bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic Impedance Evaluation of the Polymer-Polymer Hybrid Composites as Insulator Building Materials
Authors: Farhan Rand Salih , Fahad Besma mohammed
Published: May 2023

Acoustic energy dissipates in multi-phase or multi-boundary materials. Hybrid composites are described as multi-phase with many interfaces between their materials. The current research proposes studying the acoustic behavior of polymeric hybrid composites by estimating the time, velocity, and hybrid composite acoustic impedance. Two groups of hybrid composites were prepared, including unsaturated polyester with PMMA, except one with HDPE and the other with PS. Each group has 28, 35, and 40% weight fractions. An ultrasonic test measured time to determine velocity and acoustic impedance later. The results show that increasing the weight fraction will increase density with respect to the density of the reinforcing material. Different ultrasonic times were obtained with increasing weight fractions. As the weight fraction of PS increased, the time increased; unlike the velocity, it decreased but increased with density. In contrast, this behavior was changed if the hybrid had PE. The highest acoustic impedance was at 28% UP/PMMA+PS. In conclusion, UP/PMMA+PS can dissipate ultrasonic waves more than UP/PMMA+PE.
Mechanistic Protective Effect of Cilostazol in Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage via Regulation of Oxidative Stress and TNF-α/ NF-κB/ Caspase-3 Pathways
Authors: Heeba Gehan H. , Habib Heba A. , Zahran Mahmoud E. , Othman Eman M.
Published: May 2023

Despite being extremely potent against malignancies, cisplatin (CIS) has limited practical applicability due to its adverse effects such as testicular damage. Consequently, it becomes necessary to reduce its toxicity. In this study, cilostazol, a selective phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor that is frequently used in the treatment of intermittent claudication, was examined for its ability to abrogate CIS-induces testicular toxicity and its ameliorative effect was compared with two phosphodiesterase inhibitors, tadalafil and pentoxifylline. The study also focused on the possible mechanisms involved in the proposed protective effect. Ten groups of rats were included; Group (1): control, Groups (2-4): 5 mg/kg tadalafil or 75 mg/kg pentoxifylline or 20 mg/kg cilostazol respectively), Group (5):7 mg/kg CIS, Group (6&7): CIS + 5 mg/kg tadalafil or 75 mg/kg pentoxifylline, Group (8-10) CIS+ 5, 10 or 20 mg/kg cilostazol respectively. CIS treated rats showed a significant decrease in testicular function, serum testosterone and reduced glutathione levels, and significant elevation in malondialdehyde, total nitrite levels, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and nuclear factor-kappa β alongside caspase-3. These outcomes were confirmed by marked testicular architecture deterioration. Contrary, Cilostazol in a dose-dependent manner showed potential protection against testicular toxicity, reversion of the disrupted testicular function and improvement of the histological alterations through rebalancing of oxidative stress, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers. In addition, cilostazol exerted more pronounced protective effect in comparison to tadalafil and pentoxifylline. In conclusion, administrations of cilostazol might ameliorate cisplatin-induced testicular impairment through alteration of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathway, offering a promising treatment for cisplatin -intoxication in the testes.
Perspectives and Implications of Coanda Effect in Aneurysms
Authors: Saceleanu Vicentiu Mircea , Covache-Busuioc Razvan-Adrian , Glavan Luca Andrei , Corlatescu Antonio Daniel , Ciurea Alexandru Vlad
Published: May 2023

It is yet unknown how the formation of aneurysm inside the human body occurs. Thus, the understanding and analysis of the Coanda effect will result in a better overview of the overall fluid mechanics that develops inside such a structure, leading not only to better treatment plans, but also to diminished postoperative risks.

This paper presents how the fluid behaves in this situation, and takes into consideration how this physical phenomenon influences the hemodynamics inside numerous anatomical regions, located in the central nervous system, where aneurysms usually develop.

Analyzing the three main areas in which cerebral aneurysms form the Coanda effect can potentially lead to the rupture of the aneurysm, by changing the blood flow trajectory, it should be taken into consideration when choosing a treatment plan, especially in postoperative care. In addition, there are other factors that can influence the evolution of an aneurysm such as shape, size, localization and the patient’s health condition.

Understanding and analysis of the Coanda effect will result in a better overview of the overall fluid mechanics that develops inside such a structure, leading not only to better treatment plans, but also to diminished postoperative risks.
Direct Femtosecond Laser Processing for Generating High Spatial Frequency LIPSS (HSFL) on Borosilicate Glasses with Large Area Coverage
Authors: Rajendran Rajeev , Krishnadev E. R. , Anoop K. K.
Published: May 2023

Large-area nanostructuring of glasses using intense laser beam remains a difficult task due to the extreme non-linear absorption of the laser energy by the material. Precise optimization of the process parameters is essential for fabricating nanostructures with large area coverage. In this study, we report the findings on creating high spatial frequency LIPSS (HSFL) on borosilicate glass through direct laser writing, using a femtosecond laser with a wavelength λ = 800 nm, pulse duration τ = 35 fs, and repetition frequency frep = 1 kHz. The orientation of the HSFL was found to be parallel to the electric field vector. We measured the single pulse ablation threshold (Fth=3.87±0.26 J/cm2) and incubation factor (S=0.68±0.03) of Borosilicate glasses for precise control for large area surface structuring. Single-spot experiments indicate that uniform LIPSS formation is limited by melt formation inside the irradiated area for higher fluence and a larger number of irradiated laser pulses. The orientation of the scan axis with the laser beam polarization is found to be significantly influencing the uniformity of the large area processing. We found that the orientation of the scan axis with the laser beam polarization significantly affects the uniformity of large-area processing, with redeposition and melt formation being higher when the scan axis is perpendicular to the laser beam polarization. Large-area processing of the borosilicate glass surface is done by line-by-line scanning over the surface with a scan orientation parallel to the laser beam polarization. The optical characterization reveals that the transmittance and reflectance of the borosilicate glass decreased significantly after processing. Also, the wettability of the surface has been changed from hydrophilic to super hydrophilic after processing. These chemical contamination-free and uniformly distributed structures have potential applications in optics, microfluidics, photovoltaics, and biomaterials.
2-(5,6-Diphenyl-1,2, 4-Triazin-3-Yl)pyridinium Dichloroiodate (I)
Authors: Aragoni Maria Carla , Lippolis Vito , Mancini Annalisa , Pintus Anna , Podda Enrico , Orton James B. , Coles Simon J. , Arca Massimiliano
Published: May 2023

2-(5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazin-3-yl)pyridinium dichloroiodate (I) (1) was synthesized by reacting 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazine with ICl in dichloromethane solution. The structural characterization of 1 by SC-XRD analysis was accompanied by elemental analysis, FT-IR, and FT-Raman spectroscopy measurements.
From Dual Roles to Translational Challenges: Unpacking the Complexities of Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Cancer Progression and Therapy
Authors: Shao Shengwen , Miao HuiLai , Ma Wenxue
Published: May 2023

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play critical roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME), where they are recruited by signals released by cancer cells. Although they have great potential as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, the dual roles of TAMs in promoting or inhibiting tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis make their function in cancer progression complex. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of TAMs, including their phenotypic diversity, regulatory signaling pathways, and interactions with other cells in the TME. We also discuss the challenges related to the standard isolation protocols of TAMs, inconsistent research results, and translation of TAM knowledge into clinical applications. Additionally, we review the status of clinical trials involving TAMs and potential strategies to overcome the limitations. The future direction of TAM research should focus on developing more targeted therapies that specifically regulate TAM function and non-invasive methods for monitoring TAM activity in cancer patients. A comprehensive understanding of the complex role of TAMs in cancer may lead to the development of more effective treatments and improved outcomes for cancer patients.
Development of Climate Smart Fruit Plants via CRISPR/Cas Genome Editing Systems: A Spatiotemporal Review
Authors: Shahzaib Muhammad , Bruegmann Tobias , Shakeel Muhammad , Khan Sultan Habibullah , Azhar Muhammad Tehseen , Atif Rana Muhammad , Fladung Matthias , Rana Iqrar Ahmad
Published: May 2023

Fruit production is an important part of the gross domestic product for many countries around the world especially to those who have a strong focus on agriculture. However, long-term maintenance and yield stability of fruit production may be threatened by the ongoing climate change and its consequences like extended drought periods, heavy rain events, and floodings. Genome editing, with its progressive technological developments, offers opportunities to adapt relevant fruit plant species to new climatic conditions. Among modern genome editing techniques, CRISPR/Cas, in particular, has the potential to support breeding for those fruit plant species with extended breeding cycles, e.g., perennial fruits. In this review, we discuss CRISPR/Cas and other genome editing techniques in detail and how these techniques can be applied to support the breeding of fruit plant species for adaptation to changing climates. The chronological history of CRISPR/Cas9 systems, their associated computational tools, genomic data sources, transformation methods along with their delivery vehicles, quality improvement, environmental-stress resiliency, limitations, and future perspectives will also be discussed with respect to securing future global fruit production.
Urban Ecosystem Services and Determinants of Stakeholder’s Perception for Sustainable Cities Planning: Case of Cotonou City in Benin
Authors: ATCHADE Jonas Assouhan , KANDA Madjouma , FOLEGA Fousseni , Marra Dourma , Wala Kperkouma , AKPAGANA Koffi
Published: May 2023

Anarchic urbanization and land artificialization expose urban ecosystems and Ecosystem Services (ES) to the threat. Urban ecosystems and trees play a crucial role in improving urban environments, and their management depends on the perceptions and preferences of urban residents. An assessment of the socio-ecological factors determining the perception of the actors allows for the proper design and planning of ecological urban policies and urban adaptation to climate change. In this study, we assessed the perception and discriminating variables of the different stakeholders of urban ES provided in the city of Cotonou. Thus, 381 city dwellers were individually interviewed after statistical sampling. Focus group discussions with the stakeholders also made it possible to highlight the ES provided in the different Land Use Units (LU). The results show that 73.23% of the city dwellers agreed that they were aware of ecosystem services. The hierarchical classification shows two homogeneous groups of perceivers with ethnicity, age and education as statistically discriminating sociological variables (pv˂0.001). Urban dwellers in the city of Cotonou perceived more SEs in the cultural and regulatory services category significantly (pv<0.001; v-test>3). The principal component analysis (PCA) reveals the varying availability of ES according to the different LU in the city. This study adds scientific value in the application of urban ecology to decision-making in climate and environment policy planning for sustainable cities in Africa and all over the world.
Proton Mechanisms of Neurotransmission and Calcium Signalling for Impulse Initiation, Development and Propagation
Authors: Molinari Giuliano
Published: May 2023

Protons are gaining increasing attention as neurotransmitters due to their extraordinary abilities to rapidly transfer electrical charge, mobilize cellular calcium and modulate ion channels. How all this is possible is currently the subject of in-depth studies and discussions concerning not only neurophysiology, but also biological materials for artificial intelligence. In this short review, some biochemical mechanisms are described by which protons, in combination with calcium, can initiate firing in sensory neurons and transmit impulse across synapses. Furthermore, mechanisms are put forward concerning how three neurotransmitters, glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid and acetylcholine, are able to generate protons. The results of the numerous experimental works taken into consideration indicate that protons can play a fundamental role both in the generation and in the transmission of the nerve impulse.
Clinical Instructors’ Perspectives on the Assessment of Clinical Knowledge of Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Descriptive Phenomenological Approach
Authors: Chen Li-Chin , Lin ChunChih , Han ChinYen , Huang YaLing
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to determine clinical instructors’ perceptions of the assessments used to evaluate the clinical knowledge of undergraduate nursing students. This study uses a descriptive phenomenological approach. Purposive sampling was used to recruit sixteen clinical instructors for semi-structured interviews between August to December 2019. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method. Four criteria were used to ensure the study’s validity: credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Three themes were identified in the clinical instructors’ views on evaluating the clinical performance of student nurses: familiarity with students, patchwork clinical learning, and differing perceptions of the same scoring system. Study results suggest the need for a reliable, valid, and consistent approach to evaluating students’ clinical knowledge. If the use of patchwork clinical internships for student nurses is unavoidable, a method for assessing student nurses’ clinical performance that requires instructor consensus is necessary.
Patient-Oriented Research to Improve Internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for People of Diverse Ethnocultural Groups in Routine Practice
Authors: Sapkota Ram P. , Valli Emma , Wilhelms Andrew , Adlam Kelly , Bourgeault Lee , Heron Vanessa , Dickerson Kathryn , Nugent Marcie , Hadjistavropoulos Heather D.
Published: May 2023

There has been limited research on improving Internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (ICBT) in routine online therapy clinics that serve people from diverse ethnocultural groups (PDEGs). This article describes a patient-oriented adaptation approach used to address this gap in research. A working group consisting of people with lived experience, community stakeholders, ICBT clinicians, managers, and researchers, was formed. The working group examined archival feedback on ICBT from past clients who self-identified as being from diverse ethnocultural back-grounds (N=278) and results of interviews with current patients (N=16), community stakeholders (N=6), and clinicians (N=3). The archival data and interviews revealed the majority of the pa-tients reported being satisfied with and benefitting from ICBT. Suggestions for improvement were not related to the cognitive-behavioural model and techniques, but rather to making treatment materials more inclusive. Consequently, the ICBT adaptation focused on adding content related to cultural influences on mental health, addressing stigma, diversifying case stories, examples and imagery, adding audiovisual introductions, and replacing English idioms with more descriptive language. Moreover, further training was offered to clinicians and efforts were made to improve community outreach. This study demonstrates a process for using patient-oriented research to improve ICBT within routine care serving patients of diverse backgrounds.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV) From Non-Primary Maternal Infection: Still a Problem?
Authors: Malherbe Victoria , Celen Stefanie , Carkeek³ Katherine , Carapancea Evelina , Auriti Cinzia , Piersigilli Fiammetta
Published: May 2023

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection resulting from non-primary maternal infection or reactivation during pregnancy can cause serious fetal-neonatal sequelae. We describe a male newborn born at term, with signs of perinatal asphyxia, and intractable acute provoked seizures, in the context of severe cCMV infection.
The newborn was delivered in a referral hospital by emergency caesarean section due to fetal distress. Due to signs of asphyxia at birth and clinical moderate encephalopathy (Sarnat 2), he was transferred to our center for therapeutic hypothermia. Continuous full video-electroencephalography monitoring showed no seizures during the first 72 hours, however, soon after rewarming, he presented refractory status epilepticus. Cranial ultrasonography revealed bilateral ventricular and intraparenchymal hemorrhage. Routine infectious screen-ing on urine, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and nasopharyngeal secretions revealed positive CMV DNA Polymer-ase Chain Reaction (PCR) on all samples. The CMV DNA performed on the bloodspot (Guthrie) card taken at birth yielded a positive result, confirming the intrauterine transmission and congenital origin of the infection.
Maternal non-primary CMV infection in pregnancy is transmitted to the fetus in 0.5-2% of cases. When transmitted, it may cause serious fetal abnormalities, complications in the immediate neonatal period, and se-vere sequelae later in childhood. During pregnancy, it is useful to monitor maternal serology for CMV, even in previously immunized mothers, to identify signs of new infection or viral reactivation and implement measures to prevent neonatal sequelae.
The possible advantages of standardized CMV screening of all newborns are a pertinent discussion point, as this may enable us to identify affected neonates timeously and prevent long term disabilities.
Purpureocillium lilacinum for Biocontrol, Bioremediation and Biofertilization
Authors: Santos Carlos Henrique Barbosa , De Andrade Luana Alves , Frezarin Edvan Teciano , Sales Luziane Ramos , Rigobelo Everlon Cid Cid
Published: May 2023

Purpureocillium lilacinum PL11 (formerly Paecilomyces lilacinus) is a ubiquitous fungus found in several habitats, mainly in the soil, and belongs to the Ophiocordycipitaceae family. This fungus was shown to have potential applications in agriculture as a biocontrol agent and biofertilizer. P. lilacinum can inhibit plant‒pathogenic fungi and nematodes, including root-knot and potato cyst nematodes. Additionally, P. lilacinum produces siderophores and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), enhancing plant development and increasing soil nutrient availability. P. lilacinum has been extensively studied in various commodities, including pineapple, maize, soybean, and legume. Most studies have evaluated P. lilacinum as a biocontrol agent, especially for nematode control. Other studies have evaluated the production of secondary metabolites and bioremediation, and few studies have used this fungus as a plant growth promoter. This review addressed important aspects of using this fungus. P. lilacinum is a promising fungus that can be used for agricultural production, reducing environmental impact, and thus collaborating for a sustainable agriculture production system.
Diversity of Diatom Algae in the Lena Delta Nature Reserve and the Adjacent Territory in the Specific Ecological Factors of the Arctic
Authors: Barinova Sophia , Gabyshev Viktor , Genkal Sergey
Published: May 2023

For the water bodies of the Lena Delta Nature Reserve, 413 taxa were known. In 14 small tundra reservoirs in its vicinity, we identified 385 taxa, which in the compilatory list made up a significant diversity (666 taxa including definitions to the genus level) of diatoms. Thus, the species composition of diatoms in the reserve and adjacent territories was replenished by 278 species. The predominance of species of the genera Pinnularia (57) and Eunotia (51) at the family and generic levels was revealed. Index of intraspecific variability Ssp./Sp. for the lakes of the reserve was 1.11, and for the lakes of the Tiksi region 1.14, which is typical for high-latitude and high-mountain communities. The number of rare or endangered species varied in different lakes within 1-10, totaling 42 species for the entire study area. Bioindication has shown that potentially threatened species prefer moderate temperatures, slightly acidic or neutral environments free from organic pollution. A comparative analysis of the species composition of diatoms in the vicinity of the Lena Delta and other northern water bodies of Yakutia and the Arctic Islands showed that the species composition of each lake in the Arctic is strictly individual. The indicator characteristics show a certain response of the species composition of diatoms to changes in salinity, pH, and organic pollution. A number of regularities in the spatial distribution of diatoms in the study area were found in connection with the physicochemical parameters of their habitat, height above sea level, and relation to a particular catchment basin. Statistical mapping of indicators of community and habitat diversity revealed a strong reaction to point one-time pollution and made it possible to assume the influence of summer northeast winds on the species composition. We suggest that the high diversity inherent in the diatom lakes of the Tiksi coastal zone, which can even be replenished in further studies, can be considered as a property of coastal biota inherent in ecotones. Since it is in the coastal Tiksi region that a surge in the number of species is observed, this region can be considered not only an ecotone, but also a hotspot of diatom diversity. The results of the study are important for developing the basis for monitoring biodiversity under the conditions of anthropogenic and climatic changes in the Arctic.
Atrioventricular Node Ablation and Pacing in Patients with Heart Failure and Permanent Atrial Fibrillation: From Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy to His Bundle Pacing
Authors: Koniari Ioanna , Gerakaris Andreas , Kounis Nicholas , Velissaris Dimitrios , Rao Archie , Ainslie Mark , Adlan Ahmed , Plotas Panagiotis , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Mplani Virginia , Hung Ming-Yow , Gregorio Cesare de , Kolettis Theofilos , Gupta Dhiraj
Published: May 2023

Abstract Objective: To review the relevant literature on the use of atrioventricular node ablation and pacing in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Methods: A PubMed/MEDLINE and SCOPUS search was performed in order to assess the clinical outcomes of atrioventricular node ablation and pacemaker implantation, as well as the complications that may occur. Results: Several clinical trials, observational analyses and meta-analyses have shown that “pace and ablate” strategy not only improves symptoms but also can enhance cardiac performance in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Although this procedure is effective and safe, some complications may occur including worsening of heart failure, permanent fibrillation, arrhythmias and sudden death. Regarding the implantation of pacemaker, cardiac resynchronization therapy is shown to be the optimal choice compared to right ventricle apical pacing. His bundle pacing is a promising alternative to cardiac resynchronization therapy and has shown beneficial effects, while left bundle brunch pacing is an innovative modality. Conclusions: Atrioventricular node ablation and implantation of pacemaker is shown to have beneficial effects on clinical outcomes of patients with atrial fibrillation ± heart failure who do not respond or are intolerant to medical treatment. Cardiac resynchronization therapy is the treatment of choice and His bundle pacing seems to be an effective alternative way of pacing in these patients.
Profitability, Leverage, dan Tax Avoidance Perusahaan Tambang di Indonesia
Authors: Rakhmawati Ita , Restuti Dwi Putri
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the effects profitability and leverage on tax avoidance. This study used a quantitative approach supported by secondary data. The population of this study comprises all mining companies listed on the Indonesian Sharia Stock Index (ISSI). The sample was 11 companies according to the specified criteria selected by the purposive sampling method. Based on a panel data regression analysis, the results of this study indicate that profitability and leverage negatively affects tax avoidance. Overall, the model supported that profitability and leverage significantly affect tax avoidance. According to the analysis, where the tendency of tax avoidance is more influenced by profitability, the implications for a government policy related to tax avoidance practices are concentrated on the profitability aspect.

 
Ama:nati as a Non-Material Value of Accounting Practices
Authors: Thalib Mohamad Anwar
Published: May 2023

This study aims to find the value of local wisdom behind how students majoring in Islamic accounting from the Gorontalo tribe practice accounting. This study uses the Islamic paradigm. The approach chosen is Islamic ethnomethodology. The study results indicate that trust (Amanah) is a non-material value that is the leading spirit of Gorontalo ethnic students practicing accounting. The value of this mandate is reflected in the decisions of students who use educational assistance funds from the government to meet all needs related to supporting their education, such as buying books, paying for boarding houses, and laptops. In the culture of the Gorontalo people, this Amanah value is often advised by the elders through lumadu "openu de moputi tulalo, bo dila moputi baya". It means to be ashamed. The feeling of shame is one of them if the local community cannot maintain their mandate. In Islamic religious law, the value of trust is found in Surah an-Nisa verse 58.
Феофил Коридаллевс о природе логики и её отличии от риторики
Authors: Спиридонова Лидия Валентиновна , Курбанов Андрей Викторович
Published: May 2023

Феофил Коридаллевс (1574–1646), глава Патриаршей школы в Константинополе, был одним из ярких представителей одновременно как падуанской, так и греческой школы. Первое сочинение в своём логическом компендиуме Коридаллевс целиком посвящает исследованию природы логики. В первую очередь, он доказывает, что логика не может являться эпистеме (ἐπιστήμη / scientia), а только техне (τέχνη / ars). Для этого он делает подробный обзор значения данных понятий у Аристотеля, чем показывает различие в их понимании современными и латинскими авторами. Коридаллевс не признаёт выделения практической (utens) и теоретической (docens) логики, что позволяло схоластам относить последнюю к scientia. Коридаллевс также не соглашается с положением стоиков, согласно которому логика является частью философии, он считает её инструментом философии. Подробным образом он останавливается на предмете (ὑποκείμενον) логики, а точнее — её материи (поскольку логика является техне, то она имеет материю), а также её целях, т.е. родительном и дательном телосе (τέλος), которые выделял Аристотель на основании грамматических особенностей греческого языка. Таким образом, Коридаллевс пришёл к выводу, что логика  — это инструментальная техне философии, чью материю составляют понятия (νοήματα), выраженные словами (φωναί), означающими вещи; она даёт нам правила, с помощью которых из значащих слов составляются логические инструменты — это и есть её родительный телос, в свою очередь этими инструментами пользуется философия, что позволяет реализовать дательный телос — различение истины от лжи. Риторика, чью материю также составляют слова, отличается образом действия, узостью предмета и иной целью, которой является убеждение аудитории. Отсюда риторика, выходящая из «Топики», является инструментом практической философии, целью которой является благо, тогда как логика — это инструмент теоретической философии, целью которой является познание истины.
Emulating emotional quotient – an augmented BELBIC based strategy for harmonic recession in photovoltaic microgrids
Authors: Brislin Joe , Maruthachalam Sundaram
Published: May 2023

For the harmonic suppression in photovoltaic microgrids, two interdependent control loops: primary current control loop and secondary voltage control loop is necessary. In this paper, an intelligent secondary controller depicting brain emotional learning based intelligent controller (BELBIC) is suggested. The primitive nature of mammalian brain to learn using emotional quotient is the underlying theory of BELBIC. The original BELBIC is augmented with state awareness knowledge and an upgraded a-BELBIC is proposed in this paper. The proposed controller acquires intelligence through emotional learning and gives promising results in state detection and harmonics deduction. It is also intended to resolve harmonic surge caused by redundant control actions, without compromising on the dynamic response of system. Additionally, it also remains unaffected by insignificant variations during the steady state and reduces the overwork of the primary current controller due to weather deviations. It is completely model-free and is proved to handle computational complexity, system ambiguity and non-linearity. It is compared with PI and NN controller to prove its excellence in harmonic recession and combating subharmonics Moreover, the primary controller administering current control in the inner loop is carried out by the finite control set based model predictive control (MPC). Comprehensively, the validation of robust primary controller and proposed intelligent secondary controller for diversified test cases is assessed using simulations performed in MATLAB/Simulink mathematical engine and tested for hardware-in-loop efficacy using dSPACE DS1104 RTI. The proposed a-BELBIC is observed to reduce the settling time by 18.75%, overshoot by 17.05% and the execution time by 75% in comparison to NN Controller.
Age-related decline in osteocytic TGFβ signaling disrupts collagen integrity and bone quality
Authors: Schurman Charles , Kaya Serra , Dole Neha , Luna Nadja Maldonado , Castillo Natalia , Potter Ryan , Rose Jacob , Bons Joanna , King Christina , Burton Jordan , Schilling Birgit , Melov Simon , Tang Simon , Schaible Eric , Alliston Tamara
Published: May 2023

Poor bone quality (BQ) is a major factor in skeletal fragility in the elderly. Molecular mechanisms establishing and maintaining BQ, independent of bone mass, are unknown but are thought to be primarily determined by osteocytes. We hypothesize that the age-related decline in BQ results from suppression of osteocyte perilacunar/canalicular remodeling (PLR), which maintains bone material properties. We examined bones from young and aged mice with an osteocyte-intrinsic repression of TGFβ signaling (TβRIIocy-/-) that suppresses PLR. Control-aged bone displayed decreased TGFβ signaling and PLR, but aging male TβRIIocy-/- bone did not worsen existing PLR suppression. This epistatic relationship impacted collagen material behavior at the nano and tissue scale in macromechanical tests. The effects of age on bone mass, density, and mineral material behavior were independent of osteocytic TGFβ. We determine that the decline of BQ with age arises from lost osteocyte function and maintenance of collagen integrity in a TGFβ-dependent fashion.
Behind Political Affiliation: How Moral Values, Identity Politics and Party Loyalty Have Affected COVID-19Vaccine Uptake
Authors: Fortunato Piergiuseppe , Lombini Alessio
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the association between political partisanship, moral values, and willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 across U.S. counties. It shows how vaccine hesitancy has been strongly associated with political affiliation since the early stages of the vaccination campaign, with higher differences recorded in historically partisan counties. These differences are shown to be partly explained by the moral values that underpin political preferences, in particular those linked to altruism and fairness, that are more diffused in the Democratic electorate. The paper also unveils significant differences that emerged within the Republican field, uncovering the specific role plaid by the populist right-wing of the Party, and examines loyalty effects related to the presence of co-partisan state governors. All the results remain qualitatively unaffected when taking into consideration differences in the timing of vaccination campaigns across states and the potential endogeneity of political preferences.
Proposal of a new genomic framework for categorization of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia associated with prognosis
Authors: Umeda Masayuki , Ma Jing , Westover Tamara , Ni Yonghui , Song Guangchun , Maciaszek Jamie , Rusch Michael , Rahbarinia Delaram , Foy Scott , Huang Benjamin , Walsh Michael , Kumar Priyadarshini , Liu Yanling , Fan Yiping , Wu Gang , Baker Sharyn , Ma Xiaotu , Wang Lu , rubnitz Jeffrey , Pounds Stanley , Klco Jeffery
Published: May 2023

Recent studies on pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (pAML) have revealed pediatric-specific driver alterations, many of which are underrepresented in the current classification schemas. To comprehensively define the genomic landscape of pAML, we systematically categorized 895 pAML into 23 molecular categories that are mutually distinct from one another, including new entities such as UBTF or BCL11B, covering 91.4% of the cohort. These molecular categories were associated with unique expression profiles and mutational patterns. For instance, molecular categories characterized by specific HOXA or HOXB expression signatures showed distinct mutation patterns of RAS pathway genes, FLT3, or WT1, suggesting shared biological mechanisms. We show that molecular categories were strongly associated with clinical outcomes using two independent cohorts, leading to the establishment of a prognostic framework for pAML based on molecular categories and minimal residual disease. Together, this comprehensive diagnostic and prognostic framework forms the basis for future classification of pAML and treatment strategies.
Retrofitting an Existing Multi-Span Continuous Reinforced Concrete Highway Bridge by Using the Concept of Weakening and Viscous Damping
Authors: gurbuz ali , Kiral Adnan , Ustabas Ilker
Published: May 2023

It's crucial to keep bridges safe and operational all the time. They may require immediate seismic retrofitting before or after an earthquake. A solution could be using the concepts of weakening and damping, which have not been widely used in bridge applications. The weakening is achieved by isolating piers with Elastomer Bearings (EBs), and viscous dampers are added for the damping part. Since a proper damping coefficient distribution and velocity exponent are required for the concept, the study investigated an optimal velocity exponent and presented a novel iterative-based design approach for viscous damper distributions. The results revealed that Sys1 (EBs + nonlinear viscous damper) and Sys2 (EBs + linear viscous damper) lowered the maximum bending moment of the most affected pier between 77% and 89%, and 82% and 90.5%, respectively when compared to the “pier fixed” system (i.e., the piers are fixed to the deck). For the maximum deck shear force, Sys1 increased the forces between 70% and 155%, whereas Sys2 increased the forces between 17% and 77%. In conclusion, Sys2 outperformed Sys1 by lowering the piers' bending moment and resulting in lower deck shear forces. Deck shear forces could also be decreased to a tolerable level by selecting a bearing with different mechanical properties (such as a lead rubber bearing).
Representation of voice hearing groups by French mental health professionals
Authors: Evrard Renaud , Braun Arthur , Krebs Typhaine , Raffort Clémentine , Canto Juan-Pablo Robledo del
Published: May 2023

Background Hearing voices groups (HVGs) are an alternative way of treating acoustic-verbal hallucinations. Although they have been developing in France for the last decade, they have lagged behind their international expansion. The representations that circulate about their functioning and their effects are likely to influence the referral to these groups by mental health professionals.Aims We created and used a questionnaire to survey mental health professionals’ representations of voice hearing groups.Method We surveyed 79 French health professionals using a questionnaire with 19 closed items. 7 additional items allowed us to specify the professional status and familiarity of the participants with the HVGs.Results Professionals generally shared positive representations of HVGs but had very approximate knowledge of them. The subgroup of the most familiar professionals (N = 45) differed significantly on 7 items from the subgroup of non-familiars (N = 35).Conclusions HVGs are represented as one medical offer among others, of little clinical use and indicated only for psychotic voice-hearing patients, which seems to be a misunderstanding in every case. However, our study also shows that these opinions evolve with the degree of familiarity with HVGs. Certain representations need to be corrected so that quality information can be circulated about HVGs and improve their integration into their ecosystem.
Genetic interactions between Polycystin-1 and TAZ in osteoblasts define a novel mechanosensing mechanism regulating bone formation in mice
Authors: Cao Li , Smith Micholas , Li Hanxuan , Li Wei , Smith Jeremy , Quarles L. Darryl , Xiao Zhousheng
Published: May 2023

Molecular mechanisms transducing physical forces in the bone microenvironment to regulate bone mass are poorly understood. Here, we used mouse genetics, mechanical loading, and pharmacological approaches to test the possibility that polycystin-1 and TAZ have interdependent mechanosensing functions in osteoblasts. We created and compared the skeletal phenotypes of control Pkd1flox/+;TAZflox/+, single Pkd1Oc-cKO, single TAZOc-cKO, and double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice to investigate genetic interactions. Consistent with an interaction between polycystins and TAZ in bone in vivo, double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice exhibited greater reductions of BMD and periosteal MAR than either single TAZOc-cKO or Pkd1Oc-cKO mice. Micro-CT 3D image analysis indicated that the reduction in bone mass was due to greater loss in both trabecular bone volume and cortical bone thickness in double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice compared to either single Pkd1Oc-cKO or TAZOc-cKO mice. Double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice also displayed additive reductions in mechanosensing and osteogenic gene expression profiles in bone compared to single Pkd1Oc-cKO or TAZOc-cKO mice. Moreover, we found that double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice exhibited impaired responses to tibia mechanical loading in vivo and attenuation of load-induced mechanosensing gene expression compared to control mice. Finally, control mice treated with a small molecule mechanomimetic MS2 had marked increases in femoral BMD and periosteal MAR compared to vehicle control. In contrast, double Pkd1/TAZOc-cKO mice were resistant to the anabolic effects of MS2 that activates the polycystin signaling complex. These findings suggest that PC1 and TAZ form an anabolic mechanotransduction signaling complex that responds to mechanical loading and serve as a potential novel therapeutic target for treating osteoporosis.
Low density polyethylene-multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite membranes with enhanced conductivity for highly sensitive vapor sensing
Authors: Shi Suyu , Xu Wenzhong , Zhou Bing , Qin Shengxue , Liu Xianhu , Li Handong
Published: May 2023

A facile technique was reported for fabricating high conductivity and improved strength of linear low-density polyethylene/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (LLDPE /MWNTs) composite films by the ultrasonication anchoring technique and compression molding treatment. Thermal property, mechanical property, electrical conductivity, microstructures, optical property and organic vapor sensing behaviors of the MWNTs/LLDPE composite films were studied. The MWNTs are uniformly anchored onto the surface of LLDPE matrix and the conductive networks are easily formed by the ultrasonication anchoring technique. After compression molding treatment, the incorporation of MWNTs causes an easier formation of LLDPE extended-chain, which is wrapped around of MWNTs shish. The MWNTs/LLDPE composite films exhibit excellent conductivity of 2.79×105 Ω∙cm with 0.15 wt% MWNTs anchored. Meanwhile, the tensile strength of the composite films reaches 18.9 MPa. Interestingly, transparency is not significantly reduced. The sensitivity and reversibility to two typical solvents, i.e., acetone and xylene, during exposure-drying runs have been demonstrated. This work opens a new orientation to optimize the conductivity of MWNTs/LLDPE composite films with a wide range of prospect in the field of vapor sensor.
Identification of stable QTLs and candidate genes associated with plant height and spike length in common wheat
Authors: Sardouei-Nasab Somayeh , Mohammadi-Nejad Ghasem , Nakhoda Babak
Published: May 2023

Three RIL mapping populations derived from bi-parental crosses between a common parental line Roshan (Triticum aestivum L.) and three cultivars: Sabalan, Falat and Superhead. RILs were grown over three years at five separate locations under water stress and well-watered condition. Plant height and spike length were collected at each experiment. Genetic map distances among markers were carried out using DArT markers. Single-environment and multi-environment analyses were performed using inclusive composite interval mapping (ICIM). Epistasis and epistasis × environment interactions were also performed through an epistatic QTL analysis in Ici-Mapping 4. Single locus analysis allowed the detection of 32 main effect QTL (M-QTL) in the three populations. Three novel stable and non-epistatic QTL, one QTL for plant height (qPH1D, in Sabalan background) and two QTLs for spike length (qSL1D and qSL1B.3, in Falat and Superhead backgrounds, respectively) were identified. 191 candidate genes were predicted in the physical interval between the flanking markers on chromosomes 1B, 1D and 4B. 20 genes were highlighted as putative candidate genes with probable role in plant height and spike-related traits in wheat. These results would lay a good foundation for fine mapping of QTLs/genes for molecular marker-assisted breeding in wheat in the future.
Return-to-school effects on suicide attempts in adolescents: a cross-sectional comparison between COVID-19 pre-pandemic and pandemic school semesters.
Authors: Gracia-Liso Rebeca , Portella Maria J , Pujals-Altés Elena , Puntí-Vidal Joaquim , Llorens Marta , Pàmias Montserrat , Fradera-Jiménez Marc , Montalvo-Aguirrezabala Itziar , Palao Diego
Published: May 2023

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic had and still have a major impact on adolescent mental health and consequently on suicidal behavior. However, few studies have investigated whether the pandemic has changed the patterns and the triggers of suicidality peaks in adolescents, e.g., seasonal patterns or family conflicts. We hypothesized that the pandemic modified suicidality rates: an increment of suicide attempts would be observed in the first semester of the academic year during COVID-19 pandemic compared to the same period of previous academic year; and the precipitating factors would be more related to social stressors during the pandemic school year.
Methods
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the precipitating factors, also including school-related factors and cognitive skills, of suicide attempts of adolescents occurred in the first and second semesters of the year before the pandemic lockdown (study periods 1 and 2) and the year after (study periods 3 and 4).
Results
The sample consisted of 85 adolescents aged between 12 and 17 recruited consecutively from March 2019 to March 2021 at emergency ward because of suicide attempt. Forty-eight adolescents (55.3% of the sample) were attended before the lockdown (pre-pandemic group) and 38 (44.7%) the year after. The results showed a higher proportion of suicide attempts in girls in period 4 (Sept 2020-Mar 2021) compared to the rest of periods (p = 0.026). The multinomial regression models showed a significant increase in the frequency of suicide attempts in the first semester of the pandemic academic year compared to the second semester of the pre-pandemic year, with depressive symptoms being a significant contributing factor (p = 0.04). Additionally, social triggers and age were found to be significant risk factors for suicide attempts in the first semester of the pandemic academic year compared to the same semester of the pre-pandemic year (p = 0.006 and p = 0.01, respectively).
Conclusions
During the pandemic, suicide attempts in girls increased more significantly in the first semester than in the previous year, and it was associated with greater severity of depressive symptoms. Social relations in back-to-school after the lockdown was a relevant trigger of suicide attempts in adolescents.
Structural and functional analysis of hyper thermostable ancestral L-amino acid oxidase that can convert Trp derivatives to D-forms by chemo-enzymatic reaction
Authors: Kawamura Yui , Ishida Chiharu , Miyata Ryo , Miyata Azusa , Hayashi Seiichiro , Fujinami Daisuke , Ito Sohei , Nakano Shogo
Published: May 2023

Establishing a reaction system to produce D-amino acids (D-AAs) on a large-scale has been required for now. In this study, we designed a novel L-amino acid oxidase, HTAncLAAO2, by ancestral sequence reconstruction, exhibiting high thermostability and long-term stability. The crystal structure of HTAncLAAO2 was determined at 2.2 Å by X-ray crystallography, revealing that the enzyme has an octameric form like a "ninja-star" feature. Enzymatic property analysis demonstrated that HTAncLAAO2 exhibits three-order larger kcat/Km values towards four L-AAs (L-Phe, L-Leu, L-Met, and L-Ile) than that of L-Trp. Through screening the variants, we obtained the HTAncLAAO2(W220A) variant, which shows >6-fold increase in kcat value toward L-Trp compared to the original enzyme. This variant applies to synthesizing enantio-pure D-Trp derivatives from L- or rac-forms at a preparative scale. Given its excellent properties, HTAncLAAO2 would be a starting point for designing novel oxidases with high activity toward various amines and AAs.