bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Machine Learning Algorithms for Wi-Fi Sensing Using CSI Data
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Hendriks Paul , Popping Nadine , Levi Shaul , Naveed Arjmand
Published: September 2023

In today’s digital era, our lives are deeply intertwined with advancements in digital electronics and Radio Frequency (RF) communications. From cell phones to laptops, and from Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) to Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) technology, we rely on a range of electronic devices for everyday tasks. As technology continues to evolve, it presents innovative ways to harness existing resources more efficiently. One remarkable example of this adaptability is the utilization of Wi-Fi networks for Wi-Fi sensing. With Wi-Fi sensing, we can repurpose existing networking devices not only for connectivity but also for essential functions like motion detection for security systems, human motion tracking, fall detection, personal identification, and gesture recognition using Machine Learning (ML) techniques. Integrating Wi-Fi signals into sensing applications expands their potential across various domains. At the Gamgee, we are actively researching the utilization of Wi-Fi signals for Wi-Fi sensing, aiming to provide our clients with more valuable services alongside connectivity and control. This paper presents an orchestration of baseline experiments, analyzing a variety of machine learning algorithms to identify the most suitable one for Wi-Fi-based motion detection. We use a publicly available Wi-Fi dataset based on Channel State Information (CSI) for benchmarking and conduct a comprehensive comparison of different machine learning techniques in the classification domain. We evaluate nine distinct ML techniques, encompassing both shallow learning (SL) and deep learning (DL) methods, to determine the most effective approach for motion detection using Wi-Fi router CSI data. Our assessment involves six performance metrics to gauge the effectiveness of each machine learning technique.
Computational Fluid Dynamics of Ammonia Synthesis in Axial-Radial Bed Reactor
Authors: Tyrański Mariusz , Bujalski Jakub Michał , Orciuch Wojciech , Makowski Łukasz
Published: September 2023

Ammonia synthesis by the Haber–Bosch method is a typical and effective implementation of the chemical process in the large-scale fertiliser industry. Due to the growing demand for fertilisers and food, it is desirable to study this process thoroughly using modern numerical methods to improve the operation of existing devices and facilitate the design of new devices in industrial installations. This manuscript focuses on the influence of the catalyst bed parameters on the ammonia synthesis process. Variants with different sizes of catalyst particles and modifications of the geometry of catalytic beds were considered. The axial-radial Topsoe converter with magnetite as a catalyst, commonly used in modern fertiliser industry beds, was investigated using Computational Fluid Dynamics. As a result, contours of velocity, pressure, concentration, and rate of ammonia formation were obtained. The analysis of the obtained results made it possible to determine the gradient of ammonia production rate in the catalyst bed and designate zones with negligible reaction rates. The authors also proposed possible bed geometry modifications to reduce bed volumes without affecting the converter’s performance.
Issues and Strategies for the Dispatching and Trading of the Three Gorges Large Hydropower System
Authors: Wang Xiang , Guo Le , Shen Jianjian , Kong Meiyan , Han Xu
Published: September 2023

China’s electricity market reform has posed a real challenge to the large-scale hydropower system. Taking the world’s largest watershed hydropower system, the Three Gorges large hydropower system (TGLHS), as the engineering background, this study analyzes the issues and strategies of dispatching and trading in the electricity market. The analysis indicates that the TGLHS exhibits unique difficulties because of transprovincial and transregional power transmission. Major issues including the multi-dimensional and multi-time-scale nested allocation of hydropower energy, the bidding and performance of cascaded hydropower plants in multiple electricity markets, as well as multiple uncertainties in the runoff; electricity prices in multiple markets are also elaborated upon. The corresponding suggested strategies are proposed to cope with the aforementioned issues: (1) for multi-dimensional and multi-scale nested allocation problems, it is necessary to comprehensively consider monthly market transactions and priority generation plans, and establish a profit maximization model; (2) propose a bidding decision-making linkage and segmented bidding optimization model for cascades upstream and downstream hydropower stations; (3) construct a model for decomposing the annual and monthly planned electricity consumption curves and developing operational plans for giant cascade power stations that are suitable for cross-provincial and cross-regional power transmission and transformation; (4) a runoff, electricity price, and market distribution model has been proposed, laying the foundation for further research on multi-scale optimization models for hydropower. Finally, prospects for research on the participation of large-scale hydropower systems in the electricity market are summarized, expecting to promote the marketization of large cascaded hydropower systems. The dispatching and trading of the TGLHS implies that it is important and necessary to explore market theories and methods considering hydropower characteristics and operation needs.
Loss of Energy and Economic Potential of a Biogas Plant Fed with Cow Manure due to Storage Time
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Jakub
Published: September 2023

The aim of the publication was to analyze investments in biogas plants with a cogeneration unit for an average size dairy farm. The basis for the calculation was the use of cow manure as the only substrate in methane fermentation. The economic balance also includes ecological and service aspects. The study also shows how much energy and quality potential is lost due to improper manure management and what impact a single farm with dairy cows has on the emission of carbon dioxide equivalent. It has been estimated that as a result of improper storage of manure, even 2/3 of its fertilizing, energy and economic value can be lost, while causing damage to the environment. It has been estimated that for a single farm with 100 cows, without government mechanisms subsidizing investments in RES, the payback period exceeds 15 years, and the Return of Capital Employed is slightly more than 6%.
Modelling Porous Cementitious Media with/without Integrated Latent Heat Storage: Application Scenario
Authors: Nazari Sam Mona , Schneider Jens , Lutze Holger V.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a methodological approach for the evaluation of the thermal behavior of cementitious porous media with/without integrated latent-heat thermal energy storage (LHTES). To achieve this goal, the Lewis-Nielsen model has been calibrated to predict the insulation properties of mineralized foamed concretes. Two pore-related microstructural fitting parameters, A and Φm, are presented according to the available data in the literature. In this regard, new findings are implemented for the classification of pore structure and prediction of the homogenized thermal conductivity of two-phase cementitious foams with or without phase change materials. The calibration and predictive analyses have been extended to a wide range of experimental data, including variation of binder types, porosities, and latent components. The presented analytical approach appears to agree well with experimental results and can be employed in the design of two-phase mineral foam materials. Then, to assess the thermal behavior of the predicted insulating envelopes, a one-dimensional (1D) enthalpy-based model is used which combines Fourier’s law of heat conduction, the first law of thermodynamics, Lewis-Nielsen conductivities, and the mixture theory for LHTES additions. The results demonstrated the importance of volumetric heat capacity for the thermal inertia of building envelopes.
Plugging Efficiency in Fractured Carbonate Gas Reservoirs Using Fuzzy-Ball Fluids Combined with Solid Plugging Agents
Authors: Zhu Fanghui , Zheng Lihui , Zhao Yang , Chang Qifan , Li Jiahui , Zhang Qinhao
Published: September 2023

Loss encountered during workover operation is a common challenge in the development of fractured carbonate gas reservoirs. Fuzzy-ball fluid, a non-solid phase plugging material developed based on Fuzzy Sealaplugging Theory, has been widely used in killing the well. However, in the plugging of fractured carbonate gas reservoirs, a substantial volume of Fuzzy-ball fluid is required and the pressurization process is time-consuming, which greatly impairs its application. In this study, solid plugging agents including calcium carbonate and fibers are introduced into Fuzzy-ball fluids to improve the plugging efficiency of large-scale macro-fractures. In particular, the plugging performance was evaluated by the indoor plugging of a synthetic core containing a 5 mm wide wedge-shaped fracture, as well as by field trials in two wells. The results show that the plugging ability of the new fluid increases as the concentration of calcium carbonate or fiber increases. Moreover, a more significant enhancement of plugging efficiency was achieved by fibers. In field applications, the use of Fuzzy-ball fluids with calcium carbonate or fibers reduced the volume of fluid consumed by 33~74% and decreased the pressurization time by 33~69%. Therefore, by combining solid plugging agents with Fuzzy-ball fluids, the dual demand for plugging efficiency and cost-effectiveness for fractured carbonate gas reservoirs is achieved simultaneously, which provides an alternative technique for addressing fluid loss in fractured carbonate gas reservoirs.
Machine Learning-Based Optimization of Synchronous Rectification Low-Inductance Current Secondary Boost Converter (SLIC-QBC)
Authors: Liu Guihua , Kui Lichen , Gao Yuan , Cui Wanqiang , Liu Fei , Wang Wei
Published: September 2023

For recycling waste batteries, high-gain DC-DC provides a great solution. In this article, the design and optimization of a high-gain converter–synchronous rectification low-inductance current secondary boost converter (SLIC-QBC) is studied. The optimization objective of this article is to propose an automatic design method for passive components and the switching frequency of the converter to improve efficiency and power density. A machine learning-integrated optimization method is proposed to minimize the converter mass and power loss of the converter. In this method, first, a component-based automatic design model is built with embedded SLIC-QBC simulation. Then, a series of design schemes is generated within a large parameter range, and training data for machine learning are collected. Support vector machine (SVM) and artificial neural network (ANN) are used to validate the converter design scheme, where ANN establishes the mapping relationship from design parameters to optimization objectives. After the optimization, an experimental prototype is built for experimental verification. The simulation and experimental results verify the practicability of the proposed method.
A Review of Advanced Control Strategies of Microgrids with Charging Stations
Authors: Tkac Matej , Kajanova Martina , Bracinik Peter
Published: September 2023

In the context of the global drive towards sustainability and rapid integration of renewables, electric vehicles, and charging infrastructure, the need arises for advanced operational strategies that support the grid while managing the intermittent nature of these resources. Microgrids emerge as a solution, operating independently or alongside the main grid to facilitate power flow management among interconnected sources and different loads locally. This review paper aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the different control strategies proposed in the literature to control microgrids with electric vehicle charging stations. The surveyed research is primarily categorized according to the employed control algorithms, although distinctions are also made based on defined microgrid architecture, utilization of specific power sources, and charging stations configurations. Additionally, this paper identifies research gaps in the current research. These gaps encompass the use of oversimplified models for charging stations and/or renewable sources operation, limited simulation time periods, or lack of experimental testing of proposed approaches. In the light of these identified shortcomings, this manuscript presents recommendations for guiding future research.
Study of Supercritical State Characteristics of Miscible CO2 Used in the Flooding Process
Authors: Zhang Yu , Lyu Weifeng , Zhang Ke , He Dongbo , Li Ao , Cheng Yaoze , Gao Jiahao
Published: September 2023

Carbon dioxide flooding is a strategic replacement technology for greatly enhancing oil recovery in low-permeability oilfields, which includes social benefits resulting from carbon emission reduction and economic benefits owing to the improvement of oil recovery. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop and apply the technology of CO2 flooding and storage in the petroleum industry. In reservoir conditions, CO2 is usually under a supercritical state, presenting both low viscosity and high diffusivity of a gaseous state and high density of a liquid state. The special phase behavior of CO2 directly affects its extraction capacity, resulting in the change of miscible behavior between CO2 and crude oil. In this paper, the ultra-high-pressure–high-temperature pressure–volume–temperature (PVT) system was used to evaluate the phase characteristics of CO2 during the process of reservoir development. The phase behaviors of the CO2/CH4/N2 crude oil system were compared and analyzed. Moreover, the matching mechanism between supercritical CO2 characteristics and oil–gas system miscibility was investigated and defined. This work deepened the understanding of the phase characteristics of CO2 in the process of miscible flooding, providing both theoretical guidance for the application of CO2 injection on oilfields and the essential scientific basis for the implementation of CCUS-EOR technology.
Possibilities of RDF Pyrolysis Products Utilization in the Face of the Energy Crisis
Authors: Skrzyniarz Magdalena , Sajdak Marcin , Zajemska Monika , Biniek-Poskart Anna , Iwaszko Józef , Skibiński Andrzej
Published: September 2023

The main goal of the study was to assess the possibility of practical use of products of pyrolysis of refuse-derived fuel (RDF), i.e., pyrolysis gas, biochar and pyrolysis oil, as an alternative to standard fossil fuels. The subject matter of the paper reaches out to the challenges faced by the global economy, not only in the context of the energy crisis, but also in the context of the energy transformation currently beginning in Europe. The increase in fuel and energy prices prompts countries to look for alternative solutions to Russian minerals. At the same time, the growing amount of municipal waste forces the implementation of solutions based on energy recovery (the amount of municipal waste per EU inhabitant in 2021 is 530 kg). One such solution is pyrolysis of RDF, i.e., fuels produced from the over-sieve fraction of municipal waste. In Poland, insufficient processing capacity of thermal waste conversion plants has led to significant surpluses of RDF (1.2 million Mg of undeveloped RDF in Poland in 2021). RDF, due to their high calorific value, can be a valuable energy resource (16–18 MJ/k). This issue is analyzed in this study.
China in the Renewable Energy Era: What Has Been Done and What Remains to Be Done
Authors: Ekonomou George , Menegaki Angeliki N.
Published: September 2023

Climate change is directly linked to a broad array of changes because of disorganized activities within the economic system and human intervention. Climate change affects the well-being status of both non-living and living things. Relevant policies to mitigate and adapt to climate change conditions concentrate on solutions that intend to use renewable energy instead of fossil fuels or other conventional energy sources. This study aims to process a review focused on how renewables advance environmental quality and create relevant benefits within severe economic activities. This study elaborates on the case of China for two main reasons. First, China has a pivotal role in the economic system worldwide. Second, China is making serious attempts to transition into a low-carbon economy. An integrative review was processed to receive selected publications. The advantage of this process is that it considers empirical and non-empirical studies, policy papers, and conceptual frameworks. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to retrieve the final number of publications. Review results from 39 well-acknowledged Journals provided 180 selected publications categorized into seven study groups: data analyses, model optimization studies, market issues, renewable energy technology publications, nuclear energy publications, ocean energy publications, and policy-related studies. Policy implications concern China’s efforts to accelerate the integration of renewables in the energy mix. Hence, the country should increase energy efficiency in consumption and process investment plans based on robust research and development efforts.
Response of Seedling Growth Characteristics to Seed Size and Cotyledon Damage in Quercus wutaishanica
Authors: Luo Yonghong , Zhang Jinfeng , Yan Xingfu , Zhang Min , Wei Shuhua , Yang Hui , Shen Yan , Zhang Jinbao , Cheng Jiming
Published: September 2023

The successful establishment of seedlings is very important for plant regeneration, but it is vulnerable to many factors at this stage. Cotyledon damage will directly affect the health of seedlings, thus affecting the regeneration of the plant population. However, little is known about the effects of different cotyledon loss degrees of large and small seeds on seedling growth. We investigated the effects of 1/4 (light excision), 1/2 (moderate excision), and complete excision of cotyledons (heavy excision) on the growth characteristics of seedlings germinating from different sizes of seeds. The results showed that (1) shoot height, basal stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf area per plant, specific leaf area, and biomass were significantly higher in large-seeded seedlings than in small-seeded seedlings; (2) slight cotyledon excision had no effect on the biomass of large-seeded seedlings but significantly reduced the biomass of small-seeded seedlings. Our study highlights that large-seeded seedlings are more tolerant than small-seeded seedlings in the early seedling recruitment, suggesting that large-seeded seedlings have a strong fitness for recruitment in young populations of Q. wutaishanica.
Ultra-High-Density Genetic Maps of Jatropha curcas × Jatropha integerrima and Anchoring Jatropha curcas Genome Assembly Scaffolds
Authors: Malik Anoop Anand , Sinha Pratima , Negi Madan Singh , Rajora Om P. , Tripathi Shashi Bhushan
Published: September 2023

Genetic maps facilitate an understanding of genome organization and the mapping of genes and QTLs for traits of interest. Our objective was to develop a high-density genetic map of Jatropha and anchoring scaffolds from genome assemblies. We developed two ultra-high-density genetic linkage maps of Jatropha curcas × Jatropha intergerrima using a backcross (BC1) population using SNP, AFLP and SSR markers. First, SNPs were identified through genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). The polymorphic SNPs were mapped to 3267 Jat_r4.5 scaffolds and 484 Wu_JatCur_1.0 scaffolds, and then these genomic scaffolds were mapped/anchored to the genetic linkage groups along with the AFLP and SSR markers for each genome assembly separately. We successfully mapped 7284 polymorphic SNPs, and 54 AFLP and SSR markers on 11 linkage groups using the Jat_r4.5 genomic scaffolds, resulting in a genome length of 1088 cM and an average marker interval of 0.71 cM. We mapped 7698 polymorphic SNPs, and 99 AFLP and SSR markers on 11 linkage groups using the Wu_JatCur_1.0 genomic scaffolds, resulting in a genome length of 870 cM and an average marker interval of 1.67 cM. The mapped SNPs were annotated to various regions of the genome, including exon, intron and intergenic regions. We developed two ultra-high-density linkage maps anchoring a high number of genome scaffolds to linkage groups, which provide an important resource for the structural and functional genomics as well as for molecular breeding of Jatropha while also serving as a framework for assembling and ordering whole genome scaffolds.
Neural Fractional Order PID Controllers Design for 2-Link Rigid Robot Manipulator
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Jasim , Oleiwi Bashra Kadhim , Abood Layla H. , Azar Ahmad Taher , Hameed Ibrahim A.
Published: September 2023

The robotic manipulator is considered one of the complex systems that include multi-input, multi-output, non-linearity, and highly coupled. The uncertainty in the parameters and external disturbances have a negative influence on the performance of the system. Therefore, the controllers that will be designed for these systems must be able to deal with these complexities and difficulties. The Proportional, Integral, and Derivative (PID) controller is known to be simple and well robust, while the neural network has a solid ability to map complex functions. In this paper, we propose six control structures by combining the benefits of PID controller with integer and fractional order and the benefits of neural networks to produce hybrid controllers for a 2-Link Rigid Robot Manipulator (2-LRRM) handling with the problem of trajectory tracking. The Gorilla Forces Troops Optimization algorithm (GTO) was used to tune the parameters of the proposed controller schemes to minimize the Integral of Time Square Error (ITSE). In addition, the robustness of the performance of the suggested control systems is tested by altering the initial position, external disturbances and parameters and carried out using MATLAB. The best performance of the proposed controllers was the Neural Network Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative Controller (NNFOPID).
Fractal Study of the Development Law of Mining Cracks
Authors: Wu Jinsui , Xie Dongyu , Yi Sihai , Yin Shangxian , Hu Dezhi , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Yun
Published: September 2023

Studying mining fracture development is vital for geotechnical and mining engineering and geological disaster prevention. This research assesses crack effects on rock mass stress equilibrium during coal mining, potentially causing geological disasters such as land subsidence and landslides. Using fractal geometry theory, the present study investigates the development of horizontal and vertical mining cracks, revealing their propagation patterns. The fractal dimension generally increases as the propulsion distance increases; however, fluctuations vary from 250 to 287.5 m, forming a wavering line chart. The proportion of mining fracture area relative to mining space area increases with greater propulsion distance, indicating expanded upward mining space due to separation layers. The horizontal distribution of mining cracks persists, while the vertical distribution decreases, suggesting ground subsidence results from upward transmission. The fastest increase in fractal dimension occurs at 87.5–100 m. At 250 m, it peaks at 1.4136, indicating complex crack structures. During propulsion, the fractal dimension decreases due to upward mining space expansion through overlying rock layer collapse, forming new cracks. The proportion of mining crack area to mining space area increases gradually throughout the mining process. The present study presents a simulation model for crack identification, noting limitations in identifying tiny cracks.
Ethical Dilemmas and Family History: A Psychological Approach
Authors: Moore Susan M.
Published: September 2023

Family historians frequently encounter ethical issues in the course of their research, and many come to recognise the moral dilemmas facing them. Common dilemmas revolve around topics such as whether family secrets should be revealed or favourite stories debunked in light of the evidence, how the privacy of living relatives can be maintained when family histories are published, if the ‘sins of the fathers’ require reparation (and how this might be possible), and to what extent is it acceptable to romanticise or ‘whitewash’ one’s ancestral story. In this paper, dilemmas such as these are discussed using the theoretical framework of psychologist Jonathan Haidt whose model of five moral ‘instincts’ includes care, fairness, loyalty, respect for authority, and sanctity. It is concluded that examining ethical issues using such a framework has the potential to stimulate empathy, reduce impulsive action, and increase the likelihood of finding creative solutions to moral dilemmas.
Association Mapping of Candidate Genes Associated with Iron and Zinc Content in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Grains
Authors: Bukomarhe Chance Bahati , Kimwemwe Paul Kitenge , Githiri Stephen Mwangi , Mamati Edward George , Kimani Wilson , Mutai Collins , Nganga Fredrick , Nguezet Paul-Martin Dontsop , Mignouna Jacob , Civava René Mushizi , Fofana Mamadou
Published: September 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), in the diet contribute to health issues and hidden hunger. Enhancing the Fe and Zn content in globally staple food crops like rice is necessary to address food malnutrition. A Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) was conducted using 85 diverse rice accessions from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to identify genomic regions associated with grain Fe and Zn content. The Fe content ranged from 0.95 to 8.68 mg/100 g on a dry weight basis (dwb) while Zn content ranged from 0.87 to 3.8 mg/100 g (dwb). Using MLM and FarmCPU models, we found 10 significant SNPs out of which one SNP on chromosome 11 was associated with the variation in Fe content and one SNP on chromosome 4 was associated with the Zn content, and both were commonly detected by the two models. Candidate genes belonging to transcription regulator activities, including the bZIP family genes and MYB family genes, as well as transporter activities involved in Fe and Zn homeostasis were identified in the vicinity of the SNP markers and selected. The identified SNP markers hold promise for marker-assisted selection in rice breeding programs aimed at enhancing Fe and Zn content in rice. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic factors controlling Fe and Zn uptake and their transport and accumulation in rice, offering opportunities for developing biofortified rice varieties to combat malnutrition among rice consumers.
Somatic Embryogenesis in Spinach—A Review
Authors: Zdravković-Korać Snežana , Belić Maja , Ćalić Dušica , Milojević Jelena
Published: September 2023

A spinach-supplemented diet exerts numerous health benefits, but high levels of oxalic acid and nitrate can cause medical problems, so their levels should be reduced, while the levels of vitamins and phytochemicals could be further increased by breeding. Conventional spinach breeding is limited by the very complex sex determination. However, these limitations could be circumvented in synergy with a biotechnological approach. Accordingly, tissue culture techniques allow rapid and efficient clonal propagation of selected valuable genotypes, and somatic embryogenesis has been recognized as a superior process for clonal propagation because somatic embryos resemble zygotic embryos and therefore can spontaneously develop into complete plants. Since spinach has been considered recalcitrant to in vitro regeneration for decades, a deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying somatic embryogenesis is important for a better understanding and further improvement of the efficiency of this process. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the major factors affecting somatic embryogenesis in spinach is presented and discussed, with particular emphasis on the synergistic effects of α-naphthaleneacetic acid, gibberellic acid, light, and the intrinsic predisposition of individual seedlings to somatic embryogenesis, as well as the expression of genes encoding key enzymes involved in the maintenance of gibberellin homeostasis and the levels of endogenous gibberellins.
Outdoor Time, Space, and Restrictions Imposed on Children’s Play in Australian Early Childhood Education and Care Settings during the COVID Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey from Educators’ Perspective
Authors: Liu Junjie , Wyver Shirley , Chutiyami Muhammad , Little Helen
Published: September 2023

The study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on children’s access to the outdoors in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. An online survey comprised of a standardised scale and questions used in previous related studies was completed by 143 early childhood educators across Australia. Participants were asked to report children’s time spent outdoors, access to outdoor space, and restrictions imposed on children’s play during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. The survey responses were imported into SPSS for descriptive, correlation, and ordinal regression analyses. We examined the relationship between children’s outdoor time, space, restrictions imposed on children’s play, and educators’ characteristics, such as qualifications, professional development, and tolerance of risk or staff–child ratios during the pandemic in Australia. Most educators reported that children’s outdoor time and access to outdoor space remained the same compared to before the pandemic, while imposed restrictions on children’s outdoor play increased. The results of ordinal regressions indicated that educators with a higher tolerance of risk were less likely to impose additional restrictions on children’s outdoor play. The findings contribute to the understanding of how educators’ tolerance of risk influences children’s outdoor play opportunities and provide directions for future risk-reframing interventions.
Developing and Planning a Protocol for Implementing Health Promoting Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) in a Tertiary Health Setting
Authors: Hamilton-Bruce M. Anne , Young Janette , Nottle Carmel , Hazel Susan J. , Milton Austin G. , McDowall Sonya , Mani Ben , Koblar Simon
Published: September 2023

The Ottawa Charter identifies that multiple levels of government, non-government, community, and other organizations should work together to facilitate health promotion, including in acute settings such as hospitals. We outline a method and protocol to achieve this, namely an Action Research (AR) framework for an Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) in a tertiary health setting. Dogs Offering Support after Stroke (DOgSS) is an AR study at a major tertiary referral hospital. AAI has been reported to improve mood and quality of life for patients in hospitals. Our project objectives included applying for funding, developing a hospital dog visiting Action Research project, and, subsequent to ethics and governance approvals and finance, undertaking and reporting on the Action Research findings. The Action Research project aimed to investigate whether AAI (dog-visiting) makes a difference to the expressed mood of stroke patients and their informal supports (visiting carers/family/friends), and also the impact these visits have on hospital staff and volunteers, as well as the dog handler and dog involved. We provide our protocol for project management and operations, setting out how the project is conducted from conception to assess human and animal wellbeing and assist subsequent decision-making about introducing dog-visiting to the Stroke Unit. The protocol can be used or adapted by other organizations to try to avoid pitfalls and support health promotion in one of the five important action areas of the Ottawa Charter, namely that of reorienting health services.
Exploration of the Relationships between Men’s Healthy Life Expectancy in Japan and Regional Variables by Integrating Statistical Learning Methods
Authors: Sato Fumiya , Nakamura Keiko
Published: September 2023

A quantitative understanding of the relationship between comprehensive health levels, such as healthy life expectancy and their related factors, through a highly explanatory model is important in both health research and health policy making. In this study, we developed a regression model that combines multiple linear regression and a random forest model, exploring the relationship between men’s healthy life expectancy in Japan and regional variables from open sources at the city level as an illustrative case. Optimization of node-splitting in each decision tree was based on the total mean-squared error of multiple regression models in binary-split child nodes. Variations of standardized partial regression coefficients for each city were obtained as the ensemble of multiple trees and visualized on scatter plots. By considering them, interaction terms with piecewise linear functions were exploratorily introduced into a final multiple regression model. The plots showed that the relationship between the healthy life expectancy and the explanatory variables could differ depending on the cities’ characteristics. The procedure implemented here was suggested as a useful exploratory method for flexibly implementing interactions in multiple regression models while maintaining interpretability.
Uncovering the Novel Role of NR1D1 in Regulating BNIP3-Mediated Mitophagy in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Chen Yidong , Li Junrong , Li Shuang , Cheng Yiyu , Fu Xiaoyu , Li Jiamin , Zhu Liangru
Published: September 2023

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, incurable condition characterized by mucosal inflammation and intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) damage. The circadian clock gene NR1D1, implicated in UC and the critical mitophagy process for epithelial repair, needs further exploration regarding its role in mitophagy regulation in UC. Methods: We created a jet lag mouse model and induced colitis with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), investigating NR1D1’s role. Intestinal-specific Nr1d1 knockout mice were also generated. RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and dual-luciferase reporter assays helped ascertain NR1D1’s regulatory effect on BNIP3 expression. The mitochondrial state in IECs was assessed through transmission electron microscopy, while confocal microscopy evaluated mitophagy-associated protein expression in colon tissue and CCD841 cells. Cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured via flow cytometry. Results: We observed reduced NR1D1 expression in the IECs of UC patients, accentuated under jet lag and DSS exposure in mice. NR1D1 ablation led to disrupted immune homeostasis and declined mitophagy in IECs. NR1D1, usually a transcriptional repressor, was a positive regulator of BNIP3 expression, leading to impaired mitophagy, cellular inflammation, and apoptosis. Administering the NR1D1 agonist SR9009 ameliorated colitis symptoms, primarily by rectifying defective mitophagy. Conclusions: Our results suggest that NR1D1 bridges the circadian clock and UC, controlling BNIP3-mediated mitophagy and representing a potential therapeutic target. Its agonist, SR9009, shows promise in UC symptom alleviation.
Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Pathogenesis of Growth-Disordered Raccoon Dog
Authors: Chen Danyang , Guo Xiaolan , Wang Kaiying , Zhao Weigang , Chang Zhongjuan , Wang Quankai , Xu Chao
Published: September 2023

Microorganisms of the genus Eperythrozoon are a zoonotic chronic infectious disease with wide distribution. We found that raccoons infected with Eperythrozoon showed obvious stunting, which seriously affected the economic benefits of raccoon dogs. To investigate the pathogenesis of the raccoon dog, we used transcriptome and proteome sequencing to analyze the changes in mRNA, miRNA, and protein expression in raccoon dogs infected with Eperythrozoon and normal raccoons. The results showed that the expression levels of genes related to immunity, metabolism, and enzyme activity were significantly changed. Among these, ERLIN1, IGF1R, CREB3L1, TNS1, TENC1, and mTOR play key roles. Additionally, the miR-1268, miR-125b, miR-10-5p, and miR-10 as central miRNAs regulate the expression of these genes. Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed consistent trends in mRNA and protein changes in MYH9, FKBP1A, PRKCA, and CYP11B2. These results suggest that Eperythrozoon may contribute to the slow development of raccoons by affecting the expression of mRNAs and miRNAs, reducing their immunity and causing metabolic abnormalities.
Functional Insight into and Refinement of the Genomic Boundaries of the JARID2-Neurodevelopmental Disorder Episignature
Authors: van der Laan Liselot , Rooney Kathleen , Haghshenas Sadegheh , Silva Ananília , McConkey Haley , Relator Raissa , Levy Michael A. , Valenzuela Irene , Trujillano Laura , Lasa-Aranzasti Amaia , Campos Berta , Castells Neus , Verberne Eline A. , Maas Saskia , Alders Mariëlle , Mannens Marcel M. A. M. , van Haelst Mieke M. , Sadikovic Bekim , Henneman Peter
Published: September 2023

JARID2 (Jumonji, AT-rich interactive domain 2) haploinsufficiency is associated with a clinically distinct neurodevelopmental syndrome. It is characterized by intellectual disability, developmental delay, autistic features, behavior abnormalities, cognitive impairment, hypotonia, and dysmorphic features. JARID2 acts as a transcriptional repressor protein that is involved in the regulation of histone methyltransferase complexes. JARID2 plays a role in the epigenetic machinery, and the associated syndrome has an identified DNA methylation episignature derived from sequence variants and intragenic deletions involving JARID2. For this study, our aim was to determine whether patients with larger deletions spanning beyond JARID2 present a similar DNA methylation episignature and to define the critical region involved in aberrant DNA methylation in 6p22–p24 microdeletions. We examined the DNA methylation profiles of peripheral blood from 56 control subjects, 13 patients with (likely) pathogenic JARID2 variants or patients carrying copy number variants, and three patients with JARID2 VUS variants. The analysis showed a distinct and strong differentiation between patients with (likely) pathogenic variants, both sequence and copy number, and controls. Using the identified episignature, we developed a binary model to classify patients with the JARID2-neurodevelopmental syndrome. DNA methylation analysis indicated that JARID2 is the driver gene for aberrant DNA methylation observed in 6p22–p24 microdeletions. In addition, we performed analysis of functional correlation of the JARID2 genome-wide methylation profile with the DNA methylation profiles of 56 additional neurodevelopmental disorders. To conclude, we refined the critical region for the presence of the JARID2 episignature in 6p22–p24 microdeletions and provide insight into the functional changes in the epigenome observed when regulation by JARID2 is lost.
Ginsenoside F1-Mediated Telomere Preservation Delays Cellular Senescence
Authors: Hou Jingang , Yun Yeejin , Jeon Byeongmin , Baek Jongin , Kim Sunchang
Published: September 2023

Telomeres play pivotal roles in processes closely related to somatic senescence and aging, making them a compelling target for interventions aimed at combating aging and age-related pathologies. Ginsenoside, a natural compound, has emerged as a potential remedy for promoting healthy aging, yet how it protects telomeres remains incompletely understood. Here, we show that treatment of F1 can effectively restore the level of TRF2, thereby preserving telomere integrity. This restoration leads to inhibition of the DNA damage response and improvements in mitochondrial function and, ultimately, delays in cellular senescence. Conversely, depletion of TRF2 causes mitochondrial dysfunction, accompanied by increased oxidative stress, autophagy inhibition, insufficient energy metabolism, and the onset of cellular senescence. These observations underscore the critical role of TRF2 in maintaining telomere integrity and direct association with the initiation of cellular senescence. We conduct a further analysis, suggesting F1 could bind in proximity to the TRF2 heterodimer interface, potentially enhancing dimerization stability. These findings suggest that F1 may be a promising natural remedy for anti-aging, and restoring TRF2 could potentially prevent telomere-dependent diseases commonly associated with the aging process.
The Impact of SGLT2 Inhibitors in the Heart and Kidneys Regardless of Diabetes Status
Authors: Matthews Jennifer , Herat Lakshini , Schlaich Markus P. , Matthews Vance
Published: September 2023

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) are two devastating diseases that may occur in nondiabetics or individuals with diabetes and, when combined, it is referred to as cardiorenal disease. The impact of cardiorenal disease on society, the economy and the healthcare system is enormous. Although there are numerous therapies for cardiorenal disease, one therapy showing a great deal of promise is sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. The SGLT family member, SGLT2, is often implicated in the pathogenesis of a range of diseases, and the dysregulation of the activity of SGLT2 markedly effects the transport of glucose and sodium across the luminal membrane of renal cells. Inhibitors of SGLT2 were developed based on the antidiabetic action initiated by inhibiting renal glucose reabsorption, thereby increasing glucosuria. Of great medical significance, large-scale clinical trials utilizing a range of SGLT2 inhibitors have demonstrated both metabolic and biochemical benefits via numerous novel mechanisms, such as sympathoinhibition, which will be discussed in this review. In summary, SGLT2 inhibitors clearly exert cardio-renal protection in people with and without diabetes in both preclinical and clinical settings. This exciting class of inhibitors improve hyperglycemia, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia and diabetic retinopathy via multiple mechanisms, of which many are yet to be elucidated.
Increased Levels of Circulating IGFBP4 and ANGPTL8 with a Prospective Role in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: AlMajed Hana Th. , Abu-Farha Mohamed , Alshawaf Eman , Devarajan Sriraman , Alsairafi Zahra , Elhelaly Ashraf , Cherian Preethi , Al-Khairi Irina , Ali Hamad , Jose Rose Mol , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Al-Ozairi Ebaa , Al-Mulla Fahd , Al Attar Abdulnabi , Abubaker Jehad
Published: September 2023

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a complicated condition related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). ANGPTL8 is a hepatic protein highlighted as a risk factor for DN in patients with T2D; additionally, recent evidence from DN studies supports the involvement of growth hormone/IGF/IGF-binding protein axis constituents. The potential link between ANGPTL8 and IGFBPs in DN has not been explored before. Here, we assessed changes in the circulating ANGPTL8 levels in patients with DN and its association with IGFBP-1, -3, and -4. Our data revealed a significant rise in circulating ANGPTL8 in people with DN, 4443.35 ± 396 ng/mL compared to 2059.73 ± 216 ng/mL in people with T2D (p < 0.001). Similarly, levels of IGFBP-3 and -4 were significantly higher in people with DN compared to the T2D group. Interestingly, the rise in ANGPTL8 levels correlated positively with IGFBP-4 levels in T2DM patients with DN (p < 0.001) and this significant correlation disappeared in T2DM patients without DN. It also correlated positively with serum creatinine and negatively with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, All < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of the combination of ANGPTL8 and IGFBP4 was 0.76 (0.69–0.84), p < 0.001, and the specificity was 85.9%. In conclusion, our results showed a significant increase in ANGPTL8 in patients with DN that correlated exclusively with IGFBP-4, implicating a potential role of both proteins in the pathophysiology of DN. Our findings highlight the significance of these biomarkers, suggesting them as promising diagnostic molecules for the detection of diabetic nephropathy.
Scipion-EM-ProDy: A Graphical Interface for the ProDy Python Package within the Scipion Workflow Engine Enabling Integration of Databases, Simulations and Cryo-Electron Microscopy Image Processing
Authors: Krieger James M. , Sorzano Carlos Oscar S. , Carazo Jose Maria
Published: September 2023

Macromolecular assemblies, such as protein complexes, undergo continuous structural dynamics, including global reconfigurations critical for their function. Two fast analytical methods are widely used to study these global dynamics, namely elastic network model normal mode analysis and principal component analysis of ensembles of structures. These approaches have found wide use in various computational studies, driving the development of complex pipelines in several software packages. One common theme has been conformational sampling through hybrid simulations incorporating all-atom molecular dynamics and global modes of motion. However, wide functionality is only available for experienced programmers with limited capabilities for other users. We have, therefore, integrated one popular and extensively developed software for such analyses, the ProDy Python application programming interface, into the Scipion workflow engine. This enables a wider range of users to access a complete range of macromolecular dynamics pipelines beyond the core functionalities available in its command-line applications and the normal mode wizard in VMD. The new protocols and pipelines can be further expanded and integrated into larger workflows, together with other software packages for cryo-electron microscopy image analysis and molecular simulations. We present the resulting plugin, Scipion-EM-ProDy, in detail, highlighting the rich functionality made available by its development.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization and Expression Analysis of the TaDUF724 Gene Family in Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Yuan Yi , Yin Xiaohui , Han Xiaowen , Han Shuo , Li Yiting , Ma Dongfang , Fang Zhengwu , Yin Junliang , Gong Shuangjun
Published: September 2023

Unknown functional domain (DUF) proteins constitute a large number of functionally uncharacterized protein families in eukaryotes. DUF724s play crucial roles in plants. However, the insight understanding of wheat TaDUF724s is currently lacking. To explore the possible function of TaDUF724s in wheat growth and development and stress response, the family members were systematically identified and characterized. In total, 14 TaDUF724s were detected from a wheat reference genome; they are unevenly distributed across the 11 chromosomes, and, according to chromosome location, they were named TaDUF724-1 to TaDUF724-14. Evolution analysis revealed that TaDUF724s were under negative selection, and fragment replication was the main reason for family expansion. All TaDUF724s are unstable proteins; most TaDUF724s are acidic and hydrophilic. They were predicted to be located in the nucleus and chloroplast. The promoter regions of TaDUF724s were enriched with the cis-elements functionally associated with growth and development, as well as being hormone-responsive. Expression profiling showed that TaDUF724-9 was highly expressed in seedings, roots, leaves, stems, spikes and grains, and strongly expressed throughout the whole growth period. The 12 TaDUF724 were post-transcription regulated by 12 wheat MicroRNA (miRNA) through cleavage and translation. RT-qPCR showed that six TaDUF724s were regulated by biological and abiotic stresses. Conclusively, TaDUF724s were systematically analyzed using bioinformatics methods, which laid a theoretical foundation for clarifying the function of TaDUF724s in wheat.