bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart Grid Communication Networks for Electric Vehicles Empowering Distributed Energy Generation: Constraints, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Kamrul , Habib AKM Ahasan , Islam Shayla , Balfaqih Mohammed , Alfawaz Khaled M. , Singh Dalbir
Published: January 2023

Modern communication networks and digital control techniques are used in a smart grid. The first step is to classify the features of several communication networks and conduct a comparative investigation of the communication networks applicable to the smart grid. The integration of distributed generation has significantly increased as the global energy demand rises, and sustainable energy for electric vehicles and renewable energies worldwide are being pursued. Additional explanations for this surge include environmental concerns, the reforming of the power sector, and the advancing of small-scale electricity generation technologies. Smart monitoring and control of interconnected systems are required to successfully integrate distributed generation into an existing conventional power system. Electric-vehicles-based smart grid technologies are capable of playing this part. Smart grids are crucial to avoid becoming locked in an obsolete energy infrastructure and to draw in new investment sources and build an effective and adaptable grid system. To achieve reliability and high-quality power systems, it is also necessary to apply intelligent grid technologies at the bulk power generation and transmission levels. This paper presents smart grid applicable communication networks and electric vehicles empowering distributed generation systems. Additionally, we address some constraints and challenges and make recommendations that will give proper guidelines for academicians and researchers to resolve the current issues.
Reproduction of Nanofluid Synthesis, Thermal Properties and Experiments in Engineering: A Research Paradigm Shift
Authors: Yasmin Humaira , Giwa Solomon O. , Noor Saima , Aybar Hikmet Ş.
Published: January 2023

The suspension of different nanoparticles into various conventional thermal fluids to synthesize nanofluids has been proven to possess superior thermal, optical, tribological, and convective properties, and the heat transfer performance over conventional thermal fluids. This task appears trivial but is complicated and significant to nanofluid synthesis and its subsequent utilization in diverse applications. The stability of mono and hybrid nanofluids is significantly related to stirring duration and speed; volume, density, and base fluid type; weight/volume concentration, density, nano-size, and type of mono or hybrid nanoparticles used; type and weight of surfactant used; and sonication time, frequency, mode, and amplitude. The effects of these parameters on stability consequently affect the thermal, optical, tribological, and convective properties, and the heat transfer performance of nanofluids in various applications, leading to divergent, inaccurate, and suspicious results. Disparities in results have inundated the public domain in this regard. Thus, this study utilized published works in the public domain to highlight the trend in mono or hybrid nanofluid formulation presently documented as the norm, with the possibility of changing the status quo. With the huge progress made in this research area in which a large quantum of different nanoparticles, base fluids, and surfactants have been deployed and more are still emerging in the application of these advanced thermal fluids in diverse areas, there is a need for conformity and better accuracy of results. Reproduction of results of stability, thermal, optical, tribological, anti-wear, and fuel properties; photothermal conversion; and supercooling, lubrication, engine, combustion, emission, thermo-hydraulic, and heat transfer performances of formulated mono or hybrid nanofluids are possible through the optimization and detailed documentation of applicable nanofluid preparation parameters (stirring time and speed, sonication duration, amplitude, mode, frequency, and surfactant concentration) employed in formulating mono or hybrid nanofluids. This proposed approach is expected to project a new frontier in nanofluid research and serve as a veritable working guide to the nanofluid research community.
Thermochemical Energy Storage with Integrated District Heat Production–A Case Study of Sweden
Authors: Guío-Pérez Diana Carolina , Martinez Castilla Guillermo , Pallarès David , Thunman Henrik , Johnsson Filip
Published: January 2023

The implementation of electricity-charged thermochemical energy storage (TCES) using high-temperature solid cycles would benefit the energy system by enabling the absorption of variable renewable energy (VRE) and its conversion into dispatchable heat and power. Using a Swedish case study, this paper presents a process for TCES-integrated district heating (DH) production, assesses its technical suitability, and discusses some practical implications and additional implementation options. The mass and energy flows of a biomass plant retrofitted with an iron-based redox loop are calculated for nine specific scenarios that exemplify its operation under electricity generation mixes that differ with respect to variability and price. In addition, the use of two types of electrolyzers (low-temperature and high-temperature versions) is investigated. The results show that for the Swedish case, the proposed scheme is technically feasible and capable of covering the national DH demand by making use of the existing DH plants, with an estimated process energy efficiency (electricity to heat) of 90%. The results also show that for a retrofit of the entire Swedish DH fleet, the required inventories of iron are approximately 2.8 Mt for the intermediate scenario, which represents 0.3% and 11.0% of the national reserves and annual metallurgical production rates of the national industry, respectively. In addition to the dispatchable heat, the process generates a significant amount of nondispatchable heat, especially for the case that employs low-temperature electrolyzers. This added generation capacity allows the process to cover the heat demand while decreasing the maximum capacity of the charging side computed herein.
Combined Energetic and Exergetic Performance Analysis of Air Bubbles Injection into a Plate Heat Exchanger: An Experimental Study
Authors: Marouf Zakaria M. , Fouad Mahmoud A.
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to give a comprehensive energetic-exergetic performance analysis on the impacts of injecting-submillimeter of air bubbles into both sides of cold and hot water streams before the entrance port of a corrugated plate heat exchanger (C-PHE) having ten plates within counterflow configuration. Hence, optimize the energy and exergy effectiveness at different operating conditions for counter and parallel fluid flow configurations. Hot streams were studied in seven flow rates ranging from 280 L/h to 880 L/h with a regular step of 100 L/h, and constant hot water temperature and cold-water stream of 50 °C and 290 L/h, respectively. Hence, the air was discharged with four flow rates ranging between 150 and 840 L/h. The obtained results showed the vital role of the ABI technique in enhancing the NTU and effectiveness by 59% and 18.6%, respectively, for CWS. The entropy generation was reduced to 0.038 W/K and the augmentation entropy generation number to 0.087 at the low airflow rate for CWS, which are the main parameters for evaluating the EGM. These two parameters increase the Witte-Shamsundar-efficiency to a maximum value of 98.6% at the same operating conditions. Moreover, the exergy effectiveness was enhanced to a maximum value of 80.9% at a high ABI flow rate and low volumetric rate of the hot stream at CWS. The thermo-economic assessment has been carried out, which revelers the positive effects of ABI on the combined energetic and exergetic performance on both sides, i.e., hot and cold sides.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Environments in 2022
Authors:   Environments Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Tree Felling with Stone Axes: Pre-Bending Matters but Feller Sex Does Not
Authors: Putz Francis E. , Fletcher Trey , Magee Lukas
Published: January 2023

Based on recent insights about intensive soil husbandry by some Neolithic farmers combined with the required techniques for efficient use of stone tools, this research questions the emphasis in the experimental archaeology literature on felling of large trees by stone-axe-wielding males working alone. To reflect conditions after the short fallows now thought to have been favored by farmers using stone tools, young (8–12 years) and small (3.5–5.6 cm diameter) Quercus hemisphaerica (laurel oak) trees were felled in this study by both male and female participants. Felling with a stone axe required an average of 75 more strokes than for felling a similar sized tree with a steel axe. One novel finding in this study is that when the Quercus hemisphaerica (laurel oak) saplings were bent over/tensioned by a co-worker, the predicted numbers of felling strokes declined by 123 (73%) for stone axes and by 15 (72%) for steel axes. We also observed no effect of sex on felling efficiency with stone axes. These results suggest that stone-tool wielding farmers of both sexes worked together to clear trees from their fallowed fields.
Correction: Avdanina, D.; Zghun A. Sherry Wines: Worldwide Production, Chemical Composition and Screening Conception for Flor Yeasts. Fermentation 2022, 8, 381
Authors: Avdanina Daria , Zghun Alexander
Published: January 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Evaluation of Fire Hazard in Electrical Installations Due to Unfavorable Ambient Thermal Conditions
Authors: Szultka Seweryn , Czapp Stanislaw , Tomaszewski Adam , Ullah Hayat
Published: January 2023

Evaluation of fire hazard caused by electrical installations is a difficult and important topic, and it limits the possibility of loss of life or health of people, as well as the occurrence of significant property damage. In particular, this hazard was caused by power cables and especially photovoltaic (PV) installations. The authors proved that power cables directly exposed to strong solar radiation are likely to exceed maximum permissible temperature in unfavorable ambient conditions. Overheated and damaged cable insulation can be a source of electric shock and a strong leakage current causing fire. In the case of typical PV connectors (MC4 connectors), the main problem is poor contact at the connections of the PV cables. A poor connection can even cause the connector to melt, as shown in this study. In the paper, the authors present a computer simulation regarding critical thermal points of electrical installations, in particular, of the PV type. It may be an indication of what should be paid attention to when designing and implementing such installations. This is important for the safety of people and buildings.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Foundations in 2022
Authors:   Foundations Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Fractional View Study of the Brusselator Reaction–Diffusion Model Occurring in Chemical Reactions
Authors: Alshammari Saleh , Al-Sawalha M. Mossa , Humaidi Jamal R.
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we study a fractional Brusselator reaction–diffusion model with the help of the residual power series transform method. Specific reaction–diffusion chemical processes are modeled by applying the fractional Brusselator reaction–diffusion model. It should be mentioned that many problems in nonlinear science are characterized by fractional differential equations, where an unknown term occurs when a fractional-order derivative is operating on it. The analytic method of this problem is rarely discussed in the literature, despite numerous scholars having researched its application and usefulness. To validate our proposed method’s accuracy, we compare the numerical results of the residual power series transform method and the exact result with different fractional orders. The solution shows that the introduced approach is a good tool for solving linear and nonlinear fractional system differential equations. Finally, we provide two and three-dimensional graphical plots to support the impact of the fractional derivative on the behavior of the achieved profile results to the proposed equations.
The Allocation of Greenhouse Gas Emission in European Union through Applying the Claims Problems Approach
Authors: Salekpay Foroogh
Published: January 2023

Due to the challenge of global warming, the European Union (EU) signed the Paris Agreement (2015) to diminish total Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. This paper addresses the conflict that EU member states face when they want to follow the target of the Paris Agreement for the period 2021–2030 which is a 55% GHG emission reduction by 2030 (compared with GHG emission in 1990). EU member states have to emit at a level that is lower than their emission needs. To solve this problem, we implement the claims problems approach as a method for distributing insufficient resources among parties with greater demands. We use several well-known division rules to divide the emission budget among EU member states. We define a set of principles that should be satisfied by division rules to select the most optimal allocation method. To diminish the effect of countries’ preferences on the allocation we use equity and stability criteria to examine the fairness of the rules. Moreover, we allocate the emission budget in two ways: First, we apply division rules to allocate the total emission budget for 2021–2030 among countries. Second, we allocate the emission budget annually from 2021 to 2030. We propose that Constrained Equal Awards (CEA) is an appropriate division rule to meet the target of 2030.
Stimuli-Responsive Properties of Supramolecular Gels Based on Pyridyl-N-oxide Amides
Authors: Jayabhavan Sreejith Sudhakaran , Kristinsson Baldur , Ghosh Dipankar , Breton Charlène , Damodaran Krishna K.
Published: January 2023

The nature of functional groups and their relative position and orientation play an important role in tuning the gelation properties of stimuli-responsive supramolecular gels. In this work, we synthesized and characterized mono-/bis-pyridyl-N-oxide compounds of N-(4-pyridyl)nicotinamide (L1–L3). The gelation properties of these N-oxide compounds were compared with the reported isomeric counterpart mono-/bis-pyridyl-N-oxide compounds of N-(4-pyridyl)isonicotinamide. Hydrogels obtained with L1 and L3 were thermally and mechanically more stable than the corresponding isomeric counterparts. The surface morphology of the xerogels of di-N-oxides (L3 and diNO) obtained from the water was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed that the relative position of N-oxide moieties did not have a prominent effect on the gel morphology. The solid-state structural analysis was performed using single-crystal X-ray diffraction to understand the key mechanism in gel formation. The versatile nature of N-oxide moieties makes these gels highly responsive toward an external stimulus, and the stimuli-responsive behavior of the gels in water and aqueous mixtures was studied in the presence of various salts. We studied the effect of various salts on the gelation behavior of the hydrogels, and the results indicated that the salts could induce gelation in L1 and L3 below the minimum gelator concentration of the gelators. The mechanical properties were evaluated by rheological experiments, indicating that the modified compounds displayed enhanced gel strength in most cases. Interestingly, cadmium chloride formed supergelator at a very low concentration (0.7 wt% of L3), and robust hydrogels were obtained at higher concentrations of L3. These results show that the relative position of N-oxide moieties is crucial for the effective interaction of the gelator with salts/ions resulting in LMWGs with tunable properties.
Novel Triple Stimuli Responsive Interpenetrating Poly(Carboxybetaine Methacrylate)/Poly(Sulfobetaine Methacrylate) Network
Authors: Ruseva Konstans , Todorova Katerina , Zhivkova Tanya , Milcheva Rositsa , Ivanov Dimitar , Dimitrov Petar , Alexandrova Radostina , Vassileva Elena
Published: January 2023

The study reports the synthesis and characterization of novel triple stimuli responsive interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) based on two polyzwitterionic networks, namely of poly(carboxybetaine methacrylate) and poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate). The zwitterionic IPN hydrogel demonstrates the ability to expand or shrink in response to changes in three “biological” external stimuli such as temperature, pH, and salt concentration. The IPN hydrogel shows good mechanical stability. In addition, other important features such as non-cytotoxicity and antibiofouling activity against three widespread bacteria as P. Aeruginosa, A. Baumanii, and K. Pneumoniae are demonstrated. The in vivo behavior of the novel zwitterionic IPN hydrogel suggests that this smart material has very good potential as a biomaterial.
SERPINB3, Adult-Onset Immunodeficiency, and Generalized Pustular Psoriasis
Authors: Kantaputra Piranit , Daroontum Teerada , Chuamanochan Mati , Chaowattanapanit Suteeraporn , Kiratikanon Salin , Choonhakarn Charoen , Intachai Worrachet , Olsen Bjorn , Tongsima Sissades , Ngamphiw Chumpol , Pontisso Patrizia , Cox Timothy C. , Ounjai Puey
Published: January 2023

Background: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP; MIM 614204) is a rare and severe pustular autoinflammatory skin disease in which acute generalized erythema and scaling develop with numerous sterile pustules. GPP shares skin manifestations, especially pustular skin reaction, with adult-onset immunodeficiency (AOID) with anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies, an autoimmune disease. Methods: Clinical examinations and whole-exome sequencing (WES) were performed on 32 patients with pustular psoriasis phenotypes and 21 patients with AOID with pustular skin reaction. Immunohistochemical and histopathological studies were performed. Results: WES identified three Thai patients presenting with similar pustular phenotypes—two with a diagnosis of AOID and the other with GPP. A heterozygous missense variant chr18:g.61325778C>A NM_006919.2: c.438G>T; NP_008850.1: p.Lys146Asn; rs193238900 in SERPINB3 was identified in two patients: one with GPP and the other with AOID. The other patient who had AOID carried a heterozygous missense variant chr18:g.61323147T>C NM_006919.2: c.917A>G; NP_008850.1: p.Asp306Gly in SERPINB3. Immunohistochemical studies showed overexpression of SERPINA1 and SERPINB3, a hallmark of psoriatic skin lesions. Conclusions: Genetic variants in SERPINB3 are associated with GPP and AOID with pustular skin reaction. The skin of patients with GPP and AOID carrying SERPINB3 mutations showed overexpression of SERPINB3 and SERPINA1. Clinically and genetically, GPP and AOID appear to share pathogenetic mechanisms.
scDR: Predicting Drug Response at Single-Cell Resolution
Authors: Lei Wanyue , Yuan Mengqin , Long Min , Zhang Tao , Huang Yu-e , Liu Haizhou , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2023

Heterogeneity exists inter- and intratumorally, which might lead to different drug responses. Therefore, it is extremely important to clarify the drug response at single-cell resolution. Here, we propose a precise single-cell drug response (scDR) prediction method for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. We calculated a drug-response score (DRS) for each cell by integrating drug-response genes (DRGs) and gene expression in scRNA-seq data. Then, scDR was validated through internal and external transcriptomics data from bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq of cell lines or patient tissues. In addition, scDR could be used to predict prognoses for BLCA, PAAD, and STAD tumor samples. Next, comparison with the existing method using 53,502 cells from 198 cancer cell lines showed the higher accuracy of scDR. Finally, we identified an intrinsic resistant cell subgroup in melanoma, and explored the possible mechanisms, such as cell cycle activation, by applying scDR to time series scRNA-seq data of dabrafenib treatment. Altogether, scDR was a credible method for drug response prediction at single-cell resolution, and helpful in drug resistant mechanism exploration.
GReNaDIne: A Data-Driven Python Library to Infer Gene Regulatory Networks from Gene Expression Data
Authors: Schmitt Pauline , Sorin Baptiste , Frouté Timothée , Parisot Nicolas , Calevro Federica , Peignier Sergio
Published: January 2023

Context: Inferring gene regulatory networks (GRN) from high-throughput gene expression data is a challenging task for which different strategies have been developed. Nevertheless, no ever-winning method exists, and each method has its advantages, intrinsic biases, and application domains. Thus, in order to analyze a dataset, users should be able to test different techniques and choose the most appropriate one. This step can be particularly difficult and time consuming, since most methods’ implementations are made available independently, possibly in different programming languages. The implementation of an open-source library containing different inference methods within a common framework is expected to be a valuable toolkit for the systems biology community. Results: In this work, we introduce GReNaDIne (Gene Regulatory Network Data-driven Inference), a Python package that implements 18 machine learning data-driven gene regulatory network inference methods. It also includes eight generalist preprocessing techniques, suitable for both RNA-seq and microarray dataset analysis, as well as four normalization techniques dedicated to RNA-seq. In addition, this package implements the possibility to combine the results of different inference tools to form robust and efficient ensembles. This package has been successfully assessed under the DREAM5 challenge benchmark dataset. The open-source GReNaDIne Python package is made freely available in a dedicated GitLab repository, as well as in the official third-party software repository PyPI Python Package Index. The latest documentation on the GReNaDIne library is also available at Read the Docs, an open-source software documentation hosting platform. Contribution: The GReNaDIne tool represents a technological contribution to the field of systems biology. This package can be used to infer gene regulatory networks from high-throughput gene expression data using different algorithms within the same framework. In order to analyze their datasets, users can apply a battery of preprocessing and postprocessing tools and choose the most adapted inference method from the GReNaDIne library and even combine the output of different methods to obtain more robust results. The results format provided by GReNaDIne is compatible with well-known complementary refinement tools such as PYSCENIC.
Lend Me Your EARs: A Systematic Review of the Broad Functions of EAR Motif-Containing Transcriptional Repressors in Plants
Authors: Chow Vanessa , Kirzinger Morgan W. , Kagale Sateesh
Published: January 2023

The ethylene-responsive element binding factor-associated amphiphilic repression (EAR) motif, defined by the consensus sequence patterns LxLxL or DLNx(x)P, is found in a diverse range of plant species. It is the most predominant form of active transcriptional repression motif identified so far in plants. Despite its small size (5 to 6 amino acids), the EAR motif is primarily involved in the negative regulation of developmental, physiological and metabolic functions in response to abiotic and biotic stresses. Through an extensive literature review, we identified 119 genes belonging to 23 different plant species that contain an EAR motif and function as negative regulators of gene expression in various biological processes, including plant growth and morphology, metabolism and homeostasis, abiotic stress response, biotic stress response, hormonal pathways and signalling, fertility, and ripening. Positive gene regulation and transcriptional activation are studied extensively, but there remains much more to be discovered about negative gene regulation and the role it plays in plant development, health, and reproduction. This review aims to fill the knowledge gap and provide insights into the role that the EAR motif plays in negative gene regulation, and provoke further research on other protein motifs specific to repressors.
Functional Assessment of a New PBX1 Variant in a 46,XY Fetus with Severe Syndromic Difference of Sexual Development through CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing
Authors: Mary Laura , Leclerc Delphine , Labalme Audrey , Bellaud Pascale , Mazaud-Guittot Séverine , Dréano Stéphane , Evrard Bertrand , Bigand Antoine , Cauchoix Aurélie , Loget Philippe , Lokchine Anna , Cluzeau Laurence , Gilot David , Belaud-Rotureau Marc-Antoine , Jaillard Sylvie
Published: January 2023

Sexual development is a complex process relying on numerous genes. Disruptions in some of these genes are known to cause differences of sexual development (DSDs). Advances in genome sequencing allowed the discovery of new genes implicated in sexual development, such as PBX1. We present here a fetus with a new PBX1 NM_002585.3: c.320G>A,p.(Arg107Gln) variant, presenting with severe DSD along with renal and lung malformations. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing on HEK293T cells, we generated a KD cell line for PBX1. The KD cell line showed reduced proliferation and adhesion properties compared with HEK293T cells. HEK293T and KD cells were then transfected plasmids coding either PBX1 WT or PBX1-320G>A (mutant). WT or mutant PBX1 overexpression rescued cell proliferation in both cell lines. RNA-seq analyses showed less than 30 differentially expressed genes, in ectopic mutant-PBX1-expressing cells compared with WT-PBX1. Among them, U2AF1, encoding a splicing factor subunit, is an interesting candidate. Overall, mutant PBX1 seems to have modest effects compared with WT PBX1 in our model. However, the recurrence of PBX1 Arg107 substitution in patients with closely related phenotypes calls for its impact in human diseases. Further functional studies are needed to explore its effects on cellular metabolism.
Antifungal Activity of Plant Waste Extracts against Phytopathogenic Fungi: Allium sativum Peels Extract as a Promising Product Targeting the Fungal Plasma Membrane and Cell Wall
Authors: Teixeira Ana , Sánchez-Hernández Eva , Noversa João , Cunha Ana , Cortez Isabel , Marques Guilhermina , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Oliveira Rui
Published: January 2023

The harmful effect of synthetic fungicides on the environment and the development of resistance by fungi raises concerns about their security and future efficacy. In this work, we investigated plant by-products with the antifungal activity that could be safe alternatives to conventional fungicides. The in vitro antifungal potential of plant by-product extracts showed that garlic peel extract (GPE) was the most effective against several phytopathogenic fungi. Accordingly, in ex situ assays with apples, GPE significantly reduced the lesion size caused by subepidermal inoculation with Colletotrichum acutatum spores. In addition, Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant strains affected in ergosterol synthesis showed higher resistance to GPE than the parental strain, indicating that the extract might target an intermediate of this pathway. Moreover, GPE affects the cell wall, given that bck1 and mkk1/mkk2 mutants were less able to cope with the stress because of the impairment of the remodeling mechanisms. Regarding the apoptosis-deficient mutant yca1, sensitivity was similar to that of the parental strain, suggesting that the extract does not induce apoptosis. A diverse group of sulfur compounds was identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Our findings contribute to the elucidation of the antifungal mechanism of GPE and highlight its potential as an alternative biofungicide in agriculture.
Somatic Embryogenesis and Flow Cytometric Assessment of Nuclear Genetic Stability for Sansevieria spp.: An Approach for In Vitro Regeneration of Ornamental Plants
Authors: Catalano Caterina , Carra Angela , Carimi Francesco , Motisi Antonio , Sajeva Maurizio , Butler Alan , Lucretti Sergio , Giorgi Debora , Farina Anna , Abbate Loredana
Published: January 2023

Sansevieria Thunb. species are traditionally known as succulent ornamental plants worldwide. They are also cultivated for medicinal, fodder, soil conservation and fiber uses, and for their capacity to reduce environmental pollution. Sansevieria sexual propagation is limited by the lack of viable seeds, and reproduction is largely made via vegetative propagation by suckers or cuttings. For these reasons, genetic improvement by conventional breeding is limited. To overcome this problem and to address the increasing demand from customers for novel Sansevieria varieties, many commercial companies regularly use in vitro propagation, as is the case in the breeding process of several ornamental plants. In this paper, for the first time, we report a procedure for in vitro somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration starting from three flower explants for seven different Sansevieria genotypes. Regeneration was attempted using stigmas/styles, anther/filament, and ovary which were cultured on a Murashige and Skoog solidified medium under three different plant growth regulator combinations. A good regeneration rate was obtained with all genotypes used under all culture conditions tested from every explant type, with percentages ranging from 0 to 73.3%. “Genetic stability” assessment of regenerated plants in respect to their mother plants was verified through flow cytometry analysis showing a high degree of uniformity, with only S. parva exhibiting a different level of DNA fluorescence among in vitro regenerated plants. This is an interesting achievement in the aim to produce true-to-type plants and new variants with desirable characteristics, both of which are desired features in ornamentals improvement.
Effects of Ambient Temperature and Humidity on Natural Deposition Characteristics of Airborne Biomass Particles
Authors: Yuan Ye , Li Shuo , Chen Tiancong , Ren Jianlin
Published: January 2023

In the production process of biomass energy with crop straw as the raw material, the indoor dust environment created by smashed plant fiber can affect the health of workers and lead to the risk of fire and explosions. The physical properties of biomass vary with the ambient air conditions, resulting in different deposition processes for airborne biomass particles. In this study, the deposition of biomass particles in different environments in an experimental chamber was examined by independently controlling the internal temperature and relative humidity. The results show that in the ambient temperature range of 20~40 °C and at a relative humidity of 25~65%, the water absorption rates of the biomass particles were 15.4~24.7%. The deposition rates of the airborne biomass particles with different sizes were 0.9~2.9 h−1, which positively correlated with the particle sizes in the same ambient conditions. The increase in ambient temperature and relative humidity promoted the deposition of biomass particles with diameters over 0.5 μm. For the particles with diameters below 0.5 μm, the deposition rates were nonlinearly related to the ambient temperature and relative humidity and were greater at lower temperatures. The significance levels of the factors influencing the particle deposition were particle size > ambient temperature > ambient relative humidity. For the biomass particles below 0.5 μm, the influence of the relative humidity on the deposition was much weaker than that of the temperature.
Effectiveness of Social Inclusion Interventions for Anxiety and Depression among Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hunt Xanthe , Shakespeare Tom , Vilyte Gabriele , Melendez-Torres G. J. , Henry Junita , Bradshaw Melissa , Naidoo Selvan , Mbuyamba Rachel , Aljassem Shahd , Suubi Esta , Aljasem Nawar , Makhetha Moroesi , Bantjes Jason
Published: January 2023

Background: Adolescents who are socially excluded are at increased risk of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Promoting social inclusion could be an effective strategy for preventing and treating adolescent depression and anxiety. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of intervention studies which aimed to prevent or treat adolescent depression and/or anxiety by promoting social inclusion. Throughout the review we engaged a youth advisory group of 13 young people (aged 21–24) from Uganda, Turkey, Syria, South Africa, and Egypt. Results: We identified 12 studies relevant to our review. The interventions tested use a range of different strategies to increase social inclusion and reduce depression and anxiety, including social skills training, psychoeducation, teaching life skills training, and cash transfers. Pooled standardised mean differences (SMDs) based on random-effects models showed medium-to-large benefits of interventions on improving depression and anxiety symptoms (n = 8; SMD = −0.62; 95% CI, −1.23 to −0.01, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although there are not many studies, those which have been done show promising results that strongly suggest that social inclusion could be an important component of programmes to promote adolescent mental health.
Beta-Lactam Antibiotic Resistance Genes in the Microbiome of the Public Transport System of Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Hernández-Alomía Fernanda , Bastidas-Caldes Carlos , Ballesteros Isabel , Tenea Gabriela N. , Jarrín-V. Pablo , Molina C. Alfonso , Castillejo Pablo
Published: January 2023

Multidrug-resistant bacteria present resistance mechanisms against β-lactam antibiotics, such as Extended-Spectrum Beta-lactamases (ESBL) and Metallo-β-lactamases enzymes (MBLs) which are operon encoded in Gram-negative species. Likewise, Gram-positive bacteria have evolved other mechanisms through mec genes, which encode modified penicillin-binding proteins (PBP2). This study aimed to determine the presence and spread of β-lactam antibiotic resistance genes and the microbiome circulating in Quito’s Public Transport (QTP). A total of 29 station turnstiles were swabbed to extract the surface environmental DNA. PCRs were performed to detect the presence of 13 antibiotic resistance genes and to identify and to amplify 16S rDNA for barcoding, followed by clone analysis, Sanger sequencing, and BLAST search. ESBL genes blaTEM-1 and blaCTX-M-1 and MBL genes blaOXA-181 and mecA were detected along QPT stations, blaTEM being the most widely spread. Two subvariants were found for blaTEM-1, blaCTX-M-1, and blaOXA-181. Almost half of the circulating bacteria found at QPT stations were common human microbiota species, including those classified by the WHO as pathogens of critical and high-priority surveillance. β-lactam antibiotic resistance genes are prevalent throughout QPT. This is the first report of blaOXA-181 in environmental samples in Ecuador. Moreover, we detected a new putative variant of this gene. Some commensal coagulase-negative bacteria may have a role as mecA resistance reservoirs.
Sensitization of Guinea Pig Skin to Imported Fire Ant Alkaloids and Establishment of an Inflammatory Model
Authors: Liu Yueze , Huang Jun , Zhang Juan , Xu Yipeng , Li Xiaowei , Lu Yaobin
Published: January 2023

Imported fire ants (IFAs), Solenopsis invicta, release their venom through multiple stings that induce inflammation, allergies, shock, and even death. Although IFA venom protein sensitization and related subcutaneous immunotherapy have been studied, few studies have examined the potential toxicity or pathogenicity of alkaloids, the main substances in IFA venom. Here, IFA alkaloids were identified and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry; we further determined an appropriate extraction method and its effectiveness for extracting high-purity alkaloids through comparative analysis and guinea pig skin sensitivity tests. The alkaloids released from the IFA abdomen included those present in the head and thorax, and the alkaloids in the abdomen accounted for the highest proportion of the total extract. The abdominal extirpation method yielded alkaloids with a purity above 97%, and the skin irritation response score and histopathological diagnosis suggest that intradermal injection of the extracted alkaloids produced symptoms effectively simulating those of IFA stings. The successful establishment of an inflammatory model in guinea pigs stung by IFAs provides a basis for further research on the mechanism of inflammatory diseases caused by IFAs.
Influence of Social Media Uses and Gratifications on Family Health among U.S. Parents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Olpin Eliza , Hanson Carl L. , Crandall AliceAnn
Published: January 2023

Some research suggests that parents on social media have access to greater social support and health information. However, evidence also connects parental social media use to negative outcomes including increased parental stress, depression, and distraction. Using the uses and gratification theory, this study goes beyond measures of parents’ individual mental health and explores social media use and its association with family well-being. Family health outcomes were predicted to vary with parents’ use and gratifications of social media, with parents who use social media primarily for information and connection scoring higher on family health and parents who used social media for entertainment scoring worse on family health. The sample included 482 heterosexual married or cohabiting partners recruited through a Qualtrics panel. All participants were parents of children ages of 3–13, with mothers and fathers each completing the survey. Findings indicated that fathers’ use of social media for entertainment and connecting with family and friends was associated with better family well-being and health resources (p < 0.01). However, mothers’ use of social media did not have a statistically meaningful relationship with family health variables. There was no evidence that parental social media use was associated with negative family health outcomes. Longitudinal data is needed to determine the temporal relationship between social media use and family health. Public health professionals interested in improving family health may consider how to better reach fathers on social media to increase health resources.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Awareness of New Jersey Public High School Students about Concepts of Climate Change, including Environmental Justice
Authors: Shendell Derek G. , Black Lily F. , Way Yvette , Aggarwal Juhi , Campbell Maryanne L. F. , Nguyen Kimberly T.
Published: January 2023

Increasing acknowledgement of climate change (CC) has encouraged various responses, such as education standard mandates. In 2021, New Jersey (NJ) became the first U.S. state to require K–12 CC education across subjects, effective fall 2022. This necessitated introductory science courses on CC to support high school (HS) curricula. Thus, NJ Safe Schools Program (NJSS) created a new course titled, “Introduction to HS Students to CC, Sustainability, and Environmental Justice (EJ).” Given that the COVID-19 pandemic continues (2020–2023 school years) and vaccination coverage varies, this course was developed and approved in an asynchronous online format. Its five modules cover environmental science, CC, natural disasters and extreme weather events, sustainability, including energy conservation and efficiency definitions, and EJ. A 20-question survey included at the end, modified/adapted from a larger nationwide U.S. Student Conservation Association (SCA) survey 2019–2020, examined the perspectives of HS students concerning CC. Selected volunteer NJ HS enlisted students (n = 82/128 finished) to pilot this course February–April 2022. Results such as average scores ≥90% suggested success regarding initial knowledge and awareness gained; for individual modules, two knowledge checks >80% and three knowledge checks >90%. The SCA survey results, overall and by region in NJ, highlighted how most students felt about CC and extreme weather events, plus issues such as EJ. This NJSS introductory course opened in July 2022 for NJ public county secondary school districts and comprehensive HS with approved career-technical education programs, and potentially elsewhere.
Younger Women with Lipedema, Their Experiences with Healthcare Providers, and the Importance of Social Support and Belonging: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Christoffersen Vilde , Tennfjord Merete Kolberg
Published: January 2023

Lipedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder affecting approximately 11% of women worldwide. The illness is often misdiagnosed as obesity, and because of this, women often struggle in meetings with healthcare providers. Few studies have assessed these encounters of younger women with lipedema. The aims of this qualitative study were to explore women’s experiences in meetings with healthcare providers and the importance of social support and belonging, with a focus on younger women. Fifteen women with lipedema between the ages of 21 and 47 years (mean age 36.2 years) were interviewed. The results indicated that women felt stigmatized by healthcare providers and that younger women in their 20s and early 30s struggled more often than women of higher age when receiving their diagnosis. The feeling of shame and stigma were also dependent on the woman’s resources in handling the illness. The younger women reported that their self-confidence and romantic relationships were challenging. Social support and the feeling of belonging through romantic relationships or support groups were important resources for managing the illness. Highlighting the experiences of women may aid in increasing recognition and knowledge of lipedema. This in turn may reduce the stigma and lead to equitable healthcare services.
Evaluation of Parabens and Bisphenol A Concentration Levels in Wild Bat Guano Samples
Authors: Gonkowski Slawomir , Martín Julia , Aparicio Irene , Santos Juan Luis , Alonso Esteban , Rytel Liliana
Published: January 2023

Parabens and bisphenol A are synthetic compounds found in many everyday objects, including bottles, food containers, personal care products, cosmetics and medicines. These substances may penetrate the environment and living organisms, on which they have a negative impact. Till now, numerous studies have described parabens and BPA in humans, but knowledge about terrestrial wild mammals’ exposure to these compounds is very limited. Therefore, during this study, the most common concentration levels of BPA and parabens were selected (such as methyl paraben—MeP, ethyl paraben—EtP, propyl paraben—PrP and butyl paraben—BuP) and analyzed in guano samples collected in summer (nursery) colonies of greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis) using liquid chromatography with the tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method. MeP has been found in all guano samples and its median concentration levels amounted to 39.6 ng/g. Other parabens were present in smaller number of samples (from 5% for BuP to 62.5% for EtP) and in lower concentrations. Median concentration levels of these substances achieved 0.95 ng/g, 1.45 ng/g and 15.56 ng/g for EtP, PrP and BuP, respectively. BPA concentration levels did not exceed the method quantification limit (5 ng/g dw) in any sample. The present study has shown that wild bats are exposed to parabens and BPA, and guano samples are a suitable matrix for studies on wild animal exposure to these substances.
New Topical Therapy for Provoked Vestibulodynia: Improvement of Psychological and Sexual Well-Being
Authors: De Seta Francesco , Ianniello Patrizia , Carlucci Stefania , Nappi Luigi , Sorrentino Felice , Stabile Guglielmo
Published: January 2023

Vulvodynia is a vulvar discomfort that occurs in the absence of any specific, clinically identifiable disorder. Few therapies have shown to be effective for the treatment of vulvodynia. In our recently published study, we tested a drug-free gel in women affected by vulvar vestibulitis. It is a cosmetic gel which acts locally without any metabolic, pharmacological or immunological effect. In order to further promote the validity of this new product, in this manuscript we analyzed the results obtained from the administration of four questionnaires in the same two groups of women affected by PVD and treated with a placebo and the new product. The questionnaires used: Female Sexual Function Index Scoring (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and health-related quality of life measured by SF-36 (SF-36). The results obtained by this current analysis showed that the new gel has also proven benefits on women’s quality of life and sexual function, including improvements in arousal, desire, orgasm and satisfaction.
The Telomere-Telomerase System Is Detrimental to Health at High-Altitude
Authors: Pasha Qadar , Rain Manjari , Tasnim Sana , Kanipakam Hema , Thinlas Tashi , Mohammad Ghulam
Published: January 2023

The hypobaric-hypoxia environment at high-altitude (HA, >2500 m) may influence DNA damage due to the production of reactive molecular species and high UV radiation. The telomere system, vital to chromosomal integrity and cellular viability, is prone to oxidative damages contributing to the severity of high-altitude disorders such as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). However, at the same time, it is suggested to sustain physical performance. This case-control study, comprising 210 HAPE-free (HAPE-f) sojourners, 183 HAPE-patients (HAPE-p) and 200 healthy highland natives (HLs) residing at ~3500 m, investigated telomere length, telomerase activity, and oxidative stress biomarkers. Fluidigm SNP genotyping screened 65 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 11 telomere-maintaining genes. Significance was attained at p ≤ 0.05 after adjusting for confounders and correction for multiple comparisons. Shorter telomere length, decreased telomerase activity and increased oxidative stress were observed in HAPE patients; contrarily, longer telomere length and elevated telomerase activity were observed in healthy HA natives compared to HAPE-f. Four SNPs and three haplotypes are associated with HAPE, whereas eight SNPs and nine haplotypes are associated with HA adaptation. Various gene-gene interactions and correlations between/among clinical parameters and biomarkers suggested the presence of a complex interplay underlining HAPE and HA adaptation physiology. A distinctive contribution of the telomere-telomerase system contributing to HA physiology is evident in this study. A normal telomere system may be advantageous in endurance training.
Celebrities and Medical Awareness—The Case of Celine Dion and Stiff-Person Syndrome
Authors: Elsalti Abdulrahman , Darkhabani Mohammad , Alrifaai Mohamad Aosama , Mahroum Naim
Published: January 2023

The positive role of celebrities in spreading important medical information and contributing to increasing public awareness regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of various medical conditions cannot be overemphasized. Interestingly and importantly at the same time, this impact is not related to the rarity of the disease, as very rare diseases are looked up by the public due to the fact that a celebrity suffers from this disorder. Therefore, if taken seriously and used to address the public in regard to critical medical conditions, such as screening for cancer or the importance of vaccines in fighting infections, celebrities could have a huge impact in this field. As previously shown in the medical literature, the recent announcement of the famous Canadian singer Celine Dion concerning her newly diagnosed stiff-person syndrome has influenced the public interest regarding the syndrome which manifested as an increased search volume related to the disorder as seen in Google Trends. In brief, in this short communication we aimed to address the phenomenon of celebrities’ impact on public apprehension, revise the syndrome for the medical community, and emphasize taking advantage of such involvement of celebrities for improving the spread of highly important medical information for the public.