bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glomerular spatial transcriptomics of IgA nephropathy according to the presence of mesangial proliferation
Authors: Park Sehoon , Kang Minji , Kim Yong Chul , Kim Dong Ki , Oh Kook-Hwan , Joo Kwon Wook , Kim Yon Su , Kim Hyun Je , Moon Kyung Chul , Lee Hajeong
Published: January 2024

Mesangial proliferation is a diagnostic feature and a prognostic predictor of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). We aimed to investigate the gene expression profiles of IgAN glomerulus according to the presence of mesangial proliferation. We performed spatial-specific transcriptomic profiling on kidney biopsy tissues using the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. Twelve cases with three glomeruli for each case were profiled using direct pathologic classification (4 M1-IgAN, 4 M0-IgAN, and 4 donor controls). The results of enriched glom-specific genes demonstrated that M1-IgAN could be distinguished from controls (77 upregulated and 55 downregulated DEGs), while some DEGs were identified between M1-IgAN and M0-IgAN cases (24 upregulated and 8 downregulated DEGs) or between M0 and controls (1 upregulated and 16 downregulated DEGs). TCF21, an early podocyte damage marker, was the only differentially expressed gene (DEG) consistently upregulated in both M1-IgAN and M0-IgAN patients, whereas ATF3, EGR1, DUSP1, FOS, JUNB, KLF2, NR4A1, RHOB, and ZFP36 were consistently downregulated in IgAN cases. Glomeruli from M1-IgAN cases were significantly enriched for cell surface/adhesion molecules and gene expressions associated with vascular development or the extracellular matrix. Spatial transcriptomic analysis may contribute to dissecting structure-specific pathophysiology and molecular changes in IgAN.
Recent insights into catechins-rich Assam tea extract for photoaging and senescent ageing
Authors: Kanlayavattanakul Mayuree , Khongkow Mattaka , Klinngam Wannita , Chaikul Puxvadee , Lourith Nattaya , Chueamchaitrakun Piyaporn
Published: January 2024

Tea (Camellia spp.) is an important medicinal herb. C. sinensis var. sinensis is the most studied tea variety due to its more preferred flavor than C. sinensis var. assamica (Assam tea), the less economic importance with more bitter variety. A bitter taste highlights its potential as a candidate source for tea catechins, the health beneficial actives applicable for ageing treatment. Nonetheless, indicative data for tea on UV-induced and senescent ageing remain unclarified. Assam tea extract (ATE) was prepared and standardized in terms of TPC, TFC and TTC. EGCG was HPLC quantified as the prime ATE catechin. In vitro antioxidant activity of ATE was exhibited with ABTS, DPPH and FRAP assays. ATE’s cellular antioxidant activity was indicated in HDFs at a stronger degree than ascorbic acid. The photoaging protection of ATE was evidenced in a coculture of HaCaT cells and HDFs. ATE markedly suppressed UV-induced IL-6, IL-8, MMP-1 and MMP-9 expressions. The proficiency of ATE targeting on senescent ageing was demonstrated in an ex vivo human skin model, where IL-6 and MMP-1 expressions were suppressed, whilst hyaluronic acid and collagen syntheses were promoted. ATE was chemically stabled as indicated by the catechin contents and color parameters following 6 months storage under conditions recommended for topical product. ATE enriched in catechins warrants its applicability as a new generation of photoaging protectant agent promising for the prevention and treatment for senescent ageing. The findings indicate the proficiency of ATE for innovative anti-ageing agent.
Usefulness of a questionnaire for assessing the relationship between eating behavior and steatotic liver disease among Japanese male young adults
Authors: Miwa Takao , Tajirika Satoko , Hanai Tatsunori , Imamura Nanako , Adachi Miho , Horita Ryo , Fukao Taku , Shimizu Masahito , Yamamoto Mayumi
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to reveal the relationship between eating behavior and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in young adults and suggest a questionnaire for eating behavior assessment. We included 322 male graduate students at Gifu University. Diagnoses of NAFLD and MASLD were based on the presence of hepatic steatosis on ultrasonography. Eating behavior was assessed using the eating behavior questionnaire (EBQ) recommended by the Japan Society for the Study of Obesity. We assessed the eating behaviors associated with NAFLD and MASLD using logistic regression, decision tree, and random forest analyses. The median age of the participants was 22 years, and 16% and 11% had NAFLD and MASLD, respectively. The EBQ total score was significantly higher in participants with MASLD than in those without MASLD (102 vs. 90 points, P = 0.006) and in those with NAFLD than in those without NAFLD (97 vs. 90 points, P = 0.007). Among eating behavior categories, the decision tree and random forest analyses revealed that “perception of constitution and weight” was the strongest contributor for NAFLD/MASLD. Our study revealed that eating behavior assessed with the EBQ is robustly associated with NAFLD and MASLD in young male adults.
The association between iris color and refractive errors in children
Authors: Ebrahimi Mehrdad , Gharravi Anneh Mohammad , Aliyari Roqayeh , Emamian Mohammad Hassan , Khabazkhoob Mehdi , Hashemi Hassan , Fotouhi Akbar
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the association between iris color and refractive errors in children aged 6–12 years. This cross-sectional study was based on data obtained from the first phase of the Shahroud Schoolchildren Eye Cohort Study. The target population was 6 to12 year-old students living in urban and rural areas. Iris colors were classified by comparing eye colors with close-up images of iris colors. Myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent (SE) ≤ − 0.5 diopter and hyperopia was defined as SE ≥ 2 diopter in cycloplegic refraction. The association of iris color with hyperopia and myopia was investigated by fitting two separate multiple logistic regression models adjusted for place of residence, age, sex, and times for outdoor activity and near work. Among the 5394 participates with the mean age of 9.7 year, the prevalence of myopia and hyperopia was 4.8% and 4.7% respectively. The number and proportion (in parentheses) of amber, light blue, light brown, dark brown, gray, green and hazel iris colors were 19(0.4%), 26(0.5%), 645(12.0%), 4517(83.7%), 4(0.1%), 59(1.1%), and 124(2.3%) respectively. Compared to dark brown, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (in parentheses) of myopia were 4.8(1.2–18.7), 0.8(0.1–5.8), 1.0(0.7–1.5), 0.4(0.1–2.7) and 0.6(0.2–1.8) for amber, light blue, light brown, green and hazel iris colors in multiple logistic regression model. No significant association was observed between iris colors and hyperopia. This study shows that amber iris is significantly associated with higher odds of myopia. These children should be further monitored and examined. More studies with higher sample size in all iris colors are recommended.
Feasibility of combining spatial computing and AI for mental health support in anxiety and depression
Authors: Spiegel Brennan M. R. , Liran Omer , Clark Allistair , Samaan Jamil S. , Khalil Carine , Chernoff Robert , Reddy Kavya , Mehra Muskaan
Published: January 2024

The increasing need for mental health support and a shortage of therapists have led to the development of the eXtended-reality Artificial Intelligence Assistant (XAIA). This platform combines spatial computing, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to provide immersive mental health support. Utilizing GPT-4 for AI-driven therapy, XAIA engaged participants with mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression in biophilic VR environments. Speaking with an AI therapy avatar in VR was considered acceptable, helpful, and safe, with participants observed to engage genuinely with the program. However, some still favored human interaction and identified shortcomings with using a digital VR therapist. The study provides initial evidence of the acceptability and safety of AI psychotherapy via spatial computing, warranting further research on technical enhancements and clinical impact.
Projected amplification of summer marine heatwaves in a warming Northeast Pacific Ocean
Authors: Athanase Marylou , Sánchez-Benítez Antonio , Goessling Helge F. , Pithan Felix , Jung Thomas
Published: January 2024

Marine heatwaves are expected to become more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting in a warming world. However, it remains unclear whether feedback processes could amplify or dampen extreme ocean temperatures. Here we impose the observed atmospheric flow in coupled climate simulations to determine how the record-breaking 2019 Northeast Pacific marine heatwave would have unfolded in preindustrial times, and how it could unravel in a +4 °C warmer world compared to present-day conditions. We find that air-sea interactions, involving reductions in clouds and ocean mixed-layer depth and air advection from fast-warming subpolar regions, modulate warming rates within the marine heatwave. In a +4 °C warmer climate, global oceans are +1.9 °C warmer than present levels, and regional mean warming in the Northeast Pacific can reach +2.3–2.7 ± 0.25 °C. Our identified feedback processes are projected to further amplify the intensity and spatial extent of analogous Northeast Pacific summer marine heatwaves beyond those thresholds, with a warming reaching +2.9 ± 0.15 °C above present levels. Such an event-specific amplification would place even greater stress on marine ecosystems and fisheries.
Soft electronic skin for self-deployable tape-spring hinges
Authors: Yao Yao , Ning Xin
Published: January 2024

Thin-walled structures utilizing the release of stored strain energy for self-deployment have gained popularity in deployable space structures. However, the integration of traditional rigid or bulky sensors to monitor their mechanical behavior presents challenges due to large local deformations and strains involved in folding and deployment. Here we introduce a concept of structural electronic skin (e-skin) that is soft, lightweight, and designed for sensing the folding and deployment of tape-spring hinges. The e-skin demonstrates the capability to accommodate significant hinge deformation and enables multimodal sensing, including strain measurements, motion sensing, and dynamics monitoring. The research showcases a promising approach that leverages the design and manufacturing of soft electronics to fulfill the requirements of thin, lightweight, and soft functional devices for multifunctionality in deployable space structures.
Thermoelectric properties of Gd and Se double substituted tetrahedrite
Authors: Rout Umasankar , Mallik Ramesh Chandra
Published: January 2024

Simultaneous reduction of carrier concentration and enhancement of density of states near Fermi energy leading to enhanced thermoelectric figure of merit in Cu12Sb4S13 tetrahedrite.
Hierarchical Mg/Al hydrotalcite oxide hollow microspheres with excellent adsorption capability towards Congo red
Authors: Bai Zeng , Rong Daoqing , Li Ming , Xu Guilong , Liu Shucheng , Zeng Jianyun , Lv Yinghao , Tang Yi , Wen Xiaogang
Published: January 2024

Mg/Al layered double oxide hollow microspheres constructed with thin nanoflakes exhibit excellent adsorption ability towards Congo red.
The effect of the ageing process on the desorption of nonylphenol in black carbon-sediment systems: a kineto-mechanistic and modeling investigation
Authors: Sun Mingyang , Liu Han , Liu Feixiang , Yang Hong , Cheng Guanghuan
Published: January 2024

The content of NP in the desorbing fraction was nearly equivalent to that of NP in partition sites in aged FC-sediment systems, but the release risk of NP from aged RC-sediment systems would be overestimated according to this rule.
Waste-derived carbon nanodots for fluorimetric and simultaneous electrochemical detection of heavy metals in water
Authors: Bressi Viviana , Celesti Consuelo , Ferlazzo Angelo , Len Thomas , Moulaee Kaveh , Neri Giovanni , Luque Rafael , Espro Claudia
Published: January 2024

Sustainable synthesis of carbon nanodots (CNDs) through a green route – converting beer bagasse, a by-product of the beer industry, into hydrochar via eco-friendly hydrothermal carbonization, and their application for the selective detection of harmful heavy metal ions.
Effects of dietary supplementation of fish oil plus vitamin D3 on gut microbiota and fecal metabolites, and their correlation with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease risk factors: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Xueqi , Pan Chi , Ma Wenjun , Yang Ting , Wang Chong , Han Weiwei , Zhang Wei , Li Hui , Li Zhongxia , Zhao Ting , Guo Xiao-fei , Li Duo
Published: January 2024

The underlying mechanisms which fish oil plus vitamin D3 (FO + D) could ameliorate nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Impact of pre-meal immersion on multi-scale structural changes and starch digestibility of cooked dried noodles
Authors: Wang Jiasheng , Liu Chong , Yang Hanrui , Li Xuedong , Hong Jing , Liu Mei , Sun Binghua , Guan Erqi , Zheng Xueling
Published: January 2024

Quantitative analysis of multi-scale structural and starch digestibility changes of cooked dried noodles during pre-meal immersion by mathematical modeling.
Fabrication of zein–tamarind seed polysaccharide–curcumin nanocomplexes: their characterization and impact on alleviating colitis and gut microbiota dysbiosis in mice
Authors: Xie Fan , Zhu Zengjin , Zeng Jingyi , Xia Yongjun , Zhang Hui , Wu Yan , Song Zibo , Ai Lianzhong
Published: January 2024

In this work, a zein–tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) co-delivery system was fabricated using an anti-solvent precipitation method.
High-efficiency ITO-free organic solar cells through top illumination
Authors: Huang Yu-Ching , Lee Chih-Chien , Lee Yung-Yuan , Chung Ssu-yung , Lin Hui-Chieh , Kasimayan Uma , Li Chia-Feng , Liu Shun-Wei
Published: January 2024

Our polymer solar cells boast an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio of 31.07 W g−1. Such devices demonstrate robust photostability, retaining 93% of their initial power conversion efficiency even after 48 hours of continuous light exposure.
A study on a broadband photodetector based on hybrid 2D copper oxide/reduced graphene oxide
Authors: Ngo Duc Anh , Nguyen Nhat Minh , Tran Cong Khanh , Van Tran Thi Thanh , Thi Tran Nhu Hoa , Thao Bui Thi Thu , Duy Le Thai , Dang Vinh Quang
Published: January 2024

The 2D CuO/rGO hybrid broadband photodetector is capable of stable operation in a wide light range from UV to NIR.
Viscoelastic microfluidics for enhanced separation resolution of submicron particles and extracellular vesicles
Authors: Hettiarachchi Samith , Ouyang Lingxi , Cha Haotian , Hansen Helena H. W. B. , An Honjie , Nguyen Nam-Trung , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2024

Viscoelastic microfluidics achieves separation of ternary submicron particle mixture and extracellular vesicles with enhanced separation resolution up to 100 nm.
Access to chiral β-amino sulfones from acrylamides and sulfur dioxide by iron catalysis
Authors: Luo Liping , Zhang Xuemei , Huang Chunxi , Lian Zhong
Published: January 2024

This method allows for the enantioselective synthesis of β-azide sulfones via iron-catalyzed vicinal azide-sulfonylation of acrylamides. It makes the first instance of achieving asymmetric construction through iron catalysis with SO2 insertion.
Grafting photochromic spiropyran polymer brushes on graphene oxide surfaces via surface-initiated ring-opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Li BangSen , Zhu Wenya , Liu Jinrui , Sun Shishu , Zhang Yan , Zhang DaShuai , Li Chen , Shi Jianjun , Shi Zaifeng
Published: January 2024

A practical “grafting-from” strategy is described to grow photochromic polymer brushes bearing spiropyran (SP) functional groups on graphene oxide (GO) surfaces via surface-initiated ring-opening metathesis polymerization (SI-ROMP).
Tunable ohmic van der Waals-type contacts in monolayer C3N field-effect transistors
Authors: Song Weiqi , Dai Jingrou , Zou Feihu , Niu Yize , Cong Yao , Li Qiang , Pan Yuanyuan
Published: January 2024

In ML C3N FETs, ohmic contacts can be easily formed and tuned by changing functional groups from n-type to p-type.
Controlling aggregation-induced emission by supramolecular interactions and colloidal stability in ionic emitters for light-emitting electrochemical cells
Authors: Sanz-Velasco Alba , Amargós-Reyes Olivia , Kähäri Aya , Lipinski Sophia , Cavinato Luca M. , Costa Rubén D. , Kostiainen Mauri A. , Anaya-Plaza Eduardo
Published: January 2024

In this work, we study the interplay between hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity in cationic aggregation induced emitters, and their application in light emitting electrochemical cells.
Photo- and halochromism of spiropyran-based main-chain polymers
Authors: Thai Linh Duy , Kammerer Jochen A. , Mutlu Hatice , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: January 2024

The effects of substitution patterns on spiropyrans within a homopolymer main-chain demonstrate the critical influence of the location of the ester group on the photo- and halochromism of the resulting polymers.
Computational electrocatalysis beyond conventional hydrogen electrode model: CO2 reduction to C2 species on copper facilitated by dynamically formed solvent halide ions at the solid–liquid interface
Authors: Mao Xin , He Tianwei , Kour Gurpreet , Yin Hanqing , Ling Chongyi , Gao Guoping , Jin Yonggang , Liu Qingju , O'Mullane Anthony P. , Du Aijun
Published: January 2024

CO2 reduction on copper with hydrated alkaline and halide ions at the solid–liquid interface using density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulations.
Constructing FeTe2 nanoparticles embedded in N-doped carbon nanofiber composites as a long-life and high-rate anode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Lin Zihua , Zhang Haiyan , Yang Changsheng , Liu Zhenjiang , Wen Daofeng , Peng Xiang , Li Shengkai , Wu Xia
Published: January 2024

Tellurium metal exhibits notably high electrical conductivity along with low electronegativity.
Computational screening of a promising diatomic catalyst for CO2 electroreduction to syngas
Authors: Luo Lipan , Huang Zhou , Tang Qing
Published: January 2024

The Cr-Fe diatomic catalyst anchored on N-doped graphene is theoretically identified as a promising candidate to promote the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to syngas.
Rational design of single transition-metal atoms anchored on a PtSe2 monolayer as bifunctional OER/ORR electrocatalysts: a defect chemistry and machine learning study
Authors: Yue Shijiao , Li Dongying , Zhang Aodi , Yan Yuli , Yan Hongxia , Feng Zhenzhen , Wang Wentao
Published: January 2024

Design of low overpotential bifunctional OER/ORR electrocatalysts by adjusting the charge states of TM@PtSe2 is a new effective method.
Wadsley–Roth phase CoNb11O29 as a high-performance anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Huaibing , Chen Chunhua
Published: January 2024

In situ XRD confirms the simple solid-solution mechanism of CoNb11O29, and the maximum volume change is only 4.06%.
Photocatalytic activity enhancement with 4-trifluoromethylphenylacetylene-functionalized Cu2O cubes and rhombic dodecahedra from band structure modulation and use in boronic acid hydroxylation
Authors: Chien Kuo-Chang , Yu Wei-Yang , Kao Jui-Cheng , Lo Yu-Chieh , Chou Jyh-Pin , Huang Michael H.
Published: January 2024

4-Trifluoromethylphenylacetylene-functionalized Cu2O cubes and rhombic dodecahedra show greatly enhanced photocatalytic activity from surface band structure change. The modified cubes can photocatalyze arylboronic acid hydroxylation reactions.
Study on 3D printed MXene-berberine-integrated scaffold for photo-activated antibacterial activity and bone regeneration
Authors: Tan Yi , Sun Huan , Lan Yuanchen , Khan Haider Mohammed , Zhang Hui , Zhang Linli , Zhang Fengying , Cui Yujia , Zhang Lan , Huang Dingming , Chen Xinmei , Zhou Changchun , Sun Jianxun , Zhou Xuedong
Published: January 2024

A 3D printed scaffold for photo-activated bacterial eradication and bone regeneration in treating infected mandibular defects.
An autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle exploration platform with a hierarchical control method for post‐disaster infrastructures
Authors: Peng Xin , Su Gaofeng , Sengupta Raja
Published: January 2024

Catastrophic natural disasters like earthquakes can cause infrastructure damage. Emergency response agencies need to assess damage precisely while repeating this process for infrastructures with different shapes and types. The authors aim for an autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platform equipped with a 3D LiDAR sensor to comprehensively and accurately scan the infrastructure and map it with a predefined resolution r. During the inspection, the UAV needs to decide on the Next Best View (NBV) position to maximize the gathered information while avoiding collision at high speed. The authors propose solving this problem by implementing a hierarchical closed‐loop control system consisting of a global planner and a local planner. The global NBV planner decides the general UAV direction based on a history of measurements from the LiDAR sensor, and the local planner considers the UAV dynamics and enables the UAV to fly at high speed with the latest LiDAR measurements. The proposed system is validated through the Regional Scale Autonomous Swarm Damage Assessment simulator, which is built by the authors. Through extensive testing in three unique and highly constrained infrastructure environments, the autonomous UAV inspection system successfully explored and mapped the infrastructures, demonstrating its versatility and applicability across various shapes of infrastructure.
Fuzzy high order differentiator observer based resilient control for distributed battery energy storage systems against unbounded FDI attacks
Authors: Dai Jianfeng , Chen Wenjian , Zhou Xia
Published: January 2024

This paper addresses the issue of frequency recovery in distributed battery energy storage systems (BESSs) and the balancing of the state of charge (SOC) after secondary control inputs have been subjected to false data injection attacks (FDI). A fuzzy high order differentiator (FHOD) observer based distributed resilient control is introduced with the aim of achieving frequency restoration and power adaptive allocation. In order to mitigate the performance degradation caused by the chattering of traditional sliding mode observers, a high order differentiator (HOD) is employed as an observer. By introducing fuzzy control logic to optimize the coefficients of the differentiator, the coefficient of the proposed differentiator is adjusted based on the tracking error, thereby reducing the transient overshoot of the observer when the attack signal changes, which approach effectively balances the response speed and observation accuracy. The simulation outcomes demonstrate that the suggested control strategy is able to mitigate the effects caused by complex and unbounded FDI attacks on the BESSs and exhibits superior transient performance compared to traditional HOD observer in response to changes in attack signal.
OmDet: Large‐scale vision‐language multi‐dataset pre‐training with multimodal detection network
Authors: Zhao Tiancheng , Liu Peng , Lee Kyusong
Published: January 2024

The advancement of object detection (OD) in open‐vocabulary and open‐world scenarios is a critical challenge in computer vision. OmDet, a novel language‐aware object detection architecture and an innovative training mechanism that harnesses continual learning and multi‐dataset vision‐language pre‐training is introduced. Leveraging natural language as a universal knowledge representation, OmDet accumulates “visual vocabularies” from diverse datasets, unifying the task as a language‐conditioned detection framework. The multimodal detection network (MDN) overcomes the challenges of multi‐dataset joint training and generalizes to numerous training datasets without manual label taxonomy merging. The authors demonstrate superior performance of OmDet over strong baselines in object detection in the wild, open‐vocabulary detection, and phrase grounding, achieving state‐of‐the‐art results. Ablation studies reveal the impact of scaling the pre‐training visual vocabulary, indicating a promising direction for further expansion to larger datasets. The effectiveness of our deep fusion approach is underscored by its ability to learn jointly from multiple datasets, enhancing performance through knowledge sharing.
Dynamic investment planning of CVR implementation considering PEVs’ reactive power compensation capability
Authors: Alaei Mohammad Hosein , Latify Mohammad Amin
Published: January 2024

Conservation voltage reduction (CVR) is a strategy that tries to save energy consumption by managing consumers’ voltage. On the other hand, enhancing reactive power compensation in the power system gives rise to CVR implementation more effectively. This paper addresses how the power system planner could encourage investment to establish the above‐mentioned topics. Here, a model for encouraging industrial loads to dynamically invest in implementing the CVR strategy over the planning horizon is presented. To make CVR implementation more efficient, investment in upgrading plug‐in electric vehicles (PEVs) chargers to be utilized as reactive power compensators is also considered. Industrial loads benefit from saving in their electricity bills and incentive payments that might be paid by utilities (if necessary). The objective function of the proposed planning model is to maximize the energy‐saving of industrial loads and to minimize incentive payment by electric utilities over the planning horizon. This objective is achieved subject to that the investment plan is economically feasible. Moreover, power system operation constraints in the planning horizon based on AC power flow equations and voltage‐dependent load models are considered. The proposed planning problem is modelled as a non‐linear optimization problem that can be solved by off‐the‐shelf software, for example, GAMS. The proposed model is applied to the Ontario transmission system. The numerical results show the proposed model's effectiveness in designing an investment plan for industrial loads to implement the CVR strategy and upgrade PEVs’ chargers.
Model moisture transport in oil‐paper insulation of transformer: Theory and experiment
Authors: Zhou Junjie , Wu Zhicheng , Guo Yiran , Zhang Rui , Zhu Wenbing , Zhang Qiaogen
Published: January 2024

The insulation performance of oil paper insulation is significantly affected by moisture such that monitoring moisture content is important. However, it is difficult to obtain the moisture content accurately due to its dynamic change under multi physical fields. Studying the moisture transportation in oil paper insulation under multi physical fields becomes a vital method in solving the problem. A multi physical model describing moisture migration was proposed, which considered the effects of temperature on moisture in different existing states in oil‐immersed paper (OIP). The temperature distribution formed a vapour pressure gradient to drive moisture migration and affected migration speed. Then, experiments and simulations of moisture migration were performed, which showed that the experiments were in good agreement with simulation. The results revealed that the temperature gradient caused uneven moisture distribution and the increased temperature reduced OIP moisture content. The established model could fully characterise moisture migration under temperature gradient, which provided a theoretical reference for predicting the risk of partial dampness and evaluating insulation performance.
Estimation of future hydropower generation of reservoir systems used for different purposes in different regions
Authors: Kilic Murat
Published: January 2024

In recent years, growth in environmental awareness and increasing non‐renewable energy costs have augmented the interest in hydropower generation as a renewable energy. The volume of water stored in a reservoir system is crucial in hydropower production and has deep uncertainty. The subject of this investigation is the estimation of the amount of future hydropower generation in reservoir systems, some of which have multi‐purpose use. This investigation was carried out in Turkey at Atatürk, Keban, Karakaya and Demirköprü Dams. In the estimation of the hydropower generation for future, the decision matrices were devised and run separately for each reservoir system. In the verification of the validity of the model, the amounts of energy generated in reality in the last three years, which were not included in the modelling process, were used for the reservoirs investigated. In the verification process, when the model results and the amounts of energy produced in reality are compared, similar satisfactory results were obtained which are compatible with the properties of the regions where the reservoirs were built. It is expected that the proposed model will provide a decision support tool especially in multi‐objective planning of constrained water resources.
Alkaline Earth Metal Oxide Supported on Zeolite as a Heterogenous Basic Catalyst for Clean Fuel (Biodiesel) Production: A Mini Review
Authors: Ulfa Nurcahyani Maria , Sumari Sumari
Published: January 2024

The depletion of fossil fuel reserves, worsening greenhouse gas effects, and global warming issues have driven the development of renewable energy sources, such as biodiesel. Biodiesel is as an alternative fuel to petrodiesel, typically produced through a transesterification reaction of triglycerides and alcohol in the presence of a catalyst. Alkaline earth metal oxide supported on zeolite are heterogeneous basic catalysts that are widely used in biodiesel synthesis. The addition of alkaline earth metal oxide to zeolite enhances the distribution of active sites, leading to an increase in catalytic activity. Zeolite is widely used as catalyst support due to its high surface area, good thermal stability, shape selectivity, and porous structure. This article presents recent developments in the synthesis and application of alkaline earth metal oxide supported on zeolite for transesterification reaction. The challenges and prospects of catalyst development are also discussed. This article aims to provide information and inspire the development of alkaline earth metal oxide supported on zeolite as a basic catalyst for biodiesel synthesis.
Production of Sodium Lignosulfonate (SLS) Surfactant from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (OPEFB) Using Microwave
Authors: Qadariyah Lailatul , Ramadhan Dhanar , Gusti Ampeldenta
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of using a microwave in synthesizing Sodium Lignosulfonate (SLS) surfactant made of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (OPEFB) which contains lignin as the content to be processed, especially in the sulfonation process. The observed variables are the NaHSO3 concentration ranging from 0.1 M to 0.7 M, reaction time ranging from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, and microwave power ranging from 300 W to 750 W. on the yield and comparing the results of SLS synthesized with microwave to those obtained through conventional heating methods in the sulfonation process. The process encompassed several steps, including drying, milling, delignification, lignin isolation, and sulfonation using microwaves. Afterward, the SLS results were subjected to analysis through FTIR and HLB testing. The findings revealed a positive correlation between NaHSO3 concentration, reaction time, microwave power, and the yield of SLS Product, with the optimal conditions being at the NaHSO3 concentration of 0.7 M, microwave power of 600 W, and reaction time of 75 minutes. Moreover, the microwave method demonstrated greater efficiency in increasing the SLS Product yield by up to 24% compared to the conventional method.
Multi-level computer systems for automation of scientific research
Authors: Kovalev Igor , Losev Vasily , Kovalev Dmitry , Voroshilova Anna
Published: January 2024

The article is devoted to multi-level computer systems used to automate scientific research. The authors show that to automate scientific research, it is important to correctly formulate the composition of hardware and software for experimental installations and test benches. Automation means include structural devices and measuring instruments. Correct functioning of the hardware and software complex ensures the acquisition of new characteristics. The analysis of the values of these characteristics depends directly on the metrological equipment, as well as on computer processing of the measurement results. The automation of scientific research can significantly increase the objectivity and reliability of the results of experimental research, since during research a series of tests are performed. Thus, the computer technologies used make it possible to organize hardware and software support for the automation of scientific research, which ensures, over a fixed period of time, the minimization of measurement errors with limited time resources. Moreover, during this period of time, due to automation, a sufficient amount of data is collected to prove the reliability of the results obtained. This is achieved through the construction of multilevel automation systems with coordination of the work of multiple objects distributed geographically.
Effectiveness of the MineReduce approach in reducing the size of combinatorial optimization problem instances
Authors: de Holanda Maia Marcelo Rodrigues , Plastino Alexandre , dos Santos Souza Uéverton
Published: January 2024

Previous work has shown that the performance of metaheuristics can benefit from using data mining techniques, which can improve the obtained solutions. In a strategy that has been successfully used for over a decade, data mining techniques are applied to extract patterns from good solutions found in the early stages of the heuristic process, and these patterns are introduced into the solutions generated afterwards. Recently, a novel approach that uses data mining for problem size reduction, called MineReduce, has been proposed and achieved even more impressive results in improving metaheuristics. In this work, we apply the MineReduce approach to improve the performance of a multi-start iterated tabu search algorithm. The results show that with the incorporation of the MineReduce approach, the method can obtain better solutions while spending less time. Additionally, we assessed the effectiveness of the size reduction performed by MineReduce, comparing it to a kernelization algorithm. Despite the lack of guarantees on optimality or size-bounding, the reduction carried out by MineReduce was effective in practice.
Surgical Treatment for Primary Lymphedema: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Gaxiola-García Miguel Angel , Escandón Joseph M. , Manrique Oscar J. , Skinner Kristin A. , Kushida-Contreras Beatriz Hatsue
Published: January 2024

This is a retrospective review of surgical management for primary lymphedema.

Data were extracted from 55 articles from PubMed MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials between the database inception and December 2022 to evaluate the outcomes of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT), and outcomes of soft tissue extirpative procedures such as suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) and extensive soft tissue excision.

Data from 485 patients were compiled; these were treated with LVA (n = 177), VLNT (n = 82), SAL (n = 102), and excisional procedures (n = 124). Improvement of the lower extremity lymphedema index, the quality of life (QoL), and lymphedema symptoms were reported in most studies. LVA and VLNT led to symptomatic relief and improved QoL, reaching up to 90 and 61% average circumference reduction, respectively. Cellulitis reduction was reported in 25 and 40% of LVA and VLNT papers, respectively. The extirpative procedures, used mainly in patients with advanced disease, also led to clinical improvement from the volume reduction, as well as reduced incidence of cellulitis, although with poor cosmetic results; 87.5% of these reports recommended postoperative compression garments. The overall complication rates were 1% for LVA, 13% for VLNT, 11% for SAL, and 46% for extirpative procedures. Altogether, only one paper lacked some kind of improvement.

Primary lymphedema is amenable to surgical treatment; the currently performed procedures have effectively improved symptoms and QoL in this population. Complication rates are related to the invasiveness of the chosen procedure.
History of Eugenics in Otorhinolaryngology: Ernst Rüdin and the International Eugenics Network
Authors: Suwa Beato
Published: January 2024

Introduction The early geneticist and psychiatrist Ernst Rüdin (1874–1952) became one of the key figures in the eugenics movement and in the German health system of the Nazi era. His connections in the international eugenics network have played an important role in the history of eugenics.

Objective To discuss the connections between Ernst Rüdin's scientific group in Munich and Otmar von Verschuer's group in Frankfurt during the Nazi era.

Methods Otorhinolaryngological materials from Ernst Rüdin's former private library are presented, and they show Rüdin's deep involvement in the international eugenics network. These materials provide insights into early medical genetics in otorhinolaryngology.

Results One result of the present study is that eugenics groups from Munich, Frankfurt, and New York certainly influenced one another in the field of otorhinolaryngology. Karlheinz Idelberger and Josef Mengele were two scientists who performed hereditary research on orofacial clefts. Later, Mengele became deeply involved in Nazi medical crimes. His former work on orofacial clefts clearly had, to some extent, an influence on subsequent studies.

Conclusion An international eugenics network already existed before 1933. However, it becomes clear that the weaknesses of many early genetic studies did not enable its authors to draw firm scientific conclusions, suggesting that scientists lacked an accurate concept of the genetic causes of most illnesses.
Types of Epiglottic Collapse in Breathing Sleep Disorder and Their Impact in Clinical Practice
Authors: Rachmawati Elvie Zulka Kautzia , Tamin Susyana , Fardizza Fauziah , Yunizaf Rahmanofa , Putranto Fikri Mirza , Rizki Niken Ageng , Wardani Retno S.
Published: January 2024

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a severe form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that is strongly correlated with comorbidities, in which epiglottic collapse (EC) and other contributing factors are involved.

Objectives To evaluate the occurrence of EC in OSA patients through drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and to determine the factors contributing to EC.

Methods A retrospective study of 37 adult patients using medical history. Patients were assessed for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and lingual tonsil hypertrophy (LTH) using reflux symptom index and reflux finding score (RFS); for OSA using polysomnography, and for airway collapse through DISE. An independent t-test was performed to evaluate risk factors, including the involvement of three other airway structures.

Results Most EC patients exhibited trap door epiglottic collapse (TDEC) (56.8%) or pushed epiglottic collapse (PEC) (29.7%). Lingual tonsil hypertrophy, RFS, and respiratory effort-related arousal (RERA) were associated with epiglottic subtypes. Laryngopharyngeal reflux patients confirmed by RFS (t(25) = −1.32, p = 0.197) tended to suffer PEC; LTH was significantly associated (X2(1) = 2.5, p = 0.012) with PEC (odds ratio [OR] value = 44) in grades II and III LTH patients; 11 of 16 TDEC patients had grade I LTH. Pushed epiglottic collapse was more prevalent among multilevel airway obstruction patients. A single additional collapse site was found only in TDEC patients.

Conclusion Laryngopharyngeal reflux causes repetitive acid stress toward lingual tonsils causing LTH, resulting in PEC with grade II or III LTH. Trap door epiglottic collapse requires one additional structural collapse, while at least two additional collapse sites were necessary to develop PEC. Respiratory effort-related arousal values may indicate EC.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Persian Version of the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory
Authors: Sharifi Fardin , Qoreishi Zahra Sadat , Bakhtiyari Jalal , Ebadi Abbas , Houshyari Mohammad , Azghandi Samira
Published: January 2024

Introduction Dysphagia is a common issue in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and is known to negatively impact their quality of life. To evaluate the impact of dysphagia on the quality of life of HNC patients, the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) questionnaire was developed.

Objective The present study aimed to culturally adapt and validate the MDADI for Persian-speaking individuals. The MDADI is a self-administered questionnaire designed to assess the impact of dysphagia on the quality of life of HNC patients.

Methods The original MDADI questionnaire was translated into Persian using the forward-backward method, following the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) for cultural adaptation. The content validity of the Persian version, MDADI-P, was assessed by 10 speech-language pathologists using the content validity index (CVI). Seventy-five HNC patients completed the MDADI-P to evaluate its convergent validity, which was determined by comparing the results with the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed using Cronbach α coefficient and intraclass correlation (ICC), respectively.

Results The scale content validity index (S-CVI) for the MDADI-P was 0.90, indicating good content validity. The MDADI-P demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach α coefficient = 0.728) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.91). The total MDADI-P score exhibited a significant correlation with the physical and mental components of the SF-36 (0.456 and 0.349, respectively, p < 0.05).

Conclusion The findings of the present study confirm the suitability of the MDADI-P in terms of content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability.
Brief Psychoeducational and Cognitive Therapy for Nightmare Disorder (BPCT-ND)
Authors: Álvarez-García Horacio Balam , Jiménez-Correa Ulises
Published: January 2024

In adults, nightmare disorder is related to sleep deprivation, drug consumption or abuse, or other comorbid sleep disorders such as insomnia or insufficient sleep syndrome. Behavioral treatment has solid scientific evidence in disorders such as insomnia and, more recently, parasomnias. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical effectiveness of a Brief Behavioral Telemedicine Therapy in Nightmare Disorder in a 23-year-old female patient. The procedure consisted of the case study, with pre and posttreatment measures as well as follow-up after 1 month; and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Paris Arousal Disorders Severity Scale, and a sleep diary were applied. In parallel with changes recorded in the sleep diary, a decrease in nightmares, sleepiness, and insomnia symptoms was observed when the intervention was finished. The behavioral intervention was clinically effective; therefore, the present case report provides information on behavioral treatments for nightmare disorder.
Primary Arthroscopy-Assisted Foveal Repair of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Associated with Acute Distal Radius Fractures in Young Adults
Authors: Park Jinsik , Gil Young-Woon , Lee Young Seok , Lee Chang-Hun
Published: January 2024

Background In distal radius fractures (DRFs) occurring in nonosteoporotic age groups, it is known that triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries are frequently combined, with some experiencing persistent symptomatic instability. However, a gold standard treatment for these associated lesions has not yet been established.

Purpose Our purpose was to investigate the outcomes of primary arthroscopy-assisted transosseous foveal repair of the TFCC associated with DRFs in young adults.

Methods Fifteen patients aged <65 years who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for DRF and arthroscopy-assisted repair for foveal tear of the TFCC were included. Those patients were observed to have complete peripheral TFCC tear on preoperative wrist magnetic resonance imaging and intraoperative distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability tests. This was confirmed with an arthroscopic examination. The transosseous technique was used to repair the TFCC after firm fixation of the DRF. The patients were immobilized with the long-arm splint in a neutral position for 2 weeks postoperatively and a removable short-arm splint was applied for another 2 weeks. DRUJ stability, grip strength, and patient-reported outcomes, including disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation scores, were evaluated as primary outcomes at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

Results All patients showed a stable DRUJ throughout the follow-up period. The average grip strength ratio compared to the unaffected side was 69, 83, and 90% at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, respectively. The mean DASH score was 26.9, 18.4, and 6.7 at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, respectively.

Conclusion Primary arthroscopy-assisted transosseous foveal repair of the TFCC with internal fixation of the distal radius resulted in early recovery and good clinical outcomes in young patients.

Level of evidence Therapeutic, level IV.
RF spectra induced by different polarized microwave
Authors: You Shu Hang , Cai Ming Hao , Zhang Hao An , Song Zhen Fei , Liu Hongping
Published: January 2024

Electric field measurement techniques based on Rydberg atoms have proven to have unique advantages in high sensitivity and have drawn wide attention in microwave electric field metrology and communication. The Rydberg states employed for microwave sensing are usually excited by two- or three-step laser irradiation. It leads to the Rydberg atoms being populated by some specific magnetic quantum number states determined by the laser polarization configurations, whose further coupling to another Rydberg state is also constrained by the microwave polarization. Based on a three-laser optical excitation, we demonstrate this effect on the microwave spectra of the 85Rb transitions 41F7/2 → 42D5/2 and 41F7/2 → 41G7/2 at various combining polarization configurations. It shows a strong polarization dependence on the microwave spectrum and then affects the sensitivity of Rydberg atom-based microwave field sensing. Advisable polarization schemes for higher sensitivity are suggested by the two types of transitions.