bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary Immunosuppression Management and 1‐Year Outcomes in Dual Organ Heart Transplantation
Authors: Huang Xinyi , Salerno David , Kovac Danielle , Scheffert Jenna , Hedvat Jessica , Carver Bayleigh , Choe Jason , Shertel Tara , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Colombo Paolo C. , Jennings Douglas L.
Published: August 2024

Background

There have been limited reports on immunosuppression strategies and outcomes in dual organ heart transplant populations, primarily from before the 2018 United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) heart allocation policy change. Recent data suggested that outcomes with heart–lung and heart–liver transplants remained comparable in the new allocation era, yet heart–kidney recipients have worse 1‐year survival.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study evaluated adult heart–kidney, heart–liver, and heart–lung transplant recipients from September 2019 to May 2023. Immunosuppression regimen, infectious complications, and graft outcomes were collected for 12 months.

Results

A total of 36 patients (kidney n = 20, liver n = 9, and lung n = 7) were included in this study. Basiliximab was the most commonly employed induction strategy across the organ groups (12/20 in kidney, 4/9 in liver, and 7/7 in lung). All patients were on triple immunosuppression at 12 months posttransplant with prednisone wean achieved in one heart–liver recipient. Infection complications were frequently reported (95% kidney, 75% liver, 100% lung group). One patient went back to dialysis due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. One chronic lung allograft dysfunction was reported, but no other severe biopsy‐proven rejection or retransplant was reported. The 1‐year survival was 85% (17/20) in heart–kidney, 78% (7/9) in heart–liver, and 86% (6/7) in heart–lung recipients.

Conclusion

This study summarized real‐world immunosuppression strategies and outcomes in dual organ heart transplant recipients.
Tuscany Normothermic Regional Perfusion Mobile Teams for Controlled Donation After Circulatory Death
Authors: Lazzeri Chiara , Manuela Bonizzoli , Bagatti Sara , Antonelli Stefano , Pane Paolo Lo , Ghinolfi Davide , Peris Adriano
Published: August 2024

Introduction

To facilitate the implementation of controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) programs even in hospitals not equipped with a local extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) team, some countries have launched a local cDCD network with an ECMO mobile team for normothermic regional perfusion (NRP). In the Tuscany region, in 2021, the Regional Transplant Authority launched a cDCD program to make the cDCD pathway feasible even in peripheral hospitals with NRP mobile teams, which were “converted” existing ECMO mobile teams, composed of highly skilled and experienced personnel.

Methods

We describe the Tuscany cDCD program, (2021–2023), for cDCD from peripheral hospitals with NRP mobile teams.

Results

Twenty‐six cDCDs (26/40, 65%) came from peripheral hospitals. Following the launch of the cDCD program, cDCDs from peripheral hospitals increased, from 33% (2021) to 75% (2022 and 2023) of the overall cDCDs. The mean age was 63 years, with older donors (>75 years) in half the cases. The median warm ischemia time was 45 min (20 min are required by the Italian law for death certification), ranging from 35 to 59 min. Among the 20 livers retrieved and 18 kidneys retrieved, 16 livers, and 11 kidneys (single kidney transplantation) were transplanted, after ex vivo reperfusion, respectively.

Conclusions

The use of NRP mobile teams proved to be feasible and safe in the management of cDCD in peripheral hospitals. No complications were reported with NRP despite the advanced age of most cDCDs.
A comparison of the safety and effectiveness of insulin aspart with other bolus insulins in women with pre‐existing Type 1 diabetes during pregnancy: A post hoc analysis of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Alibegovic Amra Ciric , Anil Gayathri , Dunne Fidelma , Halasa Tariq , Ivanišević Marina , McCance David R. , Nordsborg Rikke Baastrup , Damm Peter ,   the EVOLVE study group
Published: August 2024

Aims

The safety and efficacy of insulin analogue insulin aspart (IAsp) have been demonstrated in a randomised clinical trial in pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes (T1D), and IAsp is widely used during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess glycaemic control and safety of IAsp versus other bolus insulins in Type 1 diabetic pregnancy in a real‐world setting.

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of a prospective cohort study of 1840 pregnant women with T1D, treated with IAsp (n = 1434) or other bolus insulins (n = 406) in the Diabetes Pregnancy Registry. The primary (composite) outcome was the proportion of pregnancies resulting in major congenital malformations or perinatal or neonatal death. Secondary outcomes included all HbA1c values measured immediately before and during pregnancy and major hypoglycaemia, as well as abortion, pre‐eclampsia, pre‐term delivery, large for gestational age at birth, stillbirth and fetal malformations.

Results

There were no significant differences found in any of the pregnancy outcomes between treatment with IAsp and other bolus insulins in either the crude or propensity score‐adjusted analyses. However, maternal HbA1c was lower in the IAsp group at the end of the third trimester (adjusted difference, −0.16% point [95% CI −0.28;−0.05]; −1.8 mmol/mol [95% CI −3.1;−0.6]; p = 0.0046).

Conclusions

No significant differences in safety or pregnancy outcomes were demonstrated when comparing treatment with IAsp versus other bolus insulins in women with T1D during pregnancy. The observed improvement in HbA1c with IAsp in late pregnancy should be confirmed in other studies.
Recurrent venous thromboembolism and vaginal estradiol in women with prior venous thromboembolism: A nested case–control study
Authors: Eckert‐Lind Camilla , Meaidi Amani , Claggett Brian , Johansen Niklas Dyrby , Lassen Mats Christian Højbjerg , Skaarup Kristoffer Grundtvig , Fralick Michael , Pareek Manan , Jensen Jens Ulrik Stæhr , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Gislason Gunnar , Biering‐Sørensen Tor , Modin Daniel
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Whether vaginal estradiol use is associated with an increased risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in women with prior VTE is unknown. We sought to evaluate the association between vaginal estradiol use and recurrent VTE in women with prior VTE.

Methods

We performed a nationwide nested case–control study among 44 024 women aged ≥45 years who developed a first VTE without a history of vaginal estrogen use prior to VTE diagnosis. Cases with recurrent VTE were matched 1:2 on birth year with controls using incidence density sampling. Exposure to vaginal estradiol tablets was categorized into current use (0–2 months before index), prior use (2–24 months before index) and past use (more than 24 months prior to index).

Results

We identified 5066 cases and 10 127 age‐matched controls. In fully adjusted analysis vaginal estrogen was not associated with recurrent VTE with a hazard ratio of 0.75, p = .07 for current use, 0.83, p = .13 for prior use, and 1.24, p = .06 for past use.

Conclusion

Use of vaginal estradiol tablets in women with prior VTE was not associated with an increased rate of recurrent VTE. Our study indicates that vaginal estradiol therapy is unlikely to increase risk of recurrent VTE in women with prior VTE.
Chondroitin/dermatan sulphate proteoglycan, desmosealin, showing affinity to desmosomes
Authors: Laperdrix Céline , Duhieu Stéphane , Haftek Marek
Published: August 2024

Objective

Desmosomes are the most prominent interkeratinocyte junctions. The correct barrier function of stratified epithelia such as epidermis depends on their expression. During epidermal differentiation, the molecular composition of desmosomes evolves and so do their physical and chemical properties. Desquamation of corneocytes at the surface of the stratum corneum depends on an orderly degradation of desmosomes by endogenous enzymes. This process may be regulated by glycosylated molecules. We focused on the detection and characterization of potentially implicated players bearing ‘sugar’ characteristics.

Methods

Using an original monoclonal antibody and biochemical methods, we partially characterized a proteoglycan of the exclusively chondroitin/dermatan sulphate type, secreted into the interkeratinocyte spaces, that is incorporated into the extracellular parts of desmosomes in quantities proportional to the degree of cell differentiation, as visualized with immuno‐electron microscopy.

Results

This antigen, that we named desmosealin, displays biochemical and immunocytochemical characteristics that clearly differentiate it from known desmosomal elements. Unlike so far described epidermal proteoglycans, which belong to the heparan sulphate family, desmosealin displays chondroitin/dermatan sulphate glycosaminoglycan chains. It can be detected within the extracellular ‘cores’ of desmosomes in the upper viable epidermal layers and in corneodesmosomes from the lowermost part of the stratum corneum.

Conclusion

Extensive integration of proteoglycans into the extracellular parts of desmosomes at the late stages of keratinocyte maturation is likely of functional importance. Given its biochemical profile, its pattern of expression in the epidermis and its desmosomal localization, desmosealin may emerge as a key element in the regulation of desmosome processing, epidermal cohesion and formation of a functional epidermal barrier.
Impact of multilamellar formulations on stratum corneum lipid organization and epidermal lipid barrier enhancement (Part II)
Authors: Fluhr Joachim W. , Darlenski Razvigor , Daehnhardt‐Pfeiffer Stephan , Albrecht Martin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The integrity of the stratum corneum (SC) is crucial for the skin's barrier function, protecting against environmental stressors and minimizing transepidermal water loss. Advances in skincare formulations have introduced multilamellar systems designed to emulate the SC's lipid composition and organization. This study hypothesizes that the application of a multilamellar cream will significantly impact the SC's lipid content and lamellar structure, thereby enhancing the epidermal barrier.

Methods

A saturated phosphatidylcholine‐based multilamellar cream was applied to a cohort of adult subjects with very dry skin. Electron microscopy was utilized to analyse the micro‐morphology of the cream and its integration into the lipid‐depleted SC. Lipid analysis was conducted to quantify changes in the intercellular lipid matrix.

Results

Transmission‐electron microscopy (TEM) imaging demonstrated that the multilamellar cream possesses a structured arrangement comparable to the natural SC architecture. Short‐term application revealed a time‐dependent restoration of lipid bilayers, while a 14‐day regimen showed a marked increase in lipid lamellae density and length within the SC. Lipid analysis indicated a significant increase in total lipid content, with notable enhancements in ceramide and free fatty acid levels, without altering cholesterol levels. Lipid ratio analysis further confirmed the rebalancing of the SC's lipid composition.

Discussion

The multilamellar cream selectively increased specific lipids critical for barrier function, suggesting an action mechanism that aligns with the skin's natural regulatory processes. This selective augmentation indicates the potential of the formulation to not only restore but also enhance the epidermal barrier, with the maintenance of physiological lipid ratios suggesting compatibility with intrinsic repair mechanisms.

Conclusion

The study confirms that a multilamellar cream can significantly improve the SC's lipid composition and structural integrity, indicating enhanced barrier function. They are pivotal for skincare professionals, dermatologists, and product developers, enriching the understanding of multilamellar creams' benefits and applications in improving epidermal barrier function.
The role of ceramides in skin barrier function and the importance of their correct formulation for skincare applications
Authors: Schild Jennifer , Kalvodová Aneta , Zbytovská Jarmila , Farwick Mike , Pyko Cornelia
Published: August 2024

Ceramides are a family of lipids constituted by a sphingoid base and a fatty acid. In the skin, they are mainly present in the stratum corneum where, with cholesterol and free fatty acids, they constitute the inter‐corneocyte lipids. With the other lipid groups, they play a key role in the formation of dense lamellar structures between adjacent corneocytes, collectively ensuring the vital efficient barrier to water evaporation and protection from foreign agents´ penetration. Changes in ceramide level and relative composition, with potential impairment of lipid arrangement, have been evidenced in different skin conditions and skin diseases. Therefore, use of suitably formulated ceramides has been proposed for topical treatment to help re‐structure damaged lipid arrangement and repair impaired skin barrier function. Nonetheless, the formulation of ceramides in products necessitates specific processes such as heating to high temperature before their introduction in the final formula. In this review on the structure, the role and the potential of ceramides for skincare, we point out the necessity of rigorous process when formulating ceramides into the final product. We demonstrate the counterproductive effects of undissolved ceramides on skin barrier repair capacity of the formulas, when assessed in different in vitro models of disrupted skin barrier.
Assessing porosity limit in freeze‐cast sintered lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12) materials
Authors: Parai Rohan , Ghosh Dipankar
Published: August 2024

This study aims to assess the lower limit of porosity that can be achieved in freeze‐cast sintered lithium titanate (LTO) materials while maintaining the characteristic pore directionality. LTO materials were fabricated with solid loading varying in the range of 30–37 vol.%. Sucrose and cationic dispersant were used to vary viscosity and total solute concentration in the aqueous LTO suspensions. Two series of suspension compositions were selected for freeze‐casting. In one series, aqueous suspensions were prepared by mixing deionized (DI) water, sucrose, and LTO powder, while in the other series, aqueous suspensions were prepared by mixing DI water, sucrose, cationic dispersant (1‐hexadecyl)trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and LTO powder. With increasing solid loading from 30 to 37 vol.%, porosity in the sintered materials decreased from about 50 to 36 vol.%. LTO materials fabricated from suspensions containing sucrose exhibited well‐developed characteristic freeze‐cast microstructure. Unexpectedly, LTO materials fabricated from suspensions containing sucrose and dispersant exhibited cellular pore morphology irrespective of the solid loading. Sample height had an impact on microstructure evolution in the transition zone and zone length. With the increasing solid loading from 30 to 37 vol.%, the compressive strength of sintered LTO materials having the characteristic freeze‐cast microstructure increased from about 110 to 240 MPa.
How does background knowledge affect second language reading? An eye movement study
Authors: An Na , Wright Clare , Wang Jun
Published: August 2024

There is broad consensus that a reader's background knowledge on a reading topic affects both their reading processes and comprehension in their first language and also in a second language. However, it is unclear whether a reader's background knowledge specifically affects reading comprehension accuracy and reading rate. The extent to which background knowledge facilitates second language reading when compared to a reader's L2 linguistic knowledge is also unclear. Moreover, the mental process accounting for the interaction between general background knowledge, type of linguistic knowledge such as vocabulary or writing system, and L2 reading abilities also need to be identified. Using texts in Mandarin Chinese, this paper investigates these problems with an eye‐movement study administered to 40 L2 Chinese learners with Indo‐European L1s. Results illustrate that an L2 reader's background knowledge about the text can positively impact both their reading comprehension and reading rate; however, the influence on the latter could be topic‐dependent. In more challenging topics, the contribution of background knowledge to reading comprehension could outweigh any single type of linguistic knowledge, even if the target language uses a more cognitively demanding writing system. The connectionist account proposed by the construction–integration theory is suggested to be currently the best theoretical explanation for the mental process behind developing second‐language reading abilities. Pedagogical implications are also considered based on these findings.
New Scheme of Empirical Likelihood Method for Ranked Set Sampling: Applications to Two One‐Sample Problems
Authors: Ahn Soohyun , Wang Xinlei , Moon Chul , Lim Johan
Published: August 2024

We propose a novel empirical likelihood (EL) approach for ranked set sampling (RSS) that leverages the ranking structure and information of the RSS. Our new proposal suggests constraining the sum of the within‐stratum probabilities of each rank stratum to , where is the number of rank strata. The use of the additional constraints eliminates the need of subjective weight selection in unbalanced RSS and facilitates a seamless extension of the method for balanced RSS to unbalanced RSS. We apply our new proposal to testing one sample population mean and evaluate its performance through a numerical study and two real‐world data sets, examining obesity from body fat data and symmetry of dental size from human tooth size data. We further consider the extension of the proposed EL method to jackknife EL.
Information technology and outbound tourism: A cross‐country analysis
Authors: Nguyen Canh Phuc , Schinckus Christophe , Chong Felicia Hui Ling , Nguyen Binh Quang , Tran Duyen Thuy Le
Published: August 2024

This article provides a comprehensive investigation of the global tourism industry, combining two critical streams from the academic literature: the economic determinants of the tourism industry and the influence of technology on this industry. More precisely, this study examines the influences of technology advancement (Internet and mobile usage) on the outbound tourism (OT) in a global sample. We found interesting and consistent results by applying various panel data estimations for a sample of 126 economies composed by 3 subsamples, including (49 Low and Lower‐Middle Income Economies [LMEs], 29 Upper‐Middle Income Economies [UMEs] and 48 High‐Income Economies [HIEs]) between 2000 and 2017. Internet use has a significant positive impact on all the three aspects of OT, including total OT expenditures, international tourism expenditures for travel items and the number of international tourism departures. The effects of Internet usage are stronger than the one observed for mobile usage. Finally, the positive influences of Internet and mobile usage are found with strong consistency across the three income groups (with a stronger marginal impact in HIEs and UMEs, and lastly in LMEs). Our study invites policy‐makers to integrate digital information within the tourism sector to boost the industry and economic growth.
Size‐selective harvesting drives genomic shifts in a harvested population
Authors: Sadler Daniel E. , Sävilammi Tiina , van Dijk Stephan N. , Watts Phillip C. , Uusi‐Heikkilä Silva
Published: August 2024

Overfishing not only drastically reduces the number of fish in an exploited population but is also often selective for body size by removing the largest individuals from a population. Here, we study experimentally the evolutionary effects of size‐selective harvesting using whole‐genome sequencing on a model organism, the zebrafish (Danio rerio). We demonstrate genomic shifts in the populations exposed to size‐selective harvesting for five generations and show reduced genetic diversity in all harvested lines, including the control line (non‐size‐selected). We also determine differences in groups of genes related to certain gene ontology annotations between size‐selectively harvested lines, with enrichment in nervous system related genes in the large‐selected lines. Our results illuminate the biological processes underlying fisheries‐induced genetic changes and hence contribute toward the understanding of the changes potentially associated with the vulnerability of an exploited population to future stressors.
Research on seeds compression‐structural damage and castor oil extraction mechanism with in situ observation
Authors: Yang Liu , Cui Bo , Chen Huan , Wu Junfeng , Xu Zilong , Xiao Xuan , Wang Zhicheng , Song Shaoyun , Zhang Yonglin
Published: August 2024

Castor oil has attracted large attention for wide applications, including lubrication oil and bioenergy resources. Castor seeds mechanical pressing is widely used for oil extraction. To better research castor seeds mechanical‐structural damage behavior and oil extraction mechanism during extrusion, a self‐developed mechanical pressing test setup combined with in situ observation is built for oil output behavior. Influencing factors of working pressure, speed, temperature and creep time on oil outflow were investigated. The results indicate that seeds squeezing extraction can be divided into three stages, preloading, oil discharging, compressing consolidation stage, matching with pressing cake structural evolution. As working pressure increases, oil yield shows an upper parabola relation with pressure. When pressure exceeding 25 MPa, castor oil yield increasing tends to stabilize, reaching 38%. Speed effect showed down parabola relation on oil yield, opposite to stress factor. Creep time promoted oil output with upper parabola within 720 s. When temperature below 120°C, a linear increasing relation on oil yield presents. Oil yield decreases when above 120°C. This research provides in‐depth theoretical guidance for industrial castor oil extraction.

Practical Applications

Castor seeds are rich in oil content. Extracted castor oil has been widely used for industrial applications such as biodiesel, lubricants, medicine. Mechanical extraction working parameters optimization can improve oil yield of castor seeds. The research provides a basic working optimization for castor seeds oil extraction. Castor oil has unique properties and has been proved to be a high promising renewable and independent energy sources. Compared with solvent oil extraction, mechanical oil pressing extraction method has higher oil quality and safety. The mechanical extracted oil is pure without organic solvent. In the research, castor seeds compression‐structural damage property and oil extraction mechanism were studied. Besides, the influence factors including compression pressure, speed, temperature and creep time are analyzed, working optimization for castor seeds oil extraction. The research provides important reference value for the mechanical pressing process and mechanical design of castor seeds in the practical applications.
Analysis of the Ag M4,5 EELS edge to study silver nanoparticle corrosion
Authors: Brennan JC , MacLaren DA
Published: August 2024

Electron energy loss spectra collected from fresh and corroded silver nanoparticles are compared with those from a number of reference materials, focusing on the M4,5 edge. Chemical shifts and changes in the energy loss near edge structure (ELNES) are described and found to be sufficient to distinguish metallic silver from chemically oxidised silver. The measurements, in conjunction with electron energy loss spectrum imaging, are used to assess the mechanisms for atmospheric corrosion of silver nanoparticles. We unambiguously assign the corrosion product under atmospheric conditions to be silver sulphide, but show the reaction process to be distinctly inhomogeneous, producing a variety of types of corroded particles.

LAY DESCRIPTION: >Here, we use analytical electron microscopy to track the corrosion of silver nanoparticles and present chemical maps of the corrosion products. We show clear spectroscopic differences between metallic and corroded silver using the M4,5 electron energy loss spectral feature, which is not commonly studied. Our study shows that corrosion is due to interactions with sulphur in the atmosphere; and the corrosion is not uniform, but appears to develop from specific points on the surface of the nanoparticles.
Surgical treatment and outcome of primary rib tumours in cats: eight cases (2016‐2023)
Authors: Cinti F. , Martano M. , Rossanese M. , Selmic L. E. , Fontes G. S. , Cino M. , Montinaro V. , Tremolada G.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To describe the clinical features and oncologic outcome for cats with primary rib tumours.

Materials and Methods

Medical records for cats with surgically treated primary rib tumours from six veterinary referral centres were reviewed. Signalment, preoperative clinical signs, reconstruction technique, and surgical and oncologic outcome were retrieved from medical records or by telephone interview with owners and/or referring veterinarians.

Results

Of the eight cats with primary rib tumours, three had hemangiosarcoma, two had osteosarcoma and one cat each had chondrosarcoma, osteochondroma and osteoma. The size of the primary rib mass ranged from 2 × 2 × 1.6 cm to 9 × 7 × 7.5 cm. Three minor and one major complication developed during the immediate post‐operative period. Surgery consisted of thoracic wall resection in all cats. All animals survived the procedure and the median time to discharge was 3 days. The survival time for benign tumours was 150 (case 5) and 466 (case 4) days, while for malignant tumours ranged from 105 to 550 days (cases 1 to 3, cases 6 to 8).

Clinical Significance

Hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma were the most represented primary rib tumours in this cohort of cats. Wide surgical excision and adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended for cats with hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma, but the prognosis remains guarded. Prognosis appears to be fair for the other tumour types.
Feline acute patient physiologic and laboratory evaluation scores and other prognostic factors in cats with first‐time diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Ad Yael , Hess Rebecka S.
Published: August 2024

Background

Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE) scores have not been reported in cats with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Hypothesis

In cats with DKA, APPLE scores will be significantly higher in non‐survivors compared with survivors and these scores will predict mortality.

Animals

Sixty‐eight cats with DKA.

Methods

Retrospective study. The APPLE scores, blood glucose concentration (BG), venous pH, and ketone concentrations were compared between survivors and non‐survivors. Simple logistic regression was used to determine if these variables predict the binary variable of survival or non‐survival, and if they did, an empirical optimal cut point for mortality prediction was calculated.

Results

The APPLEfast and APPLEfull scores were significantly higher in non‐survivors (30 cats; and , respectively) compared with survivors (38 cats; and ; P = .01 and P = .02, respectively). The APPLEfast (P = .03) but not the APPLEfull scores (P = .06) predicted mortality. For every 1 unit increase in the APPLEfast score, the odds of death increased by 1.08 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.006‐1.17; P = .03). Median BG was significantly higher in non‐survivors (431 mg/dL; range, 260‐832 mg/dL) compared with survivors (343 mg/dL; range, 256‐738 mg/dL; P = .01) and BG predicted mortality (P = .02). For every 1 mg/dL increase in BG, the odds of death increased by 1.004 (95% CI, 1.0006‐1.008). Empirical optimal cut points for APPLEfast and BG mortality prediction were 24.5 and 358 mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The APPLEfast score and BG predict mortality in cats with DKA and can be used to stratify populations by risk of mortality in clinical trials of DKA in cats.
Antidiarrheal, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Anethum graveolens L. fruit extract on castor oil‐induced diarrhea in rats
Authors: Brinsi Chirine , Jedidi Saber , Sammari Houcem , Selmi Houcine , Sebai Hichem
Published: August 2024

Background

Between food and medicine, nutraceuticals are widely used in human health for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. This study aims to determine the cytoprotective effects of Anethum gravelons fruit extract (AGFAE) on castor oil‐induced diarrhea in rats due to its phytochemical and antioxidant properties.

Methods

Male rats were divided into six groups of six animals each: Control (C), Castor oil (CO), CO + different doses of AGFAE (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, b.w., p.o.), and the CO + loperamide group (LOP, 10 mg/kg, b.w., p.o.).

Key Results

In vitro, the chemical composition of aqueous Dill fruit extract showed strong antioxidant activity, with a high content of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. In our in vivo studies, pre‐treatment with AGFAE reduced malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels and maintained normal activity of enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants in the gastric and intestinal mucosa. In addition, we found that AGFAE prophylaxis improved the stability of many plasma biochemical parameters altered by castor oil intoxication, such as C‐reactive protein concentrations and alkaline phosphatase activities.

Conclusions & Inferences

We suggest that AGFAE phenolic compounds had significant protection against diarrhea involving several mechanisms such as reducing hypersecretion, peristaltic, inflammation, and preserving the endogenous antioxidant levels.
Rheological sand bed generates non‐rebounding particles
Authors: Wang Zhengshi , Li Zhi , Jia Shuming
Published: August 2024

Wind‐blown sand movements induce desertification and cause various environmental problems. This study investigates the rebound probability of sand particles during sand transport. The widely used rebound probability models are essentially empirical and the mechanism that generates non‐rebounding particles remains unclear. By tracking the grain–bed collision process of impact particles in steady‐state sand flows, it was observed that non‐rebounding particles undergo repetitive collisional momentum losses within the rheological layer of the sand bed. Therefore, rebound probability models based on the incident velocity and angle cannot realistically describe rebound probability. Furthermore, the rheological sand bed produces numerous rebound particles with a coefficient of restitution above 1.0, converting the normal distribution of the coefficient of restitution into a lognormal distribution pattern with considerably larger variances. The new insights into aeolian rebounds gained through this study are expected to reduce the uncertainties in sand flux predictions.
Revealing an association between HPV and systemic lupus erythematosus: A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Pan Fangfang , Shen Huiliang , Wang Ben , Wang Jian
Published: August 2024

Background

An increasing number of studies have focused on the association between Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, current evidence is largely based on retrospective studies, which are susceptible to confounding factors and cannot establish causation.

Methods

A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design was used to evaluate the causal relationship between HPV and SLE. Mononucleoside polymers (SNPS) with strong evidence for genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) were selected from the HPV exposure dataset and used as an instrumental variable (IV) for this study. For the MR Analysis results, the MR‐Egger intercept P test, MR‐Presso global test, CochranQ test and leave‐one test were used for sensitivity analysis.

Results

Based on the evidence of MR Analysis, this study finally determined that there was no causal association between HPV16 and HPV18 and SLE.

Conclusions

Possible regulation of HPV infection is not significantly associated with regulation of SLE. These findings provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms of HPV and SLE and need to be validated by further studies.
Identification of potential therapeutic targets for skin cutaneous melanoma on the basic of transcriptomics
Authors: Shi Fengling , Li Tao , Shi Huiling , Wei Yushan , Wang Juan , Liu Canyu , Liang Ruirong
Published: August 2024

Background

Advanced skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is responsible for the majority of skin cancer‐related deaths. Apart from the rare BRAF V600F mutation, which can be targeted with specific drugs, there are currently no other novel effective therapeutic targets.

Methods

We used SMR analysis with cis‐expressed quantitative trait locus (cis‐eQTL) as the exposure variable and SKCM as the outcome variable to identify potential therapeutic targets for SKCM. Colocalization assays and HEIDI tests are used to test whether SKCM risk and gene expression are driven by common SNPs. Replication analysis further validated the findings, and we also constructed protein–protein interaction networks to explore the relationship between the identified genes and known SKCM targets. Drug prediction and molecular docking further validated the medicinal value of drug targets. Transcriptome differential analysis further validated that there were differences between normal tissues and SKCM for the selected targets.

Results

We identified 13 genes significantly associated with the risk of SKCM, including five protective genes and eight harmful genes. The HEIDI test and co‐localization analysis further indicates a causal association between genes (SOX4, MAFF) and SKCM, categorized as Class 1 evidence targets. The remaining 11 genes, except for HELZ2 show a moderately causal association with SKCM, categorized as Class 2 evidence targets. Target druggability predictions from DGIdb suggest that SOX4, MAFF, ACSF3, CDK10, SPG7, and TCF25 are likely to be future drug targets.

Conclusion

The study provides genetic evidence for targeting available drug genes for the treatment of SKCM.
Wave Energy Farm Assessment in Real Wave Climates: The North Sea
Authors: Raghavan Vaibhav , Alday G. Matias , Metrikine Andrei , Lavidas George
Published: August 2024

Wave energy has immense potential and can provide at least twice as much electricity as globally produced now due to its high energy density. Apart from the vast accessibility of the resource, waves are more predictable and available throughout the year when compared to other forms of renewable energies. This makes the development and utilization of wave energy technologies immensely important, in order to meet the renewable energy targets, an example of which is the 40GW by 2050 set as the offshore energy strategy of the European Commission. For wave energy to become a commercially viable power source, individual wave energy converters (WECs) need to be deployed in large numbers similar to what can be seen in the wind industry. Therefore, numerical tools simulating multiple interacting devices becomes highly relevant. This research utilizes the new open-source Boundary Element Method (BEM) based solver HAMS-MREL to analyse the hydrodynamic interactions of mono-array farms of point absorbers inspired by the state-of-the-art Corpower C4 point absorber device in various configurations subjected to waves in different directions. The obtained responses are used to estimate the power absorbed by the arrays in different configurations to obtain the Array Power Matrices, which can be used to study the variability of the q-factors in different sea states and different directions. Furthermore, the obtained Array Power Matrices are used to estimate the power absorbed by the array configurations in the North Sea. This can be a powerful tool for the analysis of the best wave energy farm configurations as it employs a computationally efficient frequency domain-based solver.
Comparison of Methods for Seismic Response Analysis of an Offshore Jacket Platform Located in Bohai Bay, China
Authors: Wu Mengning , Dai Guohua , Pang Honglin , Wu Jingjian , Li Xiangyun , Liang Peng
Published: August 2024

As designing offshore jacket platforms in seismically active regions, it is imperative to account for the seismic-induced loads on the structure. In this study, seismic structural analysis of an offshore jacket platform located in Bohai Bay, China is conducted using the response spectrum analysis (RSA) method and the time history analysis (THA) method. The structural dynamic responses are compared and the applicability of the two methods in the seismic design of jacket platform is assessed. Furthermore, a sensitivity study is conducted to investigate the effects of earthquake strengths, deck weights and pile diameters on the structural seismic responses using the two analysis methods. Typical results revealed that the RSA method is the preferred choice for seismic design when it comes to offshore jacket platforms situated in regions characterized by low seismic ground motions. Nonetheless, in regions with high seismic intensity levels, a more precise method should be contemplated. In such scenarios, the THA method is preferred, by conducting the nonlinear dynamic response analysis to account for the seismic-induced excitation loads. This approach has the potential to lead more efficient and cost-effective pile and platform designs.
Optimal Mooring Pattern for a Semi-Submersible FOWT in a Typhoon Environment
Authors: Ivanov Glib , Wu Yongyan , Chen DongHui , Lai Zhao-Yu , Chen Jui-Chen , Gladkov Nikolai , Ma Kai-Tung
Published: August 2024

The scarcity of suitable shallow waters for fixed-bottom offshore wind turbines has prompted developers to explore deeper waters, albeit with caution due to the significant capital expenditure (CAPEX) associated with Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (FOWTs). A major cost component in FOWTs is the mooring system, a concern exacerbated in regions with the presence of typhoons, necessitating a more robust and therefore expensive 3 × 3 mooring solution compared to 3 × 1 in areas such as the North Sea. This study tried to propose a 3 × 2 mooring arrangement tailored for FOWTs in the typhoon region, offering a potential cost reduction of up to one-third compared to the original 3 × 3 configuration.

To achieve cost savings, an in-depth analysis of spreading angles from 10° to the widest angle of 126° is performed using the pre-tension-diameter vs offset-tension 3D response surfaces technique. The research reveals that, theoretically, a 60° mooring angle minimizes floater offset with the least tension. However, the discrepancy in safety factors between intact and damaged conditions makes grouped mooring a more cost-effective choice. Utilizing the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) safety factor, a 10° spread angle mooring system’s chain cost emerges as roughly one-tenth cheaper than alternative configurations.

Additionally, the study explores an innovative V-Share mooring [1], wherein a single pile anchor connects to two different columns via two mooring lines. Depending on the anchoring conditions, it can be the most cost-effective.

In conclusion, a 3 × 2 mooring pattern for a 15MW semi-submersible FOWT in typhoon regions might be theoretically achieved on paper. However, it may not be practically achieved, if the size limit of the manufactured chain is considered.
Coupled Analysis of External Dynamics and Internal Mechanics in Ship-Floating Bridge Collision Studies
Authors: Wang Zihao , Sha Yanyan , Jakobsen Jasna Bogunović
Published: August 2024

Ship collisions with floating bridges in the navigation area are complex processes involving highly nonlinear dynamics, large structural deformations, and fluid-structure interactions (FSI). In the traditional approach for collision analyses, the external dynamics and internal mechanics of the ship-bridge system are treated independently. Limitations have been reported for this decoupled method in predicting the structural responses during oblique collisions. This study introduces an algorithm to integrate the external dynamics and internal mechanics in ship-floating bridge collision studies, addressing the complexities of a multibody system. The external dynamics of a traveling ship colliding with a floating bridge is modeled using OrcaFlex, while the internal mechanics is simulated in LS-DYNA. Through the developed algorithm, two analyses are conducted interactively. The algorithm incorporates the considerations of hydrodynamic forces acting on the floating bodies, their six degrees of freedom (6DOF) motions, and the structural internal forces within the multibody system. The simulation results reveal that the collision forces, effective stress, plastic strain of the striking ship and the struck pontoon, as well as the energy dissipation, are sensitive to the boundary conditions applied to the pontoon.
Structural Integrity Analysis of Marine Dynamic Cables
Authors: McCormick Robbie , Fagan Nicholas , Stewart Greg , Marwood Tom , Ringsberg Jonas W. , Li Zhiyuan
Published: August 2024

Offshore power cables are typically designed to have a service life of around twenty-five years. A pattern is emerging where these cables only last ten years or even as little as two. The main consensus as to why the service life is so short is due to a combination of fatigue and fretting/wear damages of the copper conductors and water treeing in the insulation material. This study presents a method that can be used to analyse the structural integrity of dynamic subsea power cables and estimate their service life determined by the factors above. The numerical simulation models developed and used to carry out global and local fatigue analysis of dynamic subsea power cables are presented, together with methods and models for assessing fretting, wear and growth of water tree defects. A methodology for structural integrity assessment that includes all these factors is proposed. A dynamic subsea power cable connected to a wave energy converter is used as the case study for comparison of the service life when these factors are considered compared to when, e.g., the growth of water trees is excluded.
Cyclic Cohesive Zone Model (CCZM)-Based Fatigue Crack Initiation Prediction for a Mooring Chain
Authors: Song Zhi-Hao , Chen Nian-Zhong , Zheng Tingsen
Published: August 2024

Offshore mooring chains are generally subjected to cyclic loads induced by the ocean environment and fatigue failure of mooring chains occurs with high frequency. For safety reason, it is necessary to perform fatigue assessment for offshore mooring chains during the design phase. In this study, a cyclic cohesive zone model (CCZM) is constructed for fatigue crack initiation prediction for a mooring chain. Different from the traditional approaches such as S-N curves and T-N curves, the material fatigue is regarded as an irreversible and continuous process and it can continuously take into account stiffness degradation of the material and non-linear accumulation of fatigue damage during the fatigue process. In the cyclic cohesive zone model, the constitutive equation called as traction-separation law is adjusted to linear unloading according to the stress states of a mooring chain, and the accumulated fatigue damage is then measured by a damage evolution equation where the fatigue damage is quantified by material deformation weighted by loading. A case study on fatigue crack initiation prediction for a mooring chain is performed to demonstrate the capability of the cyclic cohesive zone model. The life of fatigue crack initiation predicted by the cyclic cohesive zone model is then compared with experimental data and the life calculated by method from industrial standard. Furthermore, an analysis is carried out to predict the fatigue crack initiation of a mooring chain with a corrosion pit. Results of this study demonstrate that the cyclic cohesive zone model has the capability to reasonably predict the fatigue crack initiation of an offshore mooring chain.
Numerical Simulation of a Semi-Taut Moored Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Under a Mooring Line Failure in Shallow Waters
Authors: Tang Hung-Jie , Li Di-Rong , Yang Ray-Yeng , Hsu Tai-Wen
Published: August 2024

The potential sites for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) in Taiwan are mostly located in shallow water depths ranging from 50 m to 100 m. Recent studies reveal that semi-taut mooring appears to be a feasible solution for FOWTs in shallow waters. However, the potential area is also one of the busiest navigation channels in the world, indicating that the issue of mooring line failure should be carefully considered. Thus, this study aims to investigate the feasibility of a semi-taut mooring configuration applied to FOWTs in shallow waters and the impact of mooring line failure on it. For this study, the 15 MW semi-submersible FOWT reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA) is adopted, equipped with three mooring lines. The study area is situated at a water depth of 70 meters off northeast Taiwan, and the extreme sea state is a combination of a 50-year return period of irregular waves, wind, and current. Comparison results among the catenary chain and two types of semi-taut mooring (Polyester and nylon) demonstrate that both semi-taut mooring configurations notably decrease the probability of touchdown points nearing anchor locations and substantially reduce the maximum load. Additionally, they reduce surge and pitch responses but increase heave responses, with little differences in other degrees of freedom. The comparison results of upstream mooring line failure on the three mooring configurations indicate that after the failure, the semi-taut mooring reaches balance states faster, but the drift distance of the catenary chain is shorter. In conclusion, the two semi-taut moorings could be considered as viable and superior solutions for FOWTs in the shallow water areas of Taiwan.