bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Intensity Laser Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Arroyo-Fernández Rubén , Aceituno-Gómez Javier , Serrano-Muñoz Diego , Avendaño-Coy Juan
Published: February 2023

High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) is one of the therapeutic approaches used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). The main objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of HILT for reducing pain and improving functionality in people with MSD. Ten databases were systematically searched for randomized trials published up to 28 February 2022. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of HILT on MSD were included. The main outcome measures were pain and functionality. In total, 48 RCTs were included in the qualitative synthesis and 44 RCTs in the quantitative analysis. HILT showed a decrease on the pain VAS (mean difference (MD) = −1.3 cm; confidence interval (CI) 95%: −1.6 to −1.0) and an improvement in functionality (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −1.0; CI95%: −1.4 to −0.7), with low and moderate quality of evidence, respectively. A greater effect was observed when compared with control than with other conservative treatments, both on pain (χ2 = 20.6; p < 0.001) and functionality (χ2 = 5.1; p = 0.02). Differences in the effectiveness of HILT were found depending on the location (χ2 = 40.1 p < 0.001), with further improved functionality in MSD of the knee and shoulder. HILT is an effective treatment for improving pain, functionality, range of motion, and quality of life in people with MSD, although these findings must be treated with caution due to the high risk of bias in the studies. Further clinical trials should be well designed to lower the risk of bias.
The Polish Society of Gynecological Oncology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometrial Carcinoma (2023)
Authors: Sznurkowski Jacek J. , Rys Janusz , Kowalik Artur , Zolciak-Siwinska Agnieszka , Bodnar Lubomir , Chudecka-Glaz Anita , Blecharz Pawel , Zielinska Aleksandra , Marszalek Andrzej , Bidzinski Mariusz , Sawicki Wlodzimierz
Published: February 2023

Background: Due to the increasing amount of published data suggesting that endometrial carcinoma is a heterogenic entity with possible different treatment sequences and post-treatment follow-up, the Polish Society of Gynecological Oncology (PSGO) has developed new guidelines. Aim: to summarize the current evidence for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of endometrial carcinoma and to provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice. Methods: The guidelines have been developed according to standards set by the guideline evaluation tool AGREE II (Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation). The strength of scientific evidence has been defined in agreement with The Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System (AOTMiT) guidelines for scientific evidence classification. The grades of recommendation have been based on the strength of evidence and the level of consensus of the PSGO development group. Conclusion: Based on current evidence, both the implementation of the molecular classification of endometrial cancer patients at the beginning of the treatment sequence and the extension of the final postoperative pathological report of additional biomarkers are needed to optimize and improve treatment results as well as to pave the route for future clinical trials on targeted therapies.
A Retrospective Medical Record Review of Adults with Non-Cancer Diagnoses Prescribed Medicinal Cannabis
Authors: Morris Michael , Chye Richard , Liu Zhixin , Agar Meera , Razmovski-Naumovski Valentina
Published: February 2023

Research describing patients using medicinal cannabis and its effectiveness is lacking. We aimed to describe adults with non-cancer diagnoses who are prescribed medicinal cannabis via a retrospective medical record review and assess its effectiveness and safety. From 157 Australian records, most were female (63.7%; mean age 63.0 years). Most patients had neurological (58.0%) or musculoskeletal (24.8%) conditions. Medicinal cannabis was perceived beneficial by 53.5% of patients. Mixed-effects modelling and post hoc multiple comparisons analysis showed significant changes overtime for pain, bowel problems, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, mood, quality of life (all p < 0.0001), breathing problems (p = 0.0035), and appetite (p = 0.0465) Symptom Assessment Scale scores. For the conditions, neuropathic pain/peripheral neuropathy had the highest rate of perceived benefit (66.6%), followed by Parkinson’s disease (60.9%), multiple sclerosis (60.0%), migraine (43.8%), chronic pain syndrome (42.1%), and spondylosis (40.0%). For the indications, medicinal cannabis had the greatest perceived effect on sleep (80.0%), followed by pain (51.5%), and muscle spasm (50%). Oral oil preparations of balanced delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol (average post-titration dose of 16.9 mg and 34.8 mg per day, respectively) were mainly prescribed. Somnolence was the most frequently reported side effect (21%). This study supports medicinal cannabis’ potential to safely treat non-cancer chronic conditions and indications.
Decoding Algorithms and HW Strategies to Mitigate Uncertainties in a PCM-Based Analog Encoder for Compressed Sensing
Authors: Paolino Carmine , Antolini Alessio , Zavalloni Francesco , Lico Andrea , Franchi Scarselli Eleonora , Mangia Mauro , Marchioni Alex , Pareschi Fabio , Setti Gianluca , Rovatti Riccardo , Luigi Torres Mattia , Carissimi Marcella , Pasotti Marco
Published: February 2023

Analog In-Memory computing (AIMC) is a novel paradigm looking for solutions to prevent the unnecessary transfer of data by distributing computation within memory elements. One such operation is matrix-vector multiplication (MVM), a workhorse of many fields ranging from linear regression to Deep Learning. The same concept can be readily applied to the encoding stage in Compressed Sensing (CS) systems, where an MVM operation maps input signals into compressed measurements. With a focus on an encoder built on top of a Phase-Change Memory (PCM) AIMC platform, the effects of device non-idealities, namely programming spread and drift over time, are observed in terms of the reconstruction quality obtained for synthetic signals, sparse in the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) domain. PCM devices are simulated using statistical models summarizing the properties experimentally observed in an AIMC prototype, designed in a 90 nm STMicroelectronics technology. Different families of decoders are tested, and tradeoffs in terms of encoding energy are analyzed. Furthermore, the benefits of a hardware drift compensation strategy are also observed, highlighting its necessity to prevent the need for a complete reprogramming of the entire analog array. The results show >30 dB average reconstruction quality for mid-range conductances and a suitably selected decoder right after programming. Additionally, the hardware drift compensation strategy enables robust performance even when different drift conditions are tested.
Seabed Dynamic Responses Induced by Nonlinear Internal Waves: New Insights and Future Directions
Authors: Chen Tian , Li Zhenghui , Nai Hui , Liu Hanlu , Shan Hongxian , Jia Yonggang
Published: February 2023

Strong nonlinear internal waves generate a significant pressure force on the seafloor and induce a pore-pressure response penetrated in the seabed and are thus an important driver of sediment resuspension and a potential trigger of seabed failure. The following provides an overview of the seabed responses induced by nonlinear internal waves and the theory, models, and limited observations that have provided our present knowledge. The pressure disturbance is generated by the combined effect of interface displacement and near-bottom acceleration by the nonlinear internal waves. Recent observations in the South China Sea have shown that the pressure magnitudes up to 4 kPa, which is the largest known disturbance. Intense pore-pressure changes in roughly the top 1 m of the weakly conductive seabed are expected during the shoaling and breaking of the nonlinear internal waves and lead to 2 cm sediments of the local seabed appearing in transient liquefaction. Since the fluid seepage reduces the specific weight of the bed, results show that the contribution of vertical seepage on sediment resuspension is estimated at 11% for a seabed saturation of 0.97. Finally, in situ observations are needed to confirm theoretical knowledge and to help improve our ability to model the multiscale interaction process between the seabed and internal waves in the future.
Differing Responses of Three Scleractinian Corals from Phuket Coast in the Andaman Sea to Experimental Warming and Hypoxia
Authors: Jain Tarun , Buapet Pimchanok , Ying Long , Yucharoen Mathinee
Published: February 2023

An unprecedented decline in the diversity and health of coral reefs is occurring around the world as they are threatened by multiple global and local stressors. Rising seawater temperature and low dissolved oxygen (DO) conditions are expected to intensify as a result of climate change. Understanding the responses of corals to these stressors is necessary for making predictions and devising mitigation strategies. The three coral species—Porites lutea, Montipora tuberculosa, and Pocillopora verrucosa—were sampled from Patong Bay, Phuket, Thailand, as representatives of different coral morphologies. Coral nubbins were subjected to experimental investigation under ambient conditions (29 °C, DO > 6 mgL−1), heat stress (32 °C), hypoxia (DO < 2 mgL−1), and heat stress + hypoxia treatments. Photosynthetic performance indicators Fv/Fm and Fv/F0 and physiological parameters Symbiodiniaceae density, pigment concentration, and growth rate were quantified. We found P. verrucosa (branching) to be the most sensitive and severely affected by heat stress or hypoxia, more so than P. lutea (massive) and M. tuberculosa (tabular). The combination of these stressors had less impact on these species, except for a decline in growth rate of M. tuberculosa. This study also suggests that the corals respond differently to high temperature and low oxygen, with their sensitivity depending on species. These responses, however, may differ according to the lighting, especially in hypoxic conditions. The results fill a research gap to help predict the vulnerability of these three coral species in shallow reef habitats under climate change scenarios.
Global Structural Behavior and Leg Strength for Jack-Up Rigs with Varying Environmental Parameters
Authors: Yi Myung-Su , Park Joo-Shin
Published: February 2023

In the mobile jack-up unit, the leg supporting the hull is a very important structure, and it is important to closely examine the changes in accident load, environmental load, and seabed ground during jack-up operation. Generally, jack-up rigs are three-legged structures with a triangular hull that comprises several movable legs used to raise the hull above the sea surface. They can be operated in shallow water at less than 120 m, while large jack-up rigs, which have a structure that can withstand severe environmental loads, can be employed at depths ranging from 150 m to 200 m. However, a complex process is required to finalize the structural design of a jack-up rig, and the influence of various parameters must be comprehensively considered. In other words, the rig will encounter variable environmental conditions with variations in parameters such as wave height, wave period, wind speed, air gap, and so on. A unified procedure is proposed to review the structural strength of legs, hulls, and cantilevers, and different models and analyses can be configured so that it can be solved within a unit flow-chart. Through this process, we can expect that engineering time and cost can be reduced. From survey results, it was possible to determine the inputs to examine the effects of variables, and a large jack-up rig operating under extreme environmental conditions was modeled. In the present study, the jack-up rig was operating in the North Sea, and leg length and water depth were 160 m and 100 m, respectively. The basic environmental characteristics included wave height (20 m), wave period (10 s), wind speed (30 m/s), and air gap (22 m). A parametric sensitivity analysis was performed with varying environmental parameters. Through sensitivity analysis of environmental characteristics, the significance and sensitivity of the effect of each environmental parameter on leg strength was clarified. It is expected that this will be very useful guidance about the effect of parameters during the conceptual design stage of jack-up rigs.
Calcareous Nannofossil Biostratigraphy and Biochronology at ODP Site 1123 (Offshore New Zealand): A Reference Section for the Last 20 Myr in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Di Stefano Agata , D’Andrea Natale Maria , Distefano Salvatore , Urso Salvatore , Borzì Laura , Baldassini Niccolò , Barbagallo Viviana
Published: February 2023

The quantitative analysis of the calcareous nannofossil content yield in the 600 m thick succession drilled at ODP Site 1123 (offshore New Zealand), considered as a reference section for the Southern Ocean region, allowed the recognition of 43 bioevents distributed along the last 20 Myr. The correlation with the excellent magnetostratigraphic record resulted in the attribution of numerical ages for the position of the detected horizons. Many of the marker species used in previous zonation were detected also at ODP Site 1123, but others revealed to be absent or of scarce applicability. On the other hand, the good applicability of additional events was verified and proved to be useful for the biostratigraphic subdivision and correlation. The obtained average bio- and chronostratigraphic resolution is about 0.6 Myr along the whole section, which increases to about 0.3 in the Pliocene–Holocene time interval. The final result is a detailed southern mid-to-high latitude nannofossil biochronology for the last 20 Myr, which confirms that the ODP Site 1123 succession represents a reference section for the Southern Ocean.
Assessing the Biocontrol Potential of Clonostachys Species Isolated as Endophytes from Coffea Species and as Mycoparasites of Hemileia Rusts of Coffee in Africa
Authors: Kapeua-Ndacnou Miraine , de Abreu Lucas Magalhães , de Macedo Davi Mesquita , da Nóbrega Thaisa Ferreira , Pereira Caio Mattos , Evans Harry Charles , Barreto Robert Weingart
Published: February 2023

During surveys conducted in South America and Africa to identify natural fungal enemies of coffee leaf rust (CLR), Hemileia vastatrix, over 1500 strains were isolated, either as endophytes from healthy tissues of Coffea species or as mycoparasites growing on rust pustules. Based on morphological data, eight isolates—three isolated from wild or semiwild coffee and five from Hemileia species on coffee, all from Africa—were provisionally assigned to the genus Clonostachys. A polyphasic study of their morphological, cultural and molecular characteristics—including the Tef1 (translation elongation factor 1 alpha), RPB1 (largest subunit of RNA polymerase II), TUB (β-tubulin) and ACL1 (ATP citrate lyase) regions—confirmed these isolates as belonging to three species of the genus Clonostachys: namely C. byssicola, C. rhizophaga and C. rosea f. rosea. Preliminary assays were also conducted to test the potential of the Clonostachys isolates to reduce CLR severity on coffee under greenhouse conditions. Foliar and soil applications indicated that seven of the isolates had a significant effect (p < 0.05) in reducing CLR severity. In parallel, in vitro tests that involved conidia suspensions of each of the isolates together with urediniospores of H. vastatrix resulted in high levels of inhibition of urediniospore germination. All eight isolates showed their ability to establish as endophytes in C. arabica during this study, and some proved to be mycoparasites of H. vastatrix. In addition to reporting the first records of Clonostachys associated with healthy coffee tissues and with Hemileia rusts of coffee, this work provides the first evidence that Clonostachys isolates have potential as biological control agents against CLR.
Hopeless Neuroma—The Neurotized Free Flap Tissue Augmentation as Salvage Therapy—A Concept and Clinical Demonstration
Authors: Aman Martin , Glaser Julia J. , Boecker Arne H. , Thielen Mirjam , Eisa Amr , Bigdeli Amir K. , Gazyakan Emre , Kneser Ulrich , Harhaus Leila
Published: February 2023

Therapy-resistant neuroma pain is a devastating condition for patients and surgeons. Although various methods are described to surgically deal with neuromas, some discontinuity and stump neuroma therapies have anatomical limitations. It is widely known that a neurotizable target for axon ingrowth is beneficial for dealing with neuromas. The nerve needs “something to do”. Furthermore, sufficient soft tissue coverage plays a major role in sufficient neuroma therapy. We aimed, therefore, to demonstrate our approach for therapy of resistant neuromas with insufficient tissue coverage using free flaps, which are sensory neurotized via anatomical constant branches. The central idea is to provide a new target, a new “to do” for the painful mislead axons, as well as an augmentation of deficient soft tissues. As indication is key, we furthermore demonstrate clinical cases and common neurotizable workhorse flaps.
Information and Training on the Use of Telemedicine in Pediatric Population: Consensus Document of the Italian Society of Telemedicine (SIT), of the Italian Society of Preventive and Social Pediatrics (SIPPS), of the Italian Society of Pediatric Primary Care (SICuPP), of the Italian Federation of Pediatric Doctors (FIMP), and of the Syndicate of Family Pediatrician Doctors (SIMPeF)
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Rosafio Cristiano , Antodaro Francesco , Argentiero Alberto , Bassi Marta , Becherucci Paolo , Bonsanto Fabio , Cagliero Andrea , Cannata Giulia , Capello Fabio , Cardinale Fabio , Chiriaco Tiziana , Consolaro Alessandro , Dessì Angelica , Di Mauro Giuseppe , Fainardi Valentina , Fanos Vassilios , Guarino Alfredo , Li Calzi Giada , Lodi Elisa , Maghnie Mohamad , Manfredini Luca , Malorgio Emanuela , Minuto Nicola , Modena Maria Grazia , Montori Rossano , Moscatelli Andrea , Patrone Elisa , Pescio Elena , Poeta Marco , Ravelli Angelo , Spelta Maddalena , Suppiej Agnese , Vai Sergio , Villa Luca , Zanini Rinaldo , Botti Renato , Gaddi Antonio Vittorino
Published: February 2023

Telemedicine has entered the daily lives of doctors, although the digital skills of healthcare professionals still remain a goal to be achieved. For the purpose of a large-scale development of telemedicine, it is necessary to create trust in the services it can offer and to favor their acceptance by healthcare professionals and patients. In this context, information for the patient regarding the use of telemedicine, the benefits that can be derived from it, and the training of healthcare professionals and patients for the use of new technologies are fundamental aspects. This consensus document is a commentary that has the aim of defining the information on and training aspects of telemedicine for pediatric patients and their caregivers, as well as pediatricians and other health professionals who deal with minors. For the present and the future of digital healthcare, there is a need for a growth in the skills of professionals and a lifelong learning approach throughout the professional life. Therefore, information and training actions are important to guarantee the necessary professionalism and knowledge of the tools, as well as a good understanding of the interactive context in which they are used. Furthermore, medical skills can also be integrated with the skills of various professionals (engineers, physicists, statisticians, and mathematicians) to birth a new category of health professionals responsible for building new semiotics, identifying criteria for predictive models to be integrated into clinical practice, standardizing clinical and research databases, and defining the boundaries of social networks and new communication technologies within health services.
Value and Contrarian Investment Strategies: Evidence from Indian Stock Market
Authors: Jagirdar Sharneet Singh , Gupta Pradeep Kumar
Published: February 2023

Value and contrarian investment strategies are two basic approaches which are widely used by investors worldwide. Both value and contrarian investment strategies are assumed to pick the same stocks even though the approach to picking the stocks is different. Furthermore, both investment strategies are supposed to work in various forms of market efficiency. The present study aims to empirically review and analyze the investment strategies, value and contrarian, by creating a portfolio of returns of listed stocks in India’s Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) over a period from 1990–91 to 2018–19. A Venn diagram is used to explain the selection of stocks under both investment strategies with analysts’ forecast recommendations. The findings show that value and contrarian investment strategies essentially select different stocks at any given point in time. Moreover, the study finds that both investment strategies can work in the same form of market efficiency. This study brings new insights to scholars, analysts, and investors for analyzing investment strategies and their portfolio composition.
Power Distribution of D2D Communications in Case of Energy Harvesting Capability over κ-μ Shadowed Fading Conditions
Authors: Boumaalif Adil , Zytoune Ouadoudi , El Fadil Hassan , Saadane Rachid
Published: February 2023

Device-to-device (D2D) communication will play a meaningful role in future wireless networks and standards, since it ensures ultra-low latency for communication among near devices. D2D transmissions can take place together with the actual cellular communications, so handling the interference is very important. In this paper, we consider a D2D couple operating in the uplink band in an underlaid mode, and, using the stochastic geometry, we propose a cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the D2D transmit power under κ-μ shadowed fading. Then, we derive some special cases for some fading channels, such as Nakagami and Rayleigh environments, and for the interference-limited scenario. Moreover, we propose a radio frequency energy harvesting, where the D2D users can harvests ambient RF energy from cellular users. Finally, the analytical results are validated via simulation.
Key Actors’ Perspectives on Agroforestry’s Potential in North Eastern Germany
Authors: Litschel Johannes , Berendt Ferréol , Wagner Hanna , Heidenreich Simon , Bauer David , Welp Martin , Cremer Tobias
Published: February 2023

As a land use management system, agroforestry has environmental, economic and societal benefits over conventional agriculture or forestry. Important benefits of combining tree growth with agricultural crops and/or forage production systems include higher biodiversity through more diverse habitats, the control of runoff and soil erosion, the augmentation of soil water availability, the creation of microclimates, carbon sequestration and provision of a more diverse farm economy. As the climate changes, north eastern Germany is likely to be particularly prone to severe effects from droughts and wind erosion in the future. However, the area of land under agroforestry makes up less than 2% of the total agricultural area in Germany. Through qualitative interviews with key actors, this study analyzed the benefits of, potentials for and barriers to implementing agroforestry systems in the federal state of Brandenburg. Results showed that agroforestry systems have significant potential in relation to several benefits, particularly the mitigation of soil erosion and stabilization of microclimate regimes. Additionally, agroforestry has the potential to provide wood for energy production or material uses. Although a small but highly innovative and interlinked community exists, administrative barriers and high start-up costs currently hamper the transition from conventional agriculture to agroforestry systems.
Optimizing the Cropland Fallow for Water Resource Security in the Groundwater Funnel Area of China
Authors: Chen Hong , Chen Sha , Yang Runjia , Shan Liping , Hao Jinmin , Ye Yanmei
Published: February 2023

Excessive exploitation of groundwater for agricultural irrigation has resulted in groundwater funnel, causing land subsidence, water pollution, and vegetation degradation. The cropland fallow is an effective tool to maintain groundwater by reducing water consumption from agricultural irrigation. However, the cropland fallow program of fallow areas and fallow locations based on the protection of water resources at county level is unclear. The objective of this study is to improve the efficiency of cropland fallows under the premise of ensuring regional food security. In this study, we assessed the fallow urgency using IPLI (irrigation profit/loss index) and SGDCR (shallow groundwater depth change rate) and analyzed the cropland fallow areas and cropland fallow locations in Quzhou County, which is located in the world’s largest groundwater funnel area. The results showed that winter wheat’s irrigation water is in short supply (IPLI value is 0.1173), while that of summer maize and cotton’s irrigation water are in excessive supply (−0.9849 and −0.0071, respectively), and the depth to groundwater is deeper in the south and east in Quzhou County. The GM (1,1) gray prediction model showed that the cropland area that can be fallowed is 4089.288 hm2, 1189.288 hm2 larger than the current cropland fallow area (2900 hm2) according to official figures. In addition, two townships in southeast Quzhou county (Yizhuang and Houcun town) should be given high priority for cropland fallow; this is different from the current fallow cropland plots, distributed in eight townships (Yizhuang, Houcun, Nanliyue, Huaiqiao, Disituan, Henantuan, Baizhai, and Quzhou town). These results were useful to improve the cropland fallow program with the actual needs of the groundwater funnel area and develop the cropland fallow program from the aspects of “quality”, “quantity”, and “positioning” at county level.
Monitoring Effectiveness of an Operational Project on Two Threatened Landbirds: Applying a Before–After Threat Analysis and Threat Reduction Assessment
Authors: Battisti Corrado , Perchinelli Marisa , Vanadia Sharon , Giovacchini Pietro , Marsili Letizia
Published: February 2023

Human activities are at the origin of anthropogenic threats altering ecosystems at any hierarchical level. To mitigate them, environmental managers develop projects to obtain effective outcomes on biological targets of conservation concern. Here, we carried out two new approaches (TAN = Threat Analysis and TRA = Threat Reduction Assessment) aimed at assessing the effectiveness of conservation actions on two threatened beach-nesting landbird species, the Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) and the Little Ringed Plover (C. dubius), breeding along a coastal beach of central Italy. Using a score-based evaluation (TAN approach), a panel of experts assessed the extent, intensity, and magnitude of a set of species-specific threats, ranking them from more to less impacting. Domestic dogs, dune trampling, and synanthropic predators appeared as the threats with the most significant magnitudes. Using the TRA approach, experts obtained a rank of threats that were more urgent to solve: i.e., domestic dogs and dune trampling. To contrast with these threats, in 2021, we carried out a conservation project with specific measures that were aimed at reducing the threat magnitude on birds. They included: dune borders demarcation, anti-predatory cages on plover nests, the removal of beach-stranded fishing lines and hooks, field surveillance by volunteers, dog control, social- and mass-media communication, and alliances with stakeholders and institutions. After the project, mechanical beach grooming (>80%), dune trampling, and synanthropic predators (both >60%) showed the highest percentage of impact reduction. The project showed a medium–high level of effectiveness in reducing the total threat magnitude (TRA-I index = 63.08%). The Threat Analysis should be routinely used to arrange a causal chain that is useful for defining the relationships among human-induced threats and ecological targets, selecting the threats with the highest magnitudes. After the projects, the Threat Reduction Assessment may assess the level of threat reduction, suggesting measures for adaptive management.
The Joint Link of the rs1051730 and rs1902341 Polymorphisms and Cigarette Smoking to Peripheral Artery Disease and Atherosclerotic Lesions of Different Arterial Beds
Authors: Zhabin Sergey , Lazarenko Victor , Azarova Iuliia , Klyosova Elena , Bykanova Marina , Chernousova Svetlana , Bashkatov Daniil , Gneeva Ekaterina , Polonikova Anna , Churnosov Mikhail , Solodilova Maria , Polonikov Alexey
Published: February 2023

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have discovered numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) contributing to peripheral artery disease (PAD), but their joint effects with risk factors like cigarette smoking (CS) on disease susceptibility have not been systematically investigated. The present study looked into whether CS mediates the effects of GWAS loci on the development of PAD and atherosclerotic lesions in different arterial beds. DNA samples from 1263 unrelated individuals of Slavic origin including 620 PAD patients and 643 healthy subjects were genotyped by the MassArray-4 system for rs1051730, rs10134584, rs1902341, rs10129758 which are known as PAD-associated GWAS loci. The rs1051730 polymorphism was strongly associated with an increased risk of PAD (p = 5.1 × 10−6), whereas rs1902341 did not show an association with disease risk. The rs1051730 polymorphism was associated with increased plasma levels of LDL cholesterol (p = 0.001), and conferred a greater risk of PAD in cigarette smokers than in nonsmokers (p < 0.01). Interestingly, the rs1902341T allele was associated with an increased risk of PAD in smokers and a decreased disease risk in nonsmokers. SNPs and CS were both linked to unilateral and/or bilateral atherosclerotic lesions of peripheral vessels, as well as the abdominal aorta, coronary, and cerebral arteries. The studied polymorphisms exert pleiotropic and cigarette smoking-mediated effects on atherosclerotic lesions of different arterial beds.
Biological Activity of Hybrid Molecules Based on Major Constituents of Cinnammomun verum and Thymus vulgaris Essential Oils
Authors: Valverde Sancho Juan , Carreño Amate Cristina , Caparrós Pérez María del Mar , Santana Méridas Omar , Julio Luis F.
Published: February 2023

Plants have been used by humans since ancient times due their antimicrobial and medicinal properties. Essential oils (EOs) are complex mixtures of secondary plant metabolites, including terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and other aromatic compounds. Cinnamomun verum and Thyme vulgaris EOs and their organic extracts exert numerous biological activities because of their major compounds, particularly thymol, carvacrol, eugenol, and benzoic and cinnamic acid. The structural motifs presented by these phytochemicals are responsible for their biological activities. Modification or hybridization of these structures could lead to new bio-based compounds with improved efficacy or multiple modes of action. In this work, we aimed to develop reliable methods of obtaining six hybrid molecules from the major constituents of C. verum and T. vulgaris EOs. For the first time, we tested their efficacy in the inhibition of the mycelium growth and spore germination of two of the most important phytopathogenic fungi, Fusarium oxysporum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and one opportunistic human pathogen, Aspergillus niger. The cytotoxic activity of the obtained hybrids was assessed using the brine shrimp lethality assay. In addition, we report for the first time a biocatalytic process for the obtention of these bioactive hybrid molecules. The results of this work enable the possibility of using hybrid molecules based on the major constituents of EOs as active ingredients in strategic industries such as agriculture, aquaculture, and pharmaceuticals.
The First Analysis of Synaptonemal Complexes in Jawless Vertebrates: Chromosome Synapsis and Transcription Reactivation at Meiotic Prophase I in the Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis (Petromyzontiformes, Cyclostomata)
Authors: Matveevsky Sergey , Tropin Nikolay , Kucheryavyy Aleksandr , Kolomiets Oxana
Published: February 2023

Transcription is known to be substage-specific in meiotic prophase I. If transcription is reactivated in the mid pachytene stage in mammals when synapsis is completed, then this process is observed in the zygotene stage in insects. The process of transcriptional reactivation has been studied in a small number of different taxa of invertebrates and vertebrates. Here, for the first time, we investigate synapsis and transcription in prophase I in the European river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis (Petromyzontiformes, Cyclostomata), which is representative of jawless vertebrates that diverged from the main branch of vertebrates between 535 and 462 million years ago. We found that not all chromosomes complete synapsis in telomeric regions. Rounded structures were detected in chromatin and in some synaptonemal complexes, but their nature could not be determined conclusively. An analysis of RNA polymerase II distribution led to the conclusion that transcriptional reactivation in lamprey prophase I is not associated with the completion of chromosome synapsis. Monomethylated histone H3K4 is localized in meiotic chromatin throughout prophase I, and this pattern has not been previously detected in animals. Thus, the findings made it possible to identify synaptic and epigenetic patterns specific to this group and to expand knowledge about chromatin epigenetics in prophase I.
Bacteriostatic and Antibiofilm Efficacy of a Nisin Z Solution against Co-Cultures of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Diabetic Foot Infections
Authors: Serrano Isa , Alhinho Bernardo , Cunha Eva , Tavares Luís , Trindade Alexandre , Oliveira Manuela
Published: February 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) patients frequently develop diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) which are generally infected by a community of microorganisms, mainly Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria exhibit a multi-drug resistance profile and biofilm-forming ability which represent a hurdle in the treatment of diabetic foot infections (DFI). We aimed to evaluate the potential of Nisin Z, an antimicrobial peptide (AMP), as an alternative treatment for severe DFI. Nisin Z shows antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and an increased antibacterial effect against Gram-negatives when added to EDTA. As such, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC), and Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC) were determined for Nisin Z, Nisin Z + EDTA (0.4%), and Nisin Z + EDTA incorporated into guar gum, in order to test its efficacy against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa isolated from the same DFU. Results showed that Nisin Z added to the chelation agent EDTA displayed higher antibacterial and bacteriostatic efficacy against mono and dual co-cultures of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, and higher antibiofilm efficiency against monocultures. Nisin Z was moderately cytotoxic at 200 µg/mL. Prospect in vivo studies are needed to confirm the potential of Nisin Z supplemented with EDTA to be used as a complement to conventional antibiotic therapy for severe DFI.
Experimental Investigation of Oil Transport during Low Load to High Load Transient in Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Li Mo , Tian Tian
Published: February 2023

Reducing the Lubricating Oil Consumption (LOC) has been a critical focus for engine manufacturers. LOC not only depends on engine operating condition but also the history of the operating condition variations. This work seeks to understand the oil transport in the ring pack during the low load to high load transient through experimental investigations. An optical engine with 2D Laser Induced Fluorescence (2D-LIF) technique, equipped with a modern low-tension Three-Piece Oil Control Ring (TPOCR), was applied to investigate the oil transport in the ring pack. It was found that, after the engine stayed under the blowby separation line long enough, a sudden increase to high load can result in a huge increase of oil ejection to the liner from the top ring groove in the expansion strokes. The mechanism behind it is that, when the load is increased, the oil accumulated inside the top ring groove during the low load condition is pushed out by the gas flow after the peak cylinder pressure is reached. Different combinations of load, speed, rate of change in load and time duration at low load were tested to examine their influence on this leakage mechanism. An operation with a gradual increase of engine load was found to be able to reduce the amount of oil leaked to the liner by releasing more oil to the second land. These findings can help the effort to reduce the oil emission (OE) generated from Spark Ignited (SI) engines equipped with TPOCR in the real-world transient driving conditions as well as the emission tests.
Numerical Analysis of Friction Reduction and ATSLB Capacity of Lubricated MTS with Textured Micro-Elements
Authors: Wang Xigui , Huang Hui , Song Jingyu , Wang Yongmei , Ruan Jiafu
Published: February 2023

The simulation analysis numerically investigates the thermoelastic lubricated interfacial Textured Micro-Element (TME) load-bearing contact, a theoretical model is proposed, and the effective friction reduction and Anti-Thermoelastic Scuffing Load bearing (ATSLB) capacity between random rough Meshing Teeth Surfaces (MTS) are presented, the mechanism linking interfacial thermoelastic lubrication, TME meshing friction reduction and ATSLB is revealed. The real contact domain area between MTS with multi-scale Micro-Element Textures (MET) is obtained for the numerical calculation of the three-dimensional equivalent TME contact volume, which is the correlation bridge between friction reduction and ATSLB of the thermoelastic lubrication interface. The proposed theoretical model predicts the time-varying behaviour of the textured meshing interface friction reduction with TME contact load under thermoelastic lubrication conditions. Numerical simulations show that the textured interface meshing volume is the key to solving the load-bearing problem of line contact between randomly rough teeth surfaces. The friction coefficients of the MTS are reduced by 13–24%. The lubricated load-bearing and friction reduction behaviour between the textured MTS is quantified by the thermoelastic voids of TME interface and actual meshing volume ratio, which provides a new perspective for further insight into the lubrication and friction reduction behaviour between the MTS with multi-scale MET-ATSLB coupling mechanism.
Corrosion Resistance of AISI 442 and AISI 446 Ferritic Stainless Steels as a Support for PEMWE Bipolar Plates
Authors: Dan Mircea Laurentiu , Kellenberger Andrea , Duca Delia , Vaszilcsin Nicolae , Craciunescu Corneliu Marius , Mitelea Ion , Ercuta Aurel , Lædre Sigrid , Khoza Thulile
Published: February 2023

Cost reduction in bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers has previously been attempted by substituting bulk titanium with austenitic stainless steels protected with highly conductive and corrosion-resistant coatings. However, austenitic steels are more expensive than ferritic steels due to their high nickel content. Herein we report on the corrosion resistance of two high chromium ferritic stainless steels, AISI 442 and AISI 446, as an alternative material to manufacture bipolar plates. Electrochemical corrosion tests have shown that AISI 442 and AISI 446 have similar corrosion resistance, while AISI 446 reveals more noble corrosion potential and performs better during potentiostatic stress tests. The current density obtained during polarization at 2 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) is 3.3 mA cm−2, which is more than two times lower than on AISI 442. Additionally, surface morphology characterization demonstrates that in contrast to AISI 442, AISI 446 is not sensitive to intercrystalline or pitting corrosion. Moreover, EDX energy dispersion analysis of AISI 446 reveals no differences in the chemical composition of the surface layer compared to the base material, as a confirmation of its high corrosion resistance. The results of this work open up the perspective of replacing austenitic stainless steels with less expensive ferritic stainless steels for the production of components such as bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers.
Mechanical Properties of Titanium/Nano-Fluorapatite Parts Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Wu Po-Kuan , Lin Wei-Ting , Lin Jia-Wei , Tran Hong-Chuong , Kuo Tsung-Yuan , Chien Chi-Sheng , Vo Vi-Long , Lin Ru-Li
Published: February 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) has attracted great interest in recent years due to its ability to produce intricate parts beyond the capabilities of traditional manufacturing processes. L-PBF processed biomedical implants are usually made of commercial pure titanium (CP-Ti) or its alloys. However, both alloys are naturally bio-inert, and thus reduce the formation of apatite as implants are put into the human body. Accordingly, in an attempt to improve the bioactivity of the materials used for making orthopedic implants, the present study decomposed fluorapatite material (FA, (Ca10(PO4)6F2)) into the form of nano-powder and mixed this powder with CP-Ti powder in two different ratios (99%Ti + 1%FA (Ti-1%FA) and 98%Ti + 2%FA (Ti-2%FA)) to form powder material for the L-PBF process. Experimental trials were conducted to establish the optimal processing conditions (i.e., laser power, scanning speed and hatching space) of the L-PBF process for the two powder mixtures and the original CP-Ti powder with no FA addition. The optimal parameters were then used to produce tensile test specimens in order to evaluate the mechanical properties of the different samples. The hardness of the various samples was also examined by micro-Vickers hardness tests. The tensile strength of the Ti-1%FA sample (850 MPa) was found to be far higher than that of the CP-Ti sample (513 MPa). Furthermore, the yield strength of the Ti-1%FA sample (785 MPa) was also much higher than that of the CP-Ti sample (472 MPa). However, the elongation of the Ti-1%FA sample (6.27 %) was significantly lower than that of the CP-Ti sample (16.17%). Finally, the hardness values of the Ti-1%FA and Ti-2%FA samples were around 63.8% and 109.4%, respectively, higher than that of the CP-Ti sample.
Feasibility Study of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavements (RAP) as Recycled Aggregates Used in Rigid Pavement Construction
Authors: Rout M. K. Diptikanta , Sahdeo Surya Kant , Biswas Sabyasachi , Roy Krishanu , Sinha Abdhesh Kumar
Published: February 2023

Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) as recycled aggregates is a relatively new construction process of rigid pavements due to the scarcity and degradation of natural aggregates. This study aims at the sequential characterization of RAP aggregate to obtain optimized proportions for strength. For this purpose, RAP aggregates were used for the replacement of natural aggregates (NA) in the concrete mix which was achieved by varying from 0–100%. Furthermore, zirconia silica fume (ZSF) was used as a partial replacement of the cement in the concrete mix, replacing Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Experimental studies have shown that the incorporation of washed RAP (WRAP) slightly reduces the compressive strength of concrete by 2.7–37.35% as compared to the reference control concrete mix. Although the 7-days, 28-days and 56-day compressive strength of WRAP recycled aggregate-based concrete is slightly better than the 7-days, 28-days and 56-day compressive strength of dirty RAP (DRAP) recycled aggregate-based concrete. A similar trend was observed in the flexural strength and split tensile strength of WRAP recycled aggregate-based. Overall, the results show that 40% WRAP recycled aggregates with 10% ZSF as a replacement for cement outperform DRAP aggregates in concrete mixes. According to the ANOVA results, the combination of ZSF and WRAP aggregates met the cement concrete pavement strength standard, thereby contributing to sustainable development. Reclaimed Asphalt Concrete Pavements (RACP) are now seen as a potential and long-term answer to the present environmental and economic crisis.
Differences in In Vitro Bacterial Adherence between Ti6Al4V and CoCrMo Alloys
Authors: Martín-García Marta , Aguilera-Correa John Jairo , Arenas María Ángeles , García-Diego Ignacio M. , Conde Ana , de Damborenea Juan José , Esteban Jaime
Published: February 2023

Prosthetic joint infection is an uncommon entity, but it supposes high costs, both from the economic side to the health systems and from the emotional side of the patient. The evaluation of the bacterial adherence to different materials frequently involved in joint prostheses allows us to better understand the mechanisms underlying this and provide information for the future development of prevention strategies. This study evaluated the bacterial adherence of four different species (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) on Ti6Al4V and CoCrMo. The topography, surface contact angles, and linear average roughness were measured in the samples from both alloys. The interaction with the surface of both alloys was significantly different, with the CoCrMo showing an aggregating effect on all the species, with additional anti-adherent activity in the case of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The viability also changes, with a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the CoCrMo alloy. In the case of S. epidermidis, the viability in the supernatant from the samples was different, too, with a decrease in the colony-forming units in the Ti6Al4V, which could be related to cation release from the surface. Beyond adhesion is a multifactorial and complex process, and considering that topography and wettability were similar, the chemical composition could play a main role in the different properties observed.
Mechanical Behaviors of Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis Recycled Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Concrete with Early-Strength Cement
Authors: Li Yeou-Fong , Li Jie-You , Syu Jin-Yuan , Yang Tzu-Hsien , Chang Shu-Mei , Shen Ming-Yuan
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to investigate the mechanical performance of early-strength carbon fiber-reinforced concrete (ECFRC) by incorporating original carbon fiber (OCF), recycled carbon fiber (RCF), and sizing-removed carbon fiber (SCF). Compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength were tested under three fiber-to-cement weight ratios (5‰, 10‰, and 15‰). The RCF was produced from waste bicycle parts made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) through microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP). The sizing-removed fiber was obtained through a heat-treatment method applied to the OCF. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) indicated the successful removal of sizing and impurities from the surface of the RCF and SCF. The mechanical test results showed that ECFRC with a 10‰ fiber-to-cement weight ratio of carbon fiber had the greatest improvement in its mechanical strengths. Moreover, the ECFRC with 10‰ RCF exhibited higher compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength than that of benchmark specimen by 14.2%, 56.5%, and 22.5%, respectively. The ECFRC specimens with a 10‰ fiber-to-cement weight ratio were used to analyze their impact resistance under various impact energies in the impact test. At 50 joules of impact energy, the impact number of the ECFRC with SCF was over 23 times that of the benchmark specimen (early-strength concrete without fiber) and was also greater than that of ECFRC with OCF and RCF.