: Participatory Action Research with Older Adults
Authors: Son Bo-Kyung , Miura Takahiro , Yabu Ken-ichiro , Sumikawa Yuka , Kim Dongyool , Lyu Weida , Yang Yingxue , Tanaka Moeko , Tanaka Tomoki , Yoshizawa Yasuyo , Iijima Katsuya
Published: June 2023

Frailty is an age-related condition characterized by a decline in physical capacity with an increased vulnerability to stressors. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was considerable progression in frailty in older adults. Therefore, an online frailty check (FC) is required for continuous screening, especially acceptable to older adults. We aimed to co-design/co-develop an online FC application with FC supporters who were facilitators in a pre-existing onsite FC program in the community. It consisted of a self-assessment of sarcopenia and an 11-item questionnaire assessing dietary, physical, and social behaviors. Opinions obtained from FC supporters (median 74.0 years) were categorized and implemented. The usability was assessed using the system usability scale (SUS). For both FC supporters and participants (n = 43), the mean score was 70.2 ± 10.3 points, which implied a “marginally high” acceptability and a “good” adjective range. Multiple regression analysis showed that the SUS score was significantly correlated with onsite–online reliability, even after adjusting for age, sex, education level, and ICT proficiency (b = 0.400, 95% CI: 0.243–1.951, p = 0.013). We also validated the online FC score, which showed a significant association between onsite and online FC scores (R = 0.670, p = 0.001). In conclusion, the online FC application is an acceptable and reliable tool to check frailty for community-dwelling older adults.
Neuroticism and Stress in Older Adults: The Buffering Role of Self-Esteem
Authors: Amestoy Maya E. , D’Amico Danielle , Fiocco Alexandra J.
Published: June 2023

Background: Chronic stress is associated with accelerated aging and poor health outcomes in older adults. According to the Transactional Model of Stress (TMS), distress is experienced when one perceives the stressor, or threat, to outweigh the ability to cope. The experience of distress is correlated with trait neuroticism, which is associated with greater perceptions of stress and stress reactivity, as well as a tendency to engage in maladaptive coping strategies. However, as individual personality traits do not act in isolation, this study aimed to investigate the moderating role of self-esteem in the relationship between neuroticism and distress using a TMS framework. Methods: A total of 201 healthy older adults (Mage = 68.65 years) completed questionnaires measuring self-esteem, neuroticism, perceived stress, and positive coping. Results: Greater neuroticism was significantly associated with less positive coping at low (b = −0.02, p < 0.001) and mean self-esteem levels (b = −0.01, p < 0.001), but not at high self-esteem levels (b = −0.01, p = 0.06). No moderating effect was found for perceived stress or overall distress. Conclusion: The results support the association between trait neuroticism and indices of stress and suggest a potential buffering effect of self-esteem in moderating the negative association between neuroticism and positive coping.
RNA Overwriting of Cellular mRNA by Cas13b-Directed RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Ogasawara Shinzi , Ebashi Sae
Published: June 2023

Dysregulation of mRNA processing results in diseases such as cancer. Although RNA editing technologies attract attention as gene therapy for repairing aberrant mRNA, substantial sequence defects arising from mis-splicing cannot be corrected by existing techniques using adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) due to the limitation of adenosine-to-inosine point conversion. Here, we report an RNA editing technology called “RNA overwriting” that overwrites the sequence downstream of a designated site on the target RNA by utilizing the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of the influenza A virus. To enable RNA overwriting within living cells, we developed a modified RdRp by introducing H357A and E361A mutations in the polymerase basic 2 of RdRp and fusing the C-terminus with catalytically inactive Cas13b (dCas13b). The modified RdRp knocked down 46% of the target mRNA and further overwrote 21% of the mRNA. RNA overwriting is a versatile editing technique that can perform various modifications, including addition, deletion, and mutation introduction, and thus allow for repair of the aberrant mRNA produced by dysregulation of mRNA processing, such as mis-splicing.
Gold-Based Nanostructures for Antibacterial Application
Authors: Mutalik Chinmaya , Saukani Muhammad , Khafid Muhamad , Krisnawati Dyah Ika , Widodo  , Darmayanti Rofik , Puspitasari Betristasia , Cheng Tsai-Mu , Kuo Tsung-Rong
Published: June 2023

Bacterial infections have become a fatal threat because of the abuse of antibiotics in the world. Various gold (Au)-based nanostructures have been extensively explored as antibacterial agents to combat bacterial infections based on their remarkable chemical and physical characteristics. Many Au-based nanostructures have been designed and their antibacterial activities and mechanisms have been further examined and demonstrated. In this review, we collected and summarized current developments of antibacterial agents of Au-based nanostructures, including Au nanoparticles (AuNPs), Au nanoclusters (AuNCs), Au nanorods (AuNRs), Au nanobipyramids (AuNBPs), and Au nanostars (AuNSs) according to their shapes, sizes, and surface modifications. The rational designs and antibacterial mechanisms of these Au-based nanostructures are further discussed. With the developments of Au-based nanostructures as novel antibacterial agents, we also provide perspectives, challenges, and opportunities for future practical clinical applications.
Empagliflozin Attenuates Vascular Calcification in Mice with Chronic Kidney Disease by Regulating the NFR2/HO-1 Anti-Inflammatory Pathway through AMPK Activation
Authors: Lu Chia-Wen , Lee Chung-Jen , Hsieh Yi-Jen , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: June 2023

Vascular calcification (VC) is associated with increased cardiovascular risks in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, can improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes. We assessed the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) in inorganic phosphate-induced VC in mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to investigate the mechanisms underlying empagliflozin’s therapeutic effects. We evaluated biochemical parameters, mean artery pressure (MAP), pulse wave velocity (PWV), transcutaneous glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and histology in an in vivo mouse model with VC induced by an oral high-phosphorus diet following a 5/6 nephrectomy in ApoE−/− mice. Compared to the control group, empagliflozin-treated mice showed significant reductions in blood glucose, MAP, PWV, and calcification, as well as increased calcium and GFR levels. Empagliflozin inhibited osteogenic trans-differentiation by decreasing inflammatory cytokine expression and increasing AMPK, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels. Empagliflozin mitigates high phosphate-induced calcification in mouse VSMCs through the Nrf2/HO-1 anti-inflammatory pathway by activating AMPK. Animal experiments suggested that empagliflozin reduces VC in CKD ApoE−/− mice on a high-phosphate diet.
Omics Analyses of Stromal Cells from ACM Patients Reveal Alterations in Chromatin Organization and Mitochondrial Homeostasis
Authors: Lippi Melania , Maione Angela Serena , Chiesa Mattia , Perrucci Gianluca Lorenzo , Iengo Lara , Sattin Tommaso , Cencioni Chiara , Savoia Matteo , Zeiher Andreas M. , Tundo Fabrizio , Tondo Claudio , Pompilio Giulio , Sommariva Elena
Published: June 2023

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic disorder characterized by ventricular arrhythmias, contractile dysfunctions and fibro-adipose replacement of myocardium. Cardiac mesenchymal stromal cells (CMSCs) participate in disease pathogenesis by differentiating towards adipocytes and myofibroblasts. Some altered pathways in ACM are known, but many are yet to be discovered. We aimed to enrich the understanding of ACM pathogenesis by comparing epigenetic and gene expression profiles of ACM-CMSCs with healthy control (HC)-CMSCs. Methylome analysis identified 74 differentially methylated nucleotides, most of them located on the mitochondrial genome. Transcriptome analysis revealed 327 genes that were more expressed and 202 genes that were less expressed in ACM- vs. HC-CMSCs. Among these, genes implicated in mitochondrial respiration and in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition were more expressed, and cell cycle genes were less expressed in ACM- vs. HC-CMSCs. Through enrichment and gene network analyses, we identified differentially regulated pathways, some of which never associated with ACM, including mitochondrial functioning and chromatin organization, both in line with methylome results. Functional validations confirmed that ACM-CMSCs exhibited higher amounts of active mitochondria and ROS production, a lower proliferation rate and a more pronounced epicardial-to-mesenchymal transition compared to the controls. In conclusion, ACM-CMSC-omics revealed some additional altered molecular pathways, relevant in disease pathogenesis, which may constitute novel targets for specific therapies.
A Comparative Proteomic Analysis to Explore the Influencing Factors on Endometritis Using LC-MS/MS
Authors: Jiang Xingcan , Li Ziyuan , Chang Xiyv , Lian Zhengjie , Wang Aihua , Lin Pengfei , Chen Huatao , Zhou Dong , Tang Keqiong , Jin Yaping
Published: June 2023

The inflammatory system activated by uterine infection is associated with decreased fertility. Diseases can be detected in advance by identifying biomarkers of several uterine diseases. Escherichia coli is one of the most frequent bacteria that is involved in pathogenic processes in dairy goats. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of endotoxin on protein expression in goat endometrial epithelial cells. In this study, the LC–MS/MS approach was employed to investigate the proteome profile of goat endometrial epithelial cells. A total of 1180 proteins were identified in the goat Endometrial Epithelial Cells and LPS-treated goat Endometrial Epithelial Cell groups, of which, 313 differentially expressed proteins were accurately screened. The proteomic results were independently verified by WB, TEM and IF techniques, and the same conclusion was obtained. To conclude, this model is suitable for the further study of infertility caused by endometrial damage caused by endotoxin. These findings may provide useful information for the prevention and treatment of endometritis.
CD276 as a Candidate Target for Immunotherapy in Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Hińcza-Nowak Kinga , Kowalik Artur , Walczyk Agnieszka , Pałyga Iwona , Gąsior-Perczak Danuta , Płusa Agnieszka , Kopczyński Janusz , Chrapek Magdalena , Góźdź Stanisław , Kowalska Aldona
Published: June 2023

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare malignancy, and the treatment of metastatic MTC is challenging. In previous work, immune profiling (RNA-Seq) of MTC identified CD276 as a potential target for immunotherapy. CD276 expression was 3-fold higher in MTC cells than in normal tissues. Paraffin blocks from patients with MTC were analyzed by immunohistochemistry to confirm the results of RNA-Seq. Serial sections were incubated with anti-CD276 antibody, and scored according to staining intensity and the percentage of immunoreactive cells. The results showed that CD276 expression was higher in MTC tissues than in controls. A lower percentage of immunoreactive cells correlated with the absence of lateral node metastasis, lower levels of calcitonin after surgery, no additional treatments, and remission. There were statistically significant associations of intensity of immunostaining and percentage of CD276 immunoreactive cells with clinical factors and the course of the disease. These results suggest that targeting this immune checkpoint molecule CD276 could be a promising strategy for the treatment of MTC.
Molecular Genetics Enhances Plant Breeding
Authors: Cortés Andrés J. , Du Hai
Published: June 2023

Human-driven plant selection, a practice as ancient as agriculture itself, has laid the foundations of plant breeding and contemporary farming [...]
REST Targets JAK–STAT and HIF-1 Signaling Pathways in Human Down Syndrome Brain and Neural Cells
Authors: Huang Tan , Fakurazi Sharida , Cheah Pike-See , Ling King-Hwa
Published: June 2023

Down syndrome (DS) is the most frequently diagnosed chromosomal disorder of chromosome 21 (HSA21) aneuploidy, characterized by intellectual disability and reduced lifespan. The transcription repressor, Repressor Element-1 Silencing Transcription factor (REST), which acts as an epigenetic regulator, is a crucial regulator of neuronal and glial gene expression. In this study, we identified and investigated the role of REST-target genes in human brain tissues, cerebral organoids, and neural cells in Down syndrome. Gene expression datasets generated from healthy controls and DS samples of human brain tissues, cerebral organoids, NPC, neurons, and astrocytes were retrieved from the Gene Ontology (GEO) and Sequence Read Archive (SRA) databases. Differential expression analysis was performed on all datasets to produce differential expression genes (DEGs) between DS and control groups. REST-targeted DEGs were subjected to functional ontologies, pathways, and network analyses. We found that REST-targeted DEGs in DS were enriched for the JAK–STAT and HIF-1 signaling pathways across multiple distinct brain regions, ages, and neural cell types. We also identified REST-targeted DEGs involved in nervous system development, cell differentiation, fatty acid metabolism and inflammation in the DS brain. Based on the findings, we propose REST as the critical regulator and a promising therapeutic target to modulate homeostatic gene expression in the DS brain.
Creation of a Prognostic Model Using Cuproptosis-Associated Long Noncoding RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Lihong , Jia Xiao , Fu Yueyue , Tian Jiao , Liu Yijin , Lin Jianping
Published: June 2023

Cuproptosis is an unusual form of cell death caused by copper accumulation in mitochondria. Cuproptosis is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been shown to be effective prognostic biomarkers, yet the link between lncRNAs and cuproptosis remains unclear. We aimed to build a prognostic model of lncRNA risk and explore potential biomarkers of cuproptosis in HCC. Pearson correlations were used to derive lncRNAs co-expressed in cuproptosis. The model was constructed using Cox, Lasso, and multivariate Cox regressions. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, principal components analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve, and nomogram analyses were carried out for validation. Seven lncRNAs were identified as prognostic factors. A risk model was an independent prognostic predictor. Among these seven lncRNAs, prostate cancer associated transcript 6 (PCAT6) is highly expressed in different types of cancer, activating Wnt, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and other pathways; therefore, we performed further functional validation of PCAT6 in HCC. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction results showed that PCAT6 was aberrantly highly expressed in HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B) compared to LO2 (normal hepatocytes). When its expression was knocked down, cells proliferated and migrated less. PCAT6 might be a potential biomarker for predicting prognosis in HCC.
Longitudinal Clinical Features of Post-COVID-19 Patients—Symptoms, Fatigue and Physical Function at 3- and 6-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Steinmetz Anke , Gross Stefan , Lehnert Kristin , Lücker Petra , Friedrich Nele , Nauck Matthias , Bahlmann Susanne , Fielitz Jens , Dörr Marcus
Published: June 2023

Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) has been described as ‘the pandemic after the pandemic’ with more than 65 million people worldwide being affected. The enormous range of symptoms makes both diagnosis complex and treatment difficult. In a post-COVID rehabilitation outpatient clinic, 184 patients, mostly non-hospitalized, received a comprehensive, interdisciplinary diagnostic assessment with fixed follow-up appointments. At baseline, three in four patients reported more than 10 symptoms, the most frequent symptoms were fatigue (84.9%), decreased physical capacity (83.0%), tiredness (81.1%), poor concentration (73.6%), sleeping problems (66.7%) and shortness of breath (67.3%). Abnormalities were found in the mean values of scores for fatigue (FAS = 34.3), cognition (MoCA = 25.5), psychological alterations (anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder), limitation of lung function (CAT) and severity scores for PCS (PCFS, MCRS). Clinical abnormalities were found in elevated values of heart rate, breathing rate at rest, blood pressure and NT-proBNP levels. As the frequency of the described symptoms decreases only slowly but most often significantly over the course, it is important to monitor the patients over a longer period of time. Many of them suffer from an immense symptom burden, often without pre-existing clinical correlates. Our results show a clear association with objectifiable assessments and tests as well as pronounced symptoms.
Scar Pregnancy: A Rare, but Challenging, Obstetric Condition
Authors: Granese Roberta , Gulino Ferdinando Antonio , Incognito Giosuè Giordano , Martinelli Canio , Cianci Stefano , Ercoli Alfredo
Published: June 2023

Scar pregnancy is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when an embryo implants and grows within a previous cesarean section scar or other uterine scars [...]
Predictors of Mortality in Head-Preserving Treatment for Dislocated Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of 522 Cases with a Minimum Follow-Up of 5 Years
Authors: Klute Lisa , Henssler Leopold , Pfeifer Christian , Berner Arne , Schneider Teresa , Kobeck Miriam , Alt Volker , Kerschbaum Maximilian
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) are among the most common fractures in elderly patients, but there is still inadequate knowledge about mortality risk factors after such injuries. In order to provide the best possible therapy, individual risk factors have to be considered and evaluated thoroughly. There is still controversy regarding treatment decisions for proximal humerus fractures, particularly for the elderly. Methods: In this study, patient data from 522 patients with proximal humerus fractures were obtained from 2004 to 2014 at a Level 1 trauma centre. After a minimum follow-up of 5 years, the mortality rate was assessed, and independent risk factors were evaluated. Results: A total of 383 patients (out of 522) were included in this study. For our patient collective, the mean follow-up was at 10.5 ± 3.2 years. The overall mortality rate was 43.8% in our respondent group and was not significantly impacted by concomitant injuries. The binary logistic regression model showed an increased risk for mortality by 10% per life year, a 3.9 times higher mortality risk for men and a 3.4 times higher risk for conservative treatment. The most powerful predictor was a Charlson Comorbidity Index of more than 2, with a 20 times higher mortality risk. Conclusions: Outstanding independent predictors of death in our patient collective were serious comorbidities, male patients, and conservative treatment. This patient-related information should influence the process of decision making for the individual treatment of patients with PHFs.
COVID-19 in Pediatric Intensive Care Units in Poland, PAPITCO-19 Study (Polish Analysis of PICU Trends during COVID-19)
Authors: Damps Maria , Byrska-Maciejasz Elżbieta , Kowalska Małgorzata , Rosada-Kurasińska Jowita , Rybojad Beata , Sordyl Joanna , Zielińska Marzena , Bartkowska-Śniatkowska Alicja ,   on behalf of the PAPITCO-19 Group
Published: June 2023

Background: Children suffering from COVID-19 constitute about 10% of the entire population infected with the virus. In most of them, we observe asymptomatic or mild courses; however, about 1% of affected children require a stay in a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) due to the course of the disease becoming severely life-threatening. The risk of respiratory failure, as with adults, is associated with the coexistence of concomitant diseases. The aim of our study was to analyse patients admitted to PICUs due to the severe course of their SARS-CoV-2 infection. We studied epidemiological and laboratory parameters, as well as the endpoint (survival or death). Methods: A retrospective multi-centre study, the analysis covered all children with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 virus infection who were admitted to PICUs in the period from November 2020 to August 2021. We studied epidemiological and laboratory parameters, as well as the endpoint (survival or death). Results: The study analysed 45 patients (0.075% of all children hospitalised in Poland due to COVID-19 at that time). Mortality calculated in the entire study group was 40% (n = 18). Statistically significant differences between the compared groups (survived and died) concerned the parameters of the respiratory system. Lung Injury Score and the Paediatric Sequential Organ Failure Assessment were used. A significant correlation between disease severity and the patient’s prognosis was shown by the liver function parameter AST (p = 0.028). During the analysis of patients requiring mechanical ventilation and assuming survival as the primary outcome, a significantly higher oxygen index on the first day of hospitalisation, lower pSOFA scores and lower AST levels (p: 0.007; 0.043; 0.020; 0.005; 0.039, respectively) were found. Conclusions: As with adults, children with comorbidities are most frequently at risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Increasing symptoms of respiratory failure, the need for mechanical ventilation and persistently high values of aspartate aminotransferase are indicators of poor prognosis.
Neck Pain Disability on Headache Impact and the Association between Sleep Disturbance and Neck Pain in Migraine
Authors: Im Hee-Jin , Hong Yoo-Ha , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: June 2023

Neck pain (NP) is a prevalent symptom among migraine patients, but its disability on headache impact and the contributing factors for comorbid NP are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate NP disability on the impact of headaches among migraineurs and factors linked to comorbid NP, including sleep-related variables. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a university hospital headache center, for headache patients at their first visits. Included in the study were 295 patients with migraines (217 females; 39.0  ±  10.8 years; 101 chronic migraine). Information on NP, history of physician-diagnosed cervical spine or disc disorders, detailed parameters of headache, and sleep and mood variables were collected. Logistic analysis of the severe impact of headache and contributing factors for NP were performed. NP was present in 153 participants (51.9%) with migraine, with high NP disability observed in 28 patients, and 125 patients had low NP disability. In multivariable analysis, NP disability, medication days per month, severe disability of migraine, and excessive daytime sleepiness were significant predictors for severe impact of headache. Thirty-seven patients with physician-diagnosed cervical spine or disc disorders were excluded from the NP analysis. Higher monthly headache days, female gender, and a high likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea were positively correlated with the presence of NP among migraineurs in multivariable analysis. Overall, the study highlights the potential impact of sleep-related variables and monthly headache days on NP in these patients. The high disability of NP was also associated with severe impact of headache.
In Situ Radioactivity Maps and Trace Metal Concentrations in Beach Sands of a Mining Coastal Area at North Aegean, Greece
Authors: Tsabaris Christos , Patiris Dionisis L. , Adams Rosalinda , Castillo Julian , Henriquez Maria F. , Hurtado Caroline , Munoz Lesley , Kalpaxis Leonidas , Verri Mariana , Alexakis Stylianos , Pappa Filothei K. , Lampousis Angelos
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the environmental effects of both active and legacy mining activity have motivated many research groups worldwide through the use of a variety of methods that have been conducted among diverse environments. In this study, we measured radionuclide concentrations at two coastline locations of the Northern Aegean Sea: Stratoni and Ierissos. We deployed KATERINA II, an in situ gamma ray spectrometer. Our results indicate that the activity concentration for 238U progenies (214Bi), 232Th progenies (208Tl and 228Ac) and 40K vary by up to (33 ± 4) Bq kg−1, (19 ± 3) Bq kg−1, and (420 ± 30) Bq kg−1, respectively. The activity concentration of the 137Cs in Stratoni and Ierissos beach sands were (8.1 ± 2.2) and (3.9 ± 1.2) Bq kg−1, respectively. Lab-based measurements were also collected prior to the in situ data collection for the determination of radionuclide and metal concentrations. The lab-based data were found to be (800 ± 40) μg g−1 and (12 ± 1) μg g−1, for As, (1200 ± 60) μg g−1 and (33.3 ± 0.3) μg g−1 for Pb, (100 ± 6) μg g−1 and (6.0± 0.3) μg g−1 for Cu and (2000 ± 60) μg g−1 and (8.0 ± 0.4) μg g−1 for Zn, respectively. We used the R language and environment for statistical computing to produce radiological maps of the subject beach sands. We used the Enrichment Factor (EF) to estimate assessment indices for the target area and compared them to internationally recommended values. The in situ maps will be discussed since the beach area of the load-out pier area of Stratoni was undergoing the first phase of active remediation. We conclude that the temporal aspect of this dataset can be of significant reference value against future comparative studies after the remediation of the Stratoni beach with potentially denser spatial and temporal data coverage.
Strength Assessment of Cement-Based Materials under Marine Conditions Subjected to Sulfate and Chloride Attack Based on Ion Distributions
Authors: Li Shagang , Yu Xiaotong , Zhou Wentao , Liao Yingdi , Chen Da
Published: June 2023

Sulfate and chloride in the marine environment threaten the lifespan of concrete structures. Predicting the strength of concrete under different degrees of ion erosion is essential for marine structure design and maintenance. In this paper, a novel method was developed to predict the compressive strength evolution due to sulfate and chloride attack. The degradation and ion diffusion behavior of cement-based materials was investigated by analyzing the visual appearance, compressive strength, porosity, and ion distributions of mortar soaked in sulfate and chloride solutions with different concentrations. The damage degree was observed to increase with sulfate concentration and decrease with chloride concentration. Additionally, it was discovered that chloride and sulfate ions inhibited the diffusion of each other, and a higher concentration resulted in a more substantial inhibition effect. The total effective sulfate and chloride intrusions were proposed to describe the erosion degree of mortar based on the evaluation of the ion distributions with Fick’s second law. A compressive strength assessment method was established based on the analysis of the correlation between the strength contribution of sulfate reaction and the total effective chloride and sulfate intrusions. This method exhibits the potential for estimating the concrete strength of actual marine structures damaged by sulfate and chloride with accelerated laboratory tests.
Assessment of Spatial–Temporal Variations of Soil Erosion in Hulunbuir Plateau from 2000 to 2050
Authors: Yuan Jianglong , Liu Xiaohuang , Li Hongyu , Wang Ran , Luo Xinping , Xing Liyuan , Wang Chao , Zhao Honghui
Published: June 2023

The study area was the Hulunbuir Plateau in northeastern China, based on a natural resource element observation study. The assessment of the spatial and temporal variation of soil erosion is crucial for implementing environmental management in the fragile ecosystem of the Hulunbuir Plateau. The study provides an interesting basis for soil erosion control on the Hulunbuir Plateau and other areas with similar climatic conditions, with the aim of providing sound data to support environmental protection policies in the study area. In this study, the spatial and temporal variations in soil erosion in the region from 2000 to 2020 were quantitatively assessed using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation. Furthermore, the patch-generating land use simulation model predicted future soil erosion. Land use prediction data were examined using Kappa coefficients. The prediction of future land use types using CMIP6 data and natural social data in the PLUS model were used to predict soil erosion for different future scenarios. The results showed that the soil erosion rate on the Hulunbuir Plateau showed a significant increasing trend in time from 2000 to 2020. Spatially, soil erosion increases gradually from the west to the east. Soil erosion occurs mainly on grasslands, while cultivated lands show a significant increasing trend by 2020. Slope erosion occurs mainly in areas between 15° and 35°. From 2020 to 2050, soil erosion will increase significantly due to increased precipitation. The soil erosion in SSP2–4.5 is better than the other scenarios.
The Human Right to a Fair Trial in Competition Law Enforcement Procedures: A Rising Issue in Indonesian Experiences
Authors: Anisah Siti , Hadi Sahid
Published: June 2023

The Indonesian Competition Supervisory Commission (ICSC) has the authority to investigate, prosecute, adjudicate, decide, and impose sanctions on business actors for violating Indonesian competition law. It also has the authority to establish procedural laws for the competition law enforcement procedures within its institution. This single role raises various issues in the current context, including the right to a fair trial and checks and balances. This article seeks to define the position of human rights, particularly the right to a fair trial, in competition law enforcement procedures. The result is that competition law enforcement procedures are subordinate to human rights, so they must be exercised in compliance with human rights standards, particularly the right to a fair trial. Based on the experience in Indonesia, this study finds that the ICSC’s single role is incompatible with human rights commitments in fair competition law enforcement procedures. As an alternative solution, this article encourages a modification and adjustment based on human rights commitments and checks and balances mechanism by limiting one of the ICSC’s authorities and broadening the interference of the Supreme Court in enforcing Indonesian competition law at the ICSC level.
Reviewing Atrial Fibrillation Pathophysiology from a Network Medicine Perspective: The Relevance of Structural Remodeling, Inflammation, and the Immune System
Authors: Martins Ivis Levy Fernandes , Almeida Flávia Valéria dos Santos , Souza Karyne Pollo de , Brito Fernanda Carla Ferreira de , Rodrigues Gabriel Dias , Scaramello Christianne Bretas Vieira
Published: June 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of sustained arrhythmia. The numerous gaps concerning the knowledge of its mechanism make improving clinical management difficult. As omics technologies allow more comprehensive insight into biology and disease at a molecular level, bioinformatics encompasses valuable tools for studying systems biology, as well as combining and modeling multi-omics data and networks. Network medicine is a subarea of network biology where disease traits are considered perturbations within the interactome. With this approach, potential disease drivers can be revealed, and the effect of drugs, novel or repurposed, used alone or in combination, may be studied. Thus, this work aims to review AF pathology from a network medicine perspective, helping researchers to comprehend the disease more deeply. Essential concepts involved in network medicine are highlighted, and specific research applying network medicine to study AF is discussed. Additionally, data integration through literature mining and bioinformatics tools, with network building, is exemplified. Together, all of the data show the substantial role of structural remodeling, the immune system, and inflammation in this disease etiology. Despite this, there are still gaps to be filled about AF.
The Utility of Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Uterine Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Avesani Giacomo , Perazzolo Alessio , Amerighi Andrea , Celli Veronica , Panico Camilla , Sala Evis , Gui Benedetta
Published: June 2023

Correct staging of cervical cancer is essential to establish the best therapeutic procedure and prognosis for the patient. MRI is the best imaging modality for local staging and follow-up. According to the latest ESUR guidelines, T2WI and DWI-MR sequences are fundamental in these settings, and CE-MRI remains optional. This systematic review, according to the PRISMA 2020 checklist, aims to give an overview of the literature regarding the use of contrast in MRI in cervical cancer and provide more specific indications of when it may be helpful. Systematic searches on PubMed and Web Of Science (WOS) were performed, and 97 papers were included; 1 paper was added considering the references of included articles. From our literature review, it emerged that many papers about the use of contrast in cervical cancer are dated, especially about staging and detection of tumor recurrence. We did not find strong evidence suggesting that CE-MRI is helpful in any clinical setting for cervical cancer staging and detection of tumor recurrence. There is growing evidence that perfusion parameters and perfusion-derived radiomics models might have a role as prognostic and predictive biomarkers, but the lack of standardization and validation limits their use in a research setting.
Effect of Moisture Condition of Structural Lightweight Concretes on Specified Values of Static and Dynamic Modulus of Elasticity
Authors: Domagała Lucyna , Sieja Kinga
Published: June 2023

The dynamic modulus of elasticity (Ed), specified by ultrasonic pulse velocity measurements, is often used, especially for concrete built into construction, to estimate the static modulus of elasticity (Ec,s). However, the most commonly used Equations for such estimations do not take into account the influence of concrete moisture. The aim of this paper was to establish this influence for two series of structural lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) varying in their strength (40.2 and 54.3 MPa) and density (1690 and 1780 kg/m3). The effect of LWAC moisture content turned out to be much more pronounced in the case of dynamic modulus measurements than for static ones. The achieved results indicate that the moisture content of the concrete should be taken into consideration in modulus measurements as well as in Equations estimating Ec,s on the basis of Ed specified by the ultrasonic pulse velocity method. The static modulus of LWACs was lower on average by 11 and 24% in relation to dynamic modulus, respectively when measured in air-dried and water-saturated conditions. The influence of LWAC moisture content on the relationship between specified static and dynamic moduli was not affected by the type of tested lightweight concrete.
Abrasive Wear Resistance of Ultrafine Ausferritic Ductile Iron Intended for the Manufacture of Gears for Mining Machinery
Authors: Myszka Dawid , Wieczorek Andrzej N. , Skołek Emilia , Borowski Tomasz , Kotwica Krzysztof , Kalita Marek , Kruk Radosław , Nuckowski Paweł M.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to experimentally determine the abrasion wear properties of ausferritic ductile iron austempered at 250 °C in order to obtain cast iron of class EN-GJS-1400-1. It has been found that such a cast iron grade makes it possible to create structures for material conveyors used for short-distance transport purposes, required to perform in terms of abrasion resistance under extreme conditions. The wear tests addressed in the paper were conducted at a ring-on-ring type of test rig. The test samples were examined under the conditions of slide mating, where the main destructive process was surface microcutting via loose corundum grains. The mass loss of the examined samples was measured as a parameter characteristic of the wear. The volume loss values thus obtained were plotted as a function of initial hardness. Based on these results, it has been found that prolonged heat treatment (of more than 6 h) causes only an insignificant increase in the resistance to abrasive wear.
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of SiC/Al-40Si Composites Fabricated by High Pressure Solidification
Authors: Zhang Rong , Zou Chunming , Wei Zunjie , Wang Hongwei
Published: June 2023

The microstructure and mechanical properties of SiC/Al-40Si composites prepared under high pressure were studied. As the pressure increases from 1 atm to 3 GPa, the primary Si phase in the Al-40Si alloy is refined. With increasing pressure, the composition of the eutectic point increases, the solute diffusion coefficient decreases exponentially, and the concentration of Si solute at the front of the solid–liquid interface of the primary Si is low, which contributes to the refining of the primary Si and inhibiting its faceted growth. The bending strength of SiC/Al-40Si composite prepared under 3 GPa was 334 MPa, which was 66% higher compared to the Al-40Si alloy prepared under the same pressure.
Ultra-Precision Manufacturing Technology for Difficult-to-Machine Materials
Authors: Liu Qi , Chen Mingjun , Cheng Jian , Luo Xichun
Published: June 2023

Ultra-precision manufacturing requires superior components with an impeccable surface finish and accuracy [...]
Improvement of Crashworthiness Indicators with a New Idea in the Design of the Multi-Cell Hexagonal Tube under Dynamic Axial Load
Authors: Sistani Reza , Mousavi Mashhadi Mahmoud , Mohammadi Younes
Published: June 2023

Multi-cell hexagonal tubes have been applied in a wide range of industries. The present study investigates strengthening a single regular hexagonal tube under a dynamic axial load with three different geometrical shapes. The results are then compared with crashworthiness indicators from the finite element code LS-DYNA using the simple additive weighting method, and the appropriate section of a multi-cell hexagonal tube under dynamic axial load is selected. An idea is further presented by assuming the thicknesses variable for certain parts of the selected section to improve crashworthiness criteria. Combinations with different variable thicknesses in defined thickness intervals are made into a lattice. Numerical tests are performed based on the lattice nodes using LS-DYNA. The regression models for crashworthiness indicators are created using the Minitab software and optimized to find optimum combinations of thicknesses. The optimization results are tested again by LS-DYNA, and the appropriate answers are determined. The comparison of the results of this method with those of optimization with constant thicknesses demonstrates improvement in the crashworthiness indicators.
Evaluation of the Effects of Atorvastatin and N-Acetyl Cysteine on Platelet Counts in Patients with Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia: An Exploratory Clinical Trial
Authors: Cervantes-Pérez Lorena A , Cervantes-Guevara Gabino , Cervantes-Pérez Enrique , Cervantes-Cardona Guillermo Alonso , Nápoles-Echauri Adriana , González-Ojeda Alejandro , Fuentes-Orozco Clotilde , Cervantes-Pérez Gabino , Reyes-Torres Carlos A , Hernández-Mora Francisco Javier , Ron-Magaña Ana Lucia , Vázquez-Beltrán Janet Cristina , Hernández-Rivas María Isabel , Ramírez-Ochoa Sol
Published: June 2023

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the combination of atorvastatin and N-acetyl cysteine in increasing platelet counts in patients with immune thrombocytopenia who were resistant to steroid therapy or had a relapse after treatment. Material and Methods: The patients included in this study received oral treatment of atorvastatin at a dose of 40 mg daily and N-acetyl cysteine at a dose of 400 mg every 8 h. The desired treatment duration was 12 months, but we included patients who completed at least 1 month of treatment in the analysis. The platelet counts were measured prior to the administration of the study treatment and in the first, third, sixth, and twelfth months of treatment (if available). A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: We included 15 patients who met our inclusion criteria. For the total treatment duration, the global response was 60% (nine patients); eight patients (53.3%) had a complete response and one patient (6.7%) had a partial response. Six patients (40%) were considered as having undergone treatment failure. Of the responder group, five patients maintained a complete response after treatment (55.5%), three patients maintained a partial response (33.3%), and one patient (11.1%) lost their response to the treatment. All of the patients in the responder group had significant increases in their platelet counts after treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides evidence of a possible treatment option for patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia. However, further studies are needed.