bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of a Single Instrument-Assisted Manual Therapy (IAMT) for the Lower Back on the Structural and Functional Properties of the Dorsal Myofascial Chain in Female Soccer Players: A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Weber Patrick , Klingler Werner , Schleip Robert , Weber Nadine , Joisten Christine
Published: November 2022

Background: Instrument-assisted manual therapy (IAMT) is indicated to improve flexibility, reduce pain, and induce hyperaemia locally and along myofascial chains. The underlying effects are largely unclear. This randomised, placebo-controlled pilot study aimed to gain first insights into these effects, primarily on the structural level, through ultrasonography. Methods: 67 healthy female soccer players aged 20.9 (±3.9) years were examined after right lumbar intervention (IAMT: intervention group (IG), heat application: comparison group (CG), pressure-less placebo: placebo group (PG)). Ultrasonography (absolute movement and shear motion), flexibility tests (passive straight leg raise test (PSLR), lumbar and thoracic double inclinometry), and superficial skin temperature were recorded before (t0), immediately (t1) and 45 min after the intervention (t2). Results: IAMT decreased the absolute mobility of the superficial lamina and its shear motion to the superficial fascia compared with the PG (t1; p < 0.05). PSLR improved in the IG compared with the CG (t2) and PG (t1, t2; p < 0.05). The temperature increased in the IG and CG compared with the PG (t1, t2) and in the CG compared with the IG (t1; p < 0.05). Conclusion: IAMT of the lumbar back briefly reduces absolute mobility of the superficial lamina and its shear motion to the superficial fascia, improves flexibility, and increases the temperature.
Upper Extremity Skeletal Muscle Mass Asymmetry Exacerbated by Shoulder Imbalance in Lenke1A Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Ohba Tetsuro , Goto Go , Tanaka Nobuki , Oda Kotaro , Katsu Marina , Takei Hayato , Koyama Kensuke , Oba Hiroki , Haro Hirotaka
Published: November 2022

Limb muscle strength asymmetry affects many physical abilities. The present study (1) quantified limb muscle asymmetry in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS); (2) compared AIS patients with major thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) or major thoracic (MT) curves; (3) examined correlations between limb muscle asymmetry and radiographic parameters. Patients with AIS with major TL/L curves (Lenke type 5C) and MT curves (Lenke Type 1A) who underwent posterior spinal fusion at our university hospitals were included. Patients with left hand dominance were excluded. Body composition was measured using whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and asymmetry of left and right side skeletal muscles were evaluated. Upper extremity skeletal muscles on the dominant side were significantly larger than those on the nondominant side in both Lenke1A and 5C groups. The asymmetry of upper extremity skeletal muscles was significantly greater in the Lenke1A group than in the Lenke5C group. Additionally, the size of the asymmetry did not correlate with the magnitude of the major curve and rotational deformation but did correlate with a right shoulder imbalance in the Lenke1A group. These results suggest that in AIS with a constructive thoracic curve, right shoulder imbalance is an independent risk factor for upper extremity skeletal muscle asymmetry.
Neonatal Morbidity after Cervical Ripening with a Singleton Fetus in a Breech Presentation at Term
Authors: Berthommier Laura , Planche Lucie , Ducarme Guillaume
Published: November 2022

Vaginal delivery in women with a breech presentation is part of common practice in France despite much debate, and the induction of labor (IOL) with a fetus in a breech presentation at term remains uncommon. Little is known about the effectiveness of cervical ripening and its neonatal and maternal safety in these women. We present a retrospective study of 362 women who gave birth to a live singleton fetus in a breech presentation at term. The objective was to compare severe maternal and neonatal morbidity according to the planned mode of labor (spontaneous labor or the induction of labor (IOL) with a favorable cervix, cervical ripening, or elective cesarean delivery) and, specifically, to compare cervical ripening to the other modes of labor. The rate of severe neonatal morbidity was 3.0% and was significantly higher after the IOL compared to elective cesarean delivery (p = 0.02), and the severe maternal morbidity rates were similar. Multivariable logistic regression analysis found no significant association between cervical ripening and either composite severe neonatal (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.10–43.6) or maternal morbidity (aOR 1.29, 95% CI 0.05–11.5). Our results support a policy of offering cervical ripening to the appropriately selected candidates with a singleton fetus in a breech presentation at term without increasing the incidence of severe maternal and neonatal morbidity.
Social Determinants of Health and Impact on Screening, Prevalence, and Management of Diabetic Retinopathy in Adults: A Narrative Review
Authors: Patel Dhruva , Ananthakrishnan Ajaykarthik , Lin Tyger , Channa Roomasa , Liu T. Y. Alvin , Wolf Risa M.
Published: November 2022

Diabetic retinal disease (DRD) is the leading cause of blindness among working-aged individuals with diabetes. In the United States, underserved and minority populations are disproportionately affected by diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related health outcomes. In this narrative review, we describe racial disparities in the prevalence and screening of diabetic retinopathy, as well as the wide-range of disparities associated with social determinants of health (SDOH), which include socioeconomic status, geography, health-care access, and education.
Identification of Neural Mechanisms in First Single-Sweep Analysis in oVEMPs and Novel Normative Data
Authors: Hecker Dietmar J. , Scherer Hans , Schönfeld Uwe , Jerono Laura , Koch Armand , Rink Anna-Katharina , Schulte-Goebel Lisa , Linxweiler Maximilian , Fousse Mathias , Bozzato Alessandro , Schick Bernhard
Published: November 2022

Background: Bone-conducted (BC) VEMPs provide important tools for measuring otolith function. However, two major drawbacks of this method are encountered in clinical practice—small n10 amplitude and averaging technique. In this study, we present the results of a new VEMP setup measuring technique combined with a novel single-sweep analysis. Methods: The study included BC oVEMP data from 92 participants for the evaluation of normative data using a novel analysis technique. For evaluating test-retest reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used. Results: We found significant n10 amplitude differences in single-sweep analyses after the first and second measurements. Thereby, mathematical analyses of the head movement did not show any differences in the first or second measurements. The normative n10 amplitude was 20.66 µV with an asymmetric ratio (AR) of 7%. The new value of late shift difference (LSD) was 0.01 ms. The test retest-reliability showed good to excellent ICC results in 9 out of 10 measurements. Conclusions: Our results support a phenomenon in single-sweep analysis of the first stimuli independent of head movement and signal morphology. Furthermore, the values obtained with the new measurement method appear to be more sensitive and may allow an extended diagnostic range due to the new parameter LSD.
A Robust Method to Automatically Detect Fin Whale Acoustic Presence in Large and Diverse Passive Acoustic Datasets
Authors: Schall Elena , Parcerisas Clea
Published: November 2022

The growing availability of long-term and large-scale passive acoustic recordings open the possibility of monitoring the vocal activity of elusive oceanic species, such as fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), in order to acquire knowledge on their distribution, behavior, population structure and abundance. Fin whales produce low-frequency and high-intensity pulses, both as single vocalizations and as song sequences (only males) which can be detected over large distances. Numerous distant fin whales producing these pulses generate a so-called chorus, by spectrally and temporally overlapping single vocalizations. Both fin whale pulses and fin whale chorus provide a distinct source of information on fin whales present at different distances to the recording location. The manual review of vast amounts of passive acoustic data for the presence of single vocalizations and chorus by human experts is, however, time-consuming, often suffers from low reproducibility and in its entirety, it is practically impossible. In this publication, we present and compare robust algorithms for the automatic detection of fin whale choruses and pulses which yield good performance results (i.e., false positive rates < 3% and true positive rates > 76%) when applied to real-world passive acoustic datasets characterized by vast amounts of data, with only a small proportion of the data containing the target sounds, and diverse soundscapes from the Southern Ocean.
Experimental Investigation on Vibro-Acoustic Characteristics of Stiffened Plate Structures with Different Welding Parameters
Authors: Chen Ziheng , Jia Xiaodan , Lin Yongshui , Liu Huabing , Wu Weiguo
Published: November 2022

Varied welding process parameters result in different welding energy inputs and welding residual stresses, significantly impacting the vibro-acoustic characteristics. This work investigated the influence of different welding energy inputs on the vibro-acoustic characteristics of the stiffened plate structure. Several experiments on the stiffened plate structure with different welding energy inputs were conducted regarding modal, underwater vibration, and acoustic radiation. The results revealed that welding energy input had the most significant impact on the first-order natural frequency, and the impact first becomes higher and subsequently decreases as welding energy input increases. The welding energy input had relatively little effect on the peak point distribution of vibration and acoustic radiation curves but could affect the peak point amplitude. With the increase in welding energy input, the overall vibration acceleration level and sound radiation level in each frequency band decreased and then increased. The best result was obtained when the welding energy input was 167 J/cm with a welding current of 200 A, a welding voltage of 25 V, and a welding speed of 3.02–3.06 mm/s. Based on construction technology, this research can provide some instructive insights for enhancing the acoustic stealth performance of ships and marine structures.
SAR Observation of Waves under Ice in the Marginal Ice Zone
Authors: Dai Ziyue , Li Huimin , Liu Dongbo , Wang Chen , Shi Lijian , He Yijun
Published: November 2022

The marginal ice zone (MIZ) connects the open ocean and the pack ice, playing significant roles in shaping the ice edge and wave–ice interaction. Spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has been demonstrated to be one of the most advantageous sensors for MIZ exploration given its capability to collect images under all weather conditions during day and night. In this study, we take advantage of the Sentinel-1 wave mode vignettes acquired around the Antarctic to quantify the image properties over MIZ. A data set of SAR images covering the ice edge with both open water and sea ice present in the same scene was created by manual inspection. It is found that the radar return over sea ice decreases by an average of approximately 1.78 dB in comparison to its adjacent open water, which is roughly independent of the polarizations and incidence angles. The long ocean waves are barely attenuated right across the ice edge in terms of their comparable azimuth cutoff. Further inside the ice from the edge, the waves are gradually dampened out at distances associated with their wavelengths. The results obtained in this study shall help interpret the radar scattering model validation as well as the wave–ice interaction.
Feasibility Analysis of the Effects of Scrubber Installation on Ships
Authors: Karatuğ Çağlar , Arslanoğlu Yasin , Guedes Soares C.
Published: November 2022

A feasibility analysis was conducted on a crude oil tanker. Differences in power generation and fuel consumption of the diesel generators based on the noon report of the specified marine vessel were analyzed for similar periods before and after the scrubber application. Accordingly, the changes in releasing amounts of emissions were calculated. Then, a financial evaluation was realized with three economic indicators. As a result of the analysis performed, it is found that the power generation and fuel consumption realized by each diesel generator are increased after scrubber application. Nevertheless, its implementation on board may be considered acceptable in light of the economic findings. However, it has been determined that scrubber implementation causes an increase in all pollutants’ amounts except SOX. Therefore, it contradicts the zero-emission ship target and decarbonization strategy stated by IMO.
N-to-D Movement within Compounds and Phrases:Referential Compounding, -s Possessives, and Title Expressions in Dutch
Authors: De Belder Marijke
Published: November 2022

Noun–noun concatenations can differ along two parameters. They can be compounds, i.e., single words, or constructs, i.e., constituents, and they can have modificational non-heads or referential non-heads. Of the four logical possibilities, one was argued not to exist: compounds of which the non-head is referential were considered to be principally excluded. In this article, I argue that Dutch has compounds with a referential non-head. They resemble the Dutch s-possessive in that their non-heads involve movement to a referential layer. However, unlike the possessive structures, the compounding structure contains head incorporation which results in word-hood. The article further discusses title expressions, such as Prince Charles, which are argued to be referential construct states. Together with the syntactic structure of titles plus proper names, the referential compounds further contribute evidence to the idea that a ban on N-to-D movement for certain uniquely referring roots, such as sun and Bronx, is extra-syntactic.
Study of High-Silicon Steel as Interior Rotor for High-Speed Motor Considering the Influence of Multi-Physical Field Coupling and Slotting Process
Authors: Ma Deji , Tian Baozhi , Zheng Xuejie , Li Yulin , Xu Shibo , Pei Ruilin
Published: November 2022

Currently, high-speed motors usually adopt rotor structures with surface-mounted permanent magnets, but their sheaths will deteriorate performance significantly. The motor with interior rotor structure has the advantages of high power density and efficiency. At the same time, high silicon steel has low loss and high mechanical strength, which is extremely suitable for high-speed motor rotor core material. Therefore, in this paper, the feasibility of using high silicon steel as the material of an interior rotor high-speed motor is investigated. Firstly, the magnetic properties of high silicon steel under multi-physical fields were tested and analyzed in comparison with conventional silicon steel. Meanwhile, an interior rotor structure of high-speed motor using high silicon steel as the rotor core is proposed, and its electromagnetic, mechanical, and thermal properties are simulated and evaluated. Then, the experimental comparative analysis was carried out in terms of the slotting process of the core, and the machining of the high silicon steel rotor core was successfully completed. Finally, the feasibility of the research idea was verified by the above theoretical analysis and experimental characterization.
Corrosion Behavior of High-Strength C71500 Copper-Nickel Alloy in Simulated Seawater with High Concentration of Sulfide
Authors: Gao Xin , Liu Ming
Published: November 2022

The corrosion behavior of high-strength C71500 copper-nickel alloy in high concentrations of sulfide-polluted seawater was studied by potentiodynamic polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), immersion testing, and combined with SEM, EDS, XPS, and XRD surface analysis methods. The results showed that the C71500 alloy shows activation polarization during the entire corrosion process, the corrosion rate is much higher (0.15 mm/a) at the initial stage of immersion, and the appearance of diffusion limitation by corrosion product formation was in line with the appearance of a Warburg element in the EIS fitting after 24 h of immersion. As the corrosion process progressed, the formed dark-brown corrosion product film had a certain protective effect preventing the alloy from corrosion, and the corrosion rate gradually decreased. After 168 h of immersion, the corrosion rate stabilized at about 0.09 mm/a. The alloy was uniformly corroded, and the corrosion products were mainly composed of Cu2S, CuS, Cu2(OH)3Cl, Mn2O3, Mn2O, MnS2, FeO(OH), etc. The content of Cu2S gradually increased with the extension of immersion time. The addition of S2− caused a large amount of dissolution of Fe and Ni, and prevented the simultaneous formation of a more protective Cu2O film, which promoted the corrosion process to some extent.
Influence of Plasma Treatment Parameters on the Structural-Phase Composition, Hardness, Moisture-Resistance, and Raman-Enhancement Properties of Nitrogen-Containing Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Muslimov Arsen E. , Gadzhiev Makhach Kh. , Kanevsky Vladimir M.
Published: November 2022

The paper shows, for the first time, the prospects of treatment with a quasi-equilibrium low-temperature nitrogen plasma in an open atmosphere for the formation of super-hard, super-hydrophobic TiN/TiO2 composite coatings with pronounced Raman-enhancement properties. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy, as well as the analysis of hardness and moisture-resistance properties, are used as analytical research methods. During plasma treatment of titanium films on sapphire with a mass average temperature of 4–6 kK, an X-ray amorphous hydrophilic titanium oxide film with a low nitrogen content is formed. The nitrogen content in titanium oxide films increases with increasing treatment temperature up to 6–7 kK. In this case, an X-ray amorphous hydrophobic film is formed. With a further increase in temperature to 7–10 kK, a TiN/TiO2 composite structure based on polycrystalline rutile is formed with increased hydrophobicity and pronounced Raman enhancement properties due to the effective excitation of surface plasmon polaritons. The presence of the crystalline phase increases the dephasing time, which determines the quality of the resonance and the achievable amplification of the electromagnetic field near the TiN inclusions. All treated films on sapphire have a super-hardness above 25 GPa (Vickers hardness test) due to high grain size, the presence of nitrogen-containing inclusions concentrated along grain boundaries, and compressive stresses.
The Role of Intermolecular Interaction on Aggregation-Induced Emission Phenomenon and OLED Performance
Authors: Filipek Patrycja , Karoń Krzysztof , Hellwig Hubert , Szłapa-Kula Agata , Filapek Michał
Published: November 2022

In this work, the role of intermolecular interaction on the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) phenomenon and organic light-emitting diodes’ (OLEDs) performance was investigated. During the research, a group of compounds consisting of the (-CH=C(CN)(COOR)) moiety with identical energy parameters was designed using the DFT approach and successfully synthesized. The optical, electrochemical, and aggregation-induced emission properties were studied. The aggregation-induced emission of compounds has been studied in the mixture of MeCN (as a good solvent) and water (as a poor solvent) with different water fractions ranging from 0% to 99%. Moreover, the time dependence on the AIE feature was also evaluated. Thanks to their molecular structures, almost identical behavior of these substances in dilute solutions was observed. For molecules that exhibit the strong AIE phenomenon, emission efficiency increases rapidly during aggregation. What is also very interesting is it has been shown that by introducing an appropriate substituent, one can control the degree of intermolecular interactions and “control” the length of the emitted wave. Finally, OLEDs were fabricated by the spin-coating/evaporation hybrid method. Devices showed green–blueish electroluminescence (CIE coordinates: 0.107, 0.165) with maximum luminance reaching 25 cd m−2 and EQE reaching 2%.
Sustainability Analysis of Processes to Recycle Discharged Lithium-Ion Batteries, Based on the ESCAPE Approach
Authors: Fahimi Ario , Zanoletti Alessandra , Cornelio Antonella , Mousa Elsayed , Ye Guozhu , Frontera Patrizia , Depero Laura Eleonora , Bontempi Elza
Published: November 2022

There are several recycling methods to treat discharged lithium-ion batteries, mostly based on pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical approaches. Some of them are promising, showing high recovery efficiency (over 90%) of strategic metals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. However, technological efficiency must also consider the processes sustainability in terms of environmental impact. In this study, some recycling processes of spent lithium-ion batteries were considered, and their sustainability was evaluated based on the ESCAPE “Evaluation of Sustainability of material substitution using CArbon footPrint by a simplifiEd approach” approach, which is a screening tool preliminary to the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The work specifically focuses on cobalt recovery comparing the sustainability of using inorganic or organic acid for the leaching of waste derived from lithium-ion batteries. Based on the possibility to compare different processes, for the first time, some considerations about technologies optimization have been done, allowing proposing strategies able to save chemicals. In addition, the energy mix of each country, to generate electricity has been considered, showing its influence on the sustainability evaluation. This allows distinguishing the countries using more low-carbon sources (nuclear and renewables) for a share of the electricity mix, where the recycling processes result more sustainable. Finally, this outcome is reflected by another indicator, the eco-cost from the virtual pollution model 99′ proposed by Vogtländer, which integrates the monetary estimation of carbon footprint.
Design and Synthesis of Novel Phenylahistin Derivatives Based on Co-Crystal Structures as Potent Microtubule Inhibitors for Anti-Cancer Therapy
Authors: Ding Zhongpeng , Li Feifei , Xie Lianghui , Gu Minqing , Li Chunlei , Liu Chang , Peng Chao , Li Wenbao
Published: November 2022

Phenylahistin is a naturally occurring marine product with a diketopiperazine structure that can bind to the colchicine site of microtubulin as a possible anticancer agent. To develop more potent microtubule inhibitors, novel phenylahistin derivatives were designed and synthesized based on the co-crystal complexes of phenylahistin derivatives and microtubulin. We established a focused library of imidazole-type molecules for the introduction of different groups to the C-ring and A-ring of phenylahistin. Structure–activity relationship studies indicated that appropriate hydrocarbon substituents and unsaturated alkenyl substituents at the 1-position of the imidazole group are important for improving the activity of such compounds. In addition, this study found that propylamine groups could maintain the activity of these compounds, as exemplified by compound 16d (IC50 = 5.38 nM, NCI-H460). Compound 15p (IC50 = 1.03 nM, NCI-H460) with an allyl group exhibited potent cytotoxic activity at the nanomolar level against human lung cancer cell lines. Immunofluorescence assay indicated that compound 15p could efficiently inhibited microtubule polymerization and induced a high expression of caspase-3. 15p also displayed good pharmacokinetic characteristics in vitro. Additionally, the growth of H22 transplanted tumors was significantly inhibited in BALB/c mice when 15p alone was administered at 4 mg/kg, and the tumor inhibition rate was as much as 65%. Importantly, the continuous administration of 15p resulted in a lower toxicity than that of docetaxel (10 mg/kg) and cyclophosphamide (20 mg/kg). Overall, the novel allyl-imidazole-diketopiperazine-type derivatives could be considered safe and effective potential agents for cancer treatment.
Guided-Motion Bicruciate-Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty Reproduces Native Medial Collateral Ligament Strain
Authors: Kwak Dai-Soon , Kim Yong Deok , Cho Nicole , Cho Ho-Jung , Ko Jaeryong , Kim Minji , Choi Jae Hyuk , Lim Dohyung , Koh In Jun
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Guided-motion bicruciate-stabilized (BCS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) includes a dual cam-post mechanism with an asymmetric bearing geometry that promotes normal knee kinematics and enhances anterior-posterior stability. However, it is unclear whether the improved biomechanics after guided-motion BCS TKA reproduce soft tissue strain similar to the strain generated by native knees. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to compare medial collateral ligament (MCL) strain between native and guided-motion BCS TKA knees using a video extensometer. Materials and Methods: Eight cadaver knees were mounted onto a customized knee squatting simulator to measure MCL strain during flexion in both native and guided-motion BCS TKA knees (Journey II-BCS; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA). MCL strain was measured using a video extensometer (Mercury® RT RealTime tracking system, Sobriety s.r.o, Kuřim, Czech Republic). MCL strain level and strain distribution during knee flexion were compared between the native and guided-motion BCS TKA conditions. Results: The mean and peak MCL strain were similar between native and guided-motion BCS TKA knees at all flexion angles (p > 0.1). MCL strain distribution was similar between native and BCS TKA knees at 8 of 9 regions of interest (ROIs), while higher MCL strain was observed after BCS TKA than in the native knee at 1 ROI in the mid portion of the MCL at early flexion angles (p < 0.05 at ≤30° of flexion). Conclusions: Guided-motion BCS TKA restored the amount and distribution of MCL strain to the values observed on native knees.
Fibrinogen-like Protein 1 as a Predictive Marker for the Incidence of Severe Acute Pancreatitis and Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis
Authors: Sui Yuhang , Zhao Zhongjie , Zhang Yang , Zhang Tao , Li Guanqun , Liu Liwei , Tan Hongtao , Sun Bei , Li Le
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is defined as an acute inflammatory disorder of the pancreas and is a common gastrointestinal disease. Since currently used indicators lack specifics and cannot accurately reflect the phase of disease, better diagnostic approaches need to be explored. Fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL-1) is a reactant in acute inflammatory diseases and is increased in the plasma of AP patients. In the current study, we aim to investigate the clinical benefits of FGL-1 in predicting the severity of AP and infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN), which can improve the diagnostic efficiency of AP. Materials and Methods: In this study, 63 patients diagnosed with AP from December 2018 to September 2019 were enrolled. Regarding the severity of AP, patients were separated into severe acute pancreatitis (SAP, n = 12) and No-SAP groups (n = 51). On the basis of infective conditions, patients were divided into IPN (n = 9) and No-IPN (n = 54) groups. The demographic data (sex and age) and blood parameters (WBC, HCT, glucose, calcium, FIB, APTT, PCT, CRP, and FGL-1) were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The plasma FGL-1 levels were increased in both SAP (p < 0.01) and IPN (p < 0.05) subgroups compared to the healthy control group. Multivariate analysis showed that elevated plasma FGL-1 (p < 0.01) and PCT levels (p < 0.05) within 72 h after the onset of AP were positively correlated with the severity of AP, while increased plasma FGL-1 (p < 0.01) and CRP (p < 0.05) levels were positively correlated with the occurrence of IPN. The combination of FGL-1 and PCT showed superiority to both individual markers in SAP prediction. However, the combination of FGL-1 and CRP showed no diagnostic advantage over CRP in IPN prediction. Conclusions: Plasma FGL-1 within 72 h after the onset could be used for the stratification of AP and its infectious complications. The combination of PCT and FGL-1 presents an enormous advantage for the early identification of SAP.
A Reduction of Calcineurin Inhibitors May Improve Survival in Patients with De Novo Colorectal Cancer after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Ossami Saidy Ramin Raul , Wegener Elisa , Uluk Deniz , Dittrich Luca , Schöning Wenzel , Lurje Georg , Öllinger Robert , Modest Dominik Paul , Tacke Frank , Haase Oliver , Pratschke Johann , Eurich Dennis
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: After liver transplantation (LT), long-term immunosuppression (IS) is essential. IS is associated with de novo malignancies, and the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increased in LT patients. We assessed course of disease in patients with de novo CRC after LT with focus of IS and impact on survival in a retrospective, single-center study. Materials and Methods: All patients diagnosed with CRC after LT between 1988 and 2019 were included. The management of IS regimen following diagnosis and the oncological treatment approach were analyzed: Kaplan–Meier analysis as well as univariate and multivariate analysis were performed. Results: A total of 33 out of 2744 patients were diagnosed with CRC after LT. Two groups were identified: patients with restrictive IS management undergoing dose reduction (RIM group, n = 20) and those with unaltered regimen (maintenance group, n = 13). The groups did not differ in clinical and oncological characteristics. Statistically significant improved survival was found in Kaplan–Meier analysis for patients in the RIM group with 83.46 (8.4–193.1) months in RIM and 24.8 (0.5–298.9) months in the maintenance group (log rank = 0.02) and showed a trend in multivariate cox regression (p = 0.054, HR = 14.3, CI = 0.96–213.67). Conclusions: Immunosuppressive therapy should be reduced further in patients suffering from CRC after LT in an individualized manner to enable optimal oncological therapy and enable improved survival.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Damping Capacity of AlxCoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloys Prepared by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Xiong Ke , Huang Lin , Wang Xiaofeng , Yu Lin , Feng Wei
Published: November 2022

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) of AlxCoCrFeNi (x = 0.2, 0.5, and 1) were created using the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method in conjunction with an aerosolized powder. Their microstructure and phase constituents were characterized by X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and projection electron microscopy. The tensile properties, hardness, compactness, and damping properties were also tested. The results showed that the crystal structure of AlxCoCrFeNi HEAs changed significantly with the Al content, from the original single face-centered cubic FCC phase (Al0.2CoCrFeNi) to an FCC + BCC + B2 structure (Al0.5CoCrFeNi), and then to FCC + BCC + B2 + Sigma (σ) phase structures (AlCoCrFeNi). Twin crystals with FCC structure were also observed in the TEM of AlCoCrFeNi. A chemical composition analysis showed that the crystal structure transformation was related to the segregation caused by the increase of Al element content. The hardness of the AlxCoCrFeNi HEAs increased with the Al content, and the hardness of AlCoCrFeNi reached the highest value of 585.4 HV. The tensile properties of the alloy showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing values with the increase in Al content. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation of the Al0.5CoCrFeNi alloy reached the highest values of 557.7 MPa, 954.4 MPa, and 32.2%, respectively. Moreover, the fracture mechanism of the Al0.2CoCrFeNi and Al0.5CoCrFeNi alloys was that of a typical ductile fracture, while for the AlCoCrFeNi alloy, it was that of a cleavage fracture. The compactness of the alloy increased with the Al content. The combination of the FCC + BCC + B2 phase resulted in the damping capacity of Al0.5CoCrFeNi alloy reaching 0.018 at the corresponding strain amplitude of 6 × 10−4.
Ubiquitin-Conjugating Enzymes Ubc1 and Ubc4 Mediate the Turnover of Hap4, a Master Regulator of Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Capps Denise , Hunter Arielle , Chiang Mengying , Pracheil Tammy , Liu Zhengchang
Published: November 2022

Mitochondrial biogenesis is tightly regulated in response to extracellular and intracellular signals, thereby adapting yeast cells to changes in their environment. The Hap2/3/4/5 complex is a master transcriptional regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis in yeast. Hap4 is the regulatory subunit of the complex and exhibits increased expression when the Hap2/3/4/5 complex is activated. In cells grown under glucose derepression conditions, both the HAP4 transcript level and Hap4 protein level are increased. As part of an inter-organellar signaling mechanism coordinating gene expression between the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, the activity of the Hap2/3/4/5 complex is reduced in respiratory-deficient cells, such as ρ0 cells lacking mitochondrial DNA, as a result of reduced Hap4 protein levels. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we show that reduced HAP4 expression in ρ0 cells is mediated through both transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. We show that loss of mitochondrial DNA increases the turnover of Hap4, which requires the 26S proteasome and ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes Ubc1 and Ubc4. Stabilization of Hap4 in the ubc1 ubc4 double mutant leads to increased expression of Hap2/3/4/5-target genes. Our results indicate that mitochondrial biogenesis in yeast is regulated by the functional state of mitochondria partly through ubiquitin/proteasome-dependent turnover of Hap4.
Incidence and Microbiology of Hospital-Acquired Infections in COVID-19 Patients between the First and the Second Outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Retrospective, Observational Study
Authors: Nicolò Corti , Federica Tordato , De Nadai Guendalina , Sarah Mapelli , Cecilia Garlanda , Daria Pocaterra , Maddalena Casana , Paolo Bonfanti , Paola Morelli
Published: November 2022

With almost 638 million cases and over 6 million deaths worldwide, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic represents an unprecedented healthcare challenge. Although the management and natural history of COVID-19 patients have changed after the introduction of active therapies and vaccination, the development of secondary infections complicates hospital stay. This is a single-center, retrospective, observational study that explores the incidence and microbiology of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in two subsequent populations of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Demographic, pre-hospitalization baseline characteristics, therapeutic options and microbiology data about secondary infections were collected for a total of 1153 cases. The second population appeared to have a higher median age (73 vs. 63 years, respectively), comorbidities (median Charlson Comorbidity Index Score was 4 vs. 1, respectively) and incidence of secondary infections (23.5% vs. 8.2%) with respect to the first. A higher incidence of multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs), including difficult-to-treat resistant (DTR) Pseudomonas, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), was also observed. Both patients’ characteristics and poor adherence to standard hygiene and infection control protocols may have contributed to the higher incidence of these events and may have impacted on the natural history of the disease. In-hospital mortality rates were similar, despite the introduction of active therapies against COVID-19 (24.7% vs. 23.5%, respectively). The incidence of HAIs may have contributed to the unchanged mortality and prompts for more effective antimicrobial stewardship and infection control procedures in COVID-19.
Application of a Hybrid Machine Learning Model for the Prediction of Compressive Strength and Elastic Modulus of Rocks
Authors: Jin Xiaoliang , Zhao Rui , Ma Yulin
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a machine learning-based approach to estimating the compressive strength and elastic modulus of rocks. A hybrid model, GWO-ELM, was built based on an extreme learning machine network optimized by the grey wolf algorithm. The proposed model was carried out on 101 experimental datasets, and four commonly used models were used as benchmarks to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed model. The results showed that the proposed hybrid model can accurately achieve the prediction of elastic modulus and compressive strength with high correlation coefficients and small prediction errors. The prediction performance of the hybrid model is significantly better than the other four original models, and it is an alternative model for predicting the compressive strength and elastic modulus of rocks, which is recommended as an auxiliary tool for real-time prediction of rock mechanical properties.
Research Progress on Small Molecular Inhibitors of the Type 3 Secretion System
Authors: Lv Chao , Li Ying , Wei Yuxia , Wang Jiayu , Yu Hui , Gao Feng , Zhu Chao , Jia Xiangdi , Tong Mingqiong , Dong Pingxuan , Gao Qianqian , Geng Longlong
Published: November 2022

The overuse of antibiotics has led to severe bacterial drug resistance. Blocking pathogen virulence devices is a highly effective approach to combating bacterial resistance worldwide. Type three secretion systems (T3SSs) are significant virulence factors in Gram-negative pathogens. Inhibition of these systems can effectively weaken infection whilst having no significant effect on bacterial growth. Therefore, T3SS inhibitors may be a powerful weapon against resistance in Gram-negative bacteria, and there has been increasing interest in the research and development of T3SS inhibitors. This review outlines several reported small-molecule inhibitors of the T3SS, covering those of synthetic and natural origin, including their sources, structures, and mechanisms of action.
Diet Supplementation with Polyphenol-Rich Salicornia ramosissima Extracts Protects against Tissue Damage in Experimental Models of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: García-Rodríguez Paula , Ma Feifei , Río Carmen del , Romero-Bernal Marina , Najar Ana M. , Cádiz-Gurrea María de la Luz , Leyva-Jimenez Francisco Javier , Ramiro Laura , Menéndez-Valladares Paloma , Pérez-Sánchez Soledad , Segura-Carretero Antonio , Montaner Joan
Published: November 2022

Strokes are the second most common cause of death worldwide and a leading cause of disability. Regular consumption of polyphenols has been shown to reduce the risk of suffering a cardiovascular event. For this reason, we have investigated the protective effect of Salicornia ramosissima, a seasonal halophyte that synthetizes high amounts of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, in response to environmental stress. Aqueous, hydroalcoholic, and ethanolic extracts were prepared to investigate if dietary supplementation prior to ischemic challenge can prevent subsequent damage using two animal models. First, we screened the protective effect against hypoxia–reoxygenation in Drosophila melanogaster and observed that both ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts protected flies from the deleterious effects of hypoxia. Second, we confirmed the protective effect of S. ramosissima ethanolic extract against brain ischemia using the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion mice model. Four weeks of oral supplementation with the ethanolic extract before artery occlusion reduced infarct volume and lowered the plasma levels of the DNA peroxidant product 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine. Phytochemical profiling of S. ramosissima ethanolic extract revealed 50 compounds. Thus, it represents a valuable source of bioactive compounds that show promising disease-modifying activities and could be further developed as an effective food supplement for the prevention or treatment of neurovascular disorders.
Investigating the Effects of a Multinutrient Supplement on Cognition, Mood and Biochemical Markers in Middle-Aged Adults with ‘Optimal’ and ‘Sub-Optimal’ Diets: A Randomized Double Blind Placebo Controlled Trial
Authors: Young Lauren M. , Gauci Sarah , Arnoldy Lizanne , Martin Laura , Perry Naomi , White David J. , Meyer Denny , Lassemillante Annie-Claude , Ogden Edward , Silber Beata , Scholey Andrew , Pipingas Andrew
Published: November 2022

Background: Previous randomized controlled trials examining cognitive and mood effects of combination multivitamin supplements in healthy, non-clinical adults have reported mixed results. One purported explanation for this is that the dietary status of participants at the start of supplement interventions may influence the magnitude of the effect of supplementation. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the effect of a multinutrient formula containing B group vitamins, Bacopa monniera and Ginkgo biloba on memory, attention, mood and biochemical markers of nutrient status in middle-aged adults (M = 52.84 years, n = 141) with ‘optimal’ and ‘sub-optimal’ diets over 12 weeks. We hypothesised that active supplementation would differentially improve memory and attention in those with a ‘sub-optimal’ diet. Results: Mixed model, repeated measures analysis revealed that, in comparison to placebo, active treatment was associated with significant increases in B vitamin status (B1, B6, B12). Regarding behavioural outcomes there was no significant benefit to memory (F(1, 113.51) = 0.53, p = 0.470) nor attention (F(1,113.77) = 1.89, p = 0.171) in the whole cohort. Contrary to our hypothesis, there was a significant beneficial effect of supplementation on attentional performance in individuals with an ‘optimal’ diet prior to supplementation (F(1,57.25) = 4.94, p = 0.030). In the absence of a main effect of supplementation across the entire cohort, there were also a number of significant three-way interactions (treatment by time by diet group) detected in secondary outcomes including lower state anxiety and mental fatigue in those with an ‘optimal’ diet. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the cognitive benefit of B vitamin and herbal supplementation may be dependent on diet quality, supporting the concepts of ‘co-nutrient optimisation’ and interdependency of nutrients. This warrants further investigation. This study advocates characterising the diet of participants prior to supplementation as it may influence the effect of a nutraceutical intervention.
Are Signals Regulating Energy Homeostasis Related to Neuropsychological and Clinical Features of Gambling Disorder? A Case–Control Study
Authors: Etxandi Mikel , Baenas Isabel , Mora-Maltas Bernat , Granero Roser , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Tovar Sulay , Solé-Morata Neus , Lucas Ignacio , Casado Sabela , Gómez-Peña Mónica , Moragas Laura , Pino-Gutiérrez Amparo del , Codina Ester , Valenciano-Mendoza Eduardo , Potenza Marc N. , Diéguez Carlos , Jiménez-Murcia Susana
Published: November 2022

Gambling disorder (GD) is a modestly prevalent and severe condition for which neurobiology is not yet fully understood. Although alterations in signals involved in energy homeostasis have been studied in substance use disorders, they have yet to be examined in detail in GD. The aims of the present study were to compare different endocrine and neuropsychological factors between individuals with GD and healthy controls (HC) and to explore endocrine interactions with neuropsychological and clinical variables. A case–control design was performed in 297 individuals with GD and 41 individuals without (healthy controls; HCs), assessed through a semi-structured clinical interview and a psychometric battery. For the evaluation of endocrine and anthropometric variables, 38 HCs were added to the 41 HCs initially evaluated. Individuals with GD presented higher fasting plasma ghrelin (p < 0.001) and lower LEAP2 and adiponectin concentrations (p < 0.001) than HCs, after adjusting for body mass index (BMI). The GD group reported higher cognitive impairment regarding cognitive flexibility and decision-making strategies, a worse psychological state, higher impulsivity levels, and a more dysfunctional personality profile. Despite failing to find significant associations between endocrine factors and either neuropsychological or clinical aspects in the GD group, some impaired cognitive dimensions (i.e., WAIS Vocabulary test and WCST Perseverative errors) and lower LEAP2 concentrations statistically predicted GD presence. The findings from the present study suggest that distinctive neuropsychological and endocrine dysfunctions may operate in individuals with GD and predict GD presence. Further exploration of endophenotypic vulnerability pathways in GD appear warranted, especially with respect to etiological and therapeutic potentials.
An Integrated Analytical Approach for the Characterization of Probiotic Strains in Food Supplements
Authors: Bolzon Veronica , Pesando Massimo , Bulfoni Michela , Nencioni Alessandro , Nencioni Emanuele
Published: November 2022

Research surrounding health benefits from probiotics is becoming popular because of the increasing demand for safer products with protective and therapeutic effects. Proven benefits are species- or genus-specific; however, no certified assays are available for their characterization and quantification at the strain level in the food supplement industry. The objective of this study was to develop a strain-specific Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR)-based method to be implemented in routine tests for the identification and quantification of Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium animalis spp. lactis, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium breve, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus helveticus, starting from a powder mixture of food supplements. The method optimization was carried out in combination with flow cytometry to compare results between the two strategies and implement the analytical workflow with the information also regarding cell viability. These assays were validated in accordance with the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) criteria using the plate count enumeration as the gold standard reference. Briefly, probiotic DNAs were extracted from two powder food supplements. Strain-specific primers targeting unique sequence regions of 16S RNA were identified and amplified by RT-qPCR. Primers were tested for specificity, sensitivity, and efficiency. Both RT-qPCR and flow-cytometry methods described in our work for the quantification and identification of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains were specific, sensitive, and precise, showing better performances with respect to the morphological colony identification. This work demonstrated that RT-qPCR can be implemented in the quality control workflow of commercial probiotic products giving more standardized and effective results regarding species discrimination.