bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Lagrangian Multiplier Update Algorithm for Short-Term Hydro-Thermal Coordination
Authors: Bento P. M. R. , Mariano S. J. P. S. , Calado M. R. A. , Ferreira L. A. F. M.
Published: December 2020

The backbone of a conventional electrical power generation system relies on hydro-thermal coordination. Due to its intrinsic complex, large-scale and constrained nature, the feasibility of a direct approach is reduced. With this limitation in mind, decomposition methods, particularly Lagrangian relaxation, constitutes a consolidated choice to “simplify” the problem. Thus, translating a relaxed problem approach indirectly leads to solutions of the primal problem. In turn, the dual problem is solved iteratively, and Lagrange multipliers are updated between each iteration using subgradient methods. However, this class of methods presents a set of sensitive aspects that often require time-consuming tuning tasks or to rely on the dispatchers’ own expertise and experience. Hence, to tackle these shortcomings, a novel Lagrangian multiplier update adaptative algorithm is proposed, with the aim of automatically adjust the step-size used to update Lagrange multipliers, therefore avoiding the need to pre-select a set of parameters. A results comparison is made against two traditionally employed step-size update heuristics, using a real hydrothermal scenario derived from the Portuguese power system. The proposed adaptive algorithm managed to obtain improved performances in terms of the dual problem, thereby reducing the duality gap with the optimal primal problem.
A Review on Deep Learning Models for Forecasting Time Series Data of Solar Irradiance and Photovoltaic Power
Authors: Rajagukguk Rial A. , Ramadhan Raden A. A. , Lee Hyun-Jin
Published: December 2020

Presently, deep learning models are an alternative solution for predicting solar energy because of their accuracy. The present study reviews deep learning models for handling time-series data to predict solar irradiance and photovoltaic (PV) power. We selected three standalone models and one hybrid model for the discussion, namely, recurrent neural network (RNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), gated recurrent unit (GRU), and convolutional neural network-LSTM (CNN–LSTM). The selected models were compared based on the accuracy, input data, forecasting horizon, type of season and weather, and training time. The performance analysis shows that these models have their strengths and limitations in different conditions. Generally, for standalone models, LSTM shows the best performance regarding the root-mean-square error evaluation metric (RMSE). On the other hand, the hybrid model (CNN–LSTM) outperforms the three standalone models, although it requires longer training data time. The most significant finding is that the deep learning models of interest are more suitable for predicting solar irradiance and PV power than other conventional machine learning models. Additionally, we recommend using the relative RMSE as the representative evaluation metric to facilitate accuracy comparison between studies.
A Portable System for the Evaluation of the Degree of Pollution of Transmission Line Insulators
Authors: Petri Lucas de Paula Santos , Moutinho Emanuel Antonio , Silva Rondinele Pinheiro , Capelini Renato Massoni , Salustiano Rogério , Ferraz Guilherme Martinez Figueiredo , Neto Estácio Tavares Wanderley , Villibor Jansen Paula , Pinto Suzana Silva
Published: December 2020

Surface pollution is a major cause of partial discharges in high voltage insulators in coastal cities, leading to degradation of their surface and accelerating their aging process, which may cause visible arcing, flashovers and system faults. Thus, this work provides a methodology for the assessment of the condition of insulators based on an instrument which generates a severity degree to help the electric utility team schedule maintenance routines for the structures that really need it. The instrument uses a Raspberry Pi board as the processing core, a PicoScope oscilloscope for the data acquisition and an antenna as a partial discharge sensor. The algorithms are implemented in Python, and use artificial intelligence tools, such as a convolutional network and a fuzzy inference system. Laboratory test methods for the simulation of the field pollution conditions were successfully used for the validation of the instrument, which showed a good correlation between the pollution level and the severity degree generated. In addition to that, field collected data were also used for the evaluation of the proposed severity degree, which is demonstrated to be consistent when compared with the utility’s reports and the history of the selected areas from where data were collected.
Realization of 485 Level Inverter Using Tri-State Architecture for Renewable Energy Systems
Authors: Loganathan Vijayaraja , Srinivasan Ganesh Kumar , Rivera Marco
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a ‘k’-state inverter producing a higher number of voltage levels was designed, and we studied the inverter’s working. Further, a tri-state inverter was derived from the ‘k’-state inverter, which could build a maximum number of output voltage levels with the requirement of fewer components, thereby reducing the cost and size. A single Tri-state architecture generates three direct current (D.C.) voltage levels; therefore, cascading five tri-state architectures can generate 242 levels of DC voltages. Further, the inversion is done via the H bridge, which leads to 485 levels of the output voltage. Algorithms to design the amplitude of voltage sources and the generation of pulses are discussed in this paper. The proposed tri-state inverter takes a significant role in advancing renewable energy systems in utilizing inverter technology. A simulation study validated the operation of the proposed inverter. Moreover, an experimental setup was built for a single-phase 485-level inverter, and the structure’s performance was verified through the experimental results.
Optimal Battery Storage Participation in European Energy and Reserves Markets
Authors: Pandžić Kristina , Pavić Ivan , Andročec Ivan , Pandžić Hrvoje
Published: December 2020

Battery energy storage is becoming an important asset in modern power systems. Considering the market prices and battery storage characteristics, reserve provision is a tempting play fields for such assets. This paper aims at filling the gap by developing a mathematically rigorous model and applying it to the existing and future electricity market design in Europe. The paper presents a bilevel model for optimal battery storage participation in day-ahead energy market as a price taker, and reserve capacity and activation market as a price maker. It uses an accurate battery charging model to reliably represent the behavior of real-life lithium-ion battery storage. The proposed bilevel model is converted into a mixed-integer linear program by using the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker optimality conditions. The case study uses real-life data on reserve capacity and activation costs and quantities in German markets. The reserves activation quantities and activation prices are modeled by a set of credible scenarios in the lower-level problem. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to comprehend to what extent do battery storage bidding prices affect its overall profit.
Thermodynamic Analysis of a High-Temperature Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage System
Authors: MacPhee David W. , Erguvan Mustafa
Published: December 2020

Thermal energy storage (TES) technologies are becoming vitally important due to intermittency of renewable energy sources in solar applications. Since high energy density is an important parameter in TES systems, latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) system is a common way to store thermal energy. Though there are a great number of experimental studies in the field of LHTES systems, utilizing computational codes can yield relatively quick analyses with relatively small expense. In this study, a numerical investigation of a LHTES system has been studied using ANSYS FLUENT. Results are validated with experiments, using hydroquinone as a phase-change material (PCM), which is external to Therminol VP-1 as a heat transfer fluid (HTF) contained in pipes. Energy efficiency and entropy generation are investigated for different tube/pipe geometries with a constant PCM volume. HTF inlet temperature and flow rate impacts on the thermodynamic efficiencies are examined including viscous dissipation effects. Highest efficiency and lowest entropy generation cases exist when when flow rates are lowest due to low viscous heating effects. A positive relation is found between energy efficiency and volume ratio while it differs for entropy generation for higher and lower velocities. Both efficiency and entropy generation decreased with decreasing HTF inlet temperature. The novelty of this study is the analysis of the effect of volume ratio on system performance and PCM melting time which ultimately proved to be the most dominant factor among those considered herein. However, as PCM solidification and melting time is of primary importance to system designers, simply minimizing entropy generation by decreasing volume ratio in this case does not lead to a practically optimal system, merely to decrease heat transfer entropy generation. Therefore, caution should be taken when applying entropy analyses to any LHTES storage system as entropy minimization methods may not be appropriate for practicality purposes.
Experimental Characterization and Evaluation of the Vibroacoustic Field of Hydraulic Pumps: The Case of an External Gear Pump
Authors: Woo Sangbeom , Vacca Andrea
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the experimental characterization of the vibroacoustic fields and the evaluation of noise performances of hydraulic pumps. Research on hydraulic pump noise has traditionally focused on the fluid-borne noise sources, and very often the analyses of vibration and noise have been performed focusing on a few local points. This trend results in the lack of investigation on the overall behaviors of vibroacoustic fields of hydraulic pumps, and it has been one of the obstacles to understand the complete mechanisms of noise generation. Moreover, despite the existence of the ISO standards for the determination of noise levels, diverse metrics have been used for the evaluation of noise performances of the pumps, but the adequacy of these metrics has not been carefully examined. In this respect, this paper aims at introducing a way to characterize and interpret the measured vibroacoustic field and providing proper methods which are also capable of applying the ISO standards for the fair assessment of pump noise performances. For the characterization of the vibroacoustic field, operational deflection shapes (ODS) and corresponding radiated sound fields are visualized at harmonics of the pumping frequency by using a spectral analysis. Observations are made regarding the motions of the pump and its mounting plate and the resultant radiated noise, depending on the frequency, as well as their correlation. A numerical analysis using the Rayleigh integral equation is also performed to further investigate the contribution of the mounting plate motion on the noise radiation. For the evaluation of noise performance, two different units are tested at multiple operating conditions, and comparisons are made based on their measured sound power levels (SWLs) and sound pressure levels (SPLs). The results emphasize the importance of SWL measurement for the fair noise performance evaluation, and the two methods are proposed as practices to determine the minimum number of measurement points for practicability and to have reliable sound power determination for hydraulic pumps.
An Active FTC Strategy Using Generalized Proportional Integral Observers Applied to Five-Phase PMSG based Tidal Current Energy Conversion Systems
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Houari Azeddine , Machmoum Mohamed , Benkhoris Mohamed-Fouad , Tang Tianhao
Published: December 2020

In recent years, multi-phase permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs) have become attractive in the field of tidal current energy conversion systems (TCECS) due to their high-power density, reliability, and availability. However, external disturbances and malfunctions in power conversion chains will bring challenges to achieving stable and continuous tidal current energy harnessing. Using generalized proportional integral observers, an active fault-tolerant control (AFTC) strategy is therefore proposed for a five-phase PMSG based TCECS that is subjected to an open switch fault (OSF) in the generator side converter. This proposed AFTC strategy is applied into q-axis current control loops, which contain fault detection and compensation. The fault compensator will be smoothly activated using a sigmoid function once the OSF is detected. Finally, a small-scale power experimental platform emulating the TCECS is established in order to verify the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed FTC strategy. Experiment results show that this AFTC strategy can detect faults rapidly and effectively attenuate torque ripples in the post-fault operation mode.
Asymmetrical Thermal Boundary Condition Influence on the Flow Structure and Heat Transfer Performance of Paramagnetic Fluid-Forced Convection in the Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Pleskacz Lukasz , Fornalik-Wajs Elzbieta , Gurgul Sebastian
Published: December 2020

Continuous interest in space journeys opens the research fields, which might be useful in non-terrestrial conditions. Due to the lack of the gravitational force, there will be a need to force the flow for mixing or heat transfer. Strong magnetic field offers the conditions, which can help to obtain the flow. In light of this origin, presented paper discusses the dually modified Graetz-Brinkman problem. The modifications were related to the presence of the magnetic field influencing the flow and asymmetrical thermal boundary condition. Dimensionless numerical analysis was performed, and two dimensionless numbers (magnetic Grashof number and magnetic Richardson number) were defined for paramagnetic fluid flow. The results revealed the heat transfer enhancement due to the strong magnetic field influence accompanied by possible but not essential flow structure modifications. On the other hand, the flow structure changes can be utilized to prevent the solid particles’ sedimentation. The explanation of the heat transfer enhancement including energy budget and vorticity distribution was presented.
Fractional-Fractal Modeling of Filtration-Consolidation Processes in Saline Saturated Soils
Authors: Bohaienko Vsevolod , Bulavatsky Volodymyr
Published: December 2020

To study the peculiarities of anomalous consolidation processes in saturated porous (soil) media in the conditions of salt transfer, we present a new mathematical model developed on the base of the fractional-fractal approach that allows considering temporal non-locality of transfer processes in media of fractal structure. For the case of the finite thickness domain with permeable boundaries, a finite-difference technique for numerical solution of the corresponding one-dimensional non-linear boundary value problem is developed. The paper also presents a fractional-fractal model of a filtration-consolidation process in clay soils of fractal structure saturated with salt solutions. An analytical solution is found for the corresponding one-dimensional boundary value problem in the domain of finite thickness with permeable upper and impermeable lower boundaries.
Respiratory Health and Urinary Trace Metals among Artisanal Stone-Crushers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Authors: Kayembe-Kitenge Tony , Kabange Umba Irene , Musa Obadia Paul , Mbuyi-Musanzayi Sebastien , Nkulu Banza Patient , Katoto Patrick D. M. C. , Katshiez Nawej Cyrille , Kalenga Ilunga Georges , Haufroid Vincent , Banza Lubaba Nkulu Célestin , Nawrot Tim , Nemery Benoit
Published: December 2020

Background: Thousands of artisanal workers are exposed to mineral dusts from various origins in the African Copperbelt. We determined the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, and urinary metals among artisanal stone-crushers in Lubumbashi. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 48 male artisanal stone-crushers and 50 male taxi-drivers using a standardized questionnaire and spirometry. Concentrations of trace metals were measured by Inductively Coupled - Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) in urine spot samples. Results: Urinary Co, Ni, As, and Se were higher in stone-crushers than in control participants. Wheezing was more prevalent (p = 0.021) among stone-crushers (23%) than among taxi-drivers (6%). In multiple logistic regression analysis, the job of a stone-crusher was associated to wheezing (adjusted Odds Ratio 4.45, 95% Confidence Interval 1.09–18.24). Stone-crushers had higher values (% predicted) than taxi-drivers for Forced Vital Capacity (105.4 ± 15.9 vs. 92.2 ± 17.8, p = 0.048), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (104.4 ± 13.7 vs. 88.0 ± 19.6, p = 0.052), and Maximum Expiratory Flow at 25% of the Forced Vital Capacity (79.0.1 ± 20.7 vs. 55.7 ± 30.1, p = 0.078). Conclusion: Stone-crushers were more heavily exposed to mineral dust and various trace elements than taxi-drivers, and they had a fourfold increased risk of reporting wheezing, but they did not have evidence of more respiratory impairment than taxi-drivers.
Are Physicians in Saudi Arabia Ready for Patients with an Insulin Pump? An Examination of Physician Knowledge and Attitude
Authors: Alaqeel Aqeel , Almushaigeh Abdulaziz , Almijmaj Muna , Almesned Raghad , Alsuhaibani Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Aims: The use of insulin pump therapy in patients with diabetes continues to expand worldwide. Although insulin pumps have been demonstrated to be successful and safe, physicians’ insufficient knowledge may carry a risk to the patients using insulin pumps. This study aimed to assess the attitude and knowledge among physicians in Saudi Arabia regarding insulin pump therapy. Methods: Three hundred and seven physicians, including 82 family physicians, 76 pediatricians, 48 internists, 27 pediatric endocrinologists, 17 adult endocrinologists, and 57 physicians from other specialties, completed a questionnaire that evaluated their knowledge and attitude toward insulin pump therapy. Results: Among the evaluated physicians, 56.7% had poor knowledge level, while 53.4% had positive attitude. Statistical tests revealed that older age, years of practice, consultancy, and endocrinology specialty were the influential factors of knowledge (p < 0.001). Non-endocrinologists demonstrated poor knowledge despite seeing patients with insulin pumps; however, those who had previously cared for such patients scored significantly higher knowledge scores. Conclusions: There was a significant lack of knowledge among physicians regarding insulin pump therapy; however, the perceived attitude of physicians toward this therapy was deemed positive. These findings support the implementation of insulin pump education programs.
Africans Who Arrive in the United States before 20 Years of Age Maintain Both Cardiometabolic Health and Cultural Identity: Insight from the Africans in America Study
Authors: Shoup Elyssa M. , Hormenu Thomas , Osei-Tutu Nana H. , Ishimwe M. C. Sage , Patterson Arielle C. , DuBose Christopher W. , Wentzel Annemarie , Horlyck-Romanovsky Margrethe F. , Sumner Anne E.
Published: December 2020

The overall consensus is that foreign-born adults who come to America age < 20 y achieve economic success but develop adverse behaviors (smoking and drinking) that lead to worse cardiometabolic health than immigrants who arrive age ≥ 20 y. Whether age of immigration affects the health of African-born Blacks living in America is unknown. Our goals were to examine cultural identity, behavior, and socioeconomic factors and determine if differences exist in the cardiometabolic health of Africans who immigrated to America before and after age 20 y. Of the 482 enrollees (age: 38 ± 1 (mean ± SE), range: 20–65 y) in the Africans in America cohort, 23% (111/482) arrived age < 20 y, and 77% (371/482) arrived age ≥ 20 y. Independent of francophone status or African region of origin, Africans who immigrated age < 20 y had similar or better cardiometabolic health than Africans who immigrated age ≥ 20 y. The majority of Africans who immigrated age < 20 y identified as African, had African-born spouses, exercised, did not adopt adverse health behaviors, and actualized early life migration advantages, such as an American university education. Due to maintenance of cultural identity and actualization of opportunities in America, cardiometabolic health may be protected in Africans who immigrate before age 20. In short, immigrant health research must be cognizant of the diversity within the foreign-born community and age of immigration.
Factors Affecting the Competence of Nursing Assistants in Taiwan Long-Term Care Institutions
Authors: Cheng Tsai-Jung , Hsu Yi-Min , Tsai Tung-Han , Chen Ming-Yu , Tsay Shwu-Feng , Shieh Shwn-Huey
Published: December 2020

With the increasing number of people with disabilities caused by an aging global population, the need for long-term care is gradually increasing. Nursing assistants (NAs) are the primary providers of direct care services to older adults with disabilities, whose knowledge, skills, and beliefs affect the quality of care provided. This study aimed to investigate the influential factors affecting NAs’ current competences. A total of 255 NAs’ valid questionnaires were collected from 20 long-term care institutions in Taiwan through convenience sampling. The questionnaire comprised dimensions of demographics and care competence. The study results indicated that NAs had the greatest care competence in the domain of recognition of patient rights (4.64 ± 0.54 points). The multiple regression indicated that age, religion, job category, disability care experience, the receiving of performance bonuses, and the receiving of year-end bonuses significantly affected the level of care competence (p < 0.05). With the aforementioned findings, the results of this study serve as references for the government in employing long-term care NAs and developing management policies. Training programs for NAs should be developed to improve the quality of care provided to older adults with disabilities.
In-and-Out of Tobacco Farming: Shifting Behavior of Tobacco Farmers in Indonesia
Authors: Sahadewo Gumilang Aryo , Drope Jeffrey , Li Qing , Witoelar Firman , Lencucha Raphael
Published: December 2020

Understanding the variables that affect farmers’ decisions as to whether to grow tobacco and/or other crops provides important insights into their economic lives and can help to inform the development and implementation of policies that shape both tobacco production and tobacco control, such as increasing tobacco excise taxes. This study employs complementary quantitative and qualitative methodologies to identify variables that affect tobacco farmers’ economic decision making in Indonesia, a major tobacco producer. The research focuses on the variables that affect tobacco farmers’ decisions to continue tobacco farming or shift to non-tobacco farming. It finds that tobacco farmers’ decision making is complex but also predictable. The results of the quantitative analysis suggest that farming profits and positive rainfall shocks are two of the key variables that affect the decision to cultivate tobacco. The qualitative results confirm these findings and further illuminate that access to credit, education (agricultural and otherwise) and information play substantial roles in farmers’ economic decision making. Most of these variables are affected by the unequal relationship between the tobacco firms that buy tobacco and the farmers, wherein the farmers are consistently at a disadvantage in terms of negotiating key parameters such as prices and evaluation of leaf quality.
Psychological Health and Physical Activity Levels during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Violant-Holz Verónica , Gallego-Jiménez M. Gloria , González-González Carina S. , Muñoz-Violant Sarah , Rodríguez Manuel José , Sansano-Nadal Oriol , Guerra-Balic Myriam
Published: December 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has been devastating in all senses, particularly psychologically. Physical activity (PA) is known to aid psychological well-being, and it is worth investigating whether PA has been a coping strategy during this pandemic. The objective of this literature review is to analyze the extent to which engaging in PA during the COVID-19 pandemic impacts psychological health in the adult population. The literature was searched in all databases from the EBSCOhost Research Database—MEDLINE, APA PsycArticles, between others—published between 1 January 2019 and 15 July 2020. From 180 articles found, 15 were eligible. The reviewed articles showed an association between mental health distress—e.g., stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, social isolation, psychological distress—and PA. This research concludes that the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown measures caused psychological distress. Those studies that analyzed PA showed that, during quarantine, adults increased their sedentary time and reduced their PA levels, showing controversial psychological outcomes. This review discusses whether PA is an effective strategy to face the COVID-19 pandemic psychological effects contributing to a further putative increase in the prevalence of psychiatric disorders.
Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training on Healthcare Professionals’ Mental Health: Results from a Pilot Study Testing Its Predictive Validity in a Specialized Hospital Setting
Authors: Janssen Math , Van der Heijden Beatrice , Engels Josephine , Korzilius Hubert , Peters Pascale , Heerkens Yvonne
Published: December 2020

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training and to examine positive and negative symptom-focused mental health variables. The mental health variables were used to test the predictive validity of the training among healthcare professionals. Thirty healthcare professionals participated in this non-randomized pre-post intervention pilot study. The questionnaire on mental health was filled in twice. Baseline and post-intervention differences were tested with paired samples t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. The participants’ evaluation of the training was assessed with a five-item questionnaire. The recruitment and retention were successful, and participants’ evaluation of the training itself was positive but the influence on daily life was rated only moderately positive. In comparison with baseline at post-intervention participants showed significant improvements in general mindfulness, the burnout dimension personal accomplishment, quality of sleep, positive emotions, and self-efficacy. A significant decrease was found in the burnout dimension emotional exhaustion, stress level, negative emotions at work, and worrying. No significant changes were found for the burnout dimension mental distance, and work engagement. The measures showed ample within-person differences and low, medium, or high effect sizes. The current trial approach of the MBSR training seems feasible and acceptable. Our results suggest that mindfulness, burnout, stress level, quality of sleep, positive emotions at work, negative emotions at work, self-efficacy, and worrying are meaningful mental health variables for inclusion in a larger-scale Randomized Controlled Trial on the effects of MBSR.
Eat Healthy to Live Healthy: Habits and Trends
Authors: Di Mauro Antonio , Baldassarre Maria Elisabetta , Laforgia Nicola
Published: December 2020

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Multi-Year Examination of School-Based Programs in Preventing Childhood Obesity: A Case of a State Policy in the U.S.
Authors: Jang Chang-Yong , Gim Nam-Gyeong , Kim Yoonhee , Kim TaeEung
Published: December 2020

This study examined the association between the obesogenic factors and the risk of suffering from weight excess in school-based state programs regarding physical activity, physical education, nutrition standards, and nutrition education in preventing childhood obesity. Data were drawn from the 1999–2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey in the State of Mississippi (N = 8862; grades 9–12). Logistic regression with year-fixed effects was performed to capture the influence of the legislation on teenage obesity, controlling for demographics and nutrition- and physical activity-related behaviors. The age-, sex-, and ethnicity-adjusted mean of the body mass index had reduced since 2007 (year 1999: 23.52; year 2001: 23.53; year 2003: 23.76; year 2007: 24.26; year 2009: 24.29; and year 2011: 23.91). The legislation was significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of being overweight (year 2007, odds ratio (OR) = 0.686; year 2009, OR = 0.739; and year 2011, OR = 0.760; all p < 0.01). Children who were more sedentary, more frequently fasted to lose weight, and were less physically active and likelier to be overweight (OR = 1.05, 1.37, and 0.97, respectively; all p < 0.05), as were African-American children (OR = 0.64; p < 0.05) and female students (OR = 1.59; p < 0.05). In conclusion, schools are among the most easily modifiable settings for preventing childhood obesity and reducing its prevalence, with the implementation of physical activity and nutritional policies.
CBCT and Intra-Oral Scanner: The Advantages of 3D Technologies in Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Impellizzeri Alessandra , Horodynski Martina , De Stefano Adriana , Palaia Gaspare , Polimeni Antonella , Romeo Umberto , Guercio-Monaco Elisabeth , Galluccio Gabriella
Published: December 2020

Background: The aim is to demonstrate the validity of the monitoring through intraoral scanner of the dental movements and the real impact, advantages, and convenience, in terms of treatment time and efficiency gain, to frequently monitor a patient with the scanner application. Methods: A movement control of palatally impacted canines was performed, surgically treated with laser opercolectomy. Three-dimensional models of the patient’s dental arch were obtained with intraoral scanner during a monitoring time of 4 months. The STL (Standard Triangle Language) files were superimposed with the 3D models extrapolated from the pre-operative CT (Computerized Tomography). The measurements of eruption, exposed palatal and vestibular areas, and distances between the canines and the incisors were performed, using digital technologies and with a digital caliber. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis of the data obtained from both conventional and digital monitoring has been realized and performing the T Student Test for paired data. Conclusion: The advantages of digital monitoring are numerous, like the possibility to reduce the error of method caused by manual measurement on plaster casts and the possibility to compare the pattern and amount of eruption of the canine in the same patient overtime.
The Effects of Milk and Dairy Products on Sleep: A Systematic Review
Authors: Komada Yoko , Okajima Isa , Kuwata Tamotsu
Published: December 2020

Several studies have assessed the effects of milk and dairy product intake on sleep quality and duration. Such investigations have varied in terms of their geographic locations, amounts of milk and dairy products, study participants (age, sex, race), and study designs. The present study aimed to summarize this literature and provide a unified view on whether the intake of milk and dairy products affects sleep quality. This systematic review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The following keywords were chosen as electronic database search items from MeSH (medical subject headings) terms and descriptors in health sciences (DeHS) lists: milk, yogurt, dairy product, cheese, sleep, human, observational study, and interventional study. As a result, a total of 14 studies published between 1972 and 2019 were included in this review, including eight randomized controlled trials, two experimental studies with cross-over designs, one longitudinal study, and three cross-sectional studies. Four studies targeted older adults, three included toddlers, two targeted children, and six enrolled adults inclusive of university students. Overall, these studies indicated that a well-balanced diet that includes milk and dairy products is effective in improving sleep quality, despite mixed results across studies attributable to differences in study populations and methods.
Oral Health Profiles and Related Quality of Life in Thalassemia Children in Relation to Iron Overload: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fadel Hani T. , Zolaly Mohammed A. , Alharbi Manal O. , Qarah Lujain A. , Alrehili Maher S. , Alamri Abdulaziz D. , Tarawah Ahmed M.
Published: December 2020

The aim was to assess the oral health of children with β-thalassemia major (BTM) and their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in relation to the serum ferritin level (SFL). Thirty-nine children with BTM underwent an interview, salivary sampling and an oral clinical examination. The Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) was used to assess their OHRQoL. The mean age of the participants was 9 ± 3 years, with 62% females. The body mass index and salivary secretion rate were within normal ranges. The mean plaque index, gingival bleeding index and number of decayed, missing and filled tooth surfaces were 70 ± 29, 38 ± 25 and 3.2 ± 4, respectively, with no significant differences between individuals with SFL below or above 2000 ng/mL (p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in any of the ECOHIS questions (p > 0.05). The mean ECOHIS score was 4.2 ± 4. Individuals with SFL ≥2000 ng/mL had a significantly higher mean score in the family domain “Parent Distress” than those with lower SFL (p ≤ 0.05). Within the study limits, children with β-thalassemia major generally had high dental caries experience and gingival inflammation, yet an acceptable OHRQoL. Those with high SFL had less favorable scores in the domain “Parent Distress”.
Comprehensive Mutational and Phenotypic Characterization of New Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines Reveal Novel Drug Susceptibilities
Authors: Perry Jay , Ashford Bruce , Thind Amarinder Singh , Gauthier Marie-Emilie , Minaei Elahe , Major Gretel , Iyer Narayanan Gopalakrishna , Gupta Ruta , Clark Jonathan , Ranson Marie
Published: December 2020

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a common skin cancer. Most patients who develop metastases (2–5%) present with advanced disease that requires a combination of radical surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy. There are few effective therapies for refractory disease. In this study, we describe novel patient-derived cell lines from cSCC metastases of the head and neck (designated UW-CSCC1 and UW-CSCC2). The cell lines genotypically and phenotypically resembled the original patient tumor and were tumorogenic in mice. Differences in cancer-related gene expression between the tumor and cell lines after various culturing conditions could be largely reversed by xenografting and reculturing. The novel drug susceptibilities of UW-CSCC1 and an irradiated subclone UW-CSCC1-R to drugs targeting cell cycle, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and DNA damage pathways were observed using high-throughput anti-cancer and kinase-inhibitor compound libraries, which correlate with either copy number variations, targetable mutations and/or the upregulation of gene expression. A secondary screen of top hits in all three cell lines including PIK3CA-targeting drugs supports the utility of targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in this disease. UW-CSCC cell lines are thus useful preclinical models for determining targetable pathways and candidate therapeutics.
Antimicrobial and Amyloidogenic Activity of Peptides. Can Antimicrobial Peptides Be Used against SARS-CoV-2?
Authors: Kurpe Stanislav R. , Grishin Sergei Yu. , Surin Alexey K. , Panfilov Alexander V. , Slizen Mikhail V. , Chowdhury Saikat D. , Galzitskaya Oxana V.
Published: December 2020

At present, much attention is paid to the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) of natural and artificial origin to combat pathogens. AMPs have several points that determine their biological activity. We analyzed the structural properties of AMPs, as well as described their mechanism of action and impact on pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Recently published data on the development of new AMP drugs based on a combination of molecular design and genetic engineering approaches are presented. In this article, we have focused on information on the amyloidogenic properties of AMP. This review examines AMP development strategies from the perspective of the current high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and the potential prospects and challenges of using AMPs against infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
Pharmacological Approaches to Controlling Cardiometabolic Risk in Women with PCOS
Authors: Cignarella Andrea , Mioni Roberto , Sabbadin Chiara , Dassie Francesca , Parolin Matteo , Vettor Roberto , Barbot Mattia , Scaroni Carla
Published: December 2020

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by elevated androgen production and subclinical changes in cardiovascular and metabolic risk markers. Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, fasting glucose, and fasting insulin appear to increase specifically in PCOS compared with fertile women. PCOS also confers an increased risk of cardiometabolic disease in later life. Novel biomarkers such as serum’s cholesterol efflux capacity and blood-derived macrophage activation profile may assist in more accurately defining the cardiometabolic risk profile in these women. Aldosterone antagonists, androgen receptor antagonists, 5α-reductase inhibitors, and synthetic progestogens are used to reduce hyperandrogenism. Because increased insulin secretion enhances ovarian androgen production, short-term treatment with metformin and other hypoglycemic agents results in significant weight loss, favorable metabolic changes, and testosterone reduction. The naturally occurring inositols display insulin-sensitizing effects and may be also used in this context because of their safety profile. Combined oral contraceptives represent the drug of choice for correction of androgen-related symptoms. Overall, PCOS management remains focused on specific targets including assessment and treatment of cardiometabolic risk, according to disease phenotypes. While new options are adding to established therapeutic approaches, a sometimes difficult balance between efficacy and safety of available medications has to be found in individual women.
TGF-β Serum Levels in Diabetic Retinopathy Patients and the Role of Anti-VEGF Therapy
Authors: Bonfiglio Vincenza , Platania Chiara Bianca Maria , Lazzara Francesca , Conti Federica , Pizzo Corrado , Reibaldi Michele , Russo Andrea , Fallico Matteo , Ortisi Elina , Pignatelli Francesco , Longo Antonio , Avitabile Teresio , Drago Filippo , Bucolo Claudio
Published: December 2020

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR), particularly in the late phase of disease. The aim of the present study was to validate serum TGFβ1 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of DR stages. Thirty-eight subjects were enrolled and, after diagnosis and evaluation of inclusion and exclusion criteria, were assigned to six groups: (1) healthy age-matched control, (2) diabetic without DR, (3) non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) naïve to treatment, (4) NPDR treated with intravitreal (IVT) aflibercept, (5) proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) naïve to treatment and (6) PDR treated with IVT aflibercept. Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), placental growth factor (PlGF) and TGFβ1 were measured by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Foveal macular thickness (FMT) in enrolled subjects was evaluated by means of structural-optical coherence tomography (S-OCT). VEGF-A serum levels decreased in NPDR and PDR patients treated with aflibercept, compared to naïve DR patients. PlGF serum levels were modulated only in aflibercept-treated NPDR patients. Particularly, TGFβ1 serum levels were predictive of disease progression from NPDR to PDR. A Multivariate ANOVA analysis (M-ANOVA) was also carried out to assess the effects of fixed factors on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, TGFβ1, and diabetes duration. In conclusion, our data have strengthened the hypothesis that TGFβ1 would be a biomarker and pharmacological target of diabetic retinopathy.
Abscisic Acid Inhibits Asymbiotic Germination of Immature Seeds of Paphiopedilum armeniacum
Authors: Xu Xin , Fang Lin , Li Lin , Ma Guohua , Wu Kunlin , Zeng Songjun
Published: December 2020

Paphiopedilum armeniacum is a rare orchid native to China with high ornamental value. The germination of P. armeniacum seeds is difficult, especially for the mature seeds, which is the major limitation for their large-scale reproduction. This study explored the reasons for seed germination inhibition from the aspects of the important plant endogenous hormone—abscisic acid (ABA). The major endogenous hormone contents of seeds were determined at different developmental stages. The ABA content was 5.8 ng/g in 73 days after pollination (DAP) for the immature seeds, peaked at 14.6 ng/g in 129 DAP seeds, and dropped to 2.6 ng/g in the late mature stage of the 150 DAP seeds. The reduction of ABA content in the mature seed suggests a possible contribution to the increased expression of CYP707A, an ABA catabolism gene. The germination rate of the immature seeds was reduced to 9% from 69% when 5 μg/mL ABA was added to the Hyponex N026 germination medium. The result showed that ABA can inhibit the germination of P. armeniacum immature seeds. However, for the heavily lignified mature seeds, reduction in endogenous ABA level does not result in an increase in the germination rate. Lignin accumulation in the seed coat imposes the physical dormancy for P. armeniacum. In summary, the germination of P. armeniacum is regulated by both ABA and lignin accumulation.
Intrinsic Angiogenic Potential and Migration Capacity of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Derived from Menstrual Blood and Bone Marrow
Authors: Santos Rosana de Almeida , Asensi Karina Dutra , de Barros Julia Helena Oliveira , de Menezes Rafael Campos Silva , Cordeiro Ingrid Rosenburg , Neto José Marques de Brito , Kasai-Brunswick Tais Hanae , Goldenberg Regina Coeli dos Santos
Published: December 2020

Several therapies are being developed to increase blood circulation in ischemic tissues. Despite bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (bmMSC) are still the most studied, an interesting and less invasive MSC source is the menstrual blood, which has shown great angiogenic capabilities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the angiogenic properties of menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (mbMSC) in vitro and in vivo and compared to bmMSC. MSC’s intrinsic angiogenic capacity was assessed by sprouting and migration assays. mbMSC presented higher invasion and longer sprouts in 3D culture. Additionally, both MSC-spheroids showed cells expressing CD31. mbMSC and bmMSC were able to migrate after scratch wound in vitro, nonetheless, only mbMSC demonstrated ability to engraft in the chick embryo, migrating to perivascular, perineural, and chondrogenic regions. In order to study the paracrine effects, mbMSC and bmMSC conditioned mediums were capable of stimulating HUVEC’s tube-like formation and migration. Both cells expressed VEGF-A and FGF2. Meanwhile, PDGF-B was expressed exclusively in mbMSC. Our results indicated that mbMSC and bmMSC presented a promising angiogenic potential. However, mbMSC seems to have additional advantages since it can be obtained by non-invasive procedure and expresses PDGF-B, an important molecule for vascular formation and remodeling.
The Cardioprotective PKA-Mediated Hsp20 Phosphorylation Modulates Protein Associations Regulating Cytoskeletal Dynamics
Authors: Vafiadaki Elizabeth , Arvanitis Demetrios A. , Eliopoulos Aristides G. , Kranias Evangelia G. , Sanoudou Despina
Published: December 2020

The cytoskeleton has a primary role in cardiomyocyte function, including the response to mechanical stimuli and injury. The small heat shock protein 20 (Hsp20) conveys protective effects in cardiac muscle that are linked to serine-16 (Ser16) Hsp20 phosphorylation by stress-induced PKA, but the link between Hsp20 and the cytoskeleton remains poorly understood. Herein, we demonstrate a physical and functional interaction of Hsp20 with the cytoskeletal protein 14-3-3. We show that, upon phosphorylation at Ser16, Hsp20 translocates from the cytosol to the cytoskeleton where it binds to 14-3-3. This leads to dissociation of 14-3-3 from the F-actin depolymerization regulator cofilin-2 (CFL2) and enhanced F-actin depolymerization. Importantly, we demonstrate that the P20L Hsp20 mutation associated with dilated cardiomyopathy exhibits reduced physical interaction with 14-3-3 due to diminished Ser16 phosphorylation, with subsequent failure to translocate to the cytoskeleton and inability to disassemble the 14-3-3/CFL2 complex. The topological sequestration of Hsp20 P20L ultimately results in impaired regulation of F-actin dynamics, an effect implicated in loss of cytoskeletal integrity and amelioration of the cardioprotective functions of Hsp20. These findings underscore the significance of Hsp20 phosphorylation in the regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics, with important implications in cardiac muscle physiology and pathophysiology.
Comparison of PPAR Ligands as Modulators of Resolution of Inflammation, via Their Influence on Cytokines and Oxylipins Release in Astrocytes
Authors: Chistyakov Dmitry V. , Astakhova Alina A. , Goriainov Sergei V. , Sergeeva Marina G.
Published: December 2020

Neuroinflammation is a key process of many neurodegenerative diseases and other brain disturbances, and astrocytes play an essential role in neuroinflammation. Therefore, the regulation of astrocyte responses for inflammatory stimuli, using small molecules, is a potential therapeutic strategy. We investigated the potency of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligands to modulate the stimulating effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the primary rat astrocytes on (1) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs) derivative (oxylipins) synthesis; (2) cytokines TNFα and interleukin-10 (IL-10) release; (3) p38, JNK, ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) phosphorylation. Astrocytes were exposed to LPS alone or in combination with the PPAR ligands: PPARα (fenofibrate, GW6471); PPARβ (GW501516, GSK0660); PPARγ (rosiglitazone, GW9662). We detected 28 oxylipins with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), classified according to their metabolic pathways: cyclooxygenase (COX), cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP), lipoxygenase (LOX) and PUFAs: arachidonic (AA), docosahexaenoic (DHA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA). All tested PPAR ligands decrease COX-derived oxylipins; both PPARβ ligands possessed the strongest effect. The PPARβ agonist, GW501516 is a strong inducer of pro-resolution substances, derivatives of DHA: 4-HDoHE, 11-HDoHE, 17-HDoHE. All tested PPAR ligands decreased the release of the proinflammatory cytokine, TNFα. The PPARβ agonist GW501516 and the PPARγ agonist, rosiglitazone induced the IL-10 release of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10; the cytokine index, (IL-10/TNFα) was more for GW501516. The PPARβ ligands, GW501516 and GSK0660, are also the strongest inhibitors of LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38, JNK, ERK MAPKs. Overall, our data revealed that the PPARβ ligands are a potential pro-resolution and anti-inflammatory drug for targeting glia-mediated neuroinflammation.