bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the Genetic Links between Psychological Stress, Autophagy, and Dermatological Health: Insights from Bioinformatics, Single-Cell Analysis, and Machine Learning in Psoriasis and Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Liu Xiao-Ling , Chang Long-Sen
Published: May 2024

The relationship between psychological stress, altered skin immunity, and autophagy-related genes (ATGs) is currently unclear. Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammation of unclear etiology that is characterized by persistence and recurrence. Immune dysregulation and emotional disturbances are recognized as significant risk factors. Emerging clinical evidence suggests a possible connection between anxiety disorders, heightened immune system activation, and altered skin immunity, offering a fresh perspective on the initiation of psoriasis. The aim of this study was to explore the potential shared biological mechanisms underlying the comorbidity of psoriasis and anxiety disorders. Psoriasis and anxiety disorders data were obtained from the GEO database. A list of 3254 ATGs was obtained from the public database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by taking the intersection of DEGs between psoriasis and anxiety disorder samples and the list of ATGs. Five machine learning algorithms used screening hub genes. The ROC curve was performed to evaluate diagnostic performance. Then, GSEA, immune infiltration analysis, and network analysis were carried out. The Seurat and Monocle algorithms were used to depict T-cell evolution. Cellchat was used to infer the signaling pathway between keratinocytes and immune cells. Four key hub genes were identified as diagnostic genes related to psoriasis autophagy. Enrichment analysis showed that these genes are indeed related to T cells, autophagy, and immune regulation, and have good diagnostic efficacy validated. Using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, we expanded our understanding of key cellular participants, including inflammatory keratinocytes and their interactions with immune cells. We found that the CASP7 gene is involved in the T-cell development process, and correlated with γδ T cells, warranting further investigation. We found that anxiety disorders are related to increased autophagy regulation, immune dysregulation, and inflammatory response, and are reflected in the onset and exacerbation of skin inflammation. The hub gene is involved in the process of immune signaling and immune regulation. The CASP7 gene, which is related with the development and differentiation of T cells, deserves further study. Potential biomarkers between psoriasis and anxiety disorders were identified, which are expected to aid in the prediction of disease diagnosis and the development of personalized treatments.
Effect of Curcumin on Hepatic mRNA and lncRNA Co-Expression in Heat-Stressed Laying Hens
Authors: Wu Xinyue , Du Xubin , Pian Huifang , Yu Debing
Published: May 2024

Heat stress is an important factor affecting poultry production; birds have a range of inflammatory reactions under high-temperature environments. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect of dietary curcumin supplementation on the liver transcriptome of laying hens under heat stress conditions. In the animal experiment, a total of 240 Hy-Line brown hens aged 280 days were divided randomly into four different experimental diets with four replicates, and each replicate consisted of 15 hens during a 42-D experiment. The ambient temperature was adjusted to 34 ± 2 °C for 8 h per day, transiting to a range of 22 °C to 28 °C for the remaining 16 h. In the previous study of our lab, it was found that supplemental 150 mg/kg curcumin can improve production performance, antioxidant enzyme activity, and immune function in laying hens under heat stress. To further investigate the regulatory mechanism of curcumin on heat stress-related genes, in total, six samples of three liver tissues from each of 0 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg curcumin test groups were collected for RNA-seq analysis. In the transcriptome analysis, we reported for the first time that the genes related to heat stress of mRNA, such as HSPA8, HSPH1, HSPA2, and DNAJA4, were co-expressed with lncRNA such as XLOC010450, XLOC037987, XLOC053511, XLOC061207, and XLOC100318, and all of these genes are shown to be down-regulated. These findings provide a scientific basis for the possible benefits of dietary curcumin addition in heat-stressed laying hens.
Promising Role of Alkaloids in the Prevention and Treatment of Thyroid Cancer and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Comprehensive Review of the Current Evidence
Authors: Di Dalmazi Giulia , Giuliani Cesidio , Bucci Ines , Mascitti Marco , Napolitano Giorgio
Published: May 2024

Thyroid cancer (TC) and thyroid autoimmune disorders (AITD) are among the most common diseases in the general population, with higher incidence in women. Chronic inflammation and autoimmunity play a pivotal role in carcinogenesis. Some studies, indeed, have pointed out the presence of AITD as a risk factor for TC, although this issue remains controversial. Prevention of autoimmune disease and cancer is the ultimate goal for clinicians and scientists, but it is not always feasible. Thus, new treatments, that overcome the current barriers to prevention and treatment of TC and AITD are needed. Alkaloids are secondary plant metabolites endowed with several biological activities including anticancer and immunomodulatory properties. In this perspective, alkaloids may represent a promising source of prophylactic and therapeutic agents for TC and AITD. This review encompasses the current published literature on alkaloids effects on TC and AITD, with a specific focus on the pathways involved in TC and AITD development and progression.
Protopine and Allocryptopine Interactions with Plasma Proteins
Authors: Marciniak Aleksandra , Kotynia Aleksandra , Krzyżak Edward , Czyżnikowska Żaneta , Zielińska Sylwia , Kozłowska Weronika , Białas Marcel , Matkowski Adam , Jezierska-Domaradzka Anna
Published: May 2024

A comprehensive study of the interactions of human serum albumin (HSA) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (AAG) with two isoquinoline alkaloids, i.e., allocryptopine (ACP) and protopine (PP), was performed. The UV-Vis spectroscopy, molecular docking, competitive binding assays, and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy were used for the investigations. The results showed that ACP and PP form spontaneous and stable complexes with HSA and AAG, with ACP displaying a stronger affinity towards both proteins. Molecular docking studies revealed the preferential binding of ACP and PP to specific sites within HSA, with site 2 (IIIA) being identified as the favored location for both alkaloids. This was supported by competitive binding assays using markers specific to HSA’s drug binding sites. Similarly, for AAG, a decrease in fluorescence intensity upon addition of the alkaloids to AAG/quinaldine red (QR) complexes indicated the replacement of the marker by the alkaloids, with ACP showing a greater extent of replacement than PP. CD spectroscopy showed that the proteins’ structures remained largely unchanged, suggesting that the formation of complexes did not significantly perturb the overall spatial configuration of these macromolecules. These findings are crucial for advancing the knowledge on the natural product–protein interactions and the future design of isoquinoline alkaloid-based therapeutics.
ADPN Regulates Oxidative Stress-Induced Follicular Atresia in Geese by Modulating Granulosa Cell Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Zheng Yan , Qiu Yunqiao , Wang Qianhui , Gao Ming , Cao Zhongzan , Luan Xinhong
Published: May 2024

Geese are susceptible to oxidative stress during reproduction, which can lead to follicular atresia and impact egg production. Follicular atresia is directly triggered by the apoptosis and autophagy of granulosa cells (GCs). Adiponectin (ADPN), which is secreted by adipose tissue, has good antioxidant and anti-apoptotic capacity, but its role in regulating the apoptosis of GCs in geese is unclear. To investigate this, this study examined the levels of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy in follicular tissues and GCs using RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, transcriptomics and other methods. Atretic follicles exhibited high levels of oxidative stress and apoptosis, and autophagic flux was obstructed. Stimulating GCs with H2O2 produced results similar to those of atretic follicles. The effects of ADPN overexpression and knockdown on oxidative stress, apoptosis and autophagy in GCs were investigated. ADPN was found to modulate autophagy and reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis in GCs, in addition to protecting them from H2O2-induced damage. These results may provide a reasonable reference for improving egg-laying performance of geese.
In Vitro Digestion of Polyphenolic Compounds and the Antioxidant Activity of Acorn Flour and Pasta Enriched with Acorn Flour
Authors: Kasprzak-Drozd Kamila , Mołdoch Jarosław , Gancarz Marek , Wójtowicz Agnieszka , Kowalska Iwona , Oniszczuk Tomasz , Oniszczuk Anna
Published: May 2024

Acorn flour is a rich source of nutrients and is beneficial to human health due to, among other things, its low glycemic index and polyphenol content. In order to obtain more accurate data on the levels and activities of the substances tested after ingestion and digestion, it may be beneficial to use a simulated in vitro digestion method. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to elucidate the content of polyphenols, individual phenolic acids, flavonoids and antiradical properties of acorn flour and pasta enriched with acorn flour before and after simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The results indicate that the total polyphenol content (TPC), flavonoid content and radical scavenging activity exhibited an increasing trend following the initial digestion stage and a decreasing trend following the second stage. Nevertheless, the levels of phenolic acids demonstrated an increase in both digestion phases. The digestion processes of polyphenols in acorn flour differ significantly from those in pasta. In the case of pasta, total polyphenols, phenolic acids and flavonoids, as well as free radical scavenging properties, demonstrated a decreasing trend following each digestion stage.
Two Enterococcus faecium Isolates Demonstrated Modulating Effects on the Dysbiosis of Mice Gut Microbiota Induced by Antibiotic Treatment
Authors: Yao Xiaohui , Nie Wansen , Chen Xi , Zhang Junjie , Wei Jianchao , Qiu Yafeng , Liu Ke , Shao Donghua , Liu Haixia , Ma Zhiyong , Li Zongjie , Li Beibei
Published: May 2024

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are frequently used to treat bacteria-induced infections, but the overuse of antibiotics may induce the gut microbiota dysbiosis and disrupt gastrointestinal tract function. Probiotics can be applied to restore disturbed gut microbiota and repair abnormal intestinal metabolism. In the present study, two strains of Enterococcus faecium (named DC-K7 and DC-K9) were isolated and characterized from the fecal samples of infant dogs. The genomic features of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were analyzed, the carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme)-encoding genes were predicted, and their abilities to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were investigated. The bacteriocin-encoding genes in the genome sequences of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were analyzed, and the gene cluster of Enterolysin-A, which encoded a 401-amino-acid peptide, was predicted. Moreover, the modulating effects of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 on the gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by antibiotics were analyzed. The current results demonstrated that oral administrations of E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 could enhance the relative abundances of beneficial microbes and decrease the relative abundances of harmful microbes. Therefore, the isolated E. faecium DC-K7 and DC-K9 were proven to be able to alter the gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by antibiotic treatment.
Microbial Detoxification of Sediments Underpins Persistence of Zostera marina Meadows
Authors: Nakashima Yuki , Sonobe Takumi , Hanada Masashi , Kitano Goushi , Sonoyama Yoshimitsu , Iwai Katsumi , Kimura Takashi , Kusube Masataka
Published: May 2024

Eelgrass meadows have attracted much attention not only for their ability to maintain marine ecosystems as feeding grounds for marine organisms but also for their potential to store atmospheric and dissolved CO2 as blue carbon. This study comprehensively evaluated the bacterial and chemical data obtained from eelgrass sediments of different scales along the Japanese coast to investigate the effect on the acclimatization of eelgrass. Regardless of the eelgrass habitat, approximately 1% Anaerolineales, Babeliales, Cytophagales, and Phycisphaerales was present in the bottom sediment. Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) were present at 3.69% in eelgrass sediment compared to 1.70% in bare sediment. Sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) were present at 2.81% and 1.10% in the eelgrass and bare sediment, respectively. Bacterial composition analysis and linear discriminant analysis revealed that SOB detoxified H2S in the eelgrass meadows and that the larger-scale eelgrass meadows had a higher diversity of SOB. Our result indicated that there were regional differences in the system that detoxifies H2S in eelgrass meadows, either microbial oxidation mediated by SOB or O2 permeation via the physical diffusion of benthos. However, since bacterial flora and phylogenetic analyses cannot show bias and/or causality due to PCR, future kinetic studies on microbial metabolism are expected.
Defining the Minimal Long-Term Follow-Up Data Elements for Newborn Screening
Authors: Kellar-Guenther Yvonne , Barringer Lauren , Raboin Katherine , Nichols Ginger , Chou Kathy Y. F. , Nguyen Kathy , Burke Amy R. , Fawbush Sandy , Meyer Joyal B. , Dorsey Morna , Brower Amy , Chan Kee , Lietsch Mei , Taylor Jennifer , Caggana Michele , Sontag Marci K.
Published: May 2024

Newborn screening (NBS) is hailed as a public health success, but little is known about the long-term outcomes following a positive newborn screen. There has been difficulty gathering long-term follow-up (LTFU) data consistently, reliably, and with minimal effort. Six programs developed and tested a core set of minimal LTFU data elements. After an iterative data collection process and the development of a data collection tool, the group agreed on the minimal LTFU data elements. The denominator captured all infants with an NBS diagnosis, accounting for children who moved or died prior to the follow-up year. They also agreed on three LTFU outcomes: if the child was still alive, had contact with a specialist, and received appropriate care specific to their diagnosis within the year. The six programs representing NBS public health programs, clinical providers, and research programs provided data across multiple NBS disorders. In 2022, 83.8% (563/672) of the children identified by the LTFU programs were alive and living in the jurisdiction; of those, 92.0% (518/563) saw a specialist, and 87.7% (494/563) received appropriate care. The core LTFU data elements can be applied as a foundation to address the impact of early diagnosis by NBS within and across jurisdictions.
Fuzzy Classification Approach to Select Learning Objects Based on Learning Styles in Intelligent E-Learning Systems
Authors: Azzi Ibtissam , Radouane Abdelhay , Laaouina Loubna , Jeghal Adil , Yahyaouy Ali , Tairi Hamid
Published: May 2024

In e-learning systems, even though the automatic detection of learning styles is considered the key element in the adaptation process, it does not represent the main goal of this process at all. Indeed, to accomplish the task of adaptation, it is also necessary to be able to automatically select the learning objects according to the detected styles. The classification techniques are the most used techniques to automatically select the learning objects by processing data derived from learning object metadata. By using these classification techniques, considerable results are obtained via several approaches and consist of mapping the learning objects into different teaching strategies and then mapping these strategies into the identified learning styles. However, these approaches have some limitations related to robustness. Indeed, a common feature of these approaches is that they do not directly map learning object metadata elements to learning style dimensions. Moreover, they do not consider the fuzzy nature of learning objects. Indeed, any learning object can be suitable for different learning styles at varying degrees of suitability. This highlights the need to find a way to remedy this shortcoming. Our work is part of the automatic selection of learning objects. So, we will propose an approach that uses the fuzzy classification technique to select learning objects based on learning styles. In this approach, the metadata of each learning object that complies with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard are stored in a database as an Extensible Markup Language (XML) file. The Fuzzy C Means algorithm is used, on one hand, to assign fuzzy suitability rates to the stored learning objects and, on the other hand, to cluster them into the Felder and Silverman learning styles model categories. The experiment results show the performance of our approach.
Revision of the Genus Rhagastis Rothschild & Jordan, 1903 (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) from China, Based on Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses
Authors: Jiang Zhuo-Heng , Wang Jia-Xin , Xu Zhen-Bang , Kitching Ian J. , Huang Chia-Lung , Hu Shao-Ji , Xiao Yun-Li
Published: May 2024

Here, the taxonomy of the genus Rhagastis Rothschild & Jordan, 1903 (Lepidoptera, Sphingidae, Macroglossinae, Macroglossini) from China is revised based on differences in wing morphology, male and female genitalia, and the phylogenetic relationship of the DNA barcodes. Subspecies of Rhagastis albomarginatus (Rothschild, 1894) and R. castor (Walker, 1856) are treated as “good” species, namely Rhagastis dichroae Mell, 1922 stat. nov.; R. everetti Rothschild & Jordan, 1903 stat. nov.; R. aurifera (Butler, 1875) stat. rev.; R. chinensis Mell, 1922 stat. nov.; R. formosana Clark, 1925 stat. nov.; and R. jordani Oberthür, 1904 stat. rev. The distribution maps, biological notes, and ecological records of the genus Rhagastis Rothschild & Jordan, 1903 from China are given, and a species inventory of genus Rhagastis in the world is also included.
Systematic Opportunity Scan of Energy Recovery Technologies Applied to Trucks with Electric Refrigerated Units
Authors: de Carvalho Áquila Chagas , Miranda Matheus Henrique Rodrigues , Silva Ludmila Corrêa de Alkmin e , Silva Fabrício Leonardo , Kawano Rafael Rogora , Eckert Jony Javorski , Dedini Franco Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

This article presents an original research methodology that combines insights from patents and academic research, offering a unique perspective on energy recovery technologies for trucks equipped with refrigeration units. The purpose of the study is to perform a functional analysis of existing solutions and to suggest a mechanism for exposing unexplored areas and opportunities for innovation. To achieve this goal, a systematic opportunity scan is presented, investigating patents and conducting a state-of-the-art search of existing technologies. This scan classifies a diverse range of solutions, elucidating their interconnections and providing an overview of the existing technological area, covering system components and technical trends. Thus, the main functions and components are listed, as well as the system requirements. Once the functions have been surveyed, a morphological matrix is proposed, and five main functions are analyzed. This methodology makes it possible to list the majority of the possible solutions for the functions analyzed, taking into account the components observed in the literature review and patents, including new components raised by the research group. Finally, with the morphological matrix structure, it was possible to combine unexplored elements, achieving innovative solutions.
Effects of Water-Based Exercise on Patients Older than 60 Years Undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation after Coronary Intervention
Authors: Ksela Jus , Kafol Jan , Vasic Danijela , Jug Borut
Published: May 2024

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) plays a crucial role in managing patients who have undergone coronary intervention (CI) following acute myocardial infarction. While water-based exercise is gaining recognition as an exercise modality in this patient population, its impact on the subgroup of older adults remains unexplored. In this post hoc analysis, we investigated the effects of water-based exercise on adults older than 60 years undergoing CR after CI, comparing it to land-based exercise and a control group. In total, 45 patients aged over 60 participated in 14-day exercise programs, featuring two daily 30-min sessions. We assessed exercise capacity (VO2peak), vascular function (flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD)), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood markers (Interleukins 6, 8, and 10, P-Selectin, ICAM, and High-sensitivity CRP) before and after CR. VO2peak in the water-based group improved significantly after CR in comparison with the land-based group: 1.35 kg/mL/min (95% CI [0.20–2.50], p = 0.022). The significant difference between water-based and land-based groups was observed in several HRV parameters: Total power −1129.20 ms2 (95% CI [−1951.92–−306.49], p = 0.008); peak LF 0.04 Hz (95% CI [0.00–0.08], p = 0.036); SD1 −9.02 millisecond (95% CI [−16.86–−1.18], p = 0.025); and SD2 −19.71 ms (95% CI [−35.08–−4.34], p = 0.013). FMD and blood markers did not vary significantly based on the exercise group. These findings suggest that short-term water-based CR may have potential as an alternative to traditional land-based CR, improving VO2peak and cardiorespiratory fitness among adults over 60 years undergoing CR after CI.
Paul Glaucoma Implant following Congenital Cataract Surgery in a Pediatric Cohort
Authors: Mendoza-Moreira Angi Lizbeth , Voigt Anna Maria , Stingl Julia V. , Rezapour Jasmin , Wagner Felix Mathias , Schuster Alexander K. , Hoffmann Esther M.
Published: May 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term efficacy and safety of the Paul Glaucoma Implant (PGI) in pediatric eyes diagnosed with glaucoma following congenital cataract surgery (GFCS). Methods: A retrospective, single-center, descriptive study was conducted on consecutive children diagnosed with GFCS who underwent PGI implantation between July 2022 and November 2023 at the University Medical Center Mainz. The primary outcome measure was the reduction in IOP at the last follow-up visit. Results: Ten eyes of nine children were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was 7.70 ± 4.22 months (4.68–10.72 months). At the end of the study follow-up, the mean (95% CI) reduction in IOP was −14.8 ± 8.73 mmHg (−8.56 to −21.04 mmHg, p < 0.001). At the last follow-up, 30.0% (3/10) of patients achieved an IOP (intraocular pressure) of ≥6 and ≤21 mmHg with a reduction in IOP of ≥25% without treatment, while 90.0% (9/10) achieved this target IOP regardless of glaucoma medication treatment. The mean number of antiglaucoma medications was significantly reduced from 3.50 (IQR = 1) to 2.0 (IQR = 2, p = 0.01), and the visual acuity logMAR improved from 1.26 ± 0.62 to 1.03 ± 0.48 (p = 0.04). Only one eye experienced numerical hypotony (4 mmHg) without choroidal detachment or anterior chamber shallowing within the first 24 h. No other adverse events were observed during the follow-up period. Conclusions: PGI implantation significantly lowered IOP and the number of antiglaucoma eye drops with a favorable safety profile in children diagnosed with GFCS, thereby achieving a high rate of qualified surgical success in the short term.
Application and Future Utilization of Shellac in Orthodontics: A Systematic Review
Authors: Baxmann Martin , Baráth Zoltán , Kárpáti Krisztina
Published: May 2024

Background: This review examines the application of shellac in orthodontics, focusing on its properties, advantages, and potential as an alternative to conventional materials. In orthodontics, where bond strength, ease of application, and removal are paramount, shellac’s capabilities meet these needs while supporting environmentally friendly practices. Methods: With objectives centered on evaluating shellac’s effectiveness, biocompatibility, and impact on patient outcomes, a comprehensive search across multiple databases was conducted, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. This study’s selection criteria targeted studies assessing shellac’s use in orthodontic applications, measuring treatment effectiveness, biocompatibility, and patient satisfaction while excluding those not directly involving orthodontic applications or lacking empirical data. Results: Through a qualitative synthesis of the extracted data—encompassing study design, sample size, treatment outcomes, and adverse effects—the findings reveal shellac’s potential benefits in orthodontics, such as enhanced patient comfort and comparable treatment outcomes to traditional materials. However, the review also notes variability in study designs and outcomes, indicating the need for further research. Conclusions: This study concluded that shellac presents a promising alternative in orthodontic materials, recommending additional studies to standardize assessment methodologies and confirm its long-term advantages.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention versus Optimal Medical Therapy in Patients with Chronic Total Occlusion: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Macherey-Meyer Sascha , Salem Khalid , Heyne Sebastian , Meertens Max Maria , Finke Karl , Mauri Victor , Baldus Stephan , Adler Christoph , Lee Samuel
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Chronic total occlusion (CTO) is a prevalent finding in patients with coronary artery disease and is associated with increased mortality. Prior reports on the efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared to optimal medical therapy (OMT) were controversial. Following the emergence of recently published new evidence, a meta-analysis is warranted. The current meta-analysis assessed the effects of PCI compared to OMT in the treatment of CTO. Methods: A structured literature search was performed. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled studies of interventions were eligible. The primary outcome was an accumulated composite of cardiac mortality, myocardial infarction and target vessel/lesion revascularization events. Results: Thirty-two studies reporting on 11260 patients were included. Of these, 5712 (50.7%) were assigned to the PCI and 5548 (49.3%) were allocated to the OMT group. The primary outcome occurred in 14.6% of the PCI and 20.1% of the OMT group (12 trials, OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.88, p = 0.005, I2 = 67%). Subgrouping demonstrated a consistent reduction in the primary outcome for the PCI group in RCTs (six trials, OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.99, p = 0.05). The primary outcome reduction was irrespective of the study design, and it was replicable in sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Advantages in other outcomes were rather related to statistical pooling effects and dominated by observational data. Conclusions: CTO-PCI was associated with improved patient-oriented primary outcome compared to OMT in a study-level meta-analysis. This composite outcome effect was mainly driven by target vessel treatment, but a significant reduction in mortality and myocardial infarction was observed, irrespectively. These findings have hypothesis-generating implications. Future RCTs with adequate statistical power are eagerly awaited.
Positive Effects of a Resveratrol-Based Nutraceutical in Association with Surgical Scleroembolization: A Pilot Retrospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Italiano Emilio , Ceccarelli Giada , Italiano Giovanna , Piazza Fulvio , Iannitti Rossana Giulietta , Puglisi Tiziana
Published: May 2024

Background: Varicocele still today represents a common cause of infertility in young men. The treatment strategy remains a surgical approach such as scleroembolization; however, the complete restoration of spermatic parameters afterward requires an average of six or more months to fully regain optimal seminal parameters. Recently, many studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of Resveratrol in male fertility, given its potential anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and mitochondrial effects. Therefore, Resveratrol-based nutraceuticals could be promising as an adjuvant to mitigate subfertility in patients with varicocele. Methods: In the present study, we retrospectively analyzed the effects of the administration of a Resveratrol-based nutraceutical after the scleroembolization procedure. The improvement of sperm quality in terms of number, motility, and morphology were considered to be the study’s main endpoints. A spreadsheet program was used for data analysis, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: We found a statistically significant improvement in the spermatic parameters (sperm count and total motility) and an increase in normal sperm after only 4 months of treatment. The supplementation with a Resveratrol-based nutraceutical associated with the surgical procedure showed encouraging results if compared to data from a control group and the results reported in the literature linked to scleroembolization practice alone. In fact, there was a clear improvement in the seminal parameters at 4 months. Conclusions: This suggests the positive impact of the Resveratrol-based nutraceutical in synergizing with scleroembolization in reducing the time needed to fully recover sperm function.
Carbon vs. Titanium Nails in the Treatment of Impending and Pathological Fractures: A Literature Review
Authors: Pesare Elisa , Meschini Cesare , Caredda Matteo , Messina Federica , Rovere Giuseppe , Solarino Giuseppe , Ziranu Antonio
Published: May 2024

Background: Long bones are commonly affected by musculoskeletal tumors, but they also represent one of the most frequent locations for metastases. The treatment is based on pain management and the prevention or stabilization of pathological fractures by intramedullary nailing. While titanium nails are probably the most used, carbon-fiber-reinforced (CFR) nails have emerged as a new option for oncological patients. The aim of this review is to compare titanium and CFR nails according to current findings. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) standards were followed: a total of 1004 articles were identified and 10 were included. Results: Traditionally, titanium implants are highly valued for their optimal biomechanical properties and ease of insertion, facilitated by their radiopacity. However, the use of titanium poses challenges in radiotherapy due to interference with radiation dosage and the creation of ferromagnetic artifacts. Conversely, CFR implants have emerged as a recommended option for intramedullary fixation, due to their biomechanical and structural properties and their benefits during radiotherapy and follow-up monitoring X-ray. Conclusions: CFR nailing represents a promising advancement in the surgical management of oncological patients with long bone metastases. However, further studies are needed to increase surgeons’ confidence in their use.
Performance of Risk Scores in Predicting Infective Endocarditis in Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteraemia in a Prospective Asian Cohort
Authors: Ngiam Jinghao Nicholas , Koh Matthew Chung Yi , Archuleta Sophia , Fisher Dale , Chai Louis Yi-Ann , Sia Ching-Hui , Kong William K. F. , Tambyah Paul Anantharajah
Published: May 2024

Background: Several risk scores have been derived to predict the risk of infective endocarditis (IE) amongst patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB), which helps to guide clinical management. Methods: We prospectively studied 634 patients admitted with SAB. The cohort was stratified into those with or without IE, and the PREDICT Day 1, Day 5 and VIRSTA scores were tabulated. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curves were constructed to compare the performance of each score. Results: Of the 634 patients examined, 36 (5.7%) had IE. These patients were younger (51.6 ± 20.1 vs. 59.2 ± 18.0 years, p = 0.015), tended to have community acquisition of bacteraemia (41.7% vs. 17.9%, p < 0.001), and had persistent bacteraemia beyond 72 h (19.4% vs. 6.0%, p = 0.002). The VIRSTA score had the best performance in predicting IE (AUC 0.76, 95%CI 0.66–0.86) compared with PREDICT Day 1 and Day 5. A VIRSTA score of <3 had the best negative predictive value (97.5%), compared with PREDICT Day 1 (<4) and Day 5 (<2) (94.3% and 96.6%, respectively). Conclusions: Overall, the risk scores performed well in our Asian cohort. If applied, 23.5% of the cohort with a VIRSTA ≥ 3 would require TEE, and a score of <3 had an excellent negative predictive value.
The Impact of Open versus Closed Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems on the Marginal Gap of Zirconia-Reinforced Lithium Silicate Single Crowns Evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy: A Comparative In Vitro Study
Authors: Shely Asaf , Nissan Joseph , Rosner Ofir , Zenziper Eran , Lugassy Diva , Abidulkrem Khadija , Ben-Izhack Gil
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to compare the impact of CAD/CAM closed systems and open systems on the marginal gap of monolithic zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) ceramic crowns, as both systems are used in everyday dentistry, both chair-side and laboratory. For the closed system, 20 plastic teeth were scanned by a Primescan intra-oral scanner (IOS), and for the open system, the same number of plastic teeth were scanned by Trios 4 IOS. For the closed system, CEREC software was used, and for the open system, EXOCAD software was used. All 40 ZLS crowns were grinded by the same four-axis machine and cemented with Temp-bond, followed by self-adhesive resin cement. For each type of cement, an evaluation of the marginal gap was conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Before comparisons between the groups, a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed on the study variables showing a normal distribution (p > 0.05). Independent T tests (α = 0.05) and paired-sample T tests (α = 0.05) were used. The independent T test found no significant mean marginal gap differences in the zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate crowns bonded with Temp-bond and scanned by Primescan (28.09 μm ± 3.06) compared to Trios 4 (28.94 μm ± 3.30) (p = 0.401), and there was no significant mean marginal gap differences in zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate crowns bonded with self-adhesive resin cement (Gcem ONE) and scanned by Primescan (46.70 μm ± 3.80) compared to Trios 4 (47.79 μm ± 2.59) (p = 0.295). Paired-sample T tests showed significantly higher mean marginal gaps with Gcem ONE compared to Temp-bond for the total mean marginal gap when scanning with Primescan (p = 0.0005) or Trios 4 (p = 0.0005). In everyday dentistry, both closed systems (Primescan with Cerec) and open systems (Trios 4 with Exocad) can be used to achieve an acceptable (<120 µm) marginal gap for ZLS CELTRA® DUO single crowns. There is a significant difference between cementation with Temp-bond and Gcem ONE self-adhesive resin cement (p < 0.05).
A Study on Powder Spreading Quality in Powder Bed Fusion Processes Using Discrete Element Method Simulation
Authors: Avrampos Panagiotis , Vosniakos George-Christopher
Published: May 2024

Powder deposition is a very important aspect of PBF-based additive manufacturing processes. Discrete Element Method (DEM) is commonly utilized by researchers to examine the physically complex aspects of powder-spreading methods. This work focuses on vibration-assisted doctor blade powder recoating. The aim of this work is to use experiment-verified DEM simulations in combination with Taguchi Design of Experiments (DoE) to identify optimum spreading parameters based on robust layer quality criteria. The verification of the used powder model is performed via angle of repose and angle of avalanche simulation–experiment cross-checking. Then, four criteria, namely layer thickness deviation, surface coverage ratio, surface root-mean-square roughness and true packing density, are defined. It has been proven that the doctor blade’s translational speed plays the most important role in defining the quality of the deposited layer. The true packing density was found to be unaffected by the spreading parameters. The vertical vibration of the doctor blade recoater was found to have a beneficial effect on the quality of the deposited layer. Ultimately, a weighted mean quality criteria analysis is mapped out. Skewness and kurtosis were proven to function as effective indicators of layer quality, showing a linear relation to the weighted means of the defined quality criteria. The specific weights that optimize this linearity were identified.
ETE-SRSP: An Enhanced Optimization of Tramp Ship Routing and Scheduling
Authors: Huang Xiaohu , Liu Yuhan , Sha Mei , Han Bing , Han Dezhi , Liu Han
Published: May 2024

In the contemporary tramp shipping industry, route optimization and scheduling are directly linked to enhancements in operations, economics, and the environment, making them key factors for the effective management of maritime transportation. To enhance effective ship-to-cargo matching and the refinement of maritime transportation itineraries, this paper introduces a time efficiency and carbon dioxide emission multi-objective optimization algorithm named ETE-SRSP (efficiency–time–emission multi-optimization algorithm). ETE-SRSP incorporates several factors, including the initial positions of ships, time windows for loading and unloading operations, and varying sailing speeds. Within the ETE-SRSP framework, pioneering an approach that integrates ballast and laden sailing velocities as decisional parameters, it employs a multi-objective optimization technique to investigate the intricate interplay between temporal efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, the model’s proficiency in mitigating emissions and managing costs is clearly demonstrated through the optimization of these objectives, thereby offering a robust framework for decision support. The experimental results show that the optimal sailing speeds derived from the ETE-SRSP, under typical time-weight scenarios, can achieve an optimal balance between emission reduction and cost control. In summary, this study underscores the optimization strategy’s potential to effectively address the maritime sector’s need for economic growth and ecological conservation, showcasing its practical value in the industry.
Incipient Motion of Single Shells under Currents in Flume Experiments
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Jiaxiang , Jiang Changbo , Wu Zhiyuan , Yao Zhen , Bian Cheng
Published: May 2024

Understanding the motion thresholds of shells is important, as shell motion allows the analysis of beach profiles, prevents excessive erosion of the coastline, and helps to resource the use of discarded shells, providing new ideas for the protection of beaches. In this study, the orientational motions and motion thresholds of two types of typical molluscan shells, bivalve and gastropod shells, were investigated by means of flume experiments. The final orientations with the statistically highest number of occurrences during the orientational motions of each shell were used as the initial orientations for the respective threshold flow velocity measurements. The critical Shields parameter and the incipient mean velocity of the flow were used to represent the critical threshold of the motion. The critical Shields parameters for bivalve shells in the convex upward position were overall higher on average than those for gastropod shells. The experimental data showed that the incipient mean flow velocities of bivalve shells in the convex upward position were about 1.4–2.8 times larger than those in the convex downward position. The incipient mean velocity data were regressed to obtain the motion threshold equations applicable to bivalve shells in the convex upward and convex downward positions as well as gastropod shells under different final orientations.
A Methodology to Evaluate the Real-Time Stability of Submarine Slopes under Rapid Sedimentation
Authors: Wang Zehao , Zheng Defeng , Gu Zhongde , Guo Xingsen , Nian Tingkai
Published: May 2024

Rapid sedimentation is widely recognized as a crucial factor in initiating the instability of submarine slopes. Once the slope fails, the subsequent landslide poses a significant threat to the safety of underwater infrastructures and potentially leads to severe damage to seabed pipelines, offshore foundations, and oil and gas exploitation wells. However, there is currently a lack of numerical methods to effectively assess the real-time stability of submarine slopes under rapid sedimentation. This study firstly employs a calibrated finite element (FE) model-change approach to reproduce the rapid sedimentation processes and proposes a concise method to calculate the safety factors for the real-time stability of sedimenting submarine slopes. Further, a parametric analysis is carried out to evaluate the effect of varying sedimentation rates on slope stability, and the critical sedimentation rate is numerically solved. Moreover, the effect of seismic events with different occurring times on the stability of rapidly sedimenting slopes is investigated in depth, and the most critical seismic loading pattern among various acceleration combinations is achieved. The results indicate that the presence of weak layers during sedimentation is a critical factor contributing to slope instability. The introduced rate of decrease in the safety factor proves valuable in assessing slope safety over a specific period. As the occurrence time of seismic events is delayed, the seismic resistance of the slope decreases, increasing the likelihood of shallower sliding surfaces. The findings offer insights into the mechanisms by which rapid sedimentation influences the stability of submarine slopes and provide valuable insights for predicting the potential instability of rapidly sedimenting slopes under specific seismic activity levels.
Research on Polar Operational Limit Assessment Risk Indexing System for Ships Operating in Seasonal Sea-Ice Covered Waters
Authors: Xu Jin , Xu Shuai , Ma Long , Qian Sihan , Li Xiaowen
Published: May 2024

The Polar Operational Limit Assessment Risk Indexing System (POLARIS) has been established as a viable framework for assessing operational capabilities and associated risks in polar waters. Despite its inherent suitability for high-latitude territories, ships navigating through seasonal ice-infested waters at lower latitudes also encounter critical safety, environmental, and economic issues exacerbated by the presence of ice. This necessitates a reliable and adaptable methodology that can serve as a reference for devising effective countermeasures. This study evaluated the use of POLARIS in the intricate ice conditions prevalent in the northern navigable waters (channels and anchorages) within Liaodong Bay of the Bohai Sea, located at relatively low latitudes. Using GF-4 satellite imagery, ice conditions were collected, and the POLARIS methodology was employed to calculate Risk Index Outcome (RIO) values for non-ice-strengthened vessels during the winter season of 2021–2022. The results showed that sectors 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11 within the northern part of Liaodong Bay exhibited a higher risk, with sectors 5 and 10 exhibiting the most significant risk, while sectors 1 and 2 demonstrated relatively lower risk levels. The concurrence of these findings with acknowledged ice patterns and local maritime practices confirms the applicability of the POLARIS methodology in saline, seasonally ice-covered seas. Notably, the combination of POLARIS with high-resolution satellite imagery facilitated a more precise and rapid assessment of ice risk, thereby enhancing situational awareness and informing decision-making processes in maritime operations under icy conditions. In addition, this study provides preliminary evidence that POLARIS is suitable for fine-scale scenarios, in addition to being applicable to sparse-scale scenarios, such as polar waters, especially with high-resolution ice data. At the same time, this study highlights the potential of POLARIS as a disaster prevention strategy and a tool for the maritime industry to address ice challenges.
Wake Structures and Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Flows around Two Near-Wall Cylinders in Tandem and Parallel Arrangements
Authors: Chang Xing , Yin Pandeng , Xin Jianjian , Shi Fulong , Wan Ling
Published: May 2024

To clarify the hydrodynamic interference characteristics of flows around multiple cylinders under the wall effect, the two-dimensional (2D) flows around the near-wall single, two tandem and parallel cylinders are simulated under different gap ratios (0.15 ≤ G/D ≤ 3.0) and spacing ratios (1.5 ≤ T/D ≤ 4.0) at a Reynolds number of Re = 6300. We also examine the wake patterns, the force coefficients, and the vortex-shedding frequency with emphases on the wall effect and effects of the two-cylinder interference. A critical wall gap of G/D = 0.6 is identified in the single-cylinder case where the wall can exert significant influences. The two near-wall tandem cylinders exhibit three wake states: stretching mode, attachment mode, and impinging mode. The force coefficients on the upstream cylinder are significantly affected by the wall for G/D ≤ 0.6. The downstream cylinder is mainly influenced by the upstream cylinder. For G/D > 0.6, the force coefficients on the two cylinders exhibit a similar variation trend. In the parallel arrangement, the two cylinders exhibit four wake states in different G/D and T/D ranges: double stretching mode, hetero-vortex scale mode, unilateral vortex mode, and free vortex mode. Moreover, the two parallel cylinders in the hetero-vortex scale or free vortex mode have two states: synchronous in-phase state and synchronous out-of-phase state. The mean drag coefficients on the two cylinders decrease, while the mean lift coefficients exhibit opposite variation trends, as the T/D grows.
A Review of Path Planning Methods for Marine Autonomous Surface Vehicles
Authors: Wu Yubing , Wang Tao , Liu Shuo
Published: May 2024

A marine autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) is a kind of autonomous marine robot with intelligent and flexible use advantages. They are mainly divided into two categories: unmanned vessels and unmanned sailboats. Marine ASVs are essential in marine science, industry, environmental protection, and national defense. One of the primary challenges faced by marine ASVs is autonomously planning paths in an intricate marine environment. Numerous research findings have surfaced in recent years, including the combination with popular machine learning. However, a systematic literature review is still lacking, primarily a comprehensive comparison of two types of ASV path planning methods. This review first introduces the problem and evaluation indicators of path planning for ASVs. Then, aiming at unmanned vessels and sailboats, respectively, it sorts out various path planning algorithms proposed in the existing literature, including the advantages and limitations of both kinds of ASVs, and discusses them in combination with evaluation indicators. Also, this paper explores how marine environmental factors affect path planning and its corresponding treatment methods. Finally, this review summarizes the challenges of unmanned ship path planning, proposes potential technical solutions and future development directions, and aims to provide references for further development in this field.